FIT AND FUN! CELEBRATING 26 YEARS OF SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO FAMILIES JULY 2023 • RMPARENT.COM
trip to Southern Colorado
riding, disc golf and fishing
to high school survival guide
for the trail Making the most of summer getaways
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18 Making the most of summer getaways
Family vacations are great opportunities to reconnect and enjoy each other. This built-in quality family time is great for playing and having fun together without all the daily responsibilities. Include your kids in the planning process and have a great summer.
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Soak up the summer and find your own "fun in the sun" through activities and enrichment for the whole family!
RMPARENT | 5 contents 6 Perspective The way we do it—Checking off boxes isn’t the point 8 Family Health Middle to high school survival guide—Make a plan and then enjoy the journey 10 Family Fun Outdoor activities to try this summer— Horseback riding, disc golf and fishing 12 Favorite Things Hiking Accessories—Essentials for the trail 14 Family Travels Road Trip—Summer in Southern Colorado— Hiking, tubing, biking—fun for everyone 28 Community news Free bus rides and life jackets plus summer challenges and emergency preparedness 30 Calendar Events and activities for parents, kids and families 36 Time out Moving into adulthood—Where did the babies go DEPARTMENTS SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS 22 Greeley-Evans D6 Staff, alumni and families bid farewell to Madison School, Governor signs two bills at Prairie Heights Middle School 24 Poudre Project SEARCH intern and Fort Collins Police Services create path for others 26 Thompson Erin Sanfeliz – Loveland High School –Class of 1995
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FEATURE
SCOTT TITTERINGTON Perspective
The way we do it—Checking off boxes isn’t the point
MY HABIT IS TO JUDGE MY DAY by how much I get done and my runs by how far and how fast I go. Pretty much everything is quantified, more or less. And this drive to run faster, jump higher and do more really doesn’t fill my life, or the life of the people around me, with more joy. It just means I can tick more boxes that no one, even me, actually cares about.
I’m working on pressing the pause button more often. It gives me space to reflect on the idea that it’s not what you do but the way that you do it that matters, as Jude says in the Thanksgiving scene in Across the Universe. It’s worth a moment to ask what we’re trying to accomplish with this little life of ours. I’m pretty sure that it’s not ticking more boxes.
I’m going to throw this out: Our happiness on our journey through life is highly tied to our ability to slow down, pause even, and enjoy the moment with our people. Being right or achieving more does give us a certain satisfaction, but it’s usually fleeting, and downright empty if we don’t have people to share it with.
I just read Lynn Nichols’ story about spending time together as a family this summer. I was inspired. Not to put words in her mouth, but it seems to me that she’s saying that quality time on a vacation or just hanging out together isn’t about how many sites we see and boxes we check off. It’s about spending quality, low-stress, low-expectation time together appreciating each other. (Not what we do, but the way in which we do it.)
How can we slow our roll? Take what I want to do and make it about how I am? We can start by making ‘do’ the vehicle for ‘be.’ For example, if we want to be happy together on our long road trip, let’s start with that as our baseline. We’re happy if, maybe, we don’t have a packed schedule and we have time to get up slowly together. And maybe one day we want to challenge ourselves, then we do get up early and go for that peak ascent. But we always do ‘do’ with ‘be’ as the basis.
I’m not sure that always makes sense. I guess I’m thinking that it’s nice to see Old Faithful and take that selfie there. It’s even nicer if we’ve planned it together and we’re using the destination of Old Faithful as the means to draw our family together or work on some of our communication challenges as we plan our trip together.
For some more summer ideas, check out Katie Harris’ story about a road trip to SoCo, Leah Hanson’s story about hiking accessories and Theresa Baer’s story about trying a new summer challenge.
Happy trails, Scott
JULY 2023 • Volume 27, Issue 2
PUBLISHER
Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com
EDITOR
Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com
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Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com
ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR
Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com
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Susan Harting susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com
COVER PHOTO istock photo
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Theresa Baer, Liz Davis, Katie Harris
Kris Kodrich, Sarah Mowder-Wilkens
Lynn U. Nichols
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 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 constitute 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. ©2023 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.
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Middle to high school survival guide
THE TRANSITION FROM MIDDLE school to high school is a huge milestone for students. It is a time of excitement, growth, and new opportunities. However, it can also be a daunting experience for many students, with the change in environment, academic expectations, and social pressures.
Pre-fall preparation
WITH ALL THE CHANGES GOING into the fall of your freshman year, your mind might be spinning. This is why it might be helpful to have a game plan before that first week of school. Here are some tips from Poudre School District.
Develop good high school habits
ONE STEREOTYPICAL CHANGE that may seem daunting to incoming freshmen is the shift in academics. You may have heard rumors from current high schoolers about how classes are harder and coursework heavier. However, like many rumors, there is no context to internalize this yet as a fact and therefore it shouldn’t keep you up at night! Yes, schoolwork may present new challenges you have not faced before, but the magic is that, whether you see it or not, you are simultaneously evolving and growing to be ready to meet these challenges. And guess what? You are not alone.
Get involved in extracurricular activities
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES are an essential part of the high school experience. They provide opportunities to develop new skills, make new friends, and discover new passions.
When choosing extracurricular activities, consider your interests and goals. Choose activities that align with your passions and will allow you to develop new skills and knowledge.
How to cope with social pressures
HIGH SCHOOL CAN BE A challenging social environment, with peer pressure and social expectations playing a significant role in students’ lives. It is essential to develop coping strategies to navigate these social pressures and maintain a positive self-image.
One strategy is to surround yourself with positive influences, such as supportive friends and family members. It is also important to establish healthy boundaries and to say no to activities that don’t align with your values and goals.
Seek support and resources
HIGH SCHOOL CAN BE a challenging experience, so talk to a trusted friend, family member, or teacher, or seek counseling services from your school’s guidance office at any time. There are various types of resources available to help you at any time.
Embrace the next chapter
THE TRANSITION FROM middle school to high school can be a challenging experience, but it is also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. By understanding what to expect, developing good habits, and utilizing community resources, the journey will be all the more fun. Remember the adults around you have navigated this path before, so ask them for help and support and remember you are never alone.
8 | RMPARENT
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Outdoor activities to try this summer Horseback riding
A TRUE WESTERN EXPERIENCE for all ages, horseback riding within a few hours’ drive of NoCo include:
ESTES PARK
• Elkhorn Stables, www.horsebackestespark.com: guided 1-hour, 2-hour rides and private rides for ages 6+ and fun pony rides for little ones.
• Jackson Stables at YMCA of the Rockies, jacksonstables.com: guided 1-hour up to all-day trail rides into Rocky Mountain National Park and YMCA property for ages 5+ plus pony rides.
• National Park Gateway Stables, www.skhorses.com/national-parkgateway-stables: 10–30 minutes pony rides for ages 2–7 and ages 4+ can enjoy 2-hour up to full-day trail rides plus dinner rides.
• Sombrero Stables, www.sombrero.com: 30-minute, 1-hour and 2-hour ride options through Rocky Mountains for ages 6+.
LOVELAND
• Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch, www.sylvandale.com/riding-adventures: scenic trail rides, “chow-down” rides for groups, and arena rides for kids.
RED FEATHER LAKES
• Beaver Meadows Stables, beavermeadowsstables.com – scenic trail rides for ages 4+ into Roosevelt National Forest and pony rides for ages 2–6. Overnight and dinner rides also available.
Disc or Frisbee golf
THIS FUN OUTDOOR GAME for all abilities utilizes courses similar to golf courses that meander through parks and natural areas. You’ll need at least one disc per player. Visit udisc.com for rules, tips, score keeping, courses and more. Some local courses include:
BELLVUE/LAPORTE
• Golden Eagle, U.S. Hwy. Forest Service Road 100, Bellvue
• Cache la Poudre Disc Golf Course, 3511 W. County Road 54G, LaPorte
FORT COLLINS
• Aggie Greens Disc Golf, S. Overland Trail
• Edora Park, 1420 E. Stuart Street
• ULTRA, 2685 Busch Drive
GREELEY/EVANS
• The Outback, 1501 65th Avenue, GR
• Pioneer Park, 3701 Ponderosa Court, Evans
• University of Northern Colorado Course, starts north of Butler-Hancock and ends at Candelaria, GR
LOVELAND
• Mehaffey Park, 3350 W. 29th Street
WINDSOR
• Oxbow Disc Golf, 7025 Eastman Park Drive
Fishing
IF YOU HAVEN’T fished before, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) offers basic information on gear you’ll need, regulations, lessons and sites best suited for taking kids. A license is required for those 16 years and older and can be purchased online from CPW – see cpw.state. co.us/thingstodo/Pages/Fishing.aspx. Affordable gear is available at sporting goods stores. For beginners, a closed-face spincast rod and reel and barbless hooks are recommended, plus bait specific to the fish in the area or worms. A net is helpful but not required, however if keeping your catch, take a cooler to put fish in along with ice or river/lake water. Don’t forget personal floatation devices for children near any water source.
CPW site offers a map of “101+ Places to Take a Kid Fishing” describing sites. Some locations specific to Northern Colorado include:
BELLVUE/LAPORTE
• Watson Lake
FORT COLLINS
• Cache la Poudre River
• Horsetooth Reservoir
• Douglas Reservoir
• Riverbend Ponds Natural Area
• Seaman Reservoir
• Sheldon Lake at City Park
GREELEY
• Poudre Ponds
LOVELAND
• Big Thompson River
• Boyd Lake State Park
• Carter Lake
RED FEATHER LAKES
• Red Feather Lakes
WINDSOR
• Windsor Lake
10 | RMPARENT
BAER Family Fun
THERESA
RMPARENT | 11
Hiking Accessories—Essentials for the trail
Bringing the whole family on a hike – especially a longer one – means packing a much different assortment of gear than we did before we had the family. Sure, kids need special stuff, but there are also plenty of gadgets and gizmos to which we can introduce them, so they’ll enjoy the time outside more and want to go again.
Encourage kids to carry their own weight, if they’re of hikable ability (are able to walk unassisted). In general, kids ages 4 to 7 can carry 5 to 10 percent of their body weight in a wellfitting, kid-sized daypack. Kids 8 and above can carry 15 percent of their body weight, as long as they’re comfortable.
Hiking with children is an art. A good hike for kids is one that is engaging, fun, and kids assist in decisions such as distance, location, and when to break. Remember the whole point is having enough fun they want to do it again.
Mossy Oak Walkie Talkies
Buy from: Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply, 310 8th St
Remember, if the goal of a hike is to have enough fun for the kids to want to go again, walkie talkies are a must. Even if you don’t really need them, walkie talkies are fun and kids love them… plus, who knows, you might end up needing them! Having a set of these is also perfect if you have a set of children. More talking to each other; young hikers can stay connected and on their own adventures in no time. Features of this pair include a belt clip and Morse code. They take two 9 volt batteries and work up to 200 feet. Recommended for age 5 years and older.
Tasco 12x25 Essentials Binoculars
Buy from: Scheels
4755 Ronald Reagan Blvd, Johnstown
Trixie & Milo Pirate Multi-Tool
Buy from: Ace Hardware, 1001 E Harmony Rd
Unit B, Fort Collins
If you’re going to have a multi-tool, it might as well have a pirate theme. Remember, the best tool in an emergency is the one you have with you. The Pirate multi-tool is the coolest multi-tool that even your tween will like. It has seven different functions including types of screwdriver heads and more. It is light enough to carry or attach to any size of backpack. Older kids will be more useful and younger ones will feel more useful. Both being big parental wins.
Kids’ binoculars don’t need to be pastel colors. There are plenty of small, lightweight, and inexpensive options that kids can claim as their own and can keep as they get older. This pair is a great affordable pair of binoculars to keep within reach while enjoying the outdoors. These binoculars are waterproof and fogproof making them safe and easy to use in any type of weather. Plus, the rubber armor adds durability. They also come with a neck strap and carrying pouch.
12 | RMPARENT LEA HANSON Favorite Things
RMPARENT | 13
Summer in Southern Colorado
AS FAR AS SUMMER ROAD TRIPS GO, there aren’t many that can top a trip to southern Colorado. An inviting “sunny and 75” climate combined with gorgeous scenery in every direction makes this area of the state our top pick for a July getaway.
Day 1:
The longest stretch of your trip will be the initial drive—a 6.5 hour stretch to the little mountain town of Ouray. Known for its hot springs, hiking, and cute downtown, this locale made our list thanks to one hike in particular. The Lower Cascade Falls Trail is a family-friendly .2 mile stream-side walk to a lovely waterfall which typically runs throughout the season. To learn more about the area visit www.cityofouray.com/city_offices/city_resources/ cascade_waterfalls.php. After your hike, take a dip in the Ouray Hot Springs. A shallow pool with temps ranging from 82 to 92 degrees makes this one of our favorite hot springs for families. Visit www.ourayhotsprings.com for hours and pricing.
Day 3:
Continue south to Silverton, where the whole family can experience mining life firsthand. We recommend the Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour, a 1/3-mile tour into a 150-year-old gold mine. Each $30/ adult or $15/kid mine tour ticket includes a mine train ride along with gold and silver panning, and children 4 and under are free. Tours depart every hour from 10am-4pm. For more information on the history of the mine visit www.minetour.com/index.html.
Day 3/4:
On day two you’ll take the scenic one hour drive to neighboring Telluride, home to a plethora of summer outdoor activities. Older kids will enjoy a 30 minute inner tube ride through downtown on the San Miguel River (tubes can be purchased at the local Ace Hardware), or putting their skills to the test at the local bike park (https://bit.ly/441JPXk), while younger kids will enjoy the many familyfriendly hiking trails (https:// bit.ly/3N7oGUI), lakes to take a dip in https://bit. ly/3NBhjGx), and views from the gondola (www. telluride.com/discover/ the-gondola/).
Day 2:
On the afternoon of day three, we suggest embarking on a fabulous family adventure to Durango via the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This 3.5-hour scenic trip leaves Silverton at 2:45pm and requires advance reservations. Once in Durango, options include staying in town for the night and riding the train back to Silverton the following morning or shuttling back to Silverton that same evening through the railroad company. Should you choose to remain in Durango overnight, the train station is conveniently situated downtown and in walking distance from shopping, lodging and restaurants. The train back to Silverton departs at 9am the following morning and must be booked separately. For reservations visit www. durangotrain.com/excursions/round-trip-silverton-train-tour/.
14 | RMPARENT KATIE HARRIS Family Travels
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Makingthe most of summer getaways
U Nichols
SUMMER IS LIKE A giant reset button we get to push on family life. The freedom of it is intoxicating, even when work goes on as usual for parents. For kids, it’s a break from the confining schedule of the school year and the social and academic pressures that it can bring. As a family, it’s a golden opportunity to play and connect with each other, outside of the walls and demands of our own homes. If you have a few getaways or special events planned this summer, here are some tips to make the most of them.
Keep the focus on p-l-a-y
Make the goal of your family
vacation to simply relax and be together. If you plan a road trip to a new part of the state or country, go ahead and research what you want to do and see, but at the same time try not to get too caught up into making sure you do it all. Too many expectations can mean stress and pressure to hit set timelines, and too much stress can kill the playful mood of your vacation. Playing with your kids sends the message that they are likeable human beings and that you enjoy being with them.
A great option is to plan a true getaway, where you have plenty of time to relax and simply be
together. Maybe it’s camping in a national park for a few days or spending a week in a cabin in the woods where all you have to really worry about is walking to a nearby lake or woods to explore or collect wood to build a fire in the evening. Having non-rushed time together lets you give your full attention to your kids—which means more to them then just about anything.
“Family vacations are so important. They are built-in quality time when you don’t have to worry about work or chores and you can solely focus on your kids, spending time playing, building memories and feeling joy,” says Kristy
18 | RMPARENT
Lynn
Play and connect as a family
Coventry, MA, LPCC with Sunbound Therapy based in Fort Collins, CO who helps parents and families connect.
Target a behavior or belief and gently work on it
You know your kids well. You know what they are good at and where they could improve. Maybe your son needs to build social skills to make more friends, maybe your young daughter struggles with separation anxiety during the school year. Summer break is a great time to gently steer your kids in a new and more positive direction. When
you are aware of what they need, you can read about or create ways to encourage them to grow in a natural, encouraging way.
“A child I work with has challenging behaviors where he would act out for attention. Yet after a family vacation, his parents saw decreases in his behavior,” Coventry says. “Uninterrupted time together helps kids feel grounded in themselves. It helps them feel valued and less overwhelmed by life.”
Build in daily extras
Even if you don’t have plans to take a trip this summer, make the summer fun and meaningful by doing something out of the ordinary, like camping in your backyard and telling stories of times when you were your kids’ ages, or making smores around a backyard firepit.
What did you love to do when you were a child? Start there when coming up with ideas. Maybe it was playing flashlight tag in the neighborhood, or volleyball at the beach.
Whenever you can, steal a minute or two of uninterrupted quality time with your kids where you stop what you are doing and give them your full attention. When you do so, you are silently saying ‘I value you. I respect you.’ These simple devoted moments often mean more than any words you could say.
Make family time sacred
Forming habits or doing set activities together helps define your family and create strong family
bonds. Consider special summertime outings you can do each summer. It can be super simple, but there’s power in the repetition of it. Maybe you make it a goal to go to the drive-in a few times each summer. Or maybe you are a family that enjoys hiking, so you shoot for an epic hike every summer, like a 14er. Or, maybe you all try rollerblading on the bike path together, or ride your bikes to the park every Saturday then go out for ice cream. It can be anything, as long as you all enjoy it and it builds positive feelings.
“Family activities help kids develop a sense of identity by helping them define their skills and interests,” Coventry says. “When you have consistency in your schedule, kids know what to expect and they have something to look forward to. Activities can be a tool to help families connect.”
Even if your preteen wants to opt out, make it known that family time is sacred and expected – not in place of their friend time but alongside it. Send the message, ‘You are a part of this family and
we want you here.’ If they feel grumpy and would rather be doing something else, validate their feelings, but let them know that some level of family time is expected.
Let your kids lead
When coming up with summertime getaway or special event ideas, let your kids share their wishes and honor them as best you can. It helps keep the excitement for the adventure alive, and makes for a likely more positive and successful experience.
“So often in life choices are made for kids, so giving them choices and letting them lead is a huge way to help them feel empowered and learn life skills,” Coventry says.
Let kids take turns choosing what movie you watch or game you play. Better yet, have them make up a game and follow along, letting them direct what you do. When planning a road trip, let your older kids help you navigate or plan the fast food or picnic pit stops. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy the sense of family connection that summertime brings.
RMPARENT | 19
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Staff, alumni and families bid farewell to Madison School
CURRENT AND FORMER
STAFF , students, families and community members bid a fond farewell to the old Madison Elementary School building, and excitedly welcomed the brand new James Madison STEAM Academy!
Past and current Madison Elementary staff, families and students filled the old, carpeted gym to share memories about their time in the round building and to learn about Madison’s transformation into the James Madison STEAM Academy, a PK-8 school. Thanks to the voters of Greeley and Evans, the 2019 Bond Issue has allowed for the school to be rebuilt on the site of the existing school.
Following a brief ceremony, staff, families and visitors toured both the old and new buildings. The
new building is designed to serve as a science, technology, engineering, art, and math space for the Eagles.
The removal of the old Madison building will begin soon. The new building will open in August as the James Madison STEAM Academy.
GOVERNOR SIGNS TWO BILLS AT PRAIRIE HEIGHTS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Prairie Heights Middle School hosted Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera and Representative Mary Young during a special bill signing session on Monday.
The bills signed support families and children
living with deafness and blindness, and the “Stop the Bleed” program supports student safety in schools. Students got a front row seat to the bills being signed by Polis, and asked questions about the process. A few students even walked away with the signing pens!
22 | RMPARENT School District News: Greeley-Evans D6
KindConnect has been bringing kindness to Larimer County children since 2019 and we are happy to share that our KindConnect Program has recently expanded to benefit children in need in Weld County! All donations received through KindConnect are used within the county they were donated in.
SCAN QR TO LEARN MORE, BECOME A DONOR OR DELIVERY DRIVER.
SCAN HERE
RMPARENT | 23
Project SEARCH and Police Services create path for others
good at and, importantly, what they don’t like to do.
During the 2022-23 school year, RussoSegelhorst interned with Columbine’s Poudre Infusion Therapy as an administrative assistant. Then, thanks to School Resource Officer Dexter Rowe and his colleagues, her eyes were opened to a never-before-offered opportunity at Fort Collins Police Services (FCPS).
Department, the umbrella over Project SEARCH.
Vogt, Rowe and Project SEARCH Coordinator Lora Kitchens sat with Amy in a room at police headquarters in Fort Collins one day in April. They talked about her success – in life and work – and celebrated the new partnership that Amy and Rowe forged together, creating opportunity for future Project SEARCH students.
AMY RUSSOSEGELHORST IS on top of the world, breaking new ground in the community.
Adopted at age 7, she was quiet and all smiles. She was also fascinated by the world of law enforcement as a child.
Fast forward, past her favorite forensics class in school and graduation from Poudre High School, and Russo-Segelhorst is about to live her dream.
This spring, the now21-year-old graduated from Poudre School District’s Project SEARCH. This program enables young adults with disabilities to explore careers and get on-thejob training. Through internships with the likes of Columbine Health Systems and Banner Health, students, ages 18-21, practice skills, get a feel for what they are
As part of the first-ever FCPS-Project SEARCH internship, RussoSegelhorst experienced the calm-and-dimly lit intensity of the 911 dispatch center. She watched businesses with liquor licenses be evaluated for compliance, scanned and checked police records for accuracy, and learned how things are organized in the evidence room. “It’s bigger than I thought,” she said.
Asked what the FCPS team was like, she said: “People at the police department are nice and welcoming,” very helpful. Her face framed by long dark hair and her eyes by gold-rimmed glasses, Russo-Segelhorst smiled at this thought.
“To me, Amy’s kind of a trailblazer,” said Aaron Vogt, assistant director of PSD’s Integrated Services
Always humble, Rowe was quick to credit a PSD parent and advocate for students with disabilities with the idea of starting internships at public safety agencies.
Rowe’s dream is to grow the internship program beyond the police department to include other law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services agencies, and even to city and county departments.
Vogt said internships like those at FCPS, Columbine and Banner help remove barriers so people with disabilities can advocate for themselves. This, he said of RussoSegelhorst’s internship, “is an illustration of how advocacy really works.”
And that part about her living her childhood dream?
Rowe said FCPS has taken steps to create a permanent position for Russo-Segelhorst, possibly in Records or Evidence.
24 | RMPARENT School District News: Poudre
RMPARENT | 25 (970) 224-5500 | 421 Stover Street, Fort Collins trozaninsurance.com Our Team partners with you to make understanding your Medicare options as easy as possible. Call today! Amy Kilber and Lisa Wentz-Kinnison, LICENSED INDEPENDENT AGENTS Your partners in Medicare • Medicare Advantage • Medigap/Supplement • Part D (prescription drug plan) • Dental, Vision and Hearing plans • Hospital Indemnity • International Travel • Life Insurance • Final Expense .com visit rmparent magazine online for: community news school lunch menus family activities events calendar
Erin Sanfeliz – Loveland High School – Class of 1995
I submerged myself in the social life of high school and deeply treasure those memories. I would say my friends are my best memories from high school.
4. What was your biggest challenge during school?
Balancing being a teenager and wanting to have fun, with the responsibilities that came with schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and employment.
5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known? I would tell myself to slow down, enjoy being a kid/teenager!
during high school.
Becky Langford: I never thought history could be fun, she showed me it could.
Gary Light and the DECA marketing club taught me about charisma and how to showcase yourself in a professional setting.
Ms. Connie Einfalt was such an inspiration to me during KLHS, and my art classes when it was hard to let go of my Type A personality and just let the creative juices flow.
8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?
1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?
My name is Erin (Schenck) Sanfeliz. I started my TSD school career at Centennial Elementary K-6th grade. I went to Bill Reed Jr. High School for 7th and 8th grade. I graduated from Loveland High School in 1995. This happened to be LHS’s Centennial year.
2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?
I attended Colorado State University (GO RAMS!) and graduated in 1999 with a degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition.
After graduation I took a brief hiatus for a year and then attended a Dietetic Internship at University of Michigan. After graduating from this program, I returned to my beloved home state of Colorado (also had a little something to do with a handsome dude!). I have been a registered dietitian for just over 20 years working in skilled nursing facilities and most recently for the past 13 years in acute care at Banner McKee Medical Center.
My proudest accomplishment is being a Mom; while I don’t always rock it, I always try really hard! And I love my kids fiercely!
3. What is your best memory of school?
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” – Ferris Bueller
6. What advice would you give to students who are in school now? The same thing I want my kids to know. Have the time of your life, study hard, play hard and ALWAYS BE KIND! You never know what someone is struggling with.
7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it. I could not narrow it down to one person, so here is a short list and a quick recap of how each inspired me
I don’t think I would change anything specifically. I think I would instead wave a magic wand to go back to high school in 1995 for one more day!
9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now? I loved science always, so I would say that may have guided me toward my current career.
10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future? I have dabbled in the science/healthcare world all of my adulthood so far. I would like to explore my artsy and creative side again. I always enjoyed my art classes in high school from drawing to sculpture, and jewelry.
26 | RMPARENT School District News: Thompson
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28 | RMPARENT DO YOU HAVE A PROGRAM OR ACTIVITY YOU’D LIKE TO ADVERTISE? FOR BUSINESSES IN FORT COLLINS, CONTACT: Greg at 970-689-6832 • greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com FOR BUSINESSES IN GREELEY, LOVELAND, WINDSOR, ESTES PARK AND OTHERS, CONTACT: Susan at 970-301-3320 • susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com Program DIRECTORY BYCATEGORY• PAGE16 ALPHABETICAL•PAGE18 Program & Activity August 2018 • rmparent.com Guide YOuth List of ADVERTISERS PAGE46 Back-to-school updates PAGE 10 SCHOOL calendars PAGE44 Reach Thousands of Parents with RMParent’s Program & Activity Series Distributes throughout inSchoolsnorthern Colorado! Find out how we can help your business! COME VISIT US! For more information: www.mylibrary.us/linc 501 8th Ave, Greeley
KindConnect has been bringing kindness to Larimer County children since 2019 and we are happy to share that our KindConnect Program has recently expanded to benefit children in need in Weld County! All donations received through KindConnect are used within the county they were donated in. SCAN QR TO LEARN MORE, BECOME A DONOR OR DELIVERY DRIVER.
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Free bus rides, life jackets plus challenges and emergency prep
other distractions.
Bill and Melissa O’Melia started Drennan’s Dreams Foundation in honor of their son, Drennan, who tragically drown at 12 years old despite being an accomplished swimmer. They hope to work with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to install more stations around the state. For more information, visit drennensdreams.org.
RIDE BUSES FOR FREE
Through August 31, there is no charge to ride City of Greeley buses as part of the state’s Zero Fare program (coloradotransit. com/resources/zerofare-program.) This is applicable to all routes including the Poudre Express connecting Greeley, Windsor and Fort Collins. For added convenience and to help further riders’ commitment to reduce their carbon footprint, buses are equipped with bike racks. Students on summer break will also find it useful with bus stops conveniently located near recreational areas like parks, recreation centers, pools and splash parks. Visit greeleyevanstransit.com for route information.
Additional Zero Fare program participants in northern Colorado include the Town of Estes Park and Fort
Collins’ Transfort, which do not charge fare year round.
LIFE JACKET LOANER STATION AT BOYD LAKE
To keep people safe this summer, the Drennan’s Dreams Foundation has installed a Life Jacket Loaner Station at Boyd Lake in Loveland. Visitors can choose from different-sized life jackets in the cabinet to borrow and use for a day at the lake. Signage shows how to properly fit and wear the life jackets and offers a QR code to quickly access information on water safety procedures to prevent drowning. Also available are free Water Watcher cards on lanyards to be “worn by the designated adult who is responsible for supervision of the kids” according to the foundation’s website, which also recommends that duty should be shared and alternated every 15–30 minutes to avoid any
HEALTHY KIDS SUMMER CHALLENGE
The UCHealth Healthy Kids
Summer Challenge is a free program with the goal of helping families be more active together, have less screen time, and practice the 5210+ healthy habits together during the summer months (eating 5 servings of fruits/vegetables, having 2 hours or less of screen time, getting at least 1 hour of exercise, drinking 0 sugary drinks, and getting 9 or more hours of sleep each day.) Upon registering for the Challenge, you’ll receive a checklist of activities to do as a family. Together, your family will complete as many activities as possible. This checklist also serves as entry into three free private Family Swim Nights–in Loveland on Thursday, July 13; Greeley on Friday, July 21 and Fort Collins on Saturday, July 29. Learn more and
register to participate at healthykidsclub.org.
NEW LARIMER COUNTY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS GUIDE
The Larimer County Office of Emergency Management recently updated its Emergency Preparedness Guide. The Guide provides information on natural and human-related hazards in Larimer County and how to be ready for such emergencies. Specific topics include “Understanding alerts, warnings, and evacuations; Gaining awareness of the hazards within Larimer County; Preparing for you and your family, pets and livestock; Building community resilience; and Disaster supply kit planning.”
Look for the document online at www.larimer. gov/sites/default/files/ uploads/2023/em_prep_ guide_final_04.26.2023.pdf or email OEM_Community_ Outreach@larimer.org to request a printed copy.
30 | RMPARENT
BAER Community News
THERESA
RMPARENT | 31 4650 ROYAL VISTA CIRCLE WINDSOR, CO 80528 1931 65TH AVE, SUITE C GREELEY, CO 80634 Two convenient locations to help serve the NoCo community ~ Learn more at: summitspeechteam.com COMMUNITY. GROWTH. COMPASSION.
Community Calendar
July events
FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS
THROUGH JULY 4
Greeley Stampede
Parade, concerts, rodeos, carnival, kids activities, golf tournament and much more! Island Grove Event Center, GR. www.greeleystampede.org
THROUGH AUGUST 23
One Sweet Summer Event Series
Live music concerts on Wednesdays, kids’ days, fitness classes, ice cream festival, more. Foundry Plaza, downtown LV downtownloveland.org/ onesweetsummer
FRIDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 15
Greeley Friday Fest
Free live music, fire spinners bubbles, balloons, more. 9th Street Plaza, downtown GR. www.greeleydowntown.com/ special-events/friday-fest
FRIDAY, JULY 21
Summer Shindig with Reckless Kelly
Live music from Grammy® award winning band, beers from local craft breweries, food trucks, more. Foundry
Plaza, downtown LV. downtownloveland.org/ summer-shindig
JULY 22 THROUGH 31
Weld County Fair
105th annual event with calves, cars, BBQ, rodeo and more!
Island Grove Park, GR. www.weldcountyfair.com
SUNDAY, JULY 30
44th Annual Greeley Arts Picnic Features 175+ artists/ crafters from across the country. Lincoln Park, GR. www. greeleygov.com/ greeley-calendar
ENTERTAINMENT
TUESDAYS, THROUGH JULY 25 Free Family Summer Movies
Free, family movies including The Muppets: Treasure Island, The Goonies, and Space Jam. Rialto Theatre, LV. www.rialtotheatercenter. org/kids-summer-fun
WEDNESDAYS, THROUGH JULY 26
Lagoon Summer Concert Series
Grab blankets/chairs and enjoy live music and food trucks. CSU Lagoon, FC. lagoonseries.com
THROUGH JULY 28
Loveland Movies in the Park Outdoor movies, weather permitting. Bring blankets, chairs and picnics (no alcohol/glass). Various LV parks. lovgov.org/PRevents
FRIDAYS, THROUGH JULY 28
Flashback Friday Movies
See classics like A League of Their Own, Monty Python & The Holy Grail. Rialto Theatre, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org/ flashback-fridays
THURSDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 10
Family FunPlex Concert Series
Bring picnic dinner and chairs/blankets for family-friendly live music. Family FunPlex outdoor amphitheater, GR. greeleyrec. com/the-family-funplexconcert-series-is-back
THURSDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 17
Windsor Summer Concert Series
Live music and food trucks. Boardwalk Park, WS. recreationliveshere.com/219/ Summer-Concert-Series
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 21
Lyric Outdoor Movies
Enjoy classic blockbusters to indie gems under the stars. The Lyric, FC. www.lyriccinema.com/ outdoor-movies
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 23
Live at The Gardens Summer Concert Series
Old Crow Medicine Show; Pink Martini; Ricky Skaggs with Kentucky Thunder; WAR. The Gardens on Spring Creek, FC. www.fcgov.com/gardens/ concerts
THURSDAYS, JULY 6, 13
Children’s Summer Series
Free outdoor family entertainment. Lincoln Center lawn, FC. www.lctix.com
32 | RMPARENT
THERESA BAER
THURSDAYS, JULY 6 THROUGH 27
Loveland Summer Concerts
Free family fun, live music, food and community. Foote Lagoon Amphitheater, LV. www.rialtotheatercenter.org/ loveland-summer-concerts
FRIDAY, JULY 7
Live Music with The States Duo Bluegrass, western, country, folk, and soft-rock. Global Village Museum, FC. www.globalvillagemuseum.org
Fort Collins Summer Concert
Series: Veronica May
Bring lawn chairs and enjoy music while watching the sunset behind Horsetooth. Fort Collins Senior Center, FC. www.fcgov.com/events
JULY 7, 21, AUGUST 4, SEPTEMBER 3
Windsor Movies in the Park
Bring your lawn chairs for free outdoor shows. Various parks, WS. www.recreationliveshere. com/217/Movies-in-the-Park
SATURDAY, JULY 8
Campfire at Coyote Ridge: Owls & Bats
One-mile hike to cabin for stories and s’mores. Coyote Ridge Natural Area Cabin, FC. www.fcgov.com/events
FRIDAY, JULY 14
Campfire at Nix - Semana de Conservación Latina/Latino Conservation Week
Fogata en NIX para la Semana de Conservación Latin. Oficina de Áreas Naturales, FC. www.fcgov.com/events
JULY 16 THROUGH 19
Big Balloon Build Colorado Immersive wonderland of balloons and STEAM activities to benefit Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy. AIMS Welcome Center Ballroom, GR. greeleygov.com/ greeley-calendar
JULY 21 THROUGH 23
Seussical the Musical Jr. The Stampede Troupe brings Dr. Seuss characters to life. Union Colony Civic Center, Hensel Phelps Theater, GR. www.ucstars.showare.com
SATURDAY, JULY 22
Astronomy & Skygazing: Sounds of the Night Brief, family-friendly astronomy activity followed by skygazing. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events
FRIDAY, JULY 28
Rock Garden Concert: Songwriters in the Round Music from Liz Barnez, Mike Finders, John Magnie & Angie Stevens, food and fun benefiting The Vegetable Connection. www.FortCollinsNursery.com
SATURDAY, JULY 29
Skygazing
Northern Colorado Astronomical Society volunteers provide telescopes and share knowledge of stars, planets, galaxies, etc. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events
ACTIVE-ITIES
THROUGH AUGUST 10
Loveland Parks & Recreation Mobile Recreation Trailer
Fun, free non-competitive sport and rec activities for youth/families. Various LV parks. lovgov.org/PRevents
WEDNESDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 9
Family Nights at Discovery Bay Families enjoy evening hours at the outdoor waterpark. Discovery Bay Waterpark, GR. greeleyrec.com/events
THURSDAYS, THROUGH AUGUST 10
Wibit Obstacle Course at Centennial Pool
Test your ninja skills on the Wibit inflatable obstacle course. Centennial Pool, GR. www.greeleyrec.com/events
THROUGH AUGUST
Healthy Kids Run Series
Three in-person runs and five on-your-own runs. FC, GR, LV. www.uchealth.org/ services/community-health/ healthy-kids/run-series
TUESDAY, JULY 4
Firecracker 5K
Walk, jog, or run in the Citizen’s 5K, Elite 5K, and Kids 1-mile races. City Park, FC. www.firekracker5k.com
Loveland Liberty 5K
Runners/walkers participate to support several local Veterans groups
Fairgrounds Park, LV. www.sweetheartcityracing. com/events/loveland-liberty
FRIDAY, JULY 7
Family Campout
Bring your tents, sleeping bags, etc. for fishing, paddle boats, camp fire, movie plus dinner, light breakfast. Boardwalk Park, WS. recreationliveshere.com/ Calendar
Additional programs available through local recreation departments:
Estes Park: https://evrpd. colorado.gov/recreation
Fort Collins: www.fcgov.com/ recreation
Greeley: https://greeleyrec.com
Loveland: www.LovGov.org/ ActivityGuide
Windsor: www.recreation liveshere.com/160/ Activity-Guide
RMPARENT | 33
INDEPENDENCE DAY Festivities!
TUESDAY, JULY 4
Estes Park The Big Bang! Concert
Featuring Face Vocal Band. Estes Park Event Center, EP. www.bigbangconcert.com
Fort Collins 4th of July Celebration
Golf tournament, Firecracker
5K, parade along Mountain Avenue (10am), baseball games, trolley rides (noon–5pm), live music/food truck rally (3–9:30pm), and fireworks (9:35pm). City Park, FC. fcgov.com/july4th
Greeley Independence Day Parade & Fireworks Parade (9am), sheep stampedes, concerts throughout, demolition derby (2pm), and extreme raptors. Island Grove Regional Park, GR. www.greeleystampede.org
Loveland July 4th Festival Kids Zone Play Area, vendor booths, live music, beer garden, cornhole tournament, children’s bike parade, and fireworks over Lake Loveland (9:15pm.) North Lake Park, LV. www.lovgov.org
Timnath 4th of July
Celebration
Fun family activities and live music (5pm) and fireworks (9:30pm.) Timnath Reservoir. www.timnath.org/4th-ofjuly-celebration
Wellington Fourth of July
Pancake breakfast (7am), parade (10am), festival with car show, vendors, food trucks, music and kids’ activities (11am) and fireworks (9:30pm.)
Wellington Community Park, Wellington. www. wellingtoncolorado.gov/528/ Fourth-of-July
Windsor Independence Day
Non-motorized boating on Windsor Lake (11am–7pm), live music by 101st Army Band and (5:30pm) and fireworks (9:15pm). Boardwalk Park, WS. www.recreationliveshere. com/216/July-4th-Activities
34 | RMPARENT
AUGUST 5TH
SEPTEMBER 16TH
CONCOURS DE PROMENADE
SATURDAY, AUGUST 5TH | 10AM - 3PM | MAIN PLAZA
A cars and coffee festival you won’t want to miss! Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience as we join forces with Northern Colorado Cars & Coffee to bring you an extraordinary day with the most exquisite cars in town. Prepare to be captivated by thrilling competitions, exhilarating games and giveaways, all while enjoying exclusive discounts at your favorite stores and restaurants. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.
THE WILD ZONE AT WILD WONDERFUL WEEKEND
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TH | 1PM - 5PM | MAIN PLAZA
Celebrating Colorado’s first wildlife habitat community - Centerra! Unleash your wild side and explore Colorado’s local ecosystems. Discover the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices while getting hands-on with animals, nature exhibits, crafts, obstacle courses, and a rock wall. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.
i25 & HWY 34 | Loveland, CO
ThePromenadeShopsAtCenterra.com
Scan the QR code to discover our upcoming events.
RMPARENT | 35
Moving into adulthood—Where did the babies go?
I SELECT A COUPLE OF greeting cards with some cute wolves and bears and write congratulatory notes to my graduating daughters – Kalia from Colorado State University and Bianka from Poudre High School.
Besides the obligatory “Congratulations!” and “You did it!” I write a few inspirational phrases like “Soar High” and “Aim for the Stars.”
Satisfied, I pause and consider, “How did this happen? When did my baby girls become adults?”
It seemed like just a month ago when an aunt came out of a Nicaraguan hospital’s delivery room (fathers weren’t allowed) and handed me a tiny, crying Kalia. A few days later (or so it seemed), I witnessed Bianka’s delivery at Poudre Valley Hospital, amazed not only at the miracle of birth but that the nurses hadn’t tossed me and my video camera out.
The journey of 22 years (18 for the fledgling) was at times maddening and worrying (everything from coughing fits in the wee hours or falling off skateboards and breaking bones) but also loving and rewarding (honors, scholarships, distinctions galore).
I never won any parentof-the-year awards – too many concerts with the girls, festivals, overseas adventures, exhausting hikes, Packer bars, craft breweries,
and meals at their favorite Panda Express and Chickfil-A among my scorecard deductions. But we’ve had plenty of laughs and good times over the years. We put 300,000 miles on our Ford Focus and Kia Rondo as we explored national parks and neighborhood playgrounds. We placed the girls in swimming, cheerleading, horseback riding, and skiing/snowboarding lessons, applauded them playing clarinet and viola in school orchestras and performing in musicals and choirs and science exhibitions, cheered for their volleyball, softball and track teams, and yes, even a middle school football team for a few days (I knew Kalia was ready to give it up when she crawled off the field, exhausted, after the first full-contact practice).
So, in May, when both Kalia and Bianka crossed
the stage at Moby Arena a week apart, it was time to reflect upon the job we did in raising the girls. I’m just not sure how much credit we deserve.
Time and time again, the girls demonstrated resiliency amid academic and personal challenges. Theirs is the generation that grew up with social media. They had to deal with the added pressures associated with living their lives online. Society has thrown a lot at them.
And then, of course, the pandemic scorched their lives.
Their first year of college and high school was sadly interrupted by the world of virtual learning. Kalia was forced out of the residence hall and her first year of independent living while Bianka was forced out of her high school wonder years. As the pandemic
softened with vaccines, masks, and social distancing, they still had to deal with lost or unformed friendships. It was only as seniors that their reality became “normal” again.
Through it all, the girls persevered and somehow came out all right. We offered encouragement and parental advice along the way, of course, but they are the real heroes. As Kalia enjoys her first full-time job in her biology career and Bianka gets ready go to college in Oregon to pursue computer science, I realize they did most of the work.
We just trusted them to do the right thing.
Now, we trust they will soon move out of the house!
Kris Kodrich
36 | RMPARENT
Time out
teaches journalism at Colorado State University.
KRIS KODRICH
RMPARENT | 37 GOALAC.ORG 1-877-PRO-GOAL PLAY SPORTS WITH YOUR LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL WHILE ATTENDING GOAL!