RM Parent Magazine | SEPTEMBER | 2023

SEPTEMBER 2023 • RMPARENT.COM

Quality time

with your kids

Five signs your toddler is toilet ready

September in St. George

Local tours Adult + child programs

INSIDE Foraging for local foods during the winter

SPECIAL SECTION: After the Bell CELEBRATING 27 YEARS OF SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO FAMILIES

RMPARENT

|1

PAYING CA$H FOR KIDS STUFF BUYING

ALL SEASONS

EVERY DAY!

Ages 2 1/2 through 5 years • 9am-12pm

Preschool is 9am-12pm • Pre-K is 8:45am-1pm

COLORADO SHINES LEVEL 4 PROGRAM

NEW STORE HOURS:

Monday-Saturday 11am to 7pm and Sunday: 11am to 6pm onceuponachild.com | Like us on Facebook B E

2 | RMPARENT

Christian values • Small class sizes • Experienced staff Remodeled Classrooms • Nonprofit ministry 970.226.2341 | MorningGloryPreschoolFC.org 301 East Drake Road | Fort Collins

RMPARENT

|3

What in the heck is a

kolache? e?

Sweet, Savory, Homemade!

Family owned and operated

970-286-2834 Family owned and 1717operated S. College Ave. Fort9702862834 Collins, 80525

www.coloradokolachecompany.com 1717 s college ave ft collins 80525

www.ColoradoKolacheCompany.com

HEALTH STARTS DURING CHILDHOOD

YOUR

Adventure Begins

Request for research participants!

WHAT IS THIS STUDY ABOUT?

Clothes

Researchers from the Health WHAT WILL I BE and Exercise Science Dept.

ASKED TO DO? at Colorado State University You will be asked to are studying the relationship complete a survey about between gardening and child your child’s physical activity, health behaviors. diet and gardening activities.

The survey will take 10-15 WHO CAN minutes to complete.

Toys Books Shoes Baby Gifts Maternity

PARTICIPATE?

Parents of children ages of 6-14. Your family does not need to garden to participate!

HOW DO I TAKE THE SURVEY? Scan the QR code!

For questions, contact Ashley Perrault: (970) 829- 1912 ashley.perrault@colostate.edu CSU IRB PROTOCOL #4485

4 | RMPARENT

Shop in-store, by phone or at ClothesPony.com

! $ (970) 224-2866 • 111 N. College Ave.

contents

DEPARTMENTS 6 Perspective

The most important thing

8 Family

Health

Five signs your toddler is toilet ready

10 Family Fun

Adult + child programs for art, music and more

12 F avorite Things

Local tours—By bicycle, by Jeep and in the company of cows

14 Family

Travels

Road trip—September in Saint George, Utah

30 C ommunity news

Youth climate event, free job training, new park and suicide prevention walk

32 C alendar

FEATURE 18 Quality time with kids

Find time daily to connect with your child. When you’re driving, dinner, bedtime, give your child your undivided attention. Shared activities are also a great way to connect.

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

34 Time

out

The Mama Bear Harvest Season 2023

INSIDE

LOCAL FOOD AND FARM GUIDE

Find tips for local foraging of mushrooms, strawberries, asparagus… Seek local sources for meats and cheeses and reap the benefits of the fall harvest at farm stands and farmers markets.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS 22 Greeley-Evans D6

Danielle Bock named Woman of Distinction, New James Madison Steam Academy

Winter foraging INSIDE

Your guide to farm stands and farmers’ markets GROWING SEASON 2021

|1

24 P oudre

Welcoming new educators in style, Back-toschool resources, School supply drive

26 T hompson

Northern Colorado Regional Youth Shelter Project receives $4.7 Million in state funding

SPECIAL SECTION Browse activities and enrichment opportunities for your kids and family.

RMPARENT

|5

Perspective

SCOTT TITTERINGTON

The most important thing WE HAVE A LITTLE QUESTION SERIES that the kids and I still spring on each other. It goes like this: Q: What time is it?

A: Now. (The idea is to trick them into actually telling you the time, at which point you look at them with utter disappointment.)

Q: Where are we?

A: Here (By the second question, it’s clear where we’re going.)

Q: What is the most important thing?

A: This moment (Though Aly will often blurt out “me” and then smile.)

Although it’s become kind of a game, it still serves to bring us all back to the moment, right now, when we’re together. It’s so easy to be together and, well, not together when we’re together. First, we all have the usual clutter going on in our heads about what did Whoosy mean when she said such-and-such about so-and-so or what’s going to happen today at the meeting and am I prepared for it or will I look like knucklehead—again!

And then there’s the No. 1 offender of not being here, now in this most important moment—our devices, mainly the ones that fit in our hands and provide a constant stream of distraction from all the actual things going on around us in what I like to think of as the real world, though admittedly the distinction is blurring.

When we’re sitting at the table with our kids, we are the worst offenders of pulling out our phones, checking our messages, listening to a voicemail. Now that we’re into a second generation of devices, we, as parents, and gulp, grandparents, are as seduced by our shiny toys as anyone.

Lynn Nichols has written a feature story about carving out quality time in our busy worlds to connect with kids. Right up front she reminds us that the most important job we have is to connect as a family and spend quality time with our kids. She says that giving your kids your undivided attention shows that you care and that they are loved and valued.

Katie Harris continues her road-trip series with a four-day excursion to southwest Utah. Talk about an opportunity to be here, now, in this most important moment! First you have that long drive. Sure you might watch a show to pass a little time, but you have 10 hours in a small space to talk and laugh and play silly I Spy travel games. And then when you get there, you have all that exploring together.

Over the years, we’ve found that reminding each other what time it is and where we are and what’s the most important thing has helped us give each other the attention that we all want and deserve.

To this moment, Scott

6 | RMPARENT

SEPTEMBER 2023 • Volume 27, Issue 4 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Harting susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com COVER PHOTO

istock photo

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson Katie Harris, Lynn U. Nichols

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 Voice 221-9210 • Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2023 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNER:

Call and ask about our

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL! We treat beyond the teeth!

• Gentle Kids Dentistry • No-Extraction Orthodontics • Emergency Appointments Available

970-635-4353 • 126 E. 29th St. (next to Loveland DMV ) • www.neo-smiles.com/loveland RMPARENT

|7

Family Health LYNN U. NICHOLS

Five signs your toddler is toilet ready AS A PARENT OF A BABY OR TODDLER, no doubt you are looking forward to the day you can ditch the diapers. The expense to you and the environment alone are reasons enough, but not having to change a dirty diaper ever again is the major win. The trick with toilet training is not letting your anticipation of the finish line motivate you to start too soon. If you try before your child is ready, you set yourself up for relapses and frustration. That’s because toilet training is not really about training, it’s about readiness—and it’s her physical body that decides that. So, how do you know when it’s time?

Some kids show early interest, but may not have all the physical skills to follow through. Here are the top five signs that your child is ready to use the toilet.

3. Gives play-by-play or hides when goes Hiding is a sure sign that she is getting the message that when you poop or pee, you go off and do it alone. It’s also a sign that she’s becoming aware of her bodily functions. Also, if she wants to run around naked sometimes, let her—being naked can motivate her to seek out the toilet, but also feeling the pee flow down her leg gives her immediate feedback of how it all works.

1. Going at regular times

Toddlers are ready to tackle the toilet when they have regular bowel movements and show signs of holding off the urge to go. Does your toddler wake up dry after a nap or stay dry for hours? Does he go #2 at fairly consistent times during the day? Does he jump up and down like a jack rabbit, pull at his pants, squat, or make a screwed up face when he needs to go? If so, he may be ready!

4. Knows how to undress Being potty-ready takes a lot of motor skills. A big requirement is if he can pull his pants up and down and climb up on the toilet. Some parents swear by pull-ups as a gentle move from diapers to underwear, others think they are confusing to kids.

To make it work, treat them like underwear and take your toddler to the bathroom at regular intervals.

2. Shows curiosity about the toilet Another part of readiness is when your child has an ah-ha moment when it comes to the toilet. This mental awareness includes knowing that the toilet replaces diapers and that no diaper means dry pants. A sign your child has cleared this mental hurdle occurs if he knows potty talk, like pee, poop, wet, dry, messy, potty, flush. Another sign is that he’s curious about the toilet and watches or asks questions while you or an older child are using it—let him watch and learn.

Once your child seems ready, you can help her by tuning into her patterns and presenting the toilet at key times.

Mornings are often a sure bet. Now’s the time to put a training toilet in

8 | RMPARENT

5. Dislikes feeling wet

Is your child starting to tell you that her diaper needs to be changed? Or, is she tugging at her diaper and fussing? Toilet training happens when your child realizes she doesn’t like being wet or soiled. It takes your child’s physical readiness—like being able to hold it—to make it stick.

the bathroom or her bedroom and letting her know it’s her big girl toilet, but don’t insist that she use it. If she does, give praise. Talk about the potty in a positive way. Read books and

watch videos about using the potty.

Eventually, she’ll react to your praise and begin using it more frequently. In no time, diaper days will be a thing of the past.

BLOOM

AT THE GARDENS ON SPRING CREEK! » Explore 12 acres of curated botanic gardens » Visit our tropical Butterfly House with 300+ North American butterflies » Visit the largest collection of cold hardy cacti in the area » Perfect your techniques with our gardening classes » Stretch your limbs with yoga and tai chi

Plan your visit at fcgov.com/gardens

!

E

W G NO LLIN O NR

At Arts and Imagination we believe in a thoughtfull development of art, academics, and peace education.

Arts and Imagination is a fresh approach to early childhood education.

We view children as capable, strong, resilient and overflowing with knowledge, curiosity and potential. We value their thought journey and foster learning through our unique program.

2430 W. Prospect Rd. | Fort Collins, CO | 970-556-3759 | ArtsAndImagination.com RMPARENT

|9

Family Fun

THERESA BAER

Check out art, music, pottery and storytimes

y Classes er

A

rt & Pott

Library Programs • CLEARVIEW LIBRARY, WINDSOR Offers storytimes and crafts for ages 0–5 and family programs such as art challenges, STEAM hour, book clubs and BINGO. www.clearviewlibrary.org • ESTES VALLEY LIBRARY

Offers a variety of storytimes with books and songs for ages 0–6 plus kids yoga storytime for ages 4–10. www. estesvalleylibrary.org • LOVELAND

• C HILSON RECREATION CENTER, LOVELAND You and Me Clay series with options this fall for piggy banks, haunted house and ornaments. Ages 2.5–5 or 6–12 years. $32. www.lovgov.org/ services/parks-recreation/publications/activity-guide • F LINGIN’ POTS, FORT COLLINS Offers workshops for all ages including Tot Clay (ages 1–6), wheel throwing (ages 7+), make’n’paint gnomes, raku owls and more. www.flinginpots.com/classes • F ORT COLLINS POTTERY STUDIO Offerings this fall include parent/tot handbuilding, parent/teen handbuilding and sculpture or wheelthrowing, and a family raku workshop. Ages 3+, varies by class. Prices vary. www.fcgov.com/recreation • L OVELAND MUSEUM KID + ADULT ART CLASSES Options this fall include acrylic painting, clay, alcohol ink and wool felting creating pet portraits, animals or holiday decor. Ages 6-11 with an adult; $40 non-member, $32 Museum member (fees are per child, per class.) www.thelovelandmuseum.org/kid-adult-art-classes

Music Classes

• U NION COLONY CHILDREN’S MUSIC ACADEMY, GREELEY Offers classes for ages birth–6 with caregiver, including adaptive/ inclusive classes. Prices vary. www.unioncolonychildrensmusic.org • LOVELAND RECREATION

Musical Toddler classes for ages 1.3–3.5 or Musical Child classes for ages 3–5, both with caregiver. $49. https://shorturl.at/cFNP9

10 | RMPARENT

Offers a variety of family storytimes in English and Spanish with books, songs, yoga and learning activities for ages 0–5.

Additional events happen such as People in Your Neighborhood for ages 2–5, and more. www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org • HIGH PLAINS LIBRARIES

Offers various family storytimes for ages 3–5 with stories, songs, fingerplays, music and STEM-based maker activities. www. mylibrary.evanced.info/signup • P OUDRE LIBRARIES, FORT COLLINS Offers events and storytimes for all ages with caregivers that include talking, singing, reading, writing, playing and crafts. Spanish and other world languages also offered. www.poudrelibraries.org

• FOUNDATIONS MUSIC SCHOOL, FORT COLLINS

Offers various family classes for ages 0+. $15–120. www.foundationmusicschool. org/programs/family-music • LET’S PLAY MUSIC, FORT COLLINS OR WINDSOR

Offers Sound Beginnings (ages 0–4), Let’s Play Music (ages 4–6) and Presto (ages 7–12) with parent attendance varying by age. Prices vary. www.letsplaymusicsite.com

RMPARENT

| 11

Favorite Things

LEA HANSON

Local Tours Front Range Ride Guides https://frontrangerideguides.com/ This growing organization is passionate about sharing their brand of riding with others and they aim to make every experience fun, friendly, and exciting. They tailor every guided Colorado bike tour, from casual family rides to full-on Rocky Mountain single track riding adventures.

In addition to the tours, FRRG also offers mountain biking skills clinics and repair classes. These beginner classes teach fundamental understanding of how a bike works and how it should be cared for; seasoned riders learn how to maintain their bike at home; and trail riders learn vital trail side repair skills for when they’re out in the mountains.

Rooted in Greeley

Rooted in Fort Collins PHOTO COURTESY OF FRONT RANGE RIDE GUIDES

Green Jeep Tour https://www.greenjeeptour.com/ Green Jeep Tours offers unique and custom tours of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Estes Park area. If you are looking for fun, informative, and unique activities in Estes Park for you and your family, check it out. Their iconic green jeeps drive you around to experience Colorado’s spectacular mountain scenery and abundant wildlife.

One of the best options for families is the “Ruttin’ Around Elk Viewing” in Estes Park and around Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s available September 8 through October 18 and lasts 2-2.5 hours.

Morning Fresh Dairy Farm Tour www.morningfreshdairy.com/tours-and-events/farm-tours.html A wonderful option for families and groups. Especially those looking to teach and show their little ones where some of their food comes from and how the life cycle works. Tours start and end at the Howling Cow Café where participants sample Morning Fresh milk and receive a free Noosa yoghurt! Tour participants get to learn about local farming and what it means for our community, see where crops are grown, meet the cows who make your milk ( AND pet a baby calf), and see the beautiful countryside our cows call home at the mouth of the Poudre Canyon.

Tours can be easily booked online. Tours are $6 and will last up to an hour and a half. Private tours are available upon request and will cost $120 per group for up to 20 people.

12 | RMPARENT

Rooted in Bellvue

KEEP YOUR KIDS

HEALTHY WE TREAT KIDS FOR:

Allergies, digestion, mood disorders, stress and more using a gentle, non-needle technique

Traditional Chinese Medical Clinic (970) 416-0444

700 W Mountain Ave

Fort Collins CO 80521

TcmClinic.org

RMPARENT

| 13

Family Travels

KATIE HARRIS

September in St. George ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING DESTINATIONS in the state of Utah, St. George is a hub for outdoor adventure. The city’s gorgeous views, proximity to a number of state and national parks, and mild year-round weather make it a can’t-miss in our road trip series.

Day 1: A 10-hour drive will find you in St. George, in the southwest corner of Utah, where, thanks to a booming tourist industry, an abundance of lodging options await you. After checking in to your abode for the next few days, take a trip to Pioneer Park, where 50-plus acres of red rock awaits you. Climb the various formations, creep through the slot canyons and, at the end of the evening, trek up to Dixie Rock to watch the sun set (www.sgcity.org/pioneerpark/).

Day 4: On your last day in St. George, enjoy breakfast at the scenic Tuacahn Amphitheatre (www.tuacahn.org/) before heading to the Kayenta Art Village to peruse local masterpieces (www.kayentaartvillage. com/). Spend the afternoon at the lovely Red Hills Desert Garden, where you might just want to bring a book along and curl up on one of the many shaded benches throughout the garden (redhillsdesertgarden. com/). Round out your day with a climb and a dip in the reservoir at Gunlock State Park before getting a good night’s rest ahead of your drive home the following morning (stateparks.utah.gov/parks/gunlock/).

Day 2:

With its hilly terrain and extensive paved trail network, St. George provides the perfect opportunity to try your hand at e-biking. We recommend picking up bikes for the whole family at Kova Rentals (www.kovarentals. com), then taking the trail into Snow Canyon State Park (stateparks.utah.gov/ parks/snow-canyon/) where you can climb a sand dune or descend into an ancient lava tube before continuing your half day loop through St. George.

In the afternoon, cool off with a dip in Ivin’s Reservoir as you take in the rainbow of colors in the layered rocks surrounding the park (wchsutah.org/parks/fire-lake-park. php). We recommend strolling St. George’s historic district for dinner and shopping that evening.

Day 3:

14 | RMPARENT

Drive to the neighboring city of Hurricane, where your guide from ATV and Jeep Adventures will be waiting for you with your ATVs or UTVs to explore Sand Hollow State Park (atvadventures.com/).

When booking your reservation, we suggest adding the optional zipline and rappel package for an even greater adventure (ages 5 and up).

Later that day, continue on to Zion National Park (www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm) for a hike on the Emerald Pools Trail. Hike to just one pool for a 1.2 mile round-trip trek, or see all three on the full, 2.5 mile loop. On your way back to St. George, be sure to stop by the Grafton Cemetery and Ghost Town (www.visitutah.com/Places-To-Go/Parks-Outdoors/Zion/Outdoor-Experiences/Grafton-Trail) for a unique piece of the area’s history, and explore what life was like in the 19th Century.

RMPARENT

| 15

visit rmparent magazine online for: community news school lunch menus family activities events calendar

16 | RMPARENT

.com

INGe ! t h e T v i A GCELEBR AR S Gif Become a

h t l a e H Healer

of

34 Y E

All Natural Lotions For Sale

NC I A L AID & SCHOL ARS FINA H I P S AV

A IL A B L E F O R T H O

S E W H O Q U A L IF Y

GIFT CARDS FOR SALE

Call to schedule your massage.

970-353-1047

Student therapists available at discounted rates.

www.natural-therapy.com | 625 8th Ave. | Greeley

Get Away

Close to Home Yet Far Away ~ Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, 80545

Book Your

Fall Vacation NOW

Visit us on Facebook for upcoming events.

Lodging, Campground, Restaurant & Bar, Hiking, Fishing, Disk Golf & More

www.beavermeadows.com • 970-881-2450

RMPARENT

| 17

Carving out time to really connect

Lynn U Nichols

Quality tim e with kids WITH SO MANY ACTIVITIES TO JUGGLE, it’s easy to get sucked into the busy-ness of our lives and forget what’s really important – connecting as a family and spending quality time with our kids. Taking the time to stop and have meaningful interactions not only makes your family relations more harmonious, but it also builds your kids’ self-worth. Here’s a few ideas on how to fit connecting and quality time into your hectic days.

18 | RMPARENT

Make the most of school drives, dinners, and bedtime Giving your kids undivided attention – when you are only focused on their face rather than looking at your phone or doing a chore – shows that you care. Fit in as many moments of true connection that you can every day because it’s the glue that holds your family together.

“Spending quality time with your kids shows them that they are loved and valued. Kids who feel connected to their families

tend to have fewer behavioral issues and better selfesteem. They also learn how to connect with others,” says Kristy Coventry, MA, LPCC, a child and adolescent therapist with Sunbound Therapy in Fort Collins.

Quality time is focused time, with no distractions. One of the easiest ways to fit in dedicated quality time is to do it when it feels most natural – in the evening when you are packing lunches for school together, during the bedtime routine, and during the drives

from school or practice to home. These activities are built in to every day and are great opportunities to stop, listen, and show interest in your kids lives.

If you have a preteen or teen, try bringing up a concern or asking an openended question to gain more information about a topic you are interested in while in the car. There’s something about driving that makes it easier to talk. Like with walking, you can share without having to look into

your teen’s eyes, which can make hard topics flow more easily for them.

If you don’t do it already, start having family dinners – at the table with the television off, and no phones allowed. Studies link regular family dinners to the overall wellbeing of children.

“It’s these routine moments that let you have conversations about dayto-day life and learn what’s coming up for your kids,” Coventry adds.

Create regular no-screen time The best way to connect is to eliminate distractions – and we all get distracted by our cell phones. Make it a family habit to have regular no-screen time at least a few times a week. It’s when everyone puts their phone on the kitchen counter and you go do something fun together – like riding bikes to the park, walking the dog, or playing a board game.

There’s power in doing nothing but playing together.

“Screen time has some positives, like helping older kids stay in touch with their peers, but when kids get too much screen time it tends

to disconnect them from the world. It can become a way to escape feelings,” Coventry says.

Encourage kids to tag along on errands and household chores Having kids join in on fun household chores, like planting a garden, harvesting, folding laundry, or making simple dinners tells them you like to have them around. It also gives you another chance to connect during a busy day.

During the task, give positive messages, like ‘I know you can do it’ or specific praise on what you like about the way they’re doing the chore to help build your kids’ self-esteem.

As parents, you are the most important people in your kids’ lives, and they want to spend time with you – at least until the preteen years – and even then, it’s important to make it happen.

When you give your kids the message that you want them around, you enjoy them, your face lights up when you see them, and that you really care about what’s happening in their lives, they feel loved and worthy of love.

“When kids feel loved

and valued, they operate from a perspective of connection rather than one of disconnection. It changes the whole world for them,” Coventry says. “With more love and attention, I’ve watched kids with behavioral problems start regulating their actions and calming themselves. It’s really special to see those shifts happen.”

Bond over simple activities You might not have time during a busy work/school day to take your kids to the library or the park, but you probably have time to walk around the block or play a quick game of catch in the yard. These simple, fun activities done regularly help create real bonds.

Also, shared activities can become weekly habits that help give your family definition and stability.

“While you are together, laugh at something funny that happens, or sing a song together,” adds Coventry.

There’s no magic number when it comes to quality time. Each child has their own needs about how much attention they require. Do

what’s reasonable. When you have a few hours to spend, do it. When you don’t, fit in five minutes whenever you can during the day.

“Even small increments of quality time add up and show benefits of better behavior, stronger mental and emotional health, and academic improvements,” Coventry says.

Quality time is different through the years – young kids might need constant small doses of attention where a teen might need a good check-in every few days. Do your best to listen and engage without judgment or the urge to lecture. When you send the message that you care about them unconditionally, and that you believe in their ability to handle things, your preteens and teens will share with you more freely.

“Validating your kids feelings is huge. When you help them identify emotions, they feel seen and understood,” Coventry concludes.

You got this. All it takes is a conscious effort to look for opportunities to connect, and doing it as often as you can.

RMPARENT

| 19

20 | RMPARENT

Harvest Season 2023

LOCAL FOOD AND FARM GUIDE

Winter foraging INSIDE

Your guide to farm stands and farmers’ markets GROWING SEASON 2021

|1

All Natural makes all the difference.

WE OFFER

Everything you eat starts with how it is raised and how it gets to you. Know what you and your family are eating.

• Black Angus cattle selected for high marbling genetics, locally farm-raised in large pastures in a low stress environment • NEVER EVER given antibiotics, hormones, or steroids or fed animal by-products • Available by quarter, half, or whole, cut and packaged just the way you want it • Dry-aged for tender, moist, consistently great flavor.

www.blueskyfarmcolorado.com (970) 222-7147 • Rbluesky8@msn.com • Windsor, CO Please request a cutting instruction sheet to place your order.

LET US SHARE WHOLESOME, NUTRITIOUS, AND SAFE NATURAL BEEF WITH A TASTE YOU CAN TRUST.

Get Away

Close to Home Yet Far Away ~ Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, 80545

Book Your

Fall Vacation NOW

Visit us on Facebook for upcoming events.

Lodging, Campground, Restaurant & Bar, Hiking, Fishing, Disk Golf & More 2|

www.beavermeadows.com • 970-881-2450

GROWING SEASON 2021

HOMES/JOBS NEEDED FOR

Working Cats • Shop Cats • Warehouse Cats • Barn Cats • OUTBUILDING Cats • Brewery Cats

SavingAnimalsToday.org /workingcats

TNR (Trap/Neuter/Return) Do you have a feral cat colony on your property?

Let us help! Contact our Community Cat Program at: (970) 233-5133.

RiDE on 2023 Ride is out now!

Visit your local bike shop to pick up your FREE copy.

ride-magazine.com

To advertise in RiDE, call Greg or Scott.

Support business that supports bicycling.

In Fort Collins call Greg Hoffman 970-689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com

All others call Scott Titterington 970-980-9183 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

GROWING SEASON 2021

|3

Foraging for local foods during the

winter

Lea Hanson

F

or some Coloradans, the double payoff of being out in nature and having the ability to round up incredible things to eat is a major selling point of living in the Centennial State. Foraging locally offers the opportunity to track down and harvest everything from mushrooms professional chefs pine to cook with to an array of sweet, tart, and colorful fruit. But first, a word of caution. It is dangerous to harvest and eat food you cannot properly identify. The following information is intended to be fun and educational, not instructional. It’s crucial to be 100-percent sure what you eat is safe and identifiable during the entire foraging process.

4|

GROWING SEASON 2021

VEGETABLES Wild asparagus—Asparagus makes an incredibly versatile and tasty addition to any meal. Expert foragers claim the taste of wild asparagus compared to the varieties offered in grocery stores doesn’t compare. Asparagus is perennial, which means you’ll find it growing in the same spot every year.

MUSHROOMS Morels—If you’re a fan of mushrooms, the nutty taste of black and yellow morels is something you don’t forget.

The fact these mushrooms are incredibly elusive makes them even more coveted by foragers and professional chefs.

While forest fires are a constant source of anxiety and despair for much of

Colorado, forested areas that have experienced fire events offer some of the best opportunities to find morels.

Porcini—Found in the high country between elevations of 10,500 and 11,200 feet, the porcini is a highmaintenance mushroom when it comes to weather, and it won’t grow without a combination of monsoon rains and sustained summer heat.

FRUIT Wild Strawberries—Most people love strawberries, but when it comes to locally foraging for these astoundingly sweet, juicy, and berries, you’ll need to think much smaller compared to the conventional varieties you’d buy at the store. If you’ve ever hiked through the

BUY LOCAL

All Year Long Jodar Farms: jodarfarms.com

Jodar Farms offers an online farm store with weekly drop offs at many convenient Northern Colorado locations. They sell hogs (half and whole) as well as eggs all year long.

MouCo Cheese Company: mouco.com

Made locally in Fort Collins, You can find MouCo Cheese at most King Soopers, Safeway and Whole Foods Markets in the Rocky Mountain Region as well as at specialty shops and cheese stores throughout the area.

Mountain View Meats: mvmeatsfc.com

Located in Fort Collins, Mountain View Meats raises their animals humanely and works to feed their community. They sell bulk beef and pork.

Remember: Farmers Markets Go Through Fall ’

Berthoud Fickel Farmers’ Market | Berthoud June 8 to September 21 Thursdays from 4 to 7pm

Estes Valley Farmers’ Market | Estes Park June 3 to September 30 Thursdays from 8am to 1pm

Farmers’ Market at Fairgrounds Park | Loveland June 4 to September 24 Sundays from 9am to 1pm

Fort Collins Farmers’ Market | Fort Collins May 7 to November 12 Sundays from 10am to 2pm June 14 to September 27 Wednesdays from 10am to 2pm

Greeley Farmers’ Market | Greeley May 6 to October 18 Saturdays from 8am to 12pm

Larimer County Farmers’ Market | Fort Collins May 20 to October 28 Saturdays from 9am to 1pm

mountains and saw tiny red fruit that resembled strawberries, what you saw might very well have been wild Colorado strawberries. You can also spot berry clusters similar to raspberries, which are quite delectable. Your best bet for finding these is late spring and early summer. With adorable tiny red berries that emerge in summer, wild strawberry plants can be identified by their blue-green leaves, small groupings of white flowers, and long red stems. While you’ll need to harvest loads of berries to cook with or snack on due to their small size, their unforgettable sweet taste will be worth the extra effort. High in Vitamin C, the leaves and berries of these plants can be steeped for a delicious tea.

Wild Plums—Discovering a wild plum tree in Colorado is pure joy for most local foragers. These trees are found near streams and irrigation ditches in the foothills and across the plains. In spring, wild plum trees are adorned with a stunning explosion of white flowers.

Later in the summer, sweet purple, blue, and reddish fruit appear on the trees that can be harvested before the fall. Wild plums are incredible when eaten fresh and are excellent for all manner of jams and jellies.

GROWING SEASON 2021

|5

CACTI Prickly Pear—As you’d expect, dealing with this cactus’ sharp needles is no picnic. But for tenacious foragers willing to put in the work, they’re a rewarding natural offering that’s as bountiful as they are easy to find. Thick gloves are mandatory while harvesting

6|

GROWING SEASON 2021

prickly pear, but not for the reason you’d expect. Its long needles (spines) can easily poke through the skin of your hands, but the prickly pear’s tiny hairlike needles are what usually cause the most pain and irritation.

The edible parts of the prickly pear can be split up into three

sections: the green pad, or base of the cactus, the flowers, and the colorful fruit that grows at the top of the plant. Small younger plants are thought to be much tastier than older ones. Because of Colorado’s dry climate, prickly pears can be found throughout the state.

2023 NoCo Farmers Markets Berthoud’s Fickel Farmers Market Fickel Park, 620 Mountain Ave., Berthoud Thursdays, 4–7pm, June 8–Sept. 21 www.berthoud.org/1385/Farmers-Market Erie Farmers Market Briggs Street between Wells and Moffatt, Erie Thursdays, 5–8pm, May 1–Sept. 14 www.realfarmersmarketco.com Estes Valley Farmers Market Visitor Center, 500 Big Thompson Ave., EP Thursdays, 8am–1pm, June 1–Sept. 28 www.facebook.com/EstesValleyFarmersMarket Farmers Market at Fairgrounds Park 700 S. Railroad Ave., Loveland Sundays, 9am–1pm, June 4–Sept. 24 www.cityofloveland.org/farmersmarket

Fort Collins Farmers Market 1001 E. Harmony Rd., FC (rain or shine) Sundays, 10am–2pm, May 7–Nov. 12 Wednesdays, 10am–2pm, June 14–Sept. 27 www.fortcollinsfarmersmarket.org

Loveland West Farmers Market at Jax 2665 W Eisenhower Blvd, LV Tuesdays, 9am–1pm, April 18–Nov. 7 www.facebook.com/ LovelandWestFarmersMarket

Greeley Summer Farmers Market Union Pacific Depot, 902 7th Ave., GR Saturdays, 8am–Noon, May 6–Oct. 28 www.greeleygov.com/fm

Timnath Sunday Market 4138 Main St., Timnath Second Sundays, 9am–2pm, May–Oct www.TimnathFarmersMarket.org

Larimer County Farmers Market 200 S. Oak St., FC (courthouse parking lot) Saturdays, 9am–1pm, May 20–Oct. 28 www.larimercountyfarmersmarket.org

Windsor Farmers Market Boardwalk Park, 110 5th St., Windsor Saturdays, 8am–12:30pm, June 3–Sept. 9 www.windsorgov.com/FarmersMarket

FARM STANDS Bartels Farm 3424 E. Douglas Rd., Fort Collins www.thebartelsfarm.com www.facebook.com/The-Bartels-PumpkinPatch-137755902661 Desiderata Ranch 4617 CR 2, Berthoud http://desiderataranch.org Folks Farm & Seed 2917 S. Taft Hill Rd., Fort Collins www.folksfarmandseed.com Garden Sweet 719 W. Willox Ln., Fort Collins www.gardensweet.com Green Dog Farm 3421 West CR 54G, Laporte (next to Overland Foods) www.greendogfarmcsa.com Hazel Dell Mushrooms 3925 E. CR 32 (Carpenter Rd.), Fort Collins www.hazeldellmushrooms.com

Something about being on a farm just feels good. The pace feels relaxed and your interactions, maybe, more genuine. So swing by a farm stand soon and pick up some deliciousness while you’re at it.

Heritage Lavender 4809 Foothills Dr., Berthoud www.heritagelavender.com

Ollin Farms 8627 N. 95th St., Longmont www.ollinfarms.com

Hoffman Farms, LLC 3545 W. O St., Greeley www.hoffmanproduce.com

On the Vine at Richmond Farms 3611 Richmond Dr., Fort Collins https://onthevineatrichmondfarms.com

Hope Farms 1601 N. Shields St., Fort Collins www.cultivatehopeco.org

OwlTree Farm 4605 E. CR 58, Fort Collins www.owltreefarmco.com

Jodar Farms/Fort Collins Vine Farm Order online/pick up Fort Collins or Wellington www.jodarfarms.com

Papa Joe’s Honey 4855 W. Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland www.facebook.com/PapaJoesLocalHoney

Long Shadow Farm Order online/pick up Berthoud www.longshadowfarm.com

Raisin’ Roots Farm 2229 W. Vine Dr., Fort Collins www.facebook.com/raisinroots

Native Hill Farm 2100 CR 54G, Fort Collins www.nativehillfarm.com

Sunny Daze 901 S. CR 5, Fort Collins www.sunnydazegardens.com Tigges Farm 12404 CR 64½, Greeley www.facebook.com/tigges.farm

GROWING SEASON 2021

|7

8|

GROWING SEASON 2021

ADV ERTIS IN G SU PPL EMENT

HOURS:

Fort Collins: 7am -6pm Loveland: 6:30am -6pm

• Universal Pre-K • Infant and Toddler care • Utilize Creative Curriculum • CO Shines level 4 • Financial Assist Available • Dedicated Staff • Nonprofit Agency

teaching-tree.org LOVELAND 2109 Maple Dr. (970) 667-7240

2 | RMPARENT | AFTER THE BELL

FORT COLLINS 424 Pine St. (970) 493-2628

Can’t afford dental care?

Call us!

Fees based on ability to pay Medicaid • CHP+

FAMILY DENTAL CLINIC

Call us for an appointment, 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., M-F

970-416-5331

healthdistrict.org Patients must live in the Health District, have no private dental insurance, and meet income guidelines.

AFTER THE BELL

| RMPARENT | 3

The Dream Starts Here!

Offering gymnastics classes for ages 18 months to 18 years of age in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.

H H Bring in this ad and receive 2 free classes! H H — For new customers only —

• Beginner - Advanced Girls & Boys • Kids Open Gyms

• Summer Camps • Birthday Parties • Competitive Teams • Preschool Classes • Aerial & Parkour Classes

970-663-3173 • Premiergymnastics.net 1410 East 11th Street • Loveland

4 | RMPARENT | AFTER THE BELL

RMPARENT

| 21

School District News: Greeley-Evans D6

Danielle Bock named Woman of Distinction Bock told the sold-out luncheon audience at the Embassy Suites in Loveland.

“I consider myself the chief lunch lady.”

During the last school year, Bock helped influence the Board of Education’s decision to provide free meals to all students after the national pandemic funding for universal meals was halted.

Bock says the real heroes are the 235 nutrition professionals who work tirelessly to serve 20,000 meals daily to District 6 students.

“They are the ones I want to honor,” she says.

GREELEY-EVANS SCHOOL DISTRICT 6 Nutrition Services Director Danielle Bock was named one of the 2023 Women of Distinction

by BizWest publications.

Bock was hired by District 6 in 2014 and took over as Director of Nutrition Services in March 2017.

A self-proclaimed “policy nerd who likes to cook,” Bock has worked to improve access for all children to healthy, nutritious meals at the local, state and national level. She is a member of the International Food Manufacturers Association Food Leadership Council and serves on the Public Policy and Legislative Committee

22 | RMPARENT

for the School Nutrition Association.

Bock was honored as a Woman of Distinction in the field of education.

“It is a remarkable distinction to be told you are considered an educator,”

NEW JAMES MADISON STEAM ACADEMY The new James Madison STEAM Academy will replace the former Madison Elementary School.

Superintendent Dr. Deidre Pilch says, “This would not be possible without the support of voters in Greeley and Evans.

Because of the passage of our bond issue in 2019, the staff, families and students in this neighborhood will have a state-of-the-art education facility that will serve students for decades to come.”

The new school will serve students preschool through eighth grade, and will have a science, technology, engineering, arts and math focus. The new building features a SmartLab, maker spaces, science labs and the latest technology. The school also features a community health clinic, which will operate in partnership with Sunrise Community Health.

The 113,500 square-foot school, which cost nearly $50 million to construction, was designed by Hord, Coplan and Macht, and constructed

by Adolfson and Peterson, the same team that designed and built Greeley West High School, which is also a replacement school.

AB O

OR N

D BEYOND AN DO VE

SCAN HERE An Above and Beyond Donor is an individual or business that commits to a recurring monthly donation of an amount of your choosing – so that it best fits your budget – becoming actively involved in bettering the lives of the children we serve.

SCAN QR TO LEARN MORE OR BECOME AN ABOVE & BEYOND DONOR.

RMPARENT

| 23

School District News: Poudre

Welcoming new educators in style

NOTHING SAYS ARRIVING IN STYLE like a red carpet!

Before the start of the school year, we welcomed our new teachers to Educator Orientation with a special PSD tradition. We’re thrilled to have this talented bunch on board, and we’re excited for the school year ahead!

BACK-TO-SCHOOL RESOURCES We’ve been in school since the middle of August but check out the back-toschool edition of PSD Now for resources that can help all year long. From the 2023-24 calendar to a list of student clubs and more, find answers to frequently asked questions and quick links in PSD Now. https:// conta.cc/45i0k2l SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE The annual School is Cool supply drive brings the community and our partners at OtterCares,

24 | RMPARENT

Colorado State University, and Realities for Children together to help send kids in need of a little extra help back to school with the tools and materials to succeed.

Brenda Hartman, a volunteer at the Bamford Elementary’s Pack Pantry, says student needs for

school supplies are ongoing throughout the school year.

“The Gary Bamford Pack Pantry... opened in January and the need for school supplies was evident well into the school year,” says Hartman. “The cost of school supplies and needed materials at home for

projects and homework is beyond the reach for many families in our community.

The Pack Pantry families greatly appreciated these supplies for their children!”

School supply donations are appreciated! If you have items to donate, please email Feit at dfeit@ psdschools.org. Items that are always needed: • No. 2 pencils • Erasers • Glue sticks • Wide- and college-ruled composition notebooks • Pocket folders • Backpacks of all sizes Please donate new items. Monetary donations in the form of checks are also accepted.

Contributions can also be made online through the “Supply Our School” option in SchoolPay.

Direct Pediatric Care

With DPC, healthcare revolves around your family.

Dr. Hathcock is accepting new members at Arktos Direct Care

970-818-2280 Sarah Hathcock, MD

arktosdirectcare.com

Your partners

in Medicare

• Medicare Advantage • Medigap/Supplement • Part D (prescription drug plan) • Dental, Vision and Hearing plans • Hospital Indemnity • International Travel • Life Insurance • Final Expense

Our Team partners with you to make

(970) 224-5500 | 421 Stover Street, Fort Collins

trozaninsurance.com

Amy Kilber and Lisa Wentz-Kinnison, LICENSED INDEPENDENT AGENTS

understanding your

Medicare options as easy as possible.

Call today!

RMPARENT

| 25

School District News: Thompson

Youth Shelter Project receives $4.7 Million in state funding

THE COLORADO DEPARTMENT of Local Affairs (DOLA) has announced the award of $4.7 million dollars that will be utilized to build and launch a Northern Colorado overnight shelter and daytime drop-in center for youth and young adults ages 15-20. The shelter will be located at 814 E. 16th Street in Loveland, the former site of Thompson School District’s Monroe Early Childhood Center.

Collaborative partners for the project include Thompson School District, Poudre School District, The Matthews House, Thompson Education Foundation, Larimer County and several local

26 | RMPARENT

nonprofit organizations.

The Northern Colorado Regional Youth Shelter project is designed to address a gap in service for youth and young adults.

Currently, infrastructure to support housing insecurity in the region is built around the needs of adults. The nearest youth shelters are located 45-60 miles away and are out of reach for many due to very limited public transportation. The new facility, which will be operated by The Matthews House, will address the immediate needs of unaccompanied youth and provide trauma-informed care to support their mental health, help them stay in school and graduate, and

provide enrichment activities to build a more inclusive community. The shelter will have the capacity to serve approximately 25 individuals on an overnight basis, as well as 15-20 people for drop-in support.

Design work for the shelter is currently underway and community meetings will be scheduled this fall to share additional information.

For Thompson School District, the project provided an opportunity to work with regional partners on a critical effort, while continuing to utilize a building that has long served the district community. “Thompson School District is proud to work with our valued partners and serve as the

host location for the NoCo Regional Youth Shelter,” said Superintendent Dr. Marc Schaffer. “As educators, we know that students are not able to learn and grow to their fullest potential if their basic needs are not being met. The services that will be offered through this shelter will provide critical support to youth in need throughout our community.

As we move into the next phases of this project, we look forward to partnering with our community to share additional details and garner feedback, while continuing to build strong relationships that will benefit our youth.”

To read more, please visit: https://bit.ly/ NOCOYouthShelter

Colorful Minds Tutoring LLC. Amy Ferrara

Literacy and Math Tutor K–3rd grade

With over 12 years of experience, I continue to offer the best one on one instruction your child needs to feel confident and succeed.

“Amy is professional, flexible, fun and great to work with.” —K.A. “We are so grateful for Amy.” —S.H. “ Your child will benefit whether it is to get ahead or to help catch up.” —J.G.

First session free!

970-420-8635 villadeasj@comcast.net colorfulmindstutoring.com

Clean out your closet for cash We pay cash on-the-spot for women’s fashion

970-223-6636

4519 S. College | Fort Collins

Call or visit our website to learn more

ClothesMentor.com/fort-collins

RMPARENT

| 27

2 & 3-Day Morning Classes for 3-year-olds

PART OF THE UNIVERSAL PRESCHOOL PROGRAM FOR 2023

3-Day Pre-K Class 4-Day Pre-K Class Creative Movement & Music Program

Re g

is

t io tr a

n fo

ll r Fa

20 2 3

b

s Fe e g in

br u a

ry

www.preschoolfumc.org preschooldir@fcfumc.net

DO YOU HAVE A PROGRAM OR ACTIVITY YOU’D LIKE TO ADVERTISE? Program YOuth

y

& Activit

August

2018 •

.com

rmparent

Gu id e

-school

s update

Back-to

PAGE 10

gr a m

P ro Y DIRECTOR • PAGE 16

RY

BY CATEGO • PAGE 18 AL ALPHABETIC

OL

SCHO ars calend E 44 PAG

Reach Thousands of Parents with RMParent’s

Program & Activity

List of RS

ISE ADVERTE 46 PAG

Series

Distribute throughous t

Find out how we can help your business!

School

in northes r Colorado n !

FOR BUSINESSES IN FORT COLLINS, CONTACT:

Greg at 970-689-6832 • greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com FOR BUSINESSES IN GREELEY, LOVELAND, WINDSOR, ESTES PARK AND OTHERS, CONTACT:

Susan at 970-301-3320 • susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com

28 | RMPARENT

RMPARENT

| 29

Community News

THERESA BAER

Youth climate event, free job training, and more including a dog park, adventure playground, more picnic areas, arbor garden, additional restrooms and connecting trails.

YOUTH CLIMATE ACTION EVENT The second annual Youth Climate Action event will take place on National Public Lands Day, September 23 from 9am to 3pm in Fort Collins. Presented by the Sustainable Living Association and regional partners, this “nextgeneration climate awareness event” is an opportunity for 75 students ages 15–25 to connect with nature and learn the power of giving back to their community.

Participants will hear youth speakers’ experiences with environmental preservation, climate action, environmental justice, and outdoor equity; explore a career fair; and be guided to help create an Action Plan of servicelearning projects for school, home and in the

30 | RMPARENT

community. Sign up soon at sustainablelivingassociation. org/youth-climate-action to participate and receive a t-shirt, free lunch and be entered to win prizes.

FORT COLLINS COMMUNITY WALK TO PREVENT SUICIDE The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) holds community walks across the country providing journeys of remembrance and hope for those affected by suicide (and those who support them) while raising awareness and funds for programs to safeguard mental health and prevent suicide. Their Fort Collins Out of the Darkness Community Walk will take place at Spring Canyon Community Park on Sunday, September 10 at 10am.

Learn more and register to be part of the movement to walk #OutOftheDarkness at supporting.afsp.org.

TIMNATH COMMUNITY PARK UPDATES Phase 3 of Timnath Community Park, located near the entrance at 5500 Summerfield Parkway, is complete and features six pickleball courts, two tennis courts and a basketball court. A new splash pad and pavilion will open in the fall. Phase 3 completes the master plan for the 25-acre park adopted in 2015. Phase 1 brought amenities such as an amphitheater, multi-age play equipment, climbing boulder, swings, restrooms, picnic shelter, marketplace plaza and parking. Phase 2 doubled the park’s footprint

ZERO COST TRAINING FOR IN-DEMAND JOBS Last month, the Colorado Community College system launched the Career Advance Colorado program to cover tuition, fees, course materials and other costs for training programs in high priority areas including construction, education, early childhood education, firefighting, forestry, law enforcement, and nursing. House Bill 231246 funded the program with a dedicated $38.6 million. To enroll, you must apply for federal and/or state financial aid. Career Advance Colorado program offerings and financial aid processes varies at each community and technical college. Learn more at cccs.edu/career-advancecolorado and/or contact your college of choice to discuss available options.

A point of stability for children in an increasingly chaotic world.

Toddler (12m+) Preschool Elementary Middle School Planning for High School opening Fall 2024 COME VISIT US AT:

1540 Main St #242 Windsor, CO 80550 NEW WINDSOR MARKETPLACE

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES AT FLOYDSBARBERSHOP.COM H 970-509-4080

OPEN

ENROLLMENT SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY!

school.immanuelloveland.org 970-667-7606

4650 Sunview Drive, Loveland, CO 80538

RMPARENT

| 31

Community Calendar

THERESA BAER

September events FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS

FRIDAYS, SEPTEMBER 1, 8, 15 Greeley Friday Fest Free live music, fire spinners bubbles, balloons, more. 9th Street Plaza, downtown GR. www.DowntownGreeley.com SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Fiesta in the Plaza / Fiesta en la plaza Music/poets/dancers, piñatas and crafts, corn grinding for tortillas and blacksmith and printmaking demos. Centennial Village Museum, GR. www.greeleymuseums. com/events SEPTEMBER 2 THROUGH 4 Windsor Harvest Festival Parade, vendors, 2030 hot air balloons, pie eating contest, live music, fireworks. www.windsor harvestfest.com SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Rist Canyon Volunteer Fire Department Mountain Festival Annual fundraiser offers live music, silent auction, plant/bake/book sales, kids activities, demos, food

32 | RMPARENT

trucks, more. Across from Fire Station 1 at 11835 Rist Canyon Rd., www.Bellvue. festival.rcvfd.org Pastels on 5th Chalk art festival featuring live music, kids area and Marketplace. 5th Street between Lincoln and Cleveland Streets, LV. www.pastelson5th.org Potato Day Living history demos, entertainment, and reenactment performance

by Buffalo Soldiers.s.

Centennial Village Museum, GR. www.greeleymuseums. com/events SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Honey Festival Explore vendors, mead garden, observation beehive, Kid Zone and live music. Fairgrounds Park, LV. lovgov.org/PRevents SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Latine Heritage Month Live music, dancing, food trucks and vendor/ community resource booths. Foote Lagoon, LV. www.heartandsolco.org/ lhm-2023-events

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Kidchella Music & Art Festival Circus, magic and music performances, carnival games, dancing, more.

North Lake Amphitheater, LV. lovgov.org/Prevents Youth Climate Action Event Next-generation climate awareness event is youthdeveloped, youth-driven, and youth-led. Old Town Square, FC www.sustainableliving association.org/youthclimate-action Timnath Fall Festival Live music, artisans, local beer, food trucks, activities/ crafts. Timnath Community Park , Timnath. timnath.org/ fall-festival SEPTEMBER 29 & 30 Greeley OktoBrewfest Pretzels, brats, beer plus inflatables, pumpkin decorating, WOW bubbles, more. Lincoln Park, Downtown GR. www.downtowngreeley. com/special-events/ greeley-oktobrewfest

ENTERTAINMENT

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 African Drum and Dance Performance Falé, African Drum & Dance Collective of Fort Collins will perform live. Free museum admission. Global Village Museum, FC. globalvillagemuseum.org SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Windsor Movies in the Park Last screening of season: Sky High (PG). Eastman Park, WS. www.recreationlives here.com/217/Movies-inthe-Park THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Martina McBride Union Colony Civic Center, Monfort Concert Hall, GR. ucstars.showare.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Astronomy & Skygazing: Mythology Brief, family-friendly astronomy activity followed by skygazing. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Campfire at Nix—Beavers: Pest or Keystone Species?

Learn why these engineers are necessary for nature.

Coyote Ridge Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events The Robert Cray Band Union Colony Civic Center, Monfort Concert Hall, GR. ucstars.showare.com SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 The Australian Didgeridoo: One Awesome Instrument Learn the history and hear it performed. Global Village Museum, FC. globalvillagemuseum.org 3 Redneck Tenors Described as “Blue Collar Comedy Tour goes to Carnegie Hall.”

Rialto Theater, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org

SATURDAYS, SEPTEMBER 16 AND 23 Live at The Gardens Summer Concert Series Experience Blood, Sweat & Tears and/or WAR. The Gardens on Spring Creek, FC. www.fcgov.com/ gardens/concerts TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 International Trivia Night Features 50 questions.

Registration close 5pm, September 22. Global Village Museum, FC. globalvillagemuseum.org WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Tony Furtado w/ Liz Barnez Concert Outdoor music, food and fun benefitting The Matthews House. Fort Collins Nursery, FC. www.

FortCollinsNursery.com WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Bella Gaia High-fidelity orbital views of Earth and cultural photography accompanied by live performances of music and dance.

Rialto Theater, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Josh Turner Union Colony Civic Center, Monfort Concert Hall, GR. ucstars.showare.com

Skygazing Volunteers share knowledge of stars, planets, galaxies, etc. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, FC. www.fcgov.com/events SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Campfire at Nix—Hispanic Heritage Month Participe en una noche de historias sobre el Día de los Muertos con un naturalista.

Nix Farm (Natural Areas Office), FC. www.fcgov. com/events

ACTIVE-ITIES

SEPTEMBER 1 Family Art Challenge: Monster Bash Families work together to create a piece of art for library display. Clearview Library, WS. clearview. libnet.info/event/8865477 SEPTEMBER 1 Youth Cooking Workshop: Molcajete Prep & Seasoning Ages 5–10 will work with professional chef Andrea Murdoch. Loveland Library, LV. lovlib.org/events SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Black Squirrel Half Challenging yet accessible trail run plus a kids 1-mile race. Lory State Park, Bellvue. gnarrunners.com/ black-squirrel-half

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Honeybee Hustle One-mile loop open for 1.5 hours with awards for various categories.

Fairgrounds Park, LV. www. sweetheartcityracing.com/ events/honey-bee-hustle SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Fall Equinox Marathon, half marathon, 5-mile run. Poudre Canyon. greeneventscolorado.com SEPTEMBER 22 THROUGH 24 Red Feather Trail Jamboree Half-marathon, 50K, 50-mile, and kids 1-mile (Sunday). Red Feather Lakes. gnarrunners.com/ red-feather Additional programs available through local recreation departments: Estes Park: https://evrpd. colorado.gov/recreation Fort Collins: www.fcgov. com/recreation Greeley: https://greeleyrec. com Loveland: www.LovGov. org/ActivityGuide Windsor: www. recreationliveshere. com/160/Activity-Guide

RMPARENT

| 33

Time out

LEA HANSON

The Mama Bear I VERY CLEARLY REMEMBER middle school and the heartache that went along with it. It is a tough time of year for all kids; for me, the friendship drama was almost unbearable. I turned out fine (allegedly), but not everyone did. For some, the “small t traumas” of this time stay just that way… difficult times that feel horrendous at the time, but end up being mostly opportunities to grow, learn, and develop relationship, communication, and conflict resolution skills.

Some, however, end up experiencing “big T trauma” and being bullied and excluded leaving lasting effects they find themselves recovering from and discussing with therapists in middle life.

My daughter started seventh grade. She’s so far experienced the run-ofthe-mill friendship dramas and is not a bully nor is she being bullied based on what I know. Yet, even when she tells me about the most “routine” tricky situations with friends, I am surprised at my reaction.

The Mama Bear comes out.

I am mostly a calm person, and I think I am an open and honest communicator with my friends. And, I most NEVER hold a grudge or feel the need to lash out toward or “get back” at someone. Yet, when I hear stories of my kid’s friends

34 | RMPARENT

being mean, saying mean things, or doing mean things to my kid, I get very defensive, protective, and sometimes very angry. Sure, I keep those feelings in my head and with my words, I discuss the pain, hurt, and importance of self-esteem and confidence. But inside I’m plotting. And I have a hard time liking the person after they and my kid make amends.

Where does this Mama Bear come from? I mean, clearly, we parents have an innate response to protect our children. And, anyone who has done any type of self-work, self-reflection, and/or therapy knows we too often and too quickly project our own experiences

onto our kids’…. And need to try not to. For me, this shows up in (overly dramatically) assuming any decline for a hang out equals dislike or exclusion and being alone means feeling lonely. However, that’s the case for my daughter; she has her own worries that impact the way she interprets her life. We might be similar in lots of ways, but my experiences shaped my unreasonable worries and fears and her experiences shaped hers.

While I’d like to think of myself as a very empathetic person (who wouldn’t?), I can’t help but wonder if the deeps feelings I am feeling when she is emotionally hurt or sad are my own triggers

and feelings coming up or I’m actually experiencing empathy and feeling some of her feelings. It’s very likely the former. At least I know that logically.

Nonetheless, I am so surprised with how often I need to remind myself of that and set aside my carnal Mama Bear reactions. Grrr.

RMPARENT

| 35

36 | RMPARENT