September RM Parent

SEPTEMBER 2014 • RMPARENT.COM

Safe Routes TO SCHOOL

Sustainable

LIVING FAIR

Balancing

FALL ACTIVITIES

Spectator

SPORTS

Skin

RASHES PLUS

SPECIAL SECTION:

LOCAL FOOD AND FARM GUIDE

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SEPTEMBER 2014

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

Sustainably yours...it matters to me

FIRST YEARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 A rash of rashes!—most will disappear on their own in babies and toddlers

Special Section AFTER THE BELL Explore the possibilities for this fall and see what programs these providers have for your families

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Hooray for young athletes—catch a local game this fall and support local students

ADVERTISI NG SUPPLEME NT

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . . 12

LOCAL FOOD AND FARM

A day at the Sustainable Living Fair—find healthy solutions and support for your family

GIVE ME A BREAK . . . . . . . . 14 Back to daily routines—time to reorganize and create some structure

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . 16 Support for parents, teens needed for marijuana prevention coalition, emergency help arrives faster, take precautions against tularemia

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 4 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Courage among cockroaches—twenty-seven roll models teach Pura Vida

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 News and notes from the summer and coming year, choir performs at convention, teachers connect at summer institute, Moonlighting Teachers returns to the Rialto Theater, Whole foods supports school garden

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Calendar of events, PSD 2013 Annual Sustainability Report available, PSD students continue to top peers statewide on TCAP tests

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Thousands attend School Kickoff Community Celebration, District 6 TCAP math scores show marked improvement, Wayne Eads named sole finalist for interim superintendent

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Features 18 FINDING BALANCE With the start of school, kids suddenly find their days overstuffed. While all this activity is exciting, it can also be stressful. After the hype wears down and life finds a rhythm, take time to gauge your kids’ stress levels. Support them in finding a healthy balance and learning ways to cope during stressful times.

20 WALK AND ROLL Parents make decisions every day intended to positively impact the health and well being of their children, but they don’t always consider transportation choices among them. Perhaps they should, because there’s a proven link between how children get to school and their health and academic success.

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perspective Sustainably yours

SEPTEMBER 2014 • Volume 19, Issue 4

It matters to me...

PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

have a copy of Saint Exupery’s timeless classic The Little Prince in the bookshelves next to my desk. When I saw the story about the coming Sustainable Living Fair, and then I read the Poudre School District Sustainability Report notice, I thought of one of my favorite little quotes: “It’s a question of discipline,” the little prince told me later on. “When you’ve finished washing and dressing each morning, you must tend your planet.” He was talking about pulling up baobab trees when they were young so that they wouldn’t take over his little planet, but I’m sure there’s a metaphor and a message in there too.

We fill our recycle trash bin every time, it seems, and we compost when it’s not freezing out. We try to repurpose things from our house... an old chair becomes a structure for peas to grow on...and on and on like you do. I remember seeing Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, speak at the Sustainable Living Fair several years ago. As I remember it (and that’s a big heads up to take this with a grain of salt), he detailed all the things Patagonia was doing with its product line to reduce its footprint on the Earth, such as making clothing out of recycled plastic bottles and using only organic cotton, which at that time was hard to source. He also described causes they were involved in, such as fighting dam construction on wild rivers in southern Chile. He was interesting because he wasn’t puffing up about doing these things. He was just describing. And then he ended with the blunt assessment that all their actions probably didn’t matter in the bigger scheme of things, anyway.

I had to think about that for a bit...he was adamant that they were doing the right thing and he was equally realistic that their actions, though thoughtful and noble, were just that proverbial drop in the bucket.

But oddly, his message was not one of despair...

So now, when I drop that can in recycle, when I ride my bike instead of driving, when I sweep my drive instead of hosing it down, I accept that it doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things, but it’s important to me because I’m feeling that I’m showing respect for this little planet that we live on and I’m doing my small bit to pull up baobabs. Whether it really matters or not, I’m building a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to be here for my short time on our little blue-green planet.

Thanks, Scott

EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com

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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, Richard Keller, Kim Lipker, Lynn Nichols, Kim Sharpe

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80521 Voice 221-9210 Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not consitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2014 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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first years

A rash of rashes!

Most will disappear on their own in babies and toddlers LY NN U. NICHOLS

Y

oung kids get weird rashes. If you haven’t lived through newborn rash, diaper rash, ring worm or molloscum, count yourself lucky. Babies, toddlers and preschoolers get more rashes than adults because their immune systems are more susceptible to viruses, and behind many a rash lives a virus.

Luckily most rashes are temporary and go away with simple treatments.

NEWBORN RASH Let’s start with the very youngest. Did you know half of all newborns come with a splotchy rash? It’s technically called erythema toxicum and shows up in two to five days after birth. It looks like a red area with small white or yellow bumps. It can be anywhere, but doesn’t show on hands or feet. No one knows what the source is, and there is no treatment. It will go away usually within a few weeks or a month.

AN ADD-ON TO THE COMMON COLD Sometimes, babies and toddlers get a rash with a cold virus. Viral rashes come in different shapes and sizes, but often they are red, blotchy spots that are sometimes itchy. They can come on quickly, but tend to only last a few days.

They’re not usually serious even though they can look it.

BABY ECZEMA Babies can get eczema, a skin condition that strikes any age but is more common in children. It’s described as ‘an itch that rashes’ and often shows up on babies’ cheeks as red or yellow crusty patches. Toddlers are also prone to it and classically get it in the folds of the elbows, knees and neck. Eczema is prevalent in our dry climate. Pediatricians advise patients to use moisturizer and to cleanse with just water, 8

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not soap. For treatment, try overthe-counter hydrocortisone cream. A two-week treatment of 0.5-1.0 percent cream once each day is safe for infants.

Avoid other non-steroid creams for children under 2.

DIAPER RASH What parent hasn’t seen diaper rash?

Diaper rash is caused by a rubbing diaper, chemicals in the diaper absorbent, bacteria, or wet urine or stool against the skin. Especially watch for a rash caused by a yeast infection after a round of antibiotics. It will be an extra bright, beefy red with some pustules. Since yeast is a fungus, you’ll need to treat it with an antifungal; over-the-counter varieties are effective, but check with your doctor first. For simple diaper rash, zinc oxide creams work well. Use one with a high concentration—such as 40 percent—to create a barrier and help the chafed, raw skin heal.

RING WORM The dreaded ringworm: raised, red, scaly and with a distinct circular edge.

Ringworm is common in childhood and is caused by a fungus, not a worm.

It’s contagious and can be passed from people and animals. The trick with ringworm is catching it early and treating it with an over-the-counter anti-fungal cream, like miconazole or clotrimazole. Be diligent and it should go away in two to four weeks.

MOLLOSCUM Here’s one many parents have never heard of—molloscum—another unfriendly rash. Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a virus. It is often a grouping of painless, white, firm, small growths that appear on the face, body, buttocks and genitalia. They look similar to white heads. Again, it is common in childhood—more with boys—and is contagious. It can be hard to get rid of, so be diligent. Try tea tree oil for mild cases, or simply wait it out. It often goes away on its own. More invasive treatments involve scraping the lesions or cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen) in a doctor’s office.

With all rashes, see a doctor if it doesn’t go away on its own within a few weeks, or if it worsens. While rashes can look terrible, most pass without in-office treatment or lasting concerns.

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family activities

Hooray for young athletes

Catch a local game this fall and support local students KIM LIPKER

F

all is football season. The state of Colorado buzzes with news of the Broncos, college football and rivalries like the CSU Rams vs. CU Buffs.

But did you know, in our own back yards, kids of all ages are digging in their cleats and getting on the ball? This means a host of opportunities to see sports in action for free or a nominal fee.

A high school football game can be just as fun as a professional football game and cost a lot less. The northern Colorado athletic fever is far reaching and the kids love having cheering fans at their games.

Rivalries are just as fierce as the college level, and in some cases, even more engrained in the local culture.

Attending a middle school or high school athletic event also helps maintain an atmosphere where student athletes can develop positive habits and fundamental skills.

These include personal values for a healthy life-long learning experience through participation in athletics and academics. All involved spectators serve as role models and representatives of the community.

POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT Middle school sports for students in 6th, 7th and 8th grade are offered at their respective PSD schools. Athletics for 6th graders are offered through the City of Fort Collins Recreation Department. Athletic programs for 7th and 8th grades are offered through the PSD Athletic Department and each middle school.

For more information about the City of Fort Collins Recreation Department 6th-grade Middle School Fall and Winter/ Spring Sports visit www.fcgov.com/sports/ pdf/middleschoolsportsflyer.pdf. Descriptions and information about each sport offered as well as the season length, practice schedule and location; registration start dates and cost can be found here.

For 7th and 8th grades fall sports in10

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clude football for the boys and softball for the girls. Winter sports include basketball and wrestling for boys and basketball for girls. These games are a lot of fun and are open to public admission. Information about schedules and game times can be found on individual school websites. Start at www.psdschools.org/athletics/middleschool-sports for more information.

Poudre School District offers a variety of athletic opportunities for students in high school. Every high school in PSD has a full-time Athletic Director who is charged with overseeing the athletic programs. Contact each high school for specific details regarding their athletic programs, schedules and opportunities.

• FALL SPORTS Boys–cross-country, football, golf, soccer and tennis Girls–cross-country, gymnastics, softball, field hockey and volleyball • WINTER SPORTS Boys–basketball and wrestling Girls–basketball and swimming Visit Fort Collins High School Athletics at https://fch.psdschools.org/ athletics Visit Fossil Ridge High School Athletics at https://frh.psdschools.org/ athletics Visit Poudre High School Athletics

at https://phs.psdschools.org/node/2524 Visit Rocky Mountain High School Athletics at https://rmh.psdschools.org/ athletics THOMPSON VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT For information on Thompson Valley School District Middle School Athletics see http://thompson.k12.co.us/ Domain/46 Visit Berthoud High School Athletics at http://www.bhspartans.org/ Visit Loveland High School Athletics at http://thompson.k12.co.us/ Page/3035 Visit Mountain View High School Athletics at http://www.mvhsathletics. org/ Visit Thompson Valley High School Athletics at http://www.tvhseagles.org/ WELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 6 - GREELEY For information on Middle School Athletics in the district see http://www. greeleyschools.org/Page/14518 Visit Greeley West High School Athletics at http://www.greeleyschools. org/domain/4343 Visit Greeley Central High School Athletics at http://www.northern conferenceco.org/g5-bin/client. cgi?G5genie=467&school_id=3 Visit Northridge High School Athletics at http://www.greeleyschools. org/Domain/4562 WELD RE-4 SCHOOL DISTRICT – WINDSOR Visit Windsor Middle School Athletics at http://wms.weldre4.k12.co.us/ wms_info/athletics Visit Windsor High School Athletics at http://windsorwizards.org/ For information about the Colorado High School Athletic Association visit http://www2.chsaa.org/

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give me a break

Back to daily routines Time to reorganize and create some structure KIM SHARPE

C

hange is in the air. No really.

Can you feel it? The mornings are a bit crisper, the evenings aren’t quite as long and the atmosphere seems charged. I’m totally psyched because the change that’s coming is summer changing to fall, and fall is my favorite time of year!

I look forward to switching from wearing shorts and sandals to slipping back into jeans and snuggly sweaters…preferably ones that I knit, but elaborating on that subject would lead me into a different genre of magazine, so I won’t go there.

Riding my bike through crunchy leaves is at the top of my all-timemost-fun activities ever. I commute year round on a two-wheeled, pedal-powered steed, and September and October offer the best weather for riding, in my humble opinion.

I’m a bit Type A or OCD, at least that’s what some people say. I prefer to refer to myself as having OCO, which is my made-up acronym for Obsessive-Compulsive ORDER. I like things just so, and fall—which corresponds to school getting back in session—seems like a great time to wake from our summer slumber of slacking off and get back into routines.

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GETTING BACK TO THE ROUTINE These can include re-establishing bedtimes and wake-up times, preparing lunches or rounding up lunch money each evening for the next day and setting out clothes and shoes appropriate for the following 24 hours based on weather reports. Of course, if you’ve lived in Colorado for any length of time you know that our weather can change in an instant, so it’s best to dress in layers and be prepared for a wide variety of conditions all year long.

It’s also a great time of year to purge the house of built-up clutter and set aside space for the inevitable deluge of information and papers that follows kids home from school.

Given my OCO-ness, I like trying to create an even better way to keep schoolwork organized than I’ve had in previous years. And don’t even get me started on the latest and greatest daily planner system. Actually, smart phones and Google calendars have kind of taken the fun out of the

great planner search, but there’s still room for dry-erase wall schedules that all family members can grasp at a glance.

DAILY READING Another routine to get back into if you’ve slipped out of it is daily reading. Research says children need to read or be read to at least 15 minutes every day. I recently learned about a free website (www.uniteforliteracy. com) that helps make this routine easy and fun. Check out Unite for Literacy’s digital library of picture books for beginning readers. They are narrated in 18 languages common to the United States, so even adults can benefit and brush up on vocabulary in Spanish, Japanese and even Swahili.

Finally, no daily routine would be complete without a dose of physical activity. Fall’s the perfect time to take a break outdoors and just play. I hope you do.

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community news

Support for parents

NoCo health professionals provide help and education KIM SHARPE

Northern Colorado health professionals are working hard to help keep us informed and safe. From education and support groups for parents and youth to improved emergency response times to disease outbreak news, they have our backs.

EMPOWERED, SUPPORTED PARENTS Team Fort Collins, a substance abuse prevention organization, is partnering with Touchstone Health Partners and Leadership Fort Collins to bring a new program called “Empowered Parents” to northern Colorado. This 12-week program will help parents gain an increased understanding of teenage mental health challenges such as substance abuse, depression, eating disorders and other concerns. Parents will learn how to identify risk factors, how to intervene and develop action plans, and where to find resources.

The Empowered Parents curriculum includes nationally recognized materials.

Youth Mental Health First Aid USA is a training module and Drugs and Alcohol: True Stories are videos, hosted

by Actor Matt Damon, featuring teens sharing their personal stories.

Empowered Parents will meet on Tuesday evenings, September 9 through November 25, 5:30-7pm, at 125 W. Crestridge Drive, Fort Collins. For more information or to register, contact Laurel Carter at 970-224-9931 or laurel@ teamfortcollins.org.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS RAISING TEENAGERS The Center for Family Outreach (The Center) is offering a free, interactive support group in both English and Spanish for parents and grandparents who are raising teenagers. Group discussion topics include “normal” adolescent behavior, drug and alcohol use, communication 14

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skills, the effect of the media on adolescents, single parenting and more. Group members will become familiar with helpful techniques for working through challenging situations and collaborate to brainstorm feasible strategies. The group meets every Monday, 5:30-6:30pm, with the exception of Labor Day. The Center also is hosting a new lunch information series entitled “A Meal and a Spiel” where expert guest speakers present on a wide variety of special-interest topics concerning the care of teens. Topics include adolescent legal rights, mental health issues, and substance abuse and suicide prevention.

Beginning on September 9, the lunch sessions will take place every Tuesday, 12noon-1pm at The Center, 1100 Poudre River Drive, Suite B, Fort Collins.

For more information about either the support group or the lunch series, contact Brooke Jostad at 970-495-0084 or brookej@tcffo.org.

TEENS NEEDED FOR MARIJUANA PREVENTION COALITION Marijuana use among Colorado teens is higher than the national average, with 39.5 percent of Colorado youth in grades 9-12 having experimented with the substance. Marijuana use among teens has been shown to negatively impact learning, memory, impulsiveness and critical thinking. Teen marijuana users are more likely to become addicted than adult users. Because teens are at risk of suffering negative effects from marijuana use, the Larimer County Department of Health & Environment (LCDHE) recently secured funding for youth marijuana use prevention efforts.

With that funding the department is establishing a youth coalition to design a marijuana use prevention campaign, and provide education and

information from reputable sources about health and safety issues related to marijuana use. The department is seeking youth to serve on the coalition.

Youth coalition members will be trained to be the experts for their peers.

They will become part of a speaker’s bureau to educate others on the true facts of marijuana. They will help identify norms regarding marijuana use, ideas for preventing youth initiation of marijuana use, and challenges and strategies related to youth access. They also will help develop prevention materials and resources that could be made available to the community at large.

A meeting about the coalition will be held on Wednesday, September 17, at 6:30pm, at the Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St. in Fort Collins. For more information, contact Lisa Laake at 970498-6735 or llaake@larimer.org.

EMERGENCY HELP ARRIVES FASTER Poudre Valley Hospital Emergency Medical Services (PVH EMS) has become the second response team in the nation to be designated as a CoOperator by the United States Forest Service and Colorado Office of Emergency Management.

A recently signed agreement makes PVH EMS the medical responder of choice for disasters in Larimer County and surrounding areas.

Prior to the agreement when disasters struck, PVH EMS crews immediately were dispatched to areas of need, but if the incidents grew to a large scale and federal agencies took over management duties, private ambulance services were sometimes brought in to provide medical care for citizens in the disaster area.

However, outside ambulance services, unfamiliar with the local geography and hospital structures are unable to provide service as efficiently as local emergency responders, who are not only employees

of our local community hospitals who understand each hospital’s specialties and where to transport each patient for appropriate care, but they also are our neighbors, family and friends.

“This is about our district and our people,” says Steve Main, PVH EMS director.

“It’s about our citizens knowing that the paramedics and EMTs who live and work in our area on a daily basis will be the ones who show up when help is needed.”

Braden Applegate, PVH EMS Special Operations Resource Teams (SORT) chief adds, “With this CoOperatorship in place, FEMA and state emergency agencies now have one stop shopping. As a disaster develops, the crews already in place from the onset will automatically continue to provide care.”

In 2013, PVH EMS SORT and Tactical EMS teams were deployed on 140 missions.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS AGAINST TULAREMIA A Larimer County resident was hospitalized for tularemia in August, according to local health officials. The man may have been exposed while mowing a property in Weld County outside Windsor where rabbits are plentiful, but have recently declined in number.

An environmental investigation of the property by Weld County’s health department found no rabbit carcasses or conclusive evidence of tularemia; however, the mowed property is the most likely site of exposure.

The patient developed symptoms of fever, sore throat and swollen glands several days after mowing the field. He was treated for more common causes of such symptoms, but after two courses of treatment with different antibiotics and no improvement, he was hospitalized in Fort Collins where a tularemia infection was confirmed. He was released after several days of treatment with appropriate antibiotics and is expected to make a full recovery.

Health officials from both the Larimer County and Weld County health departments remind residents to take precautions against tularemia by avoiding sick or dead animals and preventing pets from coming in contact with wild animals.

PVH EMS crews respond to natural disasters.

Tularemia is a bacterial infection most frequently transmitted to people who have handled infected animals, especially rabbits, hares, beavers and muskrats, although many kinds of animals can become infected. The bacteria also are shed in animal urine and feces, and can persist in the environment for a month or more. Additionally, infection can be transmitted by the bite of infected insects, most commonly ticks and deer flies. Tularemia is not considered contagious from person to person.

Typical signs of infection in humans can vary tremendously based on the site of infection, but generally include fever, chills and swollen glands. If tularemia is caused by the bite of an infected insect or from bacteria entering a cut or scratch, it usually causes a skin ulcer at the site of entry and swelling of nearby glands. Eating food or drinking water containing the bacteria may produce a throat infection, stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting. If inhaled through aerosols created by mowing, the bacteria can enter the lungs and cause coughing, chest pain and pneumonia. Tularemia may be life threatening but, can be effectively treated with antibiotics; medical attention should be sought immediately if someone suspects exposure.

Steps to prevent human tularemia infection include avoiding areas where wild rabbits or rodents are present; not handling sick or dead animals (including birds); wearing insect repellent effective against ticks, biting flies and mosqui-

toes; wearing shoes rather than going barefoot in areas where rabbits have died; and wearing a dust mask when mowing or blowing vegetation in areas where rabbit die-offs have occurred.

If you need to remove a dead animal or bird, apply an insect repellent against fleas and ticks prior to proceeding with the removal; use a shovel and place the body in a plastic bag and dispose of it in an outdoor trash receptacle; and thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and soap after the removal is complete.

With winter coming, the threat of contracting tularemia decreases, but still exists. “People are less likely to come in contact with rabbit nests in the winter because they are not out mowing fields and they are less likely to get bit by a flea or tick in the winter, but there will still be a threat as long as there are mammals like wild rabbits running around,” says Eric Aako, Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment communication director.

For more information, contact the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment at 970-498-6775 (on weekends or holidays, call the Larimer County Animal Control at 970- 2263647) or the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment at 970-304-6404, ext. 2270. For general information about tularemia, visit www. cdc.gov/Tularemia.

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healthy living A day at the Sustainable Living Fair Find healthy solutions and support for your family LEA HANSON

C

omposting, recycling and reusing, water conservation, and gardening are all examples of living more healthily…and more sustainably.

Luckily, in northern Colorado the available resources and support are bountiful and easy to access. One way to check out numerous options at once is to attend the Sustainable Living Fair. Learn more online at http://sustainableliving association.org/sustainable-living-fair/.

Hosted by the Sustainable Living Association, the 15th Annual Sustainable Living Fair will be held September 20 and 21 at Legacy Park in Fort Collins.

The fair offers a weekend filled with solution-based, family-oriented events designed to educate each member of your family. Your admission ticket gives you

health-foodie with training in organic certification inspection. He speaks Saturday at 12:30pm.

• MELANIE WARNER Warner is a nationally-renown food industry writer. She is the author of Pandora’s Lunchbox: How Processed Food Took Over the American Meal and has worked as a reporter for the New York Times, a senior writer at Fortune magazine, and a blogger for CBSNews.com.

She speaks Saturday at 2pm.

• LARRY KORN An educator, consultant, editor and author in the fields of permaculture, natural farming, sustainable landscaping and local food production, Korn spent several years working

access to acclaimed speakers, 75 workshops, and more than 250 exhibitors that will spark ideas as well as offer support and solutions for implementing them.

This year’s speakers are announced as they confirm and to date include: • GREG MICHAUD Michaud and his wife, Patty, run the Old Feed Store and instruct the Sustainable Living Association’s Backyard Chicken series and Biointensive Gardening Course.

Greg is a long-time holistic gardener turned sustainable ecofarmer/

on the Japanese island of Skikoku as a student of Masanobu Fukuoka, farmer, philosopher, and a leader in the worldwide sustainable agriculture movement. He speaks Saturday at noon.

• KIM JORDAN Jordan is the CEO and CoFounder of New Belgium Brewing Company. Ms. Jordan and New Belgium have been widely recognized as business role models; she received the EPA’s highest regional award for Environmental Excel-

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lence and in 2012 was Entrepreneur Magazine’s CEO of the Year and CEO of the year by Colorado Biz Magazine. New Belgium was voted in the top ten best places to work by Outside Magazine, Men’s Journal, and The Wall Street Journal.

WORKSHOPS This year’s 75 workshops feature education and training in the areas of green living, yoga, renewable energy, eating and growing locally, natural parenting, and green building. Workshops are generally 50 minutes and offer both beginners and advanced an opportunity to learn and grow their knowledge. Review the website (http://sustainablelivingassociation. org/sustainable-living-fair/workshops/) for more details including times offered; some require pre-registration and paying a participation fee although most are free.

Taste local cuisine by visiting choice exhibitors and plan to have lunch at the Real Food Market and Beer Garden to feast on fare from a number of locally owned eateries from northern Colorado.

Volunteers are welcomed and needed and this year’s team still has space for those looking to be involved in the event and are willing and able to work three- to four-hour shifts Thursday through Monday. Review and submit the online registration form at http://sustainable livingassociation.org/sustainableliving-fair/volunteer/ if you are interested.

Volunteers are deeply appreciated and well compensated with free admission, an official fair T-shirt, and shift beverages.

Tickets are $10 for a one-day pass and $15 for both days and can be purchased at the fair’s entrance; students can purchase tickets for $5 per day and kids under 12 are free. The fair is open 10am to 7pm, Saturday and Sunday.

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Finding balance

Just enough activity is the right amount for your kids Lynn U. Nichols

W

ith the start of school, kids suddenly find their days overstuffed with not only school but everything that goes with it—club meetings, sport practices, music lessons, and so on. While all this activity is exciting, it can also be stressful. After the hype wears down and life finds a rhythm, take time to gauge your kids’ stress levels. Are they doing too much? Too little? Support them in finding a healthy balance and learning ways to cope during stressful times.

KNOW YOUR CHILD’S RHYTHM Every child’s comfort level with activity is different. Some prefer to run from one event to the next. Others feel overwhelmed with just making it to school 18

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and a practice a few times a week. One way is not better than the other. What’s imperative is matching your child’s activity level with their nature.

“It’s important to know and honor your kids’ preferences for down time. When picking activities, take cues from your kids on how much they can handle. There may be vast differences even in your own family,” says Dr. Kathy Sigda, a clinical psychologist with UCHealth’s Mountain Crest Behavioral Health Center in Fort Collins who often works with adolescents.

KNOW WHEN TO PUSH AND WHEN TO BACK OFF As parents, we have expectations of our kids. Maybe we want them to love hik-

ing and mountain biking like we do. Or we really want them to get involved in volunteer or church functions. Maybe we expect straight As and their names on the Honor Role. We could want them to get a job and help with family responsibilities. Once in a while, we have to step back and take a hard look at our own expectations.

“Kids, whether they let it be known or not, often feel a whole lot of pressure to not disappoint mom or dad. This can cause a lot of stress,” says Sigda, who believes strongly in give and take between parents and kids.

“We have expectations of our kids to do certain things, like going out for the school band or playing football in

high school, but if they say, ‘I don’t like doing that anymore’ we have to be open to hearing that. We have to say, ‘Okay, let’s talk about other options,’ and be willing to let them decide what else might work,” she adds.

Sigda believes that learning to fail is just as important a lesson as learning to succeed: “Failure happens.

It’s a part of life. As parents we have to step back a little and allow our kids to learn what it feels like to fail, and to figure out how to pick themselves up. Learning how to cope with failing rather than quitting or running away is a valuable life skill. If you don’t make the varsity team it doesn’t mean you have to give up, it might mean changing your course or taking a different path, or maybe embracing the idea that it’s okay to be an average soccer player.”

ENCOURAGE KIDS TO SAMPLE DIFFERENT ACTIVITIES Instead of getting locked into one sport or interest, encourage your kids to try different ones, especially in elementary and middle school. The more they try, the broader their base of life experiences will be.

Ideally, when kids want to try out a new activity, it’s best to do it in a way that they don’t have to make a major commitment right off the bat. Recreational sports and day camps are a good way to try something new. It’s important for kids to follow through and stick things out, and trying something in a more casual setting helps this happen.

Let them decide when they feel serious about an activity. If they do decide to go out for the track team, encourage them to finish the season before deciding again.

REQUIRE SOME ACTIVITY AND INVOLVEMENT BEYOND SCHOOL Structure is a good thing. Having general life routines—eating meals together and going to bed at generally the same time each day—has great value in helping kids feel secure. It also helps kids stay healthy and reduces stress.

Requiring some structure and asking kids to get involved in something other than school is important. Some

parents make a rule that their kids have to, say, join one sport or club each semester at a minimum. Others insist they join the youth group at church. This all helps kids find balance in their lives.

When making such requirements, be open to non-traditional approaches.

If your child is not the sporty type, maybe she’d rather take a yoga class or walk with friends around the neighborhood after school every day. If your son finds band boring, maybe he’ll play in a jazz club in the community instead. Most middle and high schools have several different clubs kids can join.

“Studies show that kids who are involved in school-related activities have a higher chance of staying in school and finishing school,” Sigda states.

Remember, if we expect our kids to take on an activity outside of school or adopt healthy lifestyle habits like limiting junk food, we have to be willing to do the same.

“It works best when parents practice what they preach. Kids notice really quickly when parents have expectations that they themselves don’t follow,” she adds.

PLAN AHEAD FOR LESS STRESS When your son has a final test on Friday and a wrestling tournament on Thursday night, it’s likely going to feel hectic. Helping kids plan ahead for known stressful times can reduce their stress level.

“Kids need to be taught how to plan ahead. It’s okay to coach them, by saying, ‘So you have a tournament and a test next week, when can you find time to study?’ Don’t be afraid to pull out the calendar. Sleep is also an important way to reduce stress. If he knows he will be home late from the tournament, encourage him to get good sleep the few nights leading up to it.

Poor sleep really takes its toll, especially on teenagers,” Sigda says.

RECOGNIZE WHEN STRESS IS OUT OF CONTROL The tricky thing about stress and anxiety is that people can hide it well.

Sometimes, they are not even aware of the level of stress they are carrying themselves. That’s why it’s good to keep an eye out for telltale signs of stress ad-

vancing toward anxiety or depression.

“The main sign is a change. If your child is doing things that are not typical for her—say she’s more grumpy than usual, she’s getting frequent headaches, she says she doesn’t want to go to school—these are signs that stress may be overwhelming her,” Sigda says.

Other signs of advanced stress are aches and pains that come out of nowhere, stomach aches, headaches, irritability, looking exhausted and down in the dumps. It might also be grades slipping or a new habit of skipping school.

If your child is showing these signs, start asking open-ended questions to explore what’s going on.

“Every one of us feels stress and anxiety at some level, but when it starts getting in the way of other things, that’s when it is a problem. If your child is stressed but seems to be managing it, then it’s probably okay. But when things change—he doesn’t see his friends anymore or he’s worried all the time—that can mean stress has gotten out of control,” she says.

Sigda urges parents not to wait if they see a week or two of worrisome behavior. Dealing with it early—with a session or two with a therapist—can mean easier solutions than more indepth ones.

“In the beginning, just a few sessions with a professional to learn techniques to handle stress can help, even if you don’t think it’s a huge problem. And hearing these suggestions from an outside person can have more impact with kids,” Sigda concludes.

UC Health sponsored this article.

Looking for a counselor?

Mountain Crest Behavioral Health Center in Fort Collins offers counseling for families, adults and children for a variety of issues including stress, substance abuse, family relations and more.

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Walk and roll

Active transportation improves health and learning Kim Sharpe

H

ow do you roll? Or do you walk to get to where you want to go?

In many countries, like Denmark, active transportation (walking or bicycling) is a common mode of transportation and people choose to walk or bike over driving a motor vehicle. According to Denmark’s official website, “…no matter the weather and no matter where they are going…In Copenhagen 50 percent of all citizens commute by bike every day and there are more bikes than inhabitants…In fact 25 percent of all families with two kids in Copenhagen have a cargo bike.”

In the United States, most people choose to drive a car and people with low incomes walk or bike for transportation the most. Commuters with children are much less likely to walk or bike. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only 1.8 percent of households with children walk and 0.4 percent bike for transportation.

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TRANSPORTATION CHOICES AFFECT SCHOOL SUCCESS Parents make decisions every day intended to positively impact the health and well being of their children, but they don’t always consider transportation choices among them. Perhaps they should, because there’s a proven link between how children get to school and their health and academic success.

Results from the “Mass Experiment 2012,” a study of 20,000 Danish children ages 5-19, show that “Children who walk or cycle to school rather than being driven by their parents have an increased power of concentration and the effect of this ‘exercise’ lasts all morning.”

In fact, Niels Egelund, of Aarhus University, who is responsible for the study’s research design, says, “The exercise you get from transporting yourself to school reflects on your ability to concentrate for about four hours into the school day. As a 3rd-grade pupil, if you exercise and bike to school, your ability to concen-

trate increases to the equivalent of someone half a year further in their studies.”

He also says that the effect of exercise trumped that of diet. “The results showed that having breakfast and lunch has an impact, but not very much compared to having exercised.”

WALKING, BIKING PROMOTED IN NOCO Active transportation and wellness advocates in northern Colorado are using research like this to encourage more families to walk and bike to school.

Some NoCo communities leverage Safe Routes to School funding to support pedestrian and bicycling safety education; others haven’t done so yet, but plan to.

Fort Collins and Loveland both have funded, robust Safe Routes to School programs that are collaborations between each city and many community partners, including the school districts.

They focus on the “Five E’s:” Education, Encouragement, Engineering, Enforcement and Evaluation.

Educational programming teaches pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists about the rules of the road and how they can share safely. Encouragement includes increasing enthusiasm for walking and biking. Engineering involves street and sidewalk designs that increase safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. Enforcement gives local police departments a role to play in deterring unsafe behaviors of all road and sidewalk users. Finally, the Evaluation piece ensures local data is collected and used to inform the other four E’s.

The Fort Collins Safe Routes to School program features bike and pedestrian safety training in P.E. classes (with instructors from Bike Fort Collins and Poudre Valley Hospital Emergency Medical Services), bike helmet safety instruction using Safe Kids Larimer County’s Strap & Snap curriculum, walking school buses and bike trains, bike field trips, and informational presentations to parent/teacher groups and school wellness committees.

The 2014-15 program will continue these activities and increasingly support parent- and teacher-led activities like after-school bike clubs. For example, Fort Collins’ Safe Routes program purchased 20 bikes for Lincoln Middle School’s club. A pedaling school bus that was specially built with money donated to Safe Routes from the estate of a former Fort Collins resident is available to all schools.

The Fort Collins Safe Routes education program reaches approximately half or 14,000 Poudre School District students each year. It’s funded with monies from the Keep Fort Collins Great tax initiative, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Foundation, Poudre School District and other sources.

“Our program is evolving from being confined to school grounds to taking children out on streets and trails for real-life skills training, thanks to the growing number of teachers, parents and community partners who are getting involved,” says Nancy Nichols, City of Fort Collins Safe Routes to School Coordinator. “With more people taking responsibility for teaching school

children how to walk and bicycle safely, I’m hopeful that we’ll reach our goal of having at least 50 percent of students choosing to walk or bike to school.

About 20 to 25 percent do so now.”

City of Loveland and Thompson School District staff, Loveland fire and police officers, and members of Loveland’s PEDAL Club run that City’s Safe Routes program. It includes: “Tires ‘n Tennies Tuesdays,” which encourages all kindergarten through 5th graders to walk or ride their bikes to school every Tuesday; Safe Kids’ Strap & Snap helmet training; bike rodeos, which teach children bike safety skills; and safety assemblies led by local fire and police officials.

This year, coordinators are adding a series of workshops to the program, which are designed to engage school principals, teachers, school wellness team members, volunteer crossing guards, and especially parents and caregivers. The primary goal of the workshops is to improve travel safety and conditions for students and families, and increase the number of families that choose active transportation.

Kathy Schlepp, TSD’s wellness coordinator, says that when she observes students being dropped off or picked up from school, “it’s frightening. We have to find a way to decrease car traffic around schools.”

Jay Earl, Thompson School District’s (TSD) operational services liaison, adds, “We want parents who drive their children to school to realize they may be contributing to potentially unsafe school environments by adding to traffic congestion around schools.”

By engaging parents, Loveland’s Safe Routes leaders hope to improve drop-off and pick-up conditions. “Through these workshops, we want to build a corps of volunteers who help spread the message that there are safe, alternate ways for children to get to and from school,” explains Michelle Aschenbrenner, an engineering technician with the City of Loveland Public Works/Project Engineering Department and Safe Routes to School program coordinator. “We also want to include driver’s perspectives. There’s a role for everyone to play.”

The newly formed Estes Park Cycling Coalition (EPCC) is working

hard to make Estes a bicycle friendly community. Its efforts include Safe Routes to School-like training, as well as bicycling education programs for students and families, but to date, the community hasn’t received state grant funding for its work. Rather it’s spreading safety messaging through bike- and walk-to-school events, and an Estes Park Police Departmenthosted Safety Fair, which includes distribution of free bike helmets. Additionally, the EPCC has formed a committee to address Safe Routes to School and community education.

“We are pushing hard for better bike infrastructure through town so kids can ride safely,” says Greg Sampson, EPCC president. “Being a new organization, we are learning how to work with the Town, county and state governments on our agenda items. We have a lot of support from the Town of Estes Park, and we are always open to assistance and ideas.”

Greeley is making great strides in improving its infrastructure to be more bicycle and pedestrian friendly, but “unfortunately, we’re not doing anything with the schools yet,” explains City of Greeley Traffic Engineer Eric Bracke.

The City received a grant from Kaiser Permanente to further implement its bike plan and Bracke says putting Safe Routes to School education in place “is definitely an idea that will rise to the top of the programmatic side of the plan.”

BENEFITS ABOUND City and school leaders understand commuting with kids can be complicated, but they believe choosing walking and biking can ultimately benefit families and the community.

“Our biggest concern is that kids and families have safe, convenient, non-threatening routes to school so they can choose to bike or walk when they want,” Nichols says. “Shifting to active transportation helps kids perform better in school, reduces car trips and the emissions that add to air pollution, and helps families save money because they’re not buying fuel or paying for other motor vehicle expenses. It’s a winwin for everyone.”

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thompson school district news The new school year has arrived

New teachers to the Thompson School District gathered on August 11 at Mountain View High School to meet fellow staff members and get acquainted with the district.

Meanwhile, the entire group of over 1,300 TSD teachers and other licensed staff members began their day on August 18 at a district welcome event, before continuing on to a full day of professional development and preparation for the beginning of classes.

CHOIR SELECTED TO PERFORM AT CONVENTION The Mountain View High School Advanced Women’s Choir and their director, Phil Forman, have been selected to perform at the Colorado Music Education Association Convention in January 2015. This is one of the highest honors possible for a musical group and their director.

TEACHERS CONNECT AT SUMMER INSTITUTE Teachers from around Thompson School District participated in a summer institute hosted by Lincoln 22

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Elementary School principal Michelle Malvey. This is the third year that Ms. Malvey has presented the program.

Teachers completed an independent study based on needs of their grade, school or department that were identified in June and then they shared their work last month, allowing them

to connect with each other, share ideas and products and support each other as they also continue to learn.

MOONLIGHTING TEACHERS Hilarity will be on the menu this month when “Moonlighting Teachers” returns to the Rialto Theater, with two shows to benefit the Thompson Education Foundation on Friday, September 12 and Saturday, September 13 at 7:30pm. Tickets are $20 each or $18 for groups of 10 or more and can be purchased at www. rialtotheatercenter.org.

WHOLE FOODS SUPPORTS SCHOOL GARDEN The PTA organization at Cottonwood Plains Elementary School wrote a grant and received $2000 from Whole Foods to create a garden at the school. In addition to great leadership from CSU architects who have donated their expertise, several businesses donated materials and many volunteers spent hours digging trenches and pounding rebar. Construction wrapped-up last month.

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poudre school district news PSD 2013 Annual Sustainability Report available

Kruse Elementary students are all smiles during a fun activity on the first day of school.

Did you know in 2013 the Building Maintenance Department recycled 1,240 lockers, 7,600 pounds of porcelain fixtures and 50 pounds of cardboard?

Did you know that to reduce the amount of packaging for laptop orders, the Information Technology and Purchasing and Materials Management Departments requested “coffin” packaging, which allows for 15 devices per box instead of individual packaging, resulting in an 80-percent reduction in waste?

Did you know that Webber Middle School and Rocky Mountain High School both started composting programs in 2013?

You can read about these outstanding accomplishments and other highlights in the 2013 PSD Annual Sustainability Report. Information in 24

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this report was collected through interviews with staff and students to identify accomplishments and future goals.

The report reaffirms the district’s commitment to sustainability in resource conservation, greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable education, transportation, health and wellness.

For more information about PSD and sustainability, visit the sustainability web page.

PSD STUDENTS CONTINUE TO TOP PEERS STATEWIDE ON TCAP TESTS Poudre School District students continue to perform higher than students statewide in all 24 areas tested on the spring 2014 Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP) tests.

As it has in the 15-year history of

standardized tests, PSD’s district-wide averages for students scoring proficient and advanced remain well ahead of state averages, ranging from 7- to 14-percent higher across all subjects, at all grade levels.

PSD also increased the percentage of students scoring proficient or advanced relative to 2013 in each of the three tested subject areas: reading, writing, and math.

“PSD students continue to perform well which is a testament to the hard work of staff and students,” says Dr. Sandra Smyser, superintendent. “We will continue with our plans to improve instruction in every classroom through professional development and our teaching and learning framework.”

Student scores on TCAP are placed in four categories: unsatisfactory, partially proficient, proficient and advanced.

Students rated proficient or advanced are considered to have “mastered” the standards for their grade level in the subject area being tested. Those who placed in unsatisfactory and partially proficient have not mastered the standards in the particular subject area in question.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT–LONGITUDINAL SCORES PSD showed significant gains on the 2014 test in each subject area. When comparing a specific grade level from year to year, results reflect different cohorts of student performance on the same assessment, which can be characterized as an analysis of instruction at that grade level over time.

Reading: Highest percentage of students who scored proficient or advanced in last 5 years in grades 4 with 80 percent, and grade 10 with 78 percent. Tied highest percentage in 5th and 7th grade.

Writing: tied highest percentage in 7th grade.

Mathematics: Highest percentage of students who scored proficient or advanced in last 5 years in grades 4, and 10.

Tied highest percentage in 5th grade.

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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT–COHORT DATA To look at student performance in terms of achievement, PSD considers the cohort data. This is how a specific set of students perform from year to year as they progress through the system.

Reading: Fifth graders increased their scores 3 percentage points from when they were in fourth grade, increasing from 79 percent proficient and advanced in 2013 to 82 percent in 2014. This is the second year that students in 5th grade accomplished this!

Writing: Fifth graders increased their writing scores by 2 percentage points in 2014 climbing to 68 percent proficient and advanced. Seventh graders increased their percentage by 8 percentage points. This is also the second year that students moving into 5th, and 7th grades increased the percentage of proficient or advanced in writing.

Parents will receive their students’ individual TCAP results from their school this fall. These reports detail each student’s progress toward meeting standards and provide an explanation

of the performance categories. In addition to the traditional TCAP reports, parents will receive individual student Growth and Achievement Reports.

These reports provide a longitudinal history of each student’s performance and growth on TCAP. COLORADO GROWTH MODEL The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) also released academic growth data for districts. The Academic Growth Model is the cornerstone of the state’s accountability system. The growth model measures individual student growth relative to other students statewide in the same grade and who began the school year at a similar academic starting point (as determined by prior CSAP scores.)

PSD students continue to make great annual growth with elementary students surpassing the state norm in reading (MGP=55), writing (MGP=54) and mathematics (MGP=58). In fact, PSD is ranked number 1 in the state in elementary

math growth rates in 2014.

ACADEMIC GROWTH MEASURES STUDENTS’ PROGRESS When using the Colorado Growth Model, the district typically looks at the district-wide median growth percentiles. The median growth percentiles are a means of comparing academic growth for schools and districts that serve different populations of students. Any median that exceeds the state norm of 50 is considered evidence that Poudre School District student’s obtained levels of academic growth that exceeded their academic peers statewide.

PSD Calendar of Events Sept. 1 ....... Labor Day – No School Sept. 9 ....... 6 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting, JSSC, 2407 LaPorte Ave. Sept. 23 .... 6 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting and work session, JSSC, 2407 LaPorte Ave.

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greeley-evans district 6 news School Kickoff a huge success The first-ever School Kickoff Community Celebration took place at Greeley Central High School Saturday, Aug. 9, and approximately 3,000 to 4,000 people attended the event.

The Kickoff was funded with donations from various businesses and organizations throughout Greeley and Evans. Event sponsors included: Agfinity, District 6 Nutrition Services, Banner Health/NCMC, JBS, Ehrlich Toyota 47th Avenue, U.S. Foods, Anadarko Petroleum Corp., Kaiser Permanente, Flood and Peterson, Sam’s Club, StarTek, Weld Prevention Partners, North Range Behavioral Health, The Tribune, 1310 KFKA, Alphagraphics, FASTSIGNS and 15 other businesses and organizations from Greeley and Evans who donated money for school supplies and gift certificates for the event.

Donations were used to purchase 775 backpacks and fill them with school supplies. As well, a free lunch was served to 1,200 attendees. NextCare was also at the event, providing on-site sports physicals to District 6 students for $10. The company said they completed 85 physicals during the three-hour event.

In addition, 46 community booths were filled with agencies, businesses and organizations, from the city of Greeley, to High Plains Library District to health-care providers. Parents could sign up their children for free- and-reduced lunch, get information on District 6 schools and educational services and visit with officials from the transportation department. There were also activities such as face painting, student entertainment from a variety of District 6 groups and students, and carnival games provided by the Latino Chamber of Commerce.

More than 100 volunteers helped stuff backpacks prior to the event and helped work the day of the celebration.

In addition, dozens of principals, administrators and District 6 staff participated in the event.

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The Department of Communications is hoping to make this an annual event, and is already looking into larger venues for next year.

DISTRICT 6 TCAP MATH SCORES SHOW MARKED IMPROVEMENT In a year when state scores decreased overall, the percentage of Greeley-Evans School District 6 students scoring proficient or advanced on math in the 201314 state assessments reached the highest level in a decade, and improved by a full percentage point over last year’s scores.

Overall, District 6 scores on the Transitional Colorado Assessment Program tests improved or maintained in 13 out of 24 content areas in grade levels across the district. All-time high scores were achieved in third-grade math, seventh-grade math, eighthgrade math and ninth-grade math. In fact, District 6 was one of a few school districts to see a marked increase in math scores this year.

Scores district-wide in reading went down by .5 of a percentage point. Writing scores went down by nearly one percentage point. District 6 students did not take TCAPs in science or social studies in 2013-14 because the district was part of a pilot program for the new Colorado Measures of Academic Success, assessments that will be implemented next year statewide and will replace the TCAP tests. Results for the pilot tests have not yet be released by the state.

Interim Superintendent Wayne Eads says scores over the past few years have gone up and down, but generally the district is on a positive trajectory to close the gap with statewide scores.

“This helps us reaffirm that many of the curriculum and instructional changes we’ve made are helping our students reach proficiency in core subject areas,” Eads says. “It also gives us information about where we still need to do work and shore up our practices. Our goal remains to ensure a great education and success

for every, single student in District 6.”

Other positive highlights include: • 16 schools had doubled-digit increases in reading scores.

• 13 schools saw double-digit increases in writing scores.

• 18 schools saw double-digit increases in math scores.

• 10 schools saw double-digit decreases in unsatisfactory scores for math.

• The number of 3rd, 4th and 5th graders scoring advanced on the math TCAP reached an all-time high.

WAYNE EADS NAMED SOLE FINALIST FOR INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT The Greeley-Evans School District 6 Board of Education named District 6 Chief Operations Officer Wayne Eads as the sole finalist for Interim Superintendent. Mr. Eads will fill the position vacated by Superintendent Ranelle Lang, who resigned effective June 30.

Eads has been with District 6 for 22 years. As Chief Operations Officer, he oversees the district’s budget, business operations and support services.

It is anticipated he will serve as interim superintendent until the Board names a permanent superintendent sometime next year.

The Board of Education has interviewed two search firms – the Colorado Association of School Boards and HYA Executive Search – as possible candidates to conduct a superintendent’s search for District 6. The board was scheduled to select a firm Aug. 11, but voted to delay that action so board members could do further research on the two firms.

Eads, who grew up in the Ozarks of southern Missouri and graduated from Harvard College with a bachelor’s degree in American history, has been an active member of the Greeley community. He served as treasurer for two years on the Greeley Stampede Committee and is an active member of the Greeley Rotary Club.

PLAY PLAY

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VOLUNTEERS AND REFEREES NEEDED! AT ROLLERLAND SKATE CENTER • 324 SOUTH LINK LANE

FOR MORE INFO, EMAIL: URRKN@YAHOO.COM OR CALL (970)231-8007

Loveland Recreation Department

Chilson Recreation Center

Something for all ages A high-quality, state-licensed program that focuses on critical thinking, Kindergarten readiness, discovery and social-emotional-physical development.

Enroll NOW for preschool and Pre-K classes. AM and PM options available H Large Group/Circle Time

H Art/Cooking Enrichments

H Small Group/Lesson Time

H Gymnastics/Gym Time

H Child-Directed Center Time

H Small, healthy snacks served daily

H H H SPACE IS LIMITED. Call NOW to enroll for Fall! H H H Visit us online to view our other exciting programs for Tots & Preschoolers

Amazing Athletes Kids Zumba and Dance Gymnastics Preschool Science and Art

Art & Pottery Classes for All ages Martial Arts LEGO Engineering Camps Wide range of Youth Sports

970-962-2458 • 700 E 4th Street • Loveland www.cityof loveland.org

Visit us on Facebook, Twitter and Youtube

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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 SCHOOL 2 Cheese raviolis; spaghetti w/meat sauce 3 Orange chicken w/rice & veggies; chicken patty sandwich 4 Beef & bean burrito; chicken nuggets 5 Pepperoni/veggie pizza 8 Baked potato bar w/chili or broccoli & cheese; chicken patty sandwich 9 Veggie lasagna; Ranch chicken bites & home-style biscuit 10 Sweet & sour meatballs over fried rice; hamburger/cheeseburger 11 Beef tacos; turkey & cheese wrap 12 BBQ chicken/cheese pizza 15 Toasted cheese sandwich & tomato soup; chicken nuggets

16 Chicken Alfredo penne pasta; ham & cheese sub 17 Asian Teriyaki bowl; chicken drumstick & home-style biscuit 18 Beef enchilada bake; pig in a blanket 19 Pepperoni/cheese pizza 22 Taco burger; mac & cheese 23 Chicken cordon bleu casserole; turkey gravy & roll 24 Asian noodles w/chicken & veggies; trout treasures 25 Chicken fajita bowl; chicken patty sandwich 26 Chicken/Hawaiian pizza 29 Hamburger/cheeseburger; pulled pork sandwich

30 Chicken raviolis; spaghetti & meat sauce MIDDLE SCHOOLS 2 Chicken Alfredo; penne w/meatsauce 3 Sweet & sourchicken; meatballs over fried rice 4 Fajita rice bowl; black bean medly 5 Burrito w/shredded pork or bean & cheese 8 Pulled pork sandwich; BBQ chicken sandwich 9 Cheese raviolis; spaghetti & meatballs 10 Asian Teriyaki bowl; chicken nuggets 11 Taco bar 12 Trout melt sandwich; mac & cheese 15 Taco burger; Southwest chicken sandwich

16 Veggie lasagna; chicken nuggets 17 Orange chicken; beef w/rice 18 Burrito bar 19 Turkey pot pie; baked chicken & biscuit 22 Pancake & sausage wrap; Ranch chicken bites 23 Chicken cordon bleu casserole; meatball sub 24 Asian noodles w/chicken or beef and veggies 25 Taco bar 26 Baked chicken & dinner roll; chili cheese dog 29 Philly cheesesteak w/chicken or beef 30 Chicken Alfredo; penne & meatsauce

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT — Elementary lunches are $2.75. Secondary school lunches are $3. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2 Pizza stick w/marinara sauce; chicken tender salad 3 Hamburger; chef salad 4 Nachos; taco salad 5 Turkey w/gravy; garden entrée salad 8 Mac & cheese; Caesar salad 9 Pizza; chicken tender salad 10 Chicken breast strips; chef salad 11-12 No school!

15 Grilled chicken sandwich; Caesar salad 16 Pesto pasta w/chicken; chicken tender salad

17 BBQ pork sliders; chef salad 18 Orange chicken; garden entrée salad 19 No school!

22 Chicken breast nuggets; Caesar salad 23 French bread boat; chicken tender salad 24 BBQ chicken breast; chef salad 25 Chicken fajita taco; taco salad 26 Veggies lasagna rolls; garden entrée salad 29 Pancake w/sausage; Caesar salad 30 Pizza stick w/marinara sauce; chicken tender salad

SECONDARY SCHOOL 2 Tuscan pasta salad; chicken patty sandwich 3 Burger bar; baked beans 4 Nachos; lasagna w/meat 5 Turkey w/gravy 8 Mac & cheese; chicken quesadilla 9 Pizza; chicken fajita wrap 10 Fiesta bar 11 Chicken burrito bowl; meatball sandwich 12 Chicken Caesar wrap; French bread boat 15 Grilled chicken sandwich; nachos 16 Pesto pasta w/chicken; hamburger

17 Pizza bar 18 Orange chicken; pretzel w/cheese sauce 19 No school!

22 Chicken breast nuggets; sloppy Joe 23 French bread boat; hot ham & cheese sandwich 24 Salad & sandwich 25 Chicken fajita taco; meatball sandwich 26 Veggie lasagna rolls; chicken breast strips 29 Waffles w/maple chicken breast strips; pulled pork sandwich 30 Tuscan pasta salad; chicken patty sandwich

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 2 BBQ pork sandwich; Club hoagie 3 Chicken soft taco; PBJ 4 Turkey pot pie; ham & cheese hoagie 5 Hawaiian/cheese pizza; PBJ 8 Mac & cheese; chicken salad sandwich 9 Bean & cheese burrito w/rice; turkey & cheese wrap 10 BBQ chicken; PBJ 11 Herb chicken w/roll; Italian hoagie 12 BBQ chicken/cheese pizza; PBJ 15 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 16 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice;

Club hoagie 17 Toasted cheese sandwich; PBJ 18 Pot roast w/egg noodles; ham & cheese hoagie 22 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 23 Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich; turkey & cheese wrap 24 Pasta w/meat sauce; PBJ 25 Roasted turkey w/roll; Italian hoagie 26 Cheese/taco pizza; PBJ 29 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 30 Lasagna w/breadstick; Club hoagie

MIDDLE SCHOOL 2 BBQ pork sandwich; Club hoagie 3 Chicken soft taco; PBJ 4 Turkey pot pie; ham & cheese hoagie 5 Hawaiian/cheese pizza; PBJ 8 Mac & cheese; chicken salad sandwich 9 Bean & cheese burrito w/rice; pastabilities bar 10 BBQ chicken; PBJ 11 Herb chicken w/roll; Italian hoagie 12 BBQ chicken/cheese pizza; PBJ 15 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 16 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice;

Club hoagie 17 Toasted cheese sandwich; PBJ 18 Pot roast w/egg noodles; ham & cheese hoagie 22 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 23 Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich; turkey & cheese wrap 24 Pasta w/meat sauce; PBJ 25 Roasted turkey w/roll; Italian hoagie 26 Cheese/taco pizza; PBJ 29 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 30 Lasagna w/breadstick; Club hoagie

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT — Price for elementary lunch is $2.35, for middle school students, $2.55. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2 Rotini w/meatballs 3 Taco 4 Chicken tenders 5 Stuffed crust cheese/ pepperoni pizza 8 Fiesta mac & cheese 9 Salisbury steak 10 Grillled cheese sandwich 11 Chicken Alfredo

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12 Cheese/pepperoni pizza 15 Mac & cheese 16 Chicken drumstick 17 French toast sticks 18 Taco 19 Big daddy’s cheese pizza 22 No school!

23 Hamburger 24 Teriyaki chicken 25 Ravioli

26 Breadstick cheese stuffed w/sauce 29 Chicken patty 30 Turkey Lo Mein SECONDARY SCHOOL 2 Rotini w/meatballs 3 Taco 4 Chicken tenders 5 Steak & cheese sub 8 Fiesta mac & cheese

9 Salisbury steak 10 Bean & cheese burrito 11 Chicken Alfredo 12 Meatball sub 15 Mac & cheese 16 Sloppy Joes 17 French toast sticks 18 Taco 19 Chicken patty 22 No school!

23 Cheeseburger 24 Teriyaki chicken 25 Ravioli 26 Pepperoni calzone 29 Chicken patty 30 Turkey Lo Mein

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SEPTEMBER 2014 ONGOING SEPTEMBER 6-OCTOBER 4 Journey to the West Fantasy and humor underscore a brazenly imaginative, soaring adventure, which follows the journey of a Buddhist monk and his boisterous band of heavenly exiles. Ticket prices and show times vary.

Lincoln Center Magnolia Theatre, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 970-221-6730 or www.fcgov.com/lctix.

SEPTEMBER 4-NOVEMBER 2 Seven Brides for Seven Brothers “Goin’ courting” has never been as much fun as in this rip-roaring stage version of the popular MGM movie musical. Ticket prices and show times vary. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Drive, Johnstown. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com.

SEPTEMBER 5-6 Holes Based on the young adults novel written

by Louis Sachar and performed by the Stampede Troupe. Ticket prices and show times vary. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th St., GR. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

SEPTEMBER 12-13 Moonlighting Teachers—Back on the Stage with Old Favorites and New Fun Enjoy an evening of laughter and song as the Moonlighting Teachers troupe pokes fun at the world of education. With original songs, skits, music and dance, the group provides a fast-moving, fun-filled show that appeals to anyone who has ever attended school–or worked in one. Ticket prices vary; proceeds benefit the Thompson Education Foundation. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 970962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

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SEPTEMBER 20-21 Sustainable Living Fair Renowned speakers, 250 exhibitors, family activities, yoga, beer garden, food, live music and more. Ticket prices vary.

Legacy Park, 300 Woodlawn Drive, FC. 10am-7pm. 970-224-3247 or www. sustainablelivingassociation.org.

Blue Man Group Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine comedy, music, and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Ticket prices and show times vary. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th St., GR. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

SEPTEMBER 27 AND 28 Family Storytime with UNC Talk, sing, read, write and play together in a format appropriate for young children.

Share books, stories, rhymes, music and movement. No registration required. For children of all ages and their parent or caregiver. Presented by UNC Student Council for Exceptional Children.

Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 3:30pm. 888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

SEPTEMBER 29-OCTOBER 1 Rocky Mountain Rock ‘N Roll SingAlong Festival 2014 Sha Na Na, the Grammy® nominated music legends who co-starred as “Johnny Casino and the Gamblers” in the blockbuster film Grease will rock the Candlelight Dinner Playhouse. Ticket prices and show times vary. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Drive, Johnstown. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com.

TUESDAYS, THROUGH OCTOBER Loveland Farmers’ Market Hobby Lobby Parking Lot, N. Garfield & Orchards, LV. 11am-3pm. 970-495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com.

WEDNESDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 24 Summer Enchanted Evening Series Part history, part natural history and part show & tell. Topics will range from archeology to hummingbirds. The Baldpate Inn, 4900 S. Hwy.7, EP. 7pm.

970-586-6151 or www.baldpateinn.com.

WEDNESDAYS, THROUGH OCTOBER 1 The Power of Foods for Kids Youth ages 6-12 will learn about the four food groups in the Power Plate. Preregistration is required and scholarships are available. $60 for six-class series or $10 for a single day. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 4-6pm.

970-416-2468 or www.fcgov.com/ gardens.

THURSDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 25 Estes Valley Farmers Market Bond Park, MacGregor Ave., EP. 8am12:30pm. 303-775-9058 or www. visitestespark.com.

FRIDAYS Friday Morning Sing Alongs Sing, dance and shake up a storm. Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys, 111 North College Ave., FC. 11am-12noon. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 19 Friday Fest Enjoy live music under the stars. 9th Street Plaza, GR. 5-10pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

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SATURDAYS Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 W. Drake Rd., FC. 10am1pm. 970-218-5521 or www. drakeroadfarmersmarket.com.

Greeley Farmers’ Market Union Pacific Depot, 902 7th Ave., GR. 970-350-9783 or www.greeleygov. com/CommunityDevelopment/ FarmersMarket.aspx.

Open Board Game Night Bring your favorite board game or play one of 160 from our Open Game Library.

The Haunted Game Café, 3307 S. College Ave., Ste.107, FC. 6-10pm. 970-402-2466 or www.hauntedgamecafe.com.

SUNDAYS Fort Collins Farmers’ Market 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. 11am-3pm.

970-495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com.

CAMC Farmers’ Market Ace Hardware Parking Lot, 1001 E. Harmony Road, FC. 11am-3pm. camcfarmersmarketseo@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 iLearn Technology: Microsoft Word 101 Microsoft Word 2010 is the most popular wordprocessing software on the market today. Free. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 9:30-11:30am. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org. iLearn Technology: Microsoft Excel This class will introduce the basic functions and features of Microsoft Excel. Free. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 12:30-2pm. 970-9622599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Google Drive This class will survey what programs Google Drive offers and what they can be used for. Bring your own laptop or device, or one will be provided for you.

(Participants need to have an existing Gmail account and good basic keyboard and mouse skills.) Registration required.

Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

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Visit with Author Margaret Coel The best-selling author of the Wind River Mystery series is coming to Fort Collins. Her latest novel is “Night of the White Buffalo,” the 18th book in her series. She’ll speak and sign books. Free.

Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www. poudrelibraries.org.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 First Friday Gallery Walk Stroll Fort Collins city streets and experience the city’s art galleries which feature paintings, sculptures, exhibits, photos and more. Many of the gallery owners will be on hand to share their expertise (and sometimes, a snack!).

Free. Old Town Fort Collins. 6-9pm. www.downtownfortcollins.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Chimney Hollow Open Space Tour A field trip that will include an easy, round-trip walk of 0.5 mile. Free, but pre-registration required. Chimney Hollow Open Space within the Blue Mountain Conservation Area, approximately five miles southwest of LV. 9am-12noon. 970-619-4489 or www.larimer.org/NRregistration.

Annual Emergency Preparedness and Family Safety Expo This family friendly, informational and activity-filled event is designed to help local families and businesses learn how to be prepared for emergencies, and protect themselves from accidents before they happen. Free. The Ranch, First National Bank North Exhibition Hall, 5280 Arena Circle, LV. 10am-2pm. 970498-7149 or www.cityofloveland.org.

Sensory Storytime for Children with Special Needs Sensory storytime is designed specifically for children who have a hard time in large groups, are on the autism spectrum or are sensitive to sensory overload. The class incorporates preschool-level books, songs and movement. Registration is required and limited to 12 families. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 10:30am.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Foraging Club: Mushrooms Forage for mushrooms up the Poudre Canyon. Free, but please RSVP to info@thegrowingproject.org. Meet at 12noon at Ted’s Place, intersection of Hwys. 287 and 14. 12noon-6pm. www. thegrowingproject.org.

Families Learn Around the World Celebrate how people from all over the world learn. See, hear, touch and feel learning in a different way at the Discovery Stations throughout the library. Mango Language database instruction, too. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 1pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Garden a’Fare Beer Tour Tour the gardens and sample from six local restaurant stations paired with Odell beers. Participating restaurants include The Moot House, Canyon Chop House, Spoons Soups & Salads, Whole Foods Market, Restaurant 415 and Fiona’s. Silent auction and lively local music round out the evening’s experience. Each guest will receive a commemorative Odells/Gardens glass goblet upon admission. $50. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 5-8pm. 970-416-2468 or www.fcgov. com/gardens.

Follies Think opera has no kick? Think again. Based on the demolition of the Weismann Theater and reminicence of its former Follies and their husbands.

Ticket prices vary. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www. fcgov.com/lctix.

Steven Curtis Chapman One the most awarded musicians in Christian music, Chapman has won 57 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, 5 Grammy’s, charted 47 #1 singles and has sold nearly 11million albums. Since the late 1980’s, Chapman has spent his life creating music that makes a difference. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th St., GR. 7:30pm. 970356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

International Observe the Moon Night Observe the moon in all its glory.

Telescopes will be available or bring your own. Presented by the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society.

Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Mermaid Princess Storytime The Little Mermaid will lead a storytime and sing-along, pose for photographs with guests and autographing books that have been purchased at Old Firehouse Books. $12. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut Street, FC. 10am. 970-4847898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Teen Advisory Board Teens! Help plan library programs you actually want to attend. Share music, books and movies, or whatever else rocks your world. Make a difference in your community through projects you initiate. Great way to earn community service hours, too. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 4pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Foraging for Native Plants: Fruits and Seeds Learn about native Colorado fruits and seeds and how to eat them. $5 ticket required; purchase tickets at www. thegrowingproject.org/tgp-universityworkshops.html. TGP Educational Garden at Shire CSA, 713 E. Prospect Road, FC. (Do not enter from Prospect.

Go south on Stover, east on Parker.)

4-6pm. www.thegrowingproject.org.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 The Life of a Migrant Farm Worker Carmel Solano presents his true life story as a migrant farm worker during the 1940s and 50s. This discussion will describe living conditions, medical care and safety issues, and will include a display of the tools used by migrant farm workers. Free. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 6-7pm. 970-962-2410 or www. cityofloveland.org.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Pops & Circumstance - The Rings Presented by the Loveland Orchestra, directed by Luciano R. Silvestri, Jr. $10; $5 students; children under 12 free.

Good Shepherd Church, 3429 N. Monroe Ave., LV. 7pm. 970-223-8711 or www. lovelandorchestra.org.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Genealogy on the Internet Learn how to use the Internet to map your family tree. Free. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 9:15am12:15pm. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

iPad Basics Learn the basics of navigating an iPad. Menus, buttons and settings will be explained in a relaxed and friendly environment. Learn about apps and how to manage them. Bring your own iPad or iPhone. Registration required.

Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 An Evening with Cheryl Strayed Enjoy a discussion with the author of #1 New York Times bestseller WILD, the New York Times bestseller Tiny Beautiful Things and the novel Torch.

Book signing afterward. Ticket prices vary. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 7:30pm. 970221-6730 or www.fcgov.com/lctix.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Survival 101 Youth in grades 6-12 are invited to learn how to survive in the wilderness. Free.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 3:30-4:30pm. 970-962-2548 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Foodie Walk Old Town Square, Downtown, FC. 5-8pm. 970-484-6500 or www. downtownfortcollins.com.

Mother Falcon What began as a jam session among a few adventurous high school cellists eager to break out of the rigid repertoire predominating their musical training has turned into an indie orchestra that now includes violins, saxophones, trumpet, piano, accorion, banjo, guitars and bassoon. NPR Music calls their sound “Sweepingly majestic.� Prices vary.

Griffin Concert Hall, University Center for the Arts, 1400 Remington St., FC. 7:30pm. 970-491-ARTS (2787) or www.

CSUArtsTickets.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 The French Nest Open-Air Market An opportunity for crafters to showcase their talents and available goods, and for shoppers to peruse artisan, antique and vintage wares. Food, face painting and music, too. Civic Center Park, 225 Laporte Ave.,FC. 9am-3pm. www. thefrenchnestmarket.com. iLearn Technology: Microsoft Word 101 Microsoft Word 2010 is the most popular wordprocessing software on the market today. Free. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 9:30-11:30am. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Loveland Oktoberfest This seasonal event will feature family friendly festival, artisan and craft vendors, German-style contests, nationally recognized and chart topping entertainment by the Flobots, Proverbial and The Epilogues alongside Colorado craft beer, entertainment for all ages and food. Ticket prices vary.

Thunder Mountain Amphitheatre, 4250 Byrd Drive, LV. 11am-10pm. www. lovelandoktoberfest.org.

Day for Kids STEAMfest This event, brought to you by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County and the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, unites local STEM and STEAM related offerings around a day of celebration, hands on STEAM activities and lots of family fun. Free. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Court, FC. 10am-4pm. 970-223-1709 or www. begreatlarimer.org.

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iLearn Technology: Microsoft Excel This class will introduce the basic functions and features of Microsoft Excel. Free. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 12:30-2pm. 970-9622599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Season Extension Learn to extend the growing season and what proper steps to take to ensure a wonderful fall harvest. $5 ticket required; purchase tickets at www. thegrowingproject.org/tgp-universityworkshops.html. TGP Educational Garden at Shire CSA, 713 E. Prospect Road, FC. (Do not enter from Prospect.

Go south on Stover, east on Parker.)

12:30pm. www.thegrowingproject.org.

3D Printing Workshop This workshop offers an introduction to the 3D printing process and walks you through your very first prints. For people ages 11 and up. Free. Loveland Public Library, Erion Room, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 1-4pm. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Sway-The Art of Dance Experience an evening of Belly Dance, Bollywood and Burlesque dancing accompanied by Djembe Jive and the Stone People Drummers. Some performances may not be appropriate for patrons under the age of 18. $12 adult; $10 senior/student. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 970962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Extreme Creative Cardboard Challenge This event is part of the Outside The Lines: Libraries Reintroduced programs and in conjunction with the Imagination Foundation’s 3rd Annual Global Cardboard Challenge. Join other creative minds and let your imagination guide your creations. All cardboard and building supplies will be furnished or bring your own from home. Old Town Library, Library Park-West Lawn, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 All is Lost Join a pre-showing discussion and then watch the one-actor film starring Robert Redford. The film depicts how a resourceful sailor navigates his journey after colliding with a shipping container at sea. $7 adult; $6 senior/student. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. Discussion begins at 6:30pm; film begins at 7 pm. Doors open at 6:15 pm. 970962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Echoes to Bugles: Too-Cute Meets TooCute Miniature versions of things often impress us as cute. At maybe two-thirds the size of a Red Fox, the Swift Fox is just too cute! Appearance or behavior also can impress us as cute. Whereas a Norway Rat is homely, a kangaroo-rat is just too cute. But where the Swift Foxes and kangaroo-rats live together, cuteness matters not at all. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 12noon. 888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 ResumeMaker Step-by-Step Learn how to create an account with ResumeMaker and flesh out a resume you can take anywhere. You will learn how to add modules to your resume, which style is right for you, and how to save, edit and export your resume.

(Participants should have a current email address.) Registration required. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 2pm.

888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 NoCo Nature Festival A free day of fun and learning for the whole family that includes live animals, interactive activities, music, food, vendors, presentations, giveaways, a nature costume contest and more. Free parking and shuttle available. Nix Farm Natural Area, 1745 Hoffman Mill Road, FC. 7am-3pm. 970-679-4489 or larimer. org/noconaturefestival.

Pioneer Living Day See what life was like over 100 years ago. Event includes draft horse models, a blacksmith, miniature hay stacking models,spinning and quilting demos, photo booth with animals and trolley rides. Bring a picnic lunch. Ice cream and lemonade available for purchase. Bee Family Centennial Farm Museum, 4320 E. County Road 58, FC. 970-482-9168 or www.beefamilyfarm.org.

The Dinner Detective An interactive murder mystery dinner show. $59. Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 6:15pm. www. midtownartscenter.com or 970-225-2555.

Brad Fitch and the TropiCowboy Band’s Salute to John Denver Join Fitch and his band as they remember John Denver–the man, his music, his message and his memory.

Enjoy their spirited renditions of Denver’s most loved tunes, which they perform in a fun and lively style yet with great reverence for the late poet laureate of Colorado. $20. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 970962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 George Gray and the Elvis Experience Band This Elvis Tribute show will highlight the songs that Elvis loved to sing while recreating what an authentic Elvis concert would have been like back when the King was alive. $15 adult; $13 senior/student. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Tune Up Your Computer Remember when you first bought your computer and it ran like a dream? Now you’re bogged down with ads, programs, malware and your system is slowing down to a crawl. Learn a few tricks to rejuvenate your system. Bring your own laptop or just come and learn about ways you can speed up your system.

Registration required. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6pm. 888861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

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time out

Courage among cockroaches Twenty-seven roll models teach Pura Vida

RICHARD KELLER

I

have 27 new role models. No, this has nothing to do with the cast of a reality show or, Heaven forbid, the current roster of the Colorado Rockies.

The new role models are the students of Fort Collins’ Webber Middle School who braved rain, bugs, humidity and stinky clothing to embrace their 10-day journey to Costa Rica back in July.

This wasn’t a typical tourist trip to the jewel of Central America. There were no days lounging on the beach or extended shopping trips in the capital of San Jose. In fact, we spent only a day and a half in the country’s main city. Working with the group Global Explorers, these teens immersed themselves in the environment, economy and different aspects of society that comprise Costa Rica.

They hiked through miles of rain and cloud forest, journeyed across the jungle canals of the Tortugrero National Park in monsoon rains, waited two hours on a darkened airport runway for a chance to see a sea turtle nesting on a black sand beach of the Caribbean Sea, zip-lined across a half-mile of forest canopy at 40 miles per hour and were barraged and bitten by any number of native bugs, including cockroaches and cicadas.

And throughout the entire trip the parent chaperones, including myself, barely heard a peep of complaint from them.

The adults probably complained more.

I wasn’t surprised. Despite the fact these kids were transported from a fairly dry and cosmopolitan area to one with rustic condition and constant humidity, I saw strength in them from the first meeting in the library of Webber Middle School. These were bright and intelligent individuals excited at the opportunities the itinerary presented to them.

Sure, they acted like normal teens in this and other pre-trip sessions; however, there was a gleam of adventure in their eyes as they pictured themselves hiking

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in the pitch darkness of the rain forest at night, learning Latin dances or kayaking down the Puerto Viejo Rio. The proudest moments I experienced were during the two service projects we took part in during our journey.

The first one involved the construction of a tire playground at a primary school in the town of Sarapiqui. The students were able to build two sections of the play area in water-saturated ground.

And even when the rains came down again, all of the kids returned to their projects to finish them up before we moved on to our next destination. They even managed to bond with a group of non-English speaking scouts that came to assist us.

The other project took place at the end of the trip in an area of San Jose known as La Carpio. A former refugee camp for Nicaraguans fleeing the Sandinistas back in the 1980s, La Carpio is now comprised of corrugated tin houses among open sewers and piles of garbage. Yet, no matter how much poverty

the kids saw or the smells they took in, the students worked their hardest to beautify a neighborhood by cleaning the streets, replanting a garden and decorating the front of a house with an imaginative mural. There was never an “Oh, good thing we’re so much better off ” comment from anyone. Instead, the teens asked if there was any more they could do to help the proud citizens of La Carpio. In the end, everyone exhibited a sense of pure life, or Pura Vida, that is the motto of the country.

At times, the world certainly seems like a dreary and hopeless place. Yet, when I think about my 27 new role models and the way they handled themselves in Costa Rica, I feel there’s a better future for all of us. I’m certainly looking forward to what these kids will do to make more of the world a better place.

Richard Keller is an author and proud parent/chaperone from Fort Collins. For more information on what Global Explorers has to offer go to www.globalexplorers.org.

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