RM Parent October 2016

OCTOBER 2016 • RMPARENT.COM

The not-so-sweet side of SUGAR

HALLOWEEN’S SCARY CANDY Jack-o’lantern

fun

FEATURED BONUS

Family Health Guide

Amendment

69

healthcare for all

The va lue of volunteering Pumpkin patches, corn mazes, hay rides and more!

REGION’S

BEST FAMILY

CALENDAR!

Special section

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Now is the time

to become the person you want to be so that 10 years down the road you don’t regret the parent you became.

You are not stuck with skills that you got (or didn’t get) from your parents. Mindfulness, neuroplasticity and mentoring can give you choices in the parent that you become.

Your kids are not stuck either with challenges they were born with or negative things they have experienced.

Investing in therapy is one of the best investments you can make for you and/or your kids.

I combine the time-tested traditions of eastern psychology with the latest discoveries in neuroscience to help adults and kids break free from the experiences and beliefs that hold them hostage in an unhappy life.

Do you want to live more fully, love more deeply and feel more whole?

Call or email for a free consultation and let’s explore how I can help.

Gwen Bartran, MA, LPCC 970-988-6978 | gartran@msn.com | gwenbartran.com

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Come and visit our

indoor playhouse & cafe.

Visit our new website for hours, classes, events, and birthday party packages.

www.coolbeansfoco.com

Now under new ownership.

(970)266-1135

OCTOBER 2016

Departments PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Trick or treat—It’s up to you this fall…

AS WE GROW . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Making Halloween about more than candy— have fun with costumes, games and giving

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10

Fall festivals, frights and family fun—Corn mazes, pumpkin patches, hay rides, zombie paintball and more!

LEARN AND LIVE . . . . . . . . . . 12 The art of Jack-o’-lanterns—carve a pumpkin, carve out family fun

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14 Plan to be happy and healthy—prepare for disturbances, get children ready to learn, eat your fruits and veggies, support natural areas

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . . 16

The not-so-sweet side of sugar—read labels to create a healthy diet for your family

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Invest in our schools—strong schools give back to the community in many ways

Special Sections FAMILY HEALTH GUIDE

2016 - 2017 RMPARENT.COM

One of the best things you can do for your kids is to kick them out of the house and into nature. We have some ideas for you. And adding a pet to the household will teach some life lessons too. We help you decide on which pet to get.

Flu vaccines are on the way but there will be no nasal-spray option this year. And finally, be safe this year.

BOUNTY: HARVEST

Discover the bounty that awaits you in our area in this local food and farm guide.

Features 18 TIME, TALENT, TREASURE

You don’t have to be rich—monetarily speaking—to give a lot away. Sometimes the best things you can offer others are a bit of your time and service. When children learn how to serve others from a young age forward, the lessons get ingrained in how they interact with the world.

School District News Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Jefferson High partners with Habitat to build home, District 6 hosts seventh annual Citizens Academy, schools celebrate Colorado Proud School Meal Deal

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

PSD calendar of events, fifth-graders explore area during Eco Week, new publication details spending from 2010 Bond and Mill Levy Override, Rotary Teachers of the Year

Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 TSD prepares for 100-year anniversary, grandparents get a taste of school, spring production wins big, parents and community members learn about schools

Lunchbox. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

20 HEALTHCARE FOR ALL

ColoradoCare Amendment 69 is a bid for universal healthcare in Colorado by several organizations that came together under ColoradoCare. Your vote might come down to whether you believe healthcare is a right—that all people deserve access to healthcare—or a privilege that should be earned or paid for.

ABOUT THE COVER: Riddick, 3, likes ninja turtles, fighting with his twin and playing with his big brother and baby brother. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, courtesy of Sky's Open Design.

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perspective Trick or treat

OCTOBER 2016 • Volume 21, Issue 5

It’s up to you this fall…

PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

W

EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com

hen I was a young reporter 25 years ago, I covered a story about a boy who had had cancer and was recovering well. It seemed. I talked to his parents while we watched him play on a swing set in the back yard. The headline was ‘Jake is doing great.’

Everyone in town knew who Jake was because they’d been following his saga for a while.

In fact, many of them had donated money to help fund Jake’s huge medical bills. The problem was that Jake’s dad was between jobs.

He’d taken a promotion to manager in a different town with a different company. They knew that there would be a gap of a few weeks before the new job and therefore before the new health insurance was active. As things go, that’s when Jake woke up in the middle of the night screaming in pain. After a trip to the emergency room and some diagnostic tests, doctors discovered Jake’s cancer. Jake died a year or so later. His parents were left devastated and destitute.

That story has stuck with me.

Please read Marie Rieke’s story about Amendment 69, known as ColoradoCare. She sums up the basic provisions of the proposed universal healthcare amendment and then outlines the arguments for and against it.

She also lists organizations that support or object to it and recommends that you do some of your own research. It may be that the main issue, as she describes it, comes down to whether you believe that access to healthcare is a right or a privilege.

Next up: In Fort Collins, there is a Mill Levy and Bond Issue proposal on the ballot. I am unequivocally in support of this proposal. It’s an investment that is good for kids, community members and the local economy. Please read M.L. Johnson’s Time Out story that clearly outlines how investing in our schools is investing in our community.

In a related story, kind of, Kim Sharpe talks to some parents and their children about being involved in volunteering in the community.

Turns out that all of them learned a lot, and not necessarily what they thought they might learn, from leadership and speaking skills to discovering how it felt to be part of something that benefitted others.

And finally (as long as I’m previewing what’s in store for you this month), it’s fall festival and Halloween season…yay! In Family Activities, Katie Harris dishes on where to go for family frights and pumpkinny nights. While Lynn Nichols talks about focusing Halloween on fun and how to limit candy consumption. Reinforcing that is a story by Lea Hanson in Healthy Living about the not-so-sweet side of sugar. And if that’s not enough for you, Kim Sharpe dives into the intricacies of carving pumpkins in her Learn & Live department.

Boo, Scott

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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 Andy Titterington COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, M.L. Johnson Lynn Nichols, Marie Rieke, 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. ©2016 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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as we grow

More than candy

Have fun this Halloween with costumes, games, crafts and giving LY NN U. NICHOLS

F

or a lot of kids and adults Halloween ranks right up there as one of their favorite holidays. Yes, it revolves around candy, but dressing up, carving pumpkins and scaring friends is where the real fun lies. Here are some tips on casting candy in the minor role that it deserves this Halloween season.

FOCUS ON THE FUN Celebrate Halloween and make fun and games the focus, rather than just trickor-treating. Create an impromptu Halloween play with all the “characters” in costume, paint faces, make costumes together, decorate pumpkins, host a haunted house, read spooky books or tell spooky stories by flashlight.

GIVE CANDY TO A CAUSE Here’s a great opportunity to teach your kids about showing gratitude through giving. There are a few different programs that send Halloween candy to our troops overseas, giving a little sweetness to their long days.

One is the Halloween Buy Back.

Participating dentists (see side box) gather your Halloween candy and send it to the troops. Another is called Operation Gratitude. You can box up candy and send it directly to this organization by November 15.

Go to their website at https://opgrat. wordpress.com for details on what to send and to where.

TRICKS TO LIMIT CANDY INTAKE Most parents impose some sort of rules when it comes to Halloween candy. Others use subtle tricks to distract—especially for younger kids. An easy one is keeping candy out of their rooms and in an outof-sight place. Let them dump, sort and snack on their candy Halloween night, then gather the extra and put 8

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it in a freezer bag in the cupboard or in the fridge or freezer. By freezing candy you can delay doling it out for months to come. Freezing has the added bonus of kids having to wait for it to thaw, with fingers crossed that they lose interest before that happens.

Set limits preHalloween on how much candy a day your child can eat. Some parents say Halloween night is a free for all, then limit how many pieces their kids get a day. But before they hit the sidewalks, feed them a full dinner to lower their desires to fill their bellies with candy on the big night.

Artsy parents are known to use candy for crafts, helping kids build candy haunted houses (aka gingerbread houses) in the days following Halloween. Make pictures of ghosts, witches and scary faces with glue, paper and smaller candies and powders.

Of course you can trade candy for prizes, just like kids do with tickets earned from their favorite fun place. Ten candies equals a small prize, 20 equals a large. Before Halloween, gather small books, stickers, art supplies and toys so you are ready to bargain.

PRACTICE MODERATION Halloween is a great opportunity to teach the concept of moderation—and to talk about the health differences between foods. Explain how fruits and

vegetables not only taste good but also help our bodies grow, compared to candy that only tastes good and makes our bodies work.

A LESSON IN BODY CUES If your kids do overindulge and complain of a stomachache or feeling sick, use it as an opportunity to teach the skill of listening to their bodies when it comes to food.

Kids who learn cues for being hungry, full and how certain foods don’t sit well for them are more apt to have healthy eating habits overall. That’s because they learn to eat according to what their bodies are telling them rather than the clock.

Share your Halloween candy with our troops The following regional dental groups, among others, are participating in the national Halloween Buy Back program that sends candy to our troops overseas. Bring your candy to one of these locations, or search the website for a participating dentist closer to you at: www.halloweencandybuyback.com.

Front Range Dental Center 2720 Council Tree Avenue, STE 260 Fort Collins, CO, 80525 Phone: 970-673-7321 Ross Family Dentistry 1907 Boise Ave. Ste 5 Loveland, Co, 80538 Phone: (970) 667-1236 Wild For A Smile 1819 61st Avenue #101 Greeley, CO, 80634 Phone: 970-506-1339

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family activities

Fall festivals, frights and family fun

Corn mazes, pumpkin patches, hay rides, zombie paintball and more!

KATIE HARRIS

T

his month, get in the spirit of the season with a visit to a local fall festival, pumpkin patch, or evening haunt. These local attractions add new activities each season so it will be easy to spend a whole day riding in hay wagons, picking pumpkins, and getting lost in some of Colorado’s biggest and best corn mazes. Read on to find out which adventure is right up your family’s alley.

A petting zoo, corn maze, and “Antique Alley” of old tractors, trucks, and airplanes are just the beginning of your adventure at Miller Farm’s fall festival. While at the farm, you’ll have the opportunity to take a wagon out to the fields and harvest your own veggies, from potatoes to carrots to Indian corn.

You’ll even get to pick a pumpkin from the patch to take home with you. The cost is $20 per adult and $15 per child aged 4-12, or $65 per family of four, which includes five bags of produce per guest. The festival is open daily from 9am-6pm through mid-November.

Miller Farms is located at 13912 CR 19 in Platteville. More information can be found at www.millerfarms.net.

Located just south of Greeley, Fritzler’s Corn Maze is one of northern Colorado’s best known and oldest fall attractions. In its 16th year, the maze will feature two phases for guests to choose from: “challenging” and “thrilling”. In addition to daytime activities such as the jumping pillow, pig races, Slide Mountain, and a pumpkin patch, Fritzler’s nighttime haunt, “Scream Acres” will feature a haunted maze, ghost town haunt, and zombie paintball. Fritzler’s Corn Maze is open Fridays from 5-10pm, Saturdays from 11am-10pm, and Sundays from noon5pm through the end of October. Beginning on Oct. 12th Fritzler’s will also be open Wednesdays and Thursdays 10

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from 6-9pm. The maze is located at 20861 CR33 in La Salle. For ticket pricing visit www.fritzlermaze.com.

In Fort Collins, Something from the Farm offers hayrides, a corn maze, and corn cannon seven days a week.

A pumpkin trebuchet also operates on the weekends, for $5/throw. There is no entry fee to visit the farm and peruse the country store, which features fall decorations, home grown popcorn, and homemade jams. Something from the Farm is open 9am-6pm Monday through Saturday, and 10am-6pm on Sundays, through the end of October.

The farm is located at 8020 S. Timberline Rd. For more information visit

www.somethingfromthefarm.com.

Visit Anderson Farms in Erie this month to see the famous “giant pumpkin” for yourself—the local landmark, erected in 2012, sits atop a silo at the farm and is visible from Highway 52.

While you’re there, check out the farm animals, pumpkin patch, and pedal karts, and get lost in the 30-acre corn maze! Daring families can hop on a wagon through the nighttime maze for Terror in the Corn, or take part in the Zombie Paintball Hunt. Anderson Farms is open Thursdays through Sundays in October with Terror in the Corn beginning at 7pm. For details visit www.andersonfarms.com.

un F s ’ It shy l a r T a It’s cation Edu s ’ t I 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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learn and live

The art of Jack-o-lanterns Carve a pumpkin, carve out family fun

KIM SHARPE

Finding the great pumpkin

Pick the perfect pumpkin at a patch near (or not) to you Anderson Farms 6728 County Road 3 ¼, Erie.

303-828-5210, www.andersonfarms.com

Photo Courtesy of Jon Neill

Bartels Farm 3424 E. Douglas Rd., Fort Collins.

970-493-3853, www.thebartelsfarm.com Fritzler’s Corn Maize 20861 CR 33, LaSalle. 970-737-2129, www.fritzlermaze.com Grant Farms Harvestiva (Oct. 1 and 2 – open to public), 12155 NCR 15, Wellington. 970-286-0080 www.grantfarms.com

J

ack-o-lanterns have come a long way since Irish immigrants introduced them into the United States a couple centuries ago. Pumpkins are being carved to resemble everything from sports team logos to cute animals to elaborate art deco designs. And according to experts, you don’t need to be an artist to create your own special pumpkin.

Barry Brown, pumpkin carver extraordinaire, master crafter, musician and actor, and Jon Neill, a winner of the Food Network’s Halloween Wars for his pumpkin creations, emphasize that pumpkin carving shouldn’t be rushed and say patience is the No. 1 thing someone needs to create pumpkin art to be proud of.

There are various techniques to this fun fall craft, however. Brown prefers using a paper pattern when creating his squash sensations. Neill uses a photo or his mind’s eye to sculpt his prizewinners.

He says sculpting a pumpkin rather than cutting it up “puts a new twist on something we’ve all done.”

Here are tips from these pros about how to carve a pumpkin that will be the 12

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envy of your neighborhood: • Choose a pattern or a photo for your pumpkin design (a simple one to start).

Take it with you when you choose a pumpkin, “because pumpkins have personalities.

Choose one that’s right for your pattern,” says Brown. Neill says to “find a pumpkin that speaks to you and inspires you.”

• If you’re using a paper pattern, transfer the pattern to your pumpkin canvas with a toothpick or thumbtack. “It’s kind of like of like making a dot-to-dot,” Brown says.

Brown likes to open his pumpkins from the bottom because all the seeds and “goop” come out together. Neill doesn’t open out his pumpkins at all, because he believes they’ll last longer if they’re not exposed to air.

Brown recommends holding your pumpkin in your lap and sawing straight down onto it. Use a pumpkin carving tool set, too. They can be purchased at most stores that carry Halloween decorations and supplies.

If you have younger children, don’t underestimate their contributions to this

Harvest Farm 4240 E. County Road 66, Wellington.

970-568-9803 www.harvestfarm.net/fall-festival Miller Farms 13912 CR 19, Platteville. 970-785-6133, www.millerfarms.net/home.html Northern Colorado Corn Maze 2318 S. County Road 5, Fort Collins.

970-308-5843, http://nococornmaze.com Osborn Farm Pumpkin Patch 1230 S. Boise Ave., Loveland. 970-5411212, http://osborn.farm/#pumpkins Something From the Farm 8020 S. Timberline Rd., Fort Collins. 970282-1135, www.somethingfromthefarm.com Tigges Farm 12404 WCR 64 1/2, Greeley.

970-686-7225, www.tiggesfarm.com

activity. Brown recommends parents look at pumpkin carving as something to do with their kids, not for them. “Everyone can play a part, even if it’s simply holding the pumpkin, and when you’re finished, you can stand back together and say, ‘Wow, we did that!’”

Need inspiration for carving your special pumpkin? Visit www.barrybrown creative.com or www.johneill.com.

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community news

Plan to be happy and healthy Be prepared, eat veggies, support natural areas...

KIM SHARPE

I

t’s always wise to be prepared for what life throws at you. You can do that by taking steps to be safe, being educated, eating healthy and getting involved in your community. Follows are ways you can do it all.

BE PREPARED FOR EMERGENCIES Unknown events and disturbances can happen—anytime. That’s why Larimer County Commissioners are working to empower individuals and families to take needed steps toward planning for disturbances and the unknown.

Larimer County Director of Emergency Management Lori Hodges says, “Disturbances can occur at any time or place in day-to-day activities. It is only when those disturbances, such as power outages or water shortages, occur over a period of time that they become problematic. This is why we are providing education and workshops for community members to work through disturbances, rather than disasters.”

You can learn how to be prepared by visiting the county’s website at www. larimer.org/emergency and reviewing the information found under the “Preparedness” heading.

BE READY TO LEARN The Be Ready 2016-2017 school-year calendars are available to parents and caregivers at no cost. They include colorful images and tips about how to help infants, toddlers and preschool aged children be ready to learn.

The Be Ready Campaign for school readiness is the result of a partnership among Larimer County schools and community organizations. The intent of the campaign is that all of Larimer County’s parents, the medical community, employers, childcare providers, libraries, school districts, grocery stores, community and government agencies,

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faith communities and service organizations will share in the responsibility to make certain all children in the county will be ready to be successful when they start school.

Email beready@uwaylc.org or call 970-407-7069 to request a calendar.

FORT COLLINS HOUSING AUTHORITY CLOSES WAIT LISTS The Fort Collins Housing Authority has closed all its waiting lists due to the number of applications it currently has for affordable housing and that wait time is

several years long. If you have questions, contact Michele Christensen at michri stensen@fcgov.com or 970-416-2934.

FRUITS AND VEGGIES—MORE IS BETTER In Weld County, for children between the ages of one and 14 years, only one out of 10 eat the recommended five servings of fruit and vegetables per day, according to parent reports. For Weld County high school students, 29 percent consume two or more servings of fruit per day and 13 percent consume three or more servings of vegetables per day.

Photo Courtesy of City of Fort Collins

Among Weld adults, only 31 percent eat the recommend five servings.

“Eating enough fruits and vegetables is a great way to stay healthy and is a perfect fit for busy lives. As displayed by the MyPlate nutrition guide, Americans should make half their plate fruits and vegetables for meals and snacks. Small changes to your eating habits can lead to big differences,” acknowledges Mike Schwan, MS RD, Weld County Department of Public Health early childhood obesity prevention specialist. “Work to find ways to fit fruits and vegetables into your diet.” He suggests to “add fruit in cereal, grabbing fruit or raw vegetables for a snack, eating a big salad with lunch or dinner, keeping fruits and vegetables where you can see them, putting them in grab-and-go bags for convenience, or making a meal with a vegetable as the main course, such as stuffed peppers.”

Fruits and vegetables are nutritious and convenient to eat in any form: fresh, frozen, canned or dried. They provide fiber to fill you up and to keep your digestive system happy. Fruits and vegetables are naturally low in calories and eating them may lower the risk of many chronic illnesses, including heart disease, high blood pressure and some cancers.

One great place to buy fruits and vegetables is the Greeley Farmers’ Market. It is located in the south parking lot of the Greeley Chamber of Commerce at 902 7th Ave. The market is open from 7:30am-12noon every Saturday through the end of October.

Shoppers can use their SNAP benefits (Food Stamps/EBT) at the Greeley Farmers’ Market on all of the fresh foods available. Those with SNAP also can double their food dollars by participating in the Double Up Food Bucks

program. With this program, for every $1 of SNAP benefits spent, the customer will receive a $1 token to spend on fresh fruits and vegetables.

Visit www.healthyweld2020.com/ QuickLinks.html for more information.

MAKE FORT COLLINS’ NATURAL AREAS BETTER The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department (NAD) invites members of the Fort Collins community to propose enhancement projects for funding through the Natural Areas Enhancement Fund. The NAD encourages stewardship of all natural areas so financial assistance is available for projects to enhance or restore private or public natural areas in Fort Collins. The NAD is appropriating $15,000 from the citizen-initiated Open Space Yes! sales tax for the Enhancement Fund in 2016.

Examples of projects might include native tree and shrub plantings, removal of exotic pest trees, wetland restoration, or native grassland revegetation. Examples of eligible sites include privatelyowned City-certified natural areas such as those managed by homeowners’ associations, as well as publicly owned natural areas not managed by the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department, which could include wetlands and stream corridors within City parks or storm water detention areas. School projects also

may be eligible. Sites managed by the Natural Areas Department are enhanced through a separate funding source. Project proposals from private citizens, neighborhood groups, nonprofit organizations, school groups, and corporations are encouraged. City, County and Federal projects are not eligible for this fund.

Projects up to $15,000 will be considered; smaller budget projects ($2,000 or less) with a supporting volunteer commitment are encouraged. Funds are targeted for implementation of projects.

Planning projects and salary costs are not considered for funding.

To receive enhancement funds for privately-owned land, the property must first be certified as a natural area by the City. An application can be submitted at the same time as the Enhancement Fund application. In addition, the land must be at least ¼ acre in size and be within the limits of the Fort Collins Growth Management Area, but need not be within the City limits. Applicants must provide proof of project approval from landowner(s).

Applications must be submitted no later than 5pm, Friday, November 4. Incomplete or inaccurate applications will not be considered. Funds will be awarded in December 2016. Applications can be obtained online at www.fcgov. com/naturalareas/pdf/enhancementgrant-application16.pdf or by calling Karen Manci at 970-221-6310.

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healthy living

The not-so-sweet side of sugar Read labels to create a healthy diet for your family LEA HANSON

M

ost parents wish their kids would eat less sugar. The CDC recently reported that a whopping 16 percent of the calories kids consume comes from sugar. With more than one-third of American children and adolescents being obese—and about 20 percent in Colorado (state ofobesity.org)—too much sugar is an undeniable problem.

UNDERSTANDING THE PROBLEM Most of us know too much sugar is unhealthy. Many parents and caretakers avoid soda and juice boxes and think they’re solving the problem. Sadly, that’s not enough. Mike Schwan, Early Childhood Obesity Prevention Program Coordinator for the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment says, “Sugar sweetened beverages are the largest source of added sugar in the U.S. diet, and the highest consumers are children ages 12 to 19 years.”

Most processed foods include added sugars. And, processed foods don’t only include boxed dinners and sugary cereals. Most seemingly healthy foods including yogurt, pasta sauces, and simple loaves of bread have (sometimes shockingly high amounts of) added sugar and/or high-fructose corn syrup.

SUGAR-RELATED HEALTH PROBLEMS It’s no surprise that too much sugar can lead to cavities, weight gain, and hyperactivity. More severe and wellknown results of a diet high in sugar can include obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. Schwan says, “Obesity can lead to diseases in childhood such as heart disease, and breathing problems such as sleep apnea, that used to be only seen in adults. Social and psychological problems such as discrimination and low self-esteem also occur in children

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who are obese.” Shockingly, the rate of adolescents with high cholesterol and heart disease is even increasing and many attribute this change to sugary diets. Yet, the CDC warns us that sugar can also lead to other chronic yet avoidable health problems. Some of the most common side effects sugar can have in children include a weakened immune system and chronic suffering from coldlike symptoms more often than is normal or than other children do.

BENEFITS OF A HEALTHY DIET Our bodies are made us of trillions of “good bacteria” that digest food, produce vitamins, and protect from germs and disease. Too much sugar alters the balance between good and bad bacteria and weakens immune systems. In other words, if your child is sick with common, treatable illnesses “all the time”, one of the best first steps is to check their diet. Kids who fail to eat healthy amounts of fruits and vegetables are simply more susceptible to chronic runny noses, excessive mucus, cough and cold symptoms, and even symptoms of allergies (CDC National Center for Health Statistics).

MODELING GOOD EATING HABITS Schwan emphasizes the importance of parents modeling the way. “In addition, when parents and caretakers choose to drink water, and other healthy beverages such as low-fat or non-fat milk, children follow their example.” And, while sugar-sweetened beverages such as soda and fruit drinks should not be forbidden, they should be limited and only offered on occasion.

While change can seem daunting to some, even the smallest of changes can make a difference and be a first step toward a healthier lifestyle. Switching to an organic, lower sugar brand of cereal, replacing sports drinks with water, and replacing canned fruit with fresh fruit are all small steps that will instantly eliminate hundreds of sugary calories from your child’s diet.

Label reading can allow you to avoid making sweeping changes to your regular menu while drastically lowering the amount of sugar your family consumes. Teaching yourself which brands of bread, pasta sauce, peanut butter, etc. don’t have added sugar will change the way your shop and adjust the items you choose to buy.

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TIME, TALENT, TREASURE

Teach your children to give theirs to others Kim Sharpe

Y

ou don’t have to be rich— monetarily speaking—to give a lot away. Sometimes the best things you can offer others are a bit of your time and service.

BECOMING SERVANTS Yee Campbell, president of the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL), couldn’t agree more. That’s why she started the Fort Collins chapter in 2014.

“During their formative years of high school when so much of their life centers around themselves and their friends, YMSL gives young men an avenue to help those who are less fortunate in our community,” she says. “It opens their eyes to parts of our community that they may not be aware of if not for YMSL. Through their four years of giving their time and donating items in need, we hope this plants the seed for a lifetime of service and leadership.”

A special feature of YMSL is 18

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that the organization encourages mothers and sons to volunteer together.

Campbell explains, “ YMSL gives the opportunity for young men and moms to spend time together serving their community and enriching their relationship. Traditionally, organizations such as Boy Scouts or hobbies such as hunting often pair boys with their dads. Our organization is unique by providing moms that same quality time with their sons.”

Andrea O’Connell and her son Logan were two of the first members of northern Colorado’s YMSL. O’Connell says she joined because, “I want Logan to experience the joy of volunteering and to become a lifelong volunteer. I want it to be something that he just always does because it is natural and is so rewarding. I also love having the extra time with Logan and trying new experiences.”

Logan likes it, too. He says, “I participate in YMSL because I can spend quality time with my friends and my mom while also learning and giving back to the community. I like it because it will prepare me for my future.”

Another organization, the National Charity League (NCL), offers moms and their daughters opportunities to volunteer and learn about community service.

Phoebe McGuffee and her daughter Madeline participated in northern Colorado’s NCL chapter for several years and benefitted from their involvement in a variety of ways. Phoebe says, “Madeline and I discovered we

really love volunteering and that we can make a difference to others. It was also a huge benefit for both of us to learn leadership skills. Public speaking, one of my fears, was an important part of the NCL experience; we both learned we are capable of doing something that can be a bit intimidating!”

Madeline adds, “I gained so much understanding about where our society needs help. There are so many charities I knew little or nothing about, but that I very much enjoyed working with. It was fun and fulfilling to find ways to help the community; I now have more empathy and compassion for others.”

Karen Ramirez and her two daughters enjoyed working with people one-on-one during their NCL participation. They especially loved volunteering at Respite Care, Inc., with developmentally disabled children.

Ramirez says the experience helped her girls become service-oriented, which they’ve carried into their adult lives and careers. She’s benefitted from it, too. “I now provide medical care coordination for children and teens experiencing difficult circumstances. I thoroughly love my job and know that my volunteer experiences helped me to find a career that is very fulfilling,” she says.

MONEY MATTERS Since philanthropy often has a monetary side, teaching kids about giving of their treasure also is a valuable lesson.

The Junior Achievement ( JA) program, which operates in K-12 classrooms around the world, aims to do just that.

While the main goal of JA is to help students acquire financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurial skills, it also emphasizes philanthropy by encouraging students to volunteer and by including philanthropy as a line item in the budgeting exercises they use.

“It’s always important for students to know they can help themselves and their family and friends, but it’s just as important for them to consider how to give back to people who can’t help themselves,” says Kelsey Ransom, program manager for the JA program that operates in Northern Colorado and Wyoming.

IT’S ALL GOOD Service is a win-win for all involved.

When children learn how to serve others from a young age forward, the lessons get engrained in how they interact with the world.

Madeline sums it up: “Positive things stem from volunteering and building community.”

Connect and serve Junior Achievement— Northern Colorado/Wyoming District www.jacolorado.org, 970-490-1035 x. 2 National Charity League—Fort Collins https://fortcollins.nationalcharityleague.org Young Men’s Service League— Fort Collins Chapter www.ymslfortcollins.chapterweb.net 970-690-7544

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Amendment 69 Right or wrong for you?

Marie Rieke

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W

hether you are on the right or the left of the healthcare reform issue, you’ll get to voice your opinion this election season in Colorado. It’s a big topic, and there is a lot to weigh, like, is healthcare a right or a privilege? Should someone receive healthcare, even if they can’t afford it? Who should pay for those who can’t? Who should have ultimate control over healthcare? The patient? The doctor? The insurance company? The government? Do

universal healthcare systems work? It’s time to explore the issue, because ColoradoCare amendment 69, a bid for a single-payer healthcare system, will be on the November ballot.

You could spend hours researching this amendment to our state constitution, delving deep into the pros and cons of universal healthcare and looking at countries and US states that have given it a whirl. If you have the time and energy, go for it.

It’s great to be well informed. If you don’t, here’s a summary of the amendment and a few varying view points from leading political organizations to help you make your choice, along with a list of organizations to explore for more information.

WHAT IS AMENDMENT 69?

Amendment 69 is a bid for universal healthcare in Colorado by several organizations that came together under ColoradoCare. ColoradoCare would use an option under the Affordable Care Act that allows states to create their own healthcare programs. Healthcare coverage under the plan would be comprehensive for all residents except for those already covered under federal healthcare programs, and it would be governed under a co-op, or member-owned, business model. Every person and employer would pay in. It would be exempt from TABOR, Colorado’s Taxpayers Bill Of Rights.

WHAT IT COVERS According to creators of the plan, a single-payer system in Colorado would provide comprehensive benefits, including primary, emergency and urgent care, specialty care, preventive services, chronic disease management, mental health services, prescription drugs, dental, vision, laboratory, maternity care, end-of-life care and more.

It claims there would be no deductibles and preventive and primary care visits would be free of co-payments.

People would be allowed to choose their doctors, but if you are out of state and need care, finding a doctor might prove difficult. Opponents argue that specialty care could be limited.

WHO WILL PAY FOR IT? ColoradoCare says employers contributing 6.67 percent of payroll will pay for the new plan primarily through a 3.33 percent payroll deduction for employees. For a person who makes $50,000 a year, employers would have to pay $278 a month, and workers $139, according to their economic analysis (coloradocare.org).

An additional 10 percent income tax would be applied to non-payroll income. The organization says that our current system costs $30 billion and that it will cost $25 billion, saving everyone money.

Proponents such as The League of Women Voters of Colorado agree, stating that they favor a “health insurance plan financed through general taxes in place of individual insurance premiums,” and is opposed to a strictly

line, insurance companies are motivated to avoid big expenses (like certain life-saving measures or common problems experienced by the masses) because their main focus is not providing healthcare, but earning money.

On the other hand, we are used to this game. Would change be better?

Looking at other countries that have universal healthcare it seems like a mixed bag. For Canada, it works in that it covers everyone, even those with special needs. The cons are that it can result in long waiting periods for care when people don’t have an emergency, payments can be insufficient for physicians, accessibility in rural areas can be a challenge, and possibly quality suffers. Still, the majority in Canada says it works. When it comes to quality of care, Americans don’t think their care is any better, according to a

Who’s who – organizations for and against Amendment 69 FOR • League of Women Voters – Colorado • Colorado Foundation for Universal Health Care • Co-operate Colorado • ColoradoCare • American Postal Workers Union, Denver Metro Retiree Chapter

private-based model of financing the health care system.”

Opponents argue that costs will be much greater and when costs exceed predictions residents will be asked to pay more and more through taxes. Those against also say it is unfairly expensive for employers.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT It’s obvious the current system has problems. The biggest being the high cost of healthcare that’s unaffordable for most of us without an insurance plan. Having an insurance company holding the power over what healthcare expense they will, or will not, pay for ranges from unsettling for most of us to life threatening for a few. Bottom

AGAINST • Colorado Republican Committee • Advancing Colorado • Coloradans for Coloradans • The Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers

Gallup poll that showed 53 percent of Americans rated the quality of their healthcare as good or excellent, compared to 52 percent of Canadians and 55 percent of Great Britain residents.

Undoubtedly, it’s a challenge for businesses. The Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers uses strong language, claiming it would “nearly wipe out Colorado’s private market for group health plans as we know it.” Others claim it would drive businesses away from our state, including Governor Hickenlooper.

However you slice it, you have a tough decision at the polls. Go seek more information and put it all on the scales. No matter what, get out and vote on November 8.

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greeley-evans district 6 news Jefferson High partners with Habitat to build home • Monday, December 5, Bella Romero Academy 4-8 Campus, 1400 E. 20th St. • Monday, February 6, Brentwood Middle School, 2600 24th Avenue Ct. • Monday, March 13, Early College Academy, 5590 West 11th St. • Monday, April 3, Transportation Office, 155 East 27th St. • Monday, May 1, District 6 Service Center, 2508 4th Ave.

Students enrolled in the construction management program at Jefferson High School will help build the first home in the new Crestview Subdivision, a Greeley Area Habitat for Humanity community.

Oralia Ramirez and her six children will inhabit the home. The Crestview Subdivision is located on 29th Street Road, just west of 11th Avenue.

Last September, Greeley-Evans School District 6 sold the 2.7-acre parcel to Habitat for Humanity for $40,000. Originally, the school district used the property to start and grow trees, which were then transferred to schools and other District 6 property.

However, the property hasn’t been used for that purpose for years.

Now, the first home in the subdivision will be built by District 6 students, a full-circle moment created through a valuable community partnership, says Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch.

“A family will have a new, safe home and a group of students will have an incredible learning opportunity, maybe even a new career,” Dr. Pilch says. “Partnerships like this make a difference in the lives of our students and in this community.”

Students will spend two days a week at the construction site. Jefferson Principal Larry Green says three Saturday construction sessions will also be held with the students and other community volunteers. The family must also contribute 500 hours of “sweat equity,” or volunteer service, in the construction of their Hab24

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itat home. The family will own the home and Habitat will carry the mortgage for 20 years until they pay off the loan.

“My heart is full today,” Green says at the groundbreaking ceremony.

DISTRICT 6 HOSTS SEVENTH ANNUAL CITIZENS ACADEMY Greeley-Evans School District 6 is now accepting applications for its seventh annual Citizens Academy beginning October 3, a program that gives residents the opportunity for an up-close look at the 14th largest school district in Colorado.

The Citizens Academy will be held on a Monday each month during the 2016-17 school year, from 11am – 1pm, at various sites throughout the district.

Participants will tour facilities, visit classrooms, meet staff and learn about aspects of the district. Topics covered include district finances, curriculum, school safety, programs such as Career Pathways and blended learning, classroom management, athletics and extracurricular activities, transportation services, student nutrition, facility maintenance and much more.

Most importantly, residents will get the chance to have their questions answered directly by those involved in educating and offering services to more than 21,000 students in District 6.

Here is the full schedule of meetings: • Monday, October 3, District 6 Administration Building, 1025 9th Ave. • Monday, November 7, Meeker Elementary School, 2221 28th Ave.

There is no cost to attend the Citizens Academy, and participants will receive lunch. The class size will be small in order to allow in-depth conversations.

To register for the Citizens Academy, visit www.greeleyschools.org/ citizensacademy and fill out a short application. Or to find out more information, please contact Communications Director Theresa Myers at 348-6003 or tmyers@greeleyschools.org. Enrollment is limited, so please register by Monday, September 26.

SCHOOLS CELEBRATE COLORADO PROUD SCHOOL MEAL DAY Fresh local carrots? Check! Yummy locally grown beef? Check! Potatoes grown right here in Weld County? Check!

Greeley-Evans School District 6 Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch ate lunch with kindergarten students at Billie Martinez Elementary School as part of Colorado Proud School Meal Day in area schools.

The District 6 Nutrition Services Department provided a lunch made with locally grown products, including the beef in the Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, the jalapeno cheddar potatoes and much of the produce on the salad bar. District 6 works with many local producers, including Leffler Family Farms, Legacy Meats, LLC, Tigges Farm, Hungenberg Produce and many more.

The Colorado Departments of Agriculture and Education established Colorado Proud School Meal Day to Celebrate Colorado agriculture and education students about good nutrition.

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poudre school district news Fifth graders explore during Eco Week

“Oh man, look at that thing!”

The shout came from the front of a group of fifth graders hiking through Bobcat Ridge natural area on a sunny fall morning in September. Eagerly, the students tumbled over each other to form a half-moon around a praying mantis on the side of the path.

The hike was part of Eco Week, an annual event for fifth graders in the district that uses ecological lessons, guided hikes, and an overnight trip to the mountains to teach science and social studies standards. The program is designed to help students develop a sense of stewardship and ethical responsibility for the natural world.

“I like the outdoors and being in it,” said fifth grader Brendan Johnson as he walked through a brown, open meadow. “This is really hands on. It’s cool to learn about all the animals and different plants and what eats each other. “ Volunteer nature guides stopped by ant hills, pointed out scat, and explained the different mini ecosystems to students on the day-long field trip.

“We’re sharing the outdoors with 26

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other people, helping them to appreciate what they have and the natural areas,” volunteer Rob Butcher, a retiree, explained. “I see this as a sharing quest and a learning quest.”

The discoveries continued throughout the week, as students visited Pingree Park in the mountains and the Poudre Learning Center in Greeley.

“Having an outdoor classroom really helps motivate the kids,” teacher Adrienne Steinle said. “This gives them an opportunity to learn better than they would just sitting in a chair. They’ll remember this for the rest of their lives.”

NEW PUBLICATION DETAILS SPENDING FROM 2010 BOND AND MILL LEVY OVVERRIDE Curious about how PSD spends funds provided by the 2010 Bond and Mill Levy Override? A new publication is designed to do exactly that.

PSD Promises (www.PSDpromises .com) will take you on a deep dive through ongoing bond-funded construction projects, new tech initiatives, and special projects teachers have conceptualized and

executed using grants funded by the mill. You’ll see creative projects and the impacts they’ve had on PSD schools.

As a taxpayer-funded organization, PSD is conscious of how we spend the money our community graciously provides. We want community members to trust that we are spending their hardearned dollars responsibly and for the betterment of students.

The publication is organized into three main categories: • Technology in our schools • Academic excellence • Bond projects We hope that as you look through this publication you are reassured that your tax dollars are supporting programs with a positive impact on student learning and achievement across all PSD schools.

Thank you for your support of PSD, our students, staff and schools.

MEET THE ROTARY TEACHERS OF THE YEAR Each year, the three Rotary clubs in Fort Collins select a teacher as the Rotary Teacher of the Year who exemplifies excellence in teaching and community service. Meet this year’s winners: Frank Martinez struggled when he attended Lincoln Middle as a preteen.

“I was one of those kids who could’ve gone either way,” he said. “I was getting an F in algebra, but then I got switched into Mrs. Leisure’s class. She made it easy, simple. I enjoyed it. My F turned into an A. She changed my attitude about math,” he said.

PSD Calendar of Events Oct. 11 ....... B oard of Education Meeting, 2407 Laporte Avenue. Fort Collins Oct. 13 ....... E lementary schools not in session Oct. 14 ....... N o school K-12 Oct. 25 ....... B oard of Education Meeting, 2407 Laporte Avenue. Fort Collins

FRANK MARTINEZ

ROBERT PAPP

EILEEN MOORE

Her teaching was so influential that Frank became a math teacher, and decided it was time to return to his alma mater to provide the same sort of assistance to other kids that he received himself.

“Now I see kids like that, and I’m like ‘Hey — you can do it. I’ve seen so many people from here do it. You’ll be fine, and you may even be great,” he said. “Being a teacher is my opportunity to thank all those people who helped me growing up.”

Robert Papp was on a plane heading to Washington, D.C. on September 11, 2001. He remembers the pilot coming on the loudspeaker to tell the passengers about the terrorist attacks, and

wondering if he would make it home to his one-month-old son.

“It was really one of those life changing experiences,” he said. “I decided then to pursue my passion — teaching is something I’ve always wanted to do.”

He joined Rocky Mountain High School six years ago, and found a home in the business department.

“A lot of what we’re doing is preparing students for those next steps. To know that I have a hand in shaping what they want to do or the thoughts they have is very rewarding as a teacher,” he said.

Eileen Moore, first grade teacher at Putnam Elementary, is known for her

tireless devotion to her students.

“Being a teacher, I get to give our students love and help them re-write the narratives about who they are and what they’re capable of,” she said.

Developing the whole child is a particular passion of hers. While she works hard to help students meet academic goals, she puts equal effort into socioemotional development.

“I get to teach them that if you try your best and you’re kind to others, you can change your life story. I love teaching because I get to connect with students and help them reach their potential,” she said.

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thompson school district news TSD prepares for a 100-year anniversary

Nearly 100 years ago, the doors of a state-of-the-art school building were opened to the public for the first time at 370 W. 4th Street in Loveland. Serving as Loveland High School until the creation of the campus at its current location in 1963, the tan brick building continued to transform along with the community it serves. Today, it is known as Bill Reed Middle School, home to nearly 700 students in grades 6-8.

Next year will mark the 100-year anniversary of the opening of the school building. To recognize the special occasion, students, staff and community members have begun creating a celebration that will be worthy of the legacy that the facility has built within the community. Four exploratory committees have been formed to examine potential activities and lead the possible planning efforts: • Community mural project—This committee will explore the possibility of creating a centennial community mural that can be featured outdoors on the Bill Reed Middle School campus.

• Fundraising/sponsorship—The Fundraising and Sponsorship committee will work with local businesses and donors to secure the financial and 28

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volunteer support necessary to produce a community celebration event.

• Event planning—This committee will work with Bill Reed Middle School students, families, staff and other community supporters to design and produce the overall centennial event.

• Communication/marketing— The Communication and Marketing committee will provide and compile materials for upcoming fundraising opportunities. It will also lead the public relations efforts of the celebration.

For more information on the planning process and to join a committee, please contact Bill Reed Middle School principal Arnold Jahnke at 613-7206 or at arnold.jahnke@thompsonschools.org.

GRANDPARENTS GET A TASTE OF SCHOOL TSD schools joined the community last month in celebrating National Grandparents Day. During the week of September 12, grandparents from throughout the district were invited to visit the schools and eat lunch, have a snack or participate in fun activities. In 1978, the United States Congress passed legislation proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents

Day. A presidential proclamation was signed by President Jimmy Carter and with that action, observation of this special holiday was begun. Thompson School District says “Thank You” to all of our special grandparents for their support and dedication to our students.

SPRING PRODUCTION WINS BIG Congratulations to Thompson Valley High School’s spring production of “Big Fish,” which earned a whopping eight “National Youth Arts” awards!

• Outstanding Production • Outstanding Direction • Outstanding Lead Actor in a Musical—Sam Strawbridge • Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical—John Texeira • Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical—Melissa Foreman • Outstanding Costume Design— Debra Faber • Outstanding Lighting Design— Morgan Lessman & Jacob Gentrup • Outstanding Set Design—Neil Faber The regional ceremony was held on September 18 at the D.L. Parsons Theatre in Northglenn.

PARENTS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS LEARN ABOUT SCHOOLS Thompson School District is pleased to announce the return of “Explore Thompson,” an eight-month in-depth program designed to take community members on a journey throughout the district, learning new things and making new friends. The program is ideal for parents and community members who would like to learn more about their schools and the district.

“Explore Thompson” will cover nearly every aspect of the district and school structure.

Meetings will be held on the third Thursday of each month from October through May from 9:30am to 12pm.

For more information and to enroll, please visit www.thompsonschools.org.

Hey Fort Collins, Visit our NEW Location!

1200 South College Avenue

Preschool Dance, KinderDance, Jazz, Lyrical, HipHop, Ballet, Tap, & More!

It’s Not Too Late to Register for Fall Classes!

GREELEY | WINDSOR | EATON | FORT COLLINS

(970) 590-9530

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lunchbox POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT—Elementary student lunches are $2.55, secondary student lunches are $2.80 and reduced lunches are PK-5 free, grades 6-12 $0.40.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 3 Hot dog; pizza burger 4 Cheese ravioli 5 Orange chicken; hamburger/ cheeseburger 6 Beef & bean burrito; chicken nuggets 7 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; turkey & cheese wrap 10 Toasted cheese sandwich & tomato soup; chicken drumstick 11 Lasagna w/veggies; chicken bites & roll 12 Cheese or chicken pizza 13-14 No school!

17 Philly cheesesteak; chicken nuggets

18 Spaghetti & meatballs; hot dog 19 Teriyaki chicken w/rice; hamburger/ cheeseburger 20 Chicken taco bake; cheese ravioli 21 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; Mediterranean pasta salad 24 Grilled chicken sandwich; mac n’cheese 25 Cheesy chicken pasta bake; turkey gravy & roll 26 Asian noodles w/chicken; trout treasures 27 Chicken burrito; chicken patty sandwich 28 Meat lovers or cheese pizza; chicken Caesar wrap 31 Hot dog; pizza burger

MIDDLE SCHOOLS 3 Philly cheesesteak 4 Cheese calzone dipper w/marinara; penne & meat sauce 5 Asian bar: sweet & sour beef/chicken 6 Beef & bean burrito bar 7 Toasted cheese sandwich w/tomato soup 10 Pizza burger; chicken nuggets 11 Meatball sub; cheese ravioli 12 Asian bar: Teriyaki chicken/beef & egg roll 13 Beef & chicken taco bar 14 No school!

17 Chicken parm sandwich; pulled pork sandwich 18 Lasagna w/veggies; chicken nuggets 19 Asian bar: Orange beef/chicken 20 Beef & bean burrito bar 21 Turkey gravy & roll; chicken drumsticks 24 Chicken bites & roll; mac n’cheese 25 Cheesy chicken pasta bake; meatball sub 26 Asian Bar: Thai chili chicken/steak w/egg roll 27 Beef & chicken taco bar 28 Chili cheese dog; potato bar w/chili 31 Philly cheesesteak

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT—Elementary lunches are $2.75. Secondary school lunches are $3. Reduced lunches are PK-5 free, grades 6-12 $0.40.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 3 Crispy chicken sandwich; Caesar salad w/roll 4 Los Cabos Enchiladas; chicken tender salad w/roll 5 Pizza; chef salad w/roll 6 Chicken breast nuggets; taco salad 7 No school 10 Domino’s pizza 11 Domino’s pizza 12 Domino’s pizza 13 & 14 No school!

17 Hamburger; Caesar salad w/roll 18 Burrito; Chicken tender salad w/roll 19 Meat lasagna; chef salad w/roll

20 Orange chicken w/rice; taco salad 21 Chicken strip basket; garden entrée salad w/goldfish 24 Grilled chicken sandwich; Caesar salad w/roll 25 Chicken burrito bowl; chicken tender salad 26 Pizza stick; chef salad w/roll 27 Frito pie; taco salad 28 Chicken drumstick w/creamy rice 31 Bosco sticks w/marinara sauce; Caesar salad w/roll

SECONDARY SCHOOL 3 Crispy chicken sandwich; French bread boat 4 Los Cabos Enchiladas; Chicken dipper bites 5 Pizza; hamburger 6 Chicken breast nuggets; Orange chicken w/rice 7 No school 10 Pizza stick w/sauce; hot sandwich 11 Soft taco; chicken breast nuggets 12 Farmers’ breakfast; chicken strip basket 13 & 14 No school!

17 Hamburger; pizza stick w/sauce 18 Burrito; Chicken breast nuggets

19 Meat lasagna; crispy chicken sandwich 20 Orange chicken w/rice; Domino’s pizza 21 Chicken strip basket; pretzel w/cheese sauce 24 Grilled chicken sandwich; French bread boat 25 Chicken burrito bowl; Buffalo chicken bites 26 Pizza stick; hamburger 27 Frito pie; Orange chicken w/rice 28 Chicken drumstick w/cheesy rice; hot sandwich 31 Bosco sticks w/marinara sauce; Chicken & waffles

GREELEY DISTRICT 6— Elementary lunches are $2.55, and middle school lunches are $2.80, reduced-price lunches are K-2 free, 3-8 $.40.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 3 BBQ pork sandwich; beef hoagie 4 Buffalo chicken sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 5 Chicken soft taco; PBJ 6 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; turkey & cheese hoagie 7 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 10 Mac n’cheese w/roll; beef hoagie 11 Soft shell taco; chicken salad sandwich 12 Chicken gumbo w/green chili & cornbread; PBJ 13 Bean & cheese burrito; ham & cheese wrap 14 No school!

17 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; Italian sandwich sandwich 18 Cheese enchiladas w/fiesta rice; chicken fajita wrap 19 Shepherd’s pie w/roll; PBJ 20 Baked ziti w/breadstick; turkey & cheese hoagie

21 Cheese or pepperoni pizza; PBJ 24 Cheese ravioli w/red sauce and bread stick; beef hoagie 25 Chili w/cinnamon roll; pesto chicken salad wrap 26 Hamburger/cheeseburger; PBJ 27 Pot roast w/dinner roll; ham & cheese wrap 28 cheese or chicken, bacon, ranch pizza; PBJ 31 BBQ pork sandwich; beef hoagie MIDDLE SCHOOL 3 Breakfast for lunch; Italian sandwich 4 Herb chicken w/roll; chicken fajaita wrap 5 Chicken soft taco; PBJ 6 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; turkey & cheese hoagie 7 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 10 Mac n’cheese w/roll; chicken Caesar wrap 11 Soft shell taco; pepperoni jalapeno panino 12 Chicken parm w/spaghetti; PBJ

13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 31

Bean & cheese burrito; ham & cheese wrap No school!

Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; Italian sandwich Cheese enchiladas w/fiesta rice; chicken fajita wrap Shephard’s pie w/roll; PBJ Baked zito w/breadstick; turkey & cheese hoagie Cheese or pepperoni pizza; PBJ Cheese ravioli w/red sauce & bread stick; beef hoagie Chili w/cinnamon roll; pesto chicken salad wrap Hamburger/cheeseburger; PBJ Pot roast w/roll; ham & cheese wrap Cheese or chicken, bacon, ranch pizza; PBJ Breakfast for lunch; Italian sandwich

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT—Price for elementary lunch is $2.75, for middle school students, $3. Reduced lunches are elementary, free; middle school, $0.40.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 3 Cheese breadstick w/marinara; PBJ 4 Chicken soft tacos; mini cheeseburgers 5 French toast sticks w/yogurt; pancake wrapped sausage 6 Chicken sandwich; PBJ 7 No lunch served 10 Mini cheese quesadilla; PBJ 11 Chicken Alfredo; mini cheese burgers 12 Chicken & black bean; corndog 13 Hamburger; PBJ 14 No lunch served

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17 Mac n’cheese; PBJ 18 Hard shell taco; mini cheeseburgers 19 Popcorn chicken; corndog 20 Pancakes; PBJ 21 Big Daddy’s cheese pizza; turkey & cheese sub 24 Cheesy nachos; PBJ 25 Mini cheese ravioli; mini cheeseburgers 26 Teriyaki chicken; corndog 27 Chicken tenders; PBJ 28 Big Daddy’s cheese pizza; turkey & cheese sub

31 Cheese pizza; PBJ SECONDARY SCHOOL 3 Fish sticks w/fries 4 French bread pizza 5 Bean & cheese burrito 6 Meatball sub 7 No lunch served 10 Mini cheese quesadilla w/tomato soup 11 Chicken Alfredo 12 Chicken & black bean chili 13 Cheeseburger 14 No school lunch

17 Mac n’cheese bar 18 Hard shell taco 19 BBQ pulled pork sandwich 20 Cinnamon glazed French toast w/sausage patties 21 Steak & cheese sub 24 Potato bar 25 Lasagna 26 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice 27 Turkey & gravy 28 Pepperoni calzone 31 Hamburger

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OCTOBER 2016 ONGOING OCTOBER 4 & 5 On the Wing: Everything about Birds and Birding Join Kevin Cook for his popular series exploring Colorado’s Nature.

Times vary. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-962-2599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

OCTOBER 13 & 14 School’s Out Day Camp Camp Have fun gardening, cooking, crafting and discovering! 5-11 year olds. $45/child/day (scholarships available). Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 9am-4pm.

970-416-2486, www.fcgov.com/gardens.

OCTOBER 14, 15, 16, 22 & 29 The Adventures of Sherlock of Holmes Debut Theatre Company reintroduces this classic tale with modern twists.$8. Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. Times vary. 970-221-6730, www.lctix.com.

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS POD Open Hours Create. Build. Make. Learn. Join us in the Place of Discovery at Centennial Park Library to tinker with some fun and exciting technology and participate in maker activities! Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 4-7pm. 888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

TUESDAYS THROUGH NOVEMBER 22 The Incredible Years Parenting Group This 12-week program for families with children 2-10 years sets the stage for sensitive, nurturing and competent parenting that fosters positive social behaviors. Dinner and childcare included.

Call to sign up. Life Center, 1511 E. 11th St., LV. 5-6:30pm. 970-494-4243, www. ecclc.org.

WEDENESDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER Messy Hands Art for Preschoolers Preschoolers age 3 1/2-6 explore and create original works of art in paint, paper maché, sculpture and printmaking.

Caregivers participate with children. All materials provided. Registration required.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10-11am. 970-221-6740, www. poudrelibraries.org.

TUESDAYS THROUGH DECEMBER 20 Elementary Chess Club Learn to play chess with instructors who are experienced in teaching children. Ages 6-11. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 4-5:30pm. 970-962-2587, www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

WEDNESDAYS THROUGH NOVEMBER 30 Zirkel Buddy Reading Game A board game where children choose their reading material, read with a trained Buddy Reader, roll the dice and talk about what they’re reading as they move up the trail to the top of Mt Zirkel. 6-ll year olds.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 4-5pm. 970-962-2587, www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

WEDNESDAYS, OCTOBER 5-NOVEMBER 2 Reading Bugs Book Club: Bunnicula!

In this five-week book club series members will receive a free copy of the book, listen to the story, make a craft, enjoy a snack and participate in a lively book discussion.

Ages 6-8. Registration required. WindsorSeverance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 3:45-4:45pm. 970-686-5603, www. clearviewlibrary.org.

THURSDAYS Intercambio Practice your Spanish while helping other learners in a friendly environment.

Participants will speak half the time in English and half in Spanish. Beginners welcome. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 6pm. 888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

Hours of Operation: M-Th 8-5pm, Fri 8-4 Fort Collins (970) 493-7442

Loveland (970) 493-7442

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

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FRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 7 Downtown Summer Sessions A Friday evening concert series in Downtown that features a diverse line up of Colorado musical acts and local beer.

Old Town Square, FC. 7-10pm. 970-4846500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Do’s and Don’ts of Couponing New couponers will be guided through the basics of how to use coupons and how to save money on just about everything. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 6:30pm. 888861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

FIRST FRIDAYS THROUGH DECEMBER 7 A Night of Art in Downtown Greeley A collaborative effort by many of Downtown Greeley’s creative industries, unique small businesses and delicious dining options. Various locations. GR. 970356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

OCTOBER 3 An Evening with Paula McLain Historical fiction author Paula McLain will discuss her two bestselling novels, The Paris Wife and Circling the Sun. Fort Collins Hilton, 425 W. Prospect Rd., FC. 7pm. 970-484-7898, www. oldfirehousebooks.com.

SATURDAYS Discovery Zone at the Gardens Have fun, get dirty, and learn about nature at The Gardens! All ages. Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10am12noon. 970-416-2486, www.fcgov.com/ gardens.

OCTOBER 4 Tiny Trekkers Designed for your 2-5-year-old and you.

Crafts, stories and fun facts! Free with required registration. Devils Backbone Open Space, Hwy 34., LV. 10-11am. 970-6194565, www.larimer.org/NRregistration.

Interesting Reader Society (IRS) Meeting The IRS is the teen advisory group for the library. Members meet monthly to advise library decision makers, talk about books, plan and participate in library programs, more! Ages 13-18. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., or Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 11am-1pm. 970221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

Parent Tele-call Support Group Group facilitated by Parent Whisperer Mary Dravis-Parrish, author and parent coach. Open to parents with children of all ages. Registration and $3-5 donation requested. 7-8pm. www.BeYouParenting. com/events.

SATURDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER Kids Explore Art Kids in grades K-5 explore and create unique works of art. Wear clothes that can get messy! All materials provided.

Registration required. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10-11:30am. 970221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

ImagineArt Tweens and teens in grades 5-8 explore and create unique works of art in paint, clay, sculpture and printmaking. Wear clothes that can get messy! All materials provided. Registration required. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1-3pm.

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

OCTOBER 1 Mother/Daughter Time Join Colorado author Snitbhan for a free workshop on mother/daughter bonding and her new book, Girl Time. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm.

970-484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

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OCTOBER 5 Walk to School Day Kids around the world are encouraged to walk to school on this day! Find out what activities your school has planned at walkbiketoschool.org.

Nature Photography for Teens Discover how to take incredible photos with the camera on your cellphone. Bring a cellphone with camera capacity. Free with required registration. Nix Farm, 1745 Hoffman Mill Rd., FC. 4:30-6:30pm. www. naturetracker.fcgov.com.

Rainbow Pumpkins Catch a rainbow, melt it on a pumpkin and create works of art! Ages 9+. Registration required. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

OCTOBER 6 Japanology If you love sushi and having fun, come to this introduction to Japanese culture and food. Presented by the UNC Asian Studies Program. Grades 6-12. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 4:30pm.

888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Science Behind the Scenery- Prairie Dogs, Plague, and Black-Footed Ferrets Learn about the dynamic relationships on Soapstone Prairie and the ferrets’ first year of living there. Adults. Free with required online registration. Nix Farm, 1745 Hoffman Mill Rd., FC. 7-8pm. www. naturetracker.fcgov.com.

OCTOBER 7 Noches en Familia (Family Nights) An afternoon in community and family with children’s stories, crafts, puppets and music in Spanish, that invites fluent speakers, as well as those interested in the Spanish language. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 5-6pm. 970221-6740, www.read.poudrelibraries.org/ events.

Travel to England!

Travel to England through food and crafts!

Ages 12-18. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 5-7pm. 970-686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Fall Foliage by Bike Enjoy a guided ride through Fort Collins to view the fall foliage. All ages.

Registration required. Location given at registration. 5:15-6:30pm. www.fcgov.com/ recreator.

Skygazing at Fossil Creek Reservoir Volunteers from the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society provide telescopes for your viewing pleasure and share their knowledge about stars, planets, galaxies, more. Free with required online registration. Fossil Creek Reservoir, 3340 Carpenter Rd., FC. 7:30-9:30pm. 970416-2815, www.naturetracker.fcgov.com.

OCTOBER 8 Minecraft Mania for Kids Play Minecraft on the library’s server, enjoy light snacks, make a craft. Laptops provided. Grades 3-5. Registration required. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 10-11:30am. 970-221-6740, www. poudrelibraries.org.

Families Matter: Taking Care of Your Teeth Tooth Town teaches you how to make your child’s teeth last a lifetime. Social time and snacks provided. Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 11am. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Book your child’s dental exam today!

FREE EXAM

for children under 2!

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

970-635-4353

126 East 29th Street Loveland

www.kindergrins.com Monday - Thursday 8-5

$75 New Patient Exam

FREE light-up toothbrush

Includes Exams, Cleaning, Fluoride, X-Rays.

for NEW patients

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

One coupon per family. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit.

Expires: 10/31/16 RMP 1016

Expires: 10/31/16 RMP 1016

DO SOMETHING FOR

Yourself!

FITNESS CLASSES FOR MOMS ON-THE-GO visit www.fortcollinsclub.net for schedules

· · · ·

Group Power FCC Club Fit Zumba Water Aerobics

· · · ·

UJAM Spin Yoga Pilate

Take the online Life Traits Quiz and get 2 weeks of

FREE MEMBERSHIP! (New Members Only)

970-224-CLUB

1307 East Prospect Road

Fort Collins, CO 80525

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Masquerade Ball Make your own costume mask and play basketball, baseball, golf, more! Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 1pm.

888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Black-Footed Ferret Exploration Presentation about the black-footed ferret with a 1-2-mile moderate hike in search of this elusive resident. Free with online registration. Nix Farm, 1745 Hoffman Mill Rd., FC. 4:30-9:30pm. 970-4162815, www.naturetracker.fcgov.com.

OCTOBER 9 Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Enjoy good books and the opportunity to read to friendly animals.

Grades K-5. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

OCTOBER 10 Symphony! Music Presentation & Lecture Series Learn about the Shostakovich Symphony No. 12. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-9622599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

OCTOBER 11 Anime Club Teens gather together after school to watch anime favorites, chat about manga and munch on snacks. Grades 6-12.

Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 4-5:30pm. 970-221-6740, www.read.poudrelibraries.org/events.

Money Matters: Understanding Credit Scores Learn the credit scoring system works, how to obtain your reports and scores, plus get specific strategies to improve your score. Presented in partnership with the Rocky Mountain Chapter of Credit Unions. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

OCTOBER 12 Lunchtime Parent Support Group Group facilitated by Parent Whisperer Mary Dravis-Parrish, author and parent coach. Open to parents with children of all ages. Registration and $3-5 donation requested. Thrive Wellness Center, 149 W. Harvard St., Ste. 401, FC. 11:30am12:30pm. www.BeYouParenting.com/events.

Loomy Knitters Charitable Group An industrious group that makes and donates handmade items to local and worldwide organizations. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 1-3pm.

970-962-2599 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

OCTOBER 13 Discovery Zone Kids and parents explore and create together. This month we’ll make monsters out of play-dough and other odds and ends. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. #200, FC. 11am-1pm.

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

Pokemon Go Screenprinting Make your own t-shirt with your favorite Pokémon GO team insignia! Bring a shirt to screenprint. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

World Language Story Time in Russian A time of children’s stories, crafts, puppets and music that invites fluent speakers, as well as those interested in a new language.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 5:30-6:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

NoCo Farmer’s Markets Enjoy locally grown produce and other food stuffs at Farmers Markets

TUESDAYS AND SATURDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER Loveland Farmers Market In front of Hobby Lobby, 3133 N. Garfield Ave., LV. 11am-3pm. www. fortcollinsfm.com.

THURSDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER Wellington Farmers Market 3815 Harrison Ave., Centennial Park, Wellington. 4-8pm (or dusk). www. wellingtoncofarmersmarket.org.

SATURDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 22 Larimer County Farmers Market Larimer County Courthouse parking lot, 200 W. Oak St., FC. 8am-12noon. www.larimercountyfarmersmarket.colostate.edu/index.shtml.

SATURDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 29 Greeley Farmers Market Union Pacific Depot, 902 7th Ave., GR. Wednesdays-3-6pm; Saturdays7:30am-12noon. 970-339-2417 or www.greeleygov.com.

SUNDAYS THROUGH MID-NOVEMBER Fort Collins Farmers Market Parking lot of ACE Hardware, 1001 E. Harmony Road, FC. 11am-3pm. www.fortcollinsfm.com.

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Fortified Farm Dinners

Our farm dinners showcase the very best our region has to offer in locally grown food, culinary creativity and community collaboration.

Every dinner raises funds for a local non-profit.

Caring for your children like we would our own!

Join us for a delicious dinner on the farm!

OCTOBER 15 5th Annual Bounty and Brews Beer Dinner at Bath Gardens

Board-Certified

Pediatrician

................

NOVEMBER 12 Mad Farmer Dinner Wolverine Farm Letterpress & Publick House ................

For tickets and more information, visit:

FortifiedCollaborations.com

Locally and Independently owned Same-day sick visits Well-child care School & sports physicals

Urgent Care Hours: M-F, 8-9am and 4-5:30pm

Conveniently located to Loveland, Johnstown, Greeley, Windsor and Berthoud at the intersection of I-25 and Hwy 34.

970-619-8139 | 4880 Thompson Pkwy | Suite 116 Johnstown

www.trpeds.com

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How Big is Your Digital Footprint?

Explore what it means to be a good digital citizen and minimize your digital footprint. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-8:30pm.

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

There’s a Zombie in the Basement!

Young readers will enjoy this monster drawing workshop with Colorado author Stan Yan. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 10:30-11:30am. 970-484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Light Up the Night Front lights are required for all bikes in Fort Collins. Need a light? Stop by to pick up a free one, while supplies last.

CSU Lory Student Center, FC. 6-8:30pm. www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

OCTOBER 14 Pokemon Go Safari Celebrate a day off school with a Pokémon Safari through Greeley’s downtown walking district. All ages; children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Lincoln Park Library, 1012 11th St., GR. 3pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Halloween Party Party games and creepy crafts…what could be better?! Wear your costume and get a prize! Ages 5+. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd Street, WS. Drop in 2-4pm. 970686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Precious Loss A new Rocky Mountain PBS News documentary that examines the racial and ethnic disparities in the state’s infant mortality rate. Kress Theater, 817 8th Ave., GR. 6:30-8pm. www.rmpbs.org.

Campfire at the Cabin—Things that Go Bump in the Night Spend a cozy evening by a campfire learning why nighttime noises aren’t really scary. All ages. Coyote Ridge Natural Area, Spring Mesa Rd., FC. 7-8:30pm.

970-416-2815, www.naturetracker.fcgov.com.

OCTOBER 19 Urban Legends Think you know your urban legends? Put your knowledge to the test to see who can tell fact from fiction and win prizes. Ages 9-12. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Freaky Friday!

Take a trip back in time by playing old video games with your friends and enjoy some snacks. Grades 6-12. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 3:30-5:30pm. 970-221-6740, www.read.poudrelibraries.org/events.

Nocturnal Creatures Ever wonder what goes bump in the night?

Find out at this free event, filled with games, activities, more! Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6-7:30pm. 970-484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

OCTOBER 15 Balance Schmalance Celebrate and explore balance by reading the book “Equal Shmequal” by Virginia Kroll and experiment balancing everyday things from home and school. Grades K-2.

Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 10:30am.

888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Bodies and Bones Bring dem bones to the library to learn about bodies and the skeletal structure inside them! Make a skeleton, inflate paper bag lungs and learn about the 5 senses.

Ages 2-5. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 10:30-11am. 970-686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Family Nature Club Meet other families with similar interests and challenges. Monthly commitment encouraged but not required. Families with children 12 and under. Free with registration. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Ct., FC. 10am-12noon. 970-416-2815 www.naturetracker.fcgov.com.

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OCTOBER 16 Game Day @ Your Library Play board games with others. Games provided. All ages. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6740, www.read.poudrelibraries.org/events.

Howl at the Moon! Adult Night Walk Take a moonlit a ½- to 2-mile walk with a master naturalist. Dress warmly, wear closed-toe walking shoes, bring water to drink. Adults; teens 16+ with adult. ½-2 miles, easy. Free with required registration.

Location TBA. 6-8pm. www.naturetracker. fcgov.com.

OCTOBER 17 Break a World Record Set a world record by building the longest Oreo bridge between two foreheads or constructing the highest golf pencil tower.

Kersey Library, 413 1st St., Kersey. 2pm.

888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Handmade Evening: Christmas Tree Skirt Learn how to sew a beautiful, heirloomquality Christmas tree skirt. For a list of required materials, email lhillman@ highplains.us. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

OCTOBER 18 On the Road to Reading with Eric Carle: Early Literacy Fair Fun, interactive learning activities based on the five practices of Every Child Ready to Read. You and your child will enjoy Eric Carle themed activities, fun crafts, more.

Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 9am. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

OCTOBER 20 Meet Mystery Author William Kirby Enjoy a talk and book signing by Colorado’s William Kirby, author of a scintillating new mystery, Vienna. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm. 970-484-7898 www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Special Edition of History Comes Alive: O. Henry Kick off the 2016 Brewing Up Books Festival with O. Henry (pen name for William Sydney Porter) who is as wellknown for his drinking as his short stories.

Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740, www.read.poudrelibraries.org/events.

OCTOBER 21 Pokemon Go Tailgate Enjoy Friday night tailgating and Pokémon Go. An alcohol-free, family program for all ages. Snacks provided.

Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

OCTOBER 22 Fort Collins Book Festival: Brewin’ Up Books A free, all-day festival that will include readings and signings from poets and authors, as well as a book talk with Colorado Governor and author of The Opposite of Woe: My Life in Beer and Politics, John Hickenlooper. Various Old Town locations.

970-484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks. com, www.focobookfest.org.

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ZOMBIE Smart Cycling Gain confidence to navigate “the zombie apocalypse” or urban environments more safely by bike. 14+. Westbridge Medical Suites, 1107 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 8:15am4:30pm. www.fcgov.com/recreator.

Holidays on the Cheap A look at how to survive and thrive during the holiday season without burning a hole in your wallet. Registration required.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 10-noon. 970-962-2401, laura@milehighonthecheap.com.

Geology Hike Learn the stories behind the amazing geology of Red Mountain Open Space.

Adults. Free with required registration.

Red Mountain Open Space, 799 Red Canyon Rd., Wellington. 10am-2pm.

970-619-4565, www.larimer.org/ NRregistration.

Do You Know Your Child’s True Nature?

Simple, effective tools that will empower both parent and child to be their true self. $20 online before the event; $25 at the door. Crunchy Grocer, 1461 E Eisenhower Blvd., LV. 1:30-3:30pm. www.

BeYouParenting/events.com.

Astronomy at Bobcat Ridge—Rings of Saturn Attend a short program about the beautiful gas giant, Saturn, and enjoy sky gazing afterwards. All ages. Free with registration. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, 10184 CR 32C, LV. 6-9pm. 970-4162815, www.naturetracker.fcgov.com.

OCTOBER 23 Spooky Stories for Kids If you’re a kid or kid at heart join the magical Spellbinders storytellers for an hour of spooky, creepy and downright haunting stories! Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-3pm. 970-221-6740, www.read.poudrelibraries.org/events.

OCTOBER 25 Y is for Yoga Let’s build literacy skills and healthy minds and bodies through books, songs, rhymes, and yoga! Ages 3-6. WindsorSeverance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. Two sessions: 10am and 10:45am. 970-6865603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

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Precious Loss A new Rocky Mountain PBS News documentary that examines the racial and ethnic disparities in the state’s infant mortality rate. St. Brigit Church, 110 Johnson St., Frederick. 6:30-8pm. www. rmpbs.org.

OCTOBER 26 Loomy Knitters Charitable Group An industrious group that donates cash and handmade items annually to local and worldwide organizations.

Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 1-3pm. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

OCTOBER 27 Board Game Night!

Play games, courtesy of Heroes & Horrors Games. Ages 8+. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 5-7:30pm. 970686-5603, www.clearviewlibrary.org.

Teen Author Panel with the authors of Illuminae Join us for this book talk panel with a variety of celebrated teen authors including Jay Kristoff, Amie Kaufman, Kiersten White, and Jessica Cluess. Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St. FC. 7pm. 970484-7898, www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Science Behind the Scenery— Bio-Engineering: Harnessing the Resiliency of Nature How can we mimic nature to create stronger, more resilient communities? CSU’s Dr. Hussam Mahmoud will share his research, including how the structure of bird nests serves as a model for better buildings. Nix Farm, 1745 Hoffman Mill Rd., FC. 7-8pm. www.naturetracker.fcgov.com.

OCTOBER 28 It’s a Girl Thing The library invites 4th-6th grade girls and their moms or women companions to read and discuss El Deafo by Cece Bell.

Registration limited and required. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. #200, FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

Campfire at the Cabin—Things that Go Bump in the Night Spend a cozy evening by a campfire learning why nighttime noises aren’t really scary. All ages. Free with registration.

Coyote Ridge Natural Area, Spring Mesa Rd., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-416-2815, www. naturetracker.fcgov.com.

OCTOBER 29 2016 Halloween Family Fun Trick-or-Treating at downtown businesses, costume contest, vendor booths, food, activities for kids, entertainment! Peters Park and 5th St. adjacent to the Loveland Museum/Gallery, LV. 10am-2pm. 970-9622410, www.lovelandmuseumgallery.org.

Escape the Library Can you escape the library? Individually or with a team, try and beat the clock by solving a series of brainteasers and puzzles. Grades 6-12. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 1pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

Stargazing Join members of the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society and their telescopes for an up-close look at the night sky. All ages. Free with required registration.

Devils Backbone Open Space, Hwy 34., LV. 7-10pm. 970-619-4565, www.larimer.org/ NRregistration.

OCTOBER 30 Halloween on the Promenade Bring your princesses, pirates and even your dogs to this annual Halloween festival. Enjoy free horse-drawn hay rides, Halloween treat bags, music, games, pumpkin patch, photo area, snacks, more.

The Promenade Shops at Centerra, in front of Rock Bottom Brewery, 5971 Sky Pond Dr., LV. 12noon-3pm; dog costume contest begins at 1pm. 970-461-1285, www.thepromenadeshopsatcenterra.com.

Cooking up Halloween Surprises Create sweet, spooky and healthy delights with local chef Sapna Von Reich. Grades 4-8. All recipes are gluten free, dairy free and vegan. Registration required. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., #200, FC. 1:30-3:30pm. 970-221-6740, www.poudrelibraries.org.

Crazy Costume Contest and Pumpkin Decorating Can’t wait for Halloween? Come show off your costume at the library in a fun costume contest and decorate a pumpkin to take home for the holiday. Grades 3-8.

Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., EV. 2pm. 888-861-7323, www.MyLibrary.us.

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time out Invest in our schools

Strong schools give back to the community M. L. JOHNSON

I

am a senior resident and have no children in Poudre District schools.

But, as with other taxpayers, I am interested in the value proposition of my investments. While the concept of “investment in public schools” may seem strange, public investment in Poudre School District has paid dividends in developing a diverse workforce, creating community leaders and in supporting the attraction of clean industry.

Another dividend of investing in good schools is their support of community property values. In this era of commuting and telecommuting many parents have residence alternatives and it is not unusual for newcomers to confide that, though their family could live anywhere in the U.S., they choose the Poudre School District because of school quality—their online search was followed by a visit and the move.

Profits are made on these house sales because citizens invested in developing and maintaining quality schools. And, houses adjacent to new school sites are quickly sold, with few people wanting to sell for only what they originally paid for the property.

Investment capital and new business start-ups seldom flow into communities where there are troubled schools. It flows to areas where schools are really good.

Several school-related factors operate in business site selection—particularly for high-tech companies. First, high-tech companies need well-trained employees— ones with understanding of advanced math, science and technology, individuals who can easily be trained and who can support more innovation. Second, hightech companies, recruiting talent, have to compete with other desirable locations around the world. If the prospective employee has a family, the quality of local schools is one of the best recruiting tools.

A major dividend of investing in Poudre

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School District is its support for desirable economic development.

Poudre School District has been a responsible fiduciary of community investment, in building attractive and functional facilities, in improving teaching processes and in producing student-achievement outcomes. District teachers regularly win state and national awards for professional excellence. Despite having the lowest per pupil State funding, Poudre School District students annually rank among the highest in State achievement test scores and our students lead both the State and Nation in ACT score averages.

District graduates continue to set high watermarks in academic, athletic, art, music, science and communications

competitions, including inclusion in National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Foreign Language Honor Society, State and National Art Awards and National Merit Scholars recognition. This list does not include the hundreds of advanced placements earned in AP and IB classes nor does it include the hundreds of college credits and advanced placements earned while these students were still in high school.

The Poudre School District is now asking its constituents if they want to fund critically needed facility and operations support. The proposed Mill Levy and Bond Issue questions basically ask whether you see the value of investing in maintaining quality schools—at a price comparable to the existing tax rate.

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