RM Parent June 2014

June 2014 • RMPARENT.COM

Pet

project Making

fitness fun

Babies,

bugs & sun

Top

swimming spots

Farmers

markets

Relaxing dad

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JUNE 2014

Departments

Features

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

Pets are people, too—they make us laugh and cry like everyone else in the family

FIRST YEARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Buggy, sunny world—keep baby safe with a few precautions

Family activities . . . . . . . 10

Make a splash this summer—dip into some of the top swimming spots in northern Colorado

gIVE ME A BREAK . . . . . . . . 12 Oh, the stress of being a dad—fathers worry about money, time and doubts

Community news . . . . . . 14

Thriving now and in the future—northern Colorado communities inspire and promote healthy lifestyles

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

To the Farmers Market we go—what to look for when shopping for local foodstuffs

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 4

18 The fun of it all The key to your kids getting regular exercise

is to make it fun. The best exercise plan is figuring out what really thrills you and your kids, and doing those activities as often as you can. It comes naturally and isn’t driven by a desire to lose weight, get healthy or look good like with us adults.

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

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

Back away from the remote—the war to get kids away from the television

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 School Marshal Program launches, Books for Schools Award granted, kids give back to community, Centennial breaks ground on new outdoor classroom and gardens, Opening Minds facilitates T-Town camp, mobile defibrillators donated

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Bauder volunteer finds volunteering rewarding, preliminary 3rd-greade TCAP scores, rendezvous brings history to life, Community Connections honors graduates

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 District 6 maintains high reading TCAP scores, district receives US wellness recognition, teacher named LCD Teacher of the Year, parents satisfied with schools

20 P et project Intentionally growing one’s family often

involves careful planning and understanding because these decisions are for the long haul. This should hold true when it comes to adding a pet to the familial mix. Pet-specific space, exercise and grooming requirements, plus food and veterinary costs should be understood when purchasing or acquiring a furry, feathered, finned or scaly companion.

ABOUT THE COVER: Ruby, 9, likes gymnastics, hanging out with her friends and painting. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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perspective Pets are people, too...

They make us laugh and cry

R

ight now, maybe at this very moment, Charlie is getting “fixed” and chipped.

I figure it’s a good trade though he might not agree. We’re in to month 4 of the puppy adventure. More than once I’ve said, “What were we thinking? A puppy? Really?”

When he finished making messies indoors, he started eating the indoors...the couch cushion, shoes, his leashes. And he’s pretty roughand-tumble with the rats too. (That’s my term of endearment for our not-so-miniature dachsund and chihuahua-mix dogs).

But he does make us laugh and he’s the sweetest thing when he’s not body slamming Frida (chihuahua mix) into the chain link fence or nipping Betty’s (the other one) butt. He seems to be part red heeler at least, but we don’t really know. He was from one of those puppy rescue things. I use him as a Rorschach test...

What kind of dog is he?

I don’t know. What do you think?

Well, he’s definitely got some pit in him. (Guy with flatbed pickup at the gas pump) Or “He kind of looks like your Aussie, doesn’t he?” (Gray-haired women walking in the neighborhood) I think people like him, so they see him as a type of dog they love.

Anyway, he’s part of the family now. That’s for sure.

We’ve always had pets, mainly dogs and cats and they’ve always been part of the family. I’ve heard it attributed to Mahatma Gandhi that you can judge the morality of a nation by the way the society treats its animals. And I can see it because that’s where many kids have their first experience with love and compassion...or cruelty and neglect. Possibly the way kids treat their pets reflects the way they’re treated, but now I’m getting way above my psycho-analytical pay grade. And I think Gandhi was referring to all our animals...not just our pets.

But the fact is that animals don’t have a way to lobby for themselves, so it’s a great opportunity for us to teach respect and responsibility to our kids. What we do when no one is watching is what reinforces our character the most, I’ve heard said (no attribution this time!). And giving our kids the daily opportunity to reinforce their ability for love and compassion just seems like a good idea.

Anyway, be sure to check out Kim Sharpe’s story about adding a pet to your family.

Well...update on Charlie: He’s back from the vet and a bit groggy still. We’re going to try to stay ahead of that pain curve and keep him from working those stitches open. He seems good. We got a chip put in too while he was knocked out so that we can find him if he’s ever lost.

Some days...like after he chewed up the cushion on the couch...I wonder if I really want to find him. Just kidding...right?

Thanks, Scott 6

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JUNE 2014 • Volume 19, Issue 1 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com Calendar editor Kim Sharpe 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, Kyle Moyer COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Richard Keller, Kim Lipker, Lynn Nichols, Kim Sharpe

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Avenue, 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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first years

Buggy, sunny world Keep baby safe with a few precautions

L y nn U . N i c h o ls

Y

ou’ve got a young baby that you want to keep safe from too much sun and mosquitoes, but at the same time, you want to get her out into the world. What to do? Take precautionary measures then head out the door.

Be smart about the sun There’s nothing like the warm sun soaking into your skin as you lounge on the deck or by the pool. But alas, sun tanning falls into that everything-inmoderation category. Gone is the ignorance that the worst thing about sunburn is a little pain. With a shrinking ozone layer letting in more and more ultra-violet rays, we really need to think about how much time we spend in the sun.

It only takes a few severe burns to increase our risk for skin cancer. In fact, burns in the first eight years of life are the most linked to melanoma. A study by the National Cancer Institute shows that the intensity of the sun matters: In some locations, cancer-causing UVB rays are stronger. A 10 percent increase in UVB rays was associated with a 16 to 19 percent increased risk for melanoma. Since Colorado has high altitude and over 300 days of sun each year, we need to be extra cautious.

Of course you want to protect your baby from the sun. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, sunscreen should not be used on babies younger than 6 months of age, except very occasionally. That’s because a baby’s skin is thinner than an adult’s and allows chemicals to be absorbed, sending them around the bloodstream. After 6 months, sunscreen is deemed safe.

Yet some parents of babies still feel uncomfortable with sunscreens. If this is you, choose your sunscreen wisely. Read labels for key ingredients such as oxybensone and nano titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, and avoid them. The first is a prov8

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en endocrine disrupter which can affect the nervous system. The safety of the second two are also questioned. Nano refers to the size of the particles and whether or not they can be absorbed into the skin.

For ultimate safety, choose micronized versions of these chemical particles.

Finding a product with these stipulations likely means visiting a natural products store. There are several sunscreens on the market designed for babies.

Do your best to keep your infant out of the sun. Find shade, dress her in long sleeves and light pants, get her a hat, and plan your outside time before 10am or after 2pm.

Think before you spray You want to protect your baby from bugs, but the idea of a DEET-laden spray seems wrong. Do what you are most comfortable with and use products wisely.

The American Academy of Pediatrics states that a 30 percent concentration is safe for both children and adults, but that 10 percent can be used for parents who are concerned. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Pre-

vention (CDC), says you can put insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 on a baby who is 2 months or older. Avoid oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) until your child is 3 years of age.

If you do choose to use DEET, do so wisely. Spray it on your baby’s clothing versus directly on her skin, keep it away from her eyes, nose and hands, and don’t spray it in an enclosed space or near food. Never put it on a cut or exposed skin or under clothing, and rinse your baby after coming back indoors.

If using DEET makes your skin crawl more than the bugs do, try a natural bug spray. It’s true, DEET seems to work best, but some natural products work relatively well. Look for ones that are non-toxic, derived from vegetable and plant sources.

Besides using repellent, fit your baby’s stroller with mosquito netting, avoid ponds and thick woods, dress him in long sleeves and pants in the evenings, and stay indoors at dawn and dusk.

Don’t let worries of sun, bugs, or chemicals keep you from having fun this summer.

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family activities

Make a splash this summer

Dip into some of the top swimming spots in northern Colorado K i m L i p ke r

N

orthern Colorado has quite the variety of water fun, such as, neighborhood pools, lakes, rivers, indoor pools, pool playgrounds, and water slides. So, grab your suit and get moving.

Swimming lessons and pool memberships are available at many private pools, neighborhood pools and health clubs. Always wear a certified life vest if you are boating, rafting, tubing or floating on natural waterways.

Indoor Pools Fort Collins

• Edora Pool Ice Center (EPIC) 1801 Riverside, 970-221-6683. 50-meter by 25-yard pool with two 3-meter and two 1-meter diving boards, separate warmwater pool, separate wading pool.

• Mulberry Pool 424 W. Mulberry, 970-221-6657. 25-yard pool with 1-meter diving board and large shallow water play area.

• Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Drive, 970221-6644. 25-yard four-lane lap pool, 10-person spa. For adults only, 18-years and older.

GREELEY

1599 City Park Drive, 970-221-6202 Swimming pool with special lazy river, shallow water, geysers, large play structure, other play features, drop slide and curly slide.

Greeley • Centennial Outdoor Pool 23rd Ave. & Reservoir Road 970-330-2837 Playground, picnic area, tennis and skate park. This is a large pool with a nice slide and a diving board. It also includes a nice small splash park for the smaller set.

• Discovery Bay Waterpark 715 E. 24th Street, 970-353-3538 Awesome play structure with a must-see dinosaur attraction!

• Sunrise Splash Park 4th Ave. & 12th Street, 970-356-2594 Island Grove Splash Park, 14th Ave. & A Street, 970-353-4253

Greeley

Windsor

Windsor

• Windsor Pool 421 Chimney Park Drive, 970-686-2632 Wading pool with 18-inch depth, 25-meter pool, 150-foot waterslide and concessions.

The waterslide here gets rave reviews year after year.

• Windsor Lake Swim Beach 100 N. 5th Street. Great sandy swim beach with concession area.

• Greeley Recreation Center Pool 651 10th Avenue, 970-350-9403. Great pool for lap swimming.

Family FunPlex Adventure Island Indoor Waterpark, 1501 65th Avenue, 970-350-9401.

Super fun activity pool, slides, zero depth, and lazy river.

Loveland

Loveland

Natural water

• Chilson Center 700 East 4th St., 970-962-2386. Swimming pool with water slide, two hot tubs and full fitness center.

Outdoor Pools Fort Collins • City Park Pool

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• Gateway Mountain Park or Picnic Rock State Park Great stopping points just a short drive up the Poudre River. Picnic areas, river viewing and fishing.

• Winona Outdoor Pool 1615 4th St. SE, 970-669-6907 An 83-foot slide, diving boards, wading pool, leisure pool with raindrop water feature, deck, basketball and volleyball.

Fort Collins

• Horsetooth Reservoir www.co.larimer.co.us/ parks/horsetooth) Campsites, picnic areas, boating, water skiing, fishing, paddle boarding and swimming.

• Allen Park 49th and 9th Street. Lake, playground, picnic area and fishing.

• Bittersweet Park.

35th Ave. and 13th Street. Lake, playground, picnic area, basketball and fishing.

• Cottonwood Park 26th Ave. and 18th Street. Lake, picnic area and fishing.

• Glenmere Park 14th Ave. and 19th St. Lake, playground, picnic area and fishing.

• Sanborn Park. 28th Ave. and 20th St. Lake, playground and picnic area.

Loveland • Boyd Lake State Park 3720 N. County Rd 11C, 970-669-1739 Campsites, picnic areas, boating, windsurfing, fishing and swimming with lifeguards on duty during peak periods.

• Lake Loveland All along Lake Loveland on Hwy 34 at the South End, or 29th Street and Taft Hill Road at the North End. Sandy beaches, tennis, basketball, playground, fishing, concessions and volleyball.

• Carter Lake 1800 S. County Road 31, 970-6794570. Swim beach with lifeguard on duty and boating.

• Carter Lake Marina 970-667-1062, rents boats and has a cafe, general store and fuel dock.

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give me a break

Oh, the stress of being a dad...

Fathers worry about money, time, and doubts K IM S H A RP E

W

elcome to this new column, which will run monthly in RM Parent. Inspiration for the column’s name came from my desperate need to unwind and relax more often. The column’s theme was solidified as my husband and I recently enjoyed a break by bicycle touring around southwest New Mexico for 400 miles and I was reminded again about how important it is to get away and rest. Granted, not everyone thinks pedaling across a desert landscape for days on end sounds relaxing, but it met our need for an escape. My goal for this column is to continually remind all of us about the importance of taking time to recharge our batteries and suggest ways moms, dads, kids, grandparents and others can do that.

As this column is launching in June when we celebrate Father’s Day, I’m dedicating this month’s thoughts to dads. And because I strive to be a responsible journalist who represents information in an accurate way, I’ve done my homework by posting a request on my Facebook page for dads to tell me what their biggest stressors are, what they wish they could escape from and what they like to do to take a break from the daily grind. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of responses I received very quickly. I could relate to all of them, which tells me moms and dads, females and males, aren’t as different as some popular psychological theories want us to believe.

The main concern found in every response is that fathers worry about whether or not they’re doing it right. They wonder: Am I being a good dad? Am I doing what’s necessary to meet my children’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs?

Do I measure up?

I suspect some of this questioning comes from a lack of having solid role models themselves and our society’s adoption of unrealistic Norman Rockwell or 12

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“Leave it to Beaver” stereotypes about what a good father looks like and how he performs in his paternal role. Perhaps it’s also because dads don’t receive enough positive affirmation from their partners and others around them.

Other sources of stress that my informants noted include:

dren says, “When my kids were young, I would ask for 10 minutes of ‘me time.’ If I was granted 10 minutes without interruption, then I would be at 100-percent with them.” He also found it helpful to explain to his kids the relationship between working and affording time together, and by setting goals with them. This let them

Money–Dads worry about whether they earn enough to support their families.

“Financial pressure is a big stressor,” says one dad with five children. Another says it’s the unknown financial hits they get every year, such as bills related to illness, injury, car accidents or home repairs, that really heap on extra stress.

Time–“There is never enough,” says yet another dad. “Managing [my kids’] busy schedules with my busy schedule causes the most stress.” Dads often wonder, “Am I available when my kids need me?” Yet they struggle with wanting to be needed and feeling overwhelmed by all the demands that come with being needed.

One dad unabashedly just puts it out there: “I wish I could escape from the non-stop need to be there for my kids.” He gets kudos for his honesty.

An experienced dad with grown chil-

know that …when I was gone or I had to take a call, it would get us closer to a vacation or going out to dinner.

Speaking of going out to dinner, many dads report they get a break by going out on dates or just hanging out with their wives. Others mentioned going out with their guy friends occasionally.

Most other de-stressors mentioned are physical in nature, like going camping, hiking, fishing, running, biking or rock climbing. (Interestingly, one physical stress reliever no one mentioned is sex, but I bet they were thinking it.)

So this Father’s Day and every day, let’s give the dads in our lives the breaks they need. Let’s tell them how much they are appreciated and loved. Let’s plan a date night. Let’s give them space to get exercise and recreate. I’m sure this will benefit not only dads, but all of us around them, too.

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community news

Thriving now and in the future

Northern Colorado communities inspire and promote healthy lifestyles K IM S H A RP E

E

very month as I gather information for this column, I am impressed by the number of initiatives and intentionality of our northern Colorado communities to inspire and promote healthy lifestyles. This month is no exception.

The City of Loveland is seeking public input as it updates its comprehensive plan that guides decision making in that community. The goal is to help Loveland grow into a vital, thriving City that gives its residents easy ways to make health-minded choices.

Fort Collins continues to promote health through activities such as bicycling. More of its businesses are earning national recognition for being bicycle friendly and that City’s stakeholders are especially interested in getting more women riding bikes.

Kids in Greeley can look forward to fun activities focused on nutritious eating at the Greeley Farmer’s Markets held throughout the summer.

And one of CSU’s many research projects involves the health of teenagers and working with them now to prevent type 2 diabetes later in their lives.

I hope you and your family can participate in one of the many healthy offerings available to you this summer.

Help CreateLoveland City of Loveland staff, civic leaders, stakeholders and residents are crafting a vision for the City’s future by updating its primary guiding policy document—the Loveland Comprehensive Plan. Changes to the plan will focus on integrating land use and transportation projects, and framing the plan in terms of healthy lifestyles, as well as economic and environmental sustainability.

The Comprehensive Plan affects everyone in Loveland and can be used in different ways by different groups. Resi14

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dents may be interested in the location of parks, trails, schools and other community facilities. Business and property owners may be interested in land use recommendations or development policies that may affect their property. Elected officials, advisory board members and agency staff will refer to the Comprehensive Plan to inform budget decisions, schedule capital improvement projects, and enforce zoning and subdivision regulations.

Seeking broad community input so the plan represents public interests and desires, the public is invited to participate in a visioning workshop for the Comprehensive Plan Update on Tuesday, June 10, or Wednesday, June 11, 4-8pm, at Bill Reed Middle School, 370 West 4th St., Loveland.

Complementing Loveland’s planning process, CanDo Loveland has recently launched an online tool that allows individuals to create maps of places and spaces that support healthy, active lifestyles. The tool is called imapland.

Its main purpose is to solicit input from community members around healthy eating and active living.

Loveland community members can access the mapping link from CanDo’s website (www.candoonline.org). Register on the site to create a map of Loveland that identifies places you like and frequent or dislike and avoid, where you get your food, and where you play or recreate.

For more information the comprehensive plan update visit, www. createloveland.com.

Health District designated a Bicycle Friendly Business For its efforts at creating a workplace biking culture, the Health District of Northern Larimer County has been designated a Bicycle Friendly Business by the League of American Bicyclists.

The Health District, which received

a Silver Award from the League, joins 14 other Fort Collins companies and organizations currently recognized as Bicycle Friendly Businesses. Nationally, there are more than 700 local businesses, government agencies and Fortune 100 companies in 46 states that are recognized as Bicycle Friendly Businesses. Designations are made twice a year and remain in effect for four years. The Health District was the only local business to earn the honor in the most recent application round.

Bicycle Friendly Businesses encourage a more bicycle-friendly atmosphere for employees and customers. The Health District does this by sponsoring various worksite bike challenges, offering incentives to riders, leading lunchtime rides, and hosting clinics on bike maintenance and safe riding skills. The Health District, which has two loaner bikes available to employees for errands and commuting, also regularly participates in local and national biking events such as Bike to Work Day and the City of Fort Collins Winter Worksite Challenge. Last winter it cosponsored a Winter Bike to Work breakfast site. For the past three years, the Health District also has partnered with the Fort Collins Cycling Club on the group’s Spring Warm-up Ride that raises money for to provide dental care to individuals with a low income.

Over the past year, the Health District has seen an increase in the number of employees using bikes to run errands or commute to work or meetings, according to Sue Hewitt, evaluation coordinator for the Health District and one of the volunteer organizers of biking activities for the agency.

“The Health District works to create a healthier community, and we can start right here in our own workplace,” says Dee Colombini, coordinator of the Health District’s Connections program and another organizer of the agencies bicycling

activities. “Biking supports employee wellness, contributes to environmental sustainability and is part of our local culture.”

Founded in 1880, the League of American Bicyclists is leading a movement to create a bicycle friendly America for everyone.

The Health District is a local public agency that provides dental, mental health, prescription assistance and health promotion services to the residents of northern Larimer County.

Fort Collins announces “Women on a Roll” bicycle initiative In 2009, a report from the League of American Bicyclists identified five key strategies for increasing women’s participation in bicycling: comfort, convenience, confidence, consumer products and community. That year, according to their survey, women accounted for only 24 percent of bicycle trips taken in the United States.

Motivated by the League’s report, the City of Fort Collins FC Bikes program, in partnership with several community organizations, has launched a “Women on a Roll” bicycle initiative. Various events, classes, and rides will be held this summer in an effort to encourage more local women to bicycle as a healthy and fun way of traveling around town.

For example, FC Bikes will host an adult Women’s Learn 2 Ride! class on Saturday, June 14, 10am-12noon. Learn 2 Ride! is a free, two-hour class for female adults interested in learning how to ride a bicycle. Through a safe, easy and effective method, Learn 2 Ride! teaches attendees how to balance, pedal, start, stop and steer a bike and properly fit their helmet. Class participants will meet in the Rocky Mountain High School parking lot, 1300 W. Swallow Road, Fort Collins. Registration is required and attendance is limited to 30.

For more details or to register, visit http:// fcgov.learn-2-ride-foco.sgizmo.com/s3/.

The Women on a Roll initiative also has inspired local organizations to host weekly community bike rides tailored to, but not exclusively for, women.

Ride, Sally Rides will take place on Thursdays at 5:30pm. Rides depart from the Downtown Transit Center, 250 N. Mason St. Ride information is posted on the Bicycle Ambassador Program

community calendar (www.bicycle ambassadorprogram.org/calendar).

Learn more about the Women on a Roll initiative and other events hosted by the FC Bikes program at www.fcgov. com/fcbikes.

“Growing Kids” in Greeley The Growing Kids Zone is a program at the Greeley Farmers’ Market designed to

inspire kids to make healthy choices and introduce them to where their food comes from. Each time kids ages 3-12 visit the Farmers’ Market they will receive a reusable shopping bag and $2 in food bucks.

They can use their bucks to buy fresh fruits, vegetables and food plants. They also will be able to participate in fun physical and creative activities related to food.

Growing Kids is held the second Saturday of each month, June through October, at the Greeley Depot, 902 7th Ave. The Growing Kids Zone will be open 9:30-11:30am.

The Kid’s Zone is a collaboration between Make Today Count! Campaign, the City of Greeley and University of Colorado Health Healthy Kids Club.

CSU study: Decreasing stress in teens may prevent adult type 2 diabetes Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that puts people at risk for other major

health problems like heart disease. It’s the most common type of diabetes in adults, however, there is a concerning rise in type 2 diabetes among teenagers.

Diabetes develops through poor insulin sensitivity, meaning that insulin—a chemical the body makes to keep blood sugar normal—isn’t working properly. Improving insulin sensitivity, which can be affected by stress,

can prevent type 2 diabetes.

Individuals who feel stressed have lower insulin sensitivity than those who do not feel stressed. In adults, decreasing stress leads to improved insulin sensitivity, but this hasn’t been tested in teenagers, so CSU researchers are beginning a study to do so.

After an initial screening to determine eligibility, selected girls ages 12-17 who have at least one family member with type 2 diabetes are randomly assigned to take part in one of two six-week group programs designed to decrease stress and improve mood. The first, Learning to BREATHE,” is a mindfulness-based program. The second, “Colorado Blues,” is a cognitive-behavioral program. After participating in their assigned group, girls return for three follow-up visits over the course of a year. Eligible participants will be financially compensated for their time.

For more information, call 970-4911120, email ShomakerLab@colostate.edu or go to http://awl.colostate.edu.

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nutrition To the Farmers’ Market we go!

What to look for when shopping for local foodstuffs R i c h a r d K elle r

N

ow that summer is finally here, the taste for the season’s fruits and vegetables is steadily increasing. You need to find a place to satisfy your cravings.

Head down the street to the farmer’s market. Now until mid-fall local farms and businesses offer the freshest produce as well as various dairy and meats. Not only does a trip to this outdoor market allow you to support nearby businesses, it also helps you get ideas on what recipes to make over the summer and fall months.

Here are a few tips to help you shop wisely for you and your family.

asking for a sample from the vendor. Most vendors will be more than willing to give you a taste in order to sell their items.

Those selling other food such as homemade candy or sauces will probably offer free samples to all market goers without an individual request.

Only buy what you need The products found at the farmers’ market tend to be on the organic side, which

means no pesticides or preservatives are used in their production. And while fresh and chemical-free is certainly the way to go, it makes the shelf life of the products much shorter. This means one of two things – either you eat it within a week or two or you decide to freeze and can the items for future use. In addition to making a list of items to purchase, it may be a good idea to list the measurements of the ingredients you’ll need for your recipes.

Determine what you need Make a list of the items you want to look for at the farmer’s market.

Go early The best items are normally available first thing in the morning. The products are plentiful at opening then slowly dwindle throughout the day.

Bring cash … and bags Farmers’ markets are not full-service operations. They can make change and may provide boxes to carry your products to your car or bike but that’s about it. If you’re looking to purchase a large amount of food, make sure you bring sturdy bags to carry it in. Also, make sure to have cash on hand to buy your items, or check ahead of time to see if there are alternative ways to pay. For example, the Larimer County Farmers’ Market in downtown Fort Collins allows you to purchase market bucks with a credit or debit card that are used like regular cash at the vendor tables.

Sample the goods The produce may look robust and succulent, but how does it taste? Don’t purchase something new or unfamiliar without 16

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Find fresh food near you The northern Colorado area is blessed with a number of farmers’ markets that sell produce and other foodstuffs from local vendors. Here are a few of the more popular ones.

Larimer County Farmers’ Market 200 South Oak St., FC www.larimercountyfarmersmarket.colostate.edu This market is held in the Larimer County Courthouse Parking Lot from 8am to noon each Saturday until October. The best thing about it, besides its variety, is its location right off of the new MAX rapid bus service line.

Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 West Drake Road, FC www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com Situated near the AMC Theater, this openair market is open Saturdays from 10am to 1pm. The vendors at this venue change week to week.

Greeley Farmers’ Market Union Pacific Depot, 902 7th Ave., GR, 970350-9783 www.greeleygov.com/Community Development/FarmersMarket.aspx A wide variety of locally-grown and produced food products including in-season fresh produce, meats, honey, breads and other baked goods, roasted chilies, and more along with great items from local artisans and crafters. Saturdays: May 17–October 25, 7:30am to noon.

Wednesdays: July 9–September 24, 3 to 6pm.

Loveland Farmers’ Market 3133 North Garfield, LV www.fortcollinsfm.com/market-locations.html The Loveland Farmers’ Market is situated in front of the Hobby Lobby off of Garfield and State Route 287 and is opened on Tuesdays from 11am to 3pm.

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The fun of it all Encourage your kids to be fit with activities they enjoy

Lynn U. Nichols

L

et’s face it, following a work out plan is, well, work—whether you are a kid or an adult. The key to your kids getting regular exercise is to make it fun. The best exercise plan is figuring out what really thrills you and your kids, and doing those activities as often as you can. For kids, it’s often simple: Let them play. It comes naturally and isn’t driven by a desire to lose weight, get healthy or look good like with us adults—it’s done for sheer enjoyment, and often, that’s enough.

Let kids lead Structured team sports are great—they give kids an outlet to run, gain some skills, and hang out with kids their age.

But it can’t be all there is when it comes to moving their bodies. It’s wise to balance free play with organized sports.

“I encourage parents to make time for creative, active play. In our busy lives where we are trying to fit things

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into time slots, we can feel locked in and limited. Allowing time for creative free play turns it away from exercise and into a fun activity,” says Dr. Anneke Arellano, Family Medicine Physician with the Family Health Care of the Rockies in Fort Collins.

When it’s their own idea, kids are much more motivated to do it. Instead of saying, ‘go kick the ball around in the yard,’ you can say, ‘let’s go make up a game outside, your pick.’ Then step back and let your child lead. Likely he will come up with some really wacky but fun and creative ideas.

Set them free in safe places It’s easy as parents of younger kids to consider everything that might go wrong when our kids are playing, especially if they are getting a bit wild. It is our job to keep them safe from harm.

But sometimes, we go a bit too far. We pull our kids off of climbing structures

at the park, we hold onto the backs of their shirts to keep them from running ahead, we put them on leashes.

“It’s finding your comfort zone, then challenging it a bit. Set parameters for safety then give your kids the freedom to figure it out themselves. Rarely do I see kids come in with injuries from creative, physical play. I see more injuries from organized sports,” Arellano says.

The next time your child is trying to scale a patio ledge or scurry up a boulder, try biting your tongue and resisting the urge to jump in and stop her. You will likely realize she knows her limits, and she will gain body confidence that she can carry with her the rest of her life.

Be okay with messy Getting mud-spattered from jumping in puddles or wet from spontaneously running through a sprinkler doesn’t always fit well with our scheduled plans.

Yet encouraging kids to find their own thrill in physical movement and play may take just that.

“I was hiking with my young nephew in Rocky Mountain National Park and it had just rained, so there were puddles everywhere. Right away he started jumping in them. It took all I could to not tell him to stop. I was anxiously thinking, ‘He’s going to get his feet wet and he won’t make it!

He’s going to get cold, or a blister!’ But finally I let go, and I felt my energy come back up. It was getting sucked into the situation. His feet got wet and he got a little blister, but he made it the whole way to the end without complaining. Who knows? Had I come down on him we both would have been miserable; and later he might have said that he didn’t like hiking, because he would associate it with nagging instead of fun,” Arellano says.

Encourage them to taste a bit of everything As parents, we want our kids—especially our older ones—to pick a sport and commit. We don’t want them to learn the bad habit of quitting. Yet there’s something to be said for kids sampling a variety of activities. When they do, they gain experience in many activities and in the future, they are more comfortable trying new things or returning to an activity that they are familiar with. So encourage your kids to try a variety of activities—group sports, independent sports, and physical activities alike.

“Preadolescent kids are notorious for trying a lot of different activities.

One week they want to be a dancer, the next they hate dance and want to try karate. Even if it goes against your grain, let them explore,” Arellano advises.

Another benefit to lots of varied physical activities is that kids then maintain a balanced body. Unbalanced bodies can lead to injury. Overuse injuries are seen in kids who only do one sport, like soccer, baseball or tennis.

“Our muscles are a balance of push and pull, and if we choose just one main activity, we are building up just one area of our body, putting it out of balance,” Arellano says, who sees more overuse

injuries from repetitive motion in adults than she does kids, but it does happen.

“Kids need to work all their muscles—arms, legs, back, chest and abdomen—which they naturally do when we set them loose in a safe environment,” Arellano adds.

Get out there and do it, too Arellano advises parents to limit their kids’ access to favorite sedentary activi-

ties like watching television and playing video games. The easiest way is simply not having them in the house. While these items provide creativity on a platter, they don’t encourage your child to flex his own creative muscles.

“Don’t give the opportunity to be sedentary. Maximize opportunities to be active and minimize the opportunity to be passive,” she says.

Even if we don’t know it consciously, we know it’s true when we hear it: If we are not active, our kids won’t be active either. Start your own Move Every Day Campaign—it doesn’t have to mean huge changes. Making small changes or doing quick activities several times a day adds up. How about cranking the tunes in the living room and dancing for a few songs while dinner cooks? Having a hopping race in the backyard when you let out the dog? Learning a few jump rope tricks as you get the mail? Or practicing the old traditional idea of running the stairs versus taking the elevator?

“Life is a mix of being sedentary and active. Parents model that. If you say, ‘go outside and play’ and you stay inside, you’ll likely create a power struggle. Instead, say, ‘Let’s all get outside and play Frisbee.’ In that way, you teach your kids to be active,” Arellano concludes.

Fit-family programs Need a little structure to get your kids started? Sign up for the Healthy Kids Club Run Series.

The Healthy Kids Run Series offers eight runs throughout the summer and fall for kids (ages 5-12) and teens (13-18). Have your younger kids join their friends and get free entrance into well-known runs throughout the season. Teens participate in 5K runs at the discounted price of $10. All participants earn prizes for running four or more races.

Visit the UCHealth North website (www.pvhs.org/runseries) to register. Once signed up, you will receive reminder emails of upcoming races. The race schedule includes: • Father’s Day 5K, June 15 • Human Race, June 26 • Peach Festival 5K, Aug. 23 • Berthoud Family Fun Run, Sept. 7 • Be Great 5K, Sept 20 • Halloween Hustle, Oct 11 • Homecoming Run, Oct 18

Want another option? Try Fit Families on the Move!

If the run series feels like too much structure, join Fit Families on the Move! also through UCHealth North. You’ll receive $1 swims and gain great ideas on summertime activities to do with your kids. Fit Families on the Move! 2014 is a program sponsored by University of Colorado Health Healthy Kids Club, designed to keep families moving and active during the summer months! Fit Families can participate in a variety of free or low-cost activities all summer long! Register and learn more at www.pvhs.org/fitfamilies.

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Pet project

Consider well before growing your household Kim Sharpe

I

ntentionally growing one’s family often involves careful planning and understanding because these decisions are for the long haul. This is true of twolegged homo sapien additions and should hold true when it comes to adding a pet to the familial mix. Pet-specific space, exercise and grooming requirements, plus food and veterinary costs should be understood when purchasing or acquiring a furry, feathered, finned or scaly companion. Acquiring a pet should not be the result of an impulse-shopping trip.

Lifestyle and personality Before you decide what type of pet is best for you, consider your lifestyle and personality. If you work nights, choosing a pet with nocturnal tendencies may allow you more sleep during the day. If you tend to be on the high-strung side, perhaps a mellow, easy-going pet will help you achieve emotional balance. The ages of the children in your home should dictate pet choices, too.

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There also are choices to be made when it comes to where to get a pet. Pet stores, breeders, humane societies, rescue programs and adoption agencies are among your options. It seems many people favor adopting or rescuing pets.

“I have never thought of purchasing a pet (like a dog or cat) because there are so many pets that need homes…All the pets I’ve owned have been rescued,” says Cammie Austin-Bilo, whose Windsor family includes two adopted cats, Domino and Tuxedo. “I figured they all need a good home and why pay big bucks (other than adoption fees) for them.”

Susannah Neals, another northern Colorado pet lover strongly agrees: “My advice is adopt from a reputable shelter and don’t buy. The puppy mill industry needs to be shut down and there are more than enough wonderful animals looking for a home. All our dogs are rescued and we love them. We like poodles and poodle mixes because they are smart,

friendly, fun and don’t shed.”

Just like human offspring, sometimes pets enter our lives in serendipitous ways.

People welcome these unexpected surprises because they have big hearts and the capacity to care for the homeless.

“I attract strays and ‘unwanteds’— from hamsters, birds, turtles, cats and dogs,” says Jennifer Ochwat, a Fort Collins mom and child-care provider. “We give them a home when no one else wants them.”

Space Whether you live in a one-room apartment or on a multi-acre ranch makes a big difference in the type of pet that will be appropriate for your family. The space needed to humanely house a gold fish is vastly different from that of a horse.

Julie Bullard, a Fort Collins mom, owns four adorable Chihuahuas. She doesn’t have a huge backyard, but her pups think they live on a farm.

If you rent or lease a house or apart-

ment, your landlord may have rules about what kinds of pets are allowed. Beyond the allowances, some lease/rental agreements require an extra deposit for pets.

If you own your home, you may live in a neighborhood governed by a homeowner’s association that restricts certain types of pets. Whether an HOA exists for your neighborhood or not, if your pet of choice has the potential to impact the lives of those who reside around you, it’s courteous to get their input or at least warn them of your future family addition. The last thing you want is for your beloved pet to become a nuisance to others.

Exercise Some pets require more exercise than others and that exercise may require your involvement, so choose a pet that matches your desired level of activity. A gerbil’s owner can get away with putting a little squeaky wheel in the rodent’s cage and call it a workout, but that type of logic won’t work if you own a hyper dog that may develop behavior issues if he isn’t allowed to regularly expend pent-up energy. On the other hand, if you and your family needs motivation to go for walks and play outdoors more, owning a pet that demands exercise may be just what you need to get moving.

Food, health care and grooming The initial expenses associated with obtaining a pet are just the beginning. Plan to add a “pet” line item to your budget, because all pets need food and usually regular checkups and immunizations to maintain a healthy countenance. If your pet gets sick, veterinary bills can add up quickly. Another item that can add up are grooming costs if you have a pet with high grooming needs that you’re unable to take care of yourself.

Sharon Mallow knows this firsthand.

She says, “I wanted to adopt a pet that would work with the grandkids. I found Sadie; she is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. She has been a great pet, loves to travel with us and gets along with other dogs pretty well. The down side

is she needs a lot of grooming, and as she has aged, she has increased health issues.”

Other considerations Some pets can negatively affect the health of human family members. For example, some people are allergic to cat or dog dander. Others are sensitive to feathers or saliva. Family member allergies should be added to the equation when deducing what pet to own.

If you plan to mix it up a bit and have more than one type of pet, make sure they’ll get along. If you already have a cat, bringing home a parakeet may not be the wisest decision, as birds present tasty temptations to felines small and large. On the other hand, pets who often get billed as arch enemies can learn to co-exist, such as cats and dogs.

If an exotic pet is in your future, know there could be local, state and federal laws on importing and owning rare creatures. Airlines and customs port authorities also may require additional paperwork or quarantine procedures.

Also think about who will take care of Fido go when you go on vacation. You may be blessed with friends and family who love to pet sit which simplifies leaving your pet behind when you travel. If not, you’ll have to make arrangements to board your pet or hire a pet sitter, and these choices come with a price tag. Taking your pet along for the ride may impact your mode of travel, lodging options and the activities you enjoy.

Saying goodbye Losing a pet is a very sad experience because those darn critters become part of our families. Whether the loss is unexpected or an impending event makes no difference when it comes to the grief we feel.

Gail Bishop, clinic coordinator at the CSU Argus Institute, says, “Making the decision to euthanize a beloved pet is one of the hardest decisions a pet parent, or pet owner is ever faced with. It can be a guilt laden, emotional decision and one that rarely is taken lightly. Getting the support you need when faced with this decision is important. But not everyone believes in euthanasia. For a variety of reasons pet parents are deciding to opt for a natural death.”

Bishop also recommends pet owners have a Plan A and a Plan B in place.

“Plan A” represents when you have

time to implement what is important to you in saying good-bye to your beloved pet. For example, what location is important to you? Your home, your veterinarian’s clinic, a public place, inside or outside?

Who do you want present? If you are involving children, what are their ages and how do you best prepare them? Are there other pets you want present? Do you want music, a favorite poem, a last meal, etc.?

What veterinarian do you want to assist you and do you know their euthanasia protocol? What do you want to do with your beloved’s body? Cremate, bury, etc.?

“Plan B” is when an emergency occurs, which no one ever wants to happen, but plan for it none the less. Where is the closest 24-hour emergency clinic? If you have a large animal and moving your pet requires two people, who is around to help? Do you have the appropriate medicine at home to help with an emergency? Thinking through the possibilities can help one feel more in control if an emergency occurs.

Inviting pets to be a part of your family, while a serious decision, also most often is a rewarding one.

Kelli Farrand Chan, yet another mom of children and pets, sums it up by saying, “I feel it is important for kids… to grow up with or at least spend time around pets because they teach us how not to be defined by another person. They also teach us to respect boundaries and love others just the way they are.”

Pet adoption options Animal House Rescue and Grooming 970-224-DOGS or www.animalhousehelp.org Denkai Sanctuary, 970-454-3353 or www.denkaisanctuary.org Fort Collins Cat Rescue, 970-226-3647 or www.fccrsnc.org Larimer County Humane Society, 970-226-3647 or www.larimerhumane.org Poudre Puppy Rescue, 970-692-1278 or www.petfinder.com/shelters/CO273.html Weld County Humane Society, 970-506-9550 or www.weldcountyhumane.org

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thompson school district news TSD School Marshal Program launches its ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security in schools. If you have any questions about the School Marshal program, please contact your school office.

Thompson School District is pleased to announce the creation of a School Marshal program, made possible through a new partnership forged with the Larimer County Sheriff ’s Department.

Exploring methods to enhance safety and security for Thompson students, staff and visitors is a key priority for the district. The marshal program will provide for enhanced school security by utilizing reserve sheriff ’s deputies, who will periodically patrol the school areas and also walk the campuses both inside and outside the buildings. The program began operations on April 23.

The schools that will initially be aided in this program include all elementary schools that are located outside the city limits of Loveland: Coyote Ridge Elementary, Cottonwood Plains Elementary, Big Thompson Elementary, Carrie Martin Elementary, Berthoud Elementary and Ivy Stockwell Elementary.

This new effort will operate in conjunction with the district’s successful School Resource Officer (SRO) program maintained in partnership with the Loveland Police Department.

All reserve deputies are Colorado law enforcement sworn peace officers.

These individuals undergo the exact same rigorous selection process, background investigation and training pro22

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gram as full-time sheriff ’s deputies.

Reserve deputies will work in and around elementary schools to intervene in any life-threatening or bodily injury incidents only. They will not intervene in any school-related behaviors, as school administrators are well-trained in handling these types of incidents.

In addition to the added safety and security, the presence of the reserve deputies will be beneficial for helping to build trust and to nurture positive relationships with students.

School visits will be flexible in how they are scheduled and arranged in collaboration with school administrators.

The district believes that this new program will be a fantastic addition to

Opening Minds and EARSS facilitates camp Expelled and At-Risk Student Services (EARSS) and Thompson School District hosted a student effectiveness camp called “T-Town” last month. Traditional and non-traditional high school students from across the district came together as one to participate in leadership, culture, climate and empowerment activities to take back to their prospective schools.

These are proactive steps in creating a cohesive student-led voice in Thompson School District. T-Town was a threeday/two-night trip to YMCA in Estes Park from April 13-15. EARSS and the nationally/internationally renowned program “Opening Minds” facilitated it.

Opening Minds is a well-respected program. Its founder, Deanie Woldek, has been honored by Youth for Human Rights International with their Human Rights Hero Award. The group awards individuals for the work that they do to promote human rights awareness. Youth for Human Rights gives these awards at their annual Human Rights Summit, which was held in Washington, D.C., this year.

Thompson School District was honored to have a partner with the stature of Opening

START SMART— PARENT/CHILD GOLF 4 Lessons for $55 • 5:45-6:45pm Sessions beginning June 3 & July 8 BEGINNER GOLF CAMP $195 (includes lunch), 9:30am-12:30pm, Mon.-Thurs.

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the growing process by helping distribute the first round of seeds. Supporters of the project are in the midst of fundraising for several features. If you would like to donate, please contact Centennial Elementary School at 613-5800.

Minds available to help impact our students and district community.

Books for Schools award granted Target Stores recently chose Monroe Elementary School to receive a “Books for Schools” award, which consisted of a $500 grant to purchase books through the “First Book Marketplace.” With that grant money, the school was able to buy 126 new library books for their students to enjoy. THANK YOU, Target!

Kids give back to community Ponderosa Elementary School has adopted a “take action” focus that encourages children to give back to their community. On March 27, kindergartners hosted their first-ever baby shower for McKee Medical Center’s Healthy Beginnings program, which supports new families in our community. Kindergarten students and families donated four large baskets and more to the program. Representatives from McKee joined the group to receive their baby shower gifts. Just like a traditional baby shower, the children participated in baby food sampling, baby bingo and opening of the gifts and collaborated to make a painting. Studio Vino provided a wonderful picture to add thumbprints to and the painting was then donated to the medical center. It is a beautiful beginning to a new partnership that supports our local families!

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Centennial breaks ground on new outdoor classroom and gardens On April 23, Centennial Elementary School students, parents, staff members and community supporters broke ground on the school’s new outdoor classroom and gardens. Located on the western edge of the school property, the project will provide students with a hands-on approach to learning, including a community garden, butterfly garden, outdoor classroom space and more. The irrigation system has already been installed and students kicked-off

Mobile automatic external defibrillators donated to TSD Tom Lucero and Julie Kruit, the parents of 14-year-old Tommy Lucero, who had to be resuscitated on a baseball field in April and underwent surgery to repair a birth defect in his heart, donated four mobile automatic external defibrillators to the Thompson School District on April 25. The presentation was made before the opening pitch of the varsity baseball game between Thompson Valley High School and Mountain View High School.

Friends and family members raised nearly $9,000 in Tommy’s name. The family donated all $9,000 to the McKee Medical Center Foundation to cover the expense of the four devices. The donation helped kick off the Loveland Heart Safe City campaign, a community-wide effort to educate area citizens on the dangers of sudden cardiac arrest.

To show their support of Tommy and his teammates, coaches and players of the Mountain View team presented them with gift certificates to a local retailer prior to the game.

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poudre school district news Volunteering is rewarding

Bauder VOC, Claudine Ronquillo, finds volunteering rewarding.

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!

Parent volunteer at Bauder since 2005, Claudine Ronquillo, decided to sign up for the Volunteer Building Coordinator position in 2013.

Her volunteer involvement includes attending the PTO meetings, and 26

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volunteering for school community events at Bauder such as their annual walk-a-thon, book fair, and vision and hearing screenings. “Volunteering in the classroom at Bauder has been rewarding on many levels,” says Ronquillo. “It gives me an opportunity to foster good working relationships with my children’s teachers.” She also says it is very rewarding to work with the children, encourage them, and play a small part in their learning experience.

“Bauder has a wonderful community of students, staff and parents,” says Ronquillo. Through the fundraising efforts of students for Bauder’s annual Walk-a-Thon this past fall, Bauder was honored to give back to the community with a donation to the Red Cross to help the flood victims of northern Colorado.

As an added bonus, the Bohemian Foundation agreed to match Bauder’s

donation to the Red Cross! Ronquillo says, “This inspired a new tradition for Bauder’s Walk-a-Thon by donating a percentage of funds raised to a new charity each year.” The third and fourth grade classes voted to support Homeless Gear for their Fall 2014 event!

With summer around the corner, much of her spare time will be spent with her family at the community pool. She also enjoys watching the Colorado Rockies and going to outdoor concerts.

Ronquillo is looking forward to learning new ways to be helpful in her role as VBC at Bauder, and to get to know more of the staff and volunteers. “Life is busy and it can be difficult to strike a balance,” Ronquillo says,” but it is my desire to help out in any way I can. I love the community at Bauder and cannot say enough good things about them.”

Preliminary 3rd-grade TCAP reading scores show 83 percent of PSD students scoring proficient or advanced Poudre School District third-graders held steady on state tests in reading this year with 83 percent of students reading at or above grade level based on the Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP) reading test.

TCAP tests replace the former Colorado Student Assessment Program (CSAP) tests that students have taken in the past and support school districts as they transition to the new Colorado Academic Standards.

Students can fall into one of four categories based on their performance: unsatisfactory, partially-proficient, proficient and advanced. Students who rated proficient or advanced are performing at or above grade level.

View all schools’ 3rd-grade TCAP results here.

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PSD’s preliminary results show significant gains at several elementary schools including Timnath (17 percent), Irish (15 percent) and Riffenburgh (12 percent). Overall, 15 schools met or exceeded the 85 percent district goal with 14 schools improving their percentage of proficient or advanced students. Comprehensive results of all TCAP tests given this spring in reading, writing, math and science to 3rd-10th grades, as well as the 11th grade ACT results, will be released by the state in August.

Rendezvous brings Colorado history to life Colorado history was brought to life during the 33rd annual Rendezvous at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery! PSD fourth-graders learned how Colorado’s past influences our present while participating in engaging activities.

Community Connections Honors Two Amazing Graduates The PSD Community Connections

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Michael Murphy (middle) and David Jones were honored for their hard work and accomplishments.

program honored two graduates at a graduation tea held May 7. Congratulations go to David Jones and Michael Murphy for their hard work and accomplishments!

Now that he’s graduated, David says he plans to continue to volunteer and recreate in the community.

Michael says he will continue to be actively involved in social and volunteer opportunities.

Community Connections is a PSD program for students with developmental disabilities, which prepares them to live fulfilling lives as adults in the community.

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greeley-evans district 6 news District 6 schools receive U.S. wellness recognition

District 6 school principals and nutrition services employees are, front row from left: Val Smythe, Madison Elementary principal; Ingrid Dillehay, Jackson Elementary Principal; Jennifer Sheldon, Monfort Elementary principal; Anne Ramirez, Heiman Elementary Principal; Cathy Nelson , Meeker Elementary principal; Monica Draper, Martinez Elementary principal; and Rachel Hurshman, District 6 Wellness Specialist. Back row, from left: Jeremy West, director of Nutrition Services; Lazlo Hunt, Scott Elementary principal; Anthony Asmus, Centennial Elementary principal; Justin Ungeheuer, East Memorial principal; Mark Thompson, Maplewood Elementary principal; Lydia Bates, Dos Rios Elementary principal and Jon Cooney, Romero K-7 principal.

Thirteen Greeley-Evans School District 6 elementary schools have been recognized by the HealthierUS School Challenge for their nutrition and wellness programs, and will receive cash awards to promote healthy programs for students.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service established the HealthierUS School Challenge. It recognizes schools that take specific steps to improve their school nutrition environment and address childhood obesity. To qualify, schools must provide healthy meals and snacks, nutrition education and regular physical activity for students.

Eight District 6 schools received the silver award, which includes a $1,000 cash award to the school, to be used to support student wellness programs. The silver winners are: 30

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Dos Rios Elementary School, East Memorial Elementary School, Jackson Elementary School, Madison Elementary School, Maplewood Elementary School, Martinez Elementary School, Bella Romero K-7 School and Shawsheen Elementary School.

Five District 6 schools received the bronze award, which includes a $500 cash award. The bronze winners are: Centennial Elementary School, Ann K. Heiman Elementary School, Meeker Elementary School, Monfort Elementary School and Scott Elementary School.

District 6 maintains all-time high on third-grade reading TCAP Scores for third grade Transitional Colorado Assessment Program reading tests administered in February have been released, and the results

show Greeley-Evans School District 6 has maintained its all-time high, with 66 percent of its students scoring proficient or advanced on the test.

Those scores match last year’s scores, and show that District 6 is continuing an upward trend toward closing the gap with state-average third-grade reading scores. State scores dropped this year to 72 percent of students scoring proficient or advanced on the tests.

“This is great news for District 6 students,” says Superintendent Dr. Ranelle Lang. “In a year where more students took the test, and we have more students with high needs, being able to maintain our all-time high score is just incredible. More and more District 6 students are reading proficiently every year, and that is our goal.”

District 6 was able to maintain the scores in a year where 127 more students took the test than in 2013 and nearly three-quarters of the students tested are living in poverty.

Of the 1,712 students who took the third-grade reading test this year, 1,126 scored proficient or advanced – 84 more students than in 2013.

Also, the September floods impacted 81 of the students who took the test; 88 of the third graders were designated as homeless when they took the reading TCAP. With the disruption and turmoil the floods caused, and the loss in instructional time many students experienced, the results are even more meaningful, Lang says.

“We were able to overcome all these obstacles and keep on track,” Lang says. “Everyone in this district works hard to take care of our students, make sure their basic needs are met and give them the best education and instruction possible. We just have an amazing team working for our students.”

Highlights of this year’s results include: Three schools had all-time

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

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

(970) 498-5772 larimer.org/solidwaste

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high scores: Centennial Elementary School, Chappelow K-8 Arts Magnet and Winograd K-8.

Three schools had double-digit increases: Centennial, Ann K. Heiman Elementary and University Schools. Centennial increased scores by 20 percentage points over last year.

Chappelow scored the highest of any school in the district with 91 percent of its third graders testing proficient or advanced. The school also had the highest percentage of students scoring advanced: 17 percent. The state average for advanced scores is 7 percent.

District 6 overall saw a 2 percent decrease in the number of students scoring in the unsatisfactory range.

Unsatisfactory scores went down in 10 District 6 schools.

Several schools saw marked declines in overall scores this year also.

Lang says District 6 staff is working with principals to analyze the causes and give those schools extra support.

When compared with school districts around the state of similar size and student demographics, it is clear District 6 continues to beat the odds, Lang says. Being one of the lowest funded school districts in the state is also a challenge; additional resources could be used to boost student achievement even more, Lang adds.

“I am pleased, but not satisfied,” Lang says. “We won’t be content until 100 percent of our students are proficient readers. We have amazing educators in this district who will continue to work diligently toward that goal. These results confirm we are headed in the right direction.”

District 6 teacher named LCD Teacher of the Year Jessica Cooney, an English language acquisition teacher who works with the Newcomer Program at Greeley West High School, has been named as the Colorado Linguistically and Culturally Diverse Educator of the Year by the Colorado Department of Education’s Office of Language, Culture and Equity.

Cooney has been teaching in 32

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Greeley-Evans School District 6 for 12 years, and has been an integral member of a team of teachers and administrators working directly with the Newcomer Program, which helps educate and assimilate students who are new to the United States. Many of the students in this program have lived as refugees in Africa and Asia, have never been to school and don’t speak English. The program offers intensive English instruction aimed at getting the students up to speed in language skills quickly so they

can transition into regular classrooms.

In addition to her teaching duties, Cooney also directs El Teatro, a theater troupe composed of a variety of students who come from different backgrounds and experiences, who tell their own stories through a theatrical production annually.

“Jessica Cooney is fully committed to the success of students and goes out of her way to support them,” says Greeley West Principal Shelli Robins in her letter of recommendation for Cooney’s nomination. “She works endlessly meeting with students before school, during lunch and plan periods and after school tutoring

or just having an open ear.”

Cooney says she was surprised and humbled by the honor. She received the award at the Language, Culture and Equity Academy, which took place April 24 in Denver.

“I am so honored and humbled by this award,” Cooney says. “Working with refugee and immigrant students and their families is my passion and I am grateful to be recognized for doing what I love.”

Currently, District 6 has about 371 students who were refugees, and about 40 of those are currently in the Newcomer Program.

Survey: 97 percent of parents satisfied with schools Nearly all parents surveyed this school year say they are satisfied with the school their child attends in Greeley-Evans School District 6.

Conducted annually, 47 percent of parents in District 6 responded to the Parent Satisfaction Survey this year, making the results statistically reliable. The survey was revamped last year, and includes 14 questions asked of parents with students in all levels of education, from elementary through high school. The survey is given at 24 schools.

On the question, “Overall, I am satisfied with my child’s school,” 97 percent of parents either strongly agreed (70 percent) or agreed (27 percent) with the statement, up from 95 percent in 2013.

Overall, the district scored above 90 percent on each question.

District 6 principals and administration have worked to ensure greater participation in the survey over the past few years. Some schools had as many as 75 percent of their parents respond to the survey. In total, 7,389 surveys were completed this year.

The results vary by level and by school. For instance, 100 percent of elementary school parents responded they strongly agree or agree that overall they are satisfied with their child’s school.

The survey is available in a variety of languages for parents who do not speak English fluently.

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JUNE 2014 ONGOING Through June 8 Damn Yankees Enjoy this 8-time Tony Award winning Broadway musical. A middle-aged baseball fanatic trades his soul to the Devil for a chance to lead his favorite team in the pennant race against the New York Yankees, only to realize the true worth of the life (and wife) he’s left behind.

Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Drive, Johnstown. 970-744-3747 or www.coloradocandlelight.com.

June 6-8 Good Guys 17th Annual Features over 2,000 hot rod, custom, classic, muscle cars and trucks; exhibits; swap meet; model and pedal car show; live music and free kids entertainment, including a Revell model car Make n’ Take, coloring contest, clowns and more.

Budweiser Event Center, 5290 Arena Circle, LV. 970-619-4100 or www. budweisereventcenter.com.

June 7-8 Raising the Barre Presented by Northern Colorado of Dance Arts. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

June 19-August 24 Peter Pan This spectacular production about “the boy who refused to grow up” will transport you, like never before, into J.M. Barrie’s beloved tale of lost boys, pirate rogues and a mischievous fairy. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Dr., Johnstown. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com.

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Through July 23 The Cat in the Hat Based on the classic children’s book, this adaptation puts the words and rhymes of Dr. Seuss on stage with designs directly inspired by his artwork. For ages 3 and up. Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970-225-2555 or www. midtownartscenter.com.

June 26-July 6 Greeley Independence Stampede Gunslingers, craftspeople and activities from the past fill the park. Also visit prairie animals and stroll through the historic grounds. Centennial Village, 1474 A St., GR. 970-350-9220 or www. greeleymuseums.com.

Through August Fit Families on the Move This summer program sponsored by Healthy Kids Club, UC Health, is designed to keep kids and families active.

Registered families receive an all-access pass and activity calendar for over 100 free and low cost swims, hikes, laser tag, mini golf, family yoga, healthy cooking and more. Activities take place in FC, GR, LV, WS. 970-495-7400 or www.pvhs.org.

Mondays, June 9, 16, 23 Marvelous/Mad Mondays Enjoy art and science during a variety of presentations and activities.

Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave. Check website for times, topics and ages.

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

Thursdays, Through August 7 Bohemian Nights: Thursday Night Live Concert Series Bring your chairs and enjoy some of Fort Collins’ great local music. Old Town Square, FC. 7-9pm. www.bohemiannights. org/thursday-night-live-series.html.

Fridays Friday Morning Sing Alongs Sing, dance and shake up a storm. Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys, 111 North College Ave., FC. 11am-12noon. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

Fabulous Fridays Kids can come in and work on their Summer Adventure badges. We will have different fun open-ended activities and will provide the materials. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 1pm. 970506-8622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Through October Loveland Farmers’ Market Tuesdays, N. Garfield & Orchards (Hobby Lobby Parking Lot), LV. 11am-3pm. 970495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com.

Freaky Fridays for Teens Carnivorous plants, wacky inventions, gross science. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2:30pm. 970-5068622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Through August 5 Noontime Notes Concert Series Pack your lunch, bring the kids, ride your bike. You’re sure to enjoy local musical performances. Oak Street Plaza (College Avenue and Oak Street), FC. 11:30am1pm. www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Through July 4 Ben & Jerry’s FAC Concerts Bring your own lawn chair. Old Town Square, FC. 7-9pm. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

PARTY TRAYS • WEDDING COOKIES MADE TO ORDER ICE CREAM SANDWICHES WE DELIVER, WE SHIP!

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Through September 19 Friday Fest Enjoy live music under the stars. 9th Street Plaza, GR. 5-10pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Saturdays Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 W. Drake, FC. 10am1pm. 970-218-5521 or www. drakeroadfarmersmarket.com Greeley Farmers’ Market Union Pacific Depot, 902 7th Ave., GR. 970-350-9783 or www.greeleygov. com/CommunityDevelopment/ FarmersMarket.aspx.

Sundays Fort Collins Farmers’ Market 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. 11am-3pm.

970-495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com.

CAMC Farmers’ Market Ace Hardware Parking Lot, 1001 E. Harmony Road, FC. 11am-3pm. camcfarmersmarketseo@gmail.com.

Monday, June 2 Beauty and the Beast Based on Disney’s enchanting story, Contemporary Dance Academy dancers will delight audiences of all ages. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 6pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Tuesday, June 3 Android Basics Learn the basics of navigating the Android operating system on a phone or tablet.

Get to know the home screen, work with menus, connect to wifi, manage notifications and more. Bring your own Android device. Registration required.

Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 2:30pm. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Wednesday, June 4 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. 9:3010:30am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

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June 4 Itsy Bitsy Bugs The Butterfly Pavilion will bring puppets, music and of course live bugs to keep tots (ages 2-3) buzzing with excitement.

Registration required. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 10am and 10:45am. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.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. 11am-12noon. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Free Admission Day at the Loveland Museum/Gallery Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10am-5pm. 970-962-2410 or www.cityofloveland.org.

Summer Reading Kick Off Your library Summer Reading Adventure awaits - help us get the journey started! We will have fun activities, snow cones, and other surprises for children-teens.

Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 2pm.

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

Craigslist 101 Learn how to navigate Craigslist like a pro.

You will also learn how to post your own ad and how to reply to another poster’s ad. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30pm.

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

Thursday, June 5 Cloud of Dust Theater Get creative with your summer reading adventure! Experience a super fun and creative puppet show featuring Cloud of Dust Theater and Bruiser the Rag Dog. Stay after the show to create your very own puppet. Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 1pm. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Friday, June 6 Library eBooks on your iPads, iPhones, Smartphones and Tablets. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 3-6pm.

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

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.

First Friday Gallery Walk Old Town Square, Downtown, FC. 6-9pm.

484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins. com.

Saturday, June 7 Greeley Fishing Derby Bring the family and your fishing gear.

Sanborn Park, 28th Ave. & 20th St., GR. 8am-12noon. 970- 350-9430 or www. greeleygov.com/rec.

Book signing with Bob Dunn Author Bob Dunn will sign his first book “Maybe This Time.” Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 1pm. 970-506-8622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Paper Making People 16 years+ can learn a simplified version of basic papermaking by recycling old paper into new paper. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 1-3pm. 970-962-2410 or www. cityofloveland.org.

Loveland Fishing Derby For kids under 15; no license required.

North Lake Park Duck Pond, 2626 N. Taft Ave., LV. 970- 962-2229 or www. cityofloveland.org.

Sunday, June 8 Home Doctoring from the Kitchen Learn effective, natural preparations for emergency, illnesses or optimal health.

Sustainable Living Association, 201 Linden St., Ste. 204, FC. 11am-1pm. 970-2243247 or www.sustainablelivingassociation. org.

Wednesday, June 11 Lung Power Kids in grade 2-5 can explore lung anatomy as they observe a sheep lung dissection. Registration required. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 10am and 11am. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

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Echoes to Bugles: Moose by Moonlight Hardly the image of a predator, it has a Bobcat’s capabilities and a Badger’s disposition, each scaled to mouse size—a Northern Grasshopper-Mouse.

Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 12noon. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Hawaiian Shirt Day Wear a Hawaiian shirt to the pool and get $1 off admission. Discovery Bay Waterpark, 715 E. 24th St. GR. 1-5pm. 970-353-3538 or www.greeleygov.com/rec.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia Make yourself into a Chia pet. Ages 5-12 and their families. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 2pm. 970-506-8622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Guacamole Demo with Qdoba Chef Learn about healthy foods used in Qdobas guacamole recipe, as well as food safety and cooking techniques. Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3pm and 4pm. 970-6865603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

The Wizard of Oz Fort Collins’ Debut Theater invites audience participation for “Munchkins” young and old. Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion—all of your favorite characters will be there. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 6pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Thursday, June 12 Do-nothing Gardening for Teens & Tweens Bored during summer break? Become a guerrilla gardener with us when we create seed “bombs” that you can throw outside and watch bloom throughout the year.

We’ll provide all the supplies you need for these fun, flying vessels to take home and enjoy. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 2pm. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Explosive Chemistry for Teens Discover how chemical reactions are hidden in your home pantry. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 3pm. 970506-8622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

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Friday, June 13 “Tee Off for Kids” Golf Tournament This two-person scramble format event is to raise funds for youth recreational scholarships (for children/families who cannot afford to participate in recreational activities offered through the City).

Mariana Butte Golf Course, 701 Clubhouse Drive, LV. 1pm. 970-667-8308 or www. cityofloveland.org.

Composer Bruce Adolphe’s Creativity Talk and Performance This world-renowned composer and educator at Juilliard and Yale University discusses his new book, “The Mind’s Ear— Dreaming and Thinking Music.” Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8pm.

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

Saturday, June 14 Adult Learn 2 Ride This is a free women-oriented, two-hour class for adults (+14 years) interested in learning how to ride a bicycle. Rocky Mountain High School, 1300 West Swallow Road, FC. 10am-12noon. 970-224-6112 or www.fcgov.com/womenonaroll.

Sensory Storytime for Children with Special Needs Designed specifically for children who have a hard time in large groups, are on the autism spectrum or are sensitive to sensory overload. We will use preschoollevel books, songs and movement.

Registration required. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 10:30am.

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

Greeley Blues Jam Enjoy non-stop blues music on two stages.

Island Grove Park Arena, 501 North 14th, GR. 11am-10pm. 970-356-6775 or www. greeleydowntown.com.

Sunday, June 15 Father’s Day Skate Special Fathers, see if you can survive skating like you “survive” being a dad. Receive a Father’s Day “survival kit” and enjoy the day with your children. Fathers receive free admission and skate rental. Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. 970-350-9402 or www. greeleyicehaus.com.

Tuesday, June 17 Bug Songs Join the Kersey Library in Kohler Park for a fun and exciting hour of learning and singing with Bug Songs. Kohler Park, Kersey, 10am. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Bright Beginnings for Infants This class empowers parents with knowledge and parenting tools to create a bright beginning for their child.

Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 12noon-1pm. 970495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Wednesday, June 18 Iron Family Dancers and Singers The Iron Family, comprised of eight tribes and three generations, will demonstrate the different dance styles of the Native American Intertribal Powwow. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 10:30am.

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

Edible DNA Make and eat DNA! Bring a friend and learn more about your body. This program is for children ages 5-12 and their families.

Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 2pm.

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

Thursday, June 19 Origami Yoda Returns Make origami Star Wars characters, build your own light saber and more as we celebrate the hilarious and popular book series by Tom Angleberger. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 2pm. 970-5068622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Picnic at the Patio: Bakersfield Band You bring dinner and your family to this outdoor musical performance. Carbon Valley Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6-7pm. 970506-8622 or www.mylibrary.us.

Genealogy Program: “Not All Widows Have Dead Husbands.”

Untangle lineage questions by understanding marriage and divorce records, and tombstone engravings. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6:30-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

For Family Fun! Golf Loveland The Mini-Course

@ Cattail Creek T youerascehl f

and oth to ers

play

Fun and easy way to play golf whether you’re a golfer or not!

Specialized SNAG (Starting New At Golf) equipment Zero intimidation • Self-teaching Stations • 9 Holes of Fun $7 per round, $6 (4-12 yrs.), 3 & under FREE price includes equipment rental.

FREE Demo Days • May 10, 17, 24 or 31 • Beginning at 11am

970-663-5310 | 2116 West 29th Street, Loveland

www.GolfLoveland.com

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Friday, June 20 Foodie Walk Old Town Square, Downtown, FC. 5-8pm.

484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins. com.

Harmony on the Green with Colorado Swing Big Band Break out your dancing shoes for an evening of family fun. Harmony Library/ Front Range Community College Student Center Plaza, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www. poudrelibraries.org.

Saturday, June 21 Taste of Art Gala Inspired by Adventures in Wonderland, join us for an evening of art, food and entertainment to support your library.

Tickets are $30 and are available for purchase at any Greeley library. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6pm.

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

Dancing Around the World MacKinnon Royal Dance whimsically uses color and unparalleled choreography to illustrate the travels, places of our origin and our own international stories. This dance spectacular is an extraordinary event sure to excite audiences young and old. The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 6:30pm. 970-962-2120 or www. cityofloveland.org.

Sunday, June 22 Wildflower Photography Learn the techniques to take professional photographs of wildflowers. Bring your own camera. Eagle’s Nest Open Space (located near the Livermore/US-287 junction). 8:30am-12noon. www.larimer. org/NRregistration or 970-619-4489.

Tuesday, June 24 Musician Mr. Shine Enjoy loads of Mr. Shine animal songs with puppets and participation.

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

10:30-11:30am. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

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Wednesday, June 25 Bike to Work Day Ride your bike to work and receive a free breakfast at one of the breakfast stations located in several NoCo cities. FC, GR, LV. www.fcgov.com/bikemonth, www. greeleybikes.com, www.cityofloveland.org.

Meet Ben Franklin the Scientist Learn about Ben’s famous kite experiment, how he invented the lightening rod and many of his other scientific exploits.

Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for Two Year Olds This class explores positive guidance strategies and how to provide a health, safe, supportive environment that promotes early literacy and brain development. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 9:30-10:30am.

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

Friday, June 27 Board Games Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor.

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

Gaming Technology Museum Lay your hands on gaming technologies of the past and present. Come on by, try out your skills, and learn a little bit about the history of gaming. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 12noon. 970-5068622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Stick Horse Rodeo Calling all Cowboys and Cowgirls. Mosey on down to Lincoln Park for the 3rd Annual Lincoln Park Library Stick Horse Rodeo! YeeeeHaaaaw! Ages 5-12 and their families. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 2pm. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Fall Book Buzz Publishers have already lined up the hottest books for fall. Get the inside scoop on what’s coming up, expand your reading list, and get the jump on all your bookish friends. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6pm. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Thursday, June 26 Business Start-Up Orientation This free, comprehensive program is for anyone considering jumping into business for the first time. Erie Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6-7:30pm. 970-506-8622 or www. mylibrary.us.

Ben Franklin the Diplomat Hear the “inside story” about Ben Franklins time in England and France conducting diplomacy. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

Dizzy Block Classic Car Cruise Gather in the parking lot just southeast of the Greeley courthouse. 7-9pm. 970-3566775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Saturday, June 28 Ben Franklin the Ambassador When the USA declared its independence in 1776, Ben Franklin was chosen as the nation’s first ambassador. Learn more from this character portrayal. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 12noon-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Monday, June 30 Jenga Tournament Test your tower building abilities in this tournament of skill and a steady hand. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 1pm. 970-506-8622 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Indiana Bones The Floating Rocks of the Monkey Bridge is an ancient legend from India. Indiana Bones will share the legend and the science of floating rocks. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6pm. 970-506-8622 or www.MyLibrary.us.

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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time out

Back away from the remote The war to get kids away from the television

RICH A R D K E L L E R

“F

ather, may I please watch a bit of television?”

“I’d prefer you not, child. Instead, why don’t you create a new concerto?”

“Well, if I must …”

This is how I wished television conversations went in my house. In real life, the discussions go something like: “Dad, I want to watch television.”

“No.” “Why?” “Because,” I answer while I pound on my puffed-out chest.

Another variation of the television debate …

“Give me the remote,” I demand.

“No.” “Give it to me,” I repeat.

“No.” “Give it to me or … or I’ll call the police on you.”

“No,” the child responds after thinking about it for a moment.

So goes the life of the modern-day parent. Television, as well as video games and smart phones, have left sloth-like beings on the floors and furniture that sort of resemble our children. And, like the spread of reality programming, it’s a pandemic. According to a study conducted by, ironically, Nielsen, children between the ages of 2-5 watch 32 hours of television per week in the form of network shows, DVDs, DVR programs, and Netflix.

Those in the 8-18 range watch an average of 21 hours a day on various media platforms. And in an unscientific survey, my 13-year-old could watch 21 hours of TV a day if unsupervised.

Sure, we had television in that period known as Back in the Day, and we tried to maximize our viewing time with the limited channels. However, we also did other things like play unorganized sports, collect tadpoles, 42

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ride bikes, and, in a shocking turn of events, laid in the grass and did nothing on a hot summer day. There were times we left the house after fueling up with a healthy bowl of Count Chocula and didn’t come back home until we gathered enough fireflies in a mason jar. On those days the only television

other than the threats of police action.

Hiding the remotes has worked well, until they hunted them down. Well, at least they were being active at the time.

Unplugging the televisions and hiding the plugs has worked even better. There have been days where the TV wasn’t turned on until after dinner. The latest

we watched was the first few minutes of Captain Kangaroo and the last few minutes of The Love Boat. I’ll give you a moment to Google these programs.

Today, there are too many ways for children to watch television. Turn off the TV and they’ll watch a movie on their portable DVD or Netflix on their tablet. Walk out of the room for a second and they’ve programmed the DVR with a Sam & Cat marathon. A drive across I-70 isn’t met with gasps of delight as your children immerse themselves in the beautiful and barren scenery of Utah. Instead, it’s met with back seat arguments as the kids try to determine the next DVD they’ll watch in the car’s onboard entertainment system.

On a personal level, I’ve taken some drastic measures to curb the amount of television my kids watch,

idea – unplug the Netflix box and store it in a safe place. Our younger kids have been okay with that. On the other hand, my older children are going through withdrawal symptoms due to lack of Saved by the Bell.

What I find when I turn off the TV is amazing. No longer being fed a steady stream of unnaturally produced dopamine, the kids’ brains reactivate.

They go outside, read, draw, and talk to each other in calm tones. Well, the younger ones do. The tween and teen stare at us with their sad puppy eyes in an attempt to telepathically command us to plug in the television. What they don’t know is we’re immune to this, because we want the best for our children, and we’ll to anything to see them thrive. And if it means cutting their TV time back so they produce a new concerto, so be it.

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