SEPTEMBER 2026 • RMPARENT.COM
Visit farms and orchards
Starting kindergarten Packing school lunches Varsity-level prep for fall sports Apps that inspire families to get outdoors
PLUS: LOCAL FOOD AND FARM GUIDE
Harvest Season 2026
CELEBRATING 31 YEARS OF SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO FAMILIES
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Back to Cool at SharkEy’s
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Books Before Kindergarten READING CHALLENGE start reading any time & discover new favorites along the way for pet lovers
SCAN TO DOWLOAD THE APP
OR GO TO
poudrelibraries.beanstack.com
for science lovers
for music lovers
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Foster Hope. Foster Love. Foster Care.
Nobody sits the bench in BMX! Twin Silo BMX 2026 Schedule
Foster families make a big difference in the lives of youth needing a safe place to land. Attend an orientation to learn more!
Local Points Racing Wednesdays - 5:30 PM Saturdays - 9:00 AM Gate Practice Thursdays - 5:30 PM Open House Free Event Sept. 26 & Oct. 30
EVENT DETAILS
Questions? twinsilobmx@gmail.com facebook.com/twinsilobmx
Sweetness
10 to 11 a.m.
(Q&A and networking to follow until 11:30 a.m.)
Clothes Toys Books Shoes Baby Gifts
Shop in-store, by phone or at ClothesPony.com
! $ (970) 224-2866 • 111 N. College Ave. 4 | RMPARENT
contents
DEPARTMENTS 6 Perspective
The pause that refreshes
8 Family Health
Fueling kids for optimal learning, Packing school lunches, Read up on school meal options and processes
10 Family Fun
Fall harvest visits, Visit a farm, pick apples and veggies and see where food comes from
12 F avorite Things
Varsity-level prep for fall sports
14 T ech Time
Apps that inspire families to get outdoors
28 C alendar
Events and activities for parents, kids and families
30 Time out
The beautifully awkward journey of raising independent teenagers
SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS 20 Poudre
Healthy Kids Colorado Survey shows continued positive trends for PSD Students
FEATURE 16 The first month of kindergarten
Starting kindergarten can be exciting, scary and
liberating. Getting used to new routines, friendships and a sense of independence is a lot for a
kindergartener. Pay attention to what is going on with your little one and help them through the changes.
SPECIAL SECTION Browse activities and enrichment opportunities for your kids and family.
22 Thompson
Jackson Stewart charts a course above
the horizon
24 Greeley Dist 6
The D6 Difference: Ali Pilgrim,
LOCAL FOOD AND FARM GUIDE
Harvest Season 2026
Human Resources
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Perspective
SCOTT TITTERINGTON
The pause that refreshes This month, we have a group campsite reserved at Dowdy Lake in Red Feathers Lakes. We try to get up there every year if we can. Our campsite is right on the lake and at sunset the water matches the colors of the sky. It’s quiet like you can’t get in the city, and just sitting by the edge of the water makes me feel calmer, takes me away from my usual day-to-day and gives me a little perspective. Family and friends will come camp with us, too, and we’ll bring some boats to paddle around the lake. It’s always super casual with no one being in a hurry to do anything and nowhere to go. We spend evenings hanging out as the day cools off and the stars come out. For as long as I can remember, I have found that nature is my happy place where I recharge and let go of all the little stuff. Even if I get out for just a few hours, I get a boost. I slipped out for a few hours for a little adventure this past Sunday with a couple of buddies. Sure I was tired when I got home but I was refreshed and animated too. It’s hard to explain, but time outdoors is just good for us. Our minds thrive, and our bodies come alive. I’ve read that even having a picture of nature on your computer screen can make you feel more relaxed and content. Our front porch is surrounded by shrubs and trees and birds sing from the branches. We find ourselves drawn to sit out there often. It’s not the big immersion but a little touch of wild soothes and relaxes us. September is a great time to get out. The weather is cooling. The air is crisp and the skies tend to be clear. Check out Katie Harris’ story about apps that can help you, as she says, turn your screen time into green time. She presents a nice variety and they look fun. Happy trails, Scott
SEPTEMBER 2026 • Volume 31, Issue 4 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Harting susan.rmpublishing@gmail.com COVER PHOTO
istock photo CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Theresa Baer, Lea Hanson, Katie Harris
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 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 constitute 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. ©2026 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.
OUR COMMUNITY PARTNER:
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Youth Engineering & Science Festival
Festival Juvenil de Ingeniería y Ciencia LINC Library Innovation Center 501 8th Ave, Greeley
Need a little extra help? We’re here for you. Groceries for the household Clothing & household items Utility assistance, and more BERTHOUD Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9-5 375 Meadowlark Dr. | hosted at Grace Place
Sept. 19th
S!fest YE
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honservice.org
LOVELAND Monday-Wednesday, 9-4 | Thursdays, 9-6 1511 E. 11th St. | at the Life Center
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House of Neighborly Service
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Fiesta In the plaza: ARTE Y TRADICIÓN
Celebrate Latino arts and culture in Weld County! Saturday, September 5 3-6 p.m. | Centennial Village Museum Free admission Join us for a vibrant, family-friendly fiesta. Enjoy charro performances, hands-on demonstrations, activities, games, art, and more. Plus—free nachos and cake!
Photo by Gracefully Etched Photography
Scan for more information:
Centennial Village Museum
1475 A St., Greeley, CO 80631 GreeleyMuseums.com | 970-350-9220 /GreeleyMuseums RMPARENT
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Family Health LEA HANSON
Fueling kids for optimal learning AFTER A SUMMER OF LATER BREAKFASTS, flexible meal schedules, and the occasional ice-cream-for-dinner situation, getting kids back into a school-year nutrition routine can take a little practice. The goal isn’t perfection— it’s giving kids the consistent nourishment they need to learn, play, grow, and feel their best. “Quality nutrition plays an essential role in the health and development of infants, children and teens,” says Martha Gooldy Garcia, RD, IBCLC, a Fort Collins pediatric dietitian with more than 30 years of experience in pediatric nutrition. Start by bringing back predictable meal and snack times. A balanced breakfast can help kids begin the day ready to learn, while packing a lunch and snack gives them reliable fuel when hunger strikes. Aim for variety, including fruits and vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy or another calcium-rich option throughout the day.
Read up on school meals
Colorado’s Healthy School Meals for All program allows participating public school districts to provide breakfast and lunch at no cost to every student, regardless of household income. Even when meals are free, families are encouraged to complete their district’s income or benefits application because the information can help schools receive additional funding and may connect families with other benefits.
Packing healthy lunches When it comes to school lunches, the goal is to make sure kids have food they will actually eat— and enough nourishment to fuel their bodies and brains through the afternoon. Aim for variety when packing lunches. Include a combination of protein, whole grains, fruits or vegetables, and dairy or another calcium-rich food. When possible, involve kids in planning, shopping, and preparing their meals. These small family routines can help children develop a positive relationship with food while making busy school mornings a little easier.
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Here’s what that looks like locally: • Poudre School District: Most students will receive free breakfast and lunch during the 2026–27 school year. • Thompson School District: Breakfast and lunch are available at no cost to students. • Greeley-Evans School District 6: All enrolled students can receive free breakfast and lunch. • Weld RE-4: All enrolled students receive one free breakfast and one free lunch each school day during 2026–27. The district also offers additional a la carte options for purchase. Whether your child eats school lunches or brings lunch from home, take advantage of the resources available to your family. A well-fed child is better prepared to learn, participate, and make the most of the school day.
O Fe t h e R v i G Y E A Gi
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Films. Pizza. Beer. What more could you want from your local indie theater?
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Check out lyriccinema.com for showtimes. 1209 N College Ave, Fort Collins, Co.
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Family Fun
KATIE HARRIS
Fall harvest visits THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT harvesting your own food that slows life down and brings families together. Fall, with its bounty of fruits and vegetables ripe for the picking, is a perfect time to make memories together while enjoying your own fresh-picked harvest. Adam’s Apple Orchard Adamsapplecolorado.com If you’re looking for an old-fashioned applepicking experience, Adam’s Apple Orchard offers just that. Located near Ault, the family-owned orchard welcomes visitors during apple harvest season to pick from a variety of trees. Apples are sold by the pound, making it easy to gather enough for fresh eating, applesauce or homemade pies. The orchard’s laid-back atmosphere gives children the chance to see where fruit comes from while enjoying a simple afternoon outdoors. Because harvest timing depends on weather, it’s a good idea to confirm opening dates and available varieties before visiting. Ya Ya Farm and Orchard Yayafarmandorchard.com Ya Ya Farm & Orchard, located in west Longmont, offers families the chance to pick apples straight from the trees during harvest season. Depending on the weather and crop, visitors may find several apple varieties ripening throughout late summer and early fall. In addition to the orchard, families can browse the farm stand for fresh produce, homemade baked goods and local products. The peaceful setting also makes it a great place to slow down and enjoy Colorado’s changing fall colors. Before heading out, check the farm’s website or social media for current picking conditions and available varieties. Miller Farms Millerfarms.net Throughout late summer and fall, families can harvest their own vegetables right from the fields at Miller Farms near Platteville. Depending on the season, visitors may find
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Tips for a successful farm visit—A little preparation can make your farm outing much more enjoyable. • Wear closed-toe shoes that can get dirty, along with sunscreen and hats for sunny afternoons. • Bring water to stay hydrated while walking through orchards, paths or fields. • Don’t forget gardening tools for digging up carrots or cutting pumpkin vines, plus reusable bags or boxes if the farm recommends them. • Most importantly, be flexible. Harvest seasons depend on weather, and what’s available can change from week to week. Checking each farm’s website or social media before heading out can help ensure you’ll find ripe fruit and vegetables waiting for your family.
everything from potatoes and onions to peppers, squash, corn and pumpkins ready to pick. Families can climb aboard the farm’s wagons that transport visitors out to the fields, where they’ll receive harvesting instructions before filling bags with fresh produce. The farm also features farm animals, play areas and seasonal activities that make it easy to spend the day there. Bartels Farm Thebartelspumpkinpatch.com Located in Windsor, Bartels Farm grows a variety of seasonal produce, and availability changes throughout the harvest season. Picking your own vegetables allows children to experience how food grows while encouraging them to try fresh fruits and vegetables they helped gather themselves. The farm stand also offers freshly picked produce for those who’d rather skip the harvesting and head straight home with dinner ingredients. Check ahead for harvest schedules and what’s currently available before your visit.
SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION in TSD Multiple Years Running in TSD Multiple Years Running
HIGHEST AVERAGE SAT SCORE HIGHEST AVERAGE SCORE in TSD Multiple YearsSAT Running in TSD Multiple Years Running
#1 IN ACTIVE VOLUNTEERS #1 IN ACTIVE VOLUNTEERS in TSD Multiple Years Running in TSD Multiple Years Running
ENROLL NOW
Loveland Classical Schools is a tuition-free classical and Core Knowledge public charter school school serving serving grades grades charter K-12 in the Thompson School K-12 in the Thompson School District in in Northern Northern Colorado. Colorado. District
“I would happily pay a tuition “I would happily pay a tuition for the kind of education my for the kind of education my son receives and so grateful son receives and so grateful that he goes here tuition free.” that he goes here tuition free.”
“I am thrilled with what my “I am thrilled with what my children are learning... children are learning... compared with what some of compared with what some of their peers are learning.” their peers are learning.”
“My kids have attended since “My kids have attended since kindergarten. The community kindergarten. The community is great and my kids love it. is great and my kids love it. Amazing teachers!” Amazing teachers!”
STEPHANIE M. M. STEPHANIE GOOGLE REVIEW
LCS PARENT PARENT LCS GREAT SCHOOLS REVIEW
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th
3835 14 St. SW THE LYCEUM Loveland, 3835 14 CO St.80537 SW THEGrades LYCEUM K-5 Loveland, CO 80537 th
Grades K-5
Phone Phone 970-541-1507 970-541-1507
FACEBOOK REVIEW
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3015 W. 29 St. THE ACADEMY Loveland, 3015 W.CO 29 80538 St. THEGrades ACADEMY 6-12 Loveland, CO 80538 th
Grades 6-12
Email Email info@lovelandclassical.org info@lovelandclassical.org
Website Website www.lovelandclassical.org RMPARENT | 11 www.lovelandclassical.org
Favorite Things
LEA HANSON
Varsity-level prep for fall sports FALL SPORTS SEASON COMES with plenty of excitement—and plenty of stuff. Between keeping athletes equipped, entertaining siblings, and staying comfortable on chilly sidelines, parents often need to be prepared for just about anything. These practical finds from local stores can help make game days and practices a little easier, more organized, and more enjoyable for the whole family. Consider these few smart additions to your sports-parent toolkit.
IQ Waves (or any/all travel game) Cost: $15 Buy from: Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys, 111 N. College Ave., Fort Collins When siblings have to tag along to practices and games, keeping them entertained can be almost as challenging as keeping track of the sports schedule. The IQ Waves Travel Game is a compact, screen-free option that slips easily into a bag and gives kids something engaging to do while they wait. Its simple, hands-on design makes it easy to play on the go—whether you’re sitting on the sidelines, waiting in the car, or filling time between games. Of course, any favorite travel game can serve the same purpose. A deck of cards, small puzzle, or magnetic game can help turn “How much longer?” into a little more peace and a lot less boredom.
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5v Heated Folding Bleacher Seat Cost: $170 Buy from: JAX, 1200 N College Ave., Fort Collins Fall sports can mean chilly mornings, windy afternoons, and long stretches sitting on metal bleachers. The 5V Heated Folding Bleacher Seat helps parents stay comfortable while cheering from the sidelines. Its built-in 5V heating system provides warmth when temperatures drop, while the padded seat and backrest offer much-needed comfort during games and practices. The folding design makes it easy to carry and store, and adjustable straps help secure it to the bleachers. For sports parents, it’s a simple piece of gear that can make a surprisingly big difference. Because being prepared for fall sports means packing for the weather—not just the game.
Kelty Car-Go-Box Cost: $115 Buy from: Scheels, 4755 Ronald Reagan Blvd, Johnstown Sports parents know that “just bring the essentials” is rarely an option. Extra socks, water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, towels, jackets, and somehow a stray soccer ball, can quickly take over your car. The Kelty Car-Go-Box helps keep the chaos organized with three color-coded, collapsible storage pods inside a sturdy folding case. Adjustable straps keep everything secure, while durable 600D polyester stands up to regular use. Best of all, it folds down when you need the space. For parents constantly preparing for the unexpected, it’s a simple way to keep sports gear organized and be ready for whatever game day throws your way.
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Christian values • Small class sizes • Experienced staff Nature-based classrooms • Nonprofit ministry WE PARTICIPATE IN UNIVERSAL PRE-K 970.230.5065 | MorningGloryPreschoolFC.org 301 East Drake Road | Fort Collins
OCTOBER 22-25 | NIGHTLY Explore The Gardens on Spring Creek—where glowing gourds and spooky family-friendly fun light up the night! Children four and under get in for free.
FortCollins.gov/GardensPumpkins
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Family Tech
KATIE HARRIS
Apps that inspire families to get outdoors TECHNOLOGY OFTEN GETS a bad rap for keeping kids indoors, but these apps encourage families to unplug, get active and turn screen time into green time.
Geocaching The Geocaching app uses GPS coordinates to help users find hidden containers, called geocaches, hidden away in parks, neighborhoods, hiking trails and public spaces around the world. Once you locate a cache, you’ll usually sign a logbook, sometimes trade a small trinket and then leave it hidden for the next adventurer. The app allows families to search for “treasure” using problem-solving skills, teamwork and outdoor exploration. There are caches suitable for every age and ability, making it easy to find one close to home or while traveling.
AllTrails
Whether you’re looking for a stroller-friendly nature walk or a challenging mountain hike, AllTrails helps find an adventure that fits your family. The app includes thousands of hiking, walking and biking trails with information on distance, elevation gain, estimated hiking time and user reviews. Many reviews also include recent trail conditions, and photos and notes about creek crossings, mud or wildlife sightings. Parents can filter trails by length, difficulty and route type, making it easier to choose hikes appropriate for young children. It’s also a great resource when you’re visiting a new area and don’t know where to start.
Seek by iNaturalist
If your child has ever wondered what kind of butterfly landed nearby or what kind of tree is growing in your backyard, Seek by
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iNaturalist has their answers. The app turns nature walks into interactive science lessons—simply point your phone’s camera at a plant, insect, mushroom or animal, and the image recognition software can identify many species instantly. Unlike some identification apps, Seek is made for families and doesn’t require users to create an account. Children can also earn digital badges as they discover different plants and animals, adding an extra layer of fun while encouraging curiosity about the natural world.
Skyview
After the sunsets, open up SkyView to identify stars, constellations, planets and even satellites by simply pointing a phone or tablet toward the night sky. As you move your device, the app labels celestial objects in real time, making astronomy accessible even for beginners. Whether you’re camping, watching a meteor shower or lying in the backyard on a clear evening, SkyView can help children connect what they see overhead with the science they’re learning in school.
Playground buddy
Playground Buddy helps families locate nearby playgrounds both at home and while traveling. Listings often include photos, amenities and details such as restrooms, shade, parking and accessibility features, making it easier to find parks that fit your family’s needs. Use it on road trips when kids need to stretch their legs or weekends when you’re looking to explore a new neighborhood without spending hours searching online.
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The FIrst month of
kindergarten New routines, expectations and gaining independence
Katie Harris The transition to full-day school is a big adjustment for most kindergarteners, whether or not they attended preschool. Even after they’ve successfully navigated the first day, nerves, overwhelm and exhaustion can linger throughout the first month or two. Kids who seem well-adjusted and are enjoying school still might need an extra dose of encouragement and patience in the early days, and Jennifer Schneider, a kindergarten teacher at Loveland Classical School, says there are a few ways parents can help make the move to kindergarten go more smoothly.
Expect some nerves
It’s normal for children to feel anxious in the mornings before school. Schneider says books like Color Monster or the Little Spot series can be great tools to help children identify and talk about their emotions. She also encourages parents to keep their words simple and reassuring.
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“I know it’s hard, but I’ll be there to pick you up after school,” she suggests saying. Brief encouragement often works better than long explanations. Breakfast is also an important step in the morning routine. Even if your child doesn’t eat much because of nerves, Schneider recommends offering something small to help them get through the morning.
Keep goodbyes short
Many parents are reluctant to leave if their child isn’t smiling and happily walking into the classroom. While that instinct is understandable, Schneider says lingering usually makes separation harder. “The quicker, the better,” she says. “The best route is to offer a hug or a high five, then go.” The longer parents stay, the more children tend to cling, making it more difficult for everyone involved. Teachers expect some tears during those first days and are prepared to comfort children.
“We’ll hug them, love them and reassure them,” Schneider says. “I’ve never had to call a parent because a child didn’t recover from drop-off.” Creating a simple goodbye ritual such as a hug, high five or special phrase like “hug and go” helps children know what to expect each morning and reminds them that their parent will always return.
Kindergarten is about learning routines
Parents often picture kindergarten as jumping right into reading and math lessons, but during the first weeks, much of the learning is about simply learning how to be in school. Children practice standing in line, raising their hands, sharing supplies, listening to directions and using a shared bathroom. Academic lessons start in short bursts of 10 to 15 minutes at a time until children’s attention spans grow. Schneider says, at this age, kids aren’t sitting at desks for much of the day. Most kindergarten schedules include two to three recesses per day, along with movement and stretching breaks, water breaks and specials like art, music and physical education. A typical day might include gathering on a reading rug, taking snack breaks, eating lunch together and enjoying a quiet rest period with dimmed lights, classical music and coloring. Some children may even fall asleep. “We slowly build up their endurance,” Schneider says.
Independence matters
Teachers are always happy to help, but a little independence goes a long way. Before school starts, Schneider recommends practicing everyday skills at home, including opening lunch containers and snack packages, putting on coats and sweaters, using zippers, putting on shoes, going to the bathroom independently and following three-step instructions. Many kindergarteners struggle with tasks like opening thermoses, peeling bananas and tying their shoes, which can cut into snack and recess time when multiplied by an entire class of kids. Small adjustments, like clipping a tiny corner off a fruit snack package before packing lunch, can make a child’s day much easier.
Friendships often come naturally with time
Parents often worry about whether their child will make friends, but Schneider says kindergarteners are naturally social. “I love this age,” she says. “As a general rule, they make friends easily.” The bigger challenge isn’t making friends—it’s learning social skills like waiting, taking turns and solving small conflicts. If someone cuts in line or grabs a toy, young children
may instinctively shove or push, especially boys, Schneider says. Teachers use those moments to coach children to use words first and seek adult help only if needed. Parents can reinforce those same lessons at home by encouraging kindness and inclusion. “If someone asks, ‘Can I play with you?’ we include them,” Schneider says. “Not everyone has to be your best friend, but we can be kind to everyone.”
Be prepared for after-school meltdowns
Even children who have great days at school may completely fall apart once they get home. After spending hours listening, learning and following directions, many kindergarteners run out of emotional energy. “Know it might be rough in the beginning,” Schneider says. “Expect more meltdowns and a total shift in schedule and routine.” Some children fall asleep in the car but then struggle to sleep at bedtime. Others become emotional or extra clingy. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, Schneider says. Some families benefit from a consistent after-school routine, like visiting the park every Wednesday, while others simply need a quiet snack and downtime. The important thing is remembering that this stage is temporary. As children adjust over the first month or two, evenings often become much smoother.
Ask open-ended questions
If you’ve ever asked, “Did you have a good day?” only to hear “Uh huh,” you’re not alone. Instead, Schneider recommends asking specific questions that help children remember parts of their day. You can try: • What made you smile today? • Who did you talk to during lunch? • What book did you read? • What did you color a picture of? • What’s something new you learned? If your teacher sends weekly classroom newsletters, use them as conversation starters by asking about a particular activity, story or lesson your child experienced.
Partner with your teacher
If your child is struggling with anxiety, behavior changes or something they mention happened at school, don’t wait to reach out. “We’d rather know sooner than later if there’s something you or your student is concerned about,” Schneider says. Teachers can often provide context, watch for issues in the classroom or work with families to develop strategies together. “Especially if it’s your first child in kindergarten, we’re happy to partner with you and come alongside you to make the process a positive one.” RMPARENT
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Twin Silo BMX: A Fort Collins BMX Track Built on Community, Confidence, and Fun
Twin Silo BMX has long been a familiar and beloved part of the Northern Colorado recreation community. This long-running local track offers a place where riders can challenge themselves, make connections, and experience the thrill of BMX (Bicycle Motocross) in a great environment. Starting this year, Twin Silo BMX is now managed by new track operator Chance Phillips, along with a dedicated team of volunteers who help keep the track running. Like many tracks across the country, Twin Silo is entirely volunteer-powered.
From maintaining the track surface to organizing races and community events, volunteers are at the heart of everything that happens at Twin Silo. Their work ensures that fun and safety remain at the forefront for every rider who rolls up to the starting gate. The mission of Twin Silo BMX is simple but meaningful: to provide a safe, inclusive, and exciting space where riders of all ages and skill levels can develop their BMX abilities, build confidence, support one another, and connect through a shared passion for riding.
For kids, BMX offers much more than racing. It promotes physical fitness, coordination, balance, and outdoor activity. It also builds confidence and resilience, as riders learn to set goals, overcome challenges, and celebrate progress at their own pace. One of the best things about BMX is that nobody sits on the bench! Every rider gets a chance to participate, improve, and be part of the action. Whether your child is brand new to biking or already loves to ride, Twin Silo BMX offers a welcoming place to learn, grow, and have fun!
Weekly Schedule
BEGINNER LEAGUE
LADIES’ NIGHT GATE PRACTICE
Wednesday Racing Thursday Gate Practice Saturday Racing
August 4th-September 11th Tuesdays 5:30-6:30 Fridays 5:30-7:00 Beginner/Novice Racers Only!
Check Facebook for dates and times! Practice and learn about BMX in a low-key environment
Contact us: twinsilobmx@gmail.com 18 | RMPARENT
Follow us: facebook.com/twinsilobmx
LOCAL FOOD AND FARM GUIDE
Harvest Season 2026
INSIDE: YOUR GUIDE TO FARM STANDS AND FARMERS’ MARKETS GROWING SEASON 2021
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2026 NoCo
Farmers Markets
Berthoud Market at Town Park 200 N 7th St., Berthoud Saturdays, June 13–Sept. 26, 9am–1pm berthoud.org/1430/The-Berthoud-Market-At-Town-Park Erie Farmers Market Briggs Street between Wells and Moffatt, Erie Thursdays, 5–8pm, May 7–Sept. 17 realfarmersmarketco.com Estes Valley Farmers Market Visitor Center, 500 Big Thompson Ave., EP Thursdays, 8am–1pm, June–Sept. facebook.com/EstesValleyFarmersMarket Fort Collins Farmers Market 1001 E. Harmony Rd., FC (rain or shine) Sundays, 10am–2pm, May 3–Nov. 8 Wednesdays, 10am–2pm, June 3–Sept. 30 fortcollinsfarmersmarket.org facebook.com/fortcollinsfarmersmarket Greeley Summer Farmers Market 7th Street, between 9th and 10th Avenues, north of Lincoln Park, GR Saturdays, 8am–Noon, May 2–Oct. 31 greeleyco.gov/events/farmers-market facebook.com/greeleyfarmersmarket Greeley Winter Farmers Market Zoe’s Café & Event Center, 715 10th St, GR 1st & 3rd Saturdays, 9am–Noon, Nov.–April greeleyco.gov/events/farmers-market facebook.com/greeleyfarmersmarket Larimer County Farmers Market 200 W. Oak St., FC (courthouse parking lot) Saturdays, 9am–1pm, May 16–Oct. 31 larimercountyfarmersmarket.org Loveland Farmers Market Fairgrounds Park, 700 S. Railroad Ave., LV Sundays, 9am–1pm, June 1–Sept. 27 lovgov.org/FarmersMarket Loveland West Farmers Market at Jax 2665 W Eisenhower Blvd, LV Tuesdays, 9am–1pm, April 21–Nov. 3 facebook.com/LovelandWestFarmersMarket Timnath Farmers Market Colorado Feed & Grain, 4138 Main St., Timnath Second & Fourth Sundays, 10am–2pm, May–Oct TimnathFarmersMarket.org Wildcraft Farmers Market (formerly Fort Collins Winter Farmers Market) Foothills Mall, 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC Second Saturdays, 10am–2pm, May–Oct.; Saturdays, 10am–2pm beginning Nov. & continue year-round wildcraftmarkets.com Windsor Farmers Market Boardwalk Park, 100 5th St., Windsor Saturdays, 8am–12:30pm, June 6–Sept. 5 windsorgov.com/FarmersMarket
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GROWING SEASON 2021
FARM STANDS Bartels Farm 3424 E. Douglas Rd., FC thebartelsfarm.com facebook.com/The-Bartels-PumpkinPatch-137755902661 Chapmans Produce 31985 CR 17, Windsor facebook.com/ChapmansProduce Desiderata Ranch 4617 W. CR 2, Berthoud desiderataranch.org Folks Farm & Seed 2917 S. Taft Hill Rd., FC folksfarmandseed.com Garden Sweet 719 W. Willox Ln., FC gardensweet.com/farm-stand Hazel Dell Mushrooms 3925 E. CR 32 (Carpenter Rd.), FC hazeldellmushrooms.com
Something about being on a farm just feels good. The pace feels relaxed and your interactions, maybe, more genuine. So swing by a farm stand soon and pick up some deliciousness while you’re at it.
Jodar Farms/Fort Collins Vine Farm Order online/pick up in Fort Collins jodarfarms.com Long Shadow Farm Order online/pick up Berthoud longshadowfarm.wixsite.com/longshadow Native Hill Farm 2100 CR 54G, FC nativehillfarm.com Ollin Farms 8627 N. 95th St., Longmont ollinfarms.com On the Vine at Richmond Farms 3611 Richmond Dr., FC onthevineatrichmondfarms.com OwlTree Farm 4605 E. CR 58, FC owltreefarmco.com Papa Joe’s Honey 4855 W. Eisenhower Blvd., LV papajoeshoney.com facebook.com/PapaJoesLocalHoney
Pope Farms and Produce 6501 West 28th St., GR popefarmsproduce.com Scofield Fruits 1821 W Eisenhower Blvd., LV scofieldfruits.com Sunny Daze Gardens 901 S. CR 5, FC facebook.com/SunnyDazeGardens Tigges Farm 12404 CR 64½, GR tiggesfarmllc.com Vibrant Life Farms 3315 Glade Rd., LV vibrantlifefarms.com Well Fed Farmstead 2229 W. Vine Dr., FC wellfedfarmstead.com
GROWING SEASON 2021
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GROWING SEASON 2021
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School District News: Poudre
Healthy Kids Colorado Survey shows continued trends for PSD
The mental health and well-being of Poudre School District students is of the utmost importance for all those working in the district, and that dedication toward creating safe and enriching learning spaces is evident in the results of Larimer County’s 2025 Healthy Kids Colorado Survey. The biennial survey, which asks high school students a series of questions about their mental health and feelings of safety and belonging in their schools and neighborhoods, provides the community with information about youth health behaviors, protective factors, and emerging trends. This allows organizations, including PSD, to make better informed decisions about programs and resources that support youth well-being. Results from the 2025 survey, across the county and in PSD, indicated continued positive trends for student well-being. This included the percentage of students who felt safe at school, which rose from 94.9 percent in 2023 to 95.8 percent for PSD students specifically, and the
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percentage of students who felt they belonged at their school, which rose from 73.8 percent in 2023 to 78.5 percent. Other notable positive trends for PSD students included: • The percentage of students who marked their stress as manageable rose from 63.3 percent in 2023 to 67 percent in 2025 • T he percentage of students who feel safe in their neighborhood rose from 96.4 percent in 2023 to 97.3 percent in 2025 • T he percentage of students who could ask their parents or guardians for help with a personal problem rose from 87.1 percent in 2023 to 89.2 percent in 2025 “Mental health and belonging have been a priority in Poudre School District for more than four years, and I am incredibly proud of the work our district is doing on behalf of kids,” says Superintendent Brian Kingsley. “There is a great deal to celebrate, and when I have the opportunity to look closely at our data, I can see that this work is making a real difference for our students.”
The district, as with the county as a whole, identified areas where continued collaboration is needed to improve student well-being and mental health. This included for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC students, who reported feeling less welcome in school than their peers, at 65.1 percent and 74.6 percent, respectively. PSD saw a decrease in the number of students who report they would be able to access a loaded firearm without adult permission, declining to 23.8 percent, down from 25.3 percent in 2023. The number of students who said they have used an electronic vapor device sat at 25.1 percent, down from 29.5 percent in 2023. “There is still work to be done in this field to ensure that every single student in PSD feels safe and welcome inside every one of our buildings,” Kingsley said. “It is important not just to me, but to everyone in the district that every PSD student feels like being in their school is not only a good place to learn, but a safe and welcoming place to be.”
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School District News: Thompson Jackson Stewart charts a course above the horizon
Like most young people, Jackson Stewart, Loveland High class of 2026, hasn’t always known what he wanted to do in his future career. “In middle school, you start getting asked what you want to do, what you enjoy?,” Jackson says. “I kind of knew I didn’t want to do a sit-down office kind of job, so I was exploring all of the options.” Jackson’s first experiences with flying planes involved flight simulators and video games. It wasn’t until seventh grade at High Plains School, when he took a flight class at a local airport, that he began to envision a career as a pilot. “I’ve always been interested in transportation in general, even as a kid,” Jackson says. “Airplanes, trains, all of it.”
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Building Confidence in the Air Jackson graduated last May, and is more certain than ever that flying airplanes is what he wants to do with his life—and he has the flight hours to prove it. Jackson has spent over 70 hours piloting planes and earning his private pilot license—something he started working toward when he was 16. Jackson is continuing his training at Aims Community College’s flight school, with the eventual goal of flying commercially. He says that learning to fly a plane is more about understanding how the plane works and mastering the controls than it is about navigating the air. “The hardest part is the regulations and the procedures,” Jackson says. “Once you’re up there, nothing’s holding you. You need to know what
the plane is going to do.” One of the unique things about being a pilot is getting to travel, which is also not lost on Jackson. He hopes to one day be a fully licensed pilot so he can go on bucket list adventures with his family and friends. “Travel is a cool perk of being a pilot,” he says. “I hope to visit most places before I die.” Planning a Career in Aviation After completing all of his training and ratings, Jackson will be able to make a living doing what he has dreamed of doing for years: Soaring above the Earth. “It’s kind of cool to be above everything else, not held down by anything,” Jackson says. “You can see everything up there.”
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School District News: Greeley-Evans D6
The D6 Difference: Ali Pilgrim, Human Resources “The sense of community and support from coworkers and the district is undeniable. I appreciate working in an environment where collaborative problem solving is encouraged and everyone’s voice matters.” When you think about your experience in our district, what makes you feel proud to work here? “Knowing that I am part of something much bigger than myself, and that the work that is being done by every district employee will have an impact on thousands of lives every day.” What keeps you feeling connected to and supported by our school community? “Being able to work through issues with people not only in my department but throughout the district helps me feel connected. Knowing that we are all working towards the same goal makes me feel like part of this community.” What’s a fun fact about your job? “We are in charge of decorations for the District 6 Retirement Celebration. I can now make a pretty nice balloon arch.”
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Name: Ali Pilgrim Department: Human Resources Position: HR Substitute Specialist Years of Service in District 6: 8 Years What is one experience with a student or staff member that left a lasting, positive impact on you? “I have the opportunity to work with our amazing substitutes
who are doing such great things throughout the district. Being able to support them as they support our students leaves a lasting impact on me every day.”
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DISCOVER A FORT FORTCOLLINS COLLINS DISCOVER A DINING DINING DESTINATION DESTINATION ( SAVE PIE)) ( SAVE ROOM ROOM FOR FOR PIE
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Celebrating History, Community, Creativity and Pie Learn more at GingerandBaker.com | 970-223-PIES (7437) | 359 Linden Street, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524 | Free parking directly across the street RMPARENT 27 Celebrating History, Community, Creativity and Pie
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Learn more at GingerandBaker.com | 970-223-PIES (7437) | 359 Linden Street, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524 | Free parking directly across the street
Community Calendar
THERESA BAER
September events FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 5 One Sweet Summer Event Series Celebrate fun activities throughout each week with live music, kids’ days, fitness classes, ice cream festival, and more! Downtown LV. downtownloveland.org/ onesweetsummer TUESDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 15 FoCo Food Truck Rally Food trucks and free live music. City Park, FC. focofoodtruckrally.com SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Fiesta in the Plaza: Arte y Tradición Family‑friendly fiesta with hands‑on demonstrations, activities, games, art. Centennial Village Museum, GR. cityofgreeley.trumba.com SEPTEMBER 5 THROUGH 7 Windsor Harvest Festival Parade, vendors, hot air balloons, pie eating contest, live music, fireworks and more. windsorharvestfest.com SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Windsor Cruise In Car Show Showcase of originals, street rods, customs and unique garage creations. Windsor HS, WS. recreationliveshere.com/Calendar
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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Pastels on 5th Street Chalk art festival, live music, kids area and marketplace. Fifth Street adjacent to Loveland Museum, LV. pastelson5th.org Rist Canyon Volunteer Fire Department Mountain Festival Annual fundraiser offers live music, silent auction, plant/bake/book sales, kids activities, demos, food trucks, more. Across from Rist Canyon Fire Station 1, Bellvue. festival.rcvfd.org SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Honey Festival at Loveland Farmers Market Enjoy honey samples, observation beehive, beeswax & bee-themed products, and busy bee kid’s zone. Fairgrounds Park, LV. LovGov.org/HoneyFestival SEPTEMBER 25 AND 26 Greeley Oktobrewfest Local brews, live bands, delicious food, and all-ages activities. Lincoln Park, Downtown GR. downtowngreeley.com/specialevents/greeley-oktobrewfest
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Timnath Fall Festival Live music, artisans, local beer, food trucks, activities/crafts. Timnath Community Park , Timnath. timnath.org/fall-festival SEPTEMBER 26 AND 27 Taste of Fort Collins Features Modest Mouse and Lil Jon. Kids 12 and under free. Washington Park, FC. tasteoffortcollins.com
ENTERTAINMENT
THURSDAYS, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 10 Bohemian Nights: Thursday Night Live Concert Series Live music from emerging and established artists. Old Town Square, FC. bohemianlivemusic.org/ outdoor-events/thursday-night-live THROUGH SEPTEMBER 12 Manga Dreams Exhibit Studio portraits of Asian youth in manga-inspired costumes. Loveland Museum, LV. thelovelandmuseum. org/manga-dreams FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 FoCo POP (Parks & Outdoor Performances) Groove with multiple bands during First Friday on Linden Street, FC. fortcollins.gov/Event-Folder/ 2026-Events/2026-Q2/Arts-Culture/ FoCo-POP SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Haven and the Fallen Giants Book Signing Meet the two artists behind this incredible graphic novel. Old Firehouse Books, FC. oldfirehousebooks.com SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Black Squirrel Half Challenging yet accessible trail run plus a kids 1-mile race. Lory State Park, Bellvue. gnarrunners.com/ black-squirrel-half SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Honeybee Hustle Challenge yourselves to a .80-mile loop open for 1.5 hours with awards for various categories. Fairgrounds Park, LV. sweetheartcityracing.com/ events/honey-bee-hustle
telescopes from Northern Colorado Astronomical Society. Fossil Creek Natural Area, FC. engage.fcgov.com/Calendar SEPTEMBER 18 AND 19 Hoedown Hill Music Festival Five bands over two nights. Hoedown Hill, WS. hoedownhill.com SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Transatlantic Guitar Trio Mix of jazz, ballads, gypsy swing standards, pop influences, and original compositions. Rialto Theater Center, LV. rialtotheatercenter.org SEPTEMBER 19 AND 30 Free Admission Days at Loveland Museum Loveland Museum, LV. thelovelandmuseum.org/mangadreams SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Face Vocal Band Celebrating 25 years of thrilling all-age audiences with their signature brand of all-vocal rock. Rialto Theater Center, LV. rialtotheatercenter.org SEPTEMBER 27, OCTOBER 18 NoCo Cars & Coffee Car enthusiasts of all makes/models welcome. Free admission and coffee. The Promenade Shops at Centerra, LV. thepromenadeshops atcenterra.com/events
ACTIVE-ITIES
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Youth Climate Action Day A next-generation climate awareness event for youths aged 15–25. Avodadro’s Number, FC. sustainablelivingassociation.org/ youth-climate-action FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 Severance Glow 5K Run or Walk First glow run on lighted course with DJ at start/finish. Severance Community Park. runsignup. com/Race/CO/Severance/ SeveranceDays5k SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Brooms and Boards Spellbinding morning of paddleboarding. Windsor Lake. Boardwalk Community Park, Windosr. recreationliveshere.com/Calendar SEPTEMBER 25 THROUGH 27 Red Feather Trail Jamboree with Kids 1-mile Run Half-marathon, 50K, 50-mile, and kids 1-mile (Sunday). Red Feather Lakes. gnarrunners.com/red-feather Northern Colorado Mountain Bike Fest with Take-a-Kid MTB Ride Demo bikes, poker ride, group rides, food/beverages, live music and more. Group rides for kids of all ages. Inlet Bay at Horsetooth Reservoir, FC. nocomtbfest.com
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Rock Garden Concert Series Features the Tony Furtado Trio and benefits local nonprofits. Kids 12 and under free. Fort Collins Nursery, FC. fortcollinsnursery.com/event/ rock-garden-concert-series SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 Skygazing Brief, family-friendly astronomy activity followed by skygazing with RMPARENT
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Time out
LEA HANSON
The beautifully awkward journey of raising independent teenagers There is a moment in every parent’s life when they realize their child is becoming exactly what they hoped they would become: capable, confident, and independent. Unfortunately, that moment often comes with a side of panic, nostalgia, and sadness in learning to let go. The transition from childhood to independence is one of the most important—and sometimes most challenging—parts of adolescence. Teenagers are learning how to make decisions, solve problems, manage responsibilities, and figure out who they are outside of their family. For parents, this shift can feel a little like being promoted from “manager” to “consultant” without receiving any formal training. For years, we parents are the ones who organize the schedules, pack the lunches, remind everyone about homework, locate the missing shoes, and somehow know where every water bottle in the house disappeared to. Then, almost overnight, teenagers start making their own choices. They want to decide what they wear, how they spend their time, who they spend time with, and sometimes even whether they need a jacket when it is 35 degrees outside. (Spoiler: They probably do.) It can be hard to step back when our instinct is to step in. We have spent years protecting their children from scraped knees, bad decisions, disappointment, and unnecessary suffering. Watching a teenager navigate challenges on their own can feel uncomfortable—even when those challenges are exactly where growth happens. The truth is that independence is not about parents becoming less important. It is about our parenting roles changing.
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Teenagers still need guidance, but they need it differently. They need parents who ask thoughtful questions instead of immediately solving problems. They need space to make mistakes while knowing there is a safe place to land. They need opportunities to practice independence while still having the support of people who know them best. Think of it like learning to ride a bike. At first, we run alongside holding tightly to the seat, offering constant reminders and reassurance. Eventually, we let go—not because we stopped caring, but because we know our child has to learn how to balance on their own. (And yes, we may still be running behind them for a few extra blocks, just in case.) This growing independence benefits teenagers in countless ways. When young people are trusted with responsibility, they develop
confidence and problem-solving skills. They learn that their choices have consequences and that they are capable of handling challenges. They begin to understand their own strengths, values, and abilities. For us parents, this season is an invitation to celebrate the person their child is becoming—even when it feels bittersweet. The goal of parenting was never to keep children dependent forever. The goal was to raise humans who can eventually navigate the world with courage, compassion, and confidence. So, if (when) our teenagers start making their own plans, solving their own problems, or occasionally acting like they have everything figured out (even when they very clearly do not), we can take a moment to appreciate the journey. They are not moving away from us—they are growing because of us.
FIVE STAR SERVICE FIVE STAR RESULTS “Jeff was a rock star agent! He not only worked exceptionally hard on selling our house, but he also became a dear friend in the process. He was honest and open and offered great advice. He went above and beyond helping us. A “must have” person when selling, or buying a home in the Ft. Collins area.” - Tim H “Both myself and my wife are in our eighties. We have bought and sold 7 homes. Never in all of those sales have we had a real-estate agent as helpful and pleasant as Jeff has been. He went above and beyond what was necessary and helped us resolve problems involving our age and abilities to get things done. For this and his professionalism we are truly grateful.” - Judy & Terry H “Jeff is the BEST!! He is proactive in a not-so-great market. Jeff was very innovative with his marketing strategies. He is very smart. He helped me get my home on the market by literally moving furniture, boxes, etc. He gives great detailed feedback. He offers to help all the way through the process. He is also one of the kindest human beings. I would recommend Jeff to anyone for the greatest experience of selling your house because he cares!! If there are fivestar ratings, Jeff is an 8. He is the BEST!!” - Kathleen G
WHY CLIENTS CHOOSE JEFF
• Comprehensive Expertise: I provide solutions tailored to your unique stage of life. • Specialized Senior Support: As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®), I understand the unique needs of seniors and their families. • Investment Strategies: I can guide you through using a self-directed IRA to invest in real estate, helping to diversify your retirement portfolio beyond the stock market. • Business Insight: With an MBA in Marketing and decades of experience, I bring a strong foundation in strategy, negotiation, and market knowledge. I can help you buy, sell, or invest with confidence and peace of mind.
JEFF BITTERMAN
Broker Associate/Partner MBA, SRES®, CHS 970.420.4540 jbitterman@thegroupinc.com www.jeffbitterman.com
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