MyWindsor April 2023

HOME GARDEN EDITION

do new differently

Consider this an open invitation to get back to some well-established but long forgotten ideas about home, about neighborhood and about the deeper meaning of community Welcome to Kinston, a new way to live in Loveland, Colorado.

explore New homes from the $400s kinstoncenterra com

Getting a case of Spring Fever?

HOME RENOVATIONS

Whether your making over a kitchen or a bathroom, there are cco-friendly options.

NOTES FROM TOWN HALL

Check out the events happening at the Windsor Town Hall in the near future.

EDUCATION

Windsor Middle School teacher Audrey Mead in the running for an NHL award.

COLORADO NEWS

The Mayor’s Waterwise Challenge kicks off April 1 in Windsor.

COLORADO NEWS

The Polar Plunge raises money for nearly 16,000 Special Olympics Colorado athletes.

Weld RE-4 District hires two Principals for new Elementary schools.

COLORADO NEWS

Windsor’s Ben Hess embarks on new film tackling the question of consent CALENDAR

Catch Spring fever by getting out and about in Windsor at these fun events.

HOMETOWN HEROES

Windsor’s Spykstra family has dedicated their time and talents to helping the community of Windsor grow

BIZ411

EcoSpring Landscaping owners Michael Nuñez and Nico Galto specialize in outdoor entertainment areas, landscaping, outdoor lighting, pergolas and more.

FEATURE STORY

The Windsor Gardener: Growing with the community for over 30 years.

TREAT YOURSELF TO WELLNESS

Looking forward to the spring and summer seasons

FACES OF THE FUTURE

Windsor student Avis Skinner and the VEX Robotics Maximum Output Team

CUSTOM HOME TRENDS

Consider blacksmith-crafted ironwork or custom bath enclosures when looking for one-of-a-kind features for your home

STEP OUT YOUR BACK DOOR

C2RS Contracting specializes in custom pergolas and patios

ccording to the calendar, spring has s sprung, but as in typical Colorado fashion, that doesn’t mean you can pull out the flip-flops and gardening tools just quite yet However, while we wait for Mother Nature to finish up with the rounds of cold weather, it’s a good time to start planning for those home and garden projects. Keeping with this month’s theme of home and garden, we visit with the folks from The Windsor Gardener to learn about the products, plants and services they offer For over 30 years, owners Amanda and Pat Weakland have been growing their business alongside the town of Windsor to create a onestop-shop for the gardening needs of community members. New to gardening? The Windsor Gardener staff are happy to help lead you in the right direction when it comes to plants and flowers for the area as well as what steps to take to help foliage survive the constantly changing Colorado weather.

OnTheCover

AThe Windsor Gardener can also help you keep a handle on those weeds through their knowledge of all kinds of different weed control and mitigation options, including chemical sprays to more natural-based products

Don’t have a green thumb or aren’t really interested in doing your own landscaping? Then check out Windsor’s EcoSpring Landscaping, featured in this month’s Biz411 piece to learn how they can help you with your yard needs. From pergolas and patios to raised garden beds and outdoor kitchens, EcoSpring Landscaping can turn your bland and boring yard into an amazing outdoor entertainment space perfect for hosting barbecues and parties

MyWindsor contributor Sandi Squicquero writes about spring and summer safety risks to be on the lookout for while MyWindsor sits down with the Spykstra family to talk about what keeps them committed to staying and working in Windsor. Check out all these stories and more in this month’s edition of MyWindsor

Tamara Markard Editor

On this month's MyWindsor cover, we have Amanda Weakland, second from left, standing alongside some of her staff at The Windsor Gardener, where you can brighten up your porch or patio with some hanging flowers or plants Cover photo by Tamara Markard

BY TAMARA MARKARD

SPYKSTRA FAMILY

The couple was somewhat familiar with the area since Dan Spykstra’s sister lived in Greeley and they would pass through Windsor on their way to visit her

BY TAMARA MARKARD

Whether it’s a teacher who inspires students to be their best, a kid who shovels the driveway for their elderly neighbors or a company that donates services, time and products to the community, there’s no shortage of local heroes in our community

MyWindsor’ s Hometown Hero feature is a way to recognize and thank the people and companies who strive to make our community better through their time, talents, generosity and kindness.

Do you know a person, business or organization that would make a great story for the Hometown

Hero feature? Then send their name and contact information to Tamara Markard at tmarkard@ greeleytribune.com.

For MyWindsor’ s April edition of Hometown Hero, we look at the Spykstra family. Each member of the family has dedicated their time and talents to helping the community of Windsor grow, develop and prosper Colorado natives, Dan and Stacey Spykstra moved to Windsor from Fort Collins in 2000 while looking for a smaller town in which to raise their children

“We came here for the schools,” Dan Spykstra said.

Dan Spykstra is an owner ’ s rep for Wember Inc. An owner ’ s rep represents a property owner in construction projects by hiring architects, contractors and “everybody else,” and managing the project.

Some of the tasks owner ’ s reps are responsible for include:

• Design and permitting

• Feasibility studies

• Move coordination

• Stakeholder and community engagement

• Drawing reviews

• Managing the project budget and schedule

“I just finished the Station 4 project for Chief Kazian and I am now working with the town

The Spykstra family, from left to right, Lexie, Stacey, Dan and Mitch Spykstra. (Tamara Markard/Staff Reporter)

THE SAYING “NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES” IS SO TRUE WHEN IT COMES TO PEOPLE WHO CONTRIBUTE AND GIVE BACK TO THEIR COMMUNITY.

to build the police station I am also working on building a library in Severance,” explained Dan Spykstra. “I work in the community as much as I can.”

Stacey Spykstra has been with the Weld RE-4 School District for 16 years working as an accountant at Windsor High School.

“It’s neat because the school district is trying to keep that community feel,” Stacey Spykstra commented. “Even with the growth, especially with Severance getting a high school, I think they work to make it all one community. We are really grateful that our kids got to go through school when there was only one high school.”

Son Mitch Spykstra is a firefighter and acting engineer with the Windsor-Severance Fire Rescue. He works out of Station 2, located at 9 Timber Ridge Parkway in Severance.

“I actually did consider moving to other areas, but we grew up behind one of the old fire chiefs of Windsor and I chatted with him a bunch about it,” Mitch Spykstra said. “Then I got into volunteering with the (Windsor-Severance) department, and that’s where I wanted to stay.”

Lexie Spykstra, the couple’s daughter, is the Events and Sponsorship coordinator for Windsor, organizing a variety of fun activities as well as fostering relationships between the town, residents and the business community

The town’s annual Summer Concert Series and July 4th celebration are just two of the events that Lexie Spykstra helps put together

“It’s really fun to now produce the events that I used to attend growing up,” Lexie Spykstra said.

While Mitch Spykstra stayed in Windsor, Lexie Spykstra wanted to stretch her wings and see what the world was like

outside of northern Colorado.

“I went to L.A. and was like, ‘yep, nope, I want to go back’,” she quipped, laughing. “I went out there for fashion school right after high school and didn’t stay too long.”

Through their careers, the family has a unique advantage to seeing how leaders are working to maintain the “smalltown” feel of Windsor.

“The thing we are focusing on is keeping it a community Even though it is growing, we still continue to have these intimate events and partnerships with the school district and fire department that keep us having that smalltown feel,” Lexie Spykstra said. “And that’s a huge thing that separates us from other places like Fort Collins.”

Growing up in the area also gives Mitch and Lexie Spykstra the opportunity to work with people that helped shaped them, such as teachers and coaches.

“It’s fun because they know my story and I know their story It’s made a very interesting culture for where we work,” Lexie Spykstra said

In addition to the small-town feel, Windsor’s location provides community members the opportunity to visit larger cities like Fort Collins and Denver to enjoy the amenities those areas have to offer without having to sacrifice living in a larger town, Stacey Spykstra said

Out of the family of four, Dan Spykstra has the hardest task of balancing the growth of the town with his desire to keep things as-is.

“It’s really hard because I am in construction; it’s my field and you have to have progress. But I can now pick and choose what I do, versus building whatever,” he said.

According to the couple, they are in their “toe-tag” home and have no plans of moving out of

the area If things go according to plan, the Spykstras will finish out their careers, retire and take joy in watching their kids accomplish their own dreams and goals.

“It will be fun to see what goes on in the town in the future,” Stacey Spykstra said.

Like their parents, the Spykstra kids have no desire to leave the Windsor area either.

“That’s the neat part. When they were in high school, they were like, ‘we’re getting out of Windsor’,” Dan Spykstra said, laughing. “So we are very blessed to keep them here.”

“THE THING WE ARE FOCUSING ON IS KEEPING IT A COMMUNITY. EVEN THOUGH IT IS GROWING, WE STILL CONTINUE TO HAVE THESE INTIMATE EVENTS AND PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE SCHOOL

DISTRICT AND FIRE DEPARTMENT THAT KEEP US HAVING THAT SMALL TOWN FEEL.”

—LEXIE SPYKSTRA

BY TAMARA

Each month MyWindsor highlights a local business to share what services and products it offers

From plumbers to pet shops and breweries to hardware stores, every business plays a part in the success of a community.

Do you know of a business that would be a great candidate for the Biz411 feature?

Send the business name and any contact information to Tamara Markard at tmarkard@greeleytribune com

As we begin to transition into spring and warmer weather, homeowners are starting to plan out their landscaping and gardening projects

However, if you ’ ve never had the urge to try out your green thumb or your yard is in need of help that is way over your ability, bringing in professionals may be something you want to consider

Michael Nuñez and Nico Galto, owners of EcoSpring Landscaping LLC., specialize in a variety of landscaping needs including designing outdoor living spaces, installing and/or renovating irrigation systems, building raised garden beds, designing custom hardscapes, building pergolas, placing rock, constructing fences and more

“Garden boxes are something we really enjoy doing,” Galto said.

The company likes to work with homeowners to incorporate a variety of landscaping features such as sod, mulch and rock, giving yards pops of different color and texture.

“We definitely work with homeowners on the projects they want to do, so one of us will be at the job site at all times,” Nuñez said

Most recently, Nuñez and Galto designed an outdoor kitchen for a client in Kechter Farm in Fort Collins. They incorporated custom

stonework, lighting, seating and more for the project.

“It was just a regular-sized backyard and to be able to fit all of this into it, the homeowner and Nico did a lot of planning and adjustments,” Nuñez said EcoSpring Landscaping works with local concrete companies and fencing companies to provide customers with a complete quote for any sized project they are looking to do.

“It saves homeowners money and instead of having three different contractors, you just meet with us, ” Nuñez said.

“And they are really good at what they do We’ve never had a callback for any of the work the concrete or fencing contractors have done,” Galto added

The duo works on new construction

A pergola created by EcoSpring Landscaping LLC provides shade as well as some sunlight. (Courtesy/EcoSpring Landscaping LLC)

EcoSpring Landscaping LLC can construct raised garden and flower beds for clients (Courtesy/EcoSpring Landscaping LLC)

EcoSpring Landscaping LLC co-owner Nico Galto works on a stone patio for one of the company’s customers (Courtesy/ EcoSpring Landscaping LLC)

projects that may have zero landscaping as well as established homes, where owners may want a revamp or update to their landscaping.

EcoSpring Landscaping not only serves Windsor, but many of the cities across the northern Colorado region, including Loveland and Fort Collins, as well as down into Denver

They have been working in the landscaping industry for more than 15 years

The business owners initially met while working for another landscaping company out of Fort Collins Knowing the quality of work and dedication to customer service they each had, Nuñez

and Galto decided to strike out on their own in 2019

“When we started in 2019, we started with just a 1994 GMC Suburban and we would rent U-Haul trailers,” Nuñez said, laughing. “So we ’ ve improved a lot. Now we have two trucks, a dump trailer we definitely have been growing every year ”

While the COVID pandemic hindered many businesses, Nuñez and Galto experienced the opposite effect As more people transitioned to working from home, they started to take more of an interest in getting outdoors and enjoying scenery, especially when it came to enjoying the outdoors from their own yard

That combined with the company ’ s quality of work and positive word-ofmouth referrals, Nuñez and Galto’s business began to rapidly bloom and grow

“We always knew we wanted to go out on our own, ” Galto said “To begin with just bare dirt and then see the homeowner come out and be excited, that’s what we really enjoy about what we do ”

THE 411

EcoSpring Landscaping LLC

Owners Michael Nuñez and Nico Galto

• Specializing in irrigation, hardscapes, outdoor entertainment areas, faux-grass installation, landscaping, outdoor lighting, pergolas and more.

• Licensed and insured

• For more information, go to www.ecospringlandscaping.com, call (970) 214-1722 or email EcoSpringLandcaping@ gmail.com.

BY TAMARA MARKARD

GROWING WITH THE COMMUNITY FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS

While many people in other parts of the country are happily outside working in their yards, Coloradans patiently wait, watching the weather forecasts to signal the last freeze of the year And even then, it’s a crap-shoot and no guarantee that your newly potted plants won’t either freeze to death or fry.

Despite the challenges the Colorado climate brings, when the calendar flips to March, people start planning

their gardening and landscaping projects.

Whether you ’ re a newbie to gardening in Colorado or an experienced plant parent, The Windsor Gardener has everything you will need to help turn your yard into a work of art.

Pat and Amanda Weakland are the owners of The Windsor Gardener and when it comes to gardening and growing things, the couple has natural green thumbs

Pat Weakland is a third generation grower while Amanda Weakland brings what she learned about horticulture growing up on her family’s farm in Kansas to the business

The Weaklands initially began their adventure in the gardening and landscaping industry in 1991, when they opened Plant-A-Scape, a small seasonal greenhouse

“It was one of those mobile things like at King Soopers, and we set it up on seventh and Main, where the Dollar Store is,” Amanda Weakland explained. “We sold stuff for three years there and that property got sold So we moved out by Pizza Hut and we were there for like four or five years. After 10 years we put one here and decided to develop it.”

As the community has grown, so has The Windsor Gardener. The facility not only features plants, flowers and gardening products, the Weaklands also offer educational and just-for-fun classes

“We opened when there were 3,500 people in Windsor It was pretty tough going and we actually closed in the winters,” Amanda Weakland said “It’s nice that the town has grown up around us Right next to us used to be a corn field Back then were out in the country, so things have really grown ”

With the addition of the High Hops Brewery and The Heart Distillery, the business evolved into a family run project with son Zach Weakland and daughter Rachel Weakland coming on board to help their folks run the businesses

The Windsor Gardener is 15,000 square feet of indoor space with additional space outside around the

The Windsor Gardener, which opened in 2001, offers the town and community members access to a variety of plants, flowers, yard decor and much more. (Tamara Markard/Staff Reporter)

Amanda and Pat Weakland, owners of The Windsor Gardener, delved into the garden and landscaping industry in 1991 with Plant-A-Scape, a small seasonal greenhouse in Windsor (Tamara Markard/Staff Reporter)

center The center also has some off-site greenhouses up north where they grow additional plants and flowers.

While the center does bring in some product from outside vendors, the Weaklands and their staff grow a majority of the plants you will see at The Windsor Gardener

Some of the most popular plants and flowers the center sells are geraniums and perennial hibiscus plants, which grow really well in the northern Colorado climate

“The trend right now, and has been since COVID, is houseplants. Everybody is getting into houseplants,” Amanda Weakland said “It’s kind of leveled off a little bit but unique houseplants are a big deal.”

One of the “funnest” things the center sells according to Amanda Weakland are hanging baskets.

“They get so huge and people love it,” she said

From packages of seeds and unique birdhouses to hanging pots filled with colorful flowers and pest control products, The Windsor Gardener offers that and much more

“We don’t do trees or

shrubs We did for three years but we just aren’t really big enough. You have to do what you can do,” Amanda Weakland said

One of the things that makes The Windsor Gardener stand out from other nurseries and big box home improvement stores is the staff’s willingness to share their knowledge of gardening and horticulture with customers, and vice versa.

“We don’t do design, but we are constantly helping people who come in and say, ‘I have this space ’ and they will describe the type of sunlight and we will help them with what will grow there,” Amanda Weakland said. “We learn from our customers, too They will come in and say, ‘I did this and it worked,’ and we will be like, ‘great, how did you take care of it?’”

With the water supply being a top topic in the state, Amanda Weakland and her staff work to educate and encourage customers to opt for placing potted plants around their yards and decks, versus planting straight into the ground.

“You can control water so much better with potted plants. You still get the color that way and it’s

Brighten up your porch or patio with some hanging flowers and plants from The Windsor Gardener (Tamara Markard/Staff Reporter)

FEATURE STORYcont.

easier to grow,” she explained. “And then you can just put more native and hardy landscape around them.”

Some great native plant options for yards include penstemon, gallardias and Artemisia, which works well for ground cover and is easy to grow

If you have a yard, there’s pretty good chance you have a few weeds popping up.

Weed control is a big battle for homeowners and gardeners of all skill levels and finding the right weed control for your home is important.

Some things to consider when looking for weed control products are:

• Do you have pets and/ or children that could be

affected by sprays?

• Do you want to go with natural products or chemicals?

• How often do you want to have to apply the weed control?

• What is your weed control budget?

“We have mulch to help you, we have chemical and organic varieties of products, so we have a lot of different ways to help,” Amanda Weakland said “With organic products, like vinegar sprays, you have to be very persistent and it can be a lot harder to get rid of the weeds.”

Again, the center’s staff are more than willing to chat with customers about different types of weed control and how to protect

the plants and flowers you don’t want to eliminate from your yard

“There’s all different things that we can help you with,” Amanda Weakland said “That’s what’s exciting about this; you ’ re never going to know everything and you learn something new everyday.”

To get your gardening on:

The Windsor Gardener, 6461 County Road 392, Windsor; Operating hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed Monday during the winter and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p m Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday for spring, summer and fall. For more information, go to www thewindsorgardener

From standard house plants to more exotic species of foliage, The Windsor Gardener provides a variety of unique and fun items and products to give as gifts or to use in decorating your own home (Tamara Markard/Staff Reporter)

Largest Third Rack Available* *Among leading brands based on usable volume

henever I see the ads for home and garden shows I know that spring and summer are not too far off It is just the right time to start planning for a garden whether it be vegetables or flowers or both

Soon trees will be green and we will be admiring their foliage while basking in the sun The weather this last weekend was nice enough to plant flowers, but as we live in Colorado, our last frost is still a few months away

The 40th annual Northern Home and Garden Show on March 3rd in Greeley was a great success The show featured more than 150 vendors, exhibitors, businesses and organizations showcasing a variety of products, services and information for homeowners and renters

If you missed the show in Greeley, the Northern Colorado Spring Home Show

is scheduled to roll into Loveland Friday, June 30 through Sunday, July 2 at The Ranch Events Complex, 5280 Arena Circle. The show will feature the latest in home improvement, remodeling, outdoor living and more Admission is free and all ages are welcome to attend. For more information on the Northern Colorado Spring Home Show, go to www northcoloradohomeshow com

The People's Tiny Home Festival is also a fun springtime event to check out The festival scheduled to take place at 10 a m July 1-2 at the Ranch Events Complex, 5280 Arena Circle in Loveland with demonstrations, tours of tiny homes, live entertainment, vendors and more. Admission into the show is $11 87 for adults age 13 and older, $9 75 for seniors and military and children age 12 and younger are free For more information on the People's Tiny Home Festival, go to www peoplestinyhousefestival.com.

Of course, we can't leave out the farmer’s markets around our area What is better than fresh corn, or fresh tomatoes or cucumbers from the farmers market?

My favorite is fresh

BY SANDI Y.

sliced tomatoes sliced topped with mozzarella, basil and olive oil.

Sadly, seedy vegetables such as tomatoes or zucchini accounted for 18% of Salmonella cases compared to less-seedy fruit at 12%, eggs at 12%, chicken at 10% and beef at 9%, reports Medical Daily. Be advised that cooking affected tomatoes will probably not lessen a person ’ s risk of becoming sick Add to the lingering concerns is spinach and lettuce which can be tainted with E coli

So what do we do, not buy fresh vegetables, tomatoes or corn? No. Instead of passing up these items, keep up on alerts, warnings and recalls released in the news and on social media. Refrigerate your produce and wash your vegetables, even if they are freshly bagged in the store I love spring and all that it brings, such as the smell of the flowers beginning to bud and leaves on trees beginning to sprout. Springtime offers the perfect opportunity to refresh our minds and get ready for summer When summer finally hits, I think of swimming, boating, picnics, barbecues and most of all, getting together with friends and family

However, summer also carries its own risks due to the increased number of outdoor activities

I can’t help but wonder, is fun in the sun healthy? With increased elevation and the mountain air, it’s not a surprise that Colorado is one of the sunniest places in the country Typically compared

Farmers markets are great places to find fresh and locally grown produce like carrots, tomatoes, strawberries and peaches. (Greeley Tribune file photo)

with Seattle, Wash and Ohio, Denver typically has 245 sunny days a year.

Although summer provides an opportunity for everyone to get outside and increase their activity, it holds risks such as heat, skin cancer and even tetanus. There are also viruses that commonly cause infections in the summer. If you plan to vacation somewhere outside of the U S that has a different seasonal pattern than Colorado, be aware that you might be exposed to people that are in the peak of their flu season, which may lead to you

getting sick

Who has ever heard of dry drowning? The idea that someone could drown hours after visiting a swimming pool is new to me. However, on June 1, 2008 Johnny Jackson of Charleston, S.C. died while napping more than an hour after returning home from the pool with his mother. His death appeared to have been caused by a delayed reaction to aspirating a large amount of water while swimming Medical examiners have found that 15% of drowning fatalities are dry drowning victims whose respiratory distress comes after an incident in the water If someone has been involved in a drowning or near drowning situation, they should be evaluated by a physician Sometimes people may think they are ok, but they are not. Keep an eye on your children while they are swimming and having fun outdoors

An estimated 2 4 million people in the U.S. suffer eye injuries every year, most of them during the summer The least appreciated eye injuries can come from summer ’ s main attraction the sun. Ultraviolet rays can cause sunburned corneas, eyelid cancer as well as increased risks of eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration. These diseases may not show up for a long time and you might not even know you have it.

Enjoy your spring and summer. Drink plenty of water so your body will not be dehydrated during warm summer days. Limit your time outdoors during extremely warm day and maintain your energy level by limiting your intake of fat and sugar by focusing on eating more fruits and vegetables And most of all, have a healthy, happy and fun time.

Sandi Y Squicquero M Ed, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor who works out of the Medical Hypnosis and Counseling Center at 1180 Main St., Suite 5B in Windsor. She has more than 30 years experience as a counselor and is board-certified in medical hypnosis.

As spring gets closer, local farmers markets will be showcasing a variety of fresh-cut flowers to spruce up your home (Greeley Tribune file photo)

BY TAMARA MARKARD

AVIS SKINNERAND VEX ROBOTICS MAXIMUM OUTPUT TEAM

The future of a community lies in its youth As elders pass on and leadership roles are handed down to the next generation, it’s the young people that will shape the future of a community as well as the nation

Some of these young men and women are athletes and musicians, while others are making waves in the world of academics and community service No matter what their achievements, they all help shape our community one way or another Each month, MyWindsor will feature two students from Windsor high schools for the Faces of the Future feature

If you know of a high school student that would be a good candidate for the Faces of the Future feature, send their name and contact information to Tamara Markard at tmarkard@ greeleytribune com

This month, MyWindsor introduces readers to Windsor High School’s Avis Skinner and the Vex Robotics Maximum Output Team.

AVIS SKINNER

Year in school: Sophomore at Windsor High School

What is your favorite subject in school and why? My favorite subject in school is my art classes, particularly ceramics. I’m in Ceramics 3 at the moment I love to have a creative and controlled way to be messy. Clay is also a very forgiving medium, it can be used and used What clubs, sports and other extracurricular activities are you a part of? I am a part of the theater program where we just produced “Chicago Teen Edition ” How has being part of sports, clubs and/or other extra curricular activities helped shape your high school career? Being a part of a club has really helped me meet more people and it has created more opportunities Being involved in art truly helps me

find myself and a place where I can be creative and relax

What are some of the goals you have for your high school academic career? One goal I have is I hope to qualify for National Honor Society. What are some things you would like to see changed in your community? I would love to see more art around the community and in my school One thing, specifically at my high school, I would like to see changed is a empty pond area that gets very muddy, icy, wet, etc. This is a high traffic area during lunch

What are some of the things you enjoy most about living

From athletes and musicians to class presidents and stand-out scholars, the youth of Windsor play an important part in the future of the community

Windsor High School Sophomore Avis Skinner (Tamara Markard/Staff Reporter)

and going to school in Windsor? I enjoy living in Windsor because it’s not to large, but not too small I love how supportive the community can be

What are your future aspirations? I have so many I don’t even know what to truly pursue! My go to answer is I would love to be a wildlife photographer

and any other costs that may pop up

VEX ROBOTICS MAXIMUM OUTPUT TEAM

The VEX Robotics Maximum Output Team is a group of high school students from Windsor comprised of Bryce Adair, Kendall Albertsen, Ethan Gopaul, Emma Gopaul and Johnathan Southam

The group has persevered through challenges including getting a late start to the robotics season after a tragedy struck the team’s owner and captain.

Despite their late start, the team has worked to create one of the best bots in the state and at various competitions

They were honored with the Excellency Award and Judges Award at competitions as well as placed third in the Skills category at the state competition

The team’s hard work and dedication has earned them a place in VEX World

Robotics Championship competition

April 25-May 4 in Dallas, Texas.

The competition, presented by the Northrop Grumman foundation, brings together the top VEX IQ Competition, VEX Robotics Competition and VEX U teams from across the U S and around the world to showcase their work and compete against each other for titles.

To learn more about the VEX World Robotics Championship, go to www. roboticseducation.org.

With the team not being funded by a school or organization, footing the costs to attend the national and world competitions is up to them and their family

Christina Adair, mother of Bryce Adair, has set up a GoFundMe page for the team to help cover costs associated with transportation, fees, hotel and food

“We are asking for your donation to help make it to these competitions,” Adair wrote on the team’s GoFundMe page “They have worked so hard and I would love to see them compete against the best teams around the world!”

Their goal is to raise $5,000 and as of March 26, they have received $1,535. The team has received donations from $5 up to $500 from family, friends and community members

To learn more about the VEX Robotics Maximum Output Team, make a donation or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, go to https://www gofundme com/f/maximum-output-vexrobotics-team.

The Team from left to right: Emma Gopaul, Bryce Adair, Ethan Gopaul, Johnathan Southam and Kendall Albertsen

(Courtesy/VEX Robotics Maximum Output Team)

Custom

BY ANDY STONEHOUSE

for Spring

f you ’ ve been cruising modern housing developments in Northern Colo-rado, you ’ ve likely noticed a certain sameness, espe-cially when it comes to telling one home from the other And while the details are crisp and modern, they might leave you feeling a little cold

Nowadays, it’s custom details that really help make a home stand out from the crowd, and they’ve become a leading trend in home improvement adding individuality to a new home, as well as dynamically upgrading an older home

For owners looking to substantially elevate their living space, either with

hopes of adding to its resale value or simply to make it a more pleasant environment, a variety of local service professionals can help provide some customized touches.

One-of-a-kind railings and ironwork

It’s unlikely that a typical modern home features the work of an old-fashioned blacksmith, a craft that combines an eye for detail with traditional methods going back centuries.

But if work from custom railings to ironwork enclosures for fireplaces seems like it would be ideal for you, Otto Engel, owner and head blacksmith at Berthoud’s Innovation Forge, can design and deliver absolutely one-of-a-kind pieces

“At Innovation Forge, we strive for precision and accuracy in every project, which is why every piece is hand-crafted by our skilled blacksmiths,” Engel says. “More importantly, we offer the ability to have full

customization of many types of metal parts, from bronze to high-carbon steel.”

Engel is uniquely qualified for the job, with extensive training in blacksmithing that’s led him to become a certified national instructor with the Artist-Blacksmith’s Association of North America After studying welding at Front Range Community College, Engel a native of Estes Park got a degree in forged architectural ironwork at the American College of the Building Arts in Charleston, S.C. He also attended the artist blacksmithing program at England’s Hereford College of Arts, and followed that with internships at a variety of local design and jewelry businesses.

Engel says that experience gives him plenty of different ideas when it comes to designing and forging truly customized architectural pieces for local homes, using fire and hand tools for the work By forging each piece for a customer, that also adds to the strength and durability, and means a mixture of shapes and designs you won’t find in other metalwork.

There’s a real artisanal quality to his products, as

well, from tree branch-infused railings to intricate detail work and fixtures. Innovation Forge’s creations can also be scaled to any application, from a small fireplace to multi-level staircases

Customized shower enclosures set a home apart

If you ’ ve lived in homes where the shower stall is a plastic nightmare and the glass doors hardly work, you ’ re not alone. And those replacement shower and tub doors you’ll find at big box stores only make your bathroom look the same as everyone else’s

Scott Parsons, the third-generation owner of Loveland’s Handy Glass Inc , can come to the rescue with an entirely customized glass enclosure for showers and tubs of any size. Especially homeowners who’ve decided to make the tub and shower a standalone showpiece, rather than that cramped, traditional enclosure from years gone by.

“We’re able to close off the front and side walls with clear glass that’s all custom sized and measured by us, ” Parsons says “There’s a wide variety of hardware types

Lookingtoaddsomeone-of-a-kindfeaturesandfinishestoyourhome?Considerauthentic, blacksmith-craftedironworkrailingsortotallycustombathandshowerenclosures

A custom bathroom redesign (Courtesy Handy Glass, Inc.)

A custom front porch railing (Courtesy Innovation Forge, LLC)

and styles available, as well as sturdy sliding doors.”

With baths and showers becoming larger and wider, Handy Glass can accommodate a range of styles, including open, locker room-styled designs, roll-in and handicap-accessible showers and every variation of swinging doors. He’s even had clients create nine-foottall floor-to-ceiling glass in their homes; the objective is making everything more open and accessible, but still keeping water off the floor.

Parsons’ grandfather opened Handy Glass in 1960, and they continue to do in-house window and screen repair, as well as commercial glass work and auto glass.

Indoor Air Quality

Air Quality is always a concern in Colorado. From pollutants and allergans to smoky summer air, creating good breathable air space within a home may be a priority. HVAC companies like McCreery and Sun in Greeley offer many options to choose from. You may want something portable that you can move with you from room to room if you have a smaller space or rent your home. These units can be moved from home to home as well. Those who want to install systemic air quality control might find it worth

while to ask about in-duct air filtration or air purification that use filters or even UV exposure to clean the air you breathe. Ask a professional for advice on the best solution for your space.

Smart Security

If you ’ re concerned about security, smart cameras have come a long way. You can subscribe to a security monitoring service. But you also have the option to install smart cameras that do not have monthly fees. Most can be accessed from a control center in the home or from your smart phone or tablet

You want any smart security system to detect motion and sound for the best coverage. They should also feature night vision and 1080p resolution. A few well placed cameras will give you real-time visibility of your property and increased safety for your family.

Smart Home Services, serving the Front Range and beyond can help you assess your property and determine the number of cameras needed and the best locations for them for the most coverage. They’ll install them and walk you through using them as well.

If you ’ re interested in upping your customization game, contact one of these local contractors:

BY LINDA THORSEN BOND

STEPOUT YOUR BACKDOOR

If you’re looking for a new lease on the life of your home, just step out the back door. Blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors is a major trend this year, so why not use the space you already have? You can trick out your patio to add space, usefulness and fun to your house.

C2RS Contracting project manager Mike Bailey sees this as an evergrowing movement as the demand for more livable space increases. He said, “There are some beautiful extensions being created as people discover new ways to use their outdoor areas. Things like outdoor kitchens, pergolas, backyard bars, and new ways to heat and cool outside are possibilities.”

The biggest outdoor space Bailey has helped create is a two-story pergola on a ranch.

“It was a 2,000 square foot pergola with two tiers,” he said. “It really fit the aesthetic on the ranch. The owner wanted it to reference the lines of the barn. It had a vaulted ceiling in the top tier The rancher planned it so someday his daughter

can get married in it Of course, she’s only 17 now but he’s thinking ahead!”

Bailey has been creating outdoor kitchens. “People want cool cooking areas outside, with smokers and undercounter refrigerators. That’s one of the more affordable additions. We encourage people to use electric appliances because they’re efficient and safer With gas appliances outdoors, people sometimes leave them on even a month before they catch the bill And that can be really expensive.”

Outdoor bars are also trending. “This is a huge trend and there’s a lot that goes into it. One of the toughest is creating an outdoor sink because it requires plumbing adaptations,” he said.

Outdoor seating for entertaining includes fire pits for cooler weather, fans for summer, patio coverings, elegant lighting and pergolas (although not usually two-story ones).

Although there are requests for big accordion-style doors leading to the patio area, Bailey said that they are

very expensive and the structural renovation may be extensive. The wind load in this part of Colorado means that a full renovation may be required to handle the wind load.

“The accordion doors to the patio are extremely beautiful, people really have to understand that the really good brands are a major consideration to their budget,” he explained.

People usually request that the new outdoor areas are as big possible, and Bailey said space and budget constraints are the biggest consideration.

The most important consideration is the space required Older homes may have more accessible space, and newer construction has less space between neighbors. “I grew up on a farm where the nearest neighbor was six miles away,” Bailey said. “Now some neighbors are 10 feet or 20 feet off each fence. There’s less and less space outdoors and we can only put so much in that space.”

He said, “No one ever really wants to tell their budget, but we need to have a relationship built so that we

A back yard pergola designed and constructed by C2RS Contracting (Photo courtesy C2RS Contracting)

know how far this amount will go. People need to be up front and honest with themselves and their contractor I tell people ‘There will always be a surprise and a delay, so we need to budget for that. The manufactures are still trying to get back on track and nobody wants a delay but that happens.’ You need to pick a person you want who understands what you need. Remember that the right equipment you put outdoors is the most expensive because it has to be rated for outdoors. We want to build it to last a lifetime, not just a season or two.”

C2RS Contracting, 970.590.8298, 3654 Brunner Blvd., Johnstown, http://www.C2RSContracting.com

construction. We believe in

satisfaction and provide quality

services resulting in a superior finished product that becomes a profitable investment for your future!

IDEAS FOR

BY BRITTANY ANAS

When you think of green renovations in your home, your mind may leap to the big-ticket items like solar panels and EV charging stations But whether you ’ re making over your kitchen or a bathroom (some of the areas that have the biggest returns on investment), there’s some eco-friendly steps you can take by either making use of what you already have or investing in materials that are built to last for generations to come

According to a home improvement trends survey from LightStream, a consumer lender, 93 percent of home-

owners see the benefits of undertaking renovations that have positive impacts on the environment

With Earth Day approaching on April 22, 2023, we asked some local renovation experts about trends that are both stylish and sustainable.

Here’s some ideas for sprucing up your home in an eco-friendly way:

Update Your Kitchen Cabinets

Your cabinets can have a major impact on your space. If you have existing cabinetry that’s in good shape, but perhaps a little out of date, you can

update them by replacing the door and drawer fronts or changing out the color of the cabinets, says Ethan Hall, owner of NHance of North Colorado.

N-Hance works with specialized, hazard-free chemicals to first clean the cabinets and frames.

“N-Hance can ‘refresh’ the stain and fix minor damage if you like the color of your cabinets if they are in good shape,” Hall says “We can also darken or even lighten stain colors or paint over stains for a complete transformation.”

If your cabinet and drawer fronts are not in good shape or in a style you don’t like, the team can order brand new fronts in any style you would like and then finish your existing cabinet boxes and the new fronts to match, he says.

Painting cabinets can be a major DIY task when you factor adequate prep and drying time, but NHance’s system quickly cures the finish with ultra-violet lights. The average kitchen cabinet refresh, stain or paint job is completed within five to seven days, Hall says

Keeping Some of Your Bathroom Fixtures

The team at Re-Bath Northern Colorado gives customers the option of reusing some of their existing fixtures, whether that’s a vanity or toilet or, less

Unless you want to change your kitchen layout completely, N-Hance’s cabinet refinishing process could be the perfect solution (Courtesy N-Hance of North Colorado)

often, a tub or shower base so long as there isn’t rust, cracks or stains

Most customers reach out because their existing wet area which includes the tub, shower and surrounding areas has been compromised with deterioration of grout, improper drywall installation, cracks or leaks. (Leaking fixtures, by the way, can cause lots of water waste and cause you big bucks on your water bill)

Re-Bath’s replacement products provide a long-term solution, and the company warrants its DuraBath products for the lifetime of your primary home

Some trends that the team is noticing include cleaner looks trending toward mid-century styles and integrating modern LED technologies in lighting for dimming and motion activation. Black-and-gold fixtures and primary color vanity cabinets, especially dark blue, are also hot right now

“We are also seeing shower wall patterns in hexagon, chevron, pickett, fish scale, and arabesque,” says Jermy Whaley, co-owner of Re-Bath Northern Colo-

rado “Re-Bath is in process of rolling out new patterns for the DuraBath line to be in-step with these trend demands ”

Refinish Your Countertops or Tile

Love the countertops or shower tiles you already have? You can make them look new again by working with Miracle Method Surface Refinishing

Not only is refinishing a sustainable option, but it can also save you time (no need for a demolition) and money. The process costs 50 to 75 percent less than it does to replace your surfaces Miracle Method can refinish existing bathtubs, countertops, showers, floors and tiles to make them look and feel new

Notes

BY TAMARA MARKARD

With some much going on with life, work and home, it can be tough to keep up on the happenings in local government.

While you can stream Windsor Board meetings online at anytime, sitting through the program can be tedious and time consuming

MyWindsor’ s Notes from Town Hall can help you keep track of the top issues going on throughout Windsor without you have to do any of the leg work

On Wednesday, March 22, the Historic Preservation Commission hosted a community meeting at Peculier Ales to discuss the town’s historic preservation plan

Ron Sladek, president of Tatanka Historic Associates facilitated the

discussion, answering questions about the preservation process and learning which buildings are at the top of community members’ list to be designated as historic

The commission formally presented its preservation plan to the town in November 2022 and is currently offering residents and community members a chance to voice their thoughts and opinion through an online survey at http://bit ly/3FSKdOj

“We really need the public's’ input. It’s not our job to go into any community anywhere to tell folks here’s how we think you need to handle our historic preservation,” Sladek explained during the meeting “It’s really our job, my job, to listen to you, to study the community, to walk the community through the process Folks’ have all kinds of ideas about historic preservation ”

The commission’s preservation plan takes into consideration a variety of issues and topics in regard to each site considered for historic preservation.

“The Preservation Plan will serve as a guiding document for the Historic Preservation Commission and outline Windsor’s vision for the sustainable preservation of historic resources; set forth achievable objectives, goals, and policies; and create an action plan for implementation,” the commission’s website reports “In addition, the Plan will also serve as an informational resource for property owners and members of the general public to learn about preservation in Windsor.”

Some of the considerations include:

• Historic context and resources of the site

• Operating framework

• Surveys and assessments

• Preservation designation

• Incentive

• Outreach and education

• Preservation partners

The plan also features the commission’s vision, objectives and goals for the town’s historic buildings and sites. Currently, there are 12 locally designated historic properties in Windsor The properties are:

• Kaplan-Hoover site at the Poudre River Trail Corridor

• First United Methodist Church, 503 Walnut St

• Old Town Hall (Art & Heritage Center), 116 N. Fifth St.

• Cheese Factory and Creamery, 190 Ash St

• Windsor Railroad Depot, 100

Notes from Town Hall features some of the latest news from Windsor Town Board and commission meetings as well as press releases from public services and public safety (Greeley Tribune file photo)

Like many northern Colorado towns, the sugar beet industry played a major role in the growth and development of Windsor (Courtesy/Windsor Historical Preservation Commission)

N Fifth St , Unit B

• Park School Building (current Town Hall), 301 Walnut St

• Eaton House, 130 N Fifth St

• Halfway House, 33327 Weld County Road 15

• Halfway Homestead, 33327

Weld County Road 15

• Dickey Farmhouse, 33327

Weld County Road 15

• 423 Main St

• 408 Walnut St.

Any building in Windsor that is 50 years or older is eligible to be designated as a local historic landmark

Some of the feedback presented by the nearly 25 attendees included the possibility of designating Windsor Lake a historic preservation site.

“One of the questions I have for you tonight is, should the lake be landmarked as a historic resource?” Sladek said to the group. “If you were to landmark the lake as a historic resource, once it’s listed any changes would have to come before this commission for review ”

When asked what makes Windsor

unique from other towns and cities in the region, many attendees responded that its “small town Norman Rockwell” feel was definitely one of the characteristics that really make the town stand out Windsor’s location between Loveland, Fort Collins and Greeley as well as the people and the “walkable” access between downtown and Boardwalk Park were also some of the answers community members offered Sladek.

“Here you have tremendous access to a public amenity, which is the lake,” Sladek said. “There aren’t many places around that has a downtown right on a lake ”

The town’s Historic Preservation Commission is comprised of five members appointed by the Town Board Members of the commission work with property owners to identify and preserve historic buildings and resources The commission meets at 5:45 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at Town Hall, 301 Walnut St

“Here in Colorado we are a people of indigenous and immigrant backgrounds. All of us together has a heritage that links all of us together,” Sladek said “And our goal for preservation was established many decades ago here in Colorado for the purpose of honoring the past and the achievements of past generations in terms of what they built.”

To learn more about the Windsor Historic Preservation Commission, as well as view the town’s preservation plan, take a virtual walking tour of the town’s historic buildings and more, go to http://bit.ly/40D4Oy8.

Historic buildings take visitors back in time to a thriving agricultural community more than 125-years-old (Courtesy/Windsor Historical Preservation Commission)

YOUR NORTHERN COLORADO PATIO EXPERTS FOR THE PAST 50 YEARS

Windsor Middle School teacher is a nominee for a monthly award from the National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players Association for teaching STEM skills to her sixth graders.

Audrey Mead is one of 20 nominees nationwide in March for a most valuable teacher award, MVT, through the NHL and NHLPA’s Future Goals program

Mead is in her fourth year at Windsor Middle School and eighth year as a teacher She previously taught at Dios Rios Elementary in Evans and in the St. Vrain School District.

The NHL and the NHLPA have partnered to start the Future Goals program, which provides students with digital learning programs to “teach kids about STEM skills (sci-

VOTE FOR MEAD

STEM award from the National Hockey League

BY ANNE DELANEY

ence, technology, engineering and math) through the lens of hockey,” Mead said.

Mead teaches these concepts in a variety of ways in her classes.

“As STEM covers different aspects of science, I make sure to teach the 6th grade science standards providing a variety of choices for my students,” Mead said in an email. “I provide students with the option to showcase their learning through video creation and other means of technology at the end of each unit. We practice math skills daily, most recently when finding the density of everyday objects within the classroom, and making connections to how these skills can be applied to real life STEM is a really big umbrella of a variety of learning that occurs

daily within my classroom, and brings real world application into the classroom.”

The NHL and NHLPA worked with computer company EVERFI to create the Future Goals program in 2014 Everfi designs and develops educational software

Voting is now open for selection of the Most Valuable Teacher for March Go to futuregoals nhl com/most-valuable-teacher-program to vote.

The teacher selected as a finalist will win an NHL club jersey and a $10,000 environmental sustainability grant for their school district The grant is provided by SAP, a software company.

The grand prize winner, among all teachers selected as teacher of the month, will receive an additional $20,000 for an environmental sustainability grant

“I think that’s huge being able to give back to the school district and the kids,” Mead said “It’s because of my kids. They’ve been working hard. Being able to represent Colorado and Windsor, it’d be cool to put us on the map. ”

Windsor Middle School teacher Audrey Mead in the running for

Mayor’s Waterwise Challenge Kicks Off April 1 in Windsor

BY TAMARA MARKARD

Mayor Paul Rennemeyer is inviting all residents to join the Mayor’s Waterwise Challenge beginning April 1 through April 30.

As Northern Colorado continues to grow, the demand for a secure and resilient water supply grows as well Water conservation is a vital part of assuring that water supply remains reliable

The Mayor’s Waterwise Challenge encourages residents to explore the community in search of the “Windsor Water Droplet” image. The image is hidden in 20 different waterwise locations around Windsor such as parks and facilities

“The goal of this contest is to raise awareness

about water conservation and to make it a part of our everyday life,” Rennemeyer said “Reducing the amount of water you use lowers your utility bill and preserves a limited resource for generations to come By participating and learning about how Windsor is taking steps to conserve water, we hope it inspires you to take those steps in your home or business as well ”

The scavenger hunt will also include one gold droplet, one silver droplet and one bronze droplet for participants to seek out

Once participants come across a droplet, they will need to snap a photo of the droplet and submit their photo via a QR code at the location.

The first person to locate the gold droplet will win a smart sprinkler controller with free installation from Windsor’s Water Conservation Technician, while the winner of the silver droplet will also win a smart sprinkler controller, but no installation. The first person to find the bronze droplet will be awarded with an ultra-high efficiency toilet

The runner-up who finds the most number of blue droplets will receive a reusable water conservation bag filled with fun swag and gifts

To learn more about Windsor’s water efficiency programs, go to windsorgov.com/Efficiency.

April 23: Shelfie Sunday

April 24: Fandom Day

Show

April 25: Tropical Tuesday

April 26: Western Wednesday

April 27: Throwback Thursday

Libraries

April 28: Favorite Book Character Day

April 29: Superhero Saturday

pecial Olympics

RE FOR THEPolarPlu g

BY TAMARA MARKARD

REGISTRATION OPENS FOR THE 2023 SPECIAL OLYMPICS COLORADO EVENT

Colorado has put out the call to f fans of freezing teemperatures to sign up for the 2023 Polar Plunge, set for 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 15 at Boardwalk Park, 100 N. Fifth St., Windsor. The annual event, hosted by Westerra Credit Union and sponsored by Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply, gives community members of all ages the option to participate in a 5K run/walk, plunge into the chilly water of Lake Windsor or, for those weekend warriors, take part in both

The Polar Plunge series raises money for nearly 16,000 Special Olympics Colorado athletes Funds raised from the events across the state help the organization provide sports, education and leadership programs to athletes for free

“Polar Plunges are a vital part of our organization They allow us to support our athletes throughout the year, ” said Megan Scremin, Special Olympics Colorado president and CEO “Together with our awesome sponsors

and the community, we are excited to make a bigger splash than ever with the 2023 Polar Plunge season ” Programs provided by Special Olympics of Colorado greatly impact and enhance the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing them with tools to build their confidence and self-esteem

All ages of adults and kids are encouraged to form teams to participate in the event Team themes and costumes are highly encouraged. Individuals can also participate in the run/walk and plunge

To participate in the plunge, each adult on a team must raise at least $80, with students or Special Olympics Colorado athletes needing to raise at least $50 each Plungers

will receive a long-sleeve T-shirt and access to event vendors providing free food and swag

For folks only participating in the 5K run/walk, they will need to raise a minimum of $35 per person and will receive a pair of mittens as well as access to event vendors, free food and swag

Those wanting to go the extra mile and participate in both the 5K run/ walk and plunge will need to raise a minimum of $115 per adult and $70 per student or Special Olympics Colorado athlete

And if you ’ re not interested in running, walking or freezing, you can still make a donation to the organization and come watch the fun.

Of course, the more money raised the better, so start your fundraising efforts early.

An After Splash Bash presented by Smile Generation is scheduled to take place from noon to 4 p.m. at Peculier Ales, 301 Main St.

For more information, go to www specialolympicsco.org.

Kurt Kandler, left, Kipp Powell, center, and Patrick Rosen, right, embrace the freeze for a good cause in 2021. The 2023 Polar Plunge is set for Saturday, April 15 in Windsor. (Alex McIntyre/Greeley Tribune Staff Photographer)

Weld RE-4 School District HIRES TWO PRINCIPALS For New Elementary Schools

RAINDANCE

Acurrent administrator in the Weld RE-4 School District and a former administrator in the system have been selected as the principals of two new elementary schools in Windsor

Shelly Butcher and Sheila Bowman will begin their roles later this year, leading Peakview and RainDance schools, respectively, according to

LED BY PAST AND CURRENT DISTRICT ADMINISTRATORS

BY ANNE DELANEY

a post on the Weld RE-4 website

The schools will be built with funds from the $271 million voterapproved bond measure passed in November. Construction is expected to begin later this year The schools are scheduled to open in fall 2024.

Butcher is the principal at Tozer Primary School, a role she’s held since 2014 She’s also worked

as assistant principal at Rice Elementary School in Wellington in the Poudre School District and as a teacher at various elementary grade levels also in Poudre schools.

Bowman is the principal of the Greeley-Evans School District 6 Online Academy in Greeley.

Before joining District 6, Bowman was a principal for Weld RE-4’s Inspire Online School as well as an instructional technologist and fifth-grade teacher in the district She was District 6’s administrator of the year in 2022.

Butcher and Bowman will begin their work at the elementary schools

6 Chief of Communications Theresa Myers said Tuesday the district plans to replace Bowman as principal of the online academy There is no timeline for filling that position at this point.

Butcher earned a bach-

July 10 The women will work through the 202324 school year to prepare for the opening of the buildings. This work will include extensive community engagement, according to the district.

Greeley-Evans District

elor’s degree in human development and family studies from Colorado State University, a master’s in education from Regis University, and an educational leadership endorsement from Western Governors University

Bowman earned a bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies from Colorado State University and a master’s in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Northern Colorado.

Weld RE-4 School District serves students in Windsor, Severance and west Greeley

AND PEAKVIEW SCHOOLS WILL BE

Sheila Bowman is the new Principal of RainDance Elementary School (Courtesy/ Weld RE-4 School District)

Shelly Butcher is the new Principal of Peakview Elementary School (Courtesy/ Weld RE-4 School District)

Where does consent begin and end in relationships or does it ever end?

That is the question that Windsorbased film writer and director Ben Hess is looking to address in his upcoming short film project, “Head ”

The film is based on real events and tells the story of two college roommates, Jeremy and Eric, who over a semester become more than just friends

However, things take a turn for the worse when Eric’s bigoted upbringing rises to the surface after an incident where boundaries are crossed.

Hess describes the film as “part dramatic love story, part cautionary tale” that delves into what happens in a relationship “when trust is broken, consent is questioned and forgiveness seems impossible.”

“This is a short that tackles some social issues The crux of it is around consent sex assault, essentially,” Hess explained. “It’s a very delicate topic and I am trying really hard to be as conscientious as I can about how it is going to be presented and all that.”

While the film will address a few different issues and questions, the main focal point is: Does consent end when two people enter into a relationship?

BEN HESS Windsor’s

embarks on new

film

tackling the question of consent

“I’ve talked with people about this story and I’ve had people say ‘oh my goodness, that’s happened to me by my spouse or by the person I am in a relationship with and I’ve never thought twice about it ’ And a lot of people wouldn’t think about it,” Hess said “It’s this really intricate balance between where is the right and wrong ”

Another big part of the film’s message is about being true to yourself and accepting who you are

“Don’t let external factors play into that,” Hess said

While the subject of the film is big, the cast is small consisting of only three members

“We have a very inclusive and diverse cast and crew, who are solely focused on telling a sensitive story the right way, ” Hess said.

Erik Sokolowski, an actor from Loveland, is portraying Jeremy in the film Sokolowski has been working on his craft over the past nine years, performing on stage and in a variety of film pieces

Daniel Van Note, from Denver, will be playing the part of Eric in the short film. Van Note is well versed in the production of short films as he has written, produced, directed and starred in a number projects

Van Note’s latest short film, “Coming Out” won four awards at international film festivals

Abena is an American and Ghanaian model, artist and activist who has been cast

in the part of Rita Delaney Abena, who was born in Fort Morgan, can be seen in campaigns for Furniture Row, Crocs, Starbucks, Verizon, Tinder and is best known for her skin representation in the video game “Call of Duty II” as the character, Nila “Nova” Brown

Along with Hess behind the camera, Jamal Page is producing, while Eliza Miller is serving as assistant director Hudson Bloom is director of photography, Antonia Yanez is lead production assistant, Russick Smith is sound engineer and Becky Frazee is in charge of hair and makeup for the film

“Head” isn’t the first film where Hess has tackled sensitive subjects. His short film, “Maggie” addressed human trafficking in a gripping and gritty 20 minutes.

Hess partnered with The Avery Center in Greeley for their input and advice on the film. The center assists at-risk individuals who are currently experiencing or previously experienced commercial sexual exploitation.

“I knew I wanted to make sure it was true to realistic events,” Hess said “I worked with those guys to make sure I was staying true to some things that could happen in real life ”

The film garnered several awards, including the San Francisco Indie Short Fest 2020’s Best US Drama, Best Colorado Short as the 2020 Horsetooth International Film Festival and Best U S Director, Actor and Actress at the Venice Shorts Fest in October 2020

The cast of the upcoming movie, “Head,” from left to right: Erik Sokolowski playing Jeremy, Abena plays Det. Delaney, and Daniel Van Note is playing the role of Eric. (Courtesy/Ben Hess)

To check out Hess’s short films, music videos and other work, go to http://bit.ly/3xqCVNj.

For “Be Still,” another short film, Hess partnered with doula Julianne Curtis to create a moving and heartfelt piece about stillbirth and lateterm pregnancy loss.

The film follows “Caroline” and her partner through the delivery of a stillborn baby, the emotional ups and downs and their recovery process as well as the shame and embarrassment often associated with stillbirths and late-term pregnancy losses

“Our American culture is the worst. You can’t show your feelings, and how many women think that you are weak if you show your feelings?” Curtis said “It’s time to not keep everything in and have our time, and have our grief ”

Curtis uses the film to help

educate families and health care providers about late-term pregnancy losses and remove the stigma around stillbirths

As with “Maggie,” the film nabbed several awards at local, regional, national and international film festivals.

In 2021, Hess cast Greeley local Chloe Colleen with Patrick Call, Matison Card and Mikandrew for his short thriller, “Symptoms May Include Shortness of Breath ”

“Reading the script, I felt like there was a lot of underlying tones and there was so much to play with in the character,” Colleen said “Ben knows how to convey what he wants in an easy and reasonable manner Working with him was so much fun, but also challenging He challenged me to be my best self ”

Hess describes the movies as a “chance encounter that very quickly deconstructs into a bad situation ”

The title of the movie is nearly as long as the film, which clocks in at a mere 15-minutes.

Despite being short, the film seizes viewers’ attention and doesn’t let go until the last second. And as with any good suspense movie, there is a twist at the end

Upon its release, the movie received positive responses and earned a spot in the Another Hole in the Head film festival.

As with previous projects, Hess is looking to enter “Head” into a variety of film festivals.

“Our goal with this film is to reach as many people as we possibly can, ” he explained “This starts with a healthy film festival campaign. We feel it has the right ingredients to be competitive at higher-tier festivals ”

Queen The BeeGees Aerosmith Fleetwood Mac Simon & Garfunkel

ASK A FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Thursday, April 6, 3-7 p.m.

Windsor-Severance Library, Geneva Peak Room, 720 Third St.

The Windsor-Severance Library is hosting Ask a Financial Advisor from 3-7 p m Thursday, April 6 in the Geneva Peak Room at 720 Third St. The event, open to adults age 18 and older, will give participants an opportunity to chat with a volunteer financial advisor about a variety of topics such as debt management, college planning, risk management and more Registration is required and can be done by going to http://bit.ly/3letSMR.

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA

Friday, April 7, 10 a.m.

Community Recreation Center

Indoor Pool, 250 N. 11th St.

The 16th annual Easter Eggstravaganza hops into Windsor at 10 a.m. Friday, April 7 at the Community Recreation Center Indoor Pool,

250 N 11th St Children ages 3-5 years and their parents or caregivers can search for eggs in the center’s pool and gym as well as play games and participate in other fun activities The cost to participate is $7 per person. For more information, go to https://bit ly/3LsWrRk

BOOKMOBILE

Monday, April 10, 3 p.m.

Harmony Ridge, 36181 Kingswood Dr. The bookmobile is scheduled to make a stop at 3 p.m. Monday, April 10 at Harmony Ridge, 36181 Kingswood Drive All ages of adults, teens and children are welcome to come out and see what the bookmobile has to offer.

WOMEN OF WINDSOR FASHION

HAPPY HOUR

Friday, April 14, 5 p.m.

Just for Kix, 497 Apex Dr. Women of Windsor Fashion Happy Hour is set for 5 p.m. Friday, April 14 at Just for Kix, 497

Apex Drive. The event will feature a variety of clothing and accessories from local boutiques

Tickets are $40 per person and can be purchased by going to http://bit.ly/40svdib.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS POLAR PLUNGE

Saturday, April 15, 9 a.m.

Boardwalk Park, 100 N. Fifth St.

The Special Olympics Polar Plunge will take place at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 15 at Boardwalk Park, 100 N 5th St with a 5K run/ walk, plunge into Windsor Lake. All ages are welcome to come watch or take part in the activities For more information, go to https:// bit.ly/3J1VTwY.

WELD RE-4 AP ART SHOWCASE

Wednesday, April 19 and Friday, April 21, 12 noon-4 p.m.,

Art and Heritage Center

116 Fifth St.

Don’t miss your chance to see some amazing art by local students at the Weld RE-4 AP Art Showcase from noon to 4 p m Wednesday, April 19 and Friday, April 21 at the Art and Heritage Center, 116 Fifth St Admission is free and open to all ages For more information, contact the center at (970) 674-3502.

WIGWAM TEA ROOM EVENT

Saturday, April 22, 3 p.m.

Art and Heritage Center, 116 Fifth St. Wigwam Tea Room Event is scheduled for 3 p m Saturday, April 22 at the Arts and Heritage Center, 116 Fifth St. The program will feature author Nina Kunze as she presents her book, “Anna Wolfrom Dove and The Wigwam Tea Room,” that explores this remarkable woman and the contributions she made to Estes Park Admission is $10 per person and the event is open to adults age 18 and older For more information, go to http:// bit ly/3FmDXhB

AUTHOR VISIT WITH LIESL SHURTLIFF

Tuesday, April 25, 5:30 p.m. Pikes Peak Room, WindsorSeverance Library, 720 Third St. Join the Windsor-Severance Library of an author visit with Liesl Shurtliff at 5:30 p m

Tuesday, April 25 in the Pikes Peak Room at 720 Third St. The event is open to families with children ages 6-12 years and will feature a Zoom presentation with Shurtliff. Shurtliff will talk about her writing process as well as how she uses fairy tales to create her own unique stories. There is no cost to attend, however, registration is required. For more information, go to http://bit ly/42htNss

HOMESCHOOL DAY AT THE MUSEUM:

MAP IT!

Thursday, April 27, 10 a.m.

Windsor History Museum, 100 N. Fifth St.

Homeschool Day at the Museum: Map It! is set for 10 a.m. Thursday, April 27 at the Windsor History Museum, 100 N Fifth St The free program is open to kids from preschool through 12th grade and will focus on how historic maps helps up learn about our community’s history Participants will also be able to make their own map. Admission is free. For more information, go to http://bit.ly/40syIFl.

CELEBRATE INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE DAY

Saturday, April 29, 10 a.m.

Words of Windsor, 631 Birch St. Celebrate Independent Bookstore Day with Words of Windsor at 10 a m Saturday, April 29 at 631 Birch St , Unit B The event, open to all ages, will include exclusive books and literary items, cupcakes and more There is no cost to attend the celebration For more information, contact Words of Windsor at (970) 658-2669

Loveland Garden Tour & Art Show

Discover unexpected spaces as you explore “Hidden Gardens”

across Loveland

Tickets are $25/each (early bird price of $20/each until April 30th)

Tickets available at https://www.lovelandyouthgardeners.org/ garden-and-art-tour