RM Parent December 2014

DECEMBER 2014 • RMPARENT.COM

The gift of VOLUNTEERING

Activities

WITH GUESTS

Eating

RESOLUTIONS

Magical

FAMILY TIME

Me

TIME

Redefining SMART

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DECEMBER 2014

Departments

Features

PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

‘Tis the season—how will you celebrate?

AS WE GROW . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Redefining smart—not all the pegs fit in the square holes

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Treat guests to some winter fun—five great northern Colorado activities for your out-of-town guests

GIVE ME A BREAK . . . . . . . . 12 Make time for me time—life is short...appreciate what you have

WHAT WE GET 18

WHEN WE GIVE...

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14 Northern Colorado ‘s commitment to health continues—learn about tobacco issues, local Ebola preparedness, biking challenges and more...

NUTRITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 6

You will overeat during the holidays—but you can start 2015 with the right eating attitude

A great way to counter the inevitable “I want” frenzy is to get your kids out there volunteering. Doing something for others often changes their focus to feeling grateful for what they have rather than pining for what they don’t. Plus, volunteering has other benefits for kids and teens.

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 8 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 8

Giving up quarters—the real gifts of the holidays

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Lt. Governor visits Van Buren elementary, Garfield elementary hosts Jog-a-thon, Cottonwood Plains elementary receives walking classrooms grant, literacy through music, Mary Blair elementary raises $15,000, Volunteers transform Garfield elementary school blacktop.

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

PSD calendar of events, Werner Wildcats enjoy “Reading with the Rams,” Olander counselor selected as Counselor of the Year, Bacon students connect to people with memory loss.

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

22

MAGICAL FAMILY TIME

The holidays can be even more magical when out-of-town family visits. It can be a great opportunity to spend time together and for your children to bond with extended family. So make this year’s visit enjoyable for all. Plan but don’t overplan, put visitors to work, choose activities wisely, find fun events, and stay in touch after the holidays.

Open enrollment begins, District 6 reduces assessments, Greeley West graduate named to national office.

Lunchbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

ABOUT THE COVER: Taundra, 9, likes to dance, rollerskate, sing and play board games. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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perspective ‘Tis the season...

How will you celebrate?

A

sk my friends and family, and I think most would agree that I’m not a bah-humbug guy. But I’m not a shopper. It’s not unusual for me to find myself sitting next to some other husband on a bench outside a store hanging out, waiting for whatever is going to happen in there to happen. I’m not even against it happening. In fact I’m grateful that Kristin is in there procuring.

I think she even likes it.

I have no intention of writing some trite worn-out thing about how the holidays are for so much more than getting and giving and the consumer orgy that occurs. I intend to write about some other trite, worn-out thing. I’m just having trouble figuring out how to say it, which might mean that I don’t quite have it figured out.

I think the basic idea is that it’s not what we do; it’s the way in which we do it. Let’s take a look at something that comes up about now (in fact, we have a story about it): volunteering. So we go down and help fix up some bikes for kids. If we approach it as a chore, like I’m just putting in my time because I think I should or because someone else dragged me down to it, then we might as well stay home.

We’re just going to pull down the spirits of the other volunteers who are there, probably for a variety of reasons, but in any case they’re there with a giving spirit and that makes all the difference.

I think of preparing a holiday meal as another example. If we’re grudgingly “slaving” away in the kitchen to feed all those people, the food just isn’t going to taste as good (even if it tastes exactly the same, if that makes sense), as it does when we’re happily chopping away with good music, a mimosa and our family and friends hanging around. The whole rush-around, martyr thing just puts a bad feel on the day. Better to eat late...

Your in-laws are going to visit. It will happen. It’s beyond your control. But what is in your control is how you react to that situation.

Can you get your head in the right place so that you know that they’re probably feeling a little uncomfortable too coming into your space and the way they might express it rubs you the wrong way?

And on and on...stuck in traffic? So is everyone else! Stuck in line at the gift shop? So is everyone else! Like most of life. We can’t really control the circumstances we find ourselves in, but we can control our reaction to them.

So I guess my worn-out, cliché holiday message is to truly find your holiday spirit, which likely means slowing down and finding room for some level of appreciation, acceptance, and kindness...with some celebration thrown in for good measure.

Enjoy the season, Scott

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DECEMBER 2014 • Volume 19, Issue 7 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CALENDAR EDITOR Kim Sharpe calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt Sharon Klahn, Kyle Moyer COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Maia Baccari, Katie Harris, Richard Keller, Lynn Nichols, Kim Sharpe

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

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

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as we grow

Redefining smart

Not all the pegs fit in the square holes LY NN U. NICHOLS

I

was blown away when the kindergarten teacher recommended my son attend Title I classes.

How dare she? This was a kid who spoke sentences at age 1 and followed four-step instructions very shortly after. How could they not see how smart he was? Through the years it has been a struggle to fit my smart boy’s way of learning and approaching life into the square hole of traditional education. Thankfully, good teachers and open-minded administrators along the way have helped him succeed.

I remember reading Dr. Mel Levine’s book, A Mind at a Time and feeling relieved to have him define intelligence in a different way. He believes brains are wired differently, and hence, there are different learning styles—and only some kids fit the traditional lecture-then-quiz style. When we ask a child who doesn’t fit to conform to that set style they often start struggling, or even failing, as they enter middle and high school years.

It’s well accepted that there are three basic learning styles: auditory, visual and kinesthetic. Some kids learn better by hearing and are auditory learners. Others learn by seeing. Still others learn best when their muscles are involved to help strengthen memory, as with doing. Most kids use all three to learn, but some rely more on just one or two. According to Levine, the way each of us stores and retrieves memory, pays attention, spatially orders what we learn and how we process language all help define how we best learn.

Maybe you’ve heard of emotional intelligence. EQ, like IQ, measures intelligence but a different kind than the one that’s on standardized tests. Ever notice how some people don’t pick up on the cues you give, or insist on enter8

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ing your personal space? Chalk it up to emotional intelligence. Some people are more tuned in to emotions and read social situations better than others. While not so valued in school, it’s a great ability to have out in the world—and if you ask me, an equal sign of intelligence as acing the ACT. The solution to changing how we teach children in society is not simple.

It’s easy to see why schools must unify their teaching methods and assume that everyone can learn the same materials in the same way. Resources are limited and if there are truly multiple ways of learning, teaching to all types is impractical.

Yet some programs stretch the idea of traditional and become a haven for kids who do learn differently—like Polaris High School where my son now attends.

Polaris focuses on hands-on, expeditionary learning where kids not only read information or listen to lectures but also go out into the world and experience what they are learning first hand.

If you’ve got an out-of-the-box learner, I encourage you to research ways to support him or her. In elementary school, teachers are often willing to do a little extra to keep your child on track, such as putting a hand on her shoulder

to pull her back to what’s happening in class, or allowing her to tell what she learned rather than write it out. To best succeed in the school system, getting a special plan in place such as a 504 or IEP, which asks educators to create an individual plan for success for your child, can be a lifesaver.

Giving students multiple ways to learn content improves student performance. Teachers often find that when they approach teaching in a different way with a hard-to-reach student, they find success. Maybe it’s a student who struggles with writing but can tell a great graphic story, or a child who doesn’t understand fractions until he separates orange slices. Having to get the information in a different way does not—ever—mean a child is less intelligent than his or her peers.

As best you can, don’t get discouraged. Where the schools can’t accommodate—you accommodate. Find the areas where your child succeeds and feed those—whether it’s music, sports, art or extra experiences in hands-on learning.

Being good at something outside of school will boost his confidence. Trust that your child is smart—and help her shine in every way she can.

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family activities

Treat guests to some winter fun

Five great northern Colorado activities for your out-of-town guests KATIE HARRIS

L

ooking for something to do when out of town guests arrive this month? Take advantage of the winter weather and seasonal activities taking place in northern Colorado, and you’ll find plenty to get you and your company out of the house and in the spirit of the season!

GO ICE-SKATING

Edora Pool Ice Center 1801 Riverside, Fort Collins Cost is $3.50/youth and $4.50/adult. www.fcgov.com/recreation/epic.php or 970-221-6683.

Fort Fun 1513 E Mulberry St, Fort Collins Cost is $4/person with discount packages available. www.fortfun.biz/index.html or 970-472-8000.

Greeley Ice Haus 900 8th Ave, Greeley Cost is $4/person on weekdays and $5/person on weekends. Ages 4 and under are $1. www.greeleygov.com/Recreation/IceHaus/ default.aspx or 970-350-9402.

Ice Rink at the Promenade Shops, Centerra, Loveland Cost is $8.50/adult and $7/child 12 and under. www.theicerinkattheshops.com or 970-667-5283.

Northern Colorado Ice Center 7900 Fairgrounds Ave, Fort Collins Open skate hours vary by week. Cost is $5/ person. www.ncyh.org/page/show/1127474noco-ice-center or 970-206-4423.

RENT SKIS OR SNOWSHOES FOR A DAY IN THE MOUNTAINS

Estes Park Mountain Shop 2050 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park Snowshoe rentals are $5/day. Sleds are also available to rent for $5/day. Cross-country ski

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package including skis, boots and poles is $15/day. www.estesparkmountainshop.com/ or 970-586-6548.

Jax Mercantile Loveland and Fort Collins Adult snowshoes are $12, kids are $5. Adult skis are $10 and kids are $5. Other gear is also available for rental. Reservations are recommended. www.jaxmercantile.com/rentals.

CUT DOWN THE FAMILY TREE

Beaver Meadows 100 Marmont Dr., Red Feather Lakes Snowtubing with lifts, ice skating, sleigh rides, hot chocolate and more when you come cut your tree. www.beavermeadows.com or 970881-2450.

Fern Hill Farm 2001 Fern Ave, Greeley Trees are 6- 10-feet tall and cost $25-75.

Delivery available upon choosing your tree. www.fernhillfarm-christmastrees.com/trees. htm or 970-352-4478.

Windsors’ Christmas Trees 33741 Hwy 257, Windsor Tree prices range from $10-90. Spruces, firs and pines available. www.windsorstrees.com or 970-686-5253.

CATCH A HOLIDAY SHOW OR CONCERT

Rialto Theater 228 E 4th St, Loveland Seasonal shows include Christmas Magic! A Celtic Holiday Concert, ‘Tis the Season Community Sing-a-long, Loveland Choral Society: Hallelujah! A Gospel Christmas, The Hazel Miller Band: A Christmas from the Heart, Bells of the Rockies, Ringing in Christmas and more. www.cityofloveland.org/ index. aspx?page=118 or 970-962-2120.

Union Colony Civic Center 1000 10th St, Greeley Productions include A Rockapella Christmas, Poinsettia Pops, UNC Choirs Holiday Concert, The Nutcracker, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown and more. ucstars.com/index.php or 970-356-5000.

Windsor Playhouse 561 E Garden Drive, Unit A, Windsor Don’t miss Miracle on 34th Street through Dec. 14th. www.windsorplayhouse.org/ or 970-674-1790.

SHOP LOCAL, HANDMADE GIFTS

Christmas in Berthoud Grace Place, 250 Mountain St, Berthoud Dec. 5, 4-9pm and Dec. 6, 9am-4pm. This annual Christmas event helps provide food and gifts to Berthoud families in need. christmasinberthoud.org/activities-andevents/.

Lincoln Center 417 W. Magnolia, Fort Collins This month’s holiday shows include The Christmas Rose, Nutcracker with a Twist, An Irish Christmas, A Musical Christmas Carol, and more. www.fcgov.com/lctix/ or 970-221-6735.

Gulley Greenhouse 3rd Annual Winter Festival 6029 S Shields, Fort Collins Dec. 13, 14, 20 and 21, 9am-3pm. Browse over 40 vendor booths, plus enjoy kids’ crafts, contests and free activities. www.gulleygreen house.com/2014-winter-festival.html.

Midtown Arts Center 3750 S Mason St, Fort Collins This month catch Midtown’s production of White Christmas through Dec. 27th. www.midtownartscenter.com/ or 970-225-2555.

Winter Farmer’s Market Opera Galleria, 123 N College, Fort Collins Dec. 14 and 21, 10am-2pm. Find fresh produce, meats, baked goods, wine, homemade gifts and live music. downtownfortcollins.com/events winter-farmers-market.

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give me a break

Make time for me time Life is short—appreciate what you have

KIM SHARPE

I

t began when I removed some essential clothing items and succumbed to a gentle back rub. I was on my way to having a relaxing, exotic get-away.

Okay. So I was complying with Federal aviation security check-in rules by taking off my boots and jacket before entering the scanning device followed by a pat down by an attendant on the other side. But I can imagine it was a relaxing way to begin a long, girl-time weekend with my sister, can’t I? I haven’t taken a vacation without my husband or sons since, well…, maybe never. So during this past deer and elk hunting season when half my motley crew went away for a week, I decided to break out of my regular hunting season, deep-house-cleaning routine and head north to Minnesota to hang out with my sis for a few days.

And what a weekend we had! Our first day together, my sister and I went to a spa and enjoyed facials, massages and then had our hair washed to get rid of all the layers of glorious, beautifying stuff that was smeared all over our faces and bodies. I thought that was a little funny since the stylist placed a large amount of goo back in my hair before

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drying it, but I didn’t mention that interesting observation.

Participating in a marathonpampering event works up quite an appetite, so lunch—complete with adult beverages, of course—was next.

After two hours of laughing, talking and solving all of the world’s and the rest of the family’s problems, we shopped till we dropped…more dough.

There were moments when I caught myself feeling guilty for spending time and money on myself in such a luxurious way, but then I rationalized my uncharacteristic behavior by remembering: 1) I hardly ever get to see my sister; 2) I work really hard and will continue to do so to pay for my fun; and 3) life’s short; we should enjoy the ones we love

when we get the chance.

Here’s an excerpt from a plaque that hung in the room where I slept during my weekend away. It sums up why it’s important and okay to take time for yourself.

“Life is not a race, but indeed a journey. Be honest. Work hard. Say ‘thank you,’ and ‘great job’ to someone each day. Take time for prayer. Let your handshake mean more than pen and paper. Love your life and what you’ve been given; it is not accidental. Search for your purpose and do it as best you can. Dreaming matters. Laugh often.

Appreciate the little things in life.

Some of the best things really are free.

Take time for yourself. Recognize the special people you’ve been blessed to know. Live for today and enjoy the moment. Tomorrow may never come.”

I hope you give yourself the gift of some “me” time this holiday season, whatever that means to you.

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community news

Commitment to health continues

Tobacco issues, local Ebola preparedness, biking challenges and more…

KIM SHARPE

P

revention, preparedness and bikes top local news this month. Officials constantly are busy behind the scenes putting initiatives and procedures in place to make and keep northern Colorado a healthy, vibrant place to live, work and play.

TOBACNO YOUTH COALITION SEEKS NEW MEMBERS All teens 12-18 years in Estes Park, Fort Collins, Loveland and Wellington are welcome to join TobacNO to learn about tobacco issues, develop leadership skills, meet new teens, and work together on projects that can reduce tobacco use and illness. Youth provide valuable insight into what is effective among their peers and can contribute creativity, energy and ideas to make positive community change.

A meeting for interested Loveland teens will be held Wednesday, December 3, 6:30-7:30pm, at the Loveland Public Library, Erion Room. For questions or to RSVP, contact Christa Timmerman at 970-498-6718 or timmerca@larimer.org.

MAKE SMART HEALTH INSURANCE CHOICES Tis’ the season for health insurance plan enrollment. You might be like most people—confused and uncomfortable when it comes to making decisions about health insurance coverage. That’s why a team of experts from the CSU Extension is conducting Smart Choice Health Insurance© Decisions workshops.

These workshops and materials are research-based to give people tools to make smart health insurance decisions for themselves and their families. Participants learn key health insurance terms; how to estimate costs for health care and what questions to ask; and how to find information to choose a health plan.

“Smart Choice is not about pushing 14

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you to select any one specific plan,” says Laurel Kubin, Larimer County extension director. “It will help you gain a set of skills so you can choose a plan that best fits your family’s needs. Keeping your head above water can be extremely difficult when navigating the waters of health insurance—whether you’ve been insured throughout your life or are faced with selecting coverage for the very first

time. Smart Choice helps eliminate the intimidation factor of health insurance decision making.”

Smart Choice Health Insurance© Decisions workshops are scheduled for the following dates and locations.

Pre-register at least two days before your workshop date of choice by calling the Larimer County Extension Office at 970-498-6000.

• Tuesday, December 2, 5:30-7:30pm, Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St., Fort Collins • Thursday, December 2-4pm, Larimer County Extension Office, 1525 Blue Spruce Drive, Fort Collins • Monday, December 8, 5:30-7:30pm.,

Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams, Loveland

Health insurance questions also can be answered by professionals at Larimer Health Connect locations in Fort Collins and Loveland (970-4720444 or www.larimerhealthconnect. org), and by Weld Health Connect staff (970-350-4673 or www.connect forhealthco.com/event/weldproject-connect).

LARIMER COUNTY HEALTH OFFICIALS PREPARE FOR EBOLA Health care and public health organizations in Larimer County have been working closely together to be prepared in the event that Ebola infection is diagnosed locally.

The organizations are coordinating their activities and sharing preparedness plans through the Larimer County Emergency Health Care Coalition, a broad-based coalition that includes representatives from local hospitals, clinics, public health, emergency medical services and other health care-related agencies.

The risk of an ongoing outbreak

in the United States remains very low as Ebola has not been found to spread through casual contact. The key to controlling Ebola’s spread lies in identifying and isolating all cases quickly, and then tracking all close contacts and monitoring them for 21 days to see if they develop symptoms.

“We are fortunate, in this country and in our county, to have the public health and health care infrastructure to respond effectively to an Ebola infection,” says Dr. Adrienne LeBailly, Larimer County Health Department director. “However, it is critical for the U.S. to join with other nations to help control the Ebola outbreak in affected countries in West Africa, as that is the only longterm protection for the U.S and the rest of the world.”

Coordinating the local planning efforts is the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment, which serves as the coalition’s convener and helps ensure that all agencies have up-to-date information from state and federal sources. The Department also has gathered the lessons learned from the response of public health officials in Dallas, where the first cases of Ebola diagnosed and contracted in the U.S. have occurred.

Local information on the Ebola virus is available on the Health Department website: www.larimer.org/health/. More extensive information on Ebola is available from the U. S. Centers for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov/ebola and the state of Colorado at www.colorado.gov/pacific/ cdphe/ebola. The public also can get information on Ebola preparedness by calling CO-HELP (Colorado Health Education Line or the Public) at 1-877-462-2911.

For information specific to Weld County, call 970-304-6420 ext 2380.

IT’S ALL ABOUT CONNECTIONS The Larimer County Natural Resources Department is partnering with the Cities of Fort Collins and Loveland to obtain grant funding to construct connections between the two municipalities’ regional concrete trail systems. These connections, the Long View Corridor Trail and Colorado Front Range Trail, will improve the quality of life in our county and provide a much safer way for

people utilizing alternative transportation to commute and recreate between the two cities.

More information about the projects can be found at www.larimer.org/ openlands/regional-trails.htm. To support this work, sign a petition at: http:// bit.ly/suppregtrail. Petition signatures will be submitted as a part of grant funding requests.

HEALTH DISTRICT EARNS TOP HONORS FOR NATIONAL BIKE CHALLENGE Cyclists at the Health District of Northern Larimer County keep racking up miles and awards.

Last month, the Fort Collins public agency earned top honors in its category during the recent National Bike Challenge, pedaling more miles than any other participating company with 100499 employees.

Sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists, the National Bike Challenge is a nationwide event in which participants log the number of miles they ride each day between May 1 and Sept.

30. This year, the Health District had 40 participating cyclists who rode a combined total of more than 15,000 miles.

That placed it first in the country among companies with 100-499 employees.

Recognition for its strong biking culture is nothing new for the Health District. Last April, the League of American Bicyclists designated the Health District a Bicycle Friendly Business, one of only 14 in Fort Collins.

The Health District earned that designation by sponsoring worksite bike challenges, offering incentives to riders, leading lunchtime rides, hosting clinics on bike maintenance and safe riding skills, and maintaining two loaner bikes for errands and work-related trips. It also regularly participates in local and national biking events such as Bike to Work Day and City of Fort Collins worksite challenges.

GIVE KIDS IN WELD THE GIFT OF FREEDOM Nothing gives a child freedom like their own two wheels and Greeley’s Turn Around Bikes wants to give that gift to many children in Weld County this

holiday season.

Turn Around Bikes hopes to donate more than 50 bicycles to local children, but they need help. The program is hosting weekly repair sessions on Wednesday evenings at 7pm to fix child- and teen-sized bicycles that then will be donated to Weld County families so they can give their children a bicycle as a Christmas present this year.

Contact Liz at 970-716-0680 or liz@ncyfc.org if you’re interested in volunteering or if you have a very gently used kid’s bicycle to donate. You can make a financial contribution to support this effort online at www.northern coloradoyfc.cloverdonations.com/turnaround-bikes.

UNC NAMED A BRONZE BICYCLE FRIENDLY UNIVERSITY The League of American Bicyclists (LAB) recognized the University of Northern Colorado with a Bronze Bicycle Friendly University (BFUSM) award, joining 100 visionary colleges and universities from across the country.

With the announcement of 33 new and renewing BFUs in 20 states, UNC joins a cutting-edge group of colleges and universities across the U.S. which is transforming their campuses and the communities around them. There are now 100 BFUs in 37 states and Washington, D.C. “Campus leaders are recognizing the real-time and long-term impact that a culture of bicycling can create,” says Andy Clarke, LAB president. “We applaud this new round of colleges and universities for investing in a more sustainable future for the country and a healthier future for their staff, students and surrounding communities.”

Moving forward, UNC will have access to a variety of free tools and technical assistance from the League to become even more bicycle-friendly.

When colleges and universities invest in bicycling, great things happen: decreasing the carbon footprint, connecting UNC to the community and is a fun and healthy campus culture.

To apply or learn more about the free BFU program, visit the League online at www.bikeleague.org/university.

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healthy living

You will overeat during the holidays!

But you can start 2015 with the right eating attitude RICHARD KELLER

Y

ou and your family are going to overeat this holiday season. This is not a prediction; it’s a known fact. Why? Well, you overeat every year, even though you pledge to do better.

It starts off at Thanksgiving, where you say you’ll exercise the day after but end up snacking on leftovers while you and the kids veg out in front of the television. Then come the holiday cookies and candies your family and friends provide. You pledge everyone will do better, until the first snowfall. Then you sit by the fire sipping hot cocoa and snacking on sugar cookies while you watch the gentle flakes of northern Colorado fall outside your window.

Of course there are the meals out, whether at others’ homes or the fine local restaurants. The good food and cold walk back to the car make you sleepy. So you all snuggle underneath blankets to watch It’s a Wonderful Life. By the time New Year’s Day rolls around you and your family feel bloated, fatigued, and ready for a steady diet of water and leafy vegetables.

Don’t feel bad about this—you’re not the only family who gets this way over the holidays. With hectic schedules and lack of time for proper meals, eating habits you established throughout the year can be demolished with an extra piece of pumpkin pie. And you shouldn’t feel guilty about enjoying yourself. All you need to do is get ready for January 1. Go past that date to re-establish your proper eating habits and they may be gone for good.

Let’s get you through the holidays and into the next year with some advice on how to get back on track come January 1.

DON’T LOSE SIGHT Despite the dietary changes from now 16

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until the end of the year you should still sit down with the rest of the family and work out a plan to get back on track when the last spoonful of figgy pudding is devoured. Make a commitment to return to your nutritional program.

DON’T LET IT ALL GO Prepare some nutritional meals ahead of time or carve out a period of cardio exercise for you and the family. Continue to take your vitamins and other supplements whenever possible and, most important, drink water. Sustaining yourself on hot chocolate and soda will knock you and the family off your feet, no matter if you exercise

and eat somewhat healthy.

GRADUALLY RETURN TO CENTER It may be hard to get back to your normal dietary plan after being off the wagon for so long. Start by adding regular exercise and nutritional eating back gradually into daily routines. Things should get back to normal in a few weeks.

December should be a time of joy with your family and friends, not one rife with guilt about what you eat or drink. You have a finite time with your kids when they’re young. Enjoy them and put everything else on the backburner. You’ll be in a much better mindset when January 1st rolls around.

Kick-start your routine

Tools are available to help you rejuvenate your exercise and nutrition routines as soon as the ball drops in Times Square. Here are a few suggestions.

eMeals.com (http://emeals.com/) For approximately $6 a month you receive a comprehensive list of nutritional meals you can prepare for your family. eMeals provides the ingredient list as well as locations near your where the items may be on sale.

Fitness Magazine The online version of this magazine provides a number of articles on kick-starting a stalled diet plan. For instance, here is a 13-step plan to resume a routine of diet and exercise.

Fitness Apps Keep track of your resumed fitness program with an app. PC Magazine offers a list of the 25 most popular of these apps. Some of them may also offer rewards for reaching accomplishments.

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What we get when we give

Five ways volunteering benefits your kids

W

Lynn U. Nichols

ith all the holiday displays and ads bombarding our kids with the latest must-have toy or gadget, it’s hard to take the focus off of getting and put it back where it belongs this season—on giving. A great way to counter the inevitable “I want” frenzy is to get your kids out there volunteering. Doing something for others often changes their focus to feeling grateful for what they have rather than pining for what they don’t.

“During the holidays, volunteering is a great way to get kids to shift their thinking from what they want to what they can give,” says Andrea Holt, Marriage and Family Therapist with UCHealth’s Family Medicine Center in Fort Collins.

Plus, volunteering has a slew of other benefits for kids and teens. Here are five reasons you should give your child a volunteer opportunity this holiday season: 1. IT FEELS GOOD TO HELP OTHERS We could stop here and not go on. Simply helping others is enough of a reason to volunteer. It teaches the most basic of life lessons: that nurturing, sharing and caring are a big part of being human. And it feels good to feel that. Helping others is like a mirror that reflects back. It lets everyone involved experience the light of connection and grow into better, stronger people. To

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realize there is more than just us.

“Developmentally, it’s appropriate for children to be egocentric. Volunteering is a way to gently shift that and help kids gain empathy. Getting out and seeing that there are different kinds of people in the world who have different kinds of struggles helps do that,” Holt says.

Often, volunteering helps kids learn to tolerate and accept differences. The more kids are exposed to, the more they see as normal. All of this teaches perspective.

“When kids experience differences they learn to be okay with them—and they gain confidence in how to negotiate those differences,” Holt adds.

2. BETTER GRADES AND A HIGHER CHANCE AT GRADUATING Research shows that when youth volunteer they are more likely to be engaged in school and graduate. School districts have taken heed to these results and many incorporate service-learning projects into the curriculum. A recent survey of at-risk students who participated in service-learning projects at their school showed that 82 percent claimed their view of school improved because of the service-learning project, and 77 percent said the projects motivated them to work harder in school.

“When kids volunteer they often hear genuine appreciation for their efforts. If they are kids who are at-risk, they may not get a lot of positive feedback in their lives. Volunteering is a way for them to learn that positive results feel good and they’ll want to seek out more of that,” Holt says.

Service learning has become a common component in school district curriculum across the nation. At Poudre Schools, service learning “engages students in meaningful service…through careful integration with established curricula.”

3. FEEL A PART OF THE COMMUNITY Research also shows that youth who volunteer are more likely to vote as adults—and continue to stay involved in their community.

“Volunteering helps kids feel invested in their community and care about what’s going on. It makes sense they’d be more likely to vote,” Holt adds.

4. GET A BOOST ON COLLEGE AND JOB APPLICATIONS Getting into college and landing a good job can be a challenge for youth today.

Competition for college admissions is often intense. Of course grades and test scores are looked at first, but extracurricular activities and community involvement gives an application something unique to consider. Reviewers often read between the lines to discover a youth’s character—and to determine if they are balanced and equipped enough to succeed. Volunteering helps kids stand out, and just might give a reviewer a reason to connect due to similar interests.

“As a child, my family volunteered each month at a homeless shelter and it helped me land my first job out of graduate school. During the interview, they asked if I had experience working with the homeless population and when I shared about my volunteer experience growing up, it was a turning point,’ Holt states.

5. BE MORE READY TO TACKLE WHAT LIFE BRINGS Last but certainly not least,

volunteering teaches important life skills. It not only teaches kids how to get along with others and to navigate differences in beliefs, culture and appearances but it also teaches practical life skills like time management and balancing commitments.

“There’s so much learning to be had from tangible life experiences. Volunteering presents many teachable moments about the bigger world,” Holt says.

She encourages families to volunteer together—not only to strengthen family bonds but also to create those teachable moments where kids can ask meaningful questions and parents get a chance to answer them.

She sees volunteering alone as equally important for older kids: “There’s a lot of responsibility that comes with volunteering. You have to find a ride, show up, fit it in your schedule—and people are relying on you. These are all good life lessons for teens, and they become better people in the process,” she concludes.

UCHealth sponsored this article.

Want to get involved? Start here. Start now.

There are tons of volunteer opportunities for youth and families in northern Colorado all year long. Choose any topic from animals and the environment, arts and culture, health and wellness to hunger and homelessness. The holidays bring even more opportunities, like delivering turkeys for the Food Bank of Larimer County, baking cookies for guests at the Fort Collins Rescue Mission or delivering Christmas trees for Northern Colorado Shares—a few on this year’s December calendar. Pick a favorite nonprofit and likely they also have a way you can help.

A good place to start is your child’s own school. Almost every school in Poudre School district is doing something for others this holiday season. Check with the front office, PTA or student council. For example, Fort Collins High School students can adopt a family within FCHS or through Salvation Army. Odea Elementary is hosting an annual winter clothing drive and Bacon Elementary is sponsoring a mitten/hat tree and a giving tree for families that are a part of Project Self Sufficiency. Finally, Poudre High School is holding its 6th Annual Feed Our Families Food Drive, with students lobbying for donations outside local grocery stores. The school is hoping to feed 600 families this year. Kyla, a senior at PHS, calls it an “extremely humbling experience…helping out friends and neighbors.”

Another great resource is United Way (uwaylc.org), which serves as a clearinghouse for human service agencies needing volunteers. Click on volunteer and select the volunteer resources guide which breaks down opportunities under categories such as animals or the elderly. A sample of opportunities include serving as a foster parent for dogs or cats for the humane society, sorting books at the library, and helping with programs at the housing authority, homeless shelters, kids with special needs and more. You can also click on the volunteer database to see a current calendar of events. UCHealth (uchealth.org) also offers volunteer opportunities to teens 16 and older who are interested in a career in health.

Pick something or someone you care about and get involved this holiday season, then keep it going all year long.

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MAGICAL FAMILY TIME Make extended visits enjoyable for all KATIE HARRIS

T

he holiday season is a time for being together, and it can be even more magical when out-of-town family comes to visit. Not only are these visits a chance to catch up and spend time together, they also present a valuable opportunity for your children to bond with their extended family, and experience some of the family traditions you grew up with. But without the right mindset, patience, and a little planning, things can easily become stressful and chaotic when a houseful of people shows up at your door. Keep an extended holiday gathering lighthearted by following some simple guidelines: PLAN, BUT DON’T OVER PLAN When we don’t get to visit with our family as often as 22

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we’d like to, it can be tempting to cram months or years of missed time into one week-long visit. Resist the urge. Two or three organized outings per week may be all your family can handle, especially if your group includes small children or elderly family members. Remember to leave plenty of room for downtime.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE BABYSITTING The cost of cooking for a houseful, on top of buying pricey tickets for holiday shows and events can be daunting. Why not send your kids off with your extended family for a day of fun, while mom and dad get to save on tickets and cooking and enjoy a quiet date night at home.

PUT THEM TO WORK Wondering when you’ll fit in Christmas baking, card sending, and holiday decorating with a houseful of family to entertain? Enlist your guests! Ask a relative to share a favorite cookie recipe with your children and then bake it together, or, host a cookie bake-off with all your family members. All those delicious treats can be passed out to the friends and neighbors on your list and save you from a day of baking alone. Pull out your back-up of craft supplies or pick some up at the dollar store and ask your guests to work with your children to make their own Christmas cards, gift tags, and colorful wrapping paper to get you ahead of the game this year. While they’re at it, they can make paper snowflakes, glittery pinecones, or popcorn garlands to decorate the house with!

STAY IN On a cold winter day, keep it easy!

Grilled cheese, hot cocoa, and a game of charades, or a jigsaw puzzle will keep the whole family happy and entertained, and create a perfect atmosphere for catching up with one another. Try a game or two to help your kids get to know their extended family—have each family member write down a few interesting facts about themselves, then read them aloud and let your kids try to match them to family members. Or have one person start telling a story and go around the room with each person adding to it. Building a Lego masterpiece with grandpa, starting a good book with their aunt, or beginning a craft project with grandma can be great ways for your kids to connect with their relatives during downtime at home.

WHEN THE VISIT’S OVER Open up the lines of communication: Use this get together to fuel more frequent communication between your kids and their out-of-town family. Before your relatives leave town, make a date between them and your kids for their next communication, whether it be a phone call, letter, email, or Skype. Make it a regular occurrence by calling it “Friday night phone call to grandma night,” or “First of the month Skype with the cousins.”

SHARE FAVORITE MEMORIES FROM THE VISIT Ask everyone to share the photos from their visit to a group share site, or, have everyone mail a copy of their favorite picture to the rest of the group with a memory to go along with it written on the back. Share these with your kids to help them remember the fun they had with their family.

THE GIFT OF STAYING IN TOUCH In place of gifting your children more toys, consider starting a new tradition.

Ask your parents or other relatives to consider starting a book or magazine

of the month club with your child.

They choose age-appropriate reading material for your child each month, read it first then mail it to you. After your child reads it they can call each other for a meeting of their book club, and share their thoughts on what they’ve read.

Check out www.blogglebeans. com: A website for grandparents and kids to share messages and e-gifts, play games together and share a digital calendar where they can post events to look forward to. The first grandparent/ grandchild team is free, with additional memberships starting at about $10.

Choose activities wisely

With so much going on this time of year, all it takes is a little research to discover outings that are suitable for all ages. Spread Christmas cheer with a visit to an assisted-living home or an evening of door-to-door caroling. Get in the holiday spirit with a ballet or orchestral performance. If you know your toddler won’t sit through an hour-long show, choose a trip to the Festival of Trees or the farm instead. Try one of these family-friendly holiday outings: 2014 Festival of Trees Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave, Greeley, www.ucstars.com Nov. 28-Dec. 6, hours vary, $2/$1 Enjoy the beautiful display of trees, music, kids activities, and a silent auction. Teddy Bear Bash takes place Dec. 6, 9-11am.

Garden of Lights Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave, Fort Collins, www.fcgov.com/gardens/ Dec. 5-Jan. 4, 5-9pm, $2 suggested donation/person The gardens will be twinkling with thousands of LED lights, including a lit-up pond! On weekends Santa will make a guest appearance, and guests can enjoy holiday music and beverages.

Holiday Ice Show Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave, Greeley www.greeleygov.com/recreation/icehaus/ default.aspx Dec. 6, 3-4:30pm, $7.

A holiday ice show presented by the Mountain View Skating Club and skate school.

The Lincoln Center 417 W. Magnolia, Fort Collins www.fcgov.com/lctix/ Dec. 1 & 2, 1pm and 7pm: Dance Express presents The Christmas Rose. $16/$12/$8 Dec. 5-7, 2pm and 7pm*: Mountain Dance presents The Nutcracker with a Twist. $8-10.

Dec. 12-14, 2pm and 7pm*: The Nutcracker

presented by Canyon Concert Ballet. $15-$32.

Dec. 19 & 20, 2pm and 7pm*: Contemporary Dance Academy presents Clara and the Nutcracker. $15-20.

Dec. 19-21, 2pm and 7:30pm: La-De-Da presents A Musical Christmas Carol 2013. $10-$16. *Showtimes may vary The Rialto Theater Center 228 E. 4th St, Loveland, www.rialtoloveland. ticketforce.com.

Dec. 5 & 6, 7:30pm: Acoustic Eidolon’s Annual Holiday Concert. $20.

Dec. 18, 7pm: The Hazel Miller Band Holiday Concert: A Christmas from the heart. $15.

Dec. 21, 7pm: A Season of Dance with the Mackinnon Royal Dance Institute. $8.

Dec. 20, 7:30pm: Interstate Cowboy’s 6th Annual Christmas Ball. $22/$17 Union Colony Civic Center 701 10th Ave, Greeley, www.ucstars.com Dec. 5, 7:30pm: A Rockapella Christmas concert. $27-$53.

Dec. 6, 7:30pm: Poinsettia Pops.$10-$30.

Dec. 7, 7:30pm: UNC Choirs Holiday Concert. $12/$8 Dec. 12-14, 3pm and 7:30pm: Colorado Dance Theater’s 20th Annual The Nutcracker. $13-$23.

Dec. 16-18, 5pm & 6:15pm: Dance Factory Winter Recital. Free Dec. 19, 7:30pm: Wes Hell & Happy Holidays with The Greeley Chorale. $22

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thompson school district news

Garfield hosts 2nd annual Jog-A-Thon

Garfield Elementary School students, staff, and parents participated in their second annual Jog-a-Thon on October 3. Proceeds from the Jog-a-Thon will be utilized in the continued improvement of the Garfield playground and other PTA projects. The students ran for a combined total of 873 miles, which is equivalent to a trip from Loveland to Minnesota! The students raised approximately $6,000 for the PTA. The school would like to thank their families and friends who supported the fundraising efforts.

A SPECIAL VISIT Lt. Governor Joe Garcia visited Van Buren Elementary School on October 8 to observe the local implementation of the Colorado Reading Corps program, a TSD partnership with United Way of Larimer County.

The Colorado Reading Corps is a research-based, data-driven program that utilizes AmeriCorps members trained in literacy interventions to provide tutoring to students who are at risk of falling behind in reading proficiency. The program has been rolled out at 14 elementary schools in Thompson School District, where approximately 400 students in kindergarten through third grade will receive one-on-one tutoring during the 20142015 school year. A special “thank you” 24

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goes out to Lt. Governor Garcia’s office and the United Way of Larimer County for making this visit possible.

COTTONWOOD PLAINS ELEMENTARY RECEIVES WALKING CLASSROOMS GRANT Students in Classroom 4C at Cottonwood Plains Elementary will be tying up their tennis shoes and taking part of their learning outdoors.

Jeanna Dolezal’s 4th-grade class received a grant to purchase The Walking Classroom, a set of 31 audio Walk Kits that allows students to listen to 4th-grade standards-based audio lessons while they exercise. The Walking Classroom was funded by Kaiser Permanente and also included the purchase of two mobile audio Listening Libraries for 4th-grade

families to check out and use at home.

Each Walking Classroom lesson is an audio podcast loaded onto a sort of MP3 player called a Walk Kit. There are 89 lessons covering a range of specific 4th-grade topics including earth science, grammar, reading strategies, poetry, biographies, and much more.

Frequent movement “brain breaks” give students a chance to reinvigorate their bodies and minds. Additionally, students now live in an age when quite a bit of learning is available as audio podcasts from many educational sources. Learning to listen completely from an audio source is an important lifelong skill for students.

Look for 20 students with earbuds in, walking briskly in a line either outside around the playground perimeter or inside Cottonwood Elementary during inclement weather as 4C students implement The Walking Classroom!

LITERACY THROUGH MUSIC Van Buren Elementary School was honored to host the woodwind quintet from Loveland Friends of Chamber Music as they presented “Peter and the Wolf ” with Mark Kubichek (current TSD elementary music teacher) as the narrator. The program was free of charge and was funded by a grant from the Hach Family Foundation.

The performance even offered a tie-in to literacy; each instrument had specific “jobs” to tell a story and represent the characters.

Following the performance, a

Lt. Governor Joe Garcia visits with faculty and students at Van Buren Elementary School.

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question-and-answer session was also held.

MBES BOBCAT DASH RAISES $15,000 Mary Blair Elementary School recently sponsored its annual fundraiser, the Bobcat Dash Jog and Walk-a-Thon.

The goal was to raise $10,000. This year, the school raised over $15,000! It took an amazing coordination effort by the school’s PTO Bobcat Dash committee, multiple parent volunteers, students, staff and families to make it happen.

MBES is so grateful to all who support the school each and every day, especially in meeting this year’s pledge goal.

VOLUNTEERS TRANSFORM GES BLACKTOP Garfield Elementary School’s PTA group would like to thank everyone who came together to turn their blacktop into an artful playground. More than 20 volunteers from Foundations Church, several Loveland artists, as well as parent and student volunteers worked together to revive the blacktop. Garfield PTA member and Garfield Volunteer Coordinator Tracie Jenkins created the blacktop design. Also lending

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their creative skills to the project were artists Olivia Lowe, Becky Hawley, Dustin Brunson, Kerri Ertman and Robin Dodge.

Diamond Vogel donated paint.

In addition to the blacktop games and art, Foundations volunteers painted the basketball poles and backboards, tetherball poles and playground equipment, weeded around the school and installed a drip system for the front flowerbeds.

PTA members also installed a Bud-

dy Bench. This bench was purchased and painted by the PTA with help from the 2013-14 5th-grade classes. The idea is simple: If a student needs a buddy, they have a seat. If a student sees someone sitting there, they know that person needs a buddy or someone to play with.

The PTA also recently planted six trees on the playground. This works into the group’s efforts to incorporate shade into the play space.

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poudre school district news Werner Wildcats enjoy “Reading with the Rams”

Werner Elementary students saw some of their favorite star athletes in action off the field during a special morning of “Reading with the Rams.”

Athletes from Colorado State University football, basketball and volleyball teams visited the Werner Wildcats recently, reading and talking with them about their sports and the importance of teamwork. The CSU athletes also talked with the kids about their own activities and favorite subjects in school. Even Cam the Ram was on hand to rally enthusiasm about reading and cheer on the Wildcats.

The “Reading with the Rams” program gives elementary students a chance to connect with their CSU role models.

OLANDER COUNSELOR SELECTED AS COUNSELOR OF THE YEAR IN COLORADO Congratulations to Heidi Jensen for being named Elementary School Counselor of the Year by the Colorado School Counselor Association!

The Colorado School Counselor Association recognizes counselors who implement the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) model of comprehensive services. Jensen has shown she does that by effectively providing counseling services to more than 400 students at Olander, a school for project-based learning.

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“Heidi is an excellent student advocate, works tirelessly to engage parents and connect families to various resources, provides school-wide classroom guidance, facilitates 4-6 small groups a week, individual counseling, and coordinates school-wide initiatives,” says Jill Alexander, a mental health specialist who works with Jensen. “Heidi is so dedicated, knows the needs of her school community thoroughly, and finds creative solutions to meet the many social and emotional needs of students, staff and parents.”

As a winner of the state award, Jensen will automatically be entered to compete for the national counselor of the year award.

BACON FIFTH-GRADERS CONNECT TO PEOPLE WITH MEMORY LOSS “What do you think is happening here?” asked Marilyn Thelen, while showing fifth-graders a photograph of a man and young girl, both dressed in pink tights and tutus. The man is reading “Ballet for Dummies” and holding his leg up while sipping from a coffee mug.

The fifth-graders at Bacon Elementary called out their ideas: “The father is stressed out and doesn’t know what to do.”

“He’s reading a book to teach his daughter ballet.”

“Well, he likes Starbucks.”

While it may be a silly photograph, it’s inspiring these fifth-graders to write a creative story together, which will later be shared with people living with memory loss. This writing project is part of a program called TimeSlips that uses the creative arts to help people with dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases.

For the past few weeks, Bacon students have been collaboratively writing stories together based on photographs to share with people living with memory illnesses at a local facility. Those residents then create their own stories, based on the same photographs, which in turn are shared with students at Bacon.

Thelen, a TimeSlips facilitator, says the program gives the students creative

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PSD Calendar of Events Dec. 9..... 6 :30pm, Board of Education meeting, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Avenue.

Dec. 22... J an. 2, Winter Break, No School!

Jan. 5..... Teacher Work Day, No School for K-12 students. Teachers on duty.

Jan. 6..... F irst day back at school after Winter Break

writing opportunities and helps them understand more about people living with memory loss.

“The residents come up with their own stories and that shows the kids that they are still contributing members of their own community,” says Thelen, noting that since creative

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writing doesn’t depend on memories, it’s a positive way to engage people with dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases. “There’s no right or wrong answer. They have fun working on their stories together.”

Bacon students and residents recently met during a celebration at

the residential facility. Students read stories and presented their new friends with special artwork. Fifth-graders Monica Jarosz and Ethan Lin said they learned a lot about people living with memory loss.

“I learned that people with dementia forget things really easily and I learned that volunteering can make you feel really good,” said Monica.

“I learned that it is hard for people to live once they have dementia,” Ethan said. “It affects their brain which makes them forget stuff. But on the field trip, they were just normal people, they just have a brain disease.”

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greeley-evans district 6 news Open enrollment applications now being accepted Greeley-Evans School District 6 offers students the opportunity to open enroll into schools outside of their neighborhood or home boundaries, and the district also welcomes out-of-district students into its schools. In both cases, families simply need to complete an Open Enrollment Application to begin the process. Applications must be received by December 18 The window for open enrollment requests for the 2015-16 school year will be from now through December 18.

Open Enrollment Applications will be available in English and Spanish at every District 6 school office, at the district’s main office at 1025 9th Avenue, and at www.greeleyschools.org/open enrollment. Completed applications must be submitted by 4:30pm on Dec. 18, 2014, at the district’s main office, at your child’s current school, or at the school you are requesting your child to attend.

While the district is able to accommodate a majority of open enrollment requests, a student who requests enrollment in schools (or specific grade-levels in a school) that are at or above capacity may be put on a waiting list.

Students who are currently attending a school under open enrollment or transfer will automatically be re-enrolled into the school for the 2015-16 school year, and those parents do not have to complete a new open enrollment application. If, however, a parent wishes to enroll a child back in their home school for the 2015-16 school year, parents should complete a Discontinuation of Open Enrollment / Transfer Application and return it to their current school

by Dec. 18. 2014. These forms are also available in the locations listed above.

Open enrollment applicants will be notified in February of their application status. Parents of open enrollment students must provide transportation to and from their approved school.

For more information about open enrollment, please consult the District 32

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DISTRICT 6 REDUCES ASSESSMENTS AT ALL LEVELS Interim Superintendent Wayne Eads announced recently that GreeleyEvans School District 6 has reduced the number of assessments given to students throughout the year in an effort to free up more instructional time for teachers.

District 6 has reduced the number of assessments expected across all grade levels by 72, including 56 assessments at

Not only did District 6 remove some assessments from its roster, it reduced the frequency of others. In all, more than 80 hours that were spent on giving assessments will be available for instructional time across grade levels.

“We know our teachers and principals work very hard. We are looking at ways we can help give them the time they need to improve student learning, while still providing the data they need to help their students succeed,” Eads says. “It’s a balance we are striving to strike throughout the district.”

the elementary level, 14 at the middle school level and 2 at the high school level.

The total number of assessments reduced at high schools is lower due to increases in required state testing at that level this year.

Some assessments are mandated by the state of Colorado and the Colorado Department of Education. Schools also administer assessments to gauge student learning, and the results are useful tools for teachers as they move forward to ensure their students master subjects and content.

“The purpose of assessments is to provide teachers with good information so they can adapt instruction to fit the needs of their students,” Eads says. “With new state assessments this year, we felt it was a good time to take another look at what we are doing and reevaluate which of our assessments are actually helping improve instruction.”

GREELEY WEST GRADUATE NAMED TO NATIONAL OFFICE Kristen Schmidt, an animal science and agricultural business major at Colorado State University, was recently named central region vice president of the National Future Farmers of America organization. Kristen is a 2012 Greeley West High School graduate.

Other officers came from Georgia, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky and New Mexico.

National officers commit to a year of service, which includes about 100,000 miles in travel to meet with business and industry leaders, FFA members and teachers, corporate sponsors, government and education officials and state FFA leaders, according to the release.

6 website, www.greeleyschools.org/ openenrollment, or call 348-6265.

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

Expires: 12/31/14 RMP 1214

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lunchbox POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT— Elementary student lunches are $2.35, secondary student lunches are $2.60 and reduced lunches are $0.40.

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

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2 Lasagna; chicken bites & biscuit 3 Sweet & sour meatballs over fried rice; hamburger/cheeseburger 4 Beef tacos; pig in a blanket 5 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza 8 Toasted cheese sandwich w/tomato soup; chicken nuggets 9 Chicken Alfredo; ham & cheese sub 10 Asian Teriyaki bowl w/chicken; chicken drumstick w/biscuit

11 Chicken enchilada bake; chili & cinnamon roll 12 Pepperoni or cheese pizza 15 Sloppy Joe; mac n’cheese 16 Baked Ziti pasta; turkey gravy & roll 17 Asian noodles w/chicken & veggies; trout treasures 18 Pork green chile bowl; chicken patty sandwich 19 Cheese or meat lovers pizza; chicken Caesar wrap HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

MIDDLE SCHOOLS 2 Cheese raviolis; spaghetti & meatballs 3 Asian Teriyaki bowl w/chicken; chicken nuggets 4 Green chile bowl w/chicken or pork 5 Trout melt sandwich; mac n’cheese 8 Sloppy Joe sandwich; Southwest chicken sandwich 9 Lasagna; chicken nuggets 10 Orange chicken; beef w/rice

11 Burrito bar—beef or bean 12 Turkey pot pie; chicken w/biscuit 15 Pancake & sausage wrap; chicken bites w/biscuit 16 Baked Ziti pasta; meatball sub 17 Asian noodles w/chicken or beef & veggies 18 Taco bar w/chicken or beef 19 Pigs in a blanket; chili & cinnamon roll HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT — Elementary lunches are $2.75. Secondary school lunches are $3. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1 Chicken nuggets; Caesar salad 2 French bread boat; chicken tender salad 3 Stuffed baked potato; chef salad 4 Burrito grande; taco salad 5 Stuffed shells; garden entrée salad 8 Chicken breast strips; Caesar salad 9 Personal pizza/calzone; chicken tender salad 10 Grilled cheese sandwich w/tomato soup; garden salad

11 Nachos w/cheese; taco salad 12 Fish nuggets; garden entrée salad 15 Mac n’cheese; Caesar salad 16 Chicken parmesan w/pasta; chicken tender salad 17 Chili w/cinnamon tasterie; chef salad 18 BBQ sliders; taco salad 19 Turkey w/gravy; garden entrée salad HAPPY HOLIDAYS! SECONDARY SCHOOL

1 Chicken breast strips; sloppy Joe 2 French bread boat; hot ham & cheese sandwich 3 Potato bar; baked beans 4 Burrito grande; meatball sandwich 5 Stuffed shells; chicken breast strips 8 Chicken breast strips; BBQ sandwich 9 Personal pizza/calzone; spicy chicken patty sandwich 10 Soup & sandwich; garden side salad

11 Nachos w/cheese; lasagna w/meat 12 Fish sandwich; chicken breast nuggets 15 Mac n’cheese; chicken fajita wrap 16 Chicken parmesan w/pasta; spicy chicken patty sandwich 17 Chili 18 BBQ sliders; French bread boat 19 Turkey w/gravy; meatball sandwich HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

GREELEY DISTRICT 6 —To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.50, and middle school lunches are $2.75, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1 Mac n’cheese; chicken salad sandwich 2 Bean & cheese burrito; green chile 3 Herb chicken w/roll; PBJ 4 Turkey w/roll; Italian hoagie 5 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza; PBJ 8 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 9 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 10 Lasagna w/breadstick; PBJ 11 Pot roast w/egg noodles; ham &

cheese hoagie 12 Pepperoni or cheese pizza 15 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad 16 Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich; turkey & cheese wrap 17 Pasta w/meat sauce; PBJ 18 Toasted cheese sandwich w/tomato soup; Italian hoagie HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

MIDDLE SCHOOL 1 Mac n’cheese; chicken salad sandwich 2 Bean & cheese burrito; green chile 3 Herb chicken w/roll; PBJ 4 Turkey w/roll; Italian hoagie 5 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza; PBJ 8 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 9 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 10 Lasagna w/breadstick; PBJ 11 Pot roast w/egg noodles; ham &

cheese hoagie 12 Pepperoni or cheese pizza 15 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad 16 Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich; turkey & cheese wrap 17 Pasta w/meat sauce; PBJ 18 Toasted cheese sandwich w/tomato soup; Italian hoagie HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT — Price for elementary lunch is $2.35, for middle school students, $2.55. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1 Chicken patty; uncrustables w/cheese sticks 2 Fiesta twist; corn dog 3 Nacho cheese; uncrustables w/cheese sticks 4 Popcorn chicken; twin cheeseburger 5 Stuffed crust pepperoni or cheese pizza; turkey &

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cheese hoagie 8 Taco; uncrustables w/ cheese sticks 9 Rotini w/meatballs; corn dog 10 French toast sticks; uncrustables w/cheese sticks 11 Chicken drumstick; twin cheeseburger

12 Cheese pizza flatbread; turkey & cheese sub 15 Mac n’cheese; uncrustables w/cheese sticks 16 Teriyaki chicken; corn dog 17 Grilled cheese sandwich; uncrustables w/cheese sticks 18 Turkey & gravy; twin cheeseburger

19 Big Daddy’s cheese pizza; turkey & cheese sub HAPPY HOLIDAYS! SECONDARY SCHOOL 1 Chicken sandwich 2 Popcorn chicken 3 Nachos cheese 4 Popcorn chicken 5 Potato bar 8 Taco

9 Rotini w/meatballs 10 French toast sticks 11 Bean & cheese burrito 12 Steak & cheese sub 15 Mac n’cheese 16 Teriyaki chicken 17 Grilled cheese sandwich 18 Turkey & gravy 19 Meatball sub HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

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Holiday Fun! Story time with Santa Thursday and Friday at 11:30am November 29TH through December 21ST

Like us on Facebook

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www.clothespony.com (970) 224-2866• 111 N. College Avenue

B Locuay l!

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Saturday, December 13 Cranknstein, 215 N. College Ave. Ride 2-4pm•Celebration 4-6pm

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DECEMBER 2014 ONGOING DECEMBER 5 THROUGH JANUARY 1, 2015 Garden of Lights See your favorite perennial flower beds, a brilliant blue LED pond and a Primordial Forest all created entirely from holiday lights. During the weekends, visit with Santa, listen to holiday music and enjoy warm drinks. $2 suggested donation MondayThursday; Friday, Saturday and Sunday, ticketed admission required.

Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 5-9pm. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

DECEMBER 5 AND 6 Acoustic Eidolon: Friends Across the Ocean Acoustic Eidolon returns to the Rialto for their annual Holiday concert!

Joining them this year is Celtic Harpist Thomas Loefke from Berlin, Germany. $20 adult, $15 senior/student. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 970-962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org

DECEMBER 12-14 Canyon Concert Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” Canyon Concert Ballet is proud to present two performances of Artistic Director Daniel R. Simmons’ The Nutcracker this holiday season. Ticket prices and show times vary. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. www.lctix.com or 970-221-6730.

The Nutcracker Colorado Dance Theatre presents its 20th Annual production of Tchaikovsky’s iconic ballet featuring a live orchestra directed by Dr. Russell Guyver. Ticket prices and show times vary. Children under age 3 not admitted. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 2pm. 970 3565000 or www.ucstars.com.

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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Great American Christmas World-renowned singer Tony Orlando performs holiday favorites. Tickets prices and show times vary. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Marketplace Drive, Johnstown. 970-744-3747 or www.coloradocandlelight.com.

Hallelujuh! A Gospel Christmas The glorious music and timeless message of Christmas are brought to electrifying heights when the acclaimed Loveland Choral Society voices, versatile Vocal-EZE octet, talented Christmas Orchestra and special guest soloists join forces for an inspirational celebration. $17. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. Show times vary. 970-962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

THROUGH DECEMBER 31 Miracle on 34th Street A musical adaptation of the popular holiday favorite. Tickets prices and show times vary. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Marketplace Drive, Johnstown. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com.

GED Pretests for Youth The Larimer County Workforce Center provides free, official pretests to young adults, ages 16-21, to help determine their readiness for the GED exam.

Dates and locations vary. 970-498-6624 or www.larimerworkforce.org.

THROUGH JANUARY 11, 2015 Ralph Nagel Impressions of Ghost Ranch Through large-format watercolor paintings, Colorado artists Ralph Nagel records the ever-changing landscape around Ghost Ranch, New Mexico, the same region that inspired artist Georgia O’Keefe. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 6-8pm. 970-962-2410 or www. cityofloveland.org.

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THROUGH DECEMBER 15 Yoga Basics An introduction to the foundational poses, this class will focus on careful physical alignment for the creation of safe practice. $48 for six weeks. North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. Mondays, 4:30-5:30pm. 970-3506633 or bannerhealth.com.

THROUGH DECEMBER 16 Yoga Basics An introduction to the foundational poses, this class will focus on careful physical alignment for the creation of safe practice. $48 for six weeks. McKee Medical Center, 2000 Boise Ave., LV. Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30pm. 970-350-6633 or www.bannerhealth.com.

DECEMBER 4-19 Story Time with Santa Come meet Santa and listen to him read holiday stories. Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys, 111 N. College Ave., FC. Thursdays and Fridays, 11:30am. 970-224-2866 or www.facebook.com/clothespony.

FRIDAYS Friday Morning Sing Alongs Sing, dance and shake up a storm.

Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys, 111 North College Ave., FC. 11am12noon. www.downtownfortcollins. com.

DECEMBER 6, 13, 20 Breakfast with Santa Join Santa for breakfast. Includes a 5x7 photo, goody bags and door prize giveaways. Buy tickets in advance. $10, cash only. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, 5971 Sky Pond Drive, LV. 970-461-1285 or www. thepromenadeshopsatcenterra.com.

Saturdays, 8:30-10am. 970-461-1285.

DECEMBER 7, 14, 21 Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides Step back in time and enjoy an oldfashioned, horse-drawn carriage ride down Main Street. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, 5971 Sky Pond Drive, LV. (Rides depart in front of The Ice Rink.)

Sundays, 12noon-4pm. 970-461-1285 or www.thepromenadeshopsatcenterra.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2 Meal and a Spiel A presentation for parents, grandparents, guardians and educators of adolescents about driving and DUI’s, and the differences in law for adolescents and adults. Bring your own lunch. The Center for Family Outreach, 1100 Poudre River Drive, Ste. B, FC. 12noon-1pm. 970-495-0084 or www. thecenterforfamilyoutreach.org.

Sip & Shop Ladies Night Out Grab your gal pals and enjoy a night of cocktails, delicious appetizers, spotlight fashion shows from local boutiques, shopping, amazing door prizes, holiday hair and make-up demonstrations, a silent auction and more! $15. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 5:30-8pm. 970-356-5000 or www. greeleyfestivaloftrees.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3 Festival of Trees Celebrate the holidays in a winter wonderland of beautifully decorated trees, plus stroll through yuletide displays enjoy the delightful sounds of Brentwood Middle School Ensembles and the Greeley Central High School Holiday Music Concert, horse and carriage rides, crafts and scavenger hunts, face painting, door prize drawings and a silent auction. $1 for children 1-12 years, and seniors 60 and older. $2 for adults. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 3-9pm. 970-356-5000 or www. greeleyfestivaloftrees.com.

Downtown Loveland Community Tree Lighting Includes music by the Original Dickens’ Carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, photos with Santa, face painting, and food and treats. Civic Center, 3rd St. and Washington Ave., LV. 4:30-6:30pm. 970-962-2410 or www.cityofloveland.org.

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eReader Fair Learn how to access HPLD’s large collection of eBooks, Audiobooks, fullcolor eMagazines, downloadable music and even streaming movies, all for free.

Bring your own tablet, phone or laptop.

Participants need to have a valid email address and password, and a current HPLD library card. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6pm.

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

Holiday Herbal Gift Making In this class you’ll learn about the properties of many herbs that are great to use when making infused oils & vinegars. $30. Golden Poppy Herbal Apothecary, 212 S. Mason St., FC. 6:15-7:15pm. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

TobacNO Youth Coalition-Loveland Meeting Loveland youth (12-18) are invited to join TobacNO to learn about tobacco issues, develop leadership skills, meet new teens and work together on projects that can reduce tobacco use and illness in Loveland. RSVP required. Loveland Public Library, Erion Room, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-498-6718 or timmerca@larimer.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 Digital Photo Editing with Picasa Learn to enhance, organize and share your digital photos using Picasa, a free and user friendly photo editing program. Registration required.

Harmony Library, Computer Lab, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

Christmas Magic: A Celtic Holiday Concert Created by Dave Villano and performed by 12 of Colorado’s top musicians, this magical evening of traditional, Celtic and contemporary holiday music is sure to entertain. $25 adult, $15 senior/ student/military, $10 children 12 and under. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm. 970-962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

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PechaKucha Night Informal gathering at which creative people get together and share their ideas, works, thoughts and experiences (pretty much anything goes) in the PechaKucha 20x20 format: 20 images shown for 20 seconds each. You’ll be introduced to a wide variety of topics, personalities and adventures as our diverse group of speakers engage in a 400-second presentation about a topic of their choice. Loveland Museum/ Gallery, Foote Auditorium, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 7pm. 970-962-2410 or www.cityofloveland.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 Jingle Bell Run/Walk® A fun, festive event for the whole family where reindeer antlers and running shoes are both welcome. Registration fees vary.

CSU Oval, FC. 8am-registration; 10amfun run; 10:15am-race start. www.jinglebellrunnortherncolorado. kintera.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 Web Page Design With SnapPages Learn to create an entire website online with drag and drop simplicity.

Registration required. Harmony Library, Computer Lab, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 9-11am. 970-221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org.

First Friday: A Night of Art Tour participating art galleries and soak in the beauty of original, one of a kind art; some of it’s for sale.

Downtown Art Galleries & Studios, GR. 5-8pm. www.greeleydowntown.com.

Town of Timnath Tree Lighting Visit with Santa, enjoy cookies, chili and drinks, and watch the town light up. Old Town Timnath. 5:30-7:30pm. www.timnathco.govoffice2.com.

Carolfest People of all ages and singing abilities can carol the streets of Old Town Fort Collins while being led by professional singers. Begins at the Opera Galleria, 123 N. College Ave., FC. 6-8pm. www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Poncho Villa’s Pistols and Embraces An examination of this intriguing personality and the significance (political and cultural) of firearms in the Mexican Revolution. Museum members-free; others- $5. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 6:30pm. 970-221-4600 or www. globalvillagemuseum.org.

Teddy Bear Bash Children can spend the morning meeting Christopher the Christmas Bear getting a holiday tattoo; playing Pin the Nose on the Bear; walking through beautifully decorated trees; watching Colorado Dance Theater’s Nutcracker dancers; fishing at the North Pole Fish ‘n Hole; and much more! $5.

Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 9-11am. 970-356-5000 or www.greeleyfestivaloftrees.com.

Sugar Plum Fairy Story Time The Sugar Plum Fairy will lead a story time and brief ballet lesson. $10.

Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 10am. 970-484-7898 or www. oldfirehousebooks.com.

Create a Christmas Wreath Create your own natural holiday wreath using evergreens, natural materials and a bow. Examples, instructions, assistance and materials will be provided. $25 ($5 discount for Garden members). Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10am12noon. 970-416-2468 or www.fcgov. com/gardens.

ennis T l l a F g n i t i Exc Sign Up Now for Fall

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Create a Christmas Swag Swags are vertical or horizontal bundles of greens that look great on a door, mailbox or above a fireplace.

Create your own. Examples, instructions, assistance and materials will be provided. $20 ($3 discount for Garden members.) Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 1:303:30pm. 970-416-2468 or www.fcgov. com/gardens.

Ho-Ho-Holiday Fun The weather outside may be frightful, but inside we’ll be enjoying some holiday fun! Join us as we celebrate the winter season with a variety of entertainments and crafts, suitable for all ages. Make a nifty gift or something special for yourself during this family-friendly program. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 2pm, 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Holiday Herbal Gift Making In this class you’ll learn about the properties of many herbs that are great to use when making infused oils & vinegars. $30. Golden Poppy Herbal Apothecary, 212 S. Mason St., FC. 6:15-7:15pm. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 ‘Tis the Season Community Sing Join Loveland’s own singing sensation, Sharon Sheets, in a fun-filled audience participation event featuring classic and contemporary holiday tunes. Enjoy hot drinks, sweet treats and a break from the hectic pace of the holidays.

The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2120 or www. cityofloveland.org.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 8 Hour of Code Ages 8 and up are invited to join us for activities and programming. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 3pm, 888-861-7323 or www.

MyLibrary.us.

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Meal and a Spiel A presentation for parents, grandparents, guardians and educators of adolescents about activities for adolescents offered by United Way of Larimer County. Bring your own lunch. The Center for Family Outreach, 1100 Poudre River Drive, Ste. B, FC. 12noon-1pm. 970-495-0084 or www. thecenterforfamilyoutreach.org.

Hour of Code Did you know that computer science can help you in any career path? Come on out for Hour of Code and write your first computer program! We’ll show you that it’s so easy, anyone can do it!

Kids in Grades 2-5 are invited to drop in anytime between 4-6 pm. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 4pm, 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Winter Bike to Work Day Ride to work or school and enjoy breakfast along the way. Several locations throughout FC. 7-9:30am. www.fcgov.com/bikewinter.

“A Winter’s Tale” Poetry Leave your cares and obligations at home on the Winter Solitice, and be ready for some merriment and moonlit inspiration.

Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 6-7:30pm. 970-9622410 or www.cityofloveland.org.

Canvas and Cocoa Join us for a cozy painting session while we sip on hot cocoa. Each teen will take home their 8”x10” canvas creation.

All materials provided. Registration is required. Grades 6-12. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 4pm, 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11 Echoes to Bugles: Moving as a Chess Match For both Bobcat and Cottontail, the interaction of predator and prey is a chess match of moving and not moving. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 12noon. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Ripped from the Headlines Online Book Club “Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption” by: Laura Hillenbrand.

Register at www3.gotomeeting.com/ register/277717646. 7pm. 888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

FRIDAY, DECEMVER 12 Shop Friday Game Night Come roll dice, flip cards, stack tiles and move pieces with our game experts and find the game that’s right for you.

Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys, 111 N. College Ave., FC. 5-9pm. 970224-2866 or www.facebook.com/ clothespony.

K-5

5 Plus Lego Mindstorm STEM program for 4th and 5th grades.

Call 970-226-2800 for a tour.

Friday 10 am and 1 pm

www.tpaak.org

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 Dasher 5k Dress to impress with your best holiday outfits for this fun run starting and finishing from the heart of Downtown Estes Park. $40-adults; $20- kids 12 and under. Before the 5K, little elves ages 8 and under can run the kids fun run, safely in a 400 yard dash for free. Town Hall Building, EP. 10am registration; 11am race start. 970-214-4128.

Kidney Smart Education Learn from expert educators about chronic kidney disease and its causes, diet and nutrition, benefits of employment and managing insurance, and treatment choices. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 10:30am.

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

Barbara Fleming’s Fort Collins: A History Local historian Barbara Fleming will discuss her latest book, Fort Collins: A History. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 10am. 970-484-7898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com.

Santa’s Workshop Visit Santa’s Workshop to create crafty holiday gifts for their families. For children ages 3-10. Clearview Library, 720 Third St., WS. 10am-12pm. 970686-5603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

TubaChristmas Come celebrate the holiday season with a community brass band of TUBA Proportions. Oak Street Plaza, Oak St. and College Ave., FC. 2-3pm. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

Winter’s Eve Songfest Holiday songs performed by the Greeley Children’s Chorale. $10-adults, $5-children. First United Methodist Church, 917 10th Ave., GR. 4-6pm. www.greeleychildrenschorale.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Meal and a Spiel A presentation for parents, grandparents, guardians and educators of adolescents about social media, cyber-bullying, sexting and Internet safety for adolescents. Bring your own 46

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lunch. The Center for Family Outreach, 1100 Poudre River Drive, Ste. B, FC. 12noon-1pm. 970-495-0084 or www. thecenterforfamilyoutreach.org.

Easing the Load: Caring for Mexico’s Beasts of Burden An informative and engaging look behind the scenes where Fort Collins’ Angela Gebhart delivers care and compassion to Mexico’s working horses, donkeys, and mules. Free to museum members; others- $5.

Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 W. Mountain Ave., FC. 6:30pm. 970-221-4600 or www. globalvillagemuseum.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17 Study Break Party Take a break from studying for finals!

Come decorate cookies and watch “Frozen” to celebrate the coming of winter vacation. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Gingerbread Houses Learn from professionals how to craft the most delicious and impressive gingerbread house. For tweens ages 8-12 and their grown-ups.

Preregister on library website; required.

Clearview Library, 720 Third St., WS. 5-7pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18 Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit A special hour-long event full of great stories, fun songs, candy canes, a craft and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Clause.

Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 9:30am. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

A Christmas from the Heart The Hazel Miller Band blends Christmas and holiday music, sacred and secular in the styles the band plays best: jazz, pop, gospel and blues. $15 adult, $13 seniors. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 970-962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19 Downtown Fort Collins Foodie Walk Enjoy a self-guided tour of fantastic spice, specialty & culinary oriented shops. Various stores, downtown FC. 5-8pm. www.downtownfortcollins. com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 Ringing in Christmas Bells of the Rockies, an auditioned, highly skilled handbell ensemble, presents both traditional and contemporary musical performance to ring in your Christmas spirit. $15 adult, $10 senior/student, free 6 and under. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm. 970-962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

SUNDAY. DECEMBER 21 A Season of Dance Enjoy this open house performance featuring students of The MacKinnon Royal Dance Institute program and competition dance teams. $10 advance, $15 at the door. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm. 970962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 30 Play-Ground Theatre’s Wild-West Tale Saddle up for one hour of wild western tales, music, and hilarious adventures that all ages will enjoy. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 10:30am.

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31 Ring Out the Year Sing, dance and have fun at this highly interactive, family musical event celebrating the New Year.

Please register children only; adults are expected to attend with children.

Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 10:30am and 11:30 am. 888861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

First Night Fort Collins Presented by The ToothZone. Enjoy performing acts, storytelling, history, interactive craft projects, old favorites, street performers, international dancing and much more. $14.

Downtown FC. 5-10:45pm. www. downtownfortcollins.com.

DO SOMETHING FOR

Yourself!

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time out

Giving up quarters The real gifts of the holidays

MAIA BACCARI

I

t’s my day off and I have errands to run—groceries and other household necessities to buy, toilet paper, laundry detergent and hand soap, which means bringing my 4-year-old daughter into multiple stores with me.

I dread it. I haven’t pinpointed the exact moment that she became such a monster consumer, but she has and I am fairly certain that I am to blame.

Of course, I would love to place the blame on the obvious toy traps in every isle of the grocery store.

“No honey you don’t need a squirt gun, rubber ball, Barbie, monster truck, stuffed armadillo, we are here to buy groceries!” Honestly, it’s surprising more kids don’t get injured falling out of grocery carts while screaming and reaching for some cheap plastic toy hanging in their sightline. I know why I occasionally cave to the “please Mama pleaaaase,” and buy the pink butterfly wand for $2.99. I do it to distract and entertain for 30 minutes so I don’t end up with only beans and broccoli in my cart, and OK, I admit it, I like how happy and thankful she is. I know now that wand isn’t worth it. An expectation of stuff has slowly culminated in her mind. We don’t buy her something every time we go somewhere, not even half of the time, but now she wants something every time, and when she doesn’t get it, well let’s just say the aftermath is unpleasant.

I would also like those awful quarter machines to share some of the blame. If I somehow manage to check out without a meltdown about some random toy, then there they stand, shimmering beacons of plastic crap and toxic tattoos. I think I could have gone on an awesome family vacation with all of the quarters I’ve pumped into those things in the last three years. Instead, I’ve filled the

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landfill with tiny containers, plastic jewelry and sticky creatures covered in dog hair. Worst of all I know that I am supporting the worst labor practices that go on in the factories that produce that junk. But alas, those quarter machines didn’t hold me up in a dark alley, I chose to give them my change, but now I AM DONE. There will be no more quarters in those machines and no more strolls through the toy isle. I will do it for her, as much as for my pocket book. I will not create a mindless consumer. I will not ingrain the idea in her young mind that happiness comes from inanimate objects. I will teach her instead that happiness comes from intangible concepts, love, comfort, understanding and compassion.

With the holidays fast approaching it occurs to me that I don’t want my daughter’s most precious memories of Christmas to be new Frozen toys and beanie boos. I want them to be of bak-

ing cookies together, digging out the ornaments and stockings to adorn the house, donating our time and energy to those less fortunate and sharing meals and memories with family and friends.

Of course I recognize that the joy of giving and receiving is an important part of the holiday tradition, and I look forward to the unstuffing of the stockings and unwrapping of the gifts. As a child nothing was more exciting to me than Christmas morning, but I realize that I rarely received gifts or toys any other time of the year. A large part of the magic of gifts is in the rarity that they are given. I want my daughter to experience that magic, and every plastic ring coming out of a machine, every cheap toy in the discount isle bought on a random Thursday is consuming that magic. This New Year, I resolve to save my quarters and next Christmas, as a family, we will choose a charity to donate them to, because nothing compares to the wonder of giving.

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