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DepartmentsPersPective . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Water, the flow of life...—Actually, no metaphor here, just a simple account

First YeArs. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8The cost of green grass—protect your toddler from toxic lawn chemicals

FAmilY Activities . . . . . . . 10Hot spots for cooling off—chill out at these outdoor pools, beaches and splash parks

HeAltHY living . . . . . . . . . 12 Slow the flow—follow these restrictions and tips to conserve water

communitY news . . . . . . 14Rolling to the top—Fort Collins earns Platinum-

level as a Bicycle Friendly Community

nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Label me this—a breakdown of some common ingredients found in your food

cAlendAr . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Events and activities for parents, kids and families

time out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Pool reflections—swim season evokes memories of those crazy days of youth

Features

School District News

JUN

E 2

01

3

thompson school district. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Teachers Honored at 2012-2013 Crystal Apple Awards, Thompson Valley student captures $10,000 scholarship

Poudre school district. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Zach volunteer loves students’ enthusiasm for math, RMHS students teach Bauder students during heart dissection activity, PSD spring 2013 teacher survey results are positive

greeley-evans district 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Engage Online Academy receives multi-district designation from state, nine District 6 students named Daniels Scholars, District 6, GEA mem-bership approve 2013-14 teacher contract

18 Breast milkBreastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby. Benefits include reductions in infections, diseases, obesity and better brain development. Moms benefit by lessening their chance of postpartum bleeding, have stronger bones and reduce their risk of ovarian and pre-menopausal breast cancer. More recently, a decreased risk for cardiovascular disease and post-partum depression.

20 Books and so much more

School’s out but northern Colorado libraries want to keep kids reading. Check out the great events, storytimes, activities and fun that can be had at your library this summer. Don’t forget to sign up for prizes!

aBout the coVer: Dylan, age 5. This summer Dylan wants to have water gun fights with his friends. He also wants to ride his bike and take swimming & tennis lessons. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

6 | RMPARENT

I’m going to start with a little plug for our Family Directory 2013-14. It’s hot off the press and you can pick one up at

most places where you pick up RM Parent. It’s chock full of resources for your family. I’m also going to say how excited we are to add back a glossy cover. It should protect your issue a little better and it makes those cute cover kids really stand out.

Now on to one of the themes of this issue.Oh, water. It slakes our thirst (yes, I said

slake), grows our strawberries, and cools us off. It’s the difference between Earth and Mars and I can tell you where I’d rather live, though aren’t you curious about where all the water went on Mars?

So let’s start with the splish-splash fun. We have lots of choices when it comes to a water break. Katie Harris gives a good run down in her Family Activities story (page 10) about area pools, beaches and water parks. Find the one nearest you or take this as a challenge list for the summer and go explore. And be sure to read about Theresa Myers’ trip to the pool with her kids that reminded her of those crazy pool days of youth.

And now the reality check on water...we have plenty for what we need, but we ought not waste it. I’m not a fan of the big green lawn. I’ll just say it right out. I had one once in cul-de-sac and it was a PITA (pain in the butt) to maintain, and for what? I could see it if we lived in Mis-souri (which we did once upon a time) and the grass just grows no matter how much you try to discourage it, but out here in 17-inches-of-rain-a-year land, it just seems wasteful. Now if you happen to have a big green lawn, you can keep it healthy and use a lot less water. See Lea Hanson’s tips in Healthy Living (page 12), and while you’re there, check out the watering restrictions for northern Colorado municipalities.

And one last note about lawns (I hope I’m not overdoing this): Check out Lynn Utzman-Nichols’ First Years story (page 8) about pro-tecting your toddler from toxic lawns. She points out how much more at risk little people are from chemical exposure and she makes suggestions for keeping your lawn and your children healthy.

I’ll quickly mention the story by Katie Harris (page 18) about one of our greatest community resources: our public libraries. They offer so much more than just reading material. Check out the story, then check out your local library.

And a final note: Fort Collins received a Platinum-Level desig-nation as a Bicycle-Friendly community. It ’s been 5 years or so since this designation has been awarded and only 3 other communities in the country share this level of commitment. Check out Kim Sharpe’s description in Community News on page 14. Also in Community News, check out all the cool things gardeners are doing to help feed the hungry across our communities in northern Colorado (I guess that was the final final note.)

Thanks for reading,Scott Titterington, Publisher

perspectiveWater, the flow of life...Actually, no metaphor here, just a simple account June 2013 • Volume 18, Issue 1

PUBLISHERScott Titterington, (970)221-9210

scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

EDITORKristin Titterington, (970)221-9210

kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com

CALEnDAR EDITORAly Titterington

calendar@rockymountainpub.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOREmily Zaynard

emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com

ADVERTISInG SALES DIRECTORGreg Hoffman, (970)689-6832greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com

DISTRIBUTIOnWendee Brungardt, Sharon Klahn, Cherese Macy,

Rob’s Bike Courier Service

COVER PHOTOCheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com

COnTRIBUTInG WRITERSLea Hanson, Katie Harris, Richard Keller,

Theresa Myers, Kim Sharpe, Lynn Utzman-nichols

ROCKY MOUnTAIn PUBLISHInG825 Laporte Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80521

Voice 221-9210Fax 221-8556

editor@rockymountainpub.comwww.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. ©2013 Rocky

Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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first years

After the late snows and reluctant sprouting of leaves, summer is finally here. If you’ve got little

ones, fling open your back door and let all that freshness come in. Revel in the new green of summer. But before you go rolling down a grassy hill at home or at your local park, consider just what you and your little one might be frolicking in. Sure, it’s lush and pure green, but what makes it that way? Most likely a toxic cocktail of lawn chemicals.

Not to put a damper on your fun, but there are some things you should know about lawn chemicals before you indulge.

Did you know that we Americans use nearly 100 million pounds of pesti-cides at home on our lawns and gardens every year? And it’s not just fertilizers that stick to your toddler’s skin or are inhaled while he plays in that field of green—it’s weed and insect killers, too. These pesticides are toxic broad- spectrum biocides—designed to kill living things that might wander in our yards or grow where they are not wanted. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) tested nearly 10,000 people for pesticides in their bloodstreams. One-hundred percent tested positive. The average person possessed 13 of the 23 tested chemicals.

That might be enough to keep you off the grass, but there’s more. Your toddler’s body is at a much higher risk due to her small size and the fact that her internal organs are still developing. Crawling on grass, chemicals enter through her skin or as vapors that she breathes in. Several of the common lawn chemicals are linked to cancer and are known to damage the liver and kidneys as well as reproductive organs.

You may believe that the EPA wouldn’t let any harmful chemicals come in contact with our kids. Of course they consider the fact that young children

and pets come face-to-face with grass, right? Wrong. Most pesticides used to-day lack health and safety tests, but are sold and used anyway.

Heavy pesticide exposure can make us sick. There’s a laundry list of symptoms from burning skin, throat and ears to tin-gling and numbness, dizziness and fa-tigue. Pesticide poisoning is even thought to be linked to learning disabilities.

Now that you never want to put your baby down again, know that you do have alternatives to lawn chemicals, at least at home.

If you want to feed your grass with-out applying a fertilizer, try compost. Spread a thin layer on your grass. If it’s time to buy a new lawnmower, consider a mulching mower that cuts your lawn clippings into fine pieces that then fall back into the grass and feed the soil.

If you’ve got weeds, you can al-ways deal with them the old fashioned way—pulling them before they seed out. After a rain, send your older kids out to pull weeds, roots and all, and pay them a buck for every plastic bag they fill. Heck,

invite neighbor kids and make it a race. If you are not into pulling weeds,

try corn gluten. It comes in a fine powder and when spread on your lawn suppresses common weeds such as dan-delions and crabgrass. The trick is apply-ing it at the right time, when the weed sprouts are still young. Wet it down af-terwards, and reapply in six weeks. Oth-er natural weed killers include vinegar,

salt and boiling water but aim well—you don’t want to damage nearby grass. You are likely to find other natural weed killers at your favorite garden store. Another way to prevent weeds is simply keeping your lawn healthy. If there are no bare patches, weeds can’t grab hold. Add grass seed to thinning or bare areas.

Maybe you will disregard this ar-ticle as too much worry and hype. It’s true, we can’t worry about everything or we’d never sleep. Do this one thing, at least: honor the little yellow flags the parks department puts in place after spraying chemicals on its fields and keep your little crawler off the grass until they’re removed.

the cost of green grassProtect your toddler from toxic lawn chemicals

L y N N U t z m a N N i c h o L S

RMPARENT | 9

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family activitieshot spots for cooling offChill out at these outdoor pools, beaches and splash parks

K a t i E h a r r i S

School’s out and pool season has arrived in Colorado! Check out the list below for hours, prices and locations of all

our local swimming hot spots!

outdoor poolsBerthoud Pool 200 7th St., Berthoud Open swim hours: M-F, 1:10-4:30pm; Sa/Su, noon-5pm. Family swim: M-F, 4:30-7pm. Cost: 3 and under, free; Ages 4-17 and 55 and up, $2.50; Adults, $3. Call 970-532-1600 or visit www.berthoud.org/parks_rec/pool.php for details.

Centennial Pool 2315 Reservoir Rd, Greeley Open swim hours: Daily, 1-5pm. No open swim July 5-7. Cost: 5 and under (accompanied by a paying adult), $1.50; Ages 6-17, $4; Adults, $4.50. Call 970-330-2837 or http://greeleygov.com/Recreation/Aquatics.aspx for details.

Chimney Park Pool 421 Chimney Park Dr, Windsor Open swim hours: June 1-2: 1-6pm. June 3-Aug. 16: M-Th, 1-5pm; F-Su, 1-6pm. August 17-30: Saturdays only, 1-6pm. No open swim July 20. Cost: 5 and under, $2.25; Ages 6-17 and 50 and up, $3.25; Adults, $3.50. Call 970-674-0826 or visit www.windsorgov.com/index.aspx?NID=276 for details.

City Park Pool 1599 City Park Dr, Fort Collins Open swim hours: M-F, 10am-8pm; Sa/Sun, 10am-5:30pm Cost: Under 2, free; Ages 2-17 and ages 60 and up, $6; Adults, $7. Call 970-221-6202 or visit www.fcgov.com/recreation/cityparkpool.php for more information.

Discovery Bay 715 E. 24th St, Greeley Open swim hours: Daily, 1-5pm. Cost: 5 and under (accompanied by a paying

adult), $1.50; Ages 6-17 and seniors, $4; Adults, $4.50. Call 970-353-3538 or visit greeleygov.com/Recreation/Aquatics.aspx for details.

Winona Pool 1615 4th St. SE, Loveland Open swim hours: M/W, noon-7pm; All other days, noon-5pm. Family swim hours: Su, 10am-noon. Cost: Under 2, free; Ages 2-5, $2; Ages 6-17, $3; Adults, $4; Ages 62 and up, $3.25. Call 970-962-2435 or visit www.ci.loveland.co.us/index.aspx?page=231 for details.

lakes and swim beachesBoyd Lake 3720 N CR 11-C, Loveland Currently closed for 2013 season due to low water levels. Check website for possible opening late summer. Call 970-663-2662 or visit www.parks.state.co.us/Parks/BoydLake/Pages/BoydLakeHome.aspx for information.

Carter Lake CR 8E, Loveland Open swim hours: Open daylight hours Cost: $7/ daily vehicle permit or $75/ annual vehicle permit for park entrance. Call 970-679-4570 or visit www.co.larimer.co.us/parks/carter.cfm for information.

Horsetooth Reservoir CR 38E, Fort Collins Open swim hours: Open daylight hours Cost: $7/ daily vehicle permit or $75 annual vehicle permit for park entrance. Call 970-679-4570 or visit www.co.larimer.co.us/parks/horsetooth.cfm for more information.

Lake Loveland 2626 N Taft Ave, Loveland Open swim hours: Daily, 10am-5pm, weather and staff permitting. Cost: Free, Call 970-962-2727 or visit www.ci.loveland.co.us/index.aspx?page=231 for information and water levels.

Windsor Lake 100 N 5th St, Windsor Open swim hours: Daylight hours, Cost: Free Call 970-674-2400 or visit www.windsorgov.com/index.aspx?NID=293 for more information.

splash and spray parks Fairgrounds Park 700 S Railroad Ave, Loveland Hours: 9am-7pm, Cost: Free Call 970-962-2000 or visit www.ci.loveland.co.us/index.aspx?page=619 for details.

Fossil Creek Hours: 9am-7pm, Cost: Free, Call 970-221-6660 or visit www.fcgov.com/parks/water.php for more information.

Island Grove Splash Park 1300 A St, Greeley Hours: 1-3pm, Cost: Free, Call 970-353-4253 or visit greeleygov.com/Recreation/Aquatics.aspx for more information.

Loveland Sports Park 950 N Boyd Lake Ave, Loveland Hours: 9am-7pm, Cost: Free Call 970-962-2000 or visit www.ci.loveland.co.us/index.aspx?page=621 for details.

Oak Street Plaza, Old Town Fort Collins Hours: 10am-10pm, Cost: Free Call 970-221-6660 or visit www.fcgov.com/parks/water.php for more information.

Promenade Shops at Centerra, Loveland Hours: Daylight hours, Cost: Free Call 970-461-1285 or visit thepromenade shopsatcenterra.com for more information.

Spring Canyon Community Park 2626 W Horsetooth Rd, Fort Collins Hours: 9am-7pm, Cost: Free Call 970-221-6660 or visit www.fcgov.com/parks/water.php for more information.

Sunrise Splash Park 325 12th St, Greeley Hours: 1-3pm, Cost: Free Call 970-356-2594 or visit greeleygov.com/Recreation/Aquatics.aspx for details.

RMPARENT | 11

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healthy living

Water is among the most abun-dant resources on the planet, but in northern Colorado, it

feels increasingly sparse. But, droughts or not, practicing the conservation of valu-able environmental resources is important in our homes. Not only do we contribute to the preservation of much-needed re-sources, we teach our children to respect and care for the world around us.

The bulk of our area’s water supply comes from the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, which includes Horsetooth Res-ervoir, the Cache la Poudre River basin, and portions of the Michigan River basin that flows to the Poudre River via the Michigan Ditch and Joe Wright Reser-voir system. Due to fire in our watershed, low snowpack, and drought conditions, this year is especially important to make efforts to limit water use.

Water restrictions are in effect for this summer. Check your area for more details:

• Fort Collins www.fcgov.com/utilities/what-we-do/water/water-supply-demand/water-restrictions/

• Greeley www.greeleygov.com

• Loveland http://www.ci.loveland.co.us/

Restrictions include day and time limits on lawn watering and restrictions on car washing and cleaning of impervious surfaces such as driveways and sidewalks.

Although it’s very important to conserve water both indoors and out, water restrictions don’t impact water use inside of our homes. Nonetheless, it’s important to make efforts both inside and out. In addition to saving water, we can also save dollars on our utilities bills.

wAys TO sAvE wATER: iNsidECheck for leaks – a small drip from a worn faucet can waste gallons of water per day.

This includes your toilet: put a little food coloring in the tank. If, without flushing, the color shows up in the bowl, you’ve got a leak or a loose seal. This will cause your toilet to run at times in additional to when it’s flushed, thus wasting water.

Put a plastic bottle or float booster in the toilet tank – put a few inches of sand or pebbles in a plastic bottle for weight. Put them in the tank away from operat-ing mechanisms. This simply allows your tank to hold less water, thus saving water on each flush. You only need about three gallons of water in the tank to ensure proper and efficient flushing.

Consider your diet. The simple act of eating uses water. For example, one serv-ing of poultry can use up to 90 gallons of water to produce including the cost of raising the animal to transporting it to your home. Buying locally grown and raised food can drastically reduce this impact. Worse, a fast food burger can use as much water as 30 showers.

Save the water that runs from the spout when you’re running it to heat up. Run it into a pitcher for watering plants instead of letting it run down the drain.

Although there are hundreds of ways to save water inside the home,

nearly 60 percent of a person’s water us-age can go toward lawn and garden care.

wAys TO sAvE wATER: OUTsidEPlant drought-resistance shrubs and plants. Native plants use less water and

are more resistant to disease. Consider the principles of xeriscaping (www.bath-landscapedesign.com/#/xeriscaping/ 4532349714). This alone can lower your outdoor water use 30-50 percent.

Deep soak your lawn–water long enough for the moisture to soak down to the roots. Luckily, the city’s water restric-tions actually force you to do this. Put an empty tuna can on the lawn and when it’s full, you’ve watered the right amount.

Use a broom, not a hose, to clean the driveway and/or sidewalks. In fact, don’t run a hose at all. Be sure you own a sprayer adapter so when you do need to use a hose, it’s not continually running. Even better, replace your spray nozzles with rotary nozzles and cut your water use by almost 30 percent.

For hundreds of additional tips, check out the City of Fort Collins’ web-site (www.fcgov.com/utilities/tips) for water and energy saving tips within cat-egories of “low cost” and “no cost.”

slow the flowFollow these restrictions and tips to conserve water

L E a h a N S o N

RMPARENT | 13

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community newsrolling to the topFort Collins earns Platinum-level as a Bicycle Friendly Community

B y K i m S h a r P E

As of May 13, 2013, northern Colorado is home to one of the nation’s four Platinum-level Bicycle Friendly Com-munities. Fort Collins earned this des-ignation from the League of American Bicyclists (the nation’s oldest bicycling advocacy group which dates back to 1880) for its intentionality to accommo-date bicycles and promote safe bicycling.

But Fort Collins is not alone in it efforts. Greeley is a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community. Loveland received an honorable mention when it applied in 2010. Regardless of designation, how-ever, bicycling is a means of transporta-tion and a way of life for more and more people in all NoCo communities.

biCyCliNg fOR kidsChildren can hone their riding skills by participating in the FoCo Kids Bike Chal-lenge. Each month through August fea-tures a different type of bicycle race. Similar to the Healthy Kids Run Series offered by University of Colorado Health’s Healthy Kids Club, the FoCo Kids Bike Challenge has merged all of the local summer kids’ bike races into one summer-long series.

Children and youth ages 2-18 years old can race in any or all of the races. Par-ticipants are divided by age and ability. All racers are required to wear a helmet and parents must sign one waiver for each race series in the Challenge. The youngest age group (4 and under) may use balance bikes and tricycles. Pre-registration and day-of registration is accepted.

These grassroots races are low-key family events followed by adult races that are open to the community. Adult racers must pay a small registration fee. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic and stick around for the all the fun.

gET OUTsidE While bicycling is a great way to get outdoors, there are so many more ways

FoCo Kids Bike Challenge RacesOval Criterium Sundays, June 6–23, Day of Registration begins at 3pm. Race starts at 4pm.CSU Oval (closed paved course)

City Streets CriteriumTuesdays, July 2–30, Day of Registration begins at 5pm. Race starts at 5:30pm.625 ninth St., Fort Collins (closed paved course)

Lory Park Mountain ChallengeTuesdays, Aug. 6–27, Day of Registration begins at 4:30pm. Race starts at 5:45pm.Dirt mountain bike trail

Please pre-register for the FoCo Kids Bike Challenge through the City of Fort Collins Recre-ation department by calling 970-221-6256 or online at fcgov.com/recreator with the activity #315982-01. For any further information about FOCO Kids Bike Challenge please call 970-224-6032. Bikes and helmets will be provided to any FoCo Kids Bike Challenge participants who need them to race.

Please pre-register for the FoCo Kids Bike Challenge through the City of Fort Collins Recre-ation department by calling 970-221-6256 or online at fcgov.com/recreator with the activity #315982-01. For any further information about FOCO Kids Bike Challenge please call 970-224-6032. Bikes and helmets will be provided to any FoCo Kids Bike Challenge participants who need them to race.

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to do so. Families can explore a variety of outdoor activities on Saturday, June 8—National Get Outdoors Day. Com-munities across the state will hold spe-cial celebrations; the northern Colorado event will be held at Spring Canyon Park in Fort Collins (3156 S. Overland Trail) from 10am to 2pm.  

Participants can experience hiking, standup paddle boarding, bird watching, slack lining, geochaching, and learn about camping and backpacking, interact with live animals and much more! The morn-ing will start with a three-mile fun run led off by North Face-Sponsored Ultra Runner Diane Van Deren. Following the run at 10:30am, Diane will speak about her experiences as an ultra runner. Fashion-minded spectators will enjoy a fashion show featuring outdoor attire. For more information, visit getoutdoorsnoco.org or call 970-679-4561. 

PlANT iT fORwARdThe Gardens on Spring Creek and Food Bank for Larimer County (FBLC) are teaming up to fight hunger from the ground up. Through the Plant It For-ward initiative, both groups are urging all home gardeners to plant extra fruits, vegetables and herbs this spring to do-nate to the hungry during the harvest season. One in 10 Larimer County residents receives food from the Food Bank’s food pantry program, with the majority of those children, seniors and single parent households.

“At this time of the year, Fort Col-lins gardeners can decide to help the most vulnerable in our community by planting extra in their gardens,” explains Michelle Provaznik, Gardens on Spring Creek director. “Each member of the community can make a difference; no donation is too small.”

Since 2010, community members through Plant It Forward have deliv-ered 10,000 pounds of fresh food to the Food Bank for Larimer County. In its third growing season, The Gardens and FBLC organizers have set a goal for 5,000 pounds of produce to be delivered from area gardeners this year, which usually spans May through October.

The Food Bank for Larimer Coun-ty, located at 1301 Blue Spruce, will

accept produce donations Monday through Friday, 8am–4pm. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Avenue, will accept donations on Saturdays, 9am –4pm and on Sundays, noon–5pm.

For more information regarding Plant It Forward, visit www.foodbank larimer.org or call 970-567-1643.

Loveland’s Plant A Row For the Hungry (PAR) program has encouraged Loveland community members to grow extra vegetables in their gardens to help feed the hungry since 2005. Loveland Youth Gardeners initiated the program. To date, the large community network that makes up Loveland PAR has con-tributed more than 80,000 pounds of produce to needy families.

People who would like to be a part of the Loveland PAR may call the Loveland Youth Gardeners office at 970-669-7182 or simply donate to area food banks mentioning their donation “is for Plant a Row!”

Donations are accepted at the House of Neighborly Service, 6th and Cleveland Streets, Mondays through Thursdays, 9am–4pm (closed noon–1pm) or Love-land branch of the Food Bank for Lar-imer County, 2600 N. Lincoln Avenue, Tuesdays through Saturdays, 9am–2pm.

Weld County’s Food Bank re-ceived funding from the State of Col-orado to establish a community gar-den. It is partnering with Alternative Homes for Youth (AHFY) to build raised beds and compost bins.

According to the Weld Food Bank, “The garden will provide new and excit-ing opportunities for fresh food, physical activity, horticulture therapy and life skills building for the residents of Alternative Homes for Youth and public groups arranged through Weld Food Bank. Research has shown that projects such as this not only provide youth with new skills, but also increase self-awareness, patience, empathy and trust…Plus, the fresh produce grown will be provided to Weld Food Bank clients!”

The food bank is seeking volun-teers to help tend the garden and do general upkeep of its surrounding area. For more information, contact Victoria at 970-356-2199 x323 or victoria@weldfoodbank.org.

fiRsT-TiME MOMs RECEivE sUPPORTA first-time pregnancy can be challeng-ing for anyone. If you are young, possibly single and earn a low wage, pregnancy can feel too overwhelming to bear. Fortunately, first-time eligible moms can receive sup-port from the Nurse Family Partnership (NFP). NFP is a nationally recognized, evidence-informed program that pairs vulnerable first-time mothers with highly trained nurses who visit women in their homes from the early stages of pregnancy through their baby’s second birthday.

Available in Larimer and Weld Counties, NFP nurses provide counseling on preventive health practices, including prenatal care, breastfeeding assistance, healthy eating, reducing tobacco, alcohol and drug use as needed. Other support in-cludes increasing self sufficiency of moth-ers and helping them develop a vision for their own success, which may include further education and job training.

“For every dollar invested, a com-munity can see a return of five dollars or more,” says Dr. Mark Wallace, executive director of the Weld County Health Department, which oversees that coun-ty’s NFP. “Take for example breastfeed-ing. A mother who breastfeeds her baby for at least six months—but 12 months or more is even better—has lower medi-cal visits due to respiratory or middle ear infections, and has lower risk for devel-oping asthma, diabetes and obesity.”

Studies show the program also reduc-es emergency room visits related to acci-dents and poisonings, lower child abuse and neglect, reduced behavioral and intel-lectual problems in the child, while also increasing the self-efficacy of the mother.

“NFP has a proven record of im-proved prenatal health, fewer childhood injuries, fewer subsequent pregnancies and increased intervals between births so that both the mother and the child are healthy,” adds Brenda Graves, Larimer County’s NFP supervisor. “We also im-prove school readiness. And in Larimer County, we have a 40-percent increase in fathers being enrolled in our program, which is a very positive outcome!”

To get more information about NFP, visit nursefamilypartnership.org. In Larimer County, call 970-498-6731. In Weld County, call 970-304-6417.

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Though you try to stay as healthy as possible by purchasing organic foods, growing your own pro-

duce, and making most of your meals and snacks by scratch, there are times when you pick up a prepackaged item out of necessity or because the kids en-joy it. While you’re pretty sure the color-ful box you grab is full of nutrition, one look at its ingredients may give you sec-ond thoughts. What’s listed may be so unfamiliar to you that you immediately consider a degree in biochemistry in the middle of the supermarket’s dairy aisle. To help you avoid thousands of dollars of student loans, here are definitions of the most common items you’ll find on those grocery labels.

EvAPORATEd CANE JUiCEFound in many organic products, evap-orated cane juice is a derivative of the sugar cane that other food sweeteners come from. The main difference is cane juice doesn’t go through the same chem-ical processing as refined sugar, allowing it to retain many of its nutrients. This includes a large dose of riboflavin, also known as B2 – a strong antioxidant that helps boost a body’s metabolism.

AsCORbiC ACidDon’t worry about the name, because ascorbic acid is also known as Vitamin C. Commonly found in citrus and trop-ical fruits, bell peppers, and cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, ascorbic acid is sometimes added to juices and other fruit-related products to provide an extra boost of Vitamin C, which isn’t a bad thing. One of the safest nutrients, Vitamin C helps boost immunity and strengthen both eyes and skin.

XANThAN gUMBesides being a food named during ABC games while on a road trip,

Xanthan gum is used to stabilize products intended to have a long shelf life. It is also used in gravies and sauces as a thickening agent. Xanthan gum has some health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and cho-lesterol rates. In addition, the gum is used as a saliva substitute for those with chronic dry mouth, also known as Sjogren’s Syndrome.

lECiThiNThough you may recall seeing this in-gredient on one product or another, your children would recognize it from the candy bars they’ve snuck past you every so often. That’s because lecithin is used as a stabilizer to avoid chocolate and cocoa butter from separating when chocolate candy is created. And while it may sound like something made in a chemical plant, lecithin naturally occurs in eggs and is created in a mix with soy-bean or sesame seed oil. Children and adults with soy allergies should avoid any product containing soy lecithin.

PECTiNFamilies who get together to make homemade jams know a good deal about

pectin. Used as an emulsifier and thick-ener, the agent is a primary ingredient in store-bought preservatives. The use of pectin helps lower high cholesterol and triglycerides and prevents colon and prostate cancer.

COChiNEAlThe removal of red dye used in processed food products has become a large point of contention in recent years. One of the reasons why may be the way the dye is created. One form of this product is cochineal. Also known as carmine, or car-minic acid, the dye is a byproduct of the cochineal beetle. Needless to say, try to avoid products with this coloring agent.

These are just some of the items you may find while shopping for your family. And while you may want to get some-thing easy to make after a hectic day, don’t go to the supermarket uninformed. Do research ahead of time to find out the latest banned food substances and take this article with you to determine if, for example, the box of macaroni and powdered cheese is the right way to go. While it may look and taste fine, the ingredients inside could be doing your family more harm than good.

nutritionlabel me thisA breakdown of some common ingredients found in your food

r i c h a r D K E L L E r

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Low Vision Optometrist, Dr. Robert Stamm, Utilizing New

Lens Technology to Help Nebras-ka and Colorado Residents with Macular Degeneration (ARMD)

New Lens TechnologyNew lens technology helps correct a basic problem expe-rienced by those with macular degeneration.

Recently developed new E-Scoop lenses from Holland now enable doctors to help pa-tients with one of the chief com-plaints associated with macular degeneration—cloudy vision.

Dr. Stamm, a low vision optometrist servicing Nebraska and the Greater Denver area, and is a member of the Interna-tional Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS), offers new hope and vision.

“Macular degeneration not only causes central blind spots but reduces clarity,” says Dr. Stamm. “Most of my patients ask me for clearer vision.”

Glasses that use the new tech-nology bridge the gap between standard eyeglasses and spec-tacle head-borne telescopes. Whether your difficulty is night driving, bright light, sunlight

or simply seeing clearly into the distance, the E-Scoop lens placed over a standard eyeglass prescription can help.

By combining six different optical properties into a two-lens system, vision can often be enhanced. “We start with the patient’s prescription and then add prism to move the image to a healthy seeing part of the macu-la,” said Dr. Stamm.

The lens has five distinct fea-tures that make vision clearer and sharper, with reduced glare:

• The prism moves the image away from the damaged macular area.

• The low vision prescription ensures that patients’ needs are met.

• The yellow tint improves contrast. • The thickness of the lens, combined

with the special “base” curve, makes objects appear slightly larger.

• The anti-reflection coating allows more light through the lens.

E-Scoop lenses provide some magnification by using a combina-tion of special lens curvature and thickness. The lenses also incor-porate a custom yellow filter and anti-reflective coatings. Dr. Stamm reports, “This is an example of two lenses being better than one.”

Macular DegenerationMacular Degeneration is the leading cause of legal blindness and reading impairment in the country. Individuals with Macular Degeneration have difficulty seeing well enough to do activities that require fine detail vision like reading, driving, recognizing faces, and watching television.

E-Scoop lenses can help vision by improving clarity for some people. “These lenses cannot make vision perfect, but they do make things better,” said Dr. Stamm. “They also assist with night driv-ing and glare reduction.”

About Dr. StammDr. Robert Stamm received his

bachelor›s degree in biology from Nebraska Wesleyan University and his doctor of Optometry degree from Illinois College of Optometry where he specialized in retinal disease, contact lens fittings, and low vision.

Contact Dr. Robert Stamm today for a free telephone consul-tation to see if you are a candidate for low vision care.

(307) 345-5800 or Toll Free (877) 393-0025

www.LECVisionSource.com www.IALVS.com

Life After Vision Loss: Help for People with Macular Degeneration

P A I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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By Lynn Utzman Nichols

Breast milkThe perfect food for your baby

Maybe you’ve heard how breast milk is the perfect food for babies, that it makes babies

smarter, and helps new moms shed weight easily. It’s all true, but there’s a recent finding that is even more compel-ling that will make you want to breast-feed: permission to eat chocolate!

“Chocolate stimulates the release of oxytocin. Oxytocin helps your milk let-down and also stimulates your uterus to contract and shrink back to its pre- pregnancy size. So, feel free to indulge in a little chocolate while breastfeeding ,” says Sara Rathmell, RN, BSN, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) with UCHealth who helps lead a breastfeeding support group at Medical Center of the Rockies (MCR) and has been known to hand out chocolate kisses to new moms.

All lightheartedness aside, breast milk really is the perfect food for your baby. Besides, it makes you and your baby happy. “It’s so reassuring to know that no matter what, even in the middle of a disaster, you can feed your baby. It’s always healthy, always available, always at the right temperature, and always soothing and comforting to your baby!” exclaims Rebecca Boyd, RN, an IBCLC with MCR for UCHealth.

The American Academy of Pediat-rics (AAP) recommends six months of exclusive breastfeeding and up to a year with supplemental foods, and beyond per mother and child preference. That old idea that babies need more than breast milk at four months can be thrown out for good. It’s simply not true—and don’t let your mom or grandma convince you otherwise.

hEAlTh bENEfiTs Of bREAsTfEEdiNgA lot of women in the U.S. start breast-feeding but stop after a few weeks or months. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about 77 percent of brand new mothers breastfeed. At six months, that number drops to 47.2 per-cent. Here’s why you should stick with it.

According to the AAP, breastfeed-ing significantly decreases the risk of respiratory infections and ear infections in infants, as well as possibly reducing a number of chronic illnesses, such as Crohn’s disease, insulin-dependent dia-betes, allergies and digestive diseases. It also helps prevent childhood obesity lat-er in life and gives your baby a jumpstart at school—studies show breastfed babies have an IQ that’s six points higher than their formula-fed counterparts.

But the benefits don’t stop with baby. The AAP also says that women who breastfeed lessen their chance of postpartum bleeding, have stronger bones and reduce their risk of ovarian and pre-menopausal breast cancer. More re-cently, a decreased risk for cardiovascular disease and post-partum depression were added to the list of benefits for moms.

“Women who breastfeed also enjoy the perk of getting their body back in shape more quickly. Since breastfeeding demands up to 500 more calories a day, women can experience a healthy, gradual weight loss of about 1.3 to 1.6 pounds per month in the first 4-6 months,” Rathmell says.

Formula companies continually attempt to mimic breast milk, but some elements just can’t be duplicated, such as immune factors. Breast milk contains a protective element that helps the body

produce healthy bacteria in the intes-tinal tract, which in turn, fights patho-gens, such as E. Coli. Immune factors can form a shield around the intestines that ward off foreign proteins that cause allergies. That means fewer allergies in breastfed babies throughout life. This is particularly important for preemies, whose guts are more vulnerable.

“It’s amazing how the composition of breast milk changes as your child matures. If your baby is a preemie, your breast milk is much more concentrated and higher in protein and protective elements,” Boyd says.

whEN bREAsTfEEdiNg isN’T AN OPTiONOf course, there are cases where moms can’t breastfeed due to medical or physi-cal reasons. If this is you, don’t fret. “For-mula at that point is not the end of the world. Your child will grow and thrive,” Rathmell says.

However, if you really want your baby to benefit from breast milk, consider purchasing it from the state milk bank. “The milk is flash-pasteurized and is safer for an infant’s gut than formula. Yes, it’s expensive, but it is not more than some alternative formulas,” she adds.

If you deliver at UCHealth (MCR or PVH) and can’t breastfeed, the hospi-tals offer free donor breast milk during your stay and can provide you informa-tion on where to purchase donor milk for when you go home.

Whether you choose to try breast-feeding for the benefits or simply for the chocolate, keep at it! You’ll be glad you did—and your baby will, too.

UCHealth sponsored this article.

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It hurts. It’s hard. You can’t produce enough milk. It leaves dad out. If you find yourself be-lieving any of these preconceived ideas about breastfeeding, read on. You just may be sur-prised by the truth.

I’m not producing enough milk“The number one concern of new moms is that they don’t have enough milk. Yet most of the time, they do,” says Boyd. new moms are surprised by how often their new baby wants to feed—sometimes on the hour—and assume their infant is desperately trying to get enough milk—which is not the case.

“new moms have heard stories of moms not having enough milk. But when you really look into it you often find that the baby was using a pacifier early on or supplementing with formula which can reduce her milk supply.” says Rathmell.

To help bring on let-down in the early days, infants often cluster feed on the second night.

Cluster feeding means your baby nurses more frequently, sometimes every hour. It’s perfectly normal. Soon enough feedings will stretch to 8-12 times in 24 hours. Cluster feeding also occurs during baby’s growth spurts, which usually are at 2 to 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and again at 6 months.

Keep in mind that let down doesn’t happen immediately. It takes a few days. “It’s reassur-ing to know that your baby doesn’t need a large volume of milk those first few days. On the first day, her stomach can only hold one teaspoon. You produce 5-6 milliliters of co-lostrum per feeding, so that’s enough. On the second day she just needs a tablespoon per feeding, which you provide. Typically, it takes about 3 to 4 days for your milk to come in; however, milk production can be delayed with risk factors,” Boyd says.

You can tell when your newborn is getting enough milk when your breasts soften after feedings, your baby has six wet diapers and four yellow seedy stools every 24 hours after the fifth day, and he is gaining weight at early check-ups.

Breastfeeding in public is awkward“In the state of Colorado, a mother may breast-feed anywhere she has the right to be,” says Rathmell. To get comfortable, try practicing at home. Wearing a nursing cover is more con-spicuous than simply wearing a bulky shirt and lifting it up. It may seem uncomfortable the first

time, but you’ll get used to it quickly. “If you are pumping and return to work, your employer is legally bound to offer you a private place to pump, that’s not a bathroom,” adds Rathmell.

It hurts to breastfeedWhen an infant is latched correctly, breast-feeding should not be painful. If breastfeeding is painful, it can often be corrected by simply adjusting the latch. Rathmell says, “There is this notion that breastfeeding is supposed to hurt at first, but that’s simply not true.” It’s not like walking barefoot in the spring and having to toughen up your feet. nipples should al-ways stay soft and supple.

“When done correctly, breastfeeding feels like a pull and a tug, not painful,” says Boyd. She suggests air drying and using your breast milk to heal your nipples as it has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. “Lanolin may be used as a second choice for nipple care, and wash your hands whenever you touch your breasts,” she adds. Also, if your nipples are cracked and bleeding, don’t panic. After proper positioning, they will begin to heal while continuing to breast-feed your baby with a correct latch.

Clogged milk ducts are another challenge that can occur, but not too often. If you feel a warm, tender red area or lump in your breast, you may have a clogged milk duct. To treat it, nurse more often, apply warm moist heat and gently massage your breast toward the nipple just before and during feedings. Finally, drink extra water and wear a loose bra.

Some women also experience engorge-ment, where early on they feel great pressure but can’t release much milk. This can be alarming for women, but it’s temporary and is relieved by cluster feeding and by reducing swelling. “The best advice for engorgement is feed your baby, feed your baby. If little milk is flowing, apply a warm washcloth to your nipples. If you are unable to express your milk, use a cold compress wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling for 10 to 15 minutes pre- and post-feeding. When it starts flowing, your baby will continue to help relieve engorgement through frequent feedings,” says Boyd.

It’s messyLeaking may temporarily be a problem in the first three months, when milk supply is espe-cially high. Usually, it occurs when you hear your baby (or even someone else’s baby!) cry.

Stop leaking by applying firm pressure to the nipple. If desired, wear breast pads but re-member to change frequently.

If I get pregnant again, I have to stopSo you’ve got a 1-year-old and just found out a new baby is on the way. Your first inclination might be to stop breastfeeding. But you don’t have to. “As long as there is no medical implication for pregnancy safety, you can continue to nurse your child,” says Boyd. Your supply might go down, but keep at it. When the baby comes, nurse him first and then your older child. “Years ago, a mom from Africa told me she was nursing her 5-year-old, her 2-year-old and her newborn. It’s absolutely possible,” she adds.

If I take medication, I can’t breastfeednot true. Check with your doctor. There are a number of medications that are safe to use while breastfeeding. Breastfeeding support need help with breastfeeding or simply want to hang out with other breastfeeding moms?Attend a free breastfeeding support group or set a Wee Steps consultation:

Breastfeeding Support Group at MCR and PVHMedical Center of the Rockies in Loveland and Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins offer a no-cost, drop-in support group for breast-feeding moms at any stage. Certified lactation consultants facilitate the group, answer ques-tions and weigh babies. MCR Group meets every Tuesday from 10am to noon and the first and third Monday from 5pm to 7pm (call to confirm if coming on Monday). Meeting is held in an MCR classroom; check with concierge for exact location. PVH Group meets Wednes-days at 1pm. Call MCR at 970-624-5100 or PVH at 970-495-8283 for more information.

Wee Steps/Lactation Support Services in N. ColoradoThis no-cost service offered by UCHealth certified lactation consultants for moms who want help with breastfeeding or who have questions. Any mom, regardless of location or income, is invited to schedule a one-on-one appointment, free of charge. Open to all moms in area, whether or not they delivered at PVH or MCR. Call MCR at 970-624-5100 or PVH at 970-495-8283 for more information.

By Lynn Utzman Nichols

Top breastfeeding concerns of new moms

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22 | RMPARENT

School’s out for the summer and, if you’re like many parents, you may already be wondering what you’re

going to do with a rambunctious kid 24/7 for the next couple of months. Whether you’re in need of healthy dis-traction for a restless teen, brain food for your elementary-school-ager, or a fun, parent-child activity to prepare your little one for school years ahead, your local library has a summer pro-gram for you.

bERThOUd COMMUNiTy libRARywww.berthoud.colibraries.org, 970-532-2757 236 Welch Ave, Berthoud• Summer Reading: New this year, kids

have the opportunity to complete a Bingo card to win prizes and in-centives. Bingo squares to complete include attending a library program, writing a review on a library DVD and summer reading. Summer reading cat-egories include Family Garden (early literacy), Dig into Reading (elementa-ry), and Beneath the Surface (teens).

• Performances at Berthoud Community Center: Performances taking place this summer are designed for children in grades 1 through 5, with all ages welcome to attend. They take place on Wednesdays at 2pm.

• Story Times: Busy B’s storytime (babies and toddlers): Tuesdays at 10:30am Sweet P’s storytime (preschoolers):

Wednesdays at 10:30am Family storytime: Fridays at 10:30am

ClEARviEw libRARy disTRiCTwww.Clearviewlibrary.org, 970-686-5603720 3rd St, Windsor• Summer Reading: Keep kids reading

this summer with summer reading goals and prizes. Summer reading pro-gram age groups are as follow: Dig into reading (ages 0-5): Complete a total of three books and/or three adventures to win a bucket and shovel; complete six books and/or adventures to win a free book! Dig into reading (ages 5-13): Read three books to earn a Dig and Discov-er Archaeology Kit; read six books to earn a free book! Beneath the surface (teens): Read three books to earn a UV Light Pen; read six books to earn a free book! For every six books read, earn an entry into the grand prize drawing! Registration for summer reading will take place June 3-August 3, Mon-day-Saturday, 10am-noon and Mon-day-Thursday, 3-7pm

• Summer programs: Little ones summer program, Tuesdays at 11am. Kids craft Program, Mondays at 2pm and 2:30pm, Live entertainment pro-gram for kids, Thursdays at 2pm, Teen summer program, changes weekly.

• Book Mobile: The traveling book mobile

makes stops for storytimes throughout Windsor and Greeley. Call or visit the online calendar for daily locations.

high PlAiNs libRARy disTRiCTwww.mylibrary.us, 1-888-861-7323Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave, GreeleyFarr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave, GreeleyLincoln Park Library, 919 7th St, Ste 100, GreeleyGlenn A. Jones M.D. Memorial Library, 400 S Parish Ave, Johnstown• Summer reading: Check off boxes on a

reading log to receive prizes! Each box contains an activity relating to reading and literacy. Kids may also read for 20 minutes in lieu of checking off a box. Summer reading is broken down into the following age groups: Pre-K, K-5, and teen. Receive a free book for com-pleting all activities on the log!

• Marvelous Mondays: Elementary-agers will exercise their creativity during these fun and free weekly programs at Centennial Park Library. Programs are first-come, first-served and take place from 4-5pm.

• Beneath the Surface: Teens can search out something new to “dig into” each Tuesday at Lincoln Park Library from 2:30-4pm.

• Dig into Reading, Drop-in Crafts: Stop into Glenn A. Jones M.D. Memorial Library on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9am and 5pm for a 15-minute,

Books and so much moreLibraries feature games, entertainment, performances, prizes and on and on...

Katie Harris

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parent-assisted craft for kids. • The Big Dig: Scientists at Work:Exper-

iments in biology, physics, chemistry, engineering and geology for 6-12 year olds at the Centennial Park library! Registration is required by calling the library or visiting online.

• Storytimes:Twinkle Babies (Birth to new walkers): Tuesdays, 10:30am, Centennial Park; Thursdays, 9:30 and 10:30am, Farr Tales for Tots (New walkers to pre-school-agers): Tuesdays, 9, 10 and 11am, Farr; Thursdays, 9:30am, Cen-tennial Park Preschool Storytime (Pre-school-Pre-K): Tuesdays, 10:30am, Centennial Park Music and Movement (All ages): Tuesdays, 9:30am, Centennial Park; Fridays, 10:30 and 11:30am, Centen-nial Park Family Storytime (All ages): Sundays, 2pm, Farr; Wednesdays, 10am, Lin-coln Park; Fridays, 10:30am, Farr Reading Buddies: Wednesday, 4pm, Lincoln Park.

lOvElANd PUbliC libRARywww.cityofloveland.org/index.aspx?page=154970-962-2665, 300 N Adams• Summer Reading: Read on 20 days

June 1 through July 31 to receive a free book and prizes! Complete both months to earn a raffle entry. Reading programs available for all ages, includ-ing pre-readers.

• Tuesday Family Shows at the Foote Lagoon: These free family shows take place at 7pm at the Foote Lagoon south of the Loveland Public Library parking lot.

• Wednesday Elementary Programs: These free programs are open to children entering grades 1-5. All programs take place in the Rumschmunkel Reading Room at the Loveland Public Library.

• Storytimes: Humpty Dumpty Sto-rytime (ages 0-2 1/2): Mondays and Thursdays at 9am,10am, and 11am Toddler Storytime (ages 2-3): Tues-days at 11am; Wednesdays at 10am; Fridays at 10am and 11am Preschool Storytime (ages 4 and up): Tuesdays at 10am and 2pm; Wednes-days at 11am.

• Storyteller in the Park: Stories, songs and an activity at a different park each day. Storytimes are geared for ages 3-8, and take place weekdays at 11am. This is a free event. Call or visit Loveland Public Library for daily locations.

POUdRE libRARy disTRiCTwww.poudrelibraries.org, (970)221-6740Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree AveHarmony Library, 4616 S Shields StOld Town Library, 201 Peterson St• Summer Reading: New this year, no

pre-registration is required for sum-mer reading! Pick up a reading log at any Fort Collins Library or print it from the library’s website, and bring back the completed log to collect a prize June 17-August 4. Kids and teens earn a free book and a coupon for TCBY frozen yogurt by reading or listening for 10 hours. Babies and toddlers can earn a book and frozen yogurt by completing 10 activities on the reading log. All readers who complete and turn in logs will be en-tered in the raffle as well.

• Readers to the rescue: For every five additional hours of reading after completing a reading log, $1 will be donated to the Wildlands Resto-ration Volunteers to support their efforts in the High Park Fire burn area. Reading hours must be turned in by August 4.

• Photo Contest: Kids of all ages are in-vited to participate in this year’s photo contest to earn monetary prizes. Submit up to two photos to librarycontest@poudrelibraries.org by July 26. The theme this year is “From Underneath,” and judges will look for photos that capture the perspective of looking up at the world around us. Age groups in-clude 0-12, 13-17, and 18 and up.

• Puppet Pals: Enjoy children’s stories acted out by puppets on the library puppet stage! Shows are geared for ages 3 and up.

• Story Express: Traveling storytime is recommended for children 6 and under and takes place at 9:30am. see website for schedule.

• Animal Afternoon: Elementary-agers can read to critters at 3pm on select dates, courtesy of Larimer Animal and

People Partnership.• Dig, Dig, Dig: Discover hidden trea-

sures! Free program for ages 3-5.• Family Night: Friday night at 7pm, en-

joy a craft, story, movie or presentation for the whole family at Council Tree Library!

• Monday events for all ages: June 10, 2pm at Old Town Library Park and 7pm at Harmony Library South Lawn: Sound Ideas June 17, 2pm at Old Town Library Park: The Green Scene June 24, 2pm at Old Town Library Park and 7pm at Harmony Library South Lawn: Hip-Hop for Kids July 1, 2pm at Old Town Library Park: Buried Stories from the Past July 8, 2pm at Old Town Library Park and 7pm at Harmony Library South Lawn: Music Takes Flight July 15, 2pm at Old Town Library Park: Bug Songs July 22, 2pm at Old Town Library Park and 7pm at Harmony Library South Lawn: The Magic of Cody Landstrom.

• Tuesday kids events: These activities are held at 2pm at Old Town Library. Registration is required by contacting the library on visiting online.

• Teens Create: Registration Required by contacting the library or visiting online. June 8, 1:30-3:30pm, Council Tree Library: Duct Tape Crafts June 19, 1:30-3:30pm, Old Town Li-brary: Dream Catchers! June 26, 1-2pm, Council Tree Library: Dirt Cakes! July 10, 1-3pm, Old Town Library: Origami July 24, 1:30-3:30pm, Council Tree Library: “Altered” Book Journals.

• Storytimes: Peek-A-Boo Time (Ages 0-2): Mondays, 10:15am and 11:15am, Harmony Library; Tuesdays, 10:15am and 11:15am, Old Town Library; Wednesdays, 10:15am and 11:15am, Council Tree Library.

• Summer Storytimes (Ages 2 and up): Tuesdays, 10:30am, Council Tree Li-brary; Thursdays, 10:30am, Harmony Library; Fridays, 10:30am, Old Town Library Park; Saturdays, 10:15am, Council Tree Library.

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thompson school district newsteachers honored at 2012-2013 crystal apple awards

Winners of the Thompson School Dis-trict 2012-2013 Crystal Apple Awards were honored on April 19.  Produced by the Thompson Education Association, the awards are designed to recognize excellence in the field of education throughout the district.

Elementary schools nominated one teacher per building, while secondary schools nominated up to two teachers per building.  The nomination forms were assessed using a rubric and then narrowed to three entries per level to compete for a cash prize.  The three finalists’ applications were sent to a third-party reviewer who chose the final cash prize recipients.  The cash award that was presented at each level was $250.00.

Cash award winners:• Delaine Holdeman - Truscott Elementary• Janette McCahan - Lucile Erwin MS• Amy Burch - Loveland High School

 Crystal Apple Award Winners:• Berthoud Elementary

Barbara Anne Ewing• Coyote Ridge Elementary

Stephanie Jepson• Carrie Martin Elementary

Denise Lewis• Truscott Elementary

Delaine Holdeman• Van Buren Elementary

Kim McKee• Mary Blair Elementary

Marc Messervey• Namaqua Elementary

Sheila Perry• Winona Elementary

Julie Peters• Early Childhood

Margaret Schulz• Ivy Stockwell Elementary

Angie Vincent• Lucile Erwin Middle School

Tera Denning Janette McCahan

• Bill Reed Middle School Karen Helfrich

• Loveland High School Amy Burch Carrie Linville

• Thompson Valley High School Beth Shupe

• Berthoud High School Rob Sommerfeld

ThOMPsON vAllEy sTUdENT CAPTUREs $10,000 sChOlARshiPThe Comcast Foundation has announced the 2013-2014 recipients of its annual Leaders and Achievers® Scholarship Program awards.  

“Each year, we are excited to pro-vide scholarships for these talented stu-dents,” says Charisse R. Lillie, President of the Comcast Foundation and Vice President, Community Investment of Comcast Corporation, who traveled to Denver from Comcast’s Philadelphia headquarters to announce the awards. “Comcast seeks students who demon-strate leadership abilities in school activities and who reflect a strong com-mitment to community service.  These students are our future leaders, and we hope these scholarships will help to power their dreams for success.”  

A total of $73,000 in scholarship funding will be awarded to 55 Colora-do students, with 53 students receiving $1,000 each, and two—Andria Kelly of Thompson Valley High School in Loveland and Tianya Jackson of Martin Luther King, Jr. Early College in Denver—each receiving $10,000. Students will receive the scholarship awards this summer as they prepare to begin college in the fall.    

“Each fall, we ask principals and guidance counselors to help us identify the best and the brightest high school seniors across Colorado for recognition as ‘Leaders and Achievers,’” says Rich Jennings, Senior Regional Vice President of Comcast’s Mile High Region.  “Com-cast is proud to honor these outstanding young leaders who are committed not only to their own academic and future success, but also are passionate about serving others in their communities.”

The Comcast Leaders and Achiev-ers® Scholarship Program provides $1,000 scholarships to students who

At the 2012-2013 Crystal Apple Awards: Delaine Holdeman, Janette McCahan, Amy Burch, Laurie Shearer, and Kerrie Dallman-President of the Colorado Education Association.

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strive to achieve their potential, are cat-alysts for positive change in their com-munities, are involved in their schools, and who serve as models for their fellow students. Each year in Colorado, two stu-dents are also selected to receive $10,000 scholarship awards.

The philosophy behind the program

is to give young people every opportunity to prepare for the future and to engage them in their communities. The program also demonstrates the importance of civic involvement and the value placed on civic involvement by the business community.

“I am so impressed by the incred-ible talent of our students here in the

Thompson School District,” said Dr. Stan Scheer, Superintendent of Schools.”

Since the program’s inception, more than 550 Colorado students have re-ceived a total of $667,000 in scholarship funding. Nationally, Comcast has award-ed nearly $19 million to nearly 19,000 Leaders and Achievers Scholarship win-ners across the country.

The Comcast Foundation was founded by Comcast Corporation in June 1999 to provide charitable support to qualified nonprofit organizations. The Foundation primarily invests in programs intended to have a positive, sustainable impact on their communi-ties.  The Foundation has three commu-nity investment priorities—promoting community service, expanding digital literacy, and building tomorrow’s leaders. Since its inception, the Comcast Foun-dation has donated more than $123 mil-lion to organizations in the communities nationwide that Comcast serves. More information about the Foundation and its programs is available at www. comcast.com/community.

Lanny Hass, who will become the principal at Thompson Valley High School on July 1, helped Andria to celebrate her special day.

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28 | RMPARENT

poudre school district newsVolunteer loves students’ enthusiasm for math

Poudre School District has over 17,000 volunteers, consisting of parents, grand-parents, seniors and community mem-bers. Managing that many volunteers in 48 schools is quite a feat! Helping the PSD’s Volunteers & Partnerships office manage the multitude of volun-teers at each school site is a Volunteer Building Coordinator (VBC). These dedicated volunteers donate many hours to ensure the volunteer program at their school is a success. Some have done it for many years, starting in el-ementary schools, and continuing in this volunteer position even after their children move on to middle school and even high school!

Daniella Philliber has been co-coordinator at Zach Elementary for the past year, and has been active-ly volunteering and involved since 2006 when her first son started kin-dergarten. Since she works full time, she found the VBC position to be a perfect fit, as she could do most of the tasks at home. “This is a perfect volunteering position for anyone that cannot make it into the school on a regular basis. You can do it on your

own time – all you need is organiza-tion,” says Philliber. She shares the VBC position with Diane Desrosiers, and says, “Between the two of us, we get the job done!”

In the past, signing up for volun-teer opportunities at Zach consisted of using paper forms that listed all volunteering opportunities for the year. Parents would sign up at the beginning of the year and the forms would be used to fill those needs throughout the school year. Phil-liber was successful at changing the process by utilizing an online signup program and emailing the volunteers through the volunteer software pro-gram. Philliber says, “I anxiously set up my first online signup sheet and then emailed all the Zach volunteers through the software program. I left my computer for about an hour and when I came back, I had a flood of email confirmations. I was amazed at the quick response and knew that this was going to work!” This new sign-up process has given their volunteers the power to schedule themselves. “My hopes are that we get a higher percentage of the school volunteer-ing, we share the workload more evenly throughout the school, and that everyone feels that they can help out the school in ways that work for them, no matter how large or small,” says Philliber.

Philliber has enjoyed helping in the classroom. Her favorite assign-ment was helping in a third grade math class, where she sat in the back of the classroom and worked with children one-on-one, going over their mistakes/questions, or testing them on their multiplication tables. Each child would come with their pencils sharpened, ready to tackle material they needed help with. She says, “I loved their enthusiasm to fix their mistakes and learn new material. I especially loved helping the kids pass

their multiplication tables. Every child wanted me to test them, so on the days that I came in, I was like a rock star! They all just lit up when I arrived. Who would have thought that multiplication was so cool!”

In her spare time, Philliber enjoys reading and running. She also loves to ski, hike, and bike with her family.

Philliber says their volunteers step up every day, wherever there is a need. She also says the staff at Zach is terrific. They help out the PTO when needed, and respond promptly to important requests. “We are one team when it comes to the children’s safety and education.”

Psd sPRiNg 2013 TEAChER sURvEy REsUlTs ARE POsiTivE Results from the Teaching, Empow-ering, Leading, and Learning edu-cator (TELL) survey show Poudre School District teachers think more positively about time, facilities and resources, community support and  involvement, managing student con-duct and teacher leadership than the statewide average.

The Colorado educator survey is biennial and asks for teachers’ thoughts about teaching and learn-ing conditions.

“1,410 PSD teachers took the TELL survey,” says Dwayne Schmitz, PSD director of research and evaluation. “That indicates a 73.3 percent response rate for PSD compared to a 54.5 percent statewide response rate. So, more of our teach-ers took the survey and the results are very positive for PSD.”

The spring 2013 survey showed that PSD educators agreed that their schools had support from the community, with 84 to 95 percent of survey participants agreeing with statements such as the community supports teachers, parents are influ-ential decision makers and that the

Volunteer Building Coordinator Daniella Philliber.

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30 | RMPARENT

school maintains clear, two-way com-munication with the community. The majority of teachers surveyed also thought they had sufficient access to various resources.

Overall highlights from the TELL survey in PSD include:

From the spring 2011 to spring 2013, PSD increased its percentages of favorable outcomes on 92 of 94 items. The two items that did not increase moved down by less than one percent each. See TELL comparison of PSD 2011 to 2013.

PSD outcomes are more favor-able than the overall state’s outcomes for 93 out of 94 items. See results of PSD TELL survey versus state TELL survey Sping 2013.

RMhs sTUdENTs TEACh bAUdER sTUdENTs dURiNg hEART dissECTiON ACTiviTy Bauder Elementary fifth-graders learned about the parts of the heart and how to be heart-healthy with the help of Rocky Mountain High School students.

RMHS anatomy and physiology students shared their knowledge with Bauder students, guiding and teach-

ing them while they examined and dissected hearts together during a science activity.

RMHS teacher Carol Seemueller says the Rocky students enjoy work-ing with the younger students, who are studying life systems and the hu-man body. “Teenagers are such great teachers with elementary kids. They want to share what they know and they want to do a good job. They get

along really well and appreciate each other,” she says.

Fifth-grade teacher Rita Broz-ka says the high school students are great role models for the students. “The Rocky students have a lot of knowledge. I also think our students just like having different teachers,” she says.

TOlMAR, iNC., PREsENTs ChECk TO PROgRAM ThAT hElPs fEEd POUdRE sChOOl disTRiCT fAMiliEs Gerry Lake, (below, far right) vol-unteer coordinator and chairman of the board of McBackpack, Inc., accepted a check for $8,199 from Mike Duncan, chief executive of-fice of TOLMAR, Inc. TOLMAR employees also made a large food donation to the program, and TOL-MAR, Inc., more than matched funds raised by employees. 

McBackpack will use the funds to continue sending home weekend food bags with PSD students, whose fam-ilies are in need.  In partnership with the Food Bank for Larimer County, McBackpack has been supplying food for families since 2007. TOLMAR, Inc., is a Fort Collins-based pharma-ceutical research, development, man-ufacturing and commercial operations company specializing in dental, der-matology and oncology products. They employ over 400 employees locally.

Rocky Mountain High School anatomy and physiology students shared their knowledge with Bauder Elementary fifth-graders. The students worked together on a heart dissection activity.

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greeley-evans district 6 newsengage online academy receives multi-district designation

Engage Online Academy, an online middle and high school operated by Greeley-Evans School District 6, has received approval from the Colorado Department of Education and the Col-orado Board of Education to operate as a multi-district school.

This means that beginning this fall, Engage can enroll Colorado stu-dents from outside the boundaries of Greeley-Evans School District 6.

“This creates the opportunity for District 6 to attract more students and bring this quality education option to more students in our state,” says Deagan Andrews, director of eLearning Services for District 6.

Andrews says the online academy has already garnered interest from surrounding communities, as well as from students and school districts on the eastern plains looking to offer this option to students.

Students can enroll full-time for online classes, or just take one course. Andrews says Engage Online Academy is modeled after the very best online schools in the nation, and includes a wide variety of courses, including Ad-vanced Placement classes.

Engage also offers many opportuni-ties to meet personally with teachers to get one-on-one help with classes.

Engage will soon be moving to Cameron School, 1424 13th Avenue, where support services for both middle and high school students will be central-ized and expanded.

To enroll in Engage Online Acade-my, visit www.engageonlineacademy.org or call (970) 348-6262.

NiNE disTRiCT 6 sTUdENTs NAMEd dANiEls sChOlARsNine graduating seniors from Greeley- Evans School District 6 have received the prestigious Daniels Scholarship.

Paid for through the Daniels Fund, a private foundation started by entre-preneur and cable television pioneer

Bill Daniels, these scholarships cover four years of tuition and fees, room and board, books and miscellaneous educa-tional expenses for scholars who attend any accredited nonprofit college or uni-versity in the United States.

Nearly 3,000 students applied for Daniels Scholarships this year. The foundation awarded 250 scholar-ships in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.

The Daniel Fund awards scholarships are based not only on academic success, but also on the character, leadership qualities and commitment to giving back to the community exhibited by students.

“These scholarships will afford incredible opportunities for our students, and is a testament to their strong academic success and com-mitment to community service,” says Superintendent Dr. Ranelle Lang. “We are sincerely proud of their accomplish-ments and congratulate them on this recognition.”

The nine District 6 Daniels Schol-arship recipients for 2013 are:

• Ariel Gutierrez, Greeley Central High School

• Ivonne Morales, Greeley Central High School

• Steve Marcantonio, Greeley West High School

• Mark Retana, Frontier Charter Academy• Ashley Edinger, Northridge High School• Vanessa Martinez, Northridge High

School• Nohely Mendoza, Northridge High School• Jesus Ochoa Mendoza, Northridge High

School• Selena Palomino, Northridge High School

Since the program was launched in 2000, the Daniels fund has awarded more than $94 million in scholarships.

disTRiCT 6, gEA MEMbERshiP APPROvE 2013-14 TEAChER CONTRACTThe Greeley-Evans School District 6 Board of Education and the Greeley Education Association have approved a new master agreement for the 2013-14 school year.

GEA members ratified the contract April 24 by more than 90 percent

of those voting, says GEA President David Delgado.

The Board of Educa-tion also approved the

contract Monday night by a unanimous vote.

The focus of the ne-gotiations was on improv-ing student achievement and the continuation of

the partnership between GEA and District 6 for

stronger public schools in Greeley. This year’s negotiations

process was collaborative, with both sides bringing numerous proposals

that resulted in many compromises.Changes in the master contract include:

• Teacher’s workday will increase by 30 minutes to an 8.5 hour day.

• Planning time for teachers was standard-ized at all grade levels.

• Added flexibility will be built into future academic schedules based on language changes to the contract.

• A new health insurance benefits package for employees was approved.

• Updated language to comply with the state New Teacher Effectiveness law was incorporated.

• Teachers will be given regular perfor-mance and academic steps, as outlined in the master contract, for the 2013-14 school year.

• A performance step in the master con-tract that was frozen in 2010-11 was restored.These two actions will result in an

average 5.88 percent increase for em-ployees across the district.

This contract will go into effect July 1, 2013 and continue through June 30, 2014.

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• Equine-assisted psychotherapy with Dr. Margot Nacey (for children and teens

• NEW! Ponies for Preschoolers! with instructor Dr. Margot Nacey.

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ThROUgh JUNE 16 Guys and Dolls: A Musical Fable of Broadway An 11-time Tony Award winning classic, this soars with the spirit of Damon Runyon’s Broadway. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Dr., Johnstown, CO. 970-744-3747 or www.coloradocandlelight.com.

ThROUgh AUgUsT 25 Shrek: the Musical This Colorado state premiere is certain to be the biggest endeavor ever presented by Midtown Arts Center. This show brings the hilarious story of everyone’s favorite ogre to life. Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970-225-2555 or www.midtownartscenter.com.

JUNE 1-29 A Midsummer Night’s Dream True love tumbles and bumbles in Shakespeare’s most popular and beloved comedy. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

JUNE 7-8 Greeley Blues Jam The best blues in Colorado! Island Grove Park, 501 N. 14th Ave., GR. www.greeleybluesjam.wordpress.com.

JUNE 7-9 Taste of Fort Collins This three-day festival offers attendees food from local and national restaurants, entertainment from regionally and internationally acclaimed musicians, and an eclectic display of fine artisans work as well as the region’s best crafters. Downtown, FC. www.tasteoffortcollins.com.

JUNE 22-23 Colorado Brewer’s Festival Join us and enjoy Colorado’s best beers, fabulous food, and stellar Colorado music. Downtown, FC. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

saturday, June 1 Meeker Home Open: The Meeker Children Explore the lives of Greeley’s founding family. Meeker Home Museum, 1324 9th Ave., GR. 10am-2pm. 970-350-9220 or www.greeleymuseums.com.

sunday, June 2 Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Hoop House Design & Construction Presented by the Sustainable Living Association. Old Feed Store, 3612 W. County Rd. 54-G, Laporte, CO. 9am-4pm. 970-224-3247 or www.sustainablelivingassociation.org.

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

monday, June 3 Anasazi of the American Southwest: Part 2 Richard Grant will share photos from his trips to Chaco Canyon and surrounding Chacoan outlier sites in New Mexico. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6122 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Read & Seed: Dragonflies This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

tuesday, June 4 Beam Me Up! Teens Celebrate Star Trek Day To celebrate the recent release of the new Star Trek movie, take a look back and enjoy “Star Trek, The Wrath of Khan” (rated PG). Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1-4:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Great Decisions Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Read & Seed: Dragonflies This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Noontime Notes Live intimate music featuring styles such as Latin, Folk, Bluegrass and Jazz with local Fort Collins trios and quartets. Oak Street Plaza, College Ave. & Oak St., FC. 11:30am-1pm. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

J U N E 2 0 1 3

OnGOInG

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FREEEXAMINATION

Dr. Milnor’s Office also offers discounts of up to 10% OFF and reasonable payment plans to fit your budget.

Married or living with your partner? Have a child aged 10-14?

If so, you can participate in a study examining family relationships

and children’s health!

If you participate, you can earn up to $80 for

you and your family.

For more information, send an email to: chhs-hdfs_Family_lab@mail.colostate.edu

call: (970)491-5129 or visit: frdl.colostate.edu.

Primary investigator: Dr. Rachel Lucas-Thompson

Study title: Family Relationships in Early Adolescence

36 | RMPARENT

Wednesday, June 5 Root Crops: Growing in the Garden and Using Them in the Kitchen Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for Infants This program focuses on nurturing interactions, a healthy & safe environment and games to support brain development and emotional health. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

thursday, June 6 Nooks @ Your Library In this class we will show you how to download library eBooks to your Nook from home anytime. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Thursday Night Concert: Mark Sloniker & Hugh Ragin Presented by Bohemian Nights. Jazz. Old Town Square, Fort Collins. 7-9pm. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Friday, June 7 First Friday Gallery Walk Old Town, FC. 6-9pm. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Scrabble @ Your Library Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 10am-12:45pm. 970-221-6122 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Library eBooks on Your iPad/iPhone and Android Devices We will show you how to find the Overdrive, Freading and One Click Digital apps, download them to your device, and begin checking out library eBooks and eAudiobooks on your phone or tablet! Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10:30am-12:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Noches en Familia Come and enjoy a time of stories, crafts, puppets, and songs in Spanish. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 5-6pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

saturday, June 8 Facebook En esta clase aprenderá como crear y usar una cuenta de facebook. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 10am-Noon. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Teen IRS: Interesting Reader Society Meeting Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 11am-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Perennial Bloom Tour Learn some of the best new varieties, what conditions they prefer and see how they perform in our garden. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 9-10am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Greeley Blues Jam Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 11am. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

sunday, June 9 Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

monday, June 10 Sound Ideas A Khaen, a Didgeridu, Angklungs: Michael Stanwood plays them all and wants you to play them too in this unique, interactive, and often hilarious program. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-2:45pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Read & Seed: Worm Bins This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Tiny Trekkers Join our naturalist for a fun-filled morning with crafts, stories and fun facts. The Devil ’s Backbone Open Space, W of LV. 10am. 970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

tuesday, June 11 Kevin Cook: Colorado Birds Great stories of life and living. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Noon -1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Read & Seed: Worm Bins This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

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

Where Ideas Hang Out Nationally known artist Scott Nash shares with tweens the inspiration for creating books and characters for various media. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-3:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

International Night: Findland Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Scott Nash: Design, Illustration, and Beyond Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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So much MORE than your NEIGHBORHOOD POOL!

ADDITIONAL SERVICES AND AMENITIES OFFERED AT FCC• FCC Club Fit• Rocky Mountain Physical

Therapy on-site• Personal Trainers• Raquetball and Handball

Courts• Salon Giorgio: Full Service

Salon and Spa• Summer Camps for Kids• Over 30 Yoga Classes per week

• Kids’ Club House: Air Hockey, X boxes, foosball, and more!

• Kids’ Club Daycare• Swim Team• Swim Lessons• Spring Creek Trail access• Kiddie pool with family

changing area nearby• Outdoor pool with a slide!• Children’s playground• Sand Volleyball court

CONTACT MEMBERSHIP FOR MORE DETAILS

970-224-CLUBmembership@fcc.net

www.fortcollinsclub.net

1307 East Prospect RoadFort Collins, CO 80525

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Don’t get lost in the digital divide!

With both print and digital mediums, RM Parent and RM Senior offer your business immediate credibility, distinctiveness and a visual presence that social media alone just can’t offer.

Our readers are educated, earn better than average incomes and own their own homes. Monthly print

magazines are GROWING in popularity as consumers and small businesses look for comprehensive and in-depth

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With local distribution in the school districts and at over 1,500 distribution locations, RM Parent and RM Senior con-nect with who you want to reach on an intimate level.

to Advertise in : Fort Collins, call Greg Hoffman at 689-6832

Lovland, Greeley and Windsor, call Scott Titterington at 980-9183.

38 | RMPARENT

Dance Factory Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 5pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Noontime Notes Live intimate music featuring styles such as Latin, Folk, Bluegrass and Jazz with local Fort Collins trios and quartets. Oak Street Plaza, College Ave. & Oak St., FC. 11:30am-1pm. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Wednesday, June 12 Scribble a Story with Scott Nash Nationally known children’s book author/illustrator Scott Nash tells stories, shares drawing tricks, shows where ideas hang out, and inspires kids ages 5-8 to create their own stories. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10:30-11:30am. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

How Not to Be a Starving Artist Scott Nash shares his diverse background as a nationally known author/illustrator. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1-2:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Creating Characters through Animation Join nationally known author/illustrator Scott Nash as he shares his secrets for developing characters for animation. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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

Dance Factory Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 5pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

thursday, June 13 US Universal Pageant High-Fashion takes the stage. Women from all over the USA compete for the ultimate title of Mrs. US Universal 2013! The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Scribble a Story with Scott Nash Nationally known children’s book author/illustrator Scott Nash tells stories, shares drawing tricks, shows where ideas hang out, and inspires kids ages 5-8 to create their own stories. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 10:30-11:30am. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

The Nashbox Studio Meet our nationally known Artist-in-Residence Scott Nash and get a sneak peak at his current project as he sets up shop. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 1-3pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Family Night: Dig into Reading with Scott Nash Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Vitamins: the Spark of Life Learn how and why they keep you running. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Dance Factory Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 5pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Thursday Night Concert: Kizumba Presented by Bohemian Nights. Latin. Old Town Square, Fort Collins. 7-9pm. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Friday, June 14 Ignite #14 Ignite is a night of presentations on a variety of topics, with a twist. Each presentation has 20 slides that automatically advance after 15 seconds. It is a worldwide movement. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Family Fun Night: Project Pine Cone The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 6:30-8pm. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Greeley Conservatory of Dance Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 6pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

saturday, June 15 It’s Showtime! Presented by Loveland Dance Academy. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 6pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

Dig, Dig, Dig! Discover all kinds of hidden treasures. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am-Noon. Ages 3-5. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Ocean Frontiers: Film and Panel Discussion Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 1-3pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Movie Night: The Mummy (1932) Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Messages in Stone Easy hike with naturalist Ed. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, W of LV. 10am. 970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Camping Clinic Intro to camping skills and gear. Jax Outdoor, 1200 N. College Ave., FC. 11am. 970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Studio M Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 4:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

sunday, June 16 Game Day @ Your Library Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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monday, June 17 The Green Scene Play-Ground Theatre Co. will delight and amuse with recycling pirates, green game show trivia, and the world’s first organic superhero, Supernatural. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-2:45pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for Infants This program focuses on nurturing interactions, a healthy & safe environment and games to support brain development and emotional health. McKee Medical Center, 2000 N. Boise Ave., LV. 11:15am-12:15pm. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Read & Seed: Wind Wishes This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

tuesday, June 18 Improv 4 Tweens Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-3:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Read & Seed: Wind Wishes This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Meet the Honey Badger! Make sound effects instruments and a mural of African animals, play a game, and enjoy sweet treats at this event starring that fearless digger, the Honey Badger of Botswana. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-3:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for Infants This program focuses on nurturing interactions, a healthy & safe environment and games to support brain development and emotional health. Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. Noon-1pm. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

A Dance Plane Spring Recital Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 6pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Noontime Notes Live intimate music featuring styles such as Latin, Folk, Bluegrass and Jazz with local Fort Collins trios and quartets. Oak Street Plaza, College Ave. & Oak St., FC. 11:30am-1pm. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Wednesday, June 19 Bright Beginnings for Infants This program focuses on nurturing interactions, a healthy & safe environment and games to support brain development and emotional health. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Natural Childbirth: Coping Strategies for Pain Management Strategies for labor and delivery to include relaxation, breathing, visualization, movement, or massage and use of tools such as birthing balls, aromatherapy, or rebozos. Poudre Canyon Room, Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 7-9:30pm. 970-495-7500 or www.pvhs.org.

For the Love of Lavender This class will cover the basics of growing lavender, including tips on variety selection, planting, care and harvesting. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 6-8pm. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Where to Go in Larimer County Jax Outdoor, 1200 N. College Ave., FC. 11am. 970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Fort CollinsFort Collins & Loveland Farmers’ Marketswww.fortcollinsfm.com1001 E. Harmony Rd. (in front of Ace Hardware)Sundays 11am-3pmWednesdays 11am-3pm

Larimer County Farmers’ Marketwww.LarimerCountyFarmersMarket.orgLarimer County Courthouse Parking Lot, 200 Oak St., FC.Saturdays 8am-noon

Drake Road Farmers’ Marketwww.DrakeRoadFarmersMarket.com802 W. Drake Rd., FC (nW corner of Drake & Worthington)Saturdays 10am-1pm

LovelandFort Collins & Loveland Farmers’ Marketswww.fortcollinsfm.comLoveland Farmers’ Market3133 n. Garfield (in front of Hobby Lobby)Tuesdays 11am-3pm

Loveland Farmers’ Marketwww.lovelandfm.comLoveland Station Parking Area, W. Loveland Ave. & 2nd St., LV.Tuesdays 3-7pm

GreeleyGreeley Farmers’ Marketwww.Greeleygov.comUnion Pacific Depot, 902 7th Ave., GRSaturdays 7:30am-noonWednesdays 3-6pm (starting July 10)

West Greeley Farmers Marketwww.RealTimeFarms.com2555 47th Ave., GRSundays 10am-3pm

WindsorWindsor Farmers Marketwww.Windsorgov.com5th St. & Main St., WindsorSaturdays 9-12:30pm

2013 Farmer’s MarketsCheck out the fresh produce and local products this summer at one of these farmers markets.

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thursday, June 20 Thursday Night Concert: Katie Glassman Presented by Bohemian Nights. Gypsy, Western Swing. Old Town Square, Fort Collins. 7-9pm. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Family Night: Dirt Movers! Story and craft fun featuring dozers, dump trucks, diggers and more. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-7:45pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

saturday, June 22 WOTBV: Worms of the Book Variety Teen Book Club Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 11am-12:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Movie Night: Jaws Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6:30-8:45pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

sunday, June 23 Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

monday, June 24 Hip-Hop for Kids Neil McIntyre celebrates what it really means to be a kid with fun and inspiring hip-hop music. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-2:45pm; Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-7:45pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Read & Seed: Flower Press This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Treasure Hunters The Rocky Mountain Prospectors and Treasure Hunters Club will present an informative program on how to get started treasure hunting. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

tuesday, June 25 Colossal Caves! Become a cave explorer and create a super-sized glow worm, bats, salamanders, magic salt crystals, and more. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-3:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Construction Zone Come and build a fun time with us through stories, songs, games and a variety of construction projects. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-3:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Writing Against Delusion Whether or not we’re interested in publishing, writing “make-believe” can help us peel away the unreliable internal narration, judgment and criticism that are bound to lead us astray in day to day life. Workshop led by Bonnie Nadzam. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Noontime Notes Live intimate music featuring styles such as Latin, Folk, Bluegrass and Jazz with local Fort Collins trios and quartets. Oak Street Plaza, College Ave. & Oak St., FC. 11:30am-1pm. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Wednesday, June 26 Teens Create: Dirt Cakes! Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 1-2pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Dig, Dig, Dig! Discover all kinds of hidden treasures. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 1-2pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

The Music of Marc Black Marc Black is an eclectic folk-rocker. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for Two-Year-Olds This class explores positive guidance strategies and how to provide a supportive environment that promotes early literacy, brain development, and a healthy/safe environment during the active two’s. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

thursday, June 27 Thursday Night Concert: 3 Twins Broadband Presented by Bohemian Nights. R&B Americana. Old Town Square, Fort Collins. 7-9pm. 970-484-6500 or www.downtownfortcollins.com.

Family Night: My Garden Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-7:45pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Make it Loud Tap into the inspirational power of music. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

saturday, June 29 Tree Talk & Walk Learn about the trees in Fort Collins. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 9-10am. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

sunday, June 30 Tea with Queen Victoria Your presence is requested for tea and a display of jewels of the Victorian Era with background harp music. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1:30-3pm & 3:30-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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time outPool reflectionsSwim season evokes memories of those crazy days of youth

t h E r E S a m y E r S

You have to love Colorado. Win-ter, three days of spring and now summer.

But it does get me excited for pool season. My younger daughter still likes hanging out at the pool with her friends. Once in a while I tag along. As I watch her and her friends do handstands and jump off the diving board from an ac-ceptable, noninvasive distance, the smell of chlorine and coconut tanning oil bring me right back to my own childhood.

When I was growing up in Louisville, the town had no municipal swimming pool. So, every morning in the summer, my mother and her two sisters would load up all us kids–11 total–and cart us to the Elks Club in Boulder for swimming les-sons and sometimes more swimming after.

Our mothers had to be crazy, packing us into station wagons with towels and picnic lunches. We fought and talked and made an incredible ruckus all the way to the pool, where we would tumble out of the cars shouting and run to the water.

Still, some of the best memories I have from my childhood are wrapped up in those swimming pool trips.

Like the time my Aunt Nadine leaped over a retaining wall fully-clothed and splashed frantically into the baby pool to “rescue” a little girl who was drowning, only to find the little girl’s mother a few feet away watching her daughter bob in the water, a skill the girl had apparently just attained and was showing off.

Or, how about the time my sister, horribly terrified of heights, stood on the high dive trembling for about a half-hour before the instructor finally ran up behind her and they went off the board together. I do believe my sister’s scream is still hanging over Boulder and can be heard during violent thunderstorms.

Then there was the time my moth-er, who was not a very good swimmer, was attempting to swim laps with my

Aunt Nadine, who apparently took her self-appointed role as the “Saver of All” very seriously. While doing the crawl stroke, my mother apparently brushed against my aunt, who somehow took that to mean my mother was drowning and began calling frantically for the lifeguard. A young man, fully-clothed, jumped into the water and saved my Aunt Nadine. When he got her to the

side she was screaming, “Not me, her, HER!” and pointing in the direction of my mother who was sitting on the side, watching the rescue unfold.

But the funniest, most often repeated story involves, yes, my Aunt Nadine and her young son, Randy. Randy was proba-bly about 8 years old at the time, and had a reputation as a bit of a troublemaker. It was a busy day at the pool, when Randy yelled a question across the crowded water to his mother. “Mom,” he yelled. “Chuck (my brother) said @%$& is a bad word. Is it?” Well, it was the mack daddy of bad words, the ultimate in cussing.

“What, Randy,” my aunt yelled

back. “I can’t hear you!”This time he screamed, “Is @%$&

a bad word!!” People started to turn to look at Randy and my aunt.

“Randy, honey, you are going to have to speak up. I just can’t hear you!” she said.

“I said,” he screamed, this time with all his might. “IS @%$& A BAD WORD!!!”

The pool was silent. Everyone heard

that time, including my aunt, finally.“Randy,” she growled. “Get over

here right now!”By the time she was through with

him, there was no doubt in Randy’s mind that what he’d been shouting at the pool was indeed a bad word.

I must admit, my trips to the pool are a little more peaceful. Mostly I just read a book and paddle around during the adult swim, and of course fork over money when the girls need a snack.

I hope my daughters have good pool memories when they are adults with chil-dren of their own. I just also hope they are a little more tame than mine.

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