Laughter-filled afternoons. Muddy paw prints. Spontaneous adventures. Life’s best moments shouldn’t be overshadowed by the worry of tomorrow.
Legacy planning allows you to provide for those you cherish most — long after you pass away.
With us in your corner, you’re free to focus on today’s joys while we plan for tomorrow’s security with:
• Tax-smart giving: Maximize your generosity with tailored strategies.
• Insurance & annuity insights: Secure the future with updated policies.
• Charitable impact: Make meaningful contributions that last beyond a lifetime.
Don’t miss Alicia and Joshua Lewis’ latest book, “Peace Out! Retire Into Your Go-Go Years.” Building on their unique, five-step PEACE PROCESS® their book further outlines the important principles and strategies to help you stay on the go-go-throughout retirement. Learn
by visiting GoGo-RetireColorado. com to request your free copy of “Peace Out!”
A McWhinney Community
LET'S KEEP A
GROWING
Let’s keep making room for the good stuff. All things artful, delicious and wild. Let’s mix it up. With more workplaces and green spaces. Local food and native plants. Homes and trails. Town and nature. Let’s use our legs. Let’s walk to the park and bike to lunch. Let’s run some errands … literally.
And let’s create a shared vision for our community. For an even more prosperous, livable, loveable Loveland.
Life is Still an Adventure
When sitting down to write this month’s lifestyle letter, I thought about all the wonderful pets I had as a kid and the impact of teaching dance in this community, and how impressed I was with the young girls and boys of Larimer County’s 4-H youth program and began to realize that the ones who often teach us the most about life and love are either not human or they still hold the world in awe through the unjaded eyes of a child. This offers us a great gift, to see the world through a different lense and from a new perspective, one that is less affected by time and experience.
Sometimes as we age, we get so caught up in the everyday that we stop seeing things for the first time and we forget all the beauty and good that surrounds us everywhere, every single day. Life really is about the little things and our ability to slow down long enough to appreciate and witness them and then to hold space and show gratitude.
When we are blessed to spend time with a child or a pet, we remember what life really is about and we are reminded to see things with fresh eyes, and still find wonder in the little things that we sometimes overlook. They show us that it’s not hard to love more, forgive quicker and to still be excited to see the people we care about.
As you read through the stories in this month’s issue, we hope that it brings you back to a place of contentment and wholesomeness. We encourage you to treat yourself the same way you would a small child or a puppy; spend more time being present with the ones you love, feed yourself healthy food, offer a helping hand and a smile (or a tail wag) to everyone you meet, play often, spend time outdoors, always be eager to learn, let your imagination run wild, and show yourself and others grace. Smile often, give more, let your life be an adventure and show kindness because we really are all just walking one another home.
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
city scene
1: Joie Lantz, Pamela Barthlama, Stephanie Shawver, and Michelle Grace at the annual Chamber of Loveland Golf Tournament . 2: Fly Fitness hosts their first spin class in the Foundry in Downtown Loveland. 3: Poudre Valley REA's 2024 Honor Float send off for the Honor Float & Fishing Trip. 4: Kari Schaneman and Jessica Bilevich of Bumble Bee Blinds, Mandy Mullen of Windsor Gives, Heidi Jacobi of One Hope Wine. 5: IT Colorado's Ribbon Cutting for the Loveland Chamber of Commerce. 6: Brett Brown and one of their family's baby kittens. 7: Shawn and Katy from Ouzel Creative at Deskchair's Rooftop Social.
8: Men's networking group "The Hustle Hour" at Loveland's Axe to Grind! 9: Lenders vs Agents golf tournament with Kari Schaneman, Aaron Nelson, James MacNaughton, Mandy Mullen, Eric Thompson, and Ali Petrichor. 10: Chief Sendelbach awards Captain Ben Anderson on twenty years of service with Loveland Fire & Rescue. 11: Katie Johnson, Desiree Gustafson, Rylee Hupp, and Kari Wissel at The Taste of Loveland. 12: Bryan Eslao passing the finish line at the Loveland Liberty 5K. 13: Aaron Ellingson, Nicholas Dunagan, Aimee Trainor, Tyrel Trainor, Amy Lucas & daughter Ruby at the Loveland Liberty 5k with Health4Heroes. 14: Jason Baltazar & Ty Montgomery at Blue Federal Credit Union's Kick-off ParTee for the Ascendant Golf Tournament.
NORTHERN
business monthly
Ouzel Creative Officially Part of the Colorado Green Biz Network
Ouzel Creative is now a part of the Colorado Green Biz Network. The CGBN is a voluntary program that encourages, supports, and rewards organizations that make the move toward the goal of true, operational sustainability. Ouzel Creative is working with the CGBN to set goals and meet requirements for reaching a recognized level of business sustainability in addition to an array of other sustainable practices.
Scan to read more
Sage Speakeasy & Lounge Now Open
Sage Speakeasy & Lounge officially opened its doors in the Cleveland Station building in Downtown Loveland. Enjoy a drink, a bite, and a fresh & luxurious experience. Sage Speakeasy & Lounge is open seven days a week, Monday through Friday from noon to 10pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 10pm.
The Forge Campus Event Center Powered by Grimm Brothers Brewery Now Open
The Forge Campus Event Center is now open. It's a one-of-a-kind facility powered by Grimm Brothers Brewery and it offers a variety of curated entertaining areas, including the Grimm Brothers Brewhouse, an expansive and enchanted outdoor patio, and the captivating 7,000-square-foot Grimmwood Hall.
Photography by Ouzel Creative
Photography by Sage Speakeasy & Lounge
LARIMER COUNTY 4H KIDS GET THEIR ANIMALS READY FOR FAIR
Brynlee, Bailee, and Paisley Bopp and their pigs.
MEET THESE LARIMER COUNTY 4-H KIDS, THEIR PIGS, AND ONE LITTLE SHEEP NAMED DILL
The month of August is synonymous with a lot of things—late summer heat waves, back-to-school, and if you live in Larimer County, it also means it’s county fair time.
The Larimer County Fair hosts a number of events and entertainment, but some of the most popular are the 4-H exhibitors, competitions, and the Junior Livestock Sale.
The Larimer County CSU Extension is home to one of the largest 4-H programs in Colorado in which youth are able to
ARTICLE BY SARAH ERICKSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANA MARTIN CREATIVE
Holding chickens at the Bopp family farm.
participate in fun, hands-on learning activities. Kids ages 8-18 can choose from an array of projects to enroll in, from creative arts to STEM to natural resources projects. But undoubtedly some of the most popular projects that 4-H offers are their animal projects. They can choose from beef, cats, dairy cattle, dog, goat, horse, poultry, rabbit, sheep, swine, or veterinary science and are immersed in taking care of their animals, keeping accurate records and then showing them at the Larimer County Fair, if they meet certain requirements.
We had the pleasure of meeting a few Larimer County 4-H kids and their pigs,
and one little sheep named Dill. After chatting about how they got involved, what they've learned, and their favorite parts of being involved in 4-H, the most common response was the responsibility and life skills acquired by caring for their livestock.
David Hale, father of 11-year-old Anna, who has a dairy cow, and 8-year-old Anthony, who has two lambs, appreciates the responsibility his children are learning. “We appreciate the responsibility and things like public speaking that they’re learning. It’s very hands-on and they’re good skills for children to learn. Being involved in 4-H has paid off in dividends.”
Brett Brown and his pig.
“I love washing, training, and caring for my animals and giving them a good life.”
Anna went on to say that she’s learned how to follow directions and interact with people in public from giving presentations and talking to the judges, while Anthony has learned a great deal of responsibility. “I love washing and training and caring for my animals and giving them a good life,” Anthony says.
Overall grand champion for her market swine, 10-year-old Brynlee Bopp got involved in 4-H because her mother showed in 4-H. She too says that she’s learned a great deal of responsibility from her pigs, but what she loves most is the time she gets to spend with her
family when they’re all doing their chores. Brynlee’s two sisters, Bailee and Paislee also have pigs and a farm full of other animals to care for. It truly is a family affair.
“I love 4-H because if I'm having a bad day, I can come home from school and go out to the pigs and it helps me clear my mind," says 10-year-old Scarlett Johnson, who has 3 market swine. "And they’re so funny. They’ll chew on your boots and it cheers you up.”
14-year-old Brett Brown and his brother, 11-year-old Lane have a number of swine as well. Brett has learned a lot from 4-H but one of the most important takeaways for him is dedication. “You learn about not quitting. Every
Anthony Hale and his sheep, Dill.
day you go out and feed them in the morning and poop scoop, and the next day you go out and do the exact same things again.”
Lane’s favorite part of 4-H is hanging out with friends at the fair as well as with the pigs. “The animals are so sweet and have the best personalities.”
The Larimer County Fair is August 2-6. The Junior Livestock Sale is Wednesday, August 7 at 4:30 pm at the MAC Equipment Indoor Arena at The Ranch and is a great way for businesses and the community to get involved in supporting 4-H youth, and to bring home or donate meat to a local food shelter.
Scarlett Johnson doing chores on the farm.
A LOOK INTO THE LIFE-CHANGING AND POSITIVE IMPACT OF THERAPY DOGS
Caring Canines
ARTICLE BY SARAH ERICKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARING
Rocky working with a local student.
A student laughing with a Caring Canine therapy dog.
CANINES, DON ALLINGHAM, LINDSAY CHACON
A student reading with a Caring Canine therapy dog.
“Our dogs give people permission to express love and to receive love.”
Nothing quite compares to the unconditional love that a dog can provide. When we come home to their eager faces, even the longest day can melt into pure love and delight. However, the hardworking and kind-hearted team at Caring Canines has seen firsthand how dogs, particularly therapy dogs, not only provide unconditional love, but enhance quality of life, provide comfort, boost confidence, and allow for true healing for many children, students and adults throughout Northern Colorado.
Life-changing and impactful moments are plentiful at Caring Canines and for Director, Sylvia Stribling, it’s these moments that make her work with Caring Canines the most rewarding work she has ever done. She explains, “I am proud that we can teach kindness, compassion, love, and respect through our dogs, which is so important in today’s world.”
Started in 2017 by founder, Georgia Granger, Caring Canines’ mission is to enhance quality of life through therapeutic interventions with caring canines, their owners, and professionals. Granger retired in 2021 and handed over the reins to Stribling. An animal lover to the core, Stribling who has worked with AAT/AAA programs for over 20 years has always been interested in the human-animal bond. She knows that we all have stories to tell about how an animal has touched our lives and it is important to her that Caring Canines continue to bring comfort and happiness to those in our community who need it the most.
Caring Canine dogs work wherever they are needed including schools with traumatized and at-risk students, Platte Valley Youth Services Center for incarcerated youth, day programs for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, assisted living and memory care facilities, libraries, teen suicide prevention programs, rehab centers, hospice, and even summer camp programs. They provide both Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Animal Assisted Activities (AAA). AAT involves working in schools and rehab facilities with students who are referred by psychologists, social workers, counselors or special-ed teachers. The Caring Canine dogs are
both tools and motivators helping individuals achieve clearly-defined goals set by professionals and are then implemented through the dogs. AAA are casual meet and greet visits that involve interacting with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities and are in assisted living facilities, hospitals, reading programs in libraries, and other environments.
The power of therapy dogs is undeniable and Stribling has seen time and time again how the Caring Canine therapy dogs have made an impact on the lives of those they work with.
“It’s been proven that the simple act of petting a dog can elevate moods, lower anxiety, and help people relax. Dogs offer unconditional love. Our dogs give people permission to express love and to receive love. They do not talk back or judge anyone. Many of the students have too much judgment in their lives by adults and peers. Often students will open up and talk to the dog about what is going on in their lives. Plus, it’s just FUN being with a dog!”
A 9-year-old elementary school student recently told a Caring Canines volunteer that “when I’m broken into pieces, Oscar helps put me back together.”
One of the counselors that Stribling works with told her that after interacting with one of the dogs, two students felt comfortable enough to open up to him about thoughts of suicide.
Another counselor told her that after the first session of working with one of their dogs while she was walking the boy back to his class, he told her more about what was going on at home than he had ever said before.
And another little girl stated that one of the Caring Canine dogs gave her "life--changing ideas" on how to be a better person and treat other people better.
Stribling explains, “Teens often come into the first session rather gruff and with a sense that they have to be standoffish and in control. Generally, after a couple of sessions, they are on the floor playing with the dog and experiencing all the love that the dog can give.
Plus, I believe that a new world opens up to our volunteers as well. It’s a world of volunteering, sharing, and giving. It’s a world where our dogs can make a
CONTINUED >
Often students will open up and talk to the dog about what is going on in their lives. Plus, it’s just FUN being with a dog! “ ”
A student hugging a Caring Canine therapy dog.
A student working at a table with a Caring Canine therapy dog.
I am proud that we can teach kindness, compassion, love, and respect through our dogs, which is so important in today’s world.
A happy Caring Canine therapy dog at an AAA meet and greet.
phenomenal difference in the lives of others. Our volunteers are learning so much and enjoying the process. They LOVE the relationships, interactions with the people, and the positive impact they are making!”
Caring Canines is always looking for volunteers and therapy dogs. They are in need of compassionate people who have sweet, loving dogs that have the drive to work and learn new things. In addition, their volunteers must own the dog that they train as a Caring Canine therapy dog.
“If a person is kind hearted and owns a dog that loves to please everyone, not just its owner, all they have to do is contact me through our website at www. caringcaninescolorado.org .”
Don Allingham is one such local volunteer that has been working with Caring Canines for the past 6 years with his dog, Kiki. They participate in Animal Assisted Therapy at Lincoln Elementary in Loveland.
“Every year, I get to see kids grow and progress as we work together. While I only get to see the kids for a brief time each week, it is always amazing to watch them progress. They usually start off very quiet and shy and usually very nervous around Kiki. By the end of the year, the kids are presenting what they have learned to their class or their entire grade, speaking in front of everyone, and demonstrating how they have learned to get Kiki to sit, stay, come, jump, and even run through an obstacle course.
Teachers usually comment on how the students' confidence has grown, how their behavior has improved, and how they have generally changed in a positive way throughout the year. While we are only part of the developmental programs for the students, we seem to make a significant difference.”
He goes on to say that seeing the smiles on their faces each time they see Kiki and watching Kiki run to them with her tail wagging is always the highlight of his week.
Another Caring Canines volunteer is local realtor, Lindsay Chacon. She and her dog, Rocky, just finished their first school year participating in AAT at Ivy Elementary and Turner Middle School in Berthoud.
“Rocky came into my life as a little puppy in 2020 and we quickly created a strong bond. He has the sweetest, most loving, and happy personality. I wanted to share that with others,” she explains.
Lindsay has also seen the power of her therapy dog at work. “The kids open up more and there is less tension getting to know each other with a dog than one-onone. Everyone is more relaxed. I see their confidence grow by having fun with Rocky and by him listening to their commands.”
Caring Canines is a nonprofit and relies on donations that can be made through their website at www. caringcaninescolorado.org
Caring Canine therapy dog, Kiki.
ARTICLE BY SARAH ERICKSON
BY DELANEY MORROW PHOTOGRAPHY
TEA, PASTRIES, AND EMPOWERMENT ARE SERVED UP AT THIS DELIGHTFUL NON-PROFIT TEA HOUSE
AVERY’S MODERN TEA HOUSE
PHOTOGRAPHY
As soon as you walk through the door, the natural finishes, soft colors and delectable smells are the first thing that you encounter at Avery’s Modern Tea House. The next is the kind-heartedness of the staff and the overall sense of inclusivity and empowerment that exudes from the soul of the quaint tea house as well as the
has resulted in her being blind, nonverbal, and non-mobile and requiring significant support including being g-tube fed, Bland believed deeply and knew down to her core that Avery deserved the same opportunities as any other 5-year-old. Soon realizing that there are many other children and adults just
“WE BELIEVE IN FOSTERING AN INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY THAT CELEBRATES DIVERSITY AND PROMOTES EQUALITY.”
large quote “You Are Wildly Capable” stenciled neatly on the back wall. This inclusivity and empowerment are two of the main building blocks from which this lovely and unique little non-profit tea house was built.
Opened in Loveland in February of 2024 by owner, Kristen Bland, Avery’s Modern Tea House was born with a mission to bring inclusion and provide jobs for individuals with unique abilities. The teahouse evolved from a pre-existing local non-profit organization that is focused on improving the lives of individuals with special needs called Avery’s Light also created by Bland in honor of her daughter, Avery. Despite having an undiagnosed disability that
like Avery with similar needs, Bland made it her goal from that moment forward through Avery’s Light and Avery’s Modern Tea House to bring awareness and help provide resources needed by the special needs community.
Bland explains, “I truly believe that God hand places each one of these special people with the perfect family. Since the day Avery was born, I was determined to do big things for the special needs community. The special needs population is growing rapidly and there are not near enough resources for the need. My goal from the moment Avery was born was to give her the same opportunities that my other children have.”
An honorable pursuit to the core, Bland then created Avery's Modern Tea House, Loveland’s newest and most captivating non-profit tea house, with this same mission of bringing awareness and inclusion to the disabled community. They do this by providing jobs and facilitating an environment for individuals with disabilities and their families to flourish along with the help and support of the Northern Colorado community. Avery’s Modern Tea House blends inclusivity and charm and allows for people with disabilities to serve up drinks and treats and by doing so gives them an opportunity to learn and grow their skills.
“We believe in fostering an inclusive community that celebrates diversity and promotes equality,” explains Bland.
Serving up a menu of tasty treats and offering a serene spot to swing by and pick up a drink before a meeting or to sit down and unwind, Avery's Modern Tea House also
“YOU ARE WILDLY CAPABLE.”
offers private and semi-private areas and is the perfect location for bridal parties, tea parties, birthdays and more while supporting our local special needs community.
Bland’s non-profit, Avery’s Light, also hosts an annual fundraising event called NoCoFest that features an array of musical performances, food trucks, specialty drinks, vendors, walking entertainment, silent auction and more. This annual event helps to make a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs by bringing festival vibes to Northern Colorado. This year’s event is August 24 at 6 pm at Loveland Yards. Visit www. nocofest.org to get your tickets.
Learn more about Avery’s Modern Tea House and their mission at www. averysteahouse.com. And to learn more about local non-profit, Avery's Light, or get involved visit www.averyslight.org
Avery's Employee Alejandro Cruz
AUGUST 2ND-6TH
Larimer County Fair
The Ranch Event Complex, 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland, Colorado 80538
Mark your calendar for the Larimer County Fair and PRCA Rodeo, which will be held at The Ranch from August 2 through August 6, 2024. The fair will include livestock, rides, entertainment, games, food, a parade, and exhibitions. The event is free to attend and features free parking.
AUGUST 3RD
Loveland's Annual Sour Beer Festival
Desk Chair Workspace, 201 East 4th Street, Loveland, CO 80537 | 1:00 PM
If you love beer, especially of the sour variety, then you’re going to want to make a beeline to Loveland’s Annual Sour Beer Festival on Saturday, August 3. This year's event will be brimming with local music, food, festivities and exclusive small batches.
AUGUST 3RD, 10TH, 17TH, 24TH & 31ST
Farmers & Artisans Market at The Promenade Shops at Centerra
The Promenade Shops at Centerra, 5971 Sky Pond Drive, Loveland, CO 80538 | 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Step into a world of vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and the buzz of creativity at Centerra’s newest addition: The Promenade’s Farmer’s and Artisan Market. Nestled amidst the picturesque Promenade Shops, this market is a celebration of local talent and flavors. From farm-fresh produce bursting with flavor to handcrafted treasures that tell stories of skilled artisans, every corner is brimming with authenticity and charm.
AUGUST 4TH
Dreams and Dragonflies 4th Annual Car Show
5194 County Road 50, Johnstown, CO 80534 | 10:00 AM
We're bringing the heat with a wide range of classic vehicles that are sure to make your heart race. We will have a silent auction, raffle prizes, food service, fun for the entire family. $25 car registration and free to the public. All proceeds will benefit Timeless Treasures, an effort to refurbish a 100-year-old barn in Johnstown.
AUGUST 8TH
Home Is Where The Heart Is Benefit for N2N
Sweet Heart Winery & Event Center, 5500 W Highway 34, Loveland, CO 80537 | 5:30 PM
It's the second annual Home Is Where The Heart Is Benefit. Our guests will sample tasty appetizers, delicious desserts, and of course, delectable wines. We have an enticing array of live auction items, so come prepared to bid solo, or team up to improve your chances! Funds raised will prevent homelessness in our Loveland community.
AUGUST 9TH
Loveland's Night on the Town
Downtown Loveland | 6:00 PM
This signature event is more than just an art walk — come downtown as our art galleries hold opening receptions, restaurants and bars feature seasonal food and drink specials, retail shops stay open late with sales and discount promotions and craft breweries host new beer releases. August 9th theme is Black & White and will feature live music on the Foundry Plaza Stage!
AUGUST 9TH, 10TH & 11TH
Loveland Sculpture in the Park Show and Sale
Benson Sculpture Garden, 2908 Aspen Drive, Loveland, CO 80538
The Loveland High Plains Arts Council invites you to join us for the 40th Sculpture in the Park Show and Sale. Mark your calendars for what will be another beautiful occasion at Benson Sculpture Garden. Explore art, interact with creative minds, and discover captivating sculptures with your family! Friday is the Patron Party with a limited number of paid tickets available. www.sculptureinthepark.org. Friday, August 9th 3pm - 8pm | Saturday, August 10th 9:30am - 5pm | Sunday, August 11th 9:30am - 4:30pm
AUGUST 15TH
2nd Annual Big Thompson River Cleanup & After-Party
700 S Railroad Ave, Loveland, CO 80537 | 4:00 PM
Protect Our Rivers is teaming up with Loveland Ford, Buick & GMC for their 2nd Annual Big Thompson River Cleanup. Join in on Thursday, August 15th for an impactful river cleanup on the Big Thompson River followed by a celebratory beer at Loveland Ale Works! More info at www.bigthompsonrivercleanup2024.splashthat.com
AUGUST 16TH
Weld County Garage's Suitcase Party 2024
Discovery Air - at NoCo Regional Airport, 5017 Lindbergh Dr., Loveland, CO 80538 | 2:00 PM
NOCO Unify's premier fundraiser where lucky raffle winners will be whisked away by private plane to Jackson Hole, WY. The event is a memorable evening for winners and all attendees with a live & silent auction, live music, food and drink, dancing and big party vibe to raise money for NOCO youth.
AUGUST 23RD & 24TH
Loveland Corn Roast Festival
Fairgrounds Park, 798 S Railroad Ave., Loveland, CO 80537, United States | 5:00 PM
Calling all superheroes in Loveland and beyond! Join us for our annual Community Corn Roast Festival! Join thousands of fellow heroes for a day filled with fun, music, food, and super-powered festivities, Corn Shucking Contest & Cornhole Tournament! Together, let's make memories and celebrate the spirit of community with the Loveland Chamber! Friday, August 23 5pm-10pm | Saturday, August 24 9:30am-8pm
AUGUST 23RD, 24TH & 25TH
Overland Expo Mountain West 2024
The Ranch, 5280 Arena Cir, Loveland, CO 80538 | Friday and Saturday 8 AM - 5 PM & Sunday 9 AM - 3 PM
Overland Expo® is the premier overlanding event series in the world—no other event offers the scope of classes taught by the world’s leading experts alongside a professional-level trade show that brings together all the camping and vehicle and motorcycle equipment and services you need to Get Outfitted. Get Trained. Get Inspired. Get Going.
Local nonprofit, Avery’s Light, will be hosting their annual fundraising event called NoCoFest that features an array of musical performances, food trucks, specialty drinks, vendors, walking entertainment, silent auction and more. This annual event helps to make a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs by bringing festival vibes to Northern Colorado.
Want to be featured?
Saturday, August 10 th 10 am – 1 pm
Star t your tour at Kinston Hub
There are a lot of lovely things happening at Kinston, and we want you to be a part of it. Come out and enjoy:
• Tours of our newly opened model homes from Bridgewater Homes and David Weekley Homes
• Tour our new VellaTerra Built-for-Rent® paired homes
• Live chef demos and tastings at the model homes
• Boxed lunches and a lemonade bar from Hub Café by Fresh Plate
• Family-friendly activities at Kinston Hub, including a DJ, lawn games, caricature artist and more
Come see why Kinston is one of Northern Colorado's best places to buy a home. 6402 Union Creek Drive, Loveland, CO 80538
