RM Parent - April 2014

APRIL 2014 • RMPARENT.COM

Sack lunch shake up

Earth Day activities Eating clean Cyber safety Teaching empathy Family fitness

Special Section

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APRIL 2014

Departments

Special Sections

Perspective . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Program & Activity Guide

On being well—Let’s make the most of it

as we grow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Raising empathetic kids—promote kindness and care through praise and example

Family activities . . . . . . . 10 Families focus on the Earth—Earth Day 2014... from MAX to Bears to sustainability

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

Start family fitness early—make sure your kids get plenty of activity each day

Community news . . . . . . 14 Loveland Parks & Recreation Department Open Lands Division offers new environmental education program, Fort Collins focuses on mental health, drug-take-back day April 26, Larimer sheriffs offer stranger-danger warning

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

Start eating clean—choose nutritious alternatives for your family

APRIL 2014

Kids who play outdoors are more creative and imaginative, earn better grades in school, live longer and experience happier childhoods. Get some outside ideas.

And follow some tips to reduce the chance of injury for your family. Plus, check out our extensive listing of camps and programs for your children, including a story about special camps for kids with all abilities.

Be safe

AT CAMP PAGE 8

Camps for ALL ABILITIES PAGE 10

Play outside this SUMMER! PAGE 12

Program Directory

BY CATEGORY ALPHABETICAL PAGE 20 PAGE 22

SCHOOL

Calendars PAGE 52

LIST OF

Advertisers PAGE 54

Features 20

usting out of the B sack-lunch blues

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 0

Send your kids off with a creative and healthy school lunch. Include variety, try new recipes, and think outside the (lunch)box.

Time out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

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Events and activities for parents, kids and families Not a morning person—A day in the life of a 4-year-old

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Civics and cherry pies, Van Buren wins First Place in the 2014 Valentine Business Decorating Contest in the School Division, students at Centennial Elementary School created valentines for residents at North Shore Health and Rehab Facility, Garfield Elementary School hosted “Careers in the Arts” event and “Family Connect Night”

W ho’s lurking behind the screen?

Teach your children how to be safe on the Internet. Find out when you should be concerned and what you can do to educate yourself and your children.

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Stay-at-home mom enjoys weekly volunteering, calendar of events, PSD volunteer receives President’s Call to Service Award, Kaiser Pemanente Thriving Schools grant supports wellness in PSD, Early Childhood Education hosts open houses in April

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Kaiser Permanente grant to increase physical activity and wellness, Ground breaking held for new middle school

Lunchbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

ABOUT THE COVER: Ainsley, 9 months old, loves animals, bouncing, motor cross, singing and dancing. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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perspective On being well

Let’s make the most of it

S

omething about having a hint of spring in the air makes us think about healthy-living—you know, eating well, being more active outdoors. I think the sunshine helps. Kristin just showed me a survey from Gallup that ranks Fort CollinsLoveland third in the nation for well-being, right behind Boulder.

I know that I love it here. Andy, our son, lives in Olympia, WA, where it’s pretty much cloudy and chilly all winter, and apparently, people don’t make the best healthy lifestyle choices all the time. When he came back to visit over holidays, he was struck, yes, struck, by the general climate of health here. People were active and mindful of what they consumed—from food and drink to time spent in front of the screen. And, he noted, people were generally positive and happy. He’ll be back...right after he gets that degree.

This month, RM Parent has taken shape as a kind of well-being issue, too. First, we have the Program & Activity guide story about playing outside and how great that is for kids...well all of us really. I know I feel a lot better when I get outside on my bike or on a trail or just hanging out on the deck. And that’s the thing...we have so many great opportunities from parks to river walks to hikes in the hills.

Richard Keller (page 16) covers a new old trend of clean eating, which eliminates some foods and replaces them with healthful alternatives. Continuing on the healthful eating vein, Lynn Nichols (page 18) dives into and redefines the sack lunch. In our Healthy Living column, (page 12) Lea Hanson looks at how and when to include your kids in physical activities and what is appropriate for them.

Plus in school news, a couple districts report large donations to help fund well-being in the districts!

And what are you doing for the health of the planet? In Family Activities (page 10), Kim Lipker looks at Earth Day events for your family. On the keeping safe part of well-being, Kim Sharpe (page 20) examines Internet hazards...especially the contacts your kids might be making.

And finally, maybe at the root of all well-being is our ability to get along and understand each other. Lynn Nichols (page 8) looks at how we can promote kindness and care among our children by helping them to develop a sense of empathy for others.

I hope you will find a tidbit or two in here to grow your sense of well-being and that of your family.

Thanks, Scott

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APRIL 2014 • Volume 18, Issue 11 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com Calendar editor Aly Titterington calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt, Sharon Klahn COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, Richard Keller, Kim Lipker, Lynn Nichols, Kim Sharpe

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80521 Voice 221-9210 Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not consitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2014 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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as we grow

Raising empathetic kids

Promote kindness and care through praise and example L y nn U . N i c h o ls

E

mpathy—it’s one of those gritty, intuitive emotions that comes naturally—or doesn’t. Some kids instinctively internalize and feel other kids’ feelings. Others need guidance from parents or caring adults to recognize how another child might feel. The good news is that all kids are capable of empathy, whether it comes naturally or not.

The idea that empathy can be learned is supported by a study at the University of Wisconsin, Madison that showed through MRI scans that compassion can be learned in the same way that playing a musical instrument or perfecting a sport is learned. In the study, 32 subjects meditated on compassionate thoughts for family and friends.

Over time, the activity level in the insula region of their brains—the region that plays a key role in positive emotions— increased significantly. Not only did the study show that compassion can be learned and expanded upon, but that it also increases positive feelings in the giver, supporting the idea that it feels good to give.

One way to teach empathy is to point out to your child his or her own feelings and reactions to certain situations. Start by stating the obvious—if a friend gives your child a compliment, say, ‘it sure feels good to get a compliment, doesn’t it?’ By recognizing this feeling in himself, your son understands the joy of getting a compliment and is more likely to start giving compliments to others. The same is true for hurtful situations. If your daughter makes a birthday list and leaves a friend off because she happens to be mad at her that day, you can help her understand the consequences of her actions by reminding her of a time when she felt left out.

Another way to teach empathy is 8

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to praie your child when he does a kind act. Doing so gives the message that you value kindness. Parental approval is very important for kids. If you sense your kids are being kind to please you, that’s okay. Even if they do it for your attention, it’s forming a habit of kindness and over time, the rewards of giving will take over. You can also reward with special activities or treats. For example, if your kids are getting along great you can say: ‘I like the way you and your brother are helping each other and being kind today.

Let’s celebrate with ice cream (or a bike ride, etc.)!’ You are teaching that kindness brings reward—mostly internally but sometimes externally.

A part of learning to be kind is becoming tolerant of differences. In general, people are uncomfortable with things they are not familiar with. Someone who looks different might make people feel uncomfortable—not because they are racist but because they are not familiar with a person who looks or talks that way. Counter this reaction in your kids by exposing them to all kinds of people early on and throughout their child-

hood. You’ll help them see that different isn’t wrong, it’s interesting.

Consciously make kindness a part of your daily life. If your child plays sports, prompt her to pick up the cones or balls after practice. Even the simple requirement of saying please and thank you to anyone and everyone who helps them in their lives promotes kindness.

How about making kindness a game? Have a weekly ‘random acts of kindness’ contest where the person who reports the best act of kindness at the end of each week gets to choose a family outing over the weekend.

Of course, kids learn most from watching their parents in action. The best way to teach empathy and kindness is to simply model it yourself. Offer to pick up your neighbor’s papers while they are out of town or walk the dog of the elderly woman down the street.

Bring flowers or a card to a friend who needs a boost, hold the door for the person behind you at the bank and offer for someone to go ahead in the grocery line. If this is the way you live your life, so will your kids.

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family activities

Families focus on the Earth Earth Day 2014...from MAX to Bears to sustainability K i m L ipk e r

S

ustainable living and respect for the earth is alive and well in northern Colorado. This has always been evident in the rich farm and pioneer culture throughout the area. Urban gardening, backyard chickens, wind power, soap making, recycling, composting, along with other earthly pursuits has created a healthy-living renaissance of sorts.

With this in mind, it is time celebrate Earth Day and on Tues., April 22 we celebrate Earth Day’s 44th anniversary. First recognized in the 1960s, Earth Day grew from a grass-roots cause that eventually turned into an official holiday first observed in 1970.

According to EarthDay.org, more than one billion people around the world participate in Earth Day and 20 million Americans participate every year in week-long or day-long rallies, festivals and clean-ups across the U.S. In northern Colorado, the Sustainable Living Association (SLA) will host its Fourth Annual Earth Day Fort Collins from 11am-5pm on Sat., April 19 in Civic Center Park. This is the only event of its kind in the area this year. Earth Day Loveland was cancelled because their energy and resources are going to help recovering flood victims.

The SLA collaborates with the City of Fort Collins to provide interactive and educational opportunities for attendees.

Admission is free and everyone is asked to bring a non-perishable food item that the SLA will donate to the Food Bank for Larimer County.

Throughout the year, SLA helps promote the image of Fort Collins as a city that is active in sustainable practices. Earth Day Fort Collins is a great place to learn about what area businesses, local government, and nonprofits do to support the global environment and how to get involved.

Throughout the day, there will be a 10

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combination of activities and events that are family-friendly. Along with information booths and displays, you will find arts and crafts, live music, speakers, local food and a beer garden. At Earth Day Fort Collins this year’s theme will focus on the new MAX Bus Rapid Transit system slated to begin running in May. Their ultimate goal is to get everyone to recognize Earth Day every day and to make efforts toward conservation and preservation for future generations.

Colorado State University will host an Earth Day Festival at 10am -2pm on Tues., April 22 on the west lawn of the Lory Student Center. Any interested community members are invited to come and learn about the sustainability community at the university. Live music, baked goods from the bakeshop and much more are promised for this year’s festival.

Students across all of the school districts will observe Earth Day with a variety of projects that include planting flowers and tree seedlings on school grounds.

Many schools have special assemblies with guest speakers and some have special outdoor assemblies or school-wide parades.

Curriculum throughout the classrooms focuses on sustainability.

Earth Day rolls around every year and families know that this is a good time to adopt new, earth-friendly practices. Make Earth Day fun and full of animals. Have your family watch animals in your neighborhood and teach them that the animal kingdom depends on our good choices.

This year, Disneynature will release the movie “Bears” in theatres April 18 to celebrate Earth Day. If you see “Bears” opening week, Disneynature will make a donation to the National Park Foundation through the Disney Worldwide Conservation fund to protect wildlife and wild places.

From showing your children how to compost to teaching them how to use water wisely, you can help your family resolve to embrace Earth Day every day.

Visit online...

For more information go to www.sustainablelivingassociation.org www.nature.disney.com/bears www.EarthDay.org

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healthy living

Start family fitness early Make sure your kids get plenty of activity each day L e a Hans o n

H

ere in Colorado, we enjoy living in one of the thinnest states. Although our statewide obesity rate consistently hovers around only 20 percent, we cannot take our general thinness for granted. Childhood obesity is a direct indicator for obesity in adulthood. Obesity at any age leads to several health problems including diabetes, heart disease, and more.

Living in a place where we are surrounded by mostly healthy-sized people can make the importance of activity and fitness seem heavy at times. And, if we’re active parents, we may find ourselves chomping at the bit for the day when we can include our children in our activities and hobbies.

Can your child work out?

Unlike most of the reasons adults workout, such as to build strength, maintain cardiovascular health, and maintain weight, kids’ exercise is most beneficial for different reasons. Exercise for young kids (6 and under) should be geared toward building coordination, motor skills, and personal development such as confidence and learning to work in teams.

The most important cue for parents in determining when their child is ready for organized and structured exercise is their gut. If your gut tells you it is too soon for your child to work out, you probably are right. If your child isn’t interested in athletic training or doesn’t have appropriate supervision and guidance, then it’s probably better to hold off for a while.

Although there is no set age at which children should start to exercise, it’s never too early to encourage your child to be physically active. Physical activity does not, however, have to be in the form of a structured exercise program. Experts recommend different types of physical activity for different age groups.

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Organized sports Most pediatricians agree that children ages 6 to 8 are old enough to begin playing organized sports. Beginning in a noncompetitive league is best, but there is confidence gained by being a part of a team that works together to win or working hard to meet a personal goal in an individual sport. Balance teaching confidence and pride in success with pressure and stress.

Strength training According to MayoClinic.com, strength training can become a part of your child’s exercise program as early as 7 to 8 years of age, but only if s/he can follow instructions easily and is mature enough to understand the importance of performing the exercises correctly.

Your child should fully understand that strength training at this age is meant to improve muscle tone and increase endurance, not bulk up. Your child is not a miniature adult. Lifting weights won’t create bigger muscles in a child who hasn’t yet reached puberty, and using heavy weights can cause injury to muscles and tendons. A qualified trainer or coach should supervise your child’s strength training at this age.

How much exercise?

The National Association for Sport and Physical Education gives specific

recommendations for how much exercise your child needs.

• Toddlers should get at least 90 minutes of physical activity each day – 30 minutes of planned activity and 60 minutes of free play.

• Preschoolers need 60 minutes of structured activity and 60 minutes of free play each day.

• Children 5 to 12 years of age need at least 60 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week.

Remember, what counts as physical activity to a child differs from what we adults consider to be exercise. Kids’ regimens only need to be measured in minutes active. Meaning, not sitting.

Playtime at the park, riding a tricycle or balance bike, or helping with yard work are all great options.

Model an active lifestyle The most effective way to teach your child the importance of fitness is by modeling an active lifestyle. Pushing kids in strollers or allowing them to ride their bikes while you run, family bike rides and active hobbies such as skiing and hiking are great examples.

Make your exercise apparent to your children by pointing out that you do it.

Discuss when and why you exercise and make sure your kids know that you enjoy being active.

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community news

Making life better

Health and safety promoted in northern Colorado KIM SHARPE

W

e’re fortunate to live in a community that promotes health and safety. We have world-class hospitals, a wide variety of cultural and recreational venues to enjoy, high-performing schools and many professionals who care work daily to improve the lives of northern Colorado residents.

A few examples of ways families can learn how to be safe and healthy follow. Phoning 2-1-1, a free, information and referral service, can access a vast resource of similar information.

Get wild in Loveland The Loveland Parks & Recreation Department Open Lands Division is offering a new environmental education program for school and youth groups.

The Urban Wilderness Program will be hosted at Namaqua Park between April 28 and May 28.

The program focuses on Loveland’s urban open lands that provide habitat, migration corridors and wildlife viewing.

Participants will learn about cottonwood corridors, rivers and freshwater invertebrates, life zones, and animal adaptations to various habitats. There will be a guided walk and presentation about urban wildlife in particular. Students also will enjoy and learn from several hands-on activities, including an outdoor riverside lab station.

For more information or to sign up, please call Michele at 970-217-3173 or michele.vanhare@cityofloveland.org.

Fort Collins focuses on mental health The City of Fort Collins Human Relations Commission in Partnership, with the Poudre River Library District, is hosting eight Mental Health Informational Forums beginning in April 2014 and running through July 2015. Each 14

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two-hour forum is open to the public and will have an expert panel to discuss a variety of topics relating to mental health. All forums will be held at the Poudre River Library District Harmony Branch Community Room in Fort

Collins from 7-9pm as follows:

• April 8, 2014—Mental Health Disorders: Explanations for Everyone • June 10, 2014—The State of Mental Health in Northern Colorado: Major Issues and Community Resources • August 12, 2014—Suicide Prevention: Information and Resources • October 14, 2014—Mental Health Issues Impacting the Public Schools: Information and Resources • January 13, 2015—Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: Resources for Disaster Survivors, Veterans, Emergency Caregivers, and Abuse Survivors • May 12, 2015—Mental Health Issues

Impacting Homelessness, Joblessness and Poverty • July 14, 2015—Community Input: How to De-Stigmatize Mental Health Issues

For more information, contact Christine Hays at haysmith@frii.com.

Drug Take-Back Day set for April 26 Nationwide Drug Take-Back Day will be held on April 26, 10am-2pm. The event aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.

The service is free and anonymous.

There will be several locations set up throughout Larimer and Weld Counties. Additionally, the Fort Collins Police Services have announced a new, daily drug take-back program.

A secure bin for the collection of prescription and over-the-counter

drugs is now stationed at the Fort Collins Police Services lobby, 2221 S. Timberline Road, Fort Collins.

The bin is available Monday through Friday, 8am-10pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 8am-6pm.

Items not accepted either on Drug Take-Back Day or in the Fort Collins bin include needles and sharps, mercury, oxygen containers, chemotherapy/ radioactive substances, pressurized canisters and illicit drugs.

For a comprehensive list of drug drop-off sites, visit the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration website: www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/ takeback/.

Larimer sheriffs offer strangerdanger warning The Larimer County Sheriff ’s Office has issued a warning that as the weather begins to warm up and kids spend more time outdoors, it is good to remind them about “stranger danger.”

It’s normal for children to think that “bad strangers” look scary, like cartoon villains, but this is a false perception. Pretty strangers can be just as dangerous as the not-so-pretty ones. Children should understand that no one can tell if strangers are naughty or nice just by looking at them; they should be careful around all strangers.

On the flip side, children should be taught that sometimes they might have to seek help from a stranger and how to do that safely. If children need help—whether they’re lost, being threatened by a bully or being followed by someone they don’t know—the safest thing for them to do in many cases is to ask a stranger for help. Therefore, it’s important for parents to show their children examples of whom they can trust. They should point out people in positions of authority such as sheriff ’s deputies, police officers and firefighters, plus other people who are easy to recognize when they are working including teachers, principals and librarians.

Parents also should direct children to go to a public place to ask for help or

the homes of trusted neighbors.

Parents can help children recognize the warning signs of suspicious behavior, such as when an adult asks them to disobey their parents or do something without permission, asks them to keep a secret, asks them for help (adults should never children for help) or makes them feel uncomfortable in any way.

Additionally, parents should talk to their children about how to handle dangerous situations. One way is to teach them “NO, GO, YELL, TELL.” If children feel they are in a dangerous situation, they should say “NO!” run away, yell as loud as they can and tell a trusted adult what happened right away. Families also can establish the use of a code word to be used if someone other than a parent must pick up children from school or events.

Beyond teaching children how to recognize safe and unsafe strangers, and handle dangerous situations, parents can take the following precautions to help keep their children safe: Know where your children are at all times. Make it a rule that children must ask permission or check in with you before going anywhere. Give children your

work and cell phone numbers so they can reach you at all times.

Point out safe places. Show children safe places to play, safe roads and paths to take, and safe places to go if there’s trouble.

Teach children to trust their instincts. Explain that if they ever feel scared or uncomfortable, they should get away as fast as they can and tell an adult. Tell them that sometimes adults they know may make them feel uncomfortable, and they should still get away as fast as possible and tell another adult what happened. Reassure children that you will help them when they need it and that they won’t get in trouble for telling.

Teach your children to be assertive.

Make sure they know that it’s okay to say “no” to an adult and to run away from adults in dangerous situations.

Encourage children to play with others. There’s safety in numbers!

Teach children how and when to dial 911.

For more information call the Larimer County Sheriff ’s Crime Prevention Unit at 970-498-5159 or the Weld County Sheriff ’s Office at 970356-4000.

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nutrition foods with complex carbohydrates.

Bread, pastas and other grains are permitted as long as they aren’t processed or artificially enriched. A combination of all of these should be part of the three meals and two to three small snacks that occur throughout the day. Soda is not permitted on the clean eating program.

Instead, it’s recommended that two liters of water be drunk throughout the day.

Start eating clean

Choose nutritious alternatives for your family R i c h ard K e ll e r

M

any healthy eating trends have been proposed over the last 40 years or so. In the 1970s the Atkins Diet promoted eating red meat and dairy and avoiding carbohydrates and sugars as the way to lose weight. In the 90s the South Beach Diet asked people to substitute good carbs and fats for bad ones. In the early 21st century, health gurus promoted gluten-free diet plans to reduce weight as well as cure various maladies.

The current program out there is called Eating Clean. However, instead of a diet that offers a quick weight loss, clean eating is more of a lifestyle change that eliminates many foods and replaces them with nutritious alternatives. In addition, eating clean is not a fad. The recommendations given are from the diets of people who lived several centuries ago without fast food and microwavable meals.

Here are a few things about eating clean to take into consideration before you implement the plan in your own family.

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What is clean eating?

The basics of clean eating involve choosing foods in their most natural state. This means eliminating processed and packaged foods as well as products containing refined sugars and trans fats. Items in a clean eating environment should have no more than one or two ingredients listed on the label. Food with a longer list of ingredients is considered to be manmade.

Organic food should be purchased as much as possible. Products that absorb the largest amount of pesticides in their normal forms, such as apples and tomatoes, should be considered the priority over others to purchase organic. You can find out more on the Dirty Dozen fruits and vegetables at the Environmental Working Group website (www.ewg.org/foodnews/).

Eggs, meat and dairy products should also be considered part of this mandatory list.

What is permitted?

Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and

What are the advantages?

The biggest advantage is you and your family will flush your systems of processed food with the change in eating habits as well as the increased intake of water. This will give you increased energy and, thanks to the combination of protein, good fats and complex carbohydrates you take in each meal and snack, continued motivation throughout the day. In other words, the urge to take that 3pm nap may disappear.

Another advantage is the increased time you may have because you won’t visit the supermarket as frequently. This is due to the fact the meats, fruits and vegetables purchased need to be a pure as possible. This means growing your own produce, visiting a farmer’s market or shopping at a store such as Whole Foods.

What are the disadvantages?

You may not be shopping as much, but you could spend more money for organic produce and humanely raised meats. Of course, if you reduce your portion sizes and combine the items into different recipes, you may be able to stretch your grocery budget.

Another disadvantage comes in the form of creating different recipes for these items. Clean eating may seem unique at the beginning; however, you and your family may begin to get tired of eating the same things day after day.

Without a set of recipes to fall back on, you may fall back into old eating patterns. To keep eating clean it’s recommended that a number of recipes are prepared ahead of time, which allows you to go from freezer to oven or table when you aren’t sure what to make.

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“Batten down the hatches” usually means prepare for a storm or trouble. No storms or trouble were found at the Good Samaritan Society - Water Valley Senior Living Resort in Windsor.

Instead of stormy weather, an exciting and entertaining cruise ship ball was held for the 152 residents of this active senior living community.

Residents competed through trivia games and other activities to earn the honor of being seated at the Captain’s Table.

The Cruise Ship Ball was enjoyed by all the residents and the staff.

Residents dressed up in their finest clothing, and staff dressed up as Sailors, Cruise Ship Directors, 18

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Captains and even a “Blue Mermaid” was present. All danced to the music of the “Tom Allan Variety Band” Each resident attending the festivities were given a chance to spin a prize wheel, and everyone went home with a prize.

Throughout the year, dining management teams up with other departments with a cruise ship passport theme event. Each month, the U.S.S. Good Samaritan “docks” at a port, and the residents enjoy entertainment and cuisine customary for the celebrated country, right here in our restaurant-style dining room. Other events include “Paris, the City of Love” for Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day will be celebrated in Ireland, and in April, there will be a “Tulips in Holland” --PAID PAIDADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT--

passport event, celebrating spring and the country of Holland.

At the conclusion of the evening of entertainment, a “passing of the captain’s hat” ceremony was performed and John McElderry accepted his new role as Executive Manager at Good Samaritan Water Valley Senior Living Resort!

Call us to schedule your tour today at (970) 686-2743 and cruise on over!

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Bu

u o g n i t s

k c l a u s n e c h h t f to

blues

Send them off with a creative and healthy school lunch Lynn U. Nichols

T

he other morning I pulled out the bread to make my son a sandwich for lunch and he said, “Not a sandwich again! I have that every day. Is there something else I can have?”

It’s true. We’ve fallen deep into a rut with school lunches. You may relate as we descend the hill of another school year. Granted, he’s gluten-free so my challenge is increased but I really have no excuse. I am guilty as charged. It was time I dealt with it. I called Cecilia Jamieson, registered dietician with UCHealth’s Poudre Valley Hospital (PVH) in Fort Collins, for help. And help I got. She turned me on to a multitude of new recipes for sack lunches, all published on the hospital’s website (www.pvhs.org/community). She also set me straight on why variety is important—not just for our kids’ sanity, but for their health as well.

Variety, good. Same sandwich every day, bad If you are also guilty as charged when it comes to falling in a rut with your kid’s lunches, it’s time we got creative—and 20

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brought variety into our lives.

“Eating a variety of foods means you are getting a variety of nutrients.

Mix it up. Include items from different food groups, and pack in a rainbow of colors. Different colors in fruits and veggies are associated with different healthy plant chemicals, called phytochemicals, which protect against certain diseases,” Jamieson says.

To pack in nutrients and variety, think about the three main food groups: carbohydrates (breads, grains), proteins (meats, beans, dairy), and healthy fats (avocados, nuts, seeds).

Try to include food from at least two

of these groups in each lunch.

“When every meal is balanced with protein, complex carbs, heart-healthy fats and fiber from fruits and vegetables, you know you’re giving your kids a nutritious lunch,” Jamieson adds.

Out-of-the (sandwich) box ideas Now that you know what to pack, let’s look at some fun ideas. Yes, sandwiches are easy—that’s why they have been a lunch staple since the start of time. You don’t have to throw out the sandwich, just broaden the idea of it.

“Instead of bread, try bagel thins, tortillas that come in spinach, tomato/

Want a private consultation with a dietician/nutritionist?

Have you recently discovered your child has celiac disease or is sensitive to gluten or lactose? Are you or your child overweight or have Type 2 diabetes? Are you confused about what a healthy diet really is? The PVH dieticians are available for one-on-one consults. With a referral from a physician, consults and classes are usually covered by insurance. The health system offers both pre-diabetes and diabetes classes on a regular, monthly basis in Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley. An upcoming diabetes class will be held at Medical Center of the Rockies starting April 17. Call 970-495-8205 to schedule an appointment or sign up for a class.

basil, whole wheat, flatbread, pitas and crackers and fill them with anything from egg, tuna and chicken salad to nut butters—almond, cashew and peanut— or hummus, low-fat ranch dressing, vegetables, beans, and more,” she suggests.

Kids love finger foods and dips.

Think light ranch dressing and carrots, celery, pepper strips, snap peas, or cucumbers to dip. How about fruit slices— grapefruit, oranges, watermelon, grapes, apples—and yogurt? Try crackers with hummus, cheese spread or nut butters.

Also, don’t forget about salads—and think beyond the typical green salad.

Try pasta, bean or cucumber salad. Include grilled meat, cheese, fruit, nuts and seeds: “In one salad you can get several food groups,” says Jamieson.

Some of these ideas might take some thoughtful prep work on your part. If your schedule allows, make a giant fruit salad or potato or pasta salad on the weekend for your family to eat all week. Cut up veggies and fruits, or make cheese or meat cubes to have handy for packing—especially if you plan to have your kids help pack their lunch.

“Bring your kids grocery shopping sometimes to pick out new foods, and encourage them to prep food for lunches, and pack their own lunches. When kids are involved they are much more likely eat the foods they’ve helped select and prepare— and it teaches good life skills as well,” Jamieson adds.

Presentation is everything To win over picky kids, buy them a fun lunch container or small storage containers. Boxes with separate sections for different foods make eating more fun. Dips go in the small areas, veggies and fruits in another. Also, buy each of your kids a good thermos. It will help you get away from the cold sandwich as you fill it with leftover spaghetti, lasagna, stir fry, soups and stews that you can heat up quickly in the morning and keep warm until lunchtime. Thermoses can also hold cold delights, like smoothies and milk.

If packing meat, cheese, dressing or dips, keep them cold with a frozen water bottle or blue ice pack.

Hold the juice box Although really convenient, juice boxes and sport drink pouches are not a good part of a healthy lunch. You may be thinking, ‘juice is fruit, it must be good for my child!’ Sorry to say, you are wrong. Even 100-percent juice provides too many sugar calories and without the added fiber you get from actually eating the fruit itself.

“Obesity is on the rise in kids, and one identified culprit is sugary drinks— especially soda, but also juice and sports drinks. They provide more calories than kids need. Instead, try water, plain or fizzy, with just a quarter cup of juice or lemonade to give it a splash of flavor. Or if your child loves chocolate milk add a teaspoon of chocolate syrup to low-fat milk. That way you control the amount of sugar and calories she’s getting,” suggests Jamieson.

If you are used to packing a dessert—a cookie or candy bar—in every lunch, start cutting back from always to occasional: “It’s okay to put a treat in your child’s lunch every once in a while if it’s balanced with a healthy lunch and isn’t too high in calories. But I use that phrase ‘little treat’ carefully as they add up when used to celebrate everything from birthdays, good grades, haircuts and so on, resulting in unwanted weight,” she says.

The dieticians with UCHealth promote the 5-2-1-0 plan which suggests kids get 5 fruits and veggies a day, no

more than 2 hours of screen time, always 1 hour of exercise and 0 sugary drinks.

Good advice to live by.

UCHealth sponsored this article.

Recipes for success

Put together some healthful alternatives Bean and avocado wrap or pita 1 can white beans (such as navy) or garbanzo beans ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or to taste), preferably low fat or 2 percent cheese Diced red onions, to taste (2 Tbsp.)

1 avocado Cilantro to taste Lemon or lime juice 4 whole-wheat tortillas Mash it all together and spread on whole-wheat tortillas. Roll up.

Confetti Quinoa 1½ cups low-sodium chicken stock or water 1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed and drained ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 cup frozen chopped, mixed vegetables such as peas, carrots, green beans, corn Recipes courtesy of UCHealth’s Poudre Valley Hospital website. Find more at www.pvhs.org/healthy-recipes.

Beyond-the-sandwich shopping list Try these unique foods to spice up school lunches

• Flavored tortillas or whole wheat, bagel thins, pitas, flatbread • Chunks of turkey, chicken and cheese for cubing (to put in salads or include as finger food) • Fruits to dip: grapes, clementines, grapefruits, apples and flavored cream cheese • Veggies to dip: snap peas, cucumbers, carrots, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, cucumber and low-fat ranch dressing, hummus or prepared guacamole. Can also wrap in tortilla or put in pita.

• Fizzy water and pomegranate, mango or pineapple juice or lemonade for light mixing • Nut butters-almond, cashew, peanut • Salad fixings-green plus pasta salad, bean salad, potato salad, chicken-walnut salad • Refried beans, cheese, salsa to spread on tortillas for heating up at school • Whole-wheat crackers, sliced cheese and meat (home-made Lunchables with less sodium) • Lunch containers with compartments • Thermos • Small blue ice packs • Insulated lunch box/bag

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Who’s lurking

behind the screen?

Teach your children how to be safe on the Internet Kim Sharpe

T

he Internet makes a world of information available at one’s fingertips. People with access from their computer, smart phone or tablet can read about everything from what’s happening around the globe to how to build a potato bazooka to everything in between. Connecting with colleagues, family and friends also has never been easier given the variety of social networking and personal messaging options.

While all this connectivity increases knowledge and our social circles exponentially, it also can leave us and our most vulnerable citizens—our kids— exposed to strangers and dangers every hour of the day, every day of the year and in every environment imaginable.

According to the Fort Collins Police Department and the Child Advocacy Center that serves Larimer County, one in five kids have experienced unwanted sexual solicitation on the Internet. Only 25 percent of these kids told a trusted adult about the solicitation.

Sixty-four percent (64percent) of teens report posting personal photos on the Internet and 58 percent post personal information, such as their address and 24

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where they go to school.

“The hot topic right now is ‘sexting,’” says Fort Collins Police Detective Jaclyn Shaklee. “Kids are taking photos of their most intimate parts and sharing them with friends, boyfriends and girlfriends. What kids do not realize is that the production and manufacturing of these photos is considered a felony in Colorado. Then when these kids distribute the photos to other people, it’s an additional felony.”

Having a child get in trouble with the law for any reason is frightening enough, but perhaps even more unsettling are the consequences kids don’t think about. Shaklee explains that “The scary piece of manufacturing and distribution of these images and that kids do not realize where these images end up. Once they are out on the Internet, they lose control.”

Doug Birdsall, forensic interviewer with the Child Advocacy Center, says, “Perpetrators use social media to groom kids. It’s a way to communicate with kids that parents are usually not aware of. And kids no longer have to be home on a desktop computer to access the Internet; they can be anywhere. And

the ages of kids who use technology or have their own is getting younger and younger. There was a time when we saw only teens with cell phones, but that’s not the case anymore. Even young kids have their own phone or have access to friends’ phones and can access the Internet from anywhere.”

Birdsall says that CAC staff has spoken with some tweens and young teens over the last couple of years who have become involved in online communications with someone, which has led to nude or semi-nude photos being exchanged. These photos are then used by a perpetrator to essentially blackmail the child into sending more photos or engaging in more risky and damaging behavior online. Perpetrators often say something like, “if you don’t send me more photos, show more of your body, or do more degrading things in the photos or video, I will send what you have already given me to your family, your friends and everyone you know.” This can put the child in what they see as a no-win situation and may lead to them choosing to place themselves in even more danger.

When to be concerned Secretiveness is a primary warning sign.

Shaklee says, “If kids get to the point that they are more interested in communicating with people online and are secretive about who they are communicating with, it should be a worry.”

Birdsall agrees. “Parents should be mindful of whether or not a child is secretive about their communications.

If a family sits down at the dinner table and their child has to leave to reply to a text, monitor that. Every once in awhile, parents should take their child’s phone and check who they’re communicating with.”

Other signs a child could be in danger, include: • Receiving gifts from unknown persons through the mail • Making calls to unknown numbers • Distancing themselves from family and friends • Getting upset when he/she can’t get online • Minimizing their computer, phone or tablet screen when a parent enters the room.

Play it safe With this plethora of communication tools available, it is obvious that users of them accept inherent risks that jeopardize their private lives and personal safety—either knowingly or unknowingly. Some of the social networking sites, such as Facebook, have added privacy protection features that allow registered account holders to determine who can view the content of their pages. Even with safeguards like this in place, however, dangers still exist. That is why it is important to talk with your kids about Internet safety and monitor their use of technology.

“I think communication amongst families is vital to keep kids safe online,” Shaklee says. “I see a trend in parents who want to be friends with their kids and respect their privacy by not looking at their cell phone activity or snooping on their Facebook page. I believe that these avenues for socializing should not be a secret within families. Make your kids friend you on Facebook!”

The Child Advocacy Center re-

ports that, “tweens and teens who have been taught about Internet privacy are more likely to practice safer online behaviors.” The center also reports that, “parents have more influence than teachers and peers when educating about Internet Safety.”

Fort Collins Police urge parents to take the following steps to help minimize the chances of their child becoming a victim to online predators:

• Communicate. Talk to your child about sexual victimization and the potential of online dangers.

• Spend time with your children online.

• Establish rules for online use including blogging, instant messaging and chat rooms.

• Keep Internet-connected computers in an open area, such as the kitchen.

• Consider using parental monitoring and/or blocking software.

• Use parental control features.

• Find out what computer safeguards are utilized by your child’s school, the public library and at the homes of your child’s friends.

• Instruct your children to never: - give out personal information on-line; - arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone they met on-line; - post (or upload) pictures of themselves onto the internet or electronically send photographs to people they do not know; and respond to messages or bulletin board postings that are suggestive, obscene, belligerent or harassing.

Remind your children that whatev-

er they are told online may or may not be true.

Educate yourself, evaluate blogging services and see if they offer private or password protected blogs or “friends only” functions.

Review online “Personal Profiles” for instant messaging accounts, chat rooms and blogging websites.

Review your blogs and screen what kids post. Seemingly innocent information such as town name, school mascot or school name can provide unwanted information as to a student’s identity and location.

Education is the best defense To help parents become better educated about Internet safety issues, including Cyberbullying, revealing too much information and Internet predators, Fort Collins police host Internet safety presentations. The next class will be held on May 6, 6:30-8:30pm, at the Fort Collins Police Services Community Room, 2221 S. Timberline Rd. Families should select one session to attend. Family members will be divided into groups consisting of adults, 8- to 12 year-olds, and 13- to 18-year-olds for age appropriate presentations. There is no charge to attend.

Register by contacting Detective Shaklee at 970-221-6575 or jshaklee@fcgov.com.

The Greeley Police Department also offers Internet safety classes. For more information, contact the Neighborhood Action Team at 970-350-9659.

Web help for web safety To learn even more about keeping your kids and family safe online, visit the following websites: Federal Trade Commission — www.OnGuardOnline.gov GetNetWise — www.getnetwise.org Internet Crimes Against Children — www.icactraining.org Internet Keep Safe Coalition — www.iKeepSafe.org i-SAFE — www.i-safe.org LiveWWWires — www.livewwwires.com Microsoft Online Safety — www.microsoft.com/protect National Center for Missing and Exploited Children — www.netsmartz.org National Cyber Security Alliance — www.staysafeonline.org Microsoft Online Safety — www.microsoft.com/protect SafeKids.com — www.safekids.com Wired Safety — www.wiredsafety.org Web Wise Kids — www.webwisekids.org/

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COLORADO CHEER ACADEMY

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Global Village Academy announces new building for Southwest Ft. Collins Global Village Academy (GVA), a tuition-free international K-8 school, is finalizing plans for a new two-story facility to open in August on a 5.2acre site at the intersection of Horsetooth and Taft Hill road, according to school officials.

GVA, which is currently leasing classroom space in far southeast Ft. Collins, provides a unique program that enables each student to achieve very high levels of new language skills through immersion in English and a choice of Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, or French. The school is part of Colorado’s fastest growing network of public charter schools and has seen enrollment expand from 220 students to 2200 students on four campuses in the past six years. The accredited educational program also promotes cultural competencies and 21st century skills through its diverse staff of professional instructors from the U.S. and through-

out the world. Global Village Academy also provides bus transportation services enabling students throughout the region to participate in the language immersion experience.

Global Village Principal Russ Spicer said, “People are very surprised to learn that this is a tuition-free public school with a free full day kindergarten program. We anticipate a January lottery and are currently accepting applications for grades K-5 for the 2014 school year and for the feebased international preschool, which will serve 3 and 4-year olds with instruction in English and a choice of Spanish or Chinese.”

Parents wishing to apply, to visit the current school, or to learn more about the program can visit www.globalvillageacademy.org or email Assistant Principal Tammy Warren at twarren@ globalvillageacademy.org. The school

is planning its lottery for new students on February 6, 2014.

“This is an exciting addition to our regional educational options,” said Ray Martinez, former Fort Collins Mayor and president of the local GVA Board.

“We expect to serve up to 500 students in the 24,000 square foot first phase of this facility and we’re pleased that the diversity of our staff and students provides a unique educational opportunity.”

Planners, architects, and developers for the school are currently working through city and state approval procedures and are on schedule for the school to open in August. ************************************ Global Village International Learning through language and culture 555 W. 112th • Northglenn • CO 80234 www.globalvillageacademy.org 970-402-6898

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ClimateWise, Business Smart It’s all about the bike at Intel.

In all three of its northern Colorado locations — Fort Colins, Boulder and Longmont — biking to work is a big part of its corporate culture. Intel holds informational series to help employees learn about appropriate clothing, gear and how to commute during colder months when biking to work might seem like a crazy option.

On top of that, Intel provides information regarding the best and safest routes, including bike/bus combinations, and offers incentives such as free breakfast on Bike to Work days. They’ve even installed showers, free towel service and lockers in all their facilities to overcome the “too sweaty for work” concern.

“We’ve added covered parking right near the building’s entrance for bike commuters,” said Mark Driskell, commercial property manager at the Fort Collins facility. Out of 400 employees in the Fort Collins plant, 73 bike to work regularly. “We’re proud of that number.

Intel has about 350 buildings all over the country and we get to compare what other sites are doing, and we’re consistently ranked at the top. It encourages more employees to bike to work.”

As a ClimateWise Platinum partner,

have been retrofitted with all new,

Intel has been working for seven years

low-flow toilets, urinals and sinks. The

to address many issues that impact its

company also uses raw water from an

overall carbon footprint. A few years ago,

on-site pond in its irrigation systems

employees completely converted the

eliminating the need for potable water.

air handling system. They replaced an environmentally unfriendly refrigerant

From energy reduction practices in

system with one that operates using

transportation and more efficient

chilled water, which now cools over 90

cooling systems, to recycling and water

percent of the facility. Annually, Intel

conservation, Intel has certainly earned

saves about $70,000 on

its Platinum status. Ride on!

cooling costs.

“We just kicked off a new recycling

Mark Driskell, Intel ClimateWise Platinum Partner Photo by Cambon Studios

program,” explained Driskell.

“We’ve installed recycling stations with different hubs throughout the office area that encourage more filtering of the waste streams, including wet waste bins for kitchen waste.”

Over the past three years, 90 percent of the Fort Collins facility’s restrooms

Join ClimateWise, a free, voluntary City of Fort Collins program dedicated to helping local businesses and the environment.

(970) 221-6700 · fcgov.com/climatewise RMPARENT

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un F s ’ It shy l a r T a It’s cation du E s ’ It It’s the

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

(970) 498-5772 larimer.org/solidwaste

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thompson school district news Civics and cherry pies Kaleb Simington, $50 and a pie Mountain View High School: Skylar Aldridge, a pie

In celebration of February Youth Voter Month and President’s Day, the League of Women Voters of Larimer County sponsored their fourth annual Cherry Pie Contest for high school students in Larimer County. This year’s contest encouraged students to consider their future civic participation by offering a written submission. The essay question this year was, “How has an election or specific vote in U.S. history affected you?” Essays were due last month and the pies and monetary prizes were distributed to the students at schools during the week of Feb. 17.

The League of Women Voters received many thoughtful submissions from high school students in the Thompson School District. Students wrote about civil rights, Title IX, presidential elections, gun control, U.S. constitutional amendments 19 and 26, and more.

Many students received cherry pies from Perkins for their participation, while two top winners also received $50 from the League of Women Voters. Students didn’t require a teacher’s permission to enter, but teachers were encouraged to use the contest to supplement their curriculum.

Loveland High School: Aili Bundy, $50 and a pie Ian Myers, a pie Kelci Hartz, a pie Thompson Valley High School:

TSD athletes sign at colleges Thompson Valley High School athletes and their coaches celebrated the signing of “letters of intent” to compete at the collegiate level. Students from left to right: Blake Firchau: Football at Black Hills State, Hayley Berg: Track and Cross Country at Louisiana Tech, and Aidan Gipson: Football at Sterling College. In addition, two TVHS swimmers signed letters of intent in November; Marina Fonseca will swim at Grand Canyon University and Kelly Sheldon will swim at the University of Wyoming.

Van Buren wins First Place The Loveland Chamber of Commerce presented Van Buren Elementary School with a certificate recognizing the students and staff as the 1st place winner of the 2014 Valentine Business Decorating Contest in the School Division. The theme was a tribute to Dr. Seuss and reading.

Thompson School District’s Transportation Department captured an award for Honorable Mention in the contest.

Valentines delivered Ms. Cheese’s 3rd grade students at Centennial Elementary School created over

130 valentines for some of the residents at North Shore Health and Rehab Facility. After school one day, four students —Lauren and Alexa Seaman, Sophia Pancoast and Lauren Morby—delivered the valentines to the residents. The kids did a great job going into each room and wishing the residents a happy Valentine’s Day. They let them know that their 3rd-grade class made the valentines and said, “Happy Valentine’s Day” to over 130 people. The residents loved the valentines and appreciated the visit from the students. Centennial parent Sonja Pancoast helped with the deliveries.

Garfield Events Garfield Elementary School hosted

their “Careers in the Arts” event and “Family Connect Night” last month.

Careers in the Arts showcase different careers that involve the arts in some way and inform students about the possibilities that await them. This is the third year that the school has produced this event. In addition to the presenters, students attended an allschool assembly featuring “Oh HeckYeah!” a duo that created a large-scale interactive video arcade. The group spoke with students about how using their motivation, passion, and positive attitude will enable them to do things they never thought they could.

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poudre school district news Stay-at-home mom enjoys weekly volunteering time with her very busy family of five.

Her husband works from home and helps her balance her volunteer time.

McCarthy says, “I am fortunate enough to volunteer weekly in both my son’s and daughter’s classrooms, and I care for my niece two days a week. And, there is nothing like curling up with a good book! It’s a real miracle when I can actually finish one!”

Rebecca McCarthy is honored for her role as VBC for Riffenburgh Elementary School.

Poudre School District has over 20,000 volunteers, consisting of parents, grandparents, seniors and community members. Managing that many volunteers in 48 schools is quite a feat! Helping the PSD’s Volunteers & Partnerships office manage the multitude of volunteers at each school site is a Volunteer Building Coordinator (VBC). These dedicated volunteers donate many hours to ensure the volunteer program at their school is a success. Some have done it for many years, starting in elementary schools, and continuing in this volunteer position even after their children move on to middle school and even high school!

Volunteer Building Coordinator for Riffenburgh Elementary, Rebecca McCarthy, started this volunteer position in September of 2012, working alongside the previous VBC for training. She was very involved in the school prior to taking on this role. She was the PTO Secretary for four years, in addition to being a room parent for both of her 32

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children’s classes. McCarthy also serves as a member of the SAC team and is a DAB representative for Riffenburgh.

“I have been very impressed with the volunteers since I began volunteering. I constantly see people step up whenever the need arises. We have a great group of core volunteers who go above and beyond to make each activity successful, whether it is a classroom party or our Annual Walk-a-thon,” McCarthy says.

This year, they established a list of “On-Call Volunteers.” This list contains names of volunteers who are able to help out on short notice when they are low on volunteers for an event or find themselves “in a pinch.” This concept has worked great as it allows people the ability to volunteer, without the commitment of signing up for a yearlong project.

McCarthy is a stay-at-home mom and her spare time is limited. She does enjoy spin class at the gym, taking their 1-year-old dog for walks, and spending

PSD volunteer receives President’s Call to Service Award A Poudre School District volunteer recently received a prestigious Presidential award for his service to schools and other local agencies that benefit the northern Colorado community.

Longtime school district volunteer John Reid was honored as a recipient of the President’s Call to Service award. The most prestigious of the President’s Service awards, the Call to Service award recognizes volunteers who have served over 4,000 lifetime hours. Reid and other Call to Service honorees were recognized at the culmination of the RSVP Service awards ceremony on March 12 at the Lincoln Center in Fort Collins. Each received a pin, certificate and letter signed by President Obama.

Since 2001, Reid has served a total of 4,112 hours as an RSVP Senior Corps Member, logging 1,725 hours of these hours as a volunteer at Rocky Mountain High School, Poudre High School, Fort Collins High School and Lopez Elementary. Reid’s service has spanned beyond schools to other local agencies, including Columbine Health Systems, the Fort Collins Senior Center, the Larimer County Office on Aging, and Volunteers of America.

Carrie Olenick, volunteer project manager for Volunteers of America – Northern Colorado Services, nominated Reid for the award. “Since joining RSVP, His commitment to bridging generations informs his volunteer service; John is a

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almost 3 million Coloradans through dynamic, free health education theater performances since 1986. Kaiser Permanente is also a founding funder and continued supporter of LiveWell Colorado’s school-based health initiatives.

Last fall, Kaiser Permanente Colorado invited school districts in its service area up and down the Front Range to apply for Thriving Schools grants. A total of more than $1.4 million was awarded to 21 school districts representing 633 schools and more than 400,000 students and staff.

Learn more about Thriving Schools at thrivingschools.kaiserpermanente.org or @thrivingschools on Twitter. Visit www.kp.org/communitybenefit to learn more about Kaiser Permanente’s community benefit programs. leading example of passion and commitment for the oldest and youngest of our community,” says Olenick.

Kaiser Pemanente Thriving Schools grant supports wellness in PSD Kaiser Permanente and Poudre School District are pleased to announce new funding to help make good health a part of everyday life in schools. PSD’s new $100,000 wellness grant is part of Kaiser Permanente’s increased focus on school health known as the Thriving Schools Initiative.

Launched nationally by Kaiser Permanente in February 2013, Thriving Schools engages school communities to champion change by incorporating evidence-based, community health improvement practices.

PSD will use the $100,000 grant to support physical activity related to staff and student wellness including professional development, movement break videos, support for school wellness teams, bike fix-it stations at high schools, standing desks for employees and more.

“The Thriving Schools Grant is a wonderful opportunity to build and expand our staff and student wellness program at Poudre School District,” says Ashley Schwader, PSD wellness coordinator. “We look forward to offering programs that focus on physical activity and work towards supporting a culture of district-wide health and wellness.”

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“The link between healthy students, reduced absenteeism and stronger academic performance is well documented.

Thriving Schools offers us a unique and targeted campaign to work collaboratively with Colorado schools to advance health and improve academic performance,” says Donna Lynne, DrPH, president of Kaiser Permanente Colorado. “In addition, healthier schools cultivate a stronger Colorado workforce for the future.”

Research continues to demonstrate the link between academic achievement and physical activity. Children who are physically active have higher test scores and improved attention in class, decreased absenteeism and improved behavior, decreased stress and improved mood. Also, evidence suggests that healthier students are better learners and physical activity can improve student academic achievement.

Kaiser Permanente currently delivers care to more than 90,000 school-age children and 30,000 teachers and staff who spend the majority of each day on a school campus. The health plan has supported Colorado schools and school districts for more than 25 years to improve healthy eating, physical activity and school climates. These new grant initiatives will deepen and expand such established partnerships and programs as Kaiser Permanente’s Educational Theatre Programs, which has reached

Early Childhood Education hosts open houses in April Early Childhood Education will host more open houses for families interested in 3-5 Preschool programs for the 2014-15 school year. During the open houses, families can visit an ECE classroom and ask staff questions about the program and services.

Open houses in April include: 10am to 12pm, Friday, April 4, Kruse Elementary, 4400 McMurray Ave 1pm to 3pm, Friday, April 25, Rice Elementary, 7000 Third Street, Wellington Families may also apply for one of the program’s no-cost or tuition-based program options. For more information, contact the Early Childhood enrollment office located at 220 N. Grant Ave., or call 490-3204.

PSD Calendar of Events April 8....... 6:30pm, Board of Education business meeting, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Avenue.

April 11..... K- 12 Parent/Teacher Conferences, NO SCHOOL for students April 14..... K-8 Teacher Collaboration Day, NO SCHOOL for K-8 students April 22..... 6:30pm, Board of Education business meeting and work session, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Avenue.

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greeley-evans district 6 news Kaiser Permanente grant to increase wellness Kaiser Permanente and Greeley-Evans School District 6 have announced new funding to help make good health a part of everyday life in schools. The $100,000 grant is part of Kaiser Permanente’s increased focus on school health known as the Thriving Schools Initiative.

Launched nationally by Kaiser Permanente in February 2013, Thriving Schools engages school communities to champion change by incorporating evidence-based, community health improvement practices.

Greeley-Evans School District 6 plans to use the grant to increase physical activity for students and staff through several before- and after-school programs, including running clubs, a middle school soccer program and student wellness teams at each school.

“This grant will allow us to expand some incredibly successful programs and allow more students access to fun and healthy physical activities,” says Superintendent Ranelle Lang. “We are grateful to Kaiser Permanente for making these grants available and know this funding will have a positive impact on many students.”

“The link between healthy students, reduced absenteeism and stronger academic performance is well documented.

Thriving Schools offers us a unique and targeted campaign to work collaboratively with Colorado schools to advance health and improve academic performance,” says Donna Lynne, DrPH, president of Kaiser Permanente Colorado. “In addition, healthier schools cultivate a stronger Colorado workforce for the future.”

Research continues to demonstrate the link between academic achievement and physical activity. Children who are physically active have higher test scores and improved attention in class, decreased absenteeism and improved behavior, decreased stress and improved mood. Also, evidence suggests that healthier students are better learners and physical activity can improve student 36

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academic achievement.

Kaiser Permanente currently delivers care to more than 90,000 school-age children and 30,000 teachers and staff who spend the majority of each day on a school campus. These new grant initiatives will deepen and expand such established partnerships and programs as Kaiser Permanente’s Educational Theatre Programs, which has reached almost 3 million Coloradans through dynamic, free health education theater performances since 1986. Kaiser Permanente is also a founding funder and continued supporter of LiveWell Colorado’s school-based health initiatives.

Learn more about Thriving Schools at thrivingschools.kaiserpermanente.org or @thrivingschools on Twitter. Visit www.kp.org/communitybenefit to learn more about Kaiser Permanente’s community benefit programs.

Ground breaking held for new middle school Ground was broken on the new Prairie Heights Middle School during a ceremony at the school site, located at the intersection of 37th Street and 65th Avenue in Evans, on Thursday, March 27.

Members of the Board of Education and District 6 staff, as well as officials from the cities of Greeley and Evans, were present to assist with the ceremonial turning of the dirt. The public was also invited to attend.

At its March 10 meeting, the Greeley Evans School District 6 Board of Education approved a $22.6 million contract for general contractor services for FCI Constructors, Inc., based in Longmont. Four contractors were pre-qualified to bid on the contact.

The project is being funded through a $22 million Building Excellent Schools Today grant, funded through the state of Colorado; and an $8 million bond issue approved by voters in November of 2012.

Construction of the school will

begin in earnest this summer, with a scheduled opening date of August 2015.

Board of Education approves consolidation of two east Greeley schools The Greeley-Evans School District 6 Board of Education has approved the consolidation of two east Greeley schools into one, two-campus K-8: The Bella Romero Academy of Applied Technology.

Combining staffs and students from the current East Memorial Elementary School and Bella Romero K-7 will form the new school. The west campus will house grades K-3 and the east campus will house grades 4-8.

The new school was created to help District 6 better manage enrollment.

Bella Romero was slated to become K-8 next school year, but there is currently no room at the school to house the eighth grade, and District 6 has no funding available to expand the facility.

District 6 Superintendent Dr. Ranelle Lang says the consolidation will help create a robust K-8 neighborhood school on the east side of Greeley, something parents have been requesting for years.

“We believe this school will offer a rigorous and innovative approach to educating students in these neighborhoods, and will become a school of choice for many parents living outside this enrollment boundary,” Lang says.

Bella Romero has received a private grant to begin a blended-learning model of educating students. Blended learning integrates technology in the classroom to help students learn at their own pace. The first phase of the blended learning model will be integrated at the school next year.

All students currently living in the East Memorial and Bella Romero boundaries will have a spot at the new Academy of Applied Technology, making it the first neighborhood K-8 in District 6. Two other K-8 schools in District 6 use open enrollment, and accept students on a space-available basis.

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

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

Elementary schoolS 1 Baked ziti pasta w/meat sauce; trout treasures 2 Teriyaki noodle bowl; turkey, gravy & roll 3 Cheese quesadilla ; grilled chicken sandwich 4 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; orange chicken salad 7 Cheeseburger; BBQ chicken sandwich 8 Cheese raviolis; Italian dippers 9 Orange chicken & brown rice; penne w/meatsauce 10 Bean & cheese burrito; chicken nuggets 11 No school!

14 No school!

15 Veggie lasagna; ranch chicken bites

16 Beef rice & egg roll; cheeseburger 17 Beef tacos; turkey & cheese wrap 18 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza; BBQ chicken ranch salad 21 Sloppy Joe sandwich; chicken nuggets 22 Spaghetti w/roasted veggie meat sauce; ham & cheese sub 23 Asian Teriyaki bowl; chicken drumstick & biscuit 24 Chicken enchilada bake; hot dog 25 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; spinach salad 28 Ranch grilled chicken sandwich; mac & cheese 29 Pasta w/roasted veggies & chicken; trout treasures

30 Chicken fajita bowl; turkey pot pie Secondary schools 1 Turkey gravy & biscuit; Italian spaghetti 2 Meatball sub; chicken noodle soup & ham sandwich 3 Philly cheesesteak; Teriyaki chicken & brown rice 4 Veggie lasagna; BBQ chicken bites & biscuit 7 Philly cheesesteak; Teriyaki chicken sandwich 8 Spaghetti & veggie meat sauce; chicken broccoli Alfredo 9 Orange chicken & brown rice; Beef Szechwan 10 Chicken fajita rice bowl; cheese quesadilla

11 No school!

14 No school!

15 Spaghetti & meatballs; cheese raviolis 16 Asian Teriyaki bowl; chicken nuggets 17 Beef tacos; chicken enchilada bake 18 Trout melt sandwich; mac n’cheese 21 Sloppy Joe sandwich; chicken sandwich 22 Beef lasagna; Italian dippers 23 Beef rice & egg roll; chicken & biscuit 24 Beef & bean burrito; Mexicali chili dog 25 Turkey gravy & roll; cheese quesadilla 28 Chicken & roll; chili & roll 29 Pasta w/veggies & chicken; Meatball sub 30 Asian noodle bowl w/chicken; chicken bites & biscuit

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

$0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit.

Elementary schoolS 1-4 No school!

7 Chicken breast strips; Caesar salad 8 Pizza dippers w/sauce; chicken tender salad 9 Spaghetti & meatballs; chef salad 10 Turkey chipotle burrito; taco salad 11 Stuffed shells; garden entrée salad 14 Pancake w/sausage; Caesar salad 15 Ravioli w/white sauce; chicken tender salad 16 Hamburger; chef salad

17 Nachos w/cheese; taco salad 18 Fish sandwich; garden entrée salad 21 Mac & cheese; Caesar salad 22 Pizza; chicken tender salad 23 Chicken breast nuggets; chef salad 24 Rib-b-q sandwich; taco salad 25 Veggie lasagna rolls; garden entrée salad 28 Chicken sandwich; Caesar salad 29 Chicken Alfredo; chicken tender salad 30 Pizza stick; chef salad Secondary schools 1-4 No school!

7 Chicken breast strips; Caesar salad 8 Pizza dippers w/sauce; hot ham & cheese 9 Pasta bar; garden side salad 10 Turkey chipotle burrito; chicken parmesan sandwich 11 Stuffed shells; hamburger 14 Waffle w/chicken; pulled pork sandwich 15 Ravioli w/white sauce; popcorn chicken 16 Burger bar 17 Nachos w/meat; lasagna w/meat

18 Fish sandwich; chicken breast nuggets 21 Mac & cheese; popcorn chicken 22 Pizza; chicken fajita wrap 23 Fiesta bar 24 Rib-b-q sandwich; pizza dippers w/ sauce 25 Veggie lasagna rolls; chicken breast strips 28 Chicken sandwich; nachos w/cheese 29 Chicken Alfredo w/penne; hamburger 30 Pizza barcs

Greeley District 6 —To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.25, and middle school lunches are $2.50, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ. Elementary schoolS 1-4 No school!

7 Mac n’cheese; chicken fajita wrap 8 Chili w/cinnamon roll; club hoagie 9 Chicken Alfredo pasta; PBJ sandwich 10 Turkey pot pie; ham & cheese hoagie 11 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 14 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; chicken salad sandwich 15 Chicken Cordon Bleu; turkey & cheese wrap 16 Toasted cheese sanwich; PBJ 17 Herb chicken w/dinner roll; Italian hoagie

18 BBQ Chicken pizza; tuna salad sandwich 21 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 22 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 23 Lasagna; PBJ 24 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 25 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; PBJ 28 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 29 Bean & cheese burrito; turkey & cheese wrap 30 Baked ziti; PBJ

Secondary schools 1-4 No school!

7 Mac n’cheese; chicken fajita wrap 8 Chili w/cinnamon roll; club hoagie 9 Chicken Alfredo pasta; PBJ sandwich 10 Turkey pot pie; ham & cheese hoagie 11 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 14 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; chicken salad sandwich 15 Chicken Cordon Bleu; turkey & cheese wrap 16 Toasted cheese sandwich w/tomato soup; PBJ 17 Herb chicken w/dinner roll; Italian

hoagie 18 BBQ Chicken pizza; tuna salad sandwich 21 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 22 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 23 Lasagna; PBJ 24 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 25 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; PBJ 28 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 29 Bean & cheese burrito; turkey & cheese wrap 30 Baked ziti; PBJ

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

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

Elementary schoolS 1-7 No school!

8 Taco; corndog 9 Waffle stick; turkey & cheese sub 10 Baked ravioli; cheeseburger 11 Cheese or Hawaiian pizza; fish sandwich 14 Spaghetti 15 Chicken sandwich; corndog

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16 Chili; turkey & cheese sub 17 Teriyaki chicken; cheeseburger 18 Pizza; fish sandwich 21 Popcorn chicken; Smucker’s uncrushables/cheesesticks 22 Corndog; turkey & cheese sub 23 Hamburger; corndog 24 Chicken Alfredo; cheese-

burger 25 Stuffed crust cheese or pepperoni pizza; turkey & cheese sub 28 Mac n’cheese; Smucker’s uncrushables/cheesesticks 29 Chicken tenders; corndog 30 Cheese nachos; turkey & cheese sub

Secondary schools 1-7 No school!

8 Taco 9 Waffle stick 10 Lasagna 11 Steak & cheese sub 14 Spaghetti 15 Chicken sandwich 16 Chili 17 Teriyaki chicken

18 Pizza burger 21 Popcorn chicken 22 Weiner wrap 23 Cheeseburger 24 Chicken Alfredo 25 Meatball sub 28 Mac n’cheese 29 Chicken tenders 30 Cheesy beef nachos

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APRIL 2014 ONGOING Through April 26 The Tempest The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Through May 25 South Pacific Come enjoy this musical classic by Rodgers & Hammerstein. Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970-2252555 or www.midtownartscenter.com.

April 3 – May 4 I, Claudia Written by Kristen Thomson. Directed

by Dulcie Willis. Watch the raw but beautiful interior world of a misfit adolescent. Bas Bleu Theatre Company, 401 Pine St., FC. 970-498-8949 or www.basbleu.org.

April 3 – June 8 Damn Yankees Enjoy this 8-time Tony Award winning Broadway musical. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Dr., Johnstown, CO. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com.

April 10-12 2014 International Lifetree Film Festival The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 970-962-2120 or www.ci.loveland. co.us.

April 24-26 Memphis The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Tuesday, April 1 Happy April Fools Day! UNC Vocal Jazz Concert Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

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Paintbox Theatre 2014 Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 10am. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

2Time Nature with Kevin Cook Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

April Fool’s Fun Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 1pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Wednesday, April 2 Bright Beginnings for Infants This class empowers parents with knowledge and parenting tools to create a bright beginning for their child. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www. pvhs.org.

Loveland Loves Origami Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Play’s the Thing: Entertainment in Shakespeare’s Day Lincoln Park Library, High Plains Library District, 919 7th St., GR. 2pm. 970-5068622 or www.mylibrary.us.

Lego Blocks? Let’s Go! Centennial Park Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 1-5pm. 970-506-8622 or www. mylibrary.us.

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

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

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead An hour filled with fun science experiments and art activities for students in grades 1-5. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4-5pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Thursday, April 3 Non-Toxic Cleaning Workshop Presented by the Sustainable Living Association. River Rock Commons Community House, 520 N. Sherwood #35, FC. 6-8pm. 970-224-3247 or www. sustainablelivingassociation.org.

Friday, April 4 LUMA A state of the art, cutting edge show that uses the dark as a canvas and light as the brush. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-2216730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Dana and Susan Robinson Two guitar-playing, banjo-frailing, fiddle-sawing, and harmony-singing interpreters of the American experience.

Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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

First Friday: A Night of Art Greeley is thriving with local artistic talent! Stop by any and all of the participating art galleries for a wonderful evening. Downtown Art Galleries & Studios, GR. 5-8pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

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First Friday Gallery Walk Old Town Square, Downtown, FC. 6-9pm. 484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Saturday, April 5 Kathleen Madigan: Madigan Again The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com.

Winter Farmer’s Market Opera Galleria, 123 N. College Ave., FC. 10am-2pm. 484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

A Little Birdie Told Me...

Meet raptors and just-hatched chicks!

Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-3:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Movie Night: Much Ado About Nothing (2013) Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Colorado All State Band Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 4pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com. The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 2pm & 7pm. 970962-2120 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Fuzzy, Fabulous Bunnies: Raising and Showing Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Kids Nite Out A great place to meet your friends and hang out! Chilson Recreation Center, 700 E. 4th St., LV. 7-10:30pm. 970-9622000 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

The Power & the Glory The Greeley Chorale closes out it’s 49th concert season. First United Methodist Church, 917 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 970351-2290 or www.greeleychorale.org.

Sunday, April 6 Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Old Town Public Library, 201 42

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Peterson St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra Concert for Children and Families Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 4pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

RMCS! A Cappella!

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

Monday, April 7 Read & Seed: Sensory Game Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Tiny Trekkers Join Larimer County Naturalists for a special program for your toddler and you. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, Larimer County. 10am. www.larimer. org/naturalresources.

Tuesday, April 8 Kevin Cook: Weasel Among the Rocks Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Noon-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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

International Night: Peru and Panama Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

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

Wednesday, April 9 Rocky Mountain Raptors Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

UNC Orchestra Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Bright Beginnings for One-Year-Olds This class explores how thinking and interactions change as your infant becomes a toddler on the go. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www. pvhs.org.

Wednesdays Wild World of Art Class: Round and Round Explore the amazing circle shape.

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

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

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

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead An hour filled with fun science experiments and art activities for students in grades 1-5. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4-5pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Thursday, April 10 Water: How Much, What Kind, and Why Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Vermicomposting Presented by the Sustainable Living Association. River Rock Commons Community House, 520 N. Sherwood #35, FC. 6-7:30pm. 970-224-3247 or www.sustainablelivingassociation.org.

The Snail and the Whale Based on the popular book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 6-7:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

Bill Gaither Homecoming Tour 2014 Budweiser Event Center, 5290 Arena Circle, LV. 7pm. 970-619-4100 or www. budweisereventcenter.com.

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Echoes to Bugles: Weasel Among the Rocks Farr Regional Library, High Plains Library District, 1939 61st Ave., GR. Noon. 970506-8500 or www.mylibrary.us.

3rd Annual Greeley Winter Farmers’ Market Across from the Greeley Tribune, 508 8th Ave., GR. 9am-Noon. www. greeleydowntown.com.

Friday, April 11 Ranger’s Apprentice Boot Camp Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Kids Nite Out A great place to meet your friends and hang out! Chilson Recreation Center, 700 E. 4th St., LV. 7-10:30pm. 970-9622000 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Harmony in the Round with Poudre River Irregulars Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Sunday, April 13 35th Anniversary Gala Presented by the Canyon Concert Ballet.

The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 2pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com.

Saturday, April 12 35th Anniversary Gala Presented by Canyon Concert Ballet. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

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

Late Night Catechism: Sister Rolls the Dice!

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

Easter Art Workshop: Tower of Eggs Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10:30-11:30am. Ages 4-6. 970-962-2410 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Easter Art Workshop: Doodle Eggs Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 1-3pm. Ages 7-12.

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

Sensory Storytime for Children with Special Needs Farr Regional Library, High Plains Library District, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 10:30am. 970-506-8500 or www.mylibrary.us.

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Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 3-4pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Wednesday, April 16 Messy Hands Art for Preschoolers: Cardboard Art Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10-11am. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

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

Bright Beginnings for Infants This class empowers parents with knowledge and parenting tools to create a bright beginning for their child. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www. pvhs.org.

Wednesdays Wild World of Art Class: Fun and Funky Flowers Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 3:30-4:30pm. 970962-2410 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Monday, April 14 School’s Out Movie: Despicable Me 2 Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 2-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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

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

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

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead An hour filled with fun science experiments and art activities for students in grades 1-5. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4-5pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Tuesday, April 15 Read & Seed: Bunnies Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Thursday, April 17 Kathy Mattea The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

APPLE Be part of the Adolescent Patron Producers of The Library Experience (APPLE) and share your thoughts and opinions about the teen scene and it’s events. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 3:15-4pm. 970-9622665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Friday, April 18 Foodie Walk Old Town Square, Downtown, FC. 5-8pm. 484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Penn & Teller Is it comedy, magic, or both? Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm.

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

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

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

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

We are closed Sunday and Monday.

1408 WEST MOUNTAIN AVENUE FORT COLLINS, CO 80521 • 970.407.1451

mysisterknits.com

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NOW Registering for Summer Camps

Summer 2014

Hip Hop • Ballet • Jazz • Tap Lyrical and Pre School Dance!

Vist us online to sign up: A DancePlace.com

WINDSOR 1292 Main Street Unit 6

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EATON Eaton Recreation Center 224 1st Street

GREELEY 955 52nd Ave Ct. Suite 100B

Lyrical and

an hool D ce! c S Pre

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Tot Art Class: Spring Explosion Experiment with watercolor dyes, salt, and color diffusing papers! Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10:30-11:30am. 970-962-2410 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Film Screening: Much Ado About Nothing Farr Regional Library, High Plains Library District, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 5:30pm.

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

Saturday, April 19 ImagineArt for Tweens/Teens Drawing with Pencil and Wire.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1-3pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Brickmasters: Come Build with Legos Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 10am & 1pm. 970-962-2665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Bunny Hop Skate Skate with the Easter Bunny, your family, and friends. Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. 12-1:30pm. www. greeleyicehaus.com.

Kids Nite Out A great place to meet your friends and hang out! Chilson Recreation Center, 700 E. 4th St., LV. 7-10:30pm. 970-9622000 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Monday, April 21 Bright Beginnings for Infants This class empowers parents with knowledge and parenting tools to create a bright beginning for their child. McKee Medical Center, 2000 N. Boise Ave., LV. 10am-12:30pm. 970-669-9355 or www. bannerhealth.com.

Transcending the Darkness Centennial Park Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6pm. 970-506-8622 or www.mylibrary. us.

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

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Tuesday, April 22 Happy Earth Day! Bright Beginnings for Infants This class empowers parents with knowledge and parenting tools to create a bright beginning for their child.

Medical Center of Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 12-1pm. 970-4957528 or www.pvhs.org.

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

Celtic Woman Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

What’s Up With Shakespeare’s Men? Farr Regional Library, High Plains Library District, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6pm. 970506-8500 or www.mylibrary.us.

Bone Up On Your Backbone Join naturalists for a nature hike and learn about the secret world of the Devil’s Backbone. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, Larimer County. 6pm. www. larimer.org/naturalresources.

Wednesday, April 23 Messy Hands Art for Preschoolers: Cut-Paper Mosaics Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10-11am. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for Two-Year-Olds This class explores positive guidance strategies and how to provide a supportive environment that promotes early literacy, brain development, and a healthy/safe environment during the active twos. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am.

970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Book Buzz: Poetry Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Shakespeare: A Chautauqua Presentation Centennial Park Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 970-506-8622 or www. mylibrary.us.

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

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

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead An hour filled with fun science experiments and art activities for students in grades 1-5. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4-5pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Thursday, April 24 Shakespeare: The Tempest Centennial Park Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2pm. 970-506-8622 or www.mylibrary.us.

Friday, April 25 Olander Elementary Invention Exhibit Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 4-6pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Battle of Bards Poetry Reading and Award Ceremony Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Crazy Little Thing Called Love!

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

Saturday, April 26 ImagineArt for Tweens/Teens: Painting Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1-3pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Christian McBride Presented by the UNC Greeley Jazz Festival. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

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SPRING IS NEAR CONTAINER GARDENS ARE IDEAL! Container gardens are ideal for low-maintenance lifestyles Container gardening has grown in popularity as more people opt for low maintenance living with limited outdoor space and are an easy way to create vibrant floral arrangements or grow your own fresh vegetables and herbs. Creating these gardens can be fun and easy and local greenhouses offer a variety of pots and plants and have knowledgeable staff to assist you in your selections.

While shopping for containers and plants, keep three things in mind – the location and amount of sun or shade it receives, the types of plants you want to grow and the size and mobility of the pot. Tall, thin containers add height to tall plants and low growing plants look better in short containers. Once the pots have been chosen, get creative with 52

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selecting the plants. Pots full of colorful blooms can be created by mixing perennial varieties and many vegetables and herbs grow well in containers. Planting your garden is the easiest step! Begin by filling half of your container with a good potting soil and then arrange each plant in the pot beginning with the tallest, until you achieve the look you want. To create full looking floral containers do not follow plant spacing directions, instead plant your blooms tightly together and backfill around the plants with dirt until the pot is full. Fertilize your pots and water them thoroughly, then place them in their desired locations. Check them daily to assess their water needs and fertilize - PAID ADVERTISEMENT -

weekly to encourage continued growth. In the excess time you now have, sit back on your patio and enjoy your creations.

After all, this is why you chose low maintenance living!

This article is provided courtesy of Good Samaritan Society - Water Valley Senior Living Resort, Windsor CO 970-686-2743 and written by Sandra McMillen, local author Photos courtesy of Gulley Greenhouse, Fort Collins, CO To Learn more about Good Samaritan Society – Water Valley Senior Living Resort Call the Marketing Coordinator, Michele Clements 970.674.5517 or the Director of Sales & Marketing, Audrey Thrash (970) 674-5529

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Crazy Little Thing Called Love!

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

Children’s Chorale Spring Sing Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 4pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

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

Kids Read Parent Training Program Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 10am. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Kids Nite Out A great place to meet your friends and hang out! Chilson Recreation Center, 700 E. 4th St., LV. 7-10:30pm. 970-9622000 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Wednesday, April 30 Messy Hands Art for Preschoolers: Puppets Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10-11am. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

El Dia de Los Ninos: Dia de los Libros Lincoln Park Library, High Plains Library District, 919 7th St., GR. 1pm. 970-5068622 or www.mylibrary.us.

3rd Annual Greeley Winter Farmers’ Market Across from the Greeley Tribune, 508 8th Ave., GR. 9am-Noon. www. greeleydowntown.com.

Sunday, April 27 Larimer Chorale: Make Our Garden Grow The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com.

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Monday, April 28 Read & Seed: Caterpillars Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Tuesday, April 29 Read & Seed: Caterpillars Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1010:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

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

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

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead An hour filled with fun science experiments and art activities for students in grades 1-5. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4-5pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Get your FREE issue today!

Northern Colorado’s

Favorite Senior Magazine.

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time out

Not a morning person A day in the life of a 4-year-old

K a t i e Harris

T

his is the story of a day in the life of a 4-year-old. Well, only the first 10 minutes of a day actually, but it felt like much longer.

My 4-year-old son is a sweet, thoughtful, and empathetic little boy.

He’s always finding ways to help others, to put smiles on people’s faces. Don’t get me wrong, I adore the kid. He is not, however, a morning person. Those of you who, like me, would advise any rational person to keep their distance before you’ve had your morning coffee might be able to relate. This particular morning was just another of those pre-coffee mornings, 4-year-old style.

It all started when my sweet little boy trudged upstairs, hair disheveled, pajama pants on inside out, one hand held up to his face to shield the spring sunshine that had dared to wake him. A high-pitched whine escaped his lips as he swatted blindly at the dogs, pushing his way past them up the stairs.

The first intelligible word to escape his mouth was “hungry.” Realizing I wouldn’t respond to a statement phrased that particular way, he went to the pantry to get himself a bagel and retrieved the cream cheese from the fridge. Seconds later the first round of tears began, full force.

“My bagel broke!” he screamed. Indeed, the top half of the bagel had torn, leaving it in pieces. His ever-cheerful sister explained to him that the situation could easily be remedied by spreading cream cheese on both halves and essentially gluing them together, but this only led to him picking up the dilapidated pieces of bagel and hurling them across the kitchen with that special kind of defiance and determination only a 4-year-old can pull off. The cream cheesy knife followed, sticking to the refrigerator. The three of us watched in silence, absorbing the start of our morning, as the knife sagged down the 56

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length of the fridge, leaving a smear of cream cheese in its wake.

Glancing at the clock, I made a quick decision to not freak out, but instead focus on getting everyone out the door in time for school. After getting myself dressed and ready to go, I hollered downstairs for the kids to get their shoes and backpacks on. As I should have expected, I found my stubborn

might. I reminded him of his responsibility to feed his fish each morning, but the look he gave me clearly said that if he couldn’t have his breakfast, they wouldn’t be getting theirs either.

By the time he arrived at school, 10 minutes late and full of puffy, tearstained cheeks, he’d been forced into suitable clothes, grounded from TV for a week for making me dress his

little boy lying flattened to his bedroom floor, still in his mismatched jammies, tears streaming down his cheeks. “I want you to fix my bagel!” He screeched.

I held my temper and gently asked him where it was. “It’s in the trashcan!” was his sad reply.

I held back a frustrated sigh. I tried to diffuse the situation by offering him a chocolate-covered granola bar, his most beloved snack. But today he wasn’t having it. When I told him he needed to get dressed for school and could eat the school breakfast when he arrived, the tears began flowing yet again.

I half dragged him into the bathroom where I brushed half a front tooth through lips squeezed shut with all their

lethargic little self, and had finally decided to eat a granola bar in the car, conveniently the one I’d packed myself for nourishment before my morning run.

Through clenched teeth I wished him a good day, and he stated that it would be impossible to have a good day now. It’s a rough life being 4.

I imagine sometimes what it would be like to find both my children at their desks coloring rainbows and butterflies, beds made and teeth brushed, quietly letting me start my day in my own, slow and cranky fashion when I finally roll out of bed each morning. Alas, I am the mother of a 4-year-old. And he’s about 20 years shy of his morning coffee.

JOHN M. JAMES, M.D.

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

SPECIA

LIZING

IN:

ATHSM A ALLERG IES ECZEM A

PLAY PLAY

JUNIOR ROLLER DERBY WITH THE

FOCO SPARTAN BABES! NOW RECRUITING GIRLS, AGES 7-11 and 12-17

VOLUNTEERS AND REFEREES NEEDED!

RECRUITMENT INFORMATIONAL MEETING MONDAY, MARCH 10TH • 6:00PM AT ROLLERLAND SKATE CENTER • 324 SOUTH LINK LANE

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

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

www.coloradoallergy.com

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Abundant Trees and Landscaping Increases

your home’s value 15-20% Source: National Association of Realtors, April 2013

Now is a Great Time to Plant Trees!

Fruit Tree Sale

Buy one Get one 50%off!

Apple, Peach, Plum, Cherry, Pear, Apricot Strong healthy trees ready to fruit starting at $59.99 ea!

4 5/31/14

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A general dentistry practice that’s all about kids and young adults, ages 0-20!

Book your child’s dental exam today!

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for children under 2!

970-635-4353

126 E. 29th St. • Loveland www.kindergrins.com Monday - Thursday 8-5

$75 New Patient Exam

Receive a $15 Target Gift Card

Includes Exams, Cleaning, Fluoride, X-Rays.

for each NEW Patient Visit.

One coupon per patient. New patients only and without insurance. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit.

One coupon per patient. New patients only and without insurance. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit.

Expires: 4/30/14 RMP0414

Expires: 4/30/14 RMP0414

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