RMP May 2015 by RM Publishing

MAY 2015 • RMPARENT.COM

MAKE IT a picnic

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MAY 2015

Departments

Special Sections

PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Free-ranging kids—Turn ‘em loose and see what happens

SUMMERTIME

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

WOMEN’S HEALTH . . . . . . . . 8 It’s reading time—make a break for you and your kids

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Make it a picnic—be creative when heading out for mealtime adventure

ADVERTISING S UPPLEMENT

Mother’s Day expectations—just chill and enjoy the gift of family Northern Colorado is a healthy place to live— access to affordable healthcare and enabling a healthy lifestyle are key

Shop the local favorites—Farmers’ Markets in northern Colorado produce for you

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 6

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

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

Fact: girls hate their mothers—daughters are predestined to be hard on their mothers

School District News

BOUNTY:

LOCAL

FARMERS LOOK TO THE

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Discover the bounty that awaits you in our area in this extensive local food and farm guide.

SCHOOL

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THINKING LIKE A FOODSHED

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WARM WEATHER WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS

LOCAL LOVING CHEFS

GROWING SEASON 2015

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . 1 6

MAY 2015 • RMPARENT .COM

GROWING SEASON 2015

GIVE ME A BREAK . . . . . . . 12 COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14

Summertime

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Features 18 STRENGTHEN YOUR ATTACHMENT

Maybe you believe breastfeeding is going to be natural and easy. Or maybe you are feeling nervous to give it a try. Likely you are right in the middle, hopeful that it will work, but practical about possible setbacks. That’s a good place to be...open to asking for help and accepting the joys and challenges.

Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 New high school named, TSD hires new CFO, Mountain View coach receives national award, Community Connections hosts Employer Appreciation Breakfast

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Gardens and nature centers enrich schools, students turn waste into energy

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 GAP principal honored by United Way, District 6 student named Boettcher scholar, students named Daniels Scholars, district seeks sponsors for kickoff event

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

20 ON THE LOOSE The debate is heating up about free-range kids and parenting. It’s even become a movement for parents who want their kids to have freedom to play and explore the world on their own. Supporters say it’s how kids learn coping and independent thinking skills and that the world has actually become a safer place. ABOUT THE COVER: Cam, 6, loves sports, video games, soccer and playing with his siblings. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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perspective Free-ranging kids

Turn ‘em loose and see what happens

ne of my favorite books as a teenager was called On the Loose by Renny and Terry Russell. It was an odd little book published by the Sierra Club in 1966 about being outdoors with no schedule or agenda...just out there taking it all in and figuring yourself out, whatever that might mean. It had a tragedy section too about the destruction that can happen when we treat the natural world as a commodity or are indifferent to it. I was raised in an On-the-Loose fashion. We were a camping family and most weekends in the summer found us parked near a lake or river. My brother and I headed out fishing or exploring early every morning and our parents had no idea where we were or what we were up to. They knew we’d show up to be fed from time to time or with a stringer of fish for Dad to clean and Mom to cook. At home, it was much the same. On weekends and in the summer, we’d head out in morning for the day’s adventure, exploring the creek, getting a game of baseball together, riding bikes around, whatever. And that was pretty typical kids stuff. Fast forward many years and things have changed. We tend to organize our kids’ time and demand an update of what they’re doing. Just being out exploring doesn’t cut it any more. Either we’re fearful they might get hurt or abducted or sun burnt, or we think they could be using their time “more productively.” In my way of thinking, learning to be a good human being seems to be about the most productive way kids can spend their time. And lots of things feed into this...sports teams help players learn about responsibility to others and doing your best, art and performance and writing help kids to learn to express themselves and on and on. But there’s something about kids ranging free that teaches without teaching. They learn independence, how to form natural groups, how to just relax, how to keep from needing to be entertained all the time and more. Of course, I’m not suggesting that you throw your 5-year-old out on the street and say, “Range freely, my little one.” That would be silly. But over time we can give kids more and more leash as they learn about the world. So that when it is time to leave the proverbial nest, they’ve already experienced a little air under their wings (if I can push the already mixed metaphor) and they’re less likely to crash or fly into the waiting claws of an owl, unless they are owls and then that might work out. I saw a refrigerator magnet that said, “Eat more organic food...or as your parents called it: food.” I could think of a related phrase that might go something like this: “Range freely through your neighborhood...or as your parents called it: go play.” Be sure to check out Kim Sharpe’s story about the free-range kid debate in this issue along with all the other great stuff ! Thanks for reading, Scott 6

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MAY 2015 • Volume 19, Issue 12 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CALENDAR EDITOR Kim Sharpe calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt Sharon Klahn, Kyle Moyer COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lea Hanson, Hillary Mizia, Lynn Nichols, Kim Sharpe ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80521 Voice 221-9210 Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not consitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2015 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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women’s health

It’s reading time

Make a break...for you and your kids LY NN U. NICHOLS

fter your kids deliver breakfast in bed, roll over and enjoy another treat on Mother’s Day. Read a really good book, without interruption for at least an hour or two. When was the last time you let yourself indulge in a novel you couldn’t put down? If you love to read, you’ve got that inner urge all of the time to escape into a good story—and you feel lost when you don’t have your next good book waiting on your bedside table or loaded onto your tablet. Well, good news. Reading season is nearly here! Choose books for your summer vacation or for those stolen moments as you wait for your kids to finish their music lessons or during visits to the local pool. If you are one of those amazing moms who get your kids to bed by 8pm every night, better yet. You’ve got some time to curl up in bed and read—at least until sleep overtakes. Why not make a new house rule and habit? Call it reading time. For 15 minutes (for preschoolers) or a half hour (for elementary-aged kids) it’s reading time. This is outside the usual bedtime reading time, and it’s not interactive. Reading time means everyone goes to their favorite reading spot—the porch swing or the backyard hammock, the couch, the pile of pillows on the floor—and they settle in. Rules include no talking, no getting up to answer the phone, no potty breaks within reason. Explain that our minds need rest just like our bodies, and focusing on one thing—a book— lets them rest. If the kids don’t want to participate, do it alone. It’s okay to rely on movies or devices as babysitters for short periods. Taking a break from the fray lets you recharge. You know it’s true. Even 15 minutes can change your 8

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mood so value yourself enough—and honor yourself as a mother—by taking time for yourself. If reading a book isn’t your thing, then find your own activity to help you relax and escape. Put on headphones and listen to your favorite artist as you lounge on a chair in the sun. Pet the dog. Admire your

flowers that are blooming. It doesn’t matter. What matters is the break and that you allow yourself to take it. On Mother’s Day, remind yourself of all the reasons why you’re a great mom. Then give yourself a treat—a new commitment to a regular, quiet retreat.

5 Good Reads on Motherhood

To revel in what it means to be a mom, pack one of these books in your pool bag this summer. 1. Mom Candy, by Jena Pincott A collection of 1,000 inspirational, poignant and funny insights on motherhood from modern voices. Great gift book for mom at any stage. 2. What My Mother Gave Me, by Elizabeth Benedict Short essays from bestselling writers on nuggets of wisdom and touchstones they received from their mothers. Includes the likes of Joyce Carol Oates, Lisa See and Martha McPhee. 3. Motherhood Realized: An Inspiring Anthology for the Hardest Job You’ll Ever Love, by Power of Moms A collection of posts that will leave you inspired to be the best mom you can be and

happy with the mom that you are. Also by this group: Deliberate Motherhood: 12 Key Powers of Peace, Purpose, Order & Joy. 4. Operating Instructions: A Journal of My Son’s First Year, by Anne Lamott A hilarious, honest look at the first year of your baby’s life. A memoir not to be missed. 5. Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids, by Kim John Payne Sometimes the key to being a great mom is to do less. If you are feeling like you are making yourself crazy running around giving your kids experiences, this is your next read.

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family activities

Make it a picnic

Be creative when heading out for a mealtime adventure HILLARY MIZIA

t really doesn’t matter what the weather holds, my six-year-old daughter is always asking for a picnic. From the middle of winter, to the blustery spring or rainy fall day, to the sunshine filled summer, she is always hopeful we will pack up some sandwiches and fruit and head out for a mealtime adventure. Her enthusiasm for this generally warm weather pasttime has led to some creative picnic scenarios, from the “grass” of our living room rug to the perfect nook by the river. Whether your family shares my daughter’s affinity for checkered blanket dining or simply enjoys the occasional outing, here are three ideas to help make your next meal a picnic. BASKET NOT REQUIRED Allow your children to fill up containers with their favorite foods, opting for finger foods and items that don’t require staying hot or cold. Maintain a stash of reusable, lightweight plates and flatware on a shelf everyone can reach. Along with a blanket designated as your go-to picnic ground cover, your family can easily help fill your picnic backpack, basket, wagon, bike trailer or whatever carrier you are using. If you’re looking to purchase some sturdy kitchen items to serve as picnic ware, be sure to look locally first at places like the Fort Collins Food Co-op, Crunchy Grocer in Loveland, and Colorado company Natural Grocers. Still can’t find what you want? Check out the website A Mighty Nest, where 15 percent of your purchase can be donated to a school of your choosing. STAY CLOSE TO HOME Even though I should be used to it by now, I still find myself feeling overwhelmed when I’m asked, yet again, to go for a picnic. That’s when I remember that we don’t have to travel very far for this delightful dining experience. In fact, our front yard has served as the perfect 10

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picnic spot more times than I can count. This is especially handy if the weather looks iffy and little minds and hearts are not to be swayed. When we have a front yard or driveway picnic, I will often take it up a notch and become the server who brings my children courses of food. This is fun, and not only cracks up the kids, but gets me preparing more creative foods than I might have otherwise. If your yard is not an option, then choosing one of the local parks is a great way to keep the journey short. In Fort Collins alone there are over 40 parks, including neighborhood and the ever-fun “pocket” parks. Pocket parks can be delightful to discover and are often located within walking distance to any given neighborhood. One such park we like to frequent is Avery Park off of Taft Hill. Between Greeley, Loveland, and Fort Collins, there are over 100 parks and miles and miles of bike trails to help you get there safely. (www.fcgov.com/parks/, http://greeleygov.com/activities/parks, www.ci.loveland.co.us)

GO EXPLORING Sometimes a picnic can be a great way to rally the family behind visiting some place new. Parks are fun, with playgrounds and picnic tables, but sometimes really getting out can make the picnic even better. The Front Range is filled with natural areas that provide fodder for such adventures. The Poudre Canyon is full of places to explore, and Gateway Natural Area is a picnicking paradise. Soapstone Prairie is 25 miles north of Fort Collins, almost to Wyoming, and provides trails to hike, beautiful grasslands to explore, and cultural resources. Promontory Point Park in Greeley has ponds, a small waterfall, trails, and a wonderfully expansive feel. RamsayShockey Open Space in Loveland is less popular than Devil’s Backbone and provides lots of family-friendly hiking trails. And with the myriad bike trails connecting city dwellers to places quiet and serene, it’s always fun to hop on the nearest bike trail and see what special place your family can find.

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give me a break

Mother’s Day expectations Just chill and enjoy the gift of family

KIM SHARPE

ave you ever had a mother-ofa-day? That’s typically how Mother’s Day feels to me. You might think Mother’s Day is just another one of those “Hallmark” holidays meant to bolster the greeting card businesses’ bottom line. While it probably does that, Mother’s Day actually has some interesting historical roots. Spring celebrations honoring maternal goddesses date back to the Ancient Greeks. Eventually, the fourth Sunday of Lent was set aside by Christians to honor Mary, the mother of Jesus. In the 1600s, the English expanded that celebration to include all mothers and called it “Mothering Day.” It became a popular celebration in the U.S. in the late 1800s, going through a variety of iterations before becoming the holiday we recognize today. Regardless of its roots—or perhaps because of them—I want to make sure my mother and motherin-law feel honored and appreciated

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on Mother’s Day, so I focus a lot of energy on making sure they have a meal they’ll enjoy and a beautiful hanging basket of flowers, which has come to be the expected gift. I say “expected” because one year I strayed from that tradition and gave them something other than flowers, thinking they might be bored with that offering. I can’t remember the alternate gift choices, but I do remember what a mistake it was, because my well-meaning gifts were met with both moms asking, “Where are our flowers?” I felt like a complete failure for letting them down. On Mother’s Day, I also focus a lot of energy to make sure my house and yard are presentable and as inviting as possible. What really happens is that I get all worked up into a lather because things aren’t perfect enough. My mood sours and by the time our moms arrive, I’m in a pretty dismal state of mind. Now for the flip side of Mother’s Day. I have three amazing sons who

love to surprise me with thoughtful actions and gifts. Despite the tizzy I work myself into trying to make sure their grandmothers feel loved, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed by my boys’ efforts to make sure I feel loved, too. I usually get some combination of flowers and gifts related to outdoor pursuits, like fenders for my road bike, which allow me to use her for commuting or new running socks. Most of the fun comes from seeing what they’ll come up with next. Since the sentiment of this column is “Give Me a Break,” I’m going to do my best to give myself one this year. I’m going to try to relax the expectations I set for myself. I’m going to try to “chillax,” as my sons would say, and remember that my mom and motherin-law would probably enjoy the gift of hanging out with a more calm me rather than having a “perfect” meal or any material item I could give them. It also would be a welcome relief for my husband and sons, I’m sure.

H H HH H H H H H H H H H H HH H H H HHH H H H H H H H HH HH H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH H H HH H H HH H H H H H H H H H HH H H H HWITH H HH H HH H H H H H H H H THE H H H H H H H H H H H HH H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH H HH H H H H H H HH H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH H HH H H H H H H HH H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH H HH HH H H H H H H H H H H H H H HHH HHH H H H H HH HH HH H H HHH HHHH H HH HH H H H H HH HH HHHH HH HH HHH HHHHHH H HH HHH HHH H HH H H H H NOW RECRUITING GIRLS AGES 7-17

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community news

Northern Colorado a healthy place to live Access to affordable healthcare and enabling a healthy lifestyle key KIM SHARPE

ell, we did it again. Fort Collins ranked high on one of those lists designating it as a great place to live. At the same time, there are reports that rabies is present among Weld County’s skunk population and it could have implications for domestic animals and people, too. As summer heats up, we’re reminded to be prepared for seasonal emergencies, such as wild fires and floods. The floods of 2013 are still on the minds of many northern Coloradans. You only have to drive up the Big Thompson Canyon to remember the devastation that rained down on us not that long ago. If you have memories to share, the Loveland Public Library and Loveland Museum/Gallery would like to hear from you. At the top of the canyon, you can check out the new Estes Park Events Center intended as a year-round community gathering space. And at the end of the day, we’re all reminded to stop and smell the flowers; Larimer County offers a guide to help you do just that. HEALTHY FORT COLLINS There are two parts to every healthy city. The first is access to quality, affordable healthcare. The second is promoting and enabling a healthy lifestyle for its residents through infrastructure and amenities. With this in mind, Livability.com ranked Fort Collins #9 on its list of the Top 10 Healthiest City in the U.S. for 2015. Livability.com editors looked at data compiled by the County Healthcare Rankings, as well as spending data from Esri to find places with quality and affordable healthcare. They analyzed several measures of healthy communities, such as the adult obesity rate, the percent of residents with access to healthy food and other stats. Also factored in were the number of hospitals, ratio of doctors to residents and more. In addition, its editors considered city infrastructure that promotes healthy living, 14

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like access to farmers’ markets and parks, walkability, man-made amenities like golf courses, as well as natural amenities. Additionally factored in was data from the EPA about the environmental components of a healthy city such as clean air and water. “The link between cities and health is increasingly clear,” says Livability Editor Matt Carmichael. “It’s not enough to have a great hospital to take care of you when you’re sick. The city itself can help you lead a healthier life.” Fort Collins’ amazing recreational opportunities, highly active residents, low healthcare costs and strong social support services make it one of the healthiest cities

in the country. Majestic mountains and crystal clear lakes surrounding the city create ideal exercise conditions for residents, helping keep the obesity rate below 19 percent. Throughout the year, five farmers markets in and around Fort Collins give people access to fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as beef and other meats. Home to several natural areas with hiking trails, many residents are able to get to work or run errands on foot. The other Top 10 Healthiest Cities in order from #1 through #10 are: Minneapolis, MN; Cambridge, MA;

Madison, WI; Miami, FL; Bridgeport, CT; Arlington, VA; Santa Ana, CA; Honolulu, HI; and Yonkers, NY. FLOOD US WITH MEMORIES The Loveland Public Library and Loveland Museum/Gallery are collaborating to collect and record objects and memories from the devastating flood of 2013. The Loveland Public Library is focusing their oral history project on those who experienced the flood and those who were involved with the response and recovery. The Loveland Museum/Gallery is collecting photographs and objects related

to the flood to preserve in the permanent historic collection. If you are interested in participating in the oral history project please contact Jay Boyle at jay.boyle@ cityofloveland.org. If you are interested in making a donation to the Loveland Museum, please contact Jennifer Cousino at jennifer.cousino@cityofloveland.org. ESTES PARK EVENTS COMPLEX OPENS MAY 8 A grand opening celebration for the Estes Park Events Complex will take place Friday, May 8 from 6-9pm at the Estes Park

Event Center, 1125 Rooftop Way. The event is free and open to all ages. With a theme of “Opening the Doors to All Seasons,” the gathering will celebrate year-round activities and opportunities available in Estes Park and at the new facility. The event also will celebrate history-making Estes Park resident and rock climber Tommy Caldwell. Caldwell will present a slide show about his recent record-breaking experience on the Dawn Wall of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at approximately 7pm. The celebration will feature activities for kids and adults including a 24-foot climbing wall, fishing pond with live trout, performances from Aerial Cirque Over Denver, stunts from the Freestyle and BIG AIR Stunt Team and much more. Complimentary appetizers that evoke the flavors of all four seasons and a cash bar will be available. Commemorative prizes will be given away throughout the evening. Guests are encouraged to wear their best mountain attire in celebration of the Estes Park lifestyle. For more than 30 years, the Town has planned and undertaken improvements to the Fairgrounds at Stanley Park for the purpose of attracting more people to Estes Park and creating a userfriendly gathering place for the community. The Estes Park Events Complex is the largest single General Fund capital investment in community infrastructure ever made by the Town. With a combined square footage of 52,184 and a capacity of 3,700 people, the Event Center and Pavilion can accommodate year-round trade shows, conferences, dances, large dinners, and more. Additional meeting spaces in these facilities include The Porch and Grand Lobby at the Pavilion and the VIP View Meeting Room, Executive Board Room and Silo Meeting Room at the Event Center. Visit www.estesparkeventscomplex.com. For more information, contact the Events office at 970-586-6104 or visit www.estes.org/events and www. visitestespark.com.

A GUIDE TO LOCAL WILDFLOWERS Just in time for wildflower season, Wildflowers and Other Plants of the Larimer County Foothills Region is now available. This conveniently sized field guide (4” x 6”) is geared toward the amateur and expert alike. Highlights include over 100 species of local wildflowers, grasses and woody plants, comparison pages of similar species and genus pages. Guides are available for purchase at the Larimer County Natural Resources Administrative Offices, 1800 S. County Rd. 31, Loveland. Visit www. larimer.org/ naturalresources/contact.htm for office hours and directions. For more information, contact Heather Young at (970) 619-4489 or hyoung@larimer.org. DON’T GET SKUNKED Five skunks recently captured in Erie, Evans, Longmont, Mead and Keenesburg, tested positive for rabies. One skunk was found on Main Street in downtown Mead; another within the city limits of Evans. Rabies can infect many wild animals, including foxes, raccoons, coyotes and bats. Health officials stress that all domestic animals such as cats, dogs, horses and livestock should be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Unvaccinated horses and bison have contracted rabies in northern Colorado. Humans can contract rabies through animal bites. A feral cat bit a Platteville man in late 2013. “We are warning people to not touch or go near wild animals,” says Cheryl Darnell, Weld County Health Department laboratory manager. “It’s also vital to vaccinate pets, such as dogs, cats and horses. This year we are seeing more cases of rabies in residential areas. The risk of human exposure to rabies increases when pets and domestic animals

are not properly vaccinated. Obviously, if you are in direct contact with a rabid animal, such as a raccoon or bat, your risk is extremely high.” Signs of rabies include increases in saliva and drooling, nocturnal animals seen out during the daytime, and slow or difficult movement. Other signs may be aggressive behavior, such as a skunk attacking a dog. Rabies is a disease caused by a virus that affects the nervous system. Rabies causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, and is nearly always fatal. It is transmitted in saliva through the bite of an infected animal. The virus also can be transmitted in saliva to an open cut, scratch or wound. If a person suspects they have been exposed to rabies, they should contact their medical provider immediately. Effective vaccination treatment is available to prevent rabies if started before symptoms appear. For an interactive map of identified rabies in Weld County, visit: www. co.weld.co.us/Departments/Health Environment/RabiesSurveillance.html

Rules for preventing rabies • D o not feed, touch or handle wild animals, and be cautious of stray dogs and cats • Have dogs, cats, horses and livestock vaccinated regularly by a licensed veterinarian • S pay or neuter pets to reduce the number of unwanted or stray animals • D o not feed wild animals or keep pet food outside, which may attract wild animals • Be prepared Larimer County emergency management agencies released an emergency preparedness guide last fall to provide updated information to the public regarding existing hazards, seasonal considerations and basic preparedness strategies. The guide is now available online in both English and Spanish to ensure as many county residents are served by it as possible. Download the guides at www.larimer. org/emergency to locate the guide. Print versions in both languages also are available by contacting Lori Hodges at 970498-7147.

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healthy living

Shop the local favorites

Farmers’ Markets in northern Colorado produce for you LEA HANSON

he anticipation of summer brings excitement for many of our favorite outdoor activities and pastimes. It also brings us the season for farmers’ markets. In northern Colorado, visiting our favorite farmers’ market is a fun weekly event for the whole family and one to which we look forward. It is an opportunity to (most often) be outside, congregate with friends, and interact with community members. In addition to these communal advantages, there are numerous benefits to farmers’ markets: • Instead of giving your money to large corporations, you’re supporting local farmers and small business owners. These local farmers and small business owners then put the money back into the local economy. • It’s healthier and more sustainable to eat food that is locally grown. Eating food grown in the local area cuts down on the money, energy, and resources needed to ship the food to you. • It creates an excellent opportunity to communicate with those who grow or create the foods that you eat. It’s important to know what you’re eating. And what better way to find out what’s in your food then being able to talk to the person who grows it and sells it to you? • It helps to build community in your city or neighborhood. One of the great things about going to the farmers’ market is that you have the opportunity to talk with like-minded, health-conscious individuals in your community. • It’s a great way to get kids involved. Let them pick out something new to try, then they can help prepare a meal or snack with you later at home. Exposing our kids to a farmers’ market not only creates a natural opportunity to discuss health, wellness, and nutrition; it also gives them exposure to connect directly with people who grow 16

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the food they eat. This exposure can broaden kids’ interest and awareness of farming, sustainability, and the career of farming as a whole. For those of us with food gardens at home or in a shared space, it can be a great way for our kids to conceptualize the idea of someone making a career from growing food for the local community in addition to our own families. Most of northern Colorado farmers’ markets accept SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits and some even offer additional benefits. Karen Scopel, Natural Resources Manager with the City of Greeley, says the Greeley Farmers’ Market not only accepts SNAP benefits but has a double value benefit in which SNAP benefits are doubled up to $30 per day. According to Scopel, the Greeley Farmers’ Market also has the monthly Growing Kids Program the second Saturday of the month June through September. A special area is set up for children’s activities including nutrition programs, seed planting, scavenger hunts, cooking demos, and more. Participating children receive a $2 coupon to be used toward market produce. Expose your kids and your family to one or all of these local farmers’ markets this summer: • Fort Collins Farmers’ Market Harmony and Lemay in Front of Ace Hardware, www.fortcollinsfm.com/ Sundays, 11am to 3pm rain or shine May through Mid-November (weather permitting) Wednesdays, 11am to 3pm rain or shine, May through October • Loveland Farmers’ Market HWY 287 in front of Hobby Lobby (3133 N. Garfield), www.fortcollinsfm.com/ Tuesdays, 11am to 3pm rain or shine May through October

• Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 W. Drake Road in Fort Collins www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com/ Saturdays 10am to 1pm, April through September • Larimer County Farmers’ Market Larimer County Courthouse parking lot at 200 W. Oak Street in Fort Collins www.larimercountyfarmersmarket.colo state.edu/ Saturdays, 8am to noon, May through October • Greeley Farmers’ Market Historic Union Pacific Depot at 902 7th Avenue, www.greeleygov.com/activities/ farmers-market Saturdays, 7:30am to noon, May through October, Wednesdays, 3pm to 6pm July through September • Wellington Farmers’ Market Centennial Park, 3815 Harrison Avenue, Wellington www.wellingtoncofarmersmarket.org/ Thursdays, 4pm to 8pm/dusk, June-October

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Strengthen your

attachment Making breastfeeding work for you Lynn U. Nichols

aybe you believe breastfeeding is going to be natural and easy—that you and your baby know intuitively what to do to make it work. Or maybe you’ve heard horror stories about sore nipples or not enough milk, and you are feeling nervous to give it a try. Likely you are right in the middle, hopeful that it will work, but practical about possible setbacks. That’s a good place to be. It leaves you open to asking for help when you need it, and accepting of whatever joys and challenges come your way. “My number one tip for success at breastfeeding is patience, especially for new moms. First time moms tend to think their baby will know exactly what to do, but it takes time for babies to figure it out, and for moms to learn the right latch-on position,” says Page Peters, IBCLC, RN, and a Certified Lactation Consultant with Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins. ASKING FOR HELP According to Peters, research shows that moms who have support—whether that’s from a lactation specialist, a support group, family, or from other moms who are breastfeeding—are much more successful. “Support from a partner is also encouraged. I love to see dads get involved with burping the baby, bringing mom

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the baby, changing diapers, and feeding breastmilk from a bottle as they grow older,” Peters adds. The first few weeks of breastfeeding are crucial. It’s when challenges like sore nipples or low milk supply often present themselves. For many, it’s smooth sailing after they’ve made it through the first three weeks. “Asking for guidance early on is important. When still in the hospital we encourage a lot of hand expression, skin-toskin contact between you and your baby, rooming in, and consulting with lactation specialists for education and assistance in successful breastfeeding. ” Peters says. Along with promoting bonding and attachment, skin-to-skin closeness allows new moms to tap into early feeding cues, such as rapid eye movements, clenched fists, hands to mouth, licking, smacking, sucking and finally, crying. Learning the best latch-on techniques from day one reduces the chance of sore nipples and speeds up milk production. WORKING THROUGH SETBACKS “One of the biggest worries of new moms is not having enough milk. Making sure baby is effectively breastfeeding and feeding on demand every two to three hours during the first few weeks

is crucial to establishing a strong milk supply,” Peters says. Yet she wants women to know that if you face challenges with milk supply, you are not alone. While not terribly common, there are several reasons your body could be slow to produce milk, including breast surgery, diabetes, thyroid issues, ovarian cysts, PCOS, or other conditions that affect hormonal levels. Even still, with help you can overcome an initial low milk supply. “It’s easy for some people to say,

Breastfeeding has proven benefits! For baby:

• Fewer infections, skin diseases, allergies, and digestive problems • Less risk developing high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity later in life • Higher IQ scores • Lower incidence of some forms of cancer, especially Hodgkin’s Disease and childhood leukemia • Less risk of SIDS

For mom:

• Lower likelihood of ovarian cancer and premenopausal breast cancer • Lowers risk for long-term obesity • Reduced risk of postpartum bleeding • Faster return to pre-pregnancy weight

‘just breastfeed your baby!’ and give advice but there can be real reasons why a mom’s milk supply is low, so ask if you are concerned,” Peters says. There are solutions. She tells about her daughter who had a rare gestational ovarian cyst and didn’t produce milk for 20 days. Her daughter gave her baby donor human milk and breastmilk provided from a friend while faithfully pumping every three hours. When her milk came in she had a full supply from that day forward. A good way to tell if your baby is getting enough milk is by weighing her regularly those first few weeks—which happens at your scheduled well-baby check, and at breastfeeding support groups offered by UCHealth in Fort Collins and Loveland (see resource box below). Another way is to check that your baby has six wet diapers and four stools every 24 hours after the fifth day. Finally, soft, less full breasts after a feeding is a good sign. Sore nipples are another hurdle some new moms have to overcome. Most moms experience some soreness when first starting to breastfeed. If the soreness becomes more severe, seek help from a lactation specialist immediately. Likely, you just need a little extra guidance. “Nipples heal quickly in most cases. Once we’ve corrected the latch-on technique I tell my new moms if you can hang in for a few more days, it will likely be much better. I’ve had moms in tears saying it hurts too much. At that point I recommend they take a couple breaks to pump and bottle feed so they can rest and heal. It’s a good alternative to quitting,” Peters says. There are several tricks to healing sore nipples, such as using breast shields, lanolin ointments, nursing on one side temporarily, letting nipples air dry and applying cool, moist compresses. While it’s painful, it often takes just a week of healing. The key is getting help quickly. HAVING A PREEMIE If your baby is born early or has health problems and ends up in the neonatal intensive care unit, don’t assume breastfeeding is no longer an option. There are several resources for moms in this situation. Moms can come in the NICU and breastfeed whenever they want,

use pumps at the hospital and provide pumped breast milk to be fed to their child through a feeding tube or bottle. UCHealth hospitals are Baby Friendly and are also part of the Mother’s Milk Bank, so moms have access to pasteurized, pure breast milk. “We assist moms with pumping to help establish full milk supply while at the hospital. That way, when babies are ready to breastfeed there is milk available. We help them transition to more breastfeeding once they go home, so they can meet their breastfeeding goals” says Peters. BEING OKAY WITH BREASTFEEDING YOUR CHILD IN PUBLIC In the state of Colorado, wherever a mom is allowed to be, she can breastfeed. It may seem uncomfortable the first time but you’ll get used to it quickly—as soon as you

realize how wonderful it is to have a ready supply of milk with no worries of whether or not you brought a bottle and kept it safe from contamination. Here are some tips to make it easier: practice at home in front of the mirror, avoid draping a big blanket over you, as you’ll likely feel more conspicuous— try a bulky shirt instead. Or try the new cape that’s available, with an opening at the neck. Peters also recommends front facing baby backpacks that put your baby’s head facing your breast. “Breastfeeding is a real personal experience, but I highly encourage moms to breastfeed in public if they want. When I see a mom breastfeeding in public I hand her a magnet that says, Congrats for breastfeeding in public. You have to feed your baby!” Peters concludes. UCHealth sponsored this article.

Breastfeeding Support

If you are looking for assistance or just camaraderie with other breastfeeding moms, try these resources and classes:

Breastfeeding Support Groups at MCR and PVH

Support groups for breastfeeding moms. Meet with other moms and receive guidance from certified lactation consultants. Group meets every Tuesday at 10am in the lower level at MCR in Loveland, and every Wednesday at 1pm at Westbridge Medical Suites (across from hospital on Lemay) at PVH in Fort Collins. For more, call MCR at 970-624-5100 or PVH at 970-495-8283.

Welcome to Motherhood Support Group

This group is designed to bring new moms together to share experiences, form friendships and learn information. A 30-minute presentation by lactation consultants on various topics such as back to work with breastfeeding, milk storage, developmental milestones and postpartum mood changes begins each session. Held Wednesdays from 2 – 3pm. Family Medicine Center, 1025 Pennock Place, Suite 115 (near Lemay and Riverside). Drop-ins welcome, no registration required. 970-495-7500, no charge.

Wee Steps/Lactation Support Services in Fort Collins

Poudre Valley Hospital provides certified lactation consultants to moms who want one-onone support with breastfeeding. Moms can receive a home or office visit or visits. A baby scale is available for weighing babies pre- and post-feedings. Open to all moms in the area, regardless of whether or not they deliver at PVH. 970-495-8283, no charge. In addition, moms can schedule a back-to-work appointment to receive guidance on pumping.

Breastfeeding Basics Class

Teaches moms-to-be techniques to help breastfeeding go smoothly. Classes are held every month. 970-495-7500 to register. $15. Held at both PVH and MCR.

La Leche League

International group that helps with breastfeeding concerns and offers breastfeeding support. Volunteers offer support to new moms through individual contacts and monthly meetings. Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley. Meetings held 1st Wednesday of every month at 6pm and 3rd Thursday of every month at 10am. Visit www.fortcollinslll.org for details.

The Milk Bank

PVH is a Milk Bank Donor Site. Call 970-495-8283 to donate or to learn how to receive.

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on the

LOOSE When and how to give kids

free range Kim Sharpe

rowing up in a Denver suburban home with a single mom, my younger sister and I were home alone a lot. We had chores, rules and the freedom to play outside on our own. On summer days when mom had to work (which was most days), we’d finish our chores as quickly as possible so we could get on our bikes and ride around the neighborhood or walk a few blocks to a friend’s house or the A&W for ice cream. We’d call and check in with mom often, but for the most part, our days were our own. I raised my three sons much the same way. As they progressively grew older, their responsibilities increased— everything from the chores they were expected to do to the distance they could wander from home without supervision. Our south Fort Collins neighborhood is surrounded on two 20

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sides by natural areas and I know many adventures were had in those wide-open spaces. The other two sides are bordered by very busy streets; they presented more of a concern for me, but with safety rules discussed and practiced, I allowed my sons to solo navigate them, too. As the boys got older, the leash got longer; I allowed them to go farther away from home as they demonstrated good judgement and responsibility. Of course, I instructed them along the way about how to keep themselves safe—everything from discussing “stranger danger” to adamantly insisting they wear helmets when riding on wheeled equipment, like bikes and skate boards. Beyond that, my guys had to travel in a pack or at least a pair. They had to look out for one another and exercise “strength in numbers.” Since my boys grew up right on the

cusp of the time when everyone from kindergartners on up have cell phones, they used more primitive modes of communication for checking in. Either they had to call from wherever they were or keep an ear open for the “come home now” alarm. Very often, when I wanted the boys to come home for lunch or dinner, I’d stand on the front porch and whistle—loudly! They would come running. I didn’t know it at the time, but I was a “free-range” kid and parent. I was allowed the freedom to roam and play and explore the world on my own, and I afforded my sons the same freedom. FREEDOM FROM FEAR Now, that doesn’t mean I wasn’t nervous when they went off on their own. I read the news and was aware that kids get abducted, but I tempered that news with the

belief that society has access to much more of it than in previous decades, so our perception of crime against kids has increased more than the crimes themselves. According to a Gallup survey, violent crime has been declining for the past two decades; people are safer now than “back in the day.” Data from a the 2014 Larimer County Child Health Survey conducted by the Health District of Northern Larimer County shows that 94 percent of survey respondents (Larimer County residents) feel they live in a supportive neighborhood where there is mutual trust and respect. In a WebMD.com story, Lenore Skenazy, A.K.A. “America’s Worst Mom” turned author, keynote speaker and founder of the Free-Range Kids movement, says, “As it turns out, we’re living in about the safest time in history. But if you pay attention to 24-hour cable news, which brings us the worst stories from around the world, you’ll likely believe otherwise.” On her blog, Skenazy says, “Hey! I know we are all scared for our kids! But maybe we don’t have to be quite so terrified! The movement is an attempt to figure out how we got so much more worried for our kids in just one generation, and to separate the real dangers from the ones foisted upon us by the media, and by other folks with things to sell. We all feel a little nervous when we first send our kids walking off to school or send them on overnight camp or whatever. But actually those things are not dangerous.” Skenazy began writing about freerange parenting after she was chastised for allowing her then 9-year-old son to ride a New York subway alone. Living in New York City, the boy was accustomed to using public transportation, and Skenazy equipped him with maps, money and confidence. She and her husband felt he was prepared.

unattended in a car, but the law doesn’t specify outdoor play. According to the news story, “Their actions have sparked a debate about what now has been dubbed free-range parenting and what 50 years ago was considered letting children play.” And what a debate it is. Criticism of free-range parents varies from saying they’re too lazy to keep track of their kids to they’re negligent. Supporters of freerange parenting say it’s how kids learn coping and independent thinking skills, and that they won’t let fear rule their lives. They also point out the damaging effects of their cautious counterparts who fall on the other end of the spectrum, the helicopter parents. The parents who hover over their children and swoop in to save them whenever they get in a tight spot— even when they’re in college. Wendee Brungardt, a Fort Collins mom with three sons, feels the relationship parents build with their kids is part of the free-range equation, too. “You have to have open communication and be able to talk to your kids about everything. The younger the better,” she says. “My husband and I trust our sons. By the 2nd or 3rd grade, we were okay with them going to the park on their own or riding their bike to a friend’s house. They know they have to check in with us and be responsible, but we trust them. We’re not worrisome parents.” However, there are times when it may make sense for parents to exercise

elevated caution and concern. Ashley Sprouse, a Fort Collins mother of two boys says, “I keep a pretty close eye on my kids. My oldest is 7 and I don’t let him go anywhere without me, because we live on a busy street, but also because I know there’s a sex offender living about a block away from us.” Yet she admits that is totally different from how she grew up. “We lived on five acres and could run all over. We lived in the mountains so it was different.” WHEN TO TURN ‘EM LOOSE Richard Gallagher, PhD, associate professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at the NYU Child Study Center, suggests parents ask themselves the following questions when deciding how much freedom to give their kids: • Does my child have the disposition to handle the activity? • Can he or she follow rules? • Does my child know what to do in case there is a problem? • Does my child know from whom it is safe to ask for help? • Does my child have a sense of how to reach out to parents, use a phone, distinguish between police officers and other people? Finally, Gallagher says, it’s about balance. “Let kids face some consequences of their own actions that won’t harm them, but will teach them some lessons.”

FREE-RANGE FIRESTORM As this article is being written, two parents in Maryland are under fire—for the second time—for allowing their two children—ages 10 and 6—to walk home alone from a neighborhood park. In that state, it’s illegal to leave children younger than 8 years old home alone or RMPARENT

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thompson school district news New high school named

On March 4, the Thompson School District Board of Education unanimously approved the name “High Plains School” for the campus that will be constructed at 4255 Buffalo Mountain Drive in Loveland. The name was one of three suggestions that had been forwarded by the project’s Construction Review Committee, which is comprised of district parents, community members and staff. The board also formally approved the selection of Heath Construction in Fort Collins, Colo., as the general contractor for the project as well as an appropriation from district reserves to provide contingency funds and an additional allocation of $855,750 to complete the construction of a preschool section on the new school as originally designed. “There is so much passion in the community surrounding this new school,” says Marc Seter, chairman of the project’s Construction Review Committee. “Since the economic downturn in 2008, our community has had a yearning for this school. The number of people who have expressed their enthusiasm for this project is simply amazing. People have moved into the area specifically because of this project. There is a great amount of enthusiasm and relief that the naming process is finally complete and 22

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we can now move forward to see this school become a reality.” “I simply can’t tell you how excited I am to see this school move forward,” says Kim Perry, vice president of Community Design and Neighborhood Development for McWhinney, the developer of the Centerra community where the school will be located. “It has been such a long time coming and we are exceptionally happy about where the project is going. This new school will serve as a wonderful asset to both existing residents and others who choose to move into this area.” A formal groundbreaking ceremony was held at the school site on April 22. TSD HIRES NEW CFO Thompson School District has named Gordon Jones as Chief Financial Officer. Jones will fill the position previously held

by Stephen Towne, who was killed in a tragic automobile accident in January. Jones most recently served as the Chief Financial Officer for Center Partners in Fort Collins, a role that he held for approximately 10 years. Before his appointment to that position, he also guided the company as the Director of Finance and as a financial analyst. Center Partners, now known as Qualfon, is a contact center outsourcing company that has built an excellent reputation for high performance sales programs for its clients in the communications, financial, technology and retail industries. The company has six contact centers across Idaho, Washington and Colorado with an employee base of approximately 2,500 individuals. “I am excited and humbled by the opportunity to join the Thompson team,” Jones says. “I look forward to immersing myself in this new role, learning from the excellent staff that is in place and continuing along with this new pathway in my career. Mr. Towne was an extraordinary team member and public servant for this community and I look forward to carrying on his proud tradition.” Jones earned an Associate of Arts degree in Accounting from Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colo., and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from the University of Northern Colorado. He successfully completed the Uniform Certified Public Accountant exam in May of 2000 on his first sitting. Jones’ start date with the district was March 23. MOUNTAIN VIEW COACH RECEIVES NATIONAL AWARD The Positive Coaching Alliance announced that Mountain View High School football coach Bart Mayes has been named one of 25 winners

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nationwide in the group’s campaign to recognize coaches who go beyond the goal of winning games to also teach important life and character-building lessons through their sport. This year’s “Double-Goal Coach Award” winners were chosen from a record 2,100 nominations from throughout the United States. Each winner receives $250, a trophy and celebration and appreciation from all corners of the PCA Movement. Congratulations, Coach Mayes! LINCOLN ELEMENTARY IS A 2015 HEALTHY SCHOOL CHAMPION Lincoln Elementary has been named a “2015 Healthy School Champion” and has been recognized as one of Colorado’s healthiest schools. Every year, The Colorado Education Initiative honors Colorado schools that have recognized the importance of a healthy and engaging learning environment for all students. Forty-seven Colorado schools are part of The Healthy School Champions Program, which is in its fifth year of supporting and celebrating healthy schools with more than $163,000 in awards being granted over the past five years. Award amounts range from $300 to $6,000. This year’s “7th Annual Summit and Luncheon: Seeing is Believing” was hosted at the Sheraton Denver Downtown on April 24. The summit and luncheon is among the highest 24

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profile education events in Colorado to celebrate innovation in public schools. It attracts more than 1,500 individuals representing leaders in education, business, advocacy and government. Winning schools attend the Healthy School Champions recognition breakfast that features the Healthy School Champions, a voluntary program to assess and recognize best practices in health and wellness in time for Healthy Schools Month in April. The unique program provides a voluntary online, quantitative tool to assist schools in assessing their coordinated efforts and best practices in school health. This year, schools completed either the Smart Source or Healthy School Champions Score Card assessment. To be eligible for an award, schools also submitted letters of support from an administrator, student, teacher, parent and community member. The luncheon’s keynote speaker was Dr. Mae C. Jemison, M.D., a physician and NASA astronaut — the first AfricanAmerican woman to travel in space. COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS HOSTS EMPLOYER APPRECIATION BREAKFAST Thompson School District’s Community Connections is a transition program that serves 18- to 21-year-old adults who

receive special education services. Community Connections provides education and training as students work toward their post-school goals through mastery of functional academics, independent living, recreation/leisure and vocational skills. The program recently hosted its annual Employer Appreciation Breakfast, where local businesses were honored for giving students the chance to have a work experience in their place of business. The businesses that were honored included Loveland Public Library, Dogs’ Own Daycare, Berthoud Athletic Club, Sierra Vista Healthcare Center, Loveland Youth Gardeners, Mountain View Presbyterian Church, Thompson School District Transportation and Administration, Aspen House Assisted Living, Da Bean and Loco’s Artisan Coffee. Students made homemade breads and breakfast items to serve to their guests. Community Connections would like to thank all of the businesses and programs that support their program.

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poudre school district news Gardens and nature centers enrich schools plains Paul Schkade, IB coordinator and tech integration specialist at McGraw. From painting to planting, gardens at PSD schools are enriching education with a blast of earth.

Across Fort Collins, teachers are encouraging students to play in the dirt. The brown fingernails are a result of more and more Poudre School District schools adding gardens, nature centers and composting projects to their campus to enrich education and community life. “We’re teaching kids about all the things that go along with gardening,” says Josh Mcguire, learning garden educator with The Kitchen Community, a nonprofit out of Boulder, which has helped several PSD schools establish gardens. Along with the basics of how to care for plants, students learn about sustainability, nutrition and teamwork. Those “extras” also inspired Anne Genson, former community health educator, to found Sproutin’ Up, a nonprofit which uses crops grown by students in school gardens to create inexpensive farmers markets in communities with limited access to fresh produce. The newest chapter will start up at Wellington Middle School this summer. “We tie in the health concept with the gardening concept,” Genson explains. Weeds become a metaphor for junk food in the body. Watering illustrates the importance of hydration. The gardens at Beattie Elementary—where every grade level plants 26

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a different vegetable—and Rocky Mountain High School helped both schools earn recognition as Healthy School Champions from the Colorado Legacy Foundation. For schools without a garden, the Child Nutrition department ensures kids will still have access to fresh produce, spending over $1 million dollars each year on fruits and veggies that are locally sourced when possible from farms like Wacky Apple and Fossil Creek Farms. They also support composting initiatives at individual schools, which dramatically reduces food waste and creates an opportunity for students to learn about the mechanics and ethics of recycling. “It’s so rewarding to be putting one bag of food waste out instead of 10 bags, which is what it used to be before we started composting,” Loren Jones, head custodian at Lopez Elementary says. Hands-on learning about the environment has also taken hold at McGraw Elementary, where a new nature center features vegetation native to each Colorado life zone. An outdoor classroom offers giant boulders for recess lounging, environmental guest speakers, and classes. “We want it to be a place where students can connect with nature,” ex-

STUDENTS TURN WASTE INTO ENERGY More than 134 tons of lunchroom leftovers have been recycled this school year in Poudre School District. About 15 schools coordinate with A1 Organics, a local recycling company which composts food waste, to reuse waste for a productive purpose. Come summer, A1 Organics will begin using one of the largest anaerobic digesters in the country to compost food. A byproduct of the process is methane gas, which will enter natural gas pipelines and be sold to the city of Sacramento. The process provides a sustainable alternative to allowing food waste to decompose in a landfill, where methane is released into the atmosphere and becomes a harmful greenhouse gas. “It’s awesome because we’re turning

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waste into energy by using a giant mechanical stomach, which makes gas that powers stoves and appliances,” says Evan Shortridge, one of the fifth graders in the Green Scene Team at Harris Bilingual Elementary School. The fifth graders have adopted the responsibility of teaching the younger

students about what they can and can’t compost, doing in-class demonstrations and monitoring the bins at lunch. “We’re helping the younger generations to learn about composting,” Dayanara Lerma, a fifth-grader and member of the Green Scene Team says. “It’s important because if we don’t, it’s sort of like we’re not helping the earth, and we want to help the earth.” “And the generation that we’re teaching will teach the kids that come after them,” Evan added. “Hopefully it goes on infinitely.” Along with learning about the mechanics of composting, the kids have also learned about reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels, which are estimated to last only another 130 years at the current global rate of usage by the International Energy Agency. “You start to feel uncomfortable with the world you don’t want,” Dayanara says. The hands-on process of separating the food and milk cartons on their lunch trays makes abstract concepts

like “sustainability” real to the elementary students. “The kids start to see the full cycle of energy, how waste is turned into compost then natural gas,” says Kate Kasakowski, a paraprofessional at Harris who’s been the driving force behind the project. “They feel a sense of pride and ownership,” fifth grade teacher Monica Rogers says. “They have a sense of how they can help the environment for the future.”

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greeley-evans district 6 news GAP principal honored by United Way the years, including financial donations after the 2013 floods.

The United Way of Weld County Celebration of Excellence at the University of Northern Colorado honored Greeley-Evans Alternative Program Principal Dave Shaffer as the Education Advocate of the Year. Dave has been the principal at GAP for seven years. He served five years as principal of the Colorado High School Charter in Greeley. He has also worked as transportation supervisor and middle school technology teacher. Dave was recognized for his incredible work with at-risk youth, helping students with multiple challenges find a path to graduation. GAP is a program for older students, ages 17-21, which allows them to work on different schedules to complete their high school education. GAP also operates a GED program. Also honored were Sandy Bright, president of ABC Child Development Centers of Greeley that works with District 6 to provide preschool services to students, and Meeker Elementary School, which was honored for its youth fundraising campaign. A shout out as well to our community partners, Flood and Peterson, named Company of the Year, and NCMC, Inc., named Community Partner of the Year. Both these entities have donated significantly to District 6 over 30

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DISTRICT 6 STUDENT NAMED BOETTCHER SCHOLAR A Northridge High School student has been awarded the prestigious Boettcher Foundation Scholarship, while two other District 6 students have been named as alternates to receive the award. Jackie English helps Northridge continue its Boettcher streak, becoming the eighth Northridge senior in eight years to be named a Boettcher scholar. In part, English credits teachers who truly care about students and the diversity at Northridge for her success and motivation. “I think the school has an incredible environment to promote excellence,” English says. “It is an environment that makes me humble and grateful.” English also credits her mother for much of her success, even writing her long essay for the Boettcher application about her relationship with her mother.

The University of Denver is English’s choice for college, and she hopes to study political science and economics, with her sights on entering politics someday. Like many Boettcher scholars, English is involved in many activities and projects, including serving on the Student Council, participating in speech and debate, being a member of the golf and dance teams at Northridge, and volunteering at her alma mater, McAuliffe

Elementary School. She also hosted a leadership seminar in September for underclassmen, helping them to learn skills necessary to take on leadership roles in school and in the community. Katiana Uyemura of Greeley Central High School and Victoria Palmer of Frontier Academy Secondary were named as alternates for the Boettcher scholarship. They will have the opportunity receive the award if other scholars turn down the scholarship. 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. DISTRICT 6 STUDENTS NAMED DANIELS SCHOLARS Nine Greeley-Evans School District 6 seniors who will graduate in May have been notified they will receive the prestigious Daniels Scholarship. Paid for through the Daniels Fund, a private foundation started by entrepreneur and cable television pioneer Bill Daniels, these scholarships cover four years of tuition and fees, room and board, books and miscellaneous educational expenses for scholars who attend any accredited nonprofit college or university in the United States. Nearly 3,000 students applied for Daniels Scholarships this year. The foundation awarded 250 scholarships in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. The Daniels Fund awards scholarships based not only on academic success, but also on the character, leadership qualities and commitment to contributing to the community exhibited by students. “The Daniels Fund scholarship recognizes some of our most accomplished students and gives them the opportunity to continue their education and realize

their dreams,” says Interim Superintendent Wayne Eads. “We are very proud of all these students have accomplished and given back to their schools and their community.” The District 6 Daniels Scholarship recipients for 2015 are: • Andra Lee Turner, Greeley West High School • Wilfredo Andres Castillo, Northridge High School • Jose Misael Madera Miramontes, Northridge High School • Jeremy David Segelke, Northridge High School • Katy Moriah Campbell, Greeley Central High School • Hannah Lee Mow, Frontier Charter Academy • Tanner James Lucas, Union Colony Preparatory School • Alyssa Miranda Boll, Union Colony Preparatory School • Amanda Jo Horn, University Schools

Last year, seven District 6 students received Daniels scholarships. Over the past nine years, 74 District 6 scholars have received this competitive award.

Since the program was launched in 2000, the Daniels fund has awarded more than $108 million in scholarships.

sors are needed to make that goal. Sponsors can help with this event in many ways:

DISTRICT 6 SEEKS SPONSORS FOR SCHOOL KICKOFF EVENT Greeley-Evans School District 6 is seeking sponsors for the second annual School Kickoff Community Celebration, to be held Saturday, August 8 at Island Grove Regional Park. Funded totally through private donations, the inaugural 2014 event raised enough money to give away 775 backpacks filled with school supplies, provided lunch to 1,200, provided more than 80 onsite $10 sports physicals for students, featured six student entertainment groups and had more than 50 community booths and activities such as carnival games and face painting. It is estimated more than 3,000 people attended the event. The goal for this year’s event is to give away at least 2,000 backpacks filled with school supplies and provide lunch for at least 2,000 participants. Many more spon-

Each sponsorship level has marketing and publicity opportunities for businesses and organizations, as well as a free community booth at the event. Any business or organization interested in becoming a sponsor for the event should contact District 6 Director of Communications Theresa Myers at (970) 3486003 or at tmyers@greeleyschools.org. For more information on the School Year Kickoff Community Celebration, visit www.greeleyschools. org/kickoff.

• $3,000 will buy 200 backpacks and help fund the free lunch • $1,000 will buy 100 backpacks to give away to District 6 students • $250 will help purchase school supplies to go inside the backpacks • $200 will help purchase beverages for the event • $100 will fund 10 sports physicals for students

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lunchbox POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT—Elementary student lunches are $2.35, secondary student lunches are $2.60 and reduced lunches are $0.40. Entrees offered daily: Elementary—a variety of fruits and vegetables, milk and juices; Secondary--hot and cold sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, deli salad and pizza. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 1 Cheese or pepperoni pizza; chef salad 4 Potato bar w/chili; chicken patty sandwich 5 Cheese ravioli; chicken bites and biscuit 6 Beef fried rice & egg roll; hamburger/cheeseburger 7 Beef tacos & cilantro lime rice 8 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza; veggie wrap 11 Chicken noodle soup & breadstick; chicken nuggets 12 Spaghetti & roasted veggie meat sauce; turkey gravy & roll

13 Asian teriyaki rice bowl w/chicken; chicken drumstick 14 Chicken enchilada bake; chili cheese dog 15 No school! 18 Sloppy Joe sandwich; mac n’cheese 19 Penne & meatsauce; chicken nuggets 20 Asian noodles w/chicken; trout treasures 21 Beef burrito; hamburger/cheeseburger 22 Meat lovers or cheese pizza; chicken Caesar wrap 25 No School! 26 Chicken patty sandwich; turkey &

cheese wrap 27 Orange chicken & rice; hot dog 28 Cheese or pepperoni pizza SECONDARY SCHOOLS 4 BBQ chicken sandwich; Sloppy Joe 5 Spaghetti & meatballs; ravioli 6 Asian Teriyaki rice w/chicken; chicken nuggets w/sauce 7 Taco bar 8 Trout melt sandwich; bacon mac n’cheese 11 Taco burger; chicken sandwich 12 Lasagna; rotini w/veggies and chicken 13 General Tso Chicken/beef; ham-

burger 14 Burrito bar 15 No school! 18 Chili cheese dog; chicken bites 19 Spaghetti & roasted veggies & meat; meatball sub 20 Asian noodles w/chicken & beef 21 Green chili; hamburger 22 Pig in a blanket; mashed potato & chicken bowl 25 No school! 26 Penne & meat sauce; chicken nuggets 27 Fried rice w/beef & egg roll; mac n’cheese 28 Burrito bar

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT — Elementary lunches are $2.75. Secondary school lunches are $3. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit. 1 Teriyaki chicken bowl; garden entrée salad 4 Chicken patty sandwich; Caesar salad 5 Chicken Alfredo; chicken tender salad 6 Meatball sandwich; chef salad 7-8 No school! 11 Chicken breast nuggets; Caesar

salad 12 French bread boat; chicken tender salad 13 Hamburger; chef salad 14 Burrito Grande; taco salad 15 Hot dog; garden entrée salad 18-28 Manager’s choice SECONDARY SCHOOLS 1 Teriyaki chicken bowl; French

bread boat 4 Chicken patty sandwich; meat nachos 5 Chicken Alfredo w/penne; hamburger 6 Meatball sandwich; chicken breast strips 7 Chicken quesadilla; spicy chicken sandwich

8 Pizza stick; grilled chicken sandwich 11 Chicken breast nuggets; sloppy Joe 12 French bread boat; hot ham & cheese sandwich 13 Burger bar 14 Burrito grande; meatball sandwich 15 Hot dog 18-28 Manager’s choice

GREELEY DISTRICT 6 —To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.50, and middle school lunches are $2.75, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1 Cheese or green chili chicken pizza 4 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 5 Cheese ravioli w/red sauce & red stick; club hoagie 6 Chicken taco; PBJ sandwich 7 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 8 Hawaiian or cheese pizza 11 Mac n’cheese w/dinner roll; chicken salad sandwich

12 Been & cheese burrito; turkey & cheese wrap 13 Herb chicken w/roll; PBJ 14 Chicken Alfredo pasta w/breadstick; Italian hoagie 15 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza 18 Pork carnitas w/corn tortillas; chicken fajita wrap 19 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 20 Breakfast for lunch; PBJ

SECONDARY SCHOOLS 1 Cheese or green chili chicken pizza 4 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 5 Cheese ravioli w/red sauce & red stick; club hoagie 6 Chicken taco; PBJ sandwich 7 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 8 Hawaiian or cheese pizza 11 Mac n’cheese w/dinner roll; chicken salad sandwich

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT — Price for elementary lunch is $2.35, for middle school students, $2.55. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt. 1 Pizza; grilled cheese sandwich 4 Hot dog; twin cheeseburger 5 Quesadilla; corn dog 6 Waffle stick; Jamwich 7 Mini cheese ravioli; twin cheeseburger 8 Cheese stuffed bread-

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sticks w/sauce; grilled cheese sandwich 11 Cheese nachos; twin cheeseburger 12 Chicken tenders; corn dog 13 Rotini w/meatballs; jamwich 14 Teriyaki chicken; twin

cheeseburger 15 Pizza; grilled cheese sandwich 18 Chicken sandwich; twin cheeseburger 19 Corn dog; grilled cheese sandwich 20 Taco; jamwich 21 Hamburger/twin

cheeseburger SECONDARY SCHOOLS 1 Chicken wings 4 Wiener wrap 5 Chicken tacos 6 Waffle stick 7 Mini cheese ravioli 8 Turkey club wrap 11 Cheese nachos

12 Pork BBQ sandwich 13 Chicken Parmesan 14 Teriyaki chicken 15 Steak & cheese sub 18 Chicken patty 19 Corn dog 20 Taco 21 Cheeseburger

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M AY 2 0 1 5 ONGOING MAY 1-3, 8 AND 9 The Jungle Book Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book is at once a thrilling adventure about a boy growing up in the jungles of India and a fable that relays rules about the safety of individuals, families and communities. $8. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. Show times vary. 970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

MAY 8 AND 9 The Medium and Signor Deluso Comedy and tragedy are presented in these two American one-act operas. Minimal sets and costumes require a great sense of imagination, creating a profound acting experience for the singers and the audience. Runyan Hall, 1400 Remington St., FC. 7:30pm. www.CSUArtsTickets.com.

MAY 6, 13 AND 20 Game Dare Game Dare is gaming with a twist. You don’t just play a game, you complete a dare. A true challenge with unlockable achievements (snacks). Farr Regional Library, Meeting Room, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 4:30-5:30pm. 1-888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

MAY 15 AND 25 School’s Day Out Camps Pack a lunch and spend a day gardening, cooking, crafting and discovering. Registration required. $45/child. The Gardens On Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 9am-4pm. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

MAY 6, 13, 20 AND 27 Super May Days Get a sneak peek at the Super Hero Summer during the month-long celebration of heroes. This program is for families with preschool children. Lincoln Park Library, Children’s Area, 919 7th St., Ste. 100, GR. 10-10:30am. 1-888861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

MAY 18 AND 19 The Sky’s the Limit Mountain Kids Dance presents their 2015 Spring Dance Recital. The recital will feature dance classes from age 3 through adult, showcasing what they learned in classes throughout the year. $5. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 6:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

TUESDAYS, MAY 5 THROUGH OCTOBER Loveland Farmers Market Vegetables, eggs, fruits, baked goods, meat, birdhouses, honey, specialty foods and goods. In front of Hobby Lobby, 3133 N. Garfield Ave., LV. 11am-3pm. www.fortcollinsfm.com. SATURDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 26 Drake Road Farmers Market Vegetables, eggs, fruits, baked goods, meat, seafood, honey, specialty foods and goods from more than 40 vendors. 802 W. Drake Road, FC. 10am-1pm. www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com. SATURDAYS, MAY 16 THROUGH OCTOBER 24 Larimer County Farmers Market Breads and pastries, eggs and meat, fruits and vegetables, flowers, crafts and jewelry, jams and jellies, skin care, sauces and salsas, wine, yogurt and cheese. Larimer County Courthouse parking lot, 200 W. Oak St., FC. 8am-12noon. www.larimercountyfarmersmarket. colostate.edu/index.shtml.

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SUNDAYS, MAY 3 THROUGH MID-NOVEMBER Fort Collins Farmers Market Vegetables, fruits, plants and flowers, meats, eggs, honey, baked goods, pet treats, specialty foods and goods from about 40 vendors. Parking lot of ACE Hardware, 1001 E. Harmony Road, FC. 11am-3pm. www.fortcollinsfm.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6 Oscar Nominated Animated Shorts Each spring, theater audiences all over the world enthusiastically welcome the appearance of the Oscar-nominated short films in local theaters. Films include: A Single Life, Feast, Me and My Moulton, The Bigger Picture and The Dam Keeper. $8. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm. 970962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 2 Loveland Loves Origami Bring origami paper or colored copy paper. Loveland Library, Children’s Study Room, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. General workshop: 10-11:30am, Parent/ Child class: 12:30-2pm. janetdeen@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 7 Free Admission Day at the Loveland Museum/Gallery Enjoy the current main gallery art exhibition “ArtScienceNature— Thompson School District Art Show”, and other current art exhibits for free. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10am-7pm. 970-9622410 or www.cityofloveland.org.

Free Comic Book Day Comics for every age and genre! This mini festival features local artists, writers, demos, popular games, live action role playing and jousters. Gryphon Games & Comics, 2020 S. College Ave., Ste. B, FC. 10am-6pm. 970-224-3599 or www.gryphongamesandcomics.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 3 Concert Orchestra and Concert Band Concert Concert Orchestra performs music by French composers including Berger, Debussy and Rameau. Griffin Concert Hall, 1400 Remington St., FC. 7:30pm. www.CSUArtsTickets.com. TUESDAY, MAY 5 Parents’ Day Tea There will be loose leaf tea with goodies, a humorous tea time story, games and a craft. Preschool-aged children and caregivers. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 10-11:30am. 1-888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us. Star Wars Episode Fun: Revenge of the Fifth Calling all Jedi! Younglings and Masters alike are welcome to attend an evening of games, trivia and crafts in celebration of Star Wars. Costumes are strongly encouraged. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4pm. 1-888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

SATURDAY, MAY 9 The Bliss Run 5K women’s fun run/walk that benefits the SAVA Center and CSU Campus Corps. $25-35. CSU Oval, 795 Oval Drive, FC. 10am-12pm. 303-818-7858 or www.theblissrun.com. Asian Fest Music, dance, stories, martial arts, cooking demos and much more. A day of fun for everyone celebrating cultures of Asian and the Pacific Islands. Old Town Library, Community Room Combo, 201 Peterson St., FC . 10am-5pm. 970-2216740 or www.poudrelibraries.org. Tyler, the Yo-Yo Man Walk the Dog and Go Around the World. Watch Tyler’s amazing tricks and learn how to yo-yo. Grades K-5. Lincoln Park Library, Children’s Area, 919 7th St., Ste. 100, GR. 2-3pm. 1-888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us. I Heart Health, Your Heart Matters Supports cardiac research, treatment and prevention in northern Colorado. It is an evening celebrating the heart and keeping it healthy. Ticket prices vary. Embassy Suites Loveland, 4705 Clydesdale Pkwy., LV. 6-11pm. 970-237-7404 or www.supportinghealth.org/springbenefit.

TUESDAY, MAY 12 TeaInk Enjoy tea, a snack and some creative writing challenges. No writing experience required, just an open mind. Grades 6-12. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4-5pm. 970-962-2584 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org. WEDNESDAY, MAY 13 Rock Band Project Students are placed center-stage in a simulated rock concert that is part performance and part lighting design. University Theater, 1400 Remington St., FC. 6:30pm. www.CSUArtsTickets.com. Rocky Mountain Raptors Explore the arctic, the woods and the open country, and see three raptors from these areas. Old Town Library, Community Room Combo, 201 Peterson St., FC 6:30-7:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org. Handmade Evening at the Library Learn to make pillows. Participants can choose to make one of several styles: Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 1-888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

THURSDAY, MAY 14 Sneak Peek! Get an informal behind-the-scenes glimpse of the expanded and renovated museum spaces and upcoming exhibitions. Avenir Gallery, 1400 Remington St., FC. Gallery hours vary. 970-491-7122 or Doreen.Beard@colostate.edu. AMPLIFIED! A Showcase of Local Talents Hosted at Nana Bea’s A platform for people of any experience level to perform in front of a live, attentive audience. Nana Bea’s Ice Cream Parlor, 430 Main St., WS. 4:30-6:30pm. 970-6865603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 15 Family Video Game Night This fun-filled evening features video games and board games for all ages and abilities. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 Third St., WS. 5:30-7:30pm. 970-6865603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

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Zombie Prom Evening wear highly encouraged, especially if you don’t mind getting it splattered with a little blood and bits of brain. It is a zombie prom after all. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 7-10pm. 1-888-861-7323 or www. MyLibrary.us.

SATURDAY, MAY 16 Rocky Mountain Park: The First 100 Years Get a sneak peek at the 2015 centennial of Colorado’s premier national park with award-winning author Mary Taylor young. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2pm. 1-888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us. SUNDAY, MAY 17 27th Annual McKee Classic Bike Tour This non-competitive, multi-distance bicycle tour travels through the beautiful foothills of Larimer County in Loveland and Fort Collins. Prices vary. McKee Medical Center, 2000 Boise Ave., LV. 6:30am. 970-820-2519 or www.McKeeFoundationEvents.com. 8th Annual Tour de Coop A six- to eight-mile bike ride from coop to coop in and around Fort Collins. Registration required. $25. Starting location to be announced. 8:30am-1:30pm. 970-224-3247 or www.sustainablelivingassociation.org. Kites in the Park Kite Festival This free family event will feature kite flying demonstrations, the Recreation Summer Activities Fair, synchronized kite flying, free face painting and, of course, the free Kite Making Station. Spring Canyon Community Park, 2626 W. Horsetooth Rd., FC. 10am-4pm. www.downtownfortcollins.com.

MONDAY, MAY 18 Backyard Buddies Did you know that when your children play, they also are learning? Bring your toddler to the library to kick off National Backyard Games Week. Erie Community Library, 400 Powers St., Erie. 10:3011:30am. 1-888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 20 Lone Tree School Ice Cream Social Visit this historic one-room schoolhouse for an open house, ice cream, tours, crafts, games and horse-drawn carriage rides. Lone Tree School, North Lake Park, LV. 3-5pm. www.cityofloveland.org. THURSDAY, MAY 21 Native American Stories Parents and children are encouraged to join Mrs. Potts and delight in various tales at the museum. $1 donation/child appreciated. Greeley History Museum, 714 8th St., GR. 10am. 970-350-9220 or www.greeleymuseums.com. Drawbot Factory All the parts and tools are provided so you can create your own simple robot. Registration required. Grades 3-5. Carbon Valley Library, Meeting Room, 7 Park Ave., Firestone. 4-5pm. 720-6855118 or www.MyLibrary.us. Artmakers This “art-with-a-purpose” program will present a new project every month. Ages 12 to adult. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., Ste. 100, GR. 4-6pm. 1-888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us. New Twist on Vegetable Grilling Cooking class taught by Deanna O’Connell, RD. $10. Pathways Hospice, 305 Carpenter Rd., FC. 6-7:15pm. 970350-6633.

FRIDAY, MAY 22 Kid’s Yoga/Kid’s Cooking The class includes movement, dancing and reducing stress through breath work and song. Learn to make tasty treats and snacks. $10 - first child; $5 - each child after with the same adult. NCMC Auditorium, 1801 16th St., GR. 9-11am. 970-350-6633. SATURDAY, MAY 23 Children’s Triathlon and Family Fun Run Register for the Triathlon or gather the whole family to participate in the Family Fun Run. Registration required. $25. O’Dea Core Knowledge Elementary School, 312 Princeton Rd., FC. 7am. www.fortcollinschildrenstriathlon.com.

Instrument Try-Outs Try out a variety of instruments and see which one is right for you. Prices vary. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10am-1pm. 970-2216738 or www.fcmod.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 Movin’ and Groovin’ Learn how and why animals move in different ways and listen to an edzoo-cational story about how animals meet their basic needs. Registration required. Erie Library, Meeting Room, 400 Powers St., Erie. 4-4:45pm. and 5-5:45pm. 1-888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us. THURSDAY, MAY 28 Safe Sitter This class is designed for 11 to 13 year olds to learn babysitting as a business, child care essentials, safety for the sitter, preventing injuries and injury and behavior management. Registration required. $45. Family Fun Plex, 1501 65th Ave, GR. 9am-2pm. 970-350-9400. FRIDAY, MAY 29 DIY Catapult Contest ompete in this outdoor catapult contest. Grades 6-12. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4-5pm. 970-962-2548 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org. SATURDAY, MAY 30 2nd Annual Poudre RiverFest Proceeds from the festival support local conservation and education groups in Fort Collins. Legacy Park, 300 Woodlawn Drive, FC. 9am-6pm. 970-224-3247 or www.sustainablelivingassociation.org. Old Town Car Show There will be awards for “Best in Show”, “People’s Choice” and “Ladies Choice.” Awards will be determined by professional judges. Old Town Fort Collins, FC. 10am-3pm. www.downtownfortcollins.com.

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time out

Fact: girls hate their mothers Daughters are predestined to be hard on their mothers LEA HANSON

nyone who is a girl, has been a girl, or is a mother to a girl knows girls are hardest on their mothers. It’s science. Sure, this can range from “Maaaahm, you’re so embarrassing!” to the concise “I hate you!” but we can all relate to some effect. I think my own mother-hating stage may have lasted longer than normal—maybe from the age of 13 or so until solidly into my 20s so I acknowledge I may be biased toward the extreme end. On the other hand, like I said, it’s science: girls hate their mothers. Maybe it’s due to this elongated stage that karma has perfectly cut my work out for me. My daughter is only 4 and while she’s still madly in love with me and attached to me like a precious little bunion, she’s clearly and seemingly deliberately harder on me than she is on her dad or any other adult with authority in her life. Her teachers and my adult friends generally find her to be polite, obedient, and pleasant. She does what she is asked, says please and thank you, and talks and acts like the competent 4-year-old she is. Enter me, she’s flopping around, talking in baby talk, asks 100 times although I’ve answered a patient “no” after 99 of them, and generally presses my buttons. When she has a babysitter, the report is that she goes right to bed and directly to sleep. When I’m out and her dad puts her to bed it’s almost that perfect. And, when I put her to bed there is always flopping, almost always crying, and definitely for sure no doubt about it getting up no fewer than six times to ask for unneeded things. She’s smart enough to push buttons, I know. And (sorry, mom) I have clear memories of intentionally pushing my mom’s buttons to get what I wanted. It’s what people do. Because, science. I’d like to think I’m somewhat stern and very consistent as a parent but the fact that 40

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she does this tells me I might be neither of these things. So, I just try to be patient and end up turning around so I can roll my eyes in peace. I get it. It’s not personal. It happens to all mothers and I did it to my own. In some cosmic way I’ve earned this, for sure. But it’s exhausting. Why can’t she just like me? Other people like me,

at 16? I just didn’t see it. Listen, I’m smart and savvy enough to see the writing on the wall. I’ve got some long, tough years ahead of me, I think. So I’m already thinking of ways to stay cool and relevant but deep down I know it won’t matter. It’s just science and I can’t argue with that. In ten years my daughter will probably die from

including kids for the record. Many find me a joy to be around, in fact. And that’s the thing. I remember my friends liking my mom. It was unfathomable at the peak of my teenage years that my (super awesome) friends would think my (totally lame) mom was funny or nice or (GASP) cool. It was very clear they liked her and I could not figure out why. I mean, it’s very clear to me now why a person would like my mother. She’s a gem and then some. But,

embarrassment simply by the sight of me and I’ll just have to let it roll off my back. I’m tired just thinking about it. But, as previously mentioned, I know this game. I was so horrified to the max by my mother I sometimes actually think I may have invented the game. So, as inventor, I know all the rules. I may be a little rusty, but I hopefully have it in me to play another round, but this time I’m playing offense, which should be interesting.

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• Accepting Infants (6 weeks) to 12 yrs • Day Camp Program for School-Age Children with Awesome Daily Field Trips

s c i t s a n Gym LESSONS

• Daily Gym Time with access to Zip Line, Trampolines, Climbing Walls, In-Air Obstacle Course and much More!

• Full and Partial Day Preschool with emphasis on School Readiness

• Qualistar Rated Program with high-quality staff and curriculum • Nurturing Environment • Nutritious Breakfast, Lunch, and Snacks • Enrichment Activities

ls • All skill leve t classes • Mom and To staff • High quality

0.0632 3 3 . 0 7 9 L L A C info! for more

s e i t r a P E

TUR N E V D A

ties roup Par G e g r a ay & L • Birthd t Discoun • Group ft. Gym • 6500sq e • Zip Lin ourse ay to d o bstacle C t O l l a ir a C • In alls ty! mbing W li C k c your par o k o •R o b lines • Trampo able rds Avail a C t if G •

63 970.330.0

Enrollment Specials, Call Now!

RMPARENT

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| RMPARENT