November RMParent 2013

NOVEMBER 2013 • RMPARENT.COM

Family-friendly ski areas Cut your own

Christmas tree

Delivering baby

Adult acne

treatments

Organic vs.

local foods

Seasonal squash

Special Section:

Winter WARM-UPS Advertising SUPPLEMENT

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NOVEMBER 2013

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

Changing colors—Fall makes me appreciate every day

WOMEN’S HEALTH . . . . . . . . . 8 Adults have blemishes too—treat acne naturally for healthy results

Family activities . . . . . . . 10

Special Sections WINTER WARM-UPS

WINTER WARM-UP

S

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

Cut your own Christmas tree—make decorating an adventure

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

ADVERTISIN

G SUPPLE MENT

Organic vs. local—comparing these “green” foodsourcing choices

Community news . . . . . . 14 Holiday celebrations in Estes Park, Loveland’s North Madison sidewalk connection, Weld county offers post-flood well-water testing kits, Youth Clinic’s new Milk Depot supports moms and saves babies

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

Squash it—sorting out these fruits of the fall season

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 6 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

Time out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 8

Thanksgiving with Miss Piggy—how a holiday dinner out changed the way I think about family

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Happy 40th Birthday, Namaqua, food drive held for flood victims, Little free library helps promote literacy, recorders purchased for third-grade students in TSD

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Features 18

S nowriders delight

20

Ready! Set! Deliver!

Carve a turn at a family-friendly ski area. Find a wealth of ski areas in our own backyard. They offer more than just skiing. Learn about the Passport program for your 5th- or 6thgrader. Shop early for deals on passes.

Tips on preparing for the big day. Find out what you need to pack for the hospital, what to expect during labor, how to ease labor pains and ways your partner can help.

Webber volunteer gives back to community, calendar of events, PSD Heat Committee to recommend options to Superintendent, Food Advisory Panel makes recommendations, PSD students report remarkable rainfall to precipitation monitoring network, Tavelli students take on the cardboard challenge

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Seventy-three students earn ‘AP Scholar’ status, District 6 continues to assist students displaced by flooding, Engage Online Academy opens new Learning Center

Lunchbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

ABOUT THE COVER: Artemis, 3, loves animals, bananas and the color purple. She would like to be a vetrenarian when she grows up. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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perspective Changing colors

Fall makes me appreciate every day

F

all makes me think of change. It is the season of transition from the long, busy days of summer to quiet, early evenings of winter. Fall is my favorite season and I know I’m not alone. It is the season when we harvest the fruits of our summer labor and put them away for the winter. (See Richard Keller’s story about seasonal squash, by the way.)

I know I’m playing with a well-worn metaphor here about the seasons of life...that spring is the exuberant time of rain and fertility when we prepare the soil for future planting and that summer is when we sow our seeds and tend our garden. And when fall arrives we work hard to bring in the harvest. And we should celebrate that bounty. Of course, winter is a reflective time, a time to share stories around the fire and catch up on some good books...and the then the cycle revs back up again...

I guess that I feel myself passing out of the summer and into the fall of my life...and I’m thinking that fall may, in fact, still be my favorite season. I’m ready to let the busyness go a bit and settle down to enjoying some of the fruits I have to harvest—activities with family, a little travel, puttering around the house. It’s not that I’m free from work...remember harvest time is a busy time, but it’s a different busy than that summer craziness.

So back to the idea that fall makes me think of change...I’m not sure why. Maybe it’s that new cool crispness of the season or the dramatic color changes and the dustings of snow that get my attention. It seems that in the fall I take a little more time to pause, to reflect, to appreciate.

While I love fall, I’m also well aware that winter is lurking. And while I look forward to the cozy nights of winter, it seems more urgent to soak up every beautiful day of fall and make the most of it. Fall would not be the same without winter. I’m looking forward to a nice, long Front Range fall, and then let winter bring on what it will....

I would be remiss if I didn’t quickly highlight the stories in this issue.

First, the food stories—Lea Hanson fills us in on local and organic foods and Richard, as I mentioned, talks about seasonal squash. He also shares some ideas on what makes a good holiday meal in Time Out at the end of the magazine. On the health front, don’t miss Lynn Utzman-Nichols stories: in Women’s Health Department she looks at adult acne and in a feature she helps you prepare for delivery. For activities, we have Kim Lipker’s guidance on where to ski in Colorado and Katie Harris’ suggestions about where to cut a Christmas tree this year. And don’t miss school news from your local district and Kim Sharpe’s run down of community news.

Finally check out the extensive calendar for some pretty exciting stuff.

Have a great fall, Scott Titterington, Publisher

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NOVEMBER 2013 • Volume 18, Issue 6 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com Calendar editor Aly Titterington calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt, Sharon Klahn, Cherese Macy, Rob’s Bike Courier Service COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Katies Harris, Richard Keller, Kim Lipker, Kim Sharpe, Lynn Utzman-Nichols

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Ave., 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. ©2013 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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women’s health

Adults have blemishes too Treat acne naturally for healthy results

L y nn U t z m a n N i c h ols

I

t seems unfair to be middle-aged and still get acne. For me, it’s almost like clockwork once a month—a sign that my period is just around the corner. Luckily it is just one or two pimples, and probably not noticed by anyone but me. But I do know some women who have more severe acne—as do their teens.

If you’ve got acne, it might be time to put away all your special lotions, creams, cleansers and prescription drugs and consider getting a series of exfoliation treatments instead. If you are prone to acne, there’s a good chance your face is not naturally shedding dead skin cells as it should. Because of this, dead cells remain on the surface of your face, settling into follicles where they create a literal plug in the pore. This plug of skin cells and oil are a fine nest for bacteria, and hence, acne. With regular exfoliation treatments, your acne will improve.

If you like the idea of natural products to treat acne rather than the more severe prescription medications, consider seeing a holistic esthetician, such as Jessica Trumble with Healing Gardens Esthetics (thehealinggardens. org/services) a part of the Healing Gardens Health Center in Old Town, Fort Collins. Jessica’s approach to exfoliation is both chemical and mechanical. With microdermabrasion, she seemingly runs a mini vacuum over your face. The sucking and mild scraping helps remove the top layer of dead skin—getting rid of one of the main ingredients needed to grow acne.

She uses natural acids, such as lactic acid, salicylic acid and fruit enzymes in her chemical peels to naturally remove the top layer of skin. These acids work by breaking up the intercellular cement that prevents the natural shedding of dead cells. Jessica says that the acids help accelerate the skins natural shed8

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ding process and call forth a new layer of cells. It also helps break down oil and prevent blackheads.

According to the Mayo Clinic, three elements create acne: overproduction of oil, irregular and insufficient shedding of dead skin cells and the presence of bacteria. Stress is

says that teen acne can start as early as age 10 and last from 5 to 10 years, often clearing up by the early 20s.

Some traditional acne treatments are fairly harmless—such as retinols, a type of vitamin A. Others can have side effects such as taking oral antibiotics that wipe out healthy gut bacteria and weaken

thought to also play a role.

We all know that when it comes to acne, teens get it worse. That’s because hormones start pumping through their bodies, including testosterone in both boys and girls. Testosterone triggers the body to make oil, called sebum. While acne is common in teens, nearly 20 percent of adults have regular bouts of acne with many cases in women well into their 30s and beyond.

Jessica Trumble says that, “Teen acne and adult acne are completely different, in many ways. With adults, we see a lot of hormonal acne mostly around the chin and jaw line, whereas teens usually get acne in the T-zone consisting of black heads and white heads.” WebMD

immunity over time. I like the idea of natural skin care—using ingredients that came from the earth—to help naturally wash away oils and dead skin cells.

Jessica likes to take a progressive approach to acne treatments—starting slowly and building up to stronger treatments. That way, she helps the skin maintain its natural barrier and avoids sensitivity issues that can come with acne. She often sees significant results after a series of treatments. A visit to Jessica’s spa-like office is vastly different than going to the doctor. You, or your teen, might just melt away while Jessica gently coaxes your face to heal, via microdermabrasion and peels, its rogue acne ways.

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family activities

Cut your own Christmas tree Make decorating an adventure

K ATI E HA R R I S

F

ew traditions are as memorable as cutting down the family Christmas tree each year. Peggy Windsor, owner of Windsors’ Christmas Trees in Windsor, CO, says she remembers the first time she brought her children to the business she now owns to pick out a tree. At the time, her soon-to-be husband and co-owner was running the farm with his family. “I had no idea he was going to make me cut down my own tree!” she says. Now, years later, Peggy and her husband work together to inspire memories for families visiting the farm every Christmas season.

Choosing and chopping your own tree guarantees a fresh and fragrant tree that will outlast any on the lots, and the experience, whether it be a drive to the national forest singing carols all the way, or a hayride followed by a warm-up around the campfire, will be one your family won’t soon forget.

Beaver Meadows Resort Ranch

100 Marmot Drive #1, Red Feather Lakes 970-881-2450 www.beavermeadows.com

Make it a full day for the family. Head up to harvest your tree, starting at $25, between November 19 and December 24 and then relax and have some fun.

The snow-tubing lift is open weekends and holidays starting November 16.

Sleigh rides, horseback rides, ice skating, ice fishing, snow shoeing and more are available every day. Warm up with some hot chocolate at the restaurant.

Fern Hill Christmas Tree Farm 2001 Fern Ave, Greeley 970-352-4478

Take a hay wagon ride out to the field to choose the perfect tree, whether it is a Scots Pine, Blue Spruce, a Douglas Fur or a Balsam Fur. On your return you’ll have the opportunity to warm up by the 10

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fire pit or visit the gift shop. Saws will be provided. Open the Friday after Thanksgiving, then Friday-Sunday until Christmas, 11am until dark. $20-$100 per tree.

Windsors’ Christmas Trees 33741 Hwy 257, Windsor 970-686-5253 www.windsorstrees.com

Early birds can visit the farm on November 16 from 9am-4pm to choose their tree and have it tagged for pick-up during regular season. Or, wait until the season starts on December 7 and choose your tree then.

The farm will be open Sunday-Friday, noon-4pm and Saturdays, 9am-4pm until trees run out. On weekends guests can enjoy a hayride out to the field. Axes will be provided for tree cutting. Wreaths and centerpieces will also be available for purchase and can be pre-ordered to customer specifications if desired. All trees are prepriced with Scots Pines running between $10-55, Blue Spruces from $50-90, Myers Spruce from $40-60 and Douglas Firs from $40-60.

USDA Forest Service, Red Feather Lakes The Red Feather Lakes tree cutting area will open December 1 and remain open through early December. Tree cutting hours are 8:30am to 2:30pm. Chains or 4-wheel drive vehicles are required in the

forest (No ATVs, snowmobiles or motorcycles allowed). Permits are required to cut down trees, and can be obtained at the Fort Collins Forest Service office at 2150 Centre Avenue or the Greeley office at 660 “O” Street. Permits will be on sale beginning late November for $10 per tree, cash only (limit five trees per person). To access the national forest at Red Feather Lakes from Fort Collins, travel north 21 miles on Hwy 287 to Livermore. Turn left on CR74E. Proceed 16 miles and turn left on CR68C. Drive 7 miles and follow signs to the cutting area.

Please note cutting instructions from the USDA Forest Service website, www. fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/passes-permits.

There are several miles of roads within the cutting area, so remember to spread out when searching for your tree.

And follow these tree-cutting rules.

• Use a handsaw or axe to cut your tree.

Chainsaws are prohibited.

• Cut trees only within National Forest boundary and respect private property.

• Cut trees with a stump diameter of six inches or less and within six inches of the ground, below any live branches.

• Take any unused portion of your tree.

• Attach permit to tree in a visible location.

• Do not cut any tree marked with blue paint or designated as a wildlife tree.

• Bring something to tie down your tree.

• Pack out all trash.

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healthy living

Organic vs. local

Comparing these “green” food-sourcing choices L e a H a nson

I

n an effort to become more locally based and self-reliant food consumers, more and more people seek organic food and many families are turning to local farm shares and farmers’ markets for as much food as they can.

As a response to the growing demand for healthier and more responsibly produced food, two significant trends have emerged: the use of local ingredients and the use of organic ingredients.

Families and restaurants alike are exploring both local and organic food options and questions remain over which is more cost-effective, healthy, sustainable, and more sensible. The term “organic” has fast become a buzzword in today’s American society and is often misunderstood and incorrectly used.

Although both local and organic fall under the now-umbrella term “green,” the two food-sourcing strategies are actually quite different. Organic food is regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and is heavily regulated regarding how the food is grown and processed. The definition of local food, on the other hand, is a little stickier and is not something that is regulated by the government. Local can mean anything from around the corner to across the state. Although there is much debate, most agree the rule of thumb adopted for local ingredients is that they come from within a 150-mile radius.

One of the biggest problems for those who swear by locally grown/ raised food is supply. It is especially a problem for local ingredients, considering how difficult it can be to find specific ingredients in some regions and the volume of ingredients that are needed to supply several units. One of the biggest problems for those who swear buy organic food is environmental impact.

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While the (properly used) term organic can guarantee the consumer a certain level of health and safety, it cannot guarantee the process in which the food arrives at the dinner table is healthy or safe for the environment.

Values of local food vs. values of organic food At the end of the day, most families simply want to choose the right product.

Deciding whether to buy organic or locally grown food is a personal choice based on health concerns as well as environmental and social responsibility.

Organic is probably healthier In order to label produce as organic, these farms must meet government standards. Although the USDA makes no claim that organic food is more nutritious than conventional produce, the absence of synthetic, artificial, or genetically modified ingredients in organic food means it’s probably healthier because of what it lacks. However, when organic food travels long distances to market—travel known as food miles — it creates pollution that for some outweighs the positive environmental effects of organic farming in the first place.

Local is probably more environmentally friendly On average, produce in the United States travels anywhere from 1,300 to 2,000 miles from the farmer to the consumer — a process that creates enormous amounts of greenhouse gasses and other pollution. Additionally, locally grown food is fresher. It’s simple: Food that arrives at your table in less time has

been picked or harvested more recently.

Local food is not necessarily organic, nor is it required to meet federal organic standards. However, many local farmers have environmental goals similar to those of organic farmers. And because local farming is just that — local — consumers also have the opportunity to ask farmers about agricultural practices.

Try for both If you’re buying food from local farmers’ markets or food co-ops, take the opportunity to ask growers and grocers about their operations and find out if they are growing or selling organically. At your grocery store, let the produce manager know if you’re interested in buying local organic vegetables. In northern Colorado, there are numerous options for community sustainable agriculture (CSA), farm shares, or joining a community garden. Don’t forget, planting your own garden and growing and preserving your crop is the most organic – and most local – option available to most.

DR. DANIEL J. LASZLO 1136 E. Stuart St. Bld. 3, Suite 3200 • Fort Collins, CO 80525 • (970)221-1681 7251 W. 20th St.. Building N Suite1 • Greeley, CO 80634 • (970)356-3907

www.coloradoallergy.com

Father-Daughter Formal

Winter Wonderland

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ATHSM A ALLERG IES ECZEM A

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Couples, $15

Additional daughters, $5 each

Sister Carolyn Hoying Gymnasium at Saint John The Evangelist Catholic School 1730 W. 12th St., Loveland

Tickets available at the door and at Loveland Dance Academy, 440 N. Lincoln. Ave., Loveland and The Greeley Conservatory, 813 8th St., Greeley. Cash only.

Photographs available on site • Contact Joy Hoyt, 970-481-7812 Presented by the Loveland Dance Academy and The Greeley Conservatory Performance Dance Team Booster Club, a nonprofit organization.

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JOHN M. JAMES, M.D.

Certified by the American Board of Allergy & Immunology and the Ameican Board of Pediatrics

Fun s ’ t I y ash al r T It’s cation du E s ’ It It’s the

Garbage Garage Larimer County’s waste & recycling education center at the Larimer County Landfill in Fort Collins

(970) 498-5772 larimer.org/solidwaste

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community news

Communities got resilience, milk

Estes Park Holidays, well-water testing, new sidewalk and donated milk B y K I M S HA R P E

R

esilience. That’s the word that describes the northern Colorado communities that suffered so much damage from the flood that swept through the area in September. Not only are individuals putting their lives back together, but they are also moving beyond the debris to celebrate accomplishments and holidays. Of course, assistance in a variety of forms is in place and will be for some time to come.

A state-run website, Colorado United.com, offers news pertaining to impacted areas, recovery and ways to get help, including links to information about financial assistance, temporary housing, legal assistance and more.

“This website puts important information all in one place and will serve as a resource for people and businesses that are rebuilding,” Gov. John Hickenlooper says during a news conference held at the Loveland Chamber of Commerce where the Governor unveiled the site.

Catch the Glow weekend begins the holidays in Estes Park Family traditions abound in Estes Park, especially at holidays, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Area restaurants host Thanksgiving dinners and buffets that allow families an easy and delicious option for starting this weekend with togetherness and gratitude, despite recent devastation.

Beginning at 12pm on Friday, November 29, people can venture into the downtown Estes village to “Come Catch the Glow” of the season with holiday music broadcast outdoors throughout the town, carolers, holiday characters greeting guests on the sidewalks and visits with Santa. New this year, couples and families will enjoy ice-skating in the heart of downtown along the river walk.

The unique variety of stores and boutiques throughout town will be open so 14

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people can enjoy holiday shopping.

The day’s big event, the annual “Catch the Glow Parade,” begins at 5:30pm. By that time, Elkhorn Avenue, the main street through downtown Estes Park, is lined with people waiting for the parade of over 40 lighted floats to pass. Estes Park has been home to a holiday parade for 25 years.

for a $1 donation at the door.

Then, Saturday, December 7, the annual Quota Club Holiday Home Tour takes place. The event features five of Estes Park’s most unique homes decked out in holiday finery. Tickets and tour maps are available at the Estes Park Visitors Center, 500 Big Thompson Ave. Other holiday activities scheduled

The parade is a moving extension of the holiday décor for which Estes Park is known: 135 streetlights are dressed with lighted multi-colored LED Christmas tree shapes and 190 live trees throughout town sparkle with tiny white lights. In addition, the town displays seven larger-than-life murals depicting everything from old-time nursery rhymes such as “The Old Woman in the Shoe” to spiritually-based parables.

Saturday, November 30, at 9am, ushers in the annual Holiday House Christmas Bazaar at the Estes Park Conference Center, 101 S. St. Vrain Ave. Hundreds of hand-crafted holiday items, a raffle, recycled treasures, holiday treats, music and more, are all available

in Estes Park include concerts, special art and gallery shows. There are holiday concerts and events each weekend from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Holiday lights begin shining downtown Estes Park on Saturday, November 23, as the Tree Lighting Ceremony infuses the town with twinkle and cheer. Activities for all ages include s’mores baking, carolers, children’s games and a visit from Santa himself.

For complete information about activities and events in Estes Park during the holiday season, contact the Estes Park Visitor Center at 800-44-ESTES (800443-7837) or 970-577-9900, or check out the official Estes Park visitor information website at www.VisitEstesPark.com.

Celebrate North Madison sidewalk connection On October 22, students, parents, Loveland Mayor Cecil Gutierrez and Smart T. Fox traveled to Mary Blair Elementary School along the newly constructed sidewalk connecting Seven Lakes Neighborhoods at Seven Lakes Drive to East 29th Street. This half-mile sidewalk gap was completed with Safe Routes to School grant funding.

The route was closed to all pedestrian and bicycle travel during construction, which began in early September.

But now that the new, paved bike and walking pathway is open, it offers the safest route yet connecting west Loveland neighborhoods to Conrad Ball Middle School and Mary Blair Elementary School less than a mile southwest.

A decade ago, when Thompson School District suspended bus service in the area, parents and children made their way along the former rough asphalt path that ran too close to Madison Avenue traffic lanes to be safe.

The City, Thompson School District and Larimer County collaborated to land a $90,000 federal Safe Routes to School grant to help replace the crumbling asphalt with a new concrete sidewalk.

The design added four feet of buffer space separating the sidewalk from street traffic at the south section and thirty feet of buffer on the north section.

Now that the project is finished, a district-appointed crossing guard assists students across N. Madison Avenue at the intersection of E. 29th Street.

Comments or questions are welcome. Call Shelley Aschenbrenner at 970-962-2558 or email her at michelle. aschenbrenner@cityofloveland.org.

Weld County offers free postflood well water testing kits The Weld County health department continues to offer free bacterial well water test kits to residents concerned about possible groundwater contamination due to the September flood.

“While it’s possible that groundwater can be affected by flooded surface water contaminated by sewage and other microorganisms due to the flood, the only way to determine contamination

is to test the well water,” says Trevor Jiricek, Environmental Health Division Director at the health department.

In general, wells greater than 100 feet in depth, where the wellhead was not submerged by floodwaters, should not be impacted. It is recommended that groundwater wells under 100 feet in depth and in close proximity to the flood plain be tested to ensure they contain safe drinking water.

Because infiltration of water through various subsurface geological zones is complex and depends on many factors, a single sample analysis may not be adequate to ensure the sustained safety of drinking water. “Testing is also important because groundwater may be impacted long after the flood waters have receded,” Jiricek says.

In an effort to protect public health, the Weld County Commissioners will continue to offer free bacterial water tests for those residents impacted by flood waters until further notice. To request a free bacterial water test kit, please contact the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment, Environmental Health Division at 970-304-6415.

The Youth Clinic’s new milk depot supports moms, saves babies The Youth Clinic is partnering with the Mothers’ Milk Bank Colorado by becoming a milk depot at their 1214 Oak Park Drive office in Fort Collins.

Women who would like to donate extra

breast milk can drop off their milk to be transported to the Milk Bank in Denver.

The milk is sent to multiple hospitals in 24 states across the country. The Mothers’ Milk Bank Colorado is a member of HMBANA (Human Milk Banking Association of North America) and every drop of milk that is donated is directly for nonprofit, charitable use only.

In situations where a mother’s own milk is not available, provision of pasteurized, screened donor milk is the next best option, particularly for ill or highrisk infants. Martha Gooldy Garcia, an internationally board certified lactation consultant and registered dietitian at The Youth Clinic, elaborates on the importance of the program. “Breast milk is the ideal food for babies. It is an amazing substance, with hundreds of different components that protect against infectious disease, support the immune system, and support the long-term development of a baby.”

The Youth Clinic supports breastfeeding on other levels as well with an additional staff of three certified lactation counselors who assist families in meeting their breastfeeding goals. Questions regarding The Youth Clinic milk depot or the lactation programs available at The Youth Clinic should call the clinic’s main line at 970-267-9510 or its Lactation Nurse Line at 970-416-6290.

Women who are interested in donating should contact the Mothers’ Milk Bank Colorado at 877-458-5503 for prescreening.

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nutrition biggest claim to fame is its amount of vitamin A, which is almost 300 percent of the daily value recommended.

Butternut squash is a versatile member of the produce family, and it can be used in a number of recipes.

For instance, it can be roasted and pureed to form a base for a ginger and garlic soup. A mix of pureed butternut and ricotta cheese can add sweetness to a side of macaroni and cheese. Other recipes involve cubing the squash and roasting it with butter and sage, adding it in as an ingredient to vegetarian lasagna, and mashing it with potatoes to provide a unique flavor.

Squash it

Sorting out these fruits of the fall season R i c h a rd K eller

I

’ve noticed some changes to the produce stands at my local farmer’s market over the last few weeks.

Gone are the light and colorful vegetables and melons of the summer. In their place is produce that matches the colors of the leaves falling from the trees. And what’s most prominently displayed from our local farmers is a variety of squash.

Ranging from pumpkins and zucchini to spaghetti squash, each variety of this fruit offers a different texture and taste and can be used in a variety of recipes for every meal of the day. Below is a breakdown of some of the more common squash you’ll find this fall.

Acorn squash Named due to its resemblance to an acorn, this type of squash is recognizable by deep lines in its dark green skin. The inside of this squash offers the diner a sweet yellow-orange flesh. Acorn squash is very low in calories, fat, and cholesterol

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and contains large doses of potassium, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and magnesium.

The easiest way to prepare an acorn squash is to cut it in half, add brown sugar and butter, and bake in a 350degree oven for about one hour. Another recipe involves cutting the squash in wedges, adding butter, brown sugar, and rosemary, and baking in a 350-degree oven for approximately 50 minutes.

Other recipes for acorn squash abound across the Internet.

Butternut squash Butternut squash has a pale yellow skin and a fleshy, orange pulp that is similar in its sweet and nutty taste to a pumpkin when ripe. Unlike its cousin, the pulp gets sweeter as its orange hue gets darker. With slightly more calories than a cup of acorn squash, the butternut variety is low in cholesterol, fat, and sodium and heavy in potassium, protein, vitamin C, and vitamin B-6. Butternut squash’s

Spaghetti squash It’s not hard to recognize this type of squash thanks to its large, oblong shape and bright yellow or orange skin. Unlike the other varieties mentioned, the yellow pulp of this squash isn’t as sweet, and its texture when cooked resembles long strings of spaghetti. The lowest in calories, spaghetti squash is high in dietary fiber, folic acid, potassium, and vitamin A. The orange variety of this fruit also contains large doses of beta-carotene.

The easiest way to prepare spaghetti squash is to cook it so the pulp comes off in strings. From there you can substitute the end result in many pasta dishes.

One of the more common recipes is spaghetti squash carbonara, which contains black pepper, bacon or pancetta, and eggs. You can also roast the spaghetti squash by slicing it in half and adding butter, brown sugar, or other sweet and savory ingredients. In addition to utilizing the pulp of a spaghetti squash you can also eat the seeds in a similar way you would with those from a pumpkin.

In general, these varieties of squash should be a sweet and nutritional part of your family’s diet. Check the bookstore and the Internet for the numerous dishes that can be prepared with these fruits. And don’t be afraid to try some new recipes out on your family. You’ll be surprised at the smiles you receive after the first bite.

Get your FREE issue today!

Northern Colorado’s

Favorite Senior Magazine.

visit us online: rmsenior.com Like us on facebook: facebook.com/RMSeniorMagazine

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Snowriders

delight Carve a turn at a family-friendly ski area Kim Lipker

S

kiing and snowboarding reign as a top family-friendly winter activity and this is for good reason. Snowriding is a tidy package of fun wrapped up for families of all sorts—it’s outdoors, it’s exercise, it’s something you can do all day and it’s a great place to get to know your kids without the noise of day-today stress. As you prepare for the upcoming season, pulling coats and gloves and helmets out of storage, the mountains too begin to primp themselves. A glance to the west and you can see the blankets of snow start to cover the hills with the blaze of sunshine and twinkle of blue sky to add to the enticement.

Some of the best skiing is within a few hours of northern Colorado. These ski areas cater to all ages. Colorado ski areas recognize that kids are their future skiers and snowboarders, which is why so many of them have wonderful family -friendly ski programs.

Learning to ski has never been eas-

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ier or more fun. The choices the young set has for ski or snowboard gear and lessons has never been better. Now, ski resorts have terrain parks, recreation centers, arcades, kids’ night out, kids’ day off, museum exhibits, tubing hills, torchlight parades, snowshoe tours, hockey classes and cool ski school. Ski school is so varied in this day-and-age that you will see class titles like these: Park & Pipe Session, Rip Session, Beginner Shortcut, Direct to Parallel, Guest Centered Teaching and Extreme Camps.

Snow-loving families learn early that skiing doesn’t have to be expensive.

Yes, list price for lift tickets is pricey, but if you find the deals early you will never have to pay full price. Early season deals are consistently a good trend, as are coupons, and the 5th and 6th grade Passport program offered by Colorado Ski Country USA. Many local stores have wonderful winter-activity clothes.

Second-hand stores have a good selec-

tion of barely-worn winter clothes from last season. Equipment rental programs are varied and you can rent for one day or the entire season.

For the past 17 years, more than 200,000 families have participated in

Log on to more fun For more information go to www.colorado ski.com—Colorado Ski Country USA’s comprehensive website. Here you can access all individual ski resort websites, a current snow report, find special events and learn more about discounts.

For more information and to purchase the 2013-14 Gems Card go to www.colorado ski.com/gems.

For more information and to sign up for the 5th and 6th grade Passport program go to www.coloradoski.com/passport.

For more information on Snowy Range in Wyoming, go to www.snowyrangeski.com.

the Passport program. This year, 5thgrade participants get three free days of skiing or snowboarding at each of their 20-member resorts. You can ski all 60 days or just a few. Kids in 6th grade get four days of skiing or snowboarding at each of their 20-member resorts for $99. The First Class program offers 5thgrade passporters one free beginner lesson and rental package throughout the month of January.

The eight Gems of Colorado have been longtime local favorites and have original and new members. The Gems are self-described as “skiing and snowboarding’s best hidden treasures, but sometime to discover them you have to get off the beaten path.” The slopes are less crowded with the same, yet smaller, varied terrain. They are also affordable.

You’ll find that they have attractive lift-ticket prices, rental prices, lesson prices and on-mountain food prices. A 2013-14 Gems Card is the best way to access all that the Gems have to offer.

The Gems

• Loveland – About 50 miles from Den-

ver and free close-in parking.

• Arapahoe Basin – Known as A-Basin is

legendary for it’s more difficult terrain and long season, opening in October and closing in June.

• Monarch Mountain – Located in south central Colorado, claims they are home to the “highest Starbuck’s in the free world.”

• Powderhorn – Only 35 miles away from Grand Junction, but a whole 4,000 feet higher.

• Ski Cooper – In Leadville, this ski area is skiing the way it used to be: affordable and family-friendly.

• Sunlight – Nestled right outside of Glenwood Springs and halfway between Aspen and Vail.

• Ski Granby Ranch (formerly Sol Vista) –

Past Winter Park, this ski area has a great lesson program and affordable pricing.

• Eldora – About 20 miles from Boulder.

Many locals venture out-of-state for day trips to Snowy Range in Wyoming.

The mountain caters to families who are tired of “fighting traffic on I-70.” Located near Laramie, Snowy Range is a 1 ½hour drive from Fort Collins and has all

the terrain, services and staff you would find at a Colorado Gem resort.

Resorts that are great for an overnight visit have world-class ski and snowboarding schools. They also have wonderful mountains. In addition, many of these ski mountains have sister towns full of original shops, good restaurants and friendly locals. If you don’t mind a long day in the car, some are perfect for a one-day trip and all have some sort of close, overnight lodging available for one-night or longer vacations.

Activities outside of snowriding, such as restaurants and ice-skating rinks, are inside the resort villages of Keystone, Copper Mountain, Breckenridge and Beaver Creek. You can let older children roam about these villages and feel good that they are safe and that you will find each other. Although Winter Park doesn’t have a remarkable village area, they make up for it in their Groswold’s Discovery Park. This is the resort’s 25acre beginning area that has twisting trails and a hidden cabin.

Destination resorts are the ski areas that your family really should consider for longer vacations. They are wonderful ski

resorts with towns full of character. They are a little more out-of-the-way and are worth the drive. All destination resorts listed here have family-friendly blue boulevards and big bunny hills. Telluride even has friendly mascots – Olivia the Otter, Eddie the Eagle and Morris the Bear.

The ski resorts Ajax, also known as Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, Snowmass, and Sunlight are all very close together and sit between Glenwood Springs and Aspen. Crested Butte sits alone and is accessed through Gunnison. Telluride, Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort, Powderhorn, Wolf Creek, Monarch and Silverton Mountain are in the south and southwest corner of the state.

Steamboat Springs is a perennial favorite for northern Colorado and many here are a little biased toward their two ski hills. Steamboat is a great resort, the town has a friendly western charm and Howelsen Hill is the city-run ski area where the town’s famous Winter Sports Club still trains. A great variation on the Steamboat vacation is to stay in the town of Steamboat Springs and get in a few turns on Howelsen.

Ten ways to ski as a family and not break the bank: 1. Ski in early season or late season and take advantage of coupons, discounts, promotions and early season passes.

2. Pack your lunch.

3. Buy slightly used gear and clothing. Take advantage of season-rental packages at local outdoor stores.

4. Don’t drive there and back the same day. Stay at least one night with friends, as a part of a condominium package, or in non-traditional lodging, such as a bed-and-breakfast.

5. Kids ski, stay or eat for free – Look for these deals because free is good.

6. Put people who have never skied before in lessons and group people by ability.

7. Stick to or abide by the 15-minute rule. If a person in your group isn’t at a meeting point within 15 minutes, they are on their own until the end of the day.

8. Don’t push little ones to ski if they aren’t comfortable in ski school, in skis or in the cold.

If your children are younger than 6 years old, be prepared to skip a ski day or two. Some ski-school brochures say that kids must be “3-years-and-up, potty-trained and willing.”

I’m not sure which of the latter is most important. Swap babysitting time with other parents that like to ski, or bring along a grandparent or babysitter. (Bringing your own paid babysitter is by far more affordable than many resort day cares or independent resort babysitters. Many charge $100 per day, per child, just for babysitting. Bring someone from home; pay her $25 and supply food! If you are staying overnight, have an extra bed and give her some free time and you’re set.)

9. Use a helmet. Most ski resorts are implementing helmet rules that advise the use of helmets for kids ages 12 and younger.

10. Have fun. Remember that skiing and snowboarding are outdoor sporting activities designed for enjoyment.

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Ready!

Set!

Deliver!

Tips on preparing for the

BIG DAY

Lynn Utzman-Nichols

S

o you’re pregnant. Congratulations!

No doubt you are nervous for the big day. Soothe your worries by getting prepared. Read on to learn tips on what to expect, what to pack, how to ease labor pains and ways your partner can step in and help on delivery day.

Take a class One of the easiest ways to prepare for childbirth is to take a class. We’ve all watched scenes of couples in Lamaze classes in movies. Whichever type of class you choose, you’ll most likely learn about labor signs and what happens to your body during labor.

You’ll also get tips on coping with pain and how to breathe effectively during labor. There are many choices —from more natural methods such as Lamaze and the Bradley Method, to more general classes offered by the ICEA—International Childbirth Education Association and local hos20

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pitals. The best time to go is 6 to 8 weeks before your due date.

“I call every mom at six weeks post-delivery to check in and see how everything went. When I ask if our class prepared them for delivery, many moms say, ‘Yes, it did, but it especially helped my husband/coach!,’” exclaims Carol Skeen, Coordinator for Family Education and Healthy Families at Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins and Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland. (See side box for local classes).

or midwife ahead of time. When you arrive at the hospital, show it during your intake interview or at your preregistration appointment.

Common elements in birth plans include:

Decide on a birth plan Some women prefer putting their plans in writing, others don’t. Having a birth plan is not required, so do what feels best for you.

Birth plans spell out how you’d like your labor to proceed by providing instructions to nurses and your doctor. If you have one, share it with your doctor

It’s great to think things through, but don’t get too invested in your plan.

A flexible approach is best: “I like to call them birth wishes instead of birth plans because moms don’t always know how things will go until they’re in the moment,” Skeen advises. An easy, fillin-the-blanks birth plan is available at www.thebump.com.

• Who you’d like present • If or when you want medication for pain control • What elements you’d like available during labor • How you’d like to labor • How you’d like the baby monitored • Pain-relief methods • Delivery instructions

Off to the hospital: What to Pack When packing your bag for the hospital, consider what you will need during labor, for your husband or coach, and what you want after delivery for you and baby. Here’s a list to get you started, courtesy of www.babycenter.com:  P icture ID, insurance card, hospital paperwork  Birth plan, if desired  Eyeglasses  Bathrobe, nightgown, slippers, socks  Items to relax you: music, pillows, etc.  Comfortable clothes  Bathing suit (Jacuzzi tub)  Snacks  Cash (for vending machines)  Cell phone and charger  C amera (with extra batteries, charger and video card)  Toiletries  Nursing bra and maternity outfit  Gifts for siblings  N otepad for tracking feedings or recording memories, if desired  Car seat  Outfit and blanket for baby

Know your hospital’s amenities A great way to ease your pre-delivery jitters is to tour the hospital where you plan to deliver. Knowing where you will be laboring and delivering, what’s available and being pre-registered is reassuring.

“Many hospitals try to make the surroundings comfortable for laboring women and their families. At PVH and MCR all birthing rooms are private, with a private bathroom. Most have Jacuzzi tubs and shower massagers. Other amenities include a mini-fridge, CD player, movies, WIFI, adjustable beds and a bed or sleep chair for dads,” Skeen says.

The UCHealth hospitals also have birth balls and peanut balls to help moms labor in various positions, along with squat bars, stirrups and pedals.

“Once active labor begins, mom receives one-on-one nursing care, and the same is true for the baby, once it’s born,” Skeen adds. PVH and MCR have both earned the Baby Friendly status, an important certification that means the hospitals puts moms and babies first—and promotes healthy habits, like skin-to-skin time, rooming in and breastfeeding support—to get babies off to a great start.

“One of our most fun amenities is serving the parents a bistro meal to celebrate the birth. It’s a gourmet meal of chicken, seafood and even lobster,” Skeen says.

Learn how to control labor pain A big concern for expectant moms is surviving the pain of labor. Every new mom has heard a few horror stories about birth—and hopefully a few positive ones. Skeen offers tips on how to control pain during labor: Breathe. “Breathing is phenomenal for pain relief. I still use my Lamaze breathing to control back pain,” she says.

Ask for a TENS unit. TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. It’s a non-invasive unit with pads that deliver electrical currents through the skin to interrupt pain signals sent along nerves. “TENS units really work.

We have a whole separate class in using TENS for pain control,” Skeen adds.

Change positions frequently. Walking, moving stretching, rolling on a birth ball and squatting all help labor progress and keep taxed muscles relaxed. “Even if you have an epidural, the nurse can position you in bed,” she advises.

Use a rebozo scarf or squat bar. Rebozo scarves can be wrapped around the belly and back to provide support and ease pain. They can also be used as a sling of sorts, held by your partner, to

provide relief. “Rebozo scarves are really popular with our moms. There are many ways to use them. One is having mom get on all fours and her coach positions the scarf under her belly, then pulls up gently and rocks her back and forth,” Skeen describes.

Soak in a bath or get a massage. Have your partner massage your tired back and shoulders with hand pressure or a shower massager. “Ice packs and heating pads are also available,” she adds.

Talk to your doctor about medical pain control. Analgesics and epidurals are used to control labor pain, and are available to you.

Enlist your partner’s help Dads and other labor partners can do a lot during labor. Don’t hesitate to give them instructions on everything from controlling the music to offering emotional and physical support.

“Dads can help support moms in so many ways. I tell dads that they are the voice for the mom. When she is focused on labor, he can speak to doctors, nurses and family members,” concludes Skeen.

While giving birth can be uncomfortable, it’s temporary—and one of the most important things you will ever do.

Relax and enjoy the process of welcoming your new baby into the world.

UCHealth sponsored this article.

Childbirth Classes at MCR and PVH Taking a class and touring the hospital are important ways to prepare for delivery day. Here are a few offered at PVH and MCR each month. Call 970-495-7500 to register. For details and more class options—including additional dates and times for classes listed below—visit www.pvhs.org.

Parent Preview Tour Interactive hospital tour for mother and coach. Expectant parents view rooms (if available) and learn about amenities.

Where: Poudre Valley Hospital, Main Lobby, 1024 S Lemay Ave, Fort Collins (Also offered in November and December at MCR) When: Nov. 2 OR 16 OR Dec. 7, 11 am – 12 pm and various Saturdays and Thursdays, ongoing.

Cost: Free

Childbirth Fast Track Class Don’t have time to take a six-week childbirth class? Try this weekend one instead. This condensed class helps prepare mother and labor coach for the birth experience.

Where: Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., Mt. Audubon Room, Loveland (Also offered in November and December at PVH) When: Nov. 15 & 16 OR Dec 20 & 21: Fri. 6:30-9:30 pm and Sat. 1-5 pm Cost: $55

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Thanksgiving Day D 11:00am to 5:00pm

inner

Oven-Roasted Turkey Prime Rib • Vegetaria n Quiche Honey-Baked Spiral Ham

Plus all the trimmings

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and pie!

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thompson school district news

Food drive held for flood victims

On September 21, a food drive was held at several Loveland supermarkets to benefit the “Disaster Relief Center” located in the Agilent complex in Loveland, where victims could receive assistance in recovering from the flood that devastated the community.

Volunteers were located in front of the stores to distribute shopping lists for the most needed nonperishable food items. Customers were encouraged to purchase whatever they could from the list and then donate it when leaving the store. Any donations that are not distributed during this emergency will be sent to the House of Neighborly Service.

Results from the drive are quite impressive: An estimated 11,200 pounds of food and other items were donated, which equates to 5.6 tons! A total of $2,088 in cash, checks and gift cards was also donated, along with a number of blankets and clothing items. THANK YOU for all of your support!

Little free library helps promote literacy Stansberry Elementary School has welcomed the addition of a new Little Free Library, which was built and painted by volunteers from Good Shepherd Church in August.

A Little Free Library is a “take a 24

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book, return a book” gathering place where neighbors share their favorite literature and stories. The library is a designated location where anyone may stop by and pick up a book (or two) and bring back another book to share. Its purpose is to encourage literacy, a love for reading and neighborly relationships in our community.

Money for materials came through Dr. Stansberry’s memorial contributions.

Parents, students and community members may take home books to read or drop off appropriate books, donate

money to Stansberry for books, or donate magazine subscriptions.

The school’s Little Free Library is located in the front of the building and is accessible at any time, including evenings, weekends, summer break and winter break.

Recorders purchased for thirdgrade students in TSD The Elementary Instrumental Music Fund at Thompson Education Foundation recently purchased 1,153 recorders for third grade students in Thompson School District. Established in 2000, the Elementary Instrumental Music Fund provides the opportunity for an annual recorder purchase for every third-grade student in the district. The recorders introduce the students to the personal accomplishment of learning to read notes and play music on their own instrument.

With this early introduction, the recorders help provide a bridge for students to continue their instrumental music studies as they progress through middle school to high school and potentially beyond.

Elementary music teachers will integrate the recorders into the thirdgrade music curriculum throughout the school year.

Happy 40th Birthday, Namaqua Elementary School! Students and staff gathered on September 3 to celebrate the school’s special day.

PLAY PLAY

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FOCO SPARTAN BABES! NOW RECRUITING GIRLS, AGES 7-11 and 12-17 VOLUNTEERS AND REFEREES! PRACTICE IS AT ROLLERLAND SKATE CENTER 324 SOUTH LINK LANE • FORT COLLINS

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

visit us online at: spartanbabes.weebly.com

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poudre school district news Webber volunteer gives back to community

Frances Marie Maizland wants to give parents an opportunity to participate in their children’s lives.

Poudre School District has over 18,000 volunteers, consisting of parents, grandparents, seniors and community members. Managing that many volunteers in 48 schools is quite a feat! Helping the PSD’s Volunteers and Partnerships office manage the multitude of volunteers at each school site is a Volunteer Building Coordinator (VBC). These dedicated volunteers donate many hours to ensure the volunteer program at their school is a success. Some have done it for many years, starting in elementary schools, and continuing in this volunteer position even after their children move on to middle school and even high school!

Frances Marie Maizland, Volunteer Building Coordinator for Webber Middle School, began this volunteer position in 2010. They moved from southern California in 2006 and Webber was the first public school her daughter attended. “I was so very impressed with Webber and the Poudre School District,” says Maizland. Her daughter, Kiefer, has since graduated from Rocky Mountain High School and is now in college. Maizland’s son, Vincent, is in 26

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sixth grade at Webber. Maizland says, “I love the school so much that when the opportunity came to help out, even though my son was still attending McGraw, I jumped on it!”

Maizland enjoys working with the staff and parents of the Webber community. “I want to make life easy and communicate as much information as I can, so that parents want to volunteer and be involved in their child’s world.” Maizland has been very instrumental in getting the volunteer needs of Webber fulfilled.

She currently works full time for Colorado State University with the Center for Environmental Management for Military Lands as the Purchasing Agent for the department. She also actively volunteers as the Community Outreach Coordinator for Studio West Dance Center for the Performing Arts, where her son, Vincent, dances competitively. She is a 2013 graduate of the CSU Citizens Police Academy stating, “It was hard, but a lot of fun!” In her “spare” time, she enjoys obstacle course 5K mud runs, and is a Be Bad Hip Hop dancer in Fort Collins twice a week. Maizland says, “I love to dance, and I am always looking for ways to give back to my new home of Fort Collins, Colorado.”

“I love being in both of my kids’ lives and want to make opportunities, and make it easy, for other parents to be involved in their kid’s lives,” says Maizland.

PSD Heat Committee to recommend options to Superintendent PSD Superintendent Dr. Sandra Smyser is working to find viable options for addressing the heat issues experienced at the beginning of the school year. A community survey was held in September and a PSD Heat Committee was established to discuss the issues and potential solutions. The Heat Committee will recommend options to the superintendent. The goal is to have a potential solution prior to adopting the

PSD calendar in December. Parents and staff will be notified of the final recommendation. For more information, visit the Heat Committee web page located under Quick Links on the PSD website home page.

Food Advisory Panel makes recommendations The Food Advisory Panel, a panel of experts from the nutrition industry, was created in 2012 to address parent concerns with food served for school lunches. In the past year the panel reviewed operations in PSD’s Child Nutrition program and selected Prismatic, a company out of North Carolina, to conduct a comprehensive Child Nutrition program evaluation. Prismatic surveyed parents, students and staff and created a final report with recommendations. The FAP reviewed the report and made recommendations to the Superintendent, who reported them to the PSD Board of Education in September 2013. Visit the FAP web page on the PSD website (located under Community/Community Committees on the top tool bar of the home page) for more information.

PSD students report remarkable rainfall to precipitation monitoring network It was a big coincidence that “Rain Gauge Week” was held in schools the same week the Colorado flood occurred.

As a result, participating Poudre School District schools reported extraordinary rain measurements, making a valuable contribution to a precipitationmonitoring network.

For years, several PSD schools have been measuring precipitation with rain gauges every month and reporting data as part of Colorado State University’s Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network program, also known as CoCoRaHS, a nonprofit, community-based network of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds who

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A student at O’Dea Core Knowledge Elementary checks a rain gauge during the week of the flood.

measure and map rain, hail and snow.

Data collected by CoCoRaHS is used by the National Weather Service, meteorologists, scientists, engineers, farmers and other organizations and individuals that need precipitation data. This year CoCoRaHS’ special “Rain Gauge Week” just happened to be scheduled the same week the flood occurred.

“The CoCoRaHS for Schools ‘Rain Gauge Week’ ended up being perfect timing,” says Newman. “With this recent big storm, the pure coincidence of equipping and training hundreds of schools across Colorado to record and report their precipitation during the same week, turned into a victory for science.”

Several PSD schools measured more than two inches of precipitation within a 24-hour period on Sept. 12, the day for the largest measurements during the storm. Those schools included: • Wellington Middle School: 2.24 inches • Red Feather Lakes Elementary: 2.36 inches • Timnath Elementary: 2.00 inches • Beattie Elementary: 2.20 inches • O’Dea Core Knowledge Elementary: 2.25 inches • Shepardson Elementary: 2.29 inches

Newman says to report one inch of rain in a 24-hour period is very unusual and for students to report two inches is 28

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a big deal. “Personally, I’ve been measuring at my house for over four years. I’ve measured over one inch in a 24-hour period only a few times, and never more than two inches,” he says.

“We were pretty amazed at the amount of water we got in September,” says Debbie Goodwin, gifted and talented coordinator at O’Dea Core Knowledge Elementary. “Last year was our first year at data gathering and it’s always interesting to see how much or how little rain we get in Colorado.”

At O’Dea, fourth-graders collect and submit precipitation data to CoCoRahs every morning. “Gathering rain/snow data and submitting it to CoCoRahs has given us a better understanding of why we need to measure the water accurately,” says Goodwin. “Our school is contributing information to help other agencies like the National Weather Service, the National Drought Mitigation Service, and even NASA. It’s exciting that our contributions can help make a difference in the study of precipitation.”

Many PSD schools have been participating in CoCoRaHS since it was created by the Colorado Climate Center in 1998, a year after the Spring Creek flood in Fort Collins.

PSD Channel 10 also features the students’ work and data in monthly Water Report videos. The September Water Report with precipitation data from the flood will be available later in October.

To watch previous water reports, visit the Channel 10 web page.

For more information about CoCoRaHS, visit the CoCoRaHS website.

Tavelli students take on the cardboard challenge In the midst of a technological world that includes Smartphones, iPods, computer games and Skype, what do today’s kids do when asked to create something from a simple cardboard box?

Tavelli Elementary fifth-graders proved they could do a lot and have fun while doing it too. Tavelli students took on a “cardboard challenge,” designing and creating arcade games from cardboard. The activity is based on the Global Cardboard Challenge that invites kids to use their imaginations and build

something unique out of cardboard and simple materials.

The fifth-graders set up their original games in an “arcade” in the gym and invited students from the other grades to play them.

Kaiden Yates created a game involving a catapult. “Basically it’s like skeet ball. It’s a catapult and you slingshot little pieces of paper into the hole,” says Kaiden, who says the fun activity was right up his alley. “I’ve always had a dream to be an engineer or do something involving building.”

Sage Harrison enjoyed the cardboard challenge because it was something different to do in school.

“This helped me use my imagination a little bit more and it taught me that I can build more than what I thought I could,” says Sage, who made up a catapult game that involved hitting different cardboard things to earn points. “I liked this because it was new and none of my sisters got to do it. It gave me new ideas on how to use cardboard. We have so much of it at home.”

Fifth-grade teacher Missy Yarbrough says the activity was a perfect fit for Tavelli’s STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) focus.

“The goal was for them to be creative with the process, making up their own inventions and prototypes,” says Yarbrough. “It’s so important for them to be creative. They had to look at a cardboard box and see something different. It was incredible to see their minds working and what they came up with.”

In addition to the fifth-grade Cardboard Challenge, students from other grades also enjoyed creating items out of cardboard in Tavelli’s science lab.

PSD Calendar of Events Nov. 12 ........ 6:30pm, Board of Education business meeting, JSSC Conference Center Nov. 26 ........ 6:30pm, Board of Education business meeting and work session, JSSC Conference Center.

Nov. 27-29 .. No School! – Thanksgiving Dec. 2 ......... N o School for K-8 students, Teacher Collaboration Day

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greeley-evans district 6 news Seventy-three students earn ‘AP Scholar’ status Sloan-Whipple, Dominick Smith, Nathan Smythe, Meg Weishahn, and Edward Welsh; • AP Scholar with Honor: Reyna Gonzalez, Brendan Scheidt and Colista West; • AP Scholar with Distinction: Austin Bradfield, Addy Neibauer* and Patrick Ryan.

Greeley West High School

• AP Scholar: Luis Carlos-Manrique,

Seventy-three students from Greeley-Evans School District 6 high schools have earned prestigious AP Scholar Awards from the national College Board organization for their exceptional achievement on Advanced Placement exams taken in May 2013.

In 2012, 57 students earned AP Scholar Awards.

The College Board’s Advanced Placement program offers students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses and exams while in high school. District 6 offers more than 20 Advanced Placement courses to high school students. Students who score well on AP exams are eligible to receive college credit, advanced placement in college, or both at more than 3,200 colleges and universities across the United States.

At the end of each summer, the College Board recognizes those students who have taken multiple AP exams and scored well on them: • AP Scholar: Students who earned scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams.

• AP Scholar with Honor: Students who earned an average score of at least 3.25 on

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all AP exams taken and had scores of 3 or higher on at least four exams.

• AP Scholar with Distinction: Students who earned an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and had scores of 3 or higher on at least five exams.

• National AP Scholar: Students who earned an average score of at least 4 on all AP exams taken and had scores of 4 or higher on at least eight exams.

The 2013 College Board Advanced Placement Scholars from District 6 are listed below. Some of these students were seniors in May 2013 and are now attending colleges and universities across the United States. Others were juniors in May, and are now in their senior year of high school. Students with an asterisk were also named as an AP Scholar in 2012.

Greeley Central High School

• AP Scholar: Francisco J. Alvarado

Vega, Paloma Barraza, Shiru Guo, Nicole C. Haug, Andrew Krieger, Persephone Lawrence-Wescot, Efrain Lemus, Elizabeth Lowell, Barbara Lundebjerg, Joseph Martinez, Tyrus Mclachlan, Mathilda Newman, Holly

Brian Halsey, Sara Lance, Steve Marcantonio, Brandon Mattes, Kaitlyn Powell, Brandon Shevela, Ryan Vance, Addison Vergara, Uillam Walsh and Aaron Zimola; • AP Scholar with Honor: Lindsay Dalton, Erik Frankline, Kirstine Hopwood and Alyssa Shepherd; • AP Scholar with Distinction: Jonathan Jeffers and Joel Knepper*.

Northridge High School

• AP Scholar: JoDavid Borski, Kelsi

Kautz, Alicia Kelly, Alva Madera, Justus Martin, Selena Palomino, and Michael Vierow; • AP Scholar with Honor: Anna Harkabus and Vanessa Martinez; • AP Scholar with Distinction:

Amanda Cary, Ashley Edinger and Katrina San Nicolas.

Frontier Academy Charter School

• AP Scholar: Chibulkem Nwizu; • AP Scholar with Honor: Jon Han Chest-

nut, Kyle Crews and Joshua Mellin*;

• AP Scholar with Distinction: Kyle Patel.

University Schools Charter School

• AP Scholar: Brenna Birt, Hawken Carl-

ton, Garrett Coles, Jacqueline Gergely, Sallaymatu Kallon, Orion Lowen, Brandon Medhurst, Castilleja Olmsted, Chase Otto, Rebecca Reeve, Brandon Sandoval, Robert Schreibman, Sofia Softas-Nall; • AP Scholar with Honor: Brendan Azama; • AP Scholar with Distinction: Avery Hitchcock and Svetlana Zwetkof.

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If you would like to help, donations can be made online at www. greeleyschools.org or by calling Communications Director Theresa Myers at (970) 348-6003.

National research shows that high school students who take AP classes and score well on AP exams typically go on to experience greater success in college. For example, a 2008 study found that college graduation rates were 62 percent higher for students who took AP English Literature in high school compared those who took other English courses.

In the last seven years, 389 District 6 students have been named by the College Board as AP Scholars.

District 6 continues to assist students displaced by flooding More than 800 Greeley-Evans School District 6 students lost their homes in the September flooding in Evans and Greeley, and the school district is working hard, with the help of some generous community donors, to make sure all the students have what they need to continue their education.

Hundreds of school uniforms, shoes, socks, backpacks and school supplies have been given to the students, now designated as homeless through the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Transportation back to their home school is also being provided for nearly 200 students.

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sure displaced students have coats, gloves, hats and winter gear.

The District has received some very generous donations from the community and faith organizations throughout the area to help in the recovery effort. We appreciate the incredible outpouring of assistance we have received.

Engage Online Academy opens new Learning Center Engage Online Academy, the middle and high school online educational option operated by Greeley-Evans School District 6, has opened a new Learning Center for students.

The Learning Center offers a unique space where students can get assistance with their online classes from full-time instructors who work at the site. It is located in the former Cameron Elementary School at 1424 13th Avenue in Greeley.

At the Learning Center, students can access computers and other learning materials, as well as get one-onone help. The Learning Center will be open from 8am-2pm on Mondays, and 8am-3:30pm Tuesday-Friday. It follows the regular District 6 calendar for vacations and holidays.

ENGAGE offers nearly 40 classes in core subject areas and electives.

It is a full diploma program, and is open to students outside of District 6.

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

are $0.40. Entrees offered daily: Elementary—a variety of fruits and vegetables, milk and juices; Secondary--hot and cold sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, deli salad and pizza.

Elementary schoolS 1 Mandarin chicken salad; penne & meat sauce; hamburger 4 Yogurt & fruit box; orange chicken w/ rice; hot dog 5 Chicken Caesar salad; cheeseburger; chicken enchilada bake 6 PBJ; ranch chicken bites; mac n’cheese 7 Mediterranean wrap; cheese raviolis; pepperoni pizza 8 Ham & cheese deli; grilled cheese & tomato soup; Teriyaki chicken sandwich 11 Hummus & veggies; chicken nuggets; beef tacos

12 Chef salad; BBQ chicken sandwich; cheese pizza 13 PBJ; chicken broccoli Alfredo; lasagna 14 Turkey & cheese deli; sloppy Joe sandwich; cheese quesadilla 15 Veggie wrap; chili & cinnamon roll; cheeseburger 18 Mandarin chicken salad; mac n’cheese; chicken quesadilla 19 PBJ; ranch chicken sandwich; rice w/ egg roll 20 Yogurt & fruit box; Italian spaghetti; turkey pot pie 21 Chef salad; cheese pizza; pig in a blanket

22 Hummus & veggies; teriyaki bowl; beef enchilada bake 25 PBJ; burrito; chicken nuggets 26 Thanksgiving lunch 27-29 No School!

Secondary schools 1 Asian noodle bowl 4 Mac n’cheese; chicken tacos 5 Italian spahetti; cheese quesadilla 6 Ranch chicken bites; chicken enchilada bake 7 Potato bar w/chili; Spanish chicken 8 Turkey pot pie; teriyaki bowl 11 Chicken nuggets; beef tacos 12 Lasagna; chicken noodle soup w/grilled

ham & cheese 13 Baked chicken & biscuit; burrito 14 Penne pasta & sauce; chicken fajita 15 Beef Szechwan; chicken tacos 18 Mac n’cheese; rice & egg roll 19 BBQ chicken bites; beef enchilada bake 20 Baked chicken & biscuit; spaghetti & meatballs 21 Chicken broccoli Alfredo; beef tacos 22 Teriyaki bowl; turkey pot pie 25 Nachos el grande; penne pasta & sauce 26 Drumstick & mash; beef tacos 27-29 No school!

Thompson R2J School District — Elementary lunches are $2.50. Secondary school lunches are $2.75. Reduced lunches are

$0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit.

1 Baja fish taco; garden entrée salad 4 Mac n’cheese; Caesar salad 5 Variety pizza; chicken tender salad 6 Chicken breast strips; chef salad 7 Chicken burrito bowl; taco salad 8 Ham & cheese roll-up; garden entrée salad 11 Grilled chicken; Caesar salad 12 Pesto pasta; chicken tender salad

13 BBQ pork sliders; chef salad 14 Beef & bean tostada; taco salad 15 Orange chicken; garden entrée salad 18 Chicken nuggets; Caesar salad 19 French bread boat; chicken tender salad 20 BBQ chicken breast; chef salad 21 Chicken fajita taco; taco salad 22 Thanksgiving meal

25-29 No school!

Secondary schools 1 Baja fish taco; grilled chicken salad 4 Mac n’cheese; veggie quesadilla 5 Cheese pizza; chicken fajita wrap 6 Fiesta bar 7 Chicken burrito bowl; meatball sandwich 8 Ham & cheese pocket; French bread boat

11 Grilled chicken sandwich; nachos w/ meat 12 Pesto pasta; hamburger 13 Pizza bar 14 Beef & bean tostada; chicken nuggets 15 Orange chicken; pretzel w/cheese 18-22 Manager’s choice 25-29 No school!

Greeley District 6 —To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.25, and middle school lunches are $2.50, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ. Elementary schoolS 1 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 4 Pork caritas w/tortilla; chicken salad sandwich 5 Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich; turkey & cheese wrap 6 Toasted cheese sandwich w/tomato soup; PBJ 7 BBQ chicken w/roll; ham & cheese hoagie 8 Veggie or cheese pizza; tuna salad sandwich 11 BBQ pork sandwich; chick-

en salad sandwich 12 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; turkey & cheese wrap 13 Lasagna w/breadstick; PBJ 14 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 15 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; PBJ 18 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 19 Burrito; turkey & cheese wrap 20 Pasta w/meat sauce; PBJ 21 Roast turkey w/roll; ham & cheese hoagie

22 Cheese or taco pizza; tuna salad sandwich 25 Mac n’cheese w/roll; chicken salad sandwich 26 Chili w/cinnamon roll; turkey & cheese wrap 27-29 No School!

Secondary schools 1 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 4 Pork caritas w/tortilla; chicken salad sandwich 5 Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich; turkey & cheese wrap

6 Toasted cheese sandwich w/tomato soup; PBJ 7 BBQ chicken w/roll; Italian hoagie 8 Veggie or cheese pizza; tuna salad sandwich 11 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 12 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 13 Lasagna w/breadstick; PBJ 14 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 15 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; PBJ

18 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 19 Burrito; turkey & cheese wrap 20 Pasta w/meat sauce; PBJ 21 Roast turkey w/roll; Italian hoagie 22 Cheese or taco pizza; tuna salad sandwich 25 Mac n’cheese w/roll; chicken fajita wrap 26 Chili w/cinnamon roll; club hoagie 27-29 No School!

Windsor School District — Price for elementary lunch is $2.30, for middle school students, $2.50. Reduced lunches are

$0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt.

Elementary schoolS 1 Cheese-stuffed bread sticks w/dip 4 Popcorn chicken 5 Hot dog 6 French toast 7 Spaghetti w/meat sauce 8 Big Daddy pizza 11 Chicken sandwich 12 Beef stroganoff

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13 Mozzarella sticks w/tomato soup 14 Chicken Alfredo 15 Cheese or pepperoni pizza 18 Chicken nuggets 19 Cheesy nachos 20 Mini ravioli 21 Turkey gravy w/mashed potatoes 22 Cheese or veggie pizza 25-29 No school!

Secondary 1 Meatball sub 4 Popcorn chicken 5 Weiner wrap 6 French toast 7 Spaghetti w/meat sauce 8 Tuscan turkey wrap 11 Chicken sandwich 12 Beef stroganoff

13 Mozzarella sticks w/tomato soup 14 Chicken Alfredo 15 Steak & cheese sandwich 18 Chicken nuggets 19 Cheesy nachos 20 Stuffed shells 21 Turkey gravy w/mashed potatoes 22 Hot & spicy chicken sandwich 25-29 No school!

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N O VE M B ER 2 0 1 3 ONGOING Through November 3 She Loves Me Georg and Amalia are two feuding clerks in a European parfumerie during the 1930’s who secretly find solace in their anonymous romantic penpals, little knowing their respective correspondents are none other than each other. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Dr., Johnstown, CO. 970-744-3747 or www.coloradocandlelight.com.

Through November 23 Les Miserables This global stage sensation makes its Northern Colorado debut at MAC! Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970-225-2555 or www. midtownartscenter.com.

November 1-3 Friends of the Library Giant Used Book Sale!

The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 8:30am-8:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

November 2-30 The Seafarer Presented by OpenStage Theatre & Company. It’s Christmas Eve in a decrepit apartment on the edge of Dublin. Two brothers, Sharky and Richard, welcome friends and one devilishly charming guest over for an evening of spirits and poker, only to find that the stakes are damningly high. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

November 8-17 Fiddler on the Roof The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us.

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November 14 - January 5 Scrooge! The Musical Bring the whole family for this holiday classic! Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Dr., Johnstown, CO. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com.

November 22-24 Ronald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka” A family musical. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

November 27 – January 5 Over the Tavern In the nostalgia-laden Eisenhower years of the 1950’s, the large Pazinski family has a lot going on in their cramped apartment “Over the Tavern.” This is a warm and hilarious look at family, love and growing up Catholic. Bas Bleu Theatre Company, 401 Pine St., FC. 970498-8949 or www.basbleu.org.

November 29 – December 31 White Christmas, the Musical!

Enjoy this holiday classic! Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970-2252555 or www.midtownartscenter.com.

Friday, November 1 First Friday Gallery Walk Featuring over 20 galleries and special exhibits! Old Town, FC. 6-9pm. 970-484-6500 or www.

DowntownFortCollins.com.

Community Health Talk Nutrition response testing and how it works. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 10-11:30am. 970-9622665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Great Ideas Discussion Group Join this group for a stimulating and fun discussion of the great philosophical questions. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 2-3:30pm. 970-9622665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

John Batiste and Stay Human With his unique voice, virtuosic piano chops and dapper sense of style, Jon Batiste transcends music genres and has ignited the New York City music scene.

The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com.

Excel Beyond Basics Excel is a spreadsheet program used for automating calculations, creating charts, forms, and more. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 9-11am. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Scrabble @ Your Library Players of all ability and experience levels are welcome. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 10am - Noon. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Noches en Familia Come and enjoy a time of stories, crafts, puppets, and songs in Spanish. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 5-6pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Harmony in the Round with P ark Hill Brass Join us for an after-hours swinging concert. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

I am the Voice of...

Presented by El Teatro, a multilingual, multicultural theatre program created by students to showcase their culture, past experiences, and the lessons we can learn from one another. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 6pm. 970356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

High Country Dance: Studio Showcase The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us.

Get Your Neon On Wear fun, bright, blinding neon colors during cosmic skating! Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. 7:15-8:45pm. www. greeleyicehaus.com.

Saturday, November 2 Readcon A celebration of all the great things about reading and our libraries. Farr Regional Library, High Plains Library District, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 9am-9pm.

970-506-8500 or www.mylibrary.us.

Fort Collins Symphony: On the Cusp The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com.

Word Basics Learn how to use Microsoft Word to write letters, papers, resumes, and much more. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am-Noon. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Make Art @ the Library: Mixed Media Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 2-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Movie Night @ the Library: WALL-E Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org. iLearn Technology: Computer Basics 101 (Windows 7) This class is for beginners. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30am. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Loveland Loves Origami Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 11am-1pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Caution: Novelists at Work Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Pre-Concert Party prior to Foreigner Concert Join your friends for a party you won’t soon forget. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 5:30pm. 970-3565000 or www.ucstars.com.

Read & Seed: Hibernation Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Night at the Races Presented by Meals on Wheels of Loveland. Fountains of Loveland, 1480 Cascade Ave., LV. 6pm. 970-667-0311 or www.lovelandmealsonwheels.org.

Tuesday, November 5 Medicaid Eligibility and Long Term Care Insurance This seminar will discuss who is eligible for Medicaid and will explore the options for long-term care insurance.

Farr Regional Library, High Plains Library District, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 970-506-8500 or www. mylibrary.us.

Sunday, November 3 Authors Alive: Author Erik Larson Visits Hilton, 425 W Prospect Rd., FC. 1-3pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

NaNoWriMo Launch Party and Write-In Join us for National Novel Writing Month Launch Party! Get ahead on your word count while enjoying coffee and other drinks. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Mercy Me Formed in Texas in the mid-1990s, this band his the mainstream music spotlight in 2001 with their smash his I Can Only Imagine. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Monday, November 4 Author Visit: C.M. Wendelbee Come hear this Wyoming mystery author talk about his novels. He is a retired lawman, has written three mysteries in the “Spirit Road” series featuring FBI agent Manny Tanno. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Read & Seed: Hibernation Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Mommy and Me Yoga Cool Beans Playhouse, 4019 S. Mason St., #5, FC. 9-10am. 970-266-1135 or www. coolbeansplayhouse.com.

Busqueda de Trabajo En estas clases aprenderá diferentes herramientas para buscar trabajo de manera eficiente por medio del Internet, se ofrecerán guías que explican cómo escribir un Currículum (résumé), así como darle seguimiento a una aplicación.

Estas clases son en español. The Family Center, 309 Hickory St., FC. Noon-2pm.

970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries. org.

Computer Comfort This class offers the basics and hands-on training on computers. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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An End to the Trend Antarctic ecosystem response to climate variability in the McMurdo Dry Valleys.

Part of the Antarctic Lecture Series. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Author Visit with Steve Jimenez Author of “The Book of Matt: Hidden Truths About the Murder of Matthew Shepard,” a controversial new look at Shepard’s death and the motivation for the crime. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Library eBooks on Your iPads, iPhones, Smartphones and Tablets Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Noontime Nature with Kevin Cook Master of survival, house spatsy.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. Noon. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Chess Club Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Homework Help Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Creative Writing for Teens Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor.

3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Wednesday, November 6 Nature Notes Club Interact with nature while expressing your artistic side with journaling, photography, painting, and any other creative means you’d like to explore.

Time and Location TBA. 970-619-4489 or www.larimer.org/naturalresources.

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Wednesdays Wild World of Art Class: Mini Food Scultures Play with your food without getting into trouble. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 3:30-4:30pm. 970962-2410 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Nighttime Nature with Kevin Cook Master of disguise, white-tailed Ptarmigan. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 6pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Lego Club Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor.

3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Thursday, November 7 Grant-seeking Basics using Foundation Directory Online Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 4-6pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Immigration Classes The Family Center, 309 Hickory St., FC. 5:30-7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Genealogy Society Meeting Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 6:30-8:45pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

150 Years of Front Pages Stories from the Rocky Mountain News Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Loveland Loves Origami Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 1pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Genealogy Help @ Your Library Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 1pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Kindle & Library eBooks Loveland Loves Origami Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 5:30pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Gear Heads: Duct Tape Teens, get crafty! Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 6-7:30pm. 970-6865603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Friday, November 8 Warren Miller’s Ticket to Ride Check out this 64th Annual ski and snowboard film! The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 6:30pm & 9:30pm.

970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Conocimiento Basico de Computacion En esta clase aprenderá lo elemental de una computadora; sus partes, sus funciones y cómo utilizarla para uso básico. Puede asistir a más de una clase. The Family Center, 309 Hickory St., FC. 10am-Noon. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Computer Basics This class offers beginning and hands-on training on the basic components of computers, using the keyboard and the mouse and beginning Internet browsing. The Family Center, 309 Hickory St., FC. Noon-2pm.

970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Harmony in the Round with Spanish Flamenco Music and Dance Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Zeigeist: Paintings Inspired by Germany Scott and Mollie Freeman’s exhibit open with a public reception. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 6-9pm. 970-962-2410 or www. ci.loveland.co.us. iLearn Technology: Internet 101 Learn about web browsers, search engines, webpages and more! Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30am. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Saturday, November 9 Joel Salatin Presented by The Sustainable Living Association. Salatin is a famous American farmer, lecturer and author.

The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 4pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com.

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Hops for Hope Presented by American Eagle Distributing. Beer, spirits and food.

A portion of the proceeds will go to Realities for Children. Budweiser Event Center, 5290 Arena Circle, LV. 5-9pm. 970-619-4100 or www. budweisereventcenter.com.

Introduction to Genealogy Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 10am-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Word Beyond Basics Go beyond the basics of word processing. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am-Noon. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Chess @ Your Library Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome to join us for these informal drop-in chess games. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 11am-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Teen IRS: Interesting Reader Society Meeting Join this special group of young adults in grades 6-12 who meet monthly to talk books, movies, music, and other topics of interest to teens. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 11am-1pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Knitting Club Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 3pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Mommy and Me Yoga Cool Beans Playhouse, 4019 S. Mason St., #5, FC. 9-10am. 970-266-1135 or www. coolbeansplayhouse.com.

Sunday, November 10 NaNoWriMo Write-In Come write with others! Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Busqueda de Trabajo En estas clases aprenderá diferentes herramientas para buscar trabajo de manera eficiente por medio del Internet, se ofrecerán guías que explican cómo escribir un Currículum (résumé), así como darle seguimiento a una aplicación. Estas clases son en español. The Family Center, 309 Hickory St., FC. Noon-2pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Genealogy Program: Wills and Probate Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-3pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Romance Novelists Discussion Authors Julia Quinn and Laura Lee Guhrke will speak about their latest novels. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 2-3:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

101st Army Band Enjoy this Veterans Day concert! Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 2pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Hands-On Wikipedia Edit-a-thon Come help put Fort Collins specific information on Wikipedia! Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Monday, November 11 Dancing in Combat Boots Learn about the role of women during WWII. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Wills and Trusts The presenter will also discuss probate, powers of attorney, taxes, and other common legal processes. Centennial Park Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 11am. 970-5068622 or www.mylibrary.us.

iLearn Technology: Gmail 101 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 5:30pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

iLearn Technology: Microsoft Excel 101 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 12:30pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

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Tuesday, November 12 Read & Seed: Paper Whites Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Kevin Cook: Colorado Birds Great stories of life and living. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Noon-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Anime Club Teens gather together after school to watch anime favorites, chat about manga, and munch some yummy snacks.

Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 4-5:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Internet Searching Let the pros teach you how to use subject directories and search engines to search more easily and effectively. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

International Night: A Study Tour in Isreal and Palestine Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Honoring Old Glory In honor of Veterans Day, join us for a flag raising ceremony. Lincoln Park Library, High Plains Library District, 919 7th St., GR. 4pm. 970-506-8622 or www.mylibrary.us. eReaders, eBooks and Apps We will show you how to download audiobooks and eBooks for free from your library. Lincoln Park Library, High Plains Library District, 919 7th St., GR. 6:30pm.

970-506-8622 or www.mylibrary.us.

family

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Wills and Trusts The presenter will also discuss probate, powers of attorney, taxes, and other common legal processes. Farr Regional Library, High Plains Library District, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 970-5068500 or www.mylibrary.us. iLearn Technology: Microsoft Excel 201 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30am. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org. iLearn Technology: Computer Basics 201 (Windows 7): Next Steps Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30-11:30am. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Chess Club Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Homework Help Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Geology Rocks!

Dig into the mysteries of geology.

Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor.

2pm & 3:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Creative Writing for Teens Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor.

3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Wednesday, November 13 Breastfeeding Basics Topics include process of breastfeeding and ways to prevent and care for problems. Westbridge Medical Suites, 1107 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 7-9pm. 970-4957500 or www.pvhs.org.

Grant-seeking Basics using Foundation Directory Online Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 11am-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

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Rocky Mountain Raptors: Hawks Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Wednesdays Wild World of Art Class: Fast Ink Create bold drawings with black ink, and complement them with color.

Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 3:30-4:30pm. 970962-2410 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Mammoths in Colorado Take a trip to the Pleistocene! Farr Regional Library, High Plains Library District, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6:30pm.

970-506-8500 or www.mylibrary.us.

Affordable Care Act with Nancy Hazelrigg How will it affect you, your family, and your business? Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 6:30pm. 970-9622665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Homework Help Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Lego Club Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor.

3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Thursday, November 14 SYBARITE5 From Mozart to Radiohead, SYBARITE5’s eclectic repertoire and dynamic performance style is turning heads throughout the music world. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm.

970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Immigration Classes The Family Center, 309 Hickory St., FC. 5:30-7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Author Visit: John Searles John Searles is the author of the bestselling novels “Boy Still Missing” and “Strange But True.” Hilton, 425 W Prospect Rd., FC. 7-9:30pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

iLearn Technology: Microsoft Word 201 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30am. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Genealogy Help @ Your Library Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 1pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Nook & Library eBooks Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 5:30pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Friday, November 15 History Comes Alive: Otto Mears Mears was one of the most influential men in the pioneering era of Colorado.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Men Are From Mars – Women Are From Venus LIVE! A fusion between theatre and stand-up.

The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com.

Tot Art Class: Harvest Painting Vibrant watercolor will bring your harvest painting to life! Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10:30-11:30am. 970-962-2410 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Foodie Walk Enjoy a self-guided tour of fantastic spice, specialty & culinary-oriented shops. Old Town, FC. 5-8pm. 970-484-6500 or www.DowntownFortCollins.com.

Snap Circuits Tweens, please join us to learn about circuits in a fun and simple way!

Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor.

3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Great Ideas Discussion Group Join this group for a stimulating and fun discussion of the great philosophical questions. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 2-3:30pm. 970-9622665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

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Biker Night Dress like a biker-motorcycle or pedal.

Don’t forget your helmet! Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. 7:15-8:45pm. www.greeleyicehaus.com.

NaNoWriMo Write-In Come write with others! Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Saturday, November 16 Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music When the new music teacher’s instruments go missing, Elmo and more come to the rescue and discover new instruments.

Budweiser Event Center, 5290 Arena Circle, LV. 10:30am & 2:30pm. 970-619-4100 or www.budweisereventcenter.com.

My Private Italy Join filmmaker Steven McCurdy as he guides you through his personal journey through some of the most beautiful and intriguing places in northern Italy.

Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 2pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

Answer Cache: Databases for Adults Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am-Noon. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Monday, November 18 Money Matters: Scrooge, Grinch or Magi Learn tips and tools you can use this holiday season to avoid financial and emotional hangovers. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Seven Falls Indian Dancers Join us in celebrating Native American History Month with the Seven Falls Indian Dancers, a family dance troupe featuring four generations of dancers. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-3pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

GPO Connoisseur Concert # 3 Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Moon Over My Open Space Look out for nighttime critters and learn about owls. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, W. of Loveland off Hwy 34, LV. 5pm.

970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org/ naturalresources.

Sunday, November 17 Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music When the new music teacher’s instruments go missing, Elmo and more come to the rescue and discover new instruments.

Budweiser Event Center, 5290 Arena Circle, LV. 1pm & 4:30pm. 970-6194100 or www.budweisereventcenter.com.

Game Day @ Your Library Play a board or card game from our collection or bring a favorite from home.

Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

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Native American Heritage Day Crafts, music and displays will honor the first residents at centers throughout the library. Lincoln Park Library, High Plains Library District, 919 7th St., GR. 4pm.

970-506-8622 or www.mylibrary.us.

Read & Seed: Thanksgiving Decorations Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens. iLearn Technology: Gmail 201 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 5:30pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Caution: Novelists at Work Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Tuesday, November 19 Read & Seed: Thanksgiving Decorations Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Mommy and Me Yoga Cool Beans Playhouse, 4019 S. Mason St., #5, FC. 9-10am. 970-266-1135 or www. coolbeansplayhouse.com.

Busqueda de Trabajo En estas clases aprenderá diferentes herramientas para buscar trabajo de manera eficiente por medio del Internet, se ofrecerán guías que explican cómo escribir un Currículum (résumé), así como darle seguimiento a una aplicación. Estas clases son en español. The Family Center, 309 Hickory St., FC. Noon-2pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Facebook Learn about social media through Facebook. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Kindles @ Your Library Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Breast-Feeding Classes Mothers will receive information on positioning and latch-on, pumping, storage and more. McKee Medical Center, 2000 Boise Ave., LV. 6:30-9pm. 970-6694640 or www.BannerHealth.com.

Kids Create: Light Sword If you love to explore how things work, this is for you! Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3:30-4:30pm. 970686-5603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Creative Writing for Teens Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor.

3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Chess Club Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Homework Help Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

• Individual instruction and small group activities • After school and Saturday lessons available • Safe, trained horses and ponies Indoor and outdoo arenas • Equine-assisted psychotherapy with Dr. Margot Nacey (for children and teens • NEW! Ponies for Preschoolers! with instructor Dr. Margot Nacey.

Dr. Margot Nacey, Owner/Director Licensed Clinical Psychologist #1716 Molly Brame, Instructor 3833 W. County Road 8 Berthoud, Colorado 80513

gargotfarms.com

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iLearn Technology: Computer Basics 101 (Windows 7) This class is for true beginners. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30am. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

12 Money Mistakes You Can’t Afford to Make Presented by Sara Gilbert and GreenPath Debt Solutions. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 6:30am. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Thursday, November 21 Rodney Carrington See this a multitalented comedian, actor and writer who has recorded eight major record label comedy albums, selling over three million copies. Budweiser Event Center, 5290 Arena Circle, LV. 7:30pm. 970-619-4100 or www. budweisereventcenter.com.

Immigration Classes The Family Center, 309 Hickory St., FC. 5:30-7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Wednesday, November 20 Brooklyn Castle The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us.

Evernote: A Tool for Remembering Everything, Even Genealogy Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6:30-8:45pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Nature Notes Club Interact with nature while expressing your artistic side with journaling, photography and painting. Time and Location TBA. 970-619-4489 or www. larimer.org/naturalresources.

iLearn Technology: Microsoft Word & Excel 301 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 12:30pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Money Matters: Scrooge, Grinch or Magi Learn tips and tools you can use this holiday season to avoid financial and emotional hangovers. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Wednesdays Wild World of Art Class: Printmaking Andy Warhol will serve as your inspiration. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 3:30-4:30pm.

970-962-2410 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Pet Seniorhood Class: Understanding Your Aging Pet Learn how to help your pet age gracefully and empower your family to provide much of the care in your own home.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 6:30-6:30pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Lego Club Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor.

3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

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Genealogy Help @ Your Library Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 1pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Friday, November 22 Paula Poundstone The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us.

Nooks @ Your Library In this class we will show you how to download library eBooks to your Nook from home anytime. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 10:30am-Noon. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org. iLearn Technology: Computer Basics 201 (Windows 7) Next Steps Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30am. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Saturday, November 23 Tellabration: A Storytelling Celebration Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-3pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Michael Martin Murphey’s Cowboy Christmas Ball This Western Music Hall of Fame inductee is one of the world’s most respected singer-songwritters in pop and country western music. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm.

970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Arthur Christmas The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 1pm & 5pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us. iLearn Technology: Microsoft Word 101 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30am. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Is Tatting a Lost Art? Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 10am-Noon. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Sunday, November 24 Mad Dash to the Finish Write-In 50k or Bust! With only a week left, you may need some extra motivation in your NaNoWriMo journey. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

The Addams Family Musical This smash-hit musical comedy brings the darkly delirious world of the Addams Family to spooky and spectacular life.

Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 2pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

Monday, November 25 MOMIX This performance defies categorization as easily as its dancers defy gravity.

Mesmerizing, magical and imaginative, MOMIX spellbinds audiences across the globe. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-2216730 or www.LCTIX.com.

School Out Science Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 3pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Chess Club Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

iLearn Technology: Microsoft Excel 101 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 5:30pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Homework Help Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Tuesday, November 26 Celtic Thunder Mythology The perfect blend of entertainment, ideology and Gaelic spirituality, providing a modern twist on the old Celtic storytelling tradition. Budweiser Event Center, 5290 Arena Circle, LV. 7:30pm. 970-619-4100 or www. budweisereventcenter.com.

Mommy and Me Yoga Cool Beans Playhouse, 4019 S. Mason St., #5, FC. 9-10am. 970-266-1135 or www. coolbeansplayhouse.com.

Caution: Novelists at Work Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org. iLearn Technology: Microsoft Word 201 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30am. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Wednesday, November 27 iLearn Technology: Microsoft Excel 201 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 9:30am. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Saturday, November 30 Leahy Family Christmas Leahy is the Canadian powerhouse of eight musical brothers and sisters who mystify audiences whenever they play.

The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com.

Elvis Through the Years George Gray and his 16-member Elvis Experience Band, along with gospet singers and showgirl dancers, take it to a while new level! Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm.

970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

The Nutcracker 2013 The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 2pm & 7pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us.

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time out

Thanksgiving with Miss Piggy

How a holiday dinner out changed the way I think about family R ICHA R D K E L L E R

T

hanksgiving was never a big deal for my family. Instead of a lavish dinner with all the trimmings laid out on a beautifully decorated table, my parents would serve dry turkey and a jellied roll of cranberry sauce that we would hastily devour so my father could watch the 4pm football game. Eventually, my parents gave up the illusion of cooking and went out for dinner on Thanksgiving.

One year, while home from college, I decided to join them for a meal at a local restaurant holding a holiday buffet.

Situated in one of its large party rooms, tables laden with artery-clogging and sleep-inducing food lined the walls.

Inching my way past the various delicacies, I came upon a table that featured ham, turkey, and an entire roast pig, complete with an apple in its mouth.

Stunned momentarily by something I had only seen on Tom and Jerry and Looney Tunes cartoons, I was there when a little girl of around 7 or 8 came up and asked the server about the pig.

“It’s Miss Piggy,” he said without missing a beat. “She hasn’t been very good this year.”

I never saw this little girl again, but I’m pretty sure she still gets the sweats every time she watches The Muppets.

This moment in time is stuck in my mind until the day I die, and not because it was both humorous and incredibly rude at the same time. From the moment the server uttered those words, and probably sealed his fate as an ex-employee of that dining establishment, I realized a restaurant is not the best place to celebrate Thanksgiving or any other major holiday for that matter.

Our lives are incredibly busy these days with schedules that involve work, school, and numerous extra-curricular activities. You may think you spend a lot of time with 48

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your family, but most of it is done through a rear-view mirror while you ship everyone from one event to another. By the time you turn around, the kids are saying good-bye as they leave on their honeymoons, and you scratch your head wondering how you missed all of that time in-between.

Holidays like Thanksgiving are meant for you to stop, take a breath, and reintroduce yourself to your spouse

coma as soon as they buckle their seatbelts for the ride home.

The moral to this tale, hidden deep under references of Muppets and parade balloons, is Thanksgiving should be spent thanking those in your family for what they’ve given to you over the last year. Regardless if you have a traditional holiday meal or chow down on turkey subs while you watch your favorite football team lose again, spending those

and children. It may just involve sitting around the television and taking bets to see which balloon escapes its handlers during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, but at least you’re connecting with everyone in a quiet, enclosed area. This can’t be done at a restaurant, particularly one with a buffet. Between the jostle for a parking space, a table, and a spot in the buffet line, many of these meals can turn out to be more hassle and less bonding time. Plus, everyone slips into a turkey-induced

hours with your family and away from the other daily worries can recharge your batteries and allow you to make some critical connections with people you casually say hello to in the kitchen on the way out the door.

In the end, you should spend this day laughing, eating well, and watching The Muppets on DVD. By the time the sun sets and the last piece of pumpkin pie is eaten, you’ll be ready to take on the craziness of the world … just in time for the Christmas season to kick in.

Follow us on: Facebook | Our Blog | Twitter | Ravelry

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

Shop hours are Tuesday 10 am to 8 pm , Wednesday- Saturday 10 am to 5 pm .

We are closed Sunday and Monday.

1408 WEST MOUNTAIN AVENUE FORT COLLINS, CO 80521 • 970.407.1451

mysisterknits.com

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

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

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

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63 970.330.0

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Specials for Fall Enrollment, Call Now!

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