Summer in Berthoud 2023

We Call BerthoudHome

Berthoud is a growing community with a bright future that also celebrates the deep roots of its rich history. The town provides a wonderful quality of life with a wide variety of experiences enjoyed by past and present generations. Summertime in Berthoud is a special time filled with fun events.

This magazine is a gift to you, whether you’ve always been here, are new to the area, or just passing through, it offers a wealth of information about enjoying summer to the fullest in our hometown, northern Colorado and Colorado’s stunning outdoors.

Read on and enjoy the Garden Spot of Colorado ... where good things grow!

Covering all the angles in the Garden Spot

Summer in Berthoud 2023© is published in Berthoud, Colo., by the Berthoud Weekly Surveyor. The publishers reserve the right to edit, classify or reject any advertising or news copy. Liability for any newspaper error in an advertisement shall not exceed the cost of space occupied by error. The publishers assume no liability for any advertising which is not published for any cause. The publishers assume absolutely no obligation or responsibility for subject matter in copy placed by its advertisers or their agents. It is also understood that the advertiser and the agency placing such advertising jointly and severally agree to indemnify Berthoud Weekly Surveyor, LLC against all expense, loss or damage sustained by reason of printing such copy. Subscription rates are $37 per year to residents of the 80513 zip code and $47 per year to zip codes other than 80513 and $37 for online.

BERTHOUD WEEKLY SURVEYOR

Fundraiser for Berthoud Adaptive Park Project

By Will Cornelius The Surveyor

Some kids set up lemonade stands to raise money for a big-ticket item they have their eyes on — like a new bicycle. Scraping and saving, kids from across the country embrace their entrepreneurial spirit each summer by setting up their nano-businesses on suburban street corners.

But one Berthoud family is using the traditional lemonade stand to fuel an even bigger dream.

Colorado native and Berthoud resident, Lauren Bowling and her husband Richard have three young sons who love to go to the park or playground and play. The only problem is that one of their sons, Miles, has cerebral palsy and is wheelchair-bound.

“I think that inclusivity is taught — day one — you know, why not start at play age?” Bowling states. Many parks or playgrounds have uneven surfaces like wood chips or sand.

“When he goes in his wheelchair, that’s not very accessible,” she explains. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law passed in 1990 that prohibits discrimination based on disability. But just because a park is ADA-compliant does not mean it is Miles Bowling-compliant.

Shortly after the family moved from Mead to Berthoud in 2020, Lauren Bowling began contacting local developers about future park plans. She wanted to make sure that there would be a park for Miles to use. Farmstead, the development where the Bowling family moved to, was receptive to their requests.

Initially, Bowling suggested a five-point harness swing that works with wheelchairs to one of the developers. “Then a few days later, he called me back and he said, ‘Oh, that swing is $9,000.’ And I said — yeah — ADA equipment is really expensive.” Will Edwards, one of the developers at the time, was more than happy to help make the swing a reality and said if they could raise half the money the developers would match the rest.

“I got together with a couple of neighbors and the idea for a lemonade stand started. And we had our first lemonade stand in July of 2021, in our front yard in our driveway,” Bowling said. That little lemonade stand raised $11,000.

Bowling was blown away by the success. “I think I have to start a nonprofit. I don’t think that I can just raise $11,000,” she remembered thinking at the time. From there the idea expanded from just one swing set to an entire adaptive park — or the Berthoud Adaptive Park Project. The project has a goal of raising $1 million to build an adaptive park in the Farmstead development for all children with disabilities. So far fundraising is halfway there, with over $503,000 donated. Bowling credits Edwards for helping make the vision a reality, he also donated $100,000 to the project.

Large donations have played a big part, but equally important is the community support according to Bowling. “Almost everything has just been organic, you know, community-driven.” She is hopeful that the park will begin construction by spring 2024. “We have applied for several grants and we’re waiting to hear back,” she explained.

Going back to where they started, the Bowling family and friends will host the third annual lemonade stand fundraiser on June 10 and 11 at the corner of State Highway 56 and Dorothy Drive. In addition to adorable children selling lemonade, there will also be baked goods. More information about the Berthoud Adaptive Park Project and options to donate can be found at https:// candaid.salsalabs.org/berthoudadaptiveparkproject/index. html.

Courtesy photo

A digital mockup of the Berthoud Adaptive Park Project.

Four fun summer spots to take the kids

With so many summer days coming and kids home for the summer, sometimes it can be hard to find something to do. Thankfully, not too far away from Berthoud, you have four wonderful places for the kids to get out their energy. As a parent, you can participate and enjoy feeling like a kid again or just sit back and relax while you catch your breath.

Let’s start with Get Air Trampoline Park in Longmont. The indoor entertainment venue, located at 2251 Ken Pratt Blvd., has been rated the best Trampoline Park in Longmont. If your kids have too much energy then this is the perfect place for them with wall-to-wall trampolines to bounce around on. Jump, run, or do flips — it’s all up to you.

I fell several times and I feel like I can do my own stunts now. Get Air Trampoline Park also has a ninja obstacle course, trampoline dodgeball and a large foam pit to jump in. But watch out, because getting out of the foam pit is even more fun than jumping in. I found myself needing assistance when trying to get out of the hole as I just kept sinking back into the foam pit. But it was all in the name of fun, I couldn’t stop laughing at my predicament.

North of there, you have Loveland Laser Tag at 401 N. Denver Ave., where there is fun for all ages. Laser tag is one of my favorite things to do. There is no shortage of room either, Loveland Laser Tag stretches across three floors and is over 5,700 square feet with ramps and so many places to hide while tagging as many people as possible. At the end of each round, you can see statistics on hits and shots against other players. Afterward, you can also enjoy, bumper cars, a rope course, an arcade, a four-dimensional ‘X-ride’ simulator and even a café.

Next is another trampoline park called Fly High Adventure Park at 218 Smokey St. in Fort Collins. The park accommodates jumpers of all skill levels from beginner to expert, featuring a launch pad to jump into a foam pit, basketballs for dunking, dodge ball and wall-to-wall trampolines to run and jump onto padded platforms. They also have a play area for the little ones with a ball pit, a climbing area and a slide. It is a great place to run and be a kid — but as an adult, I had some epic wipeouts, so you might want to take some Tylenol before you go!

Last but not least you have Urban Air and Adventure Park in Fort Collins located at 4250 Corbett Dr. This place has a virtual reality (VR) game that is so cool. You put on VR goggles and then depending on the game you might be putting out a fire or catching ants from ruining your picnic, or even catching alien spaceships. Playing it is a blast, but watching other people fumble around is also a ton of fun.

The venue also includes go-karts and a rope course hanging from the ceiling. Be warned of the rope course however, you can’t just turn around if you decide not to continue, you must be rescued, which can be embarrassing — that I would know! But if you like climbing ropes and aren’t afraid of heights then you will love the sky ride zip lines over the indoor park. This park is so much fun with all the trampolines to run and jump off to see who can get the highest or do the best flip. There is also a restaurant on-site for when you need to restock your energy. There is so much to do with your kids or grandkids in the Northern Colorado area, but these four places are guaranteed fun adventures. Next time you need an idea I recommend you check these spots out. Also don’t forget to check out their websites for special deals. I know I enjoyed each one with my grandkids and walked out with great memories.

Photo by Diane Wells

The climbing wall at Urban Air in Fort Collins.

Surveyor Columnist

Diane Wells

Mark your calendars!

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Summer in Berthoud 2023

T-Shirt Design – Adults and ages 10+ Saturday, June 17, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Zentangle

Ages 11-14: Monday, June 19, 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Adults and ages 15+: Monday, June 12, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Summer Camps

Art Around the World – Ages 5-9

Session 1: June 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 9 to 10:30 a.m. Session 2:

June 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Street Art with a Twist – Ages 10-14

June 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 1 to 3 p.m.

Color Explosion – Ages 5-9

Session 1: July 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 9 to 10:30 a.m. Session 2:

July 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

CommUNITY Art – Ages 10-14

July 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 1 to 3 p.m.

Events

Wildfire Streetfest

Saturday, Sept. 16, 4 to 9 p.m. - Free

Live music, dance performances, food trucks, kids’ crafts, face painting, silent auction and more.

If you have any questions about our organization or are interested in helping in our mission through volunteering or a donor contribution, we can be reached at:

Wildfire Community Arts Center 425 Massachusetts Ave., Berthoud, CO 80513, 970-532-5497, admin@wildfirearts.org, www.wildfirearts.org/.

The Berthoud Historical Society (BHS) preserves, interprets and presents the history of the town of Berthoud and the Little Thompson Valley. Its events and activities are community-building, educational and entertaining. Be sure to invite your friends to enjoy one or many of the opportunities BHS is offering this summer.

Berthoud Day Open House – June 3: The Little Thompson Valley Pioneer Museum (224 Mountain Ave.) will be open to the general public from 12 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission is free for the day. Every Berthoud resident should know a little bit about the history of this busy little town. Complimentary refreshments will be available at the museum’s Pioneer Courtyard.

Stargazing with the Historic Bunyan Telescope –Pioneer Courtyard — First Friday of the month (June 2, July 7, Aug. 4 and Sept. 1) at dusk. BHS volunteer Ted Cline will place a sign out on the sidewalk in front of museum to announce if the observatory is open to the public.

Free Summer Concert Series at the Pioneer Courtyard

The summer concerts held at the Little Thompson Valley Pioneer Museum’s Pioneer Courtyard bring together friends and neighbors for a relaxing Wednesday evening with musical enjoyment for everyone. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and music begins at 6:30 p.m. Food and drink are available for purchase.

June 21 – Trinity Seely: “Horses and music just kinda go together; feel, timing, and a whole lot of balance.” Through her music, Trinity hopes to promote and perpetuate the Western lifestyle.

July 5 – Jon Chandler: Popular country-western singer of homespun, original narrative songs that remain in your heart long after the sun goes down.

July 19 – Bella Speelman: A young adventurer who likes trees, old boots, glass jars and string, just so happens to be a thumb-picking guitar champion.

Aug 3 – Caitlyn Traussig: As a fourth-generation rancher in Colorado, Caitlyn’s songs reflect Colorado’s rugged and beautiful landscapes, cowboying in the rough high country and working on the family ranch.

Melodrama — Run to the Roundhouse Nellie – He can’t Corner You There! Friday and Saturday, July 21 and 22, 6 p.m. at the Pioneer Courtyard (224 Mountain Ave.)

Moon Theater will perform a fun melodrama – complete with villains, heroes and a damsel in distress. Free family fun.

Donations gratefully accepted. Light refreshments.

*Special fundraiser concert featuring the Green Bean Boys – Saturday, July 29*

Enjoy an evening of great fun and musicianship at the Pioneer Courtyard (224 Mountain Ave.). This is a ticketed event, $25 per person and seating is limited. All proceeds go to support the mission, operation and program of the Berthoud Historical Society. Food and drink are available for purchase.

Visit www.berthoudhistoricalsociety.org for more information or call 970-532-2147.

June 8 – Sept. 21 - The Fickel Farmer’s Market

The mission of Berthoud’s Fickel Farmer’s Market is to provide a space for our vibrant community of growers, producers, and makers by supporting, educating and expanding sustainable agriculture. By facilitating this community resource, we strive to strengthen relationships between local food production and food consumers by educating, nourishing and making local food accessible for all of our community. Join us every Thursday evening for some shopping and fun through the summer months.

Thursdays, June 8 – Sept. 21, Fickel Park, 4 – 7 p.m.

June 9 and 10 – Scorchfest sponsored by the Berthoud Youth Advisory Commission

Kick off summer with ScorchFest. June 9 and 10 at the Berthoud Recreation Center 4-9 p.m. $10 Fun Zone and $1 Ticket Zone with carnival games, interactive games and even a mechanical bull. Prizes, DJ, food trucks and family fun are presented by the Berthoud Youth Advisory Commission.

June 9 and 10, 4 – 9 p.m. each day, Cost: $10 Fun Zone, $1 Ticket Zone, Berthoud Recreation Center

June 10 – Family Campout at Scorchfest

The Berthoud Recreation Center will offer its second annual family campout, where campers will spend a night under the stars at the Berthoud Recreation Center. Campers will bring their own camping gear, which can include grills. Berthoud Recreation staff will provide fire pits and smores. Don’t forget your flashlight so you can participate in the nighttime games. Please note that Scorchfest admission is not included in the campout cost. June 10, Setup can begin at 3 p.m. Cost: $55 per space, Berthoud Recreation Center, South Athletic Field

July 3 – Berthoud’s Fireworks Festival at Waggener Farm Park (Free)

The Town of Berthoud invites everyone to join us on July 3 at Waggener Farm Park for an evening of entertainment and fireworks to celebrate the strength and resiliency of our community and our country. The fireworks display will take place at Waggener Farm Park, where eventgoers will have the best seats in the town to view the show. Brought to you by the Town of Berthoud, admission is free. The festivities start at 4 p.m. with inflatable slides, live music, face painting, lawn games and more. July 3, Entertainment 4-9 p.m., Fireworks at dusk, Waggener Farm Park by the Berthoud Recreation Center Cost: Free (Food and beverages will be available for purchase)

July 15 – Grand Opening of the Berthoud Bike Park

The Town of Berthoud is excited to announce the official grand opening of the Berthoud Bike Park.

July 15, 9 a.m., Ribbon cutting, 1223 Meadowlark Dr. Cost: Free, Visit Berthoud.org for more information on this event.

Sept. 23 – Father-Daughter Dance

The Father-Daughter Dance is for dads and father figures to spend a special evening with their daughter(s). All father figures are welcome, including stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, foster fathers and other significant male role models. At the event, we will have a photo booth, decorations, a DJ and appetizers. Sept. 23, 6 – 8 p.m., Berthoud Recreation Center Gym, Cost: Couple (Father & Daughter) $35, Additional Daughter $10

Look up! Summer skies await your gaze

By Terry Georgia The Surveyor

One of the most enduring memories of my early childhood is of the night my father awakened my brother and me at 3 a.m. and ushered us outside to witness a spectacular meteor shower. Lying in the cool grass, we squealed with delight as we counted dozens of “stars” streaking across the sky. It was magical.

As Coloradans, we are fortunate to live in an area where the thinner atmosphere and ample darksky access make for some of the better stargazing opportunities in the country. As populated areas expand, light pollution reduces the number of visible stars, yet there are still many places dark enough to see amazing sights.

Berthoud has a dark sky ordinance in place that requires builders to use lighting meant to curb light pollution as much as possible, but to really see the night sky in all its glory, head out to one of Colorado’s many certified dark-sky parks or communities.

Taking in the awe-inspiring expanse of the universe and spotting constellations, large planets and satellites is always an option with no special equipment necessary. A clear night and a blanket on the ground are all you need. Be sure to turn off any nearby lanterns or other lights for the full effect. In dark-sky sites, the Milky Way will be visible to the naked eye. And of course, meteor showers are tailor-made for naked-eye viewing. Recent solar activity could even bring the Northern Lights to Colorado skies this summer.

A star map will help locate elusive constellations and planets, and night-sky phone apps can even help spot orbiting satellites and the International Space Station.

With a decent telescope, you’ll see even more detail, such as craters on the moon, the rings of Saturn, some of the moons of Jupiter and nearby galaxies. If you don’t have access to a telescope, find a star party. Local astronomy clubs often host these events in dark-sky sites. Professional and amateur astronomers bring out their telescopes and focus on a variety of deep-space objects. They generously allow anyone to take a look at whatever wonder has captured their interest. Most are willing to share their extensive knowledge and answer questions far into the night.

To help navigate in the dark, bring a flashlight with a red filter. White light causes your pupils to contract, making it difficult to see in the dark. It takes several minutes for your pupils to readjust and open up again for optimum star viewing. The red filter allows you to see where you’re going without compromising everyone’s ability to see.

Check with the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society for information about star parties in our area: nocoastro.org/.

If you’re not the outdoors type and want to stay closer to home, here’s some good news: Berthoud is home to TWO great observatories, where local astronomers will guide you through the heavens via powerful telescopes. The Bunyan Observatory, located on the grounds of the Little Thompson Valley Pioneer Museum (224 Mountain Ave.) features the original Brashear six-inch telescope used by prominent Berthoud resident, John Bunyan when he built a backyard observatory in 1933. The observatory is open to the public on the first Friday evening of each month.

The second observatory is located on the grounds of Berthoud High School at 850 Spartan Ave., near the school’s track. With a wide array of powerful telescopes, volunteers will help you discover many wonders of the universe not visible to the naked eye. In addition, the observatory’s Star Wall shows the features

of the entire night sky. Reservations are required with two weeks’ notice to access the observatory. It is open five days a week nearly year-round. The observatory is closed each July for maintenance. To schedule a visit or find public presentation dates, go to: www.starkids.org.

The night sky is a free show every clear night and it’s a show that’s hard to beat. With a little practice, you’ll be able to distinguish the redness of Mars from the blue, white and yellow tints of surrounding stars. You’ll be following the stars in the handle of the Big Dipper to “arc to Arturus and speed on to Spica.” And you’ll definitely want to attend more star parties.

Meteor showers are a highlight for most skywatchers. While random “shooting stars” are possible any time of year, a meteor shower occurs when a comet passes near Earth’s orbit. Tiny particles of debris from the comet’s tail pass into Earth’s atmosphere, to become dazzling showstoppers blazing across the heavens. Plan to head to the backyard or a darksky site to see these sparkling shows this summer and fall.

Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower July 12 - Aug. 23

Peak night July 28-29 - up to 20 meteors per hour

Perseids Meteor Shower July 17- Aug. 24

Peak night Aug. 12-13 - up to 60 meteors per hour

Draconids Meteor Shower Oct. 6-10

Peak night Oct. 7 - up to 10 meteors per hour

Photo from news.cgtn.com

Perseid meteor shower creates dazzling night sky.

Ride them all for a grand summer adventure

By David Tisue The Surveyor

Colorado is one of the best states in the country for scenic train rides. However, figuring out a trip to ride some of our state’s beautiful railways can take research and planning. Nevertheless, if you have a train enthusiast in your family or just like to take in some beautiful sights, these trips can be a lot of fun. The scenic railways are scattered across our great state and many could be combined with other fantastic things to do in each area. Most railways operate in the summer months and many offer rides year-round.

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

With new trains, the Pikes Peak Cog is now back and taking riders to the top of one of the most famous mountains in Colorado. The Cog Railway has been taking trips up this mountain since 1891, and it is still a beautiful steep ride. A cog railway has a toothed third rail in the center of the track to help it climb steep inclines. The nine-mile trip takes three and a half hours round trip. Be warned, sometimes, if the weather is terrible, they only go halfway up the mountain, but it is still an incredible ride. If you reserve online before you go, you will save a few bucks; rates start at $58.50 for adults and kids under 13 for $48.50, with reserved seating for a few dollars more. Or you can reserve the front of the train car next to the engineer for $81 and $71 for kids. There are also walk-up tickets, if available, starting at $61.

515 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829

(719) 685-5401

cograilway.com

Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad

Since 1967 this railroad has been giving rides along its four-mile round-trip narrow gauge tracks. The 45-minute ride starts in the town of Cripple Creek, goes past many historic mines and old buildings along a reconstructed trestle and visits the historic Anaconda. Cripple Creek is in the mountains above Colorado Springs, which makes it possible to ride the Pikes Peak Railway on the same trip. Tickets are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors and $14 for children 3-12. There is a $1 off coupon on their website.

520 E Carr Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813

(719) 689-2640

cripplecreekrailroad.com

Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad

This steam train is located in the middle of the southern border of Colorado. Owned by both Colorado and New Mexico since 1970, the train crosses state borders 11 times in its 64-mile route, zigzagging along canyon walls, through two tunnels and steaming over a 137-foot trestle. You can catch this six-hour trip either in Antonio, Colo., or Chama, NM. It is an incredible ride through the highest steam railway in North America. You can do the whole round trip or half trip to Osier Station from either direction. Tickets start at $135 for adults and $80 for children 6-12, with more expensive rides in a deluxe car with drinks and snacks starting at $195 and a fancy parlor car starting at $230. Interestingly, the railway is in one direction and then returns you on a onehour bus ride or vice versa, taking the bus first. Lunch at Osier Station is included with most tickets.

500 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520 or 5234 B US Hwy 285, Antonito, CO 81120

(888) 286.2737

cumbrestoltec.com

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

This railway is on the bucket list for almost any train enthusiast worldwide. It is famous for its ride from Durango to Silverton along some of the most beautiful canyons in the Rockies. The experience of riding on a national treasure is not to be missed and is worth a trip to Durango. The three-and-a-half-hour trip one way can RAILROAD continued on page 11

Photo from cumbreatoltec.com

be combined into a round trip or one way with a bus back. There is also a five-and-a-quarter-hour trip to a spot halfway up the route with an hour stop that is available. You can either ride behind a steam locomotive or a diesel engine. Tickets start at $105 for adults and $69 for

adults for coach and go up from there to as high as $279 for the Presidential Class for the steam engine and start at $97 for adults for the diesel engine. They even offer drop-off points for backpackers in mid-summer.

479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301 (970) 247-2733

durangotrain.com

Rocky Mountaineer

Using the main rails along the Glenwood Canyon, this two-day train experience includes a night in a hotel in Glenwood Springs and five-star dining. It has cars that let you see the beauty of the Rockies from the comfort of cushy leather chairs while sipping fine wine and cocktails. This is the same company that runs the famous train through the Canadian Rockies and is luxury at its best. Tickets start at $1,456 per person.

Leadville Railroad

This two-and-a-half-hour round trip with spectacular views of two of Colorado’s highest peaks is a beautiful way to see the high country. Located in Leadville, the railway runs diesel trains all summer. Tickets are $54 for adults and children are $32. There is a special lounge car with tables for groups that run from $155 to $310 per table. They run winter snow rides as well.

326 E. 7th Street, Leadville, CO 80461 (719) 486-3936

leadvillerailroad.com

Royal Gorge Route Railroad

Built in 1879, this famous route was used to carry supplies to the miners and communities above the royal gorge. Now you can ride in style. The train winds its way through a very narrow gorge past old mining equipment and abandoned mines. The railway offers multiple rides daily, including lunch and dinner rides and a murder mystery train. Tickets start at $89 for adults and $84 for kids 2-12, and they can go up to $295 for a dinner trip in their Vista Lounge car.

401 Water St., Canon City, CO 81212 (719)275-2645

royalgorgeroute.com

Georgetown Loop Railroad

At just 45 miles west of Denver, this is the closest scenic railway to Berthoud. Just off I-70, this fantastic railway offers views of the mountains and scenery. This one-hour and fifteen-minute round trip is also one of the shorter train trips here in Colorado, making it an easy day trip from Berthoud. In addition, you can combine the train ride with a mine tour for extra fun. Tickets start at $33 for adults and $27 for children 3-15. They also offer unique train rides, including Father’s Day, Pumpkin trains and fall color trips.

646 Loop Drive, Georgetown, CO 80444 (888) 456-6777

georgetownlooprr.com

Photo from durangotrain.com

Coors Field is all about new food this summer

By David Tisue The Surveyor

The next time you go to a baseball game at Coors Field, check out all the new food offerings. No longer do baseball stadiums across the country just offer peanuts and hot dogs. Now every stadium is serving up some gourmet fare. Ballparks like New York’s Yankee Stadium’s famous 99 Burger, which is two 4-oz wagyu beef patties, and they only make 99 of them game and LA Dodger’s Stadium’s Taco Tuesdays, where every food stand has a different taco are changing up the food game. Coors Field is no exception; they offer some new delectable choices this year. Here are what is new at the ballpark for food:

Green Chili Cheese Fries: Shoestring potato fries, green pork chili, shredded cheddar jack cheese and breaded cheese curds.

BBQ Chicken and Mac Sandwich: Pulled chicken, BBQ sauce, white cheddar mac and cheese.

Doritos Walking Tacos: Doritos, Green chili queso, jalapeños, pico de gallo, carnitas or chichen tinga.

Stuffed Tater Kegs: Cheese stuffed tater tots with boom boom sauce. Or the buffalo chicken stuffed tater tots with ranch.

Peach Chimmis: Tortilla, whipped cream cheese, sliced peaches, cinnamon sugar mix, caramel syrup and topped with whipped cream.

Beef Empanadas: Steak filled with chimichurri aioli.

Berry Waffle Cone: An assortment of fruit and ricotta cannoli filling.

Cauliflower and Waffles served with chiliinfused maple syrup and Sriracha aioli.

For those of you who want a different beverage than the usual beer, a new IPA and tasty shake are also being served that sound delicious:

Sandlot Summer Session: A session IPA brewed with Citra and Centennial hops. A beer with a citrus hop flavor and a bit of pine.

Smores Shake: A chocolate ice cream milkshake with marshmallow cream topping, graham crackers and Hershey’s chocolate.

I think I want to go to the ballpark just for the food. Though I am partial to an old-fashioned hot dog, I do love a good empanada!

Summer events in NoCo

Greeley

Greeley Stampede, June 22 – July 4 The Greeley Stampede summer event is a 10+ day festival held at Island Grove Regional Park in Greeley, CO leading up to the 4th of July each year including a concert series, a PRCA rodeo series, an American Bullfighting event, a Demolition Derby, large carnival, food, vendors, and children’s activities. Greeleystampede.org

Greeley Friday Fest – Downtown Greeley throws the best TGIF get-togethers every Friday until Sept. 15. The events feature Go Cups, allowing you to drink on 9th Street, while you enjoy free concerts from some of the best bands in the region.

Loveland

One Sweet Summer Event Series

The One Sweet Summer series is a beefed-up slate of shows and other fun events meant to attract both residents and tourists of all ages. These events are held at The Foundry in downtown Loveland. Check out the events at https://www.visitlovelandco.org/?s=Sweet+summer

Loveland Summer Concert Series at Foote Lagoon Amphitheater is a series of July concerts that feature swing, Irish, Latin and funk music on Thursday nights starting on July 6. https://www.visitlovelandco. org/event/loveland-summer-concert-series-at-footelagoon/2021-08-19/

Johnstown

Johnstown Hot Dog Days of Summer features three nights of live music and grilled hot dogs. 4:30- 7 p.m., June 27, July 18 and Aug. 15 in Thompson River Ranch Park.

Mishawaka

The arena affectionately known as “The Mish” offers its unique and beautiful setting by the roaring Poudre River for another summer concert series with a show every Saturday night. Located on Colo. 14. Themishawaka.com

Windsor

The Windsor Summer Concert Series featuring familyfriendly concerts, Thursday evenings, June-August at Boardwalk Park in downtown Windsor. Free admission.

$45 in the 80513 zip code, $55 elsewhere or read the Surveyor online $45, print/online $55.

Photo from Americastestkitchen.com

Cowboy up Rocky Mountain style

The smell of sweet hay and horse sweat conjures up childhood memories for many of us. I never owned my own horse, but I got to ride my friends’ horses and ponies on a regular basis.

A week-long stay at a dude ranch isn’t required if you’d like to ride horses in Northern Colorado. In fact, there are three horseback riding excursions less than an hour from Berthoud. I have ridden at all of these locations and the scenery is quite different.

Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch

Open for riding year-round, Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch is a gem. Located just west of Loveland, one feels hundreds of miles from civilization when on this ranch property. A guest includes everyone from those doing a week-long stay, wedding attendees, wagon riders, and those who want an afternoon outing on horseback.

The last time I rode there, our wrangler was Dustin. Super informative, he even provided one of those step stools to mount the horse (for those of us who are vertically challenged, aka short).

With 3,200 acres on the ranch, I’ve taken multiple rides here and we’ve never gone the same way. The terrain is gentle, although a mountain climb is available for experienced riders. orses amble through ast meado s filled ith ild o ers pass through cottonwoods, and even cross a stream that sometimes develops depending on the weather.

Sylvandale.com/riding-adventures has a list of available rides and visitors can book an outing on the website.

Terry Bison Ranch Resort

Fifty-seven minutes north of Berthoud, and barely across the Colo./Wyo. state line, lies Terry Bison Ranch Resort. This quirky spot is home to everything from a world-famous herd of bison to camels that like to run beside the bison train. That’s right, a train has been built on the property and takes visitors to the bison herd. ony rides are a ailable as is fishing in the ranch’s pond. Even weddings occur here during the summer.

In addition to horseback riding over the rolling hills of Southern Wyoming, there is a breakfast cafe that’s very good and a steakhouse on the property. Visitors can make a day of it at Terry Bison Ranch.

Visit terrybisonranch.com for all the Wild West details or call 307-634-4171.

YMCA of the Rockies - Jackson Stables

Whether or not you’re staying at the YMCA of the Rockies, you can ride with Jackson Stables on the YMCA property. There are also pony rides available for the little ones and hayrides. Jackson Stables was established in 1998, although there has been a livery at the YMCA since 1911.

Trails wind through the thousands of fragrant pine trees that dot the Rocky Mountain National Park and the YMCA property. This is an authentic Colorado mountain forest experience. A ride with Jackson Stables can be from one hour to a day long. The National Park Service and Department of Interior authorize the stables to serve the public in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Go to jacksonstables.com for more information on rides and booking.

All three of these excursions are good for families looking for ways to entertain the children, date days for couples or an outing for visiting friends and family who want an authentic Western experience.

Surveyor Columnist

Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer

Courtesy photo

On the trail at the Sylvan Dale Ranch.

Photo by Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer

The view while on the trail at the Terry Bison Ranch.

Photo by Ryan Schlaefer

Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer with a guide at the Terry Bison Ranch.

Rocky Mountain National Park 2023 entrance guide

By Will Cornelius The Surveyor

A summer visit to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) requires a bit more planning this year, but the National Park Service said it is worth it for visitors.

If you are planning to go to RMNP today, make sure to leave your cash at home.

From June 1, the park will no longer accept cash payments for entrance and permit fees. To save time at the park entrances, visitors will have to pay with a debit, credit card or use a mobile payment option.

You will also need to book a time for the timed-entry system before you leave home. Originally introduced in 2020 to combat the spread of COVID-19, visitors need to reserve a two-hour time slot for when they will arrive at a park entrance. Timed-entry was first introduced at RMNP as a pilot program three years ago and is now being used by Arches and Glacier National Parks as well.

So, to enter the park this summer you will need: a park pass, a timed-entry reservation and to arrive during your reserved time slot.

Park passes and entrance fees come in many shapes and sizes, but for most people only a few are relevant. A one-day entrance pass for a private vehicle is $30 and covers all passengers on board. If you are planning on multiple days at RMNP there is

also a seven-day entrance pass for $35.

Annual passes are also available for RMNP for $70. An annual pass to all national parks in the country is available for $80. Senior and military discounts are also applicable for some of the passes. Park passes can be purchased online at www.nps.gov. This summer will also have two days — Aug. 4 and Sept. 23 — where entrance fees, but not timed-entry fees, are waived.

With a park pass in hand, the next step is booking a timed-entry slot for RMNP. Running from May 26 to Oct. 22 the park will require all entrants to the park to reserve a timeslot for entering. Timed entry reservations are only required between 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., outside of then no entry reservation is needed.

Timed-entry reservations can be made through www. recreation.gov. There are three available time slots each day to choose from: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Reservations can be made up to two months out.

The timed-entry system allows people to plan their trip weeks in advance, but it also allows people to book the night before. Forty percent of timed-entry tickets will be held in reserve until 5 p.m. the day before. Allowing people to still make last-minute bookings into RMNP.

With a park pass and timed-entry reservation, the last step is to show up in the time slot booked. And as always — do not feed the bears!

Summer is the time for salad

Ilove a good salad any time of the year, but a summer salad is especially delicious. One of the great things about salads is the variety of different things you can add together to make a salad. There are pasta salads, bean salads, and leafy green salads. An extraordinary number of different things can be tossed together to make incredible side dishes or even main dishes. Even in parts of this country, they make Jell-O salads, I won’t include them here, but I have seen some incredible Jell-O salads served at picnics (many from my days at Montana State) and even some incredibly awful ones. Like one with chicken noodle soup, celery, mayo, and shrimp, I’m not making that up. I won’t scare you with that one.

The possibilities for a summer salad can be endless. I have included three of my favorites here. A salad of beets, goat cheese, and walnuts that is refreshing and easy. A roasted chickpea salad with some herby flavors and lots of different textures, and my Not Your Mamma’s Tuna Pasta Salad that doesn’t even taste like tuna that is savory and addictive.

Roasted Chickpea Salad

A summer salad full of textures and flavors with herbs and feta cheese. Serves 6-8

The roasted chickpeas:

1 16 oz. can chickpeas/garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed

A drizzle of olive oil

¼ teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon dried parsley

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and Pepper, to taste

Dressing:

grated zest from 1 lemon

¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, approx. 1 lemon

½ teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon dried parsley

1 Tablespoon maple syrup or honey, or to taste

¼ cup olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

To assemble the salad:

1 head romaine lettuce, chopped

1 cup cucumber, diced

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved or diced

4 oz. feta cheese, crumbled

1 small shallot, thinly sliced, or you can use a green onion

Instructions: Roasted chickpeas: Preheat oven to 400°. Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then dry by rolling a paper towel over the chickpeas (if the skins come off, either discard or leave; it’s up to you if you want to remove the skins from all chickpeas). Spread the chickpeas on a rimmed baking sheet, lightly drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle oregano, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over chickpeas. Roll chickpeas around the baking sheet until all are coated with olive oil and herbs. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy, shaking them halfway through.

Dressing: Whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, parsley, and maple syrup or honey. Slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking. Add salt to taste and adjust

ingredients to the preferred taste as needed.

To assemble the salad: Toss lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, shallot, feta, and roasted chickpeas together. Toss with the desired amount of dressing, reserving what is left. Garnish with additional feta as desired and enjoy immediately.

Not Your Mamma’s Tuna

Pasta Salad

A savory tuna pasta salad that doesn’t even taste like tuna, just delicious. Serves 6-8 generous portions

1 lb tube pasta

macaroni, ziti, penne, cellentani

1 cup slivered almonds

1 tablespoon butter

1 cup diced sweet onion or yellow

1 cup cubed Jarlsberg

1 cup sliced green onion 3 – 4

2 5 oz cans of white tuna drained

1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

1 cup mayonnaise

SALAD continued on page 17

Surveyor Columnist

David Tisue

Photos by David Tisue Not Your Momma’s Tuna Pasta Salad

SALAD

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

1 tablespoon hot chili sesame oil or 1 extra tablespoon toasted sesame oil if you don’t like spice

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Fill a large pot with cold water and bring to a boil over high heat. Salt the water generously. Add the pasta and cook according to the directions on the package.

At the same time, toast the almonds in a large dry skillet or fry pan over medium heat. Stir or toss until nicely browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the toasted almonds to a plate or bowl.

Melt the butter in the frying pan and cook the diced onions until browned. Remove and add to the almonds.

When the pasta is cooked, drain well and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Make sure the pasta, onions, and almonds are all at room temperature.

In a large bowl, combine the tuna, yogurt, mayonnaise, toasted and hot chili sesame oils, salt and pepper. Add all the other ingredients, including the cooked and well-drained pasta and the onion-almond mixture. Mix well and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.

Beet

Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

A light, easy salad with roasted beets and chunks of goat cheese tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette. Serves 6

For the salad

3 medium-sized beets or enough to get 1-2 cups of diced beets

4 oz goat cheese, crumbled

1 cup walnuts, toasted if possible

½ cup dried cranberries

For the vinaigrette

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly crushed black pepper finely ground

1 large garlic clove minced

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Preheat oven to 400°

For the roasted beets — Trim the stems off the beets and scrub them very clean; no need to dry them. The water will help them cook. Wrap each beet individually with foil and seal tightly. Roast the beets for about one hour or until they can easily be pierced with a fork. Set them aside to cool. Unwrap the beets. With paper towels, rub off the skins. Slice or cube the beets into bite-sized portions and let cool completely. This can be done ahead, and the beets can be refrigerated until ready to make the salad.

For the vinaigrette — In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, balsamic, mustard, salt, pepper and garlic. Add the oil and whisk thoroughly to combine. Continue whisking until the dressing is fully emulsified.

Assemble the salad — To a serving bowl, add the greens. Add the beets, crumbled goat cheese, walnuts, and cranberries. Toss with the vinaigrette and serve immediately.

Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

NoCo is home to many farmers' markets, Berthoud’s has a few changes

By Shelley Widhalm

The Surveyor

Farmer’s markets are all over Northern Colorado, and Berthoud is no exception — but this year the market has a new name, a new day and time and new organizers.

The Berthoud Local Farmers Market is now called Berthoud’s Fickel Farmer’s Market and will remain at Fickel Park. Instead of Saturday mornings, it will be Thursday evenings as it continues to operate mid-June to late September.

“Our market will be held on Thursday evenings, which could allow more families to attend, as many Colorado families plan weekend activities. Also, the Fickel Farmer’s Market is the only Thursday market in Northern Colorado,” said Steve Hensley, operations supervisor for the Town of Berthoud. “The town believes this has attracted more of a variety of vendors as the market is not competing with the larger farmer’s markets held on Saturdays.”

This year, the Farmer’s Market will be 4-7 p.m. June 8-Sept. 21 with the same lineup of local vendors of growers, producers and makers, plus live music and food trucks. There will be more handcrafted products and an average of 14 vendors each day, selling farm goods, skin care items and baked goods. Larimer County also will provide information on its master grower classes and landscaping tips.

Berthoud Local transferred ownership of the farmer’s market to the Town of Berthoud after operating it for nine years, since it has more resources to ensure its continued operation. The mission of the Berthoud farmer’s market will remain the same of supporting, educating and expanding sustainable agriculture.

“By facilitating this community resource, we strive to strengthen relationships between local food production and food consumers by educating, nourishing and making local food accessible for all of our community,” Hensley said. “It’s a way to support local farmers and keep the money you spend on produce closer to your neighbors. Also, you are buying produce at its peak of the growing season, which means it will be more delicious than your store-bought items.”

Other farmer’s markets in Northern Colorado also make local food accessible, varying when and how they line up their vendors. They’re part of a growing trend of offering fresh produce and other local products and of supporting local farmers, growers and artisans.

In Loveland, the Farmers Market at Fairgrounds Park, 700 S. Railroad Ave., will be Sundays June 4-Sept. 24 with 45 to 50 vendors offering locally grown and raised produce, meat, poultry, dairy and artisan goods.

The last Sunday of the month, the farmers market will include an Artist Market with 15 additional local vendors June 25, July 30, Aug. 27 and Sept. 24. There also will be several special days, including Bike Day on June 4, Bloody Marys & Mimosas on June 18 and July 23, Red/White/Blue on

July 2, Christmas in July on July 30, Kids & Watermelon Daze on Aug. 13, Honey Festival on Sept. 10, and Apples, Artists & Autumn on Sept. 24. The special days were added in 2019 to bring in different audiences and introduce them to the market.

Each market day will include three to four food truck, as well as live music in American folk style.

“We do these extra fun events. It’s a fun place to be out and with the community to be connected,” said Kerry Helke, senior recreation coordinator of the Loveland Parks & Recreation Department, which operates the Farmers Market at Fairgrounds Park. “We keep growing it each year and adding and trying to make things a little better.”

The Longmont Farmers Market will be Saturdays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 1-Nov. 4 at Boulder County Fairgrounds in Longmont. The Fort Collins Farmers Market is two days a week at 1001. E. Harmony Rd. with the Sunday Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 7-Nov. 12 and the Wednesday Market 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 14 to Sept. 27. The Greeley Farmers’ Market also is on Sundays May 7-Oct. 29 and is at the Depot, 902 Seventh Ave.