Loveland & South, CO August 2023

Kids and Pets

Here

Has the summer gone by way too fast this year or is it just us? Summer is like a burst of joy and wonder and what better way to hold on tight to its last few weeks than to focus on our two favorite things. Our kiddos, and our pets! Kids are like little superheroes, shaping the world with their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential. Can you imagine the epic adventures they'll embark on?

And let's not forget about our furry friends! Pets have this magical ability to transform our lives and create unforgettable experiences for kids and adults alike. They offer unconditional love, teach us valuable life lessons, and provide a nurturing environment for personal growth.

This issue is filled with tutorials on creating the best August you can, both for your human family and your furry family too. Let this issue be your guide to unleashing a tidal wave of extra fun, love, and laughter upon the children and pets in your life this month!

Cheers to an exhilarating adventure with the little ones and their adorable four-legged pals! Let the fun begin!

August 2023

PUBLISHERS

Jahna Eichel | jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com

Jason Eichel | jason.eichel@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Macey VanDenMeerendonk macey.v@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Morgan Henderson morgan@fortcollinscreativeagency.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Matthew Hart matthew@fortcollinscreativeagency.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tony Deyo | tony@fortcollinscreativeagency.com

Amy Asche | amy@fortcollinscreativeagency.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

The Creative Agency hello@fortcollinscreativeagency.com

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

Discover the Youth Support Your Cooperative Offers

There are many ways your co-op adds value to your life and supports our kids.

• Summer youth trips for high school juniors & seniors

• Scholarships for high school seniors continuing their education

• Electrical safety demonstrations

• Online safety activities, games & information

• Grants for STEAM classroom projects

• & MORE!

Applications open 8/1. Scan this code to learn more or visit us online at pvrea.coop/my-community/for-our-kids/

•

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @lovelandandsouthlifestyle

IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Dr. Stan Scheer Memorial Student Opportunity Fund Thompson Education Foundation Annual Golf Tournament

"Thompson Education Foundation honors the legacy of Dr. Stan Scheer with this annual golf tournament benefiting the Dr. Stan Scheer Memorial Student Opportunity Fund. The Scheer Student Opportunity Fund provides gap funding for Thompson School District students to embrace individual academic, leadership, recognition and extracurricular opportunities to ensure opportunities when there are financial barriers in the way."

Fort Collins Comic Con

Fort Collins Comic Con has donated over $120,000 to the Poudre River Public Library District by bringing together thousands of geeks, pop-culture enthusiasts, gamers, fans, artists, writers, creators, cosplayers, and more into the Northside Aztlan Community Center. Led by a team of super-geeks who love to build community and help fellow nerds, Fort Collins Comic Con brings the full convention experience to a small-scale event. This year’s event is August 25-26 and badges can be purchased at FoCoComicCon.com starting 7/7.

Loveland's Barbie Movie Debut

Loveland based Tailgating Challenge President Luke Lorick appears in a montage scene (filmed in Loveland!) where Ken learns "manly" activities. Ken, played by Ryan Gosling, has traveled to the “real world” from “Barbie land”. Three cheers for Luke's debut Hollywood film role!

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/LovelandandSouth

ONE PAW AT A TIME

The Larimer Humane Society strives to make impactful connections between people and animals

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY ASCHE

The Larimer Humane Society is dedicated to furthering the compassionate, safe, and responsible relationship between animals and people. And while that is their mission statement and what they strive to do everyday, they go far beyond that in their day-to-day interactions with the Larimer County community and the animals in their care. In fact, in 2022 alone, 6,566 animals were cared for by the humane society. There’s no denying the impact they have on Larimer County.

CONTINUED >

The animal care and adoption services are just a portion of the amount of work and importance the shelter holds. With resources available in behavior services, puppy socialization classes, pet licensing, end of life services, youth camps, school programs, free use of their dog park and walking trails there are so many needs being met for both animal owners and animals themselves.

During the school year, schools often reach out to the humane society for presentations from the staff. Scott Wendelberger, the marketing and community outreach manager at Larimer Humane Society, says the focused presentations for classes is one way the shelter provides humane education to the public.

Their summer youth program, Critter Camp, works to provide proper education to kids about animal and people interaction, proper care of pets, hands-on experience handling animals, and more!

“The five-day camp has kids that are passionate about animals,” Wendelberger said. “They get to come in and get their hands dirty. They get tours of the shelter, some of the staff come down to give presentations, and sometimes we have outside organizations come in, like Northern Colorado Wildlife Center.”

The opportunity for kids to get involved doesn’t end with the humane education programs. Kids starting at the age of 10 years old are able to volunteer with an adult in the shelters Partner Up program. The program allows kids that are interested in animal welfare to participate in the everyday care and handling of the animals so that the animal’s needs are not only being met but exceeded.

While every aspect of the shelter strives to provide the best possible outcome, the adoption services sees the most happy endings. In 2022, 3,533 animals found homes marking a very successful year for the humane society.

One lucky dog, Ringo, was adopted into his forever home a few months ago. Alaina Phinney, Ringo’s adopter, said he has already become a part of the family and is doing so well in his new home.

“One of the best things about owning Ringo is how happy he is to see you when you get home, be it five minutes, or five hours,” Phinney said.

After watching the shelter staff interact with the animals and how they talked about the animals in their care, Phinney said it was a sure choice to adopt from the Larimer Humane Society. Phinney, and her partner, arrived at the shelter open to finding a dog but wanted there to be a strong connection.

“We got to meet Ringo one on one, and he was such a lover with the most emotive eyes. We couldn’t stop talking about coming back to take him home,” Phinney shared.

Since being in his new home, Ringo has been coming out of his shell more and more, showing off his lovable personality and his eagerness to try new things.

“He loves running alongside the skateboard, and is up for any hike he goes on. He is a big cuddle bug - he loves being in your space, doing what you’re doing, whether you want him to be or not. But is ever attentive and willing to please,” Phinney said.

Larimer Humane Society is there for animal owners in every stage and in every situation. They want to see the best case scenario whenever possible. The variety of resources and services available are meant to encourage people to seek help through them so that the animals involved get the best odds in their situation.

While the Larimer Humane Society receives generous donations and a wide range of help from volunteers and foster families, the shelter is always working to better improve their work and the lives of the people and animals that walk through their doors everyday. With an active newsletter and blog, the humane society wants to keep the community informed about shelter updates and needs, fundraising events and efforts, informative tips and tricks for pet owners, and more. Visit their website, www.larimerhumane. org, to learn more about the work they do and how to get involved in contributing to the amazing work they do for the Larimer County community.

“The five-day camp has kids that are passionate about animals. They get to come in and get their hands dirty. They get tours of the shelter, some of the staff come down to give presentations, and sometimes we have outside organizations come in, like Northern Colorado Wildlife Center.”

- Scott Wendelberger

DOG gone GOOD

Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.

|

Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 2 eggs

• 2 1/2 cups flour

(whole wheat preferred)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup milk or half and half

• 3 cups oatmeal

Directions:

In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.

Birthday Cake for Your Pup

Ingredients:

• 1 egg

• 4 tablespoons peanut butter

• 1/2 cup apple, finely chopped

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a ramekin and set aside. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour batter into ramekin and sprinkle a few apple slices on top. Bake for 20 minutes.

B E F O R E A F T E R

C h a n g i n g L i v e s !

m y w e i g h t l o s s g o a l s S h e t a u g h t m e n o t o n l y w h a t e x e r c i s e s t o d o b u t , a l s o , h o w t o c h a n g e m y e a t i n g h a b i t s t o b e h e a l t h i e r a n d i t w a s s o e a s y ! I n 1 2 w e e k s , I l o s t a t o t a l o f 3 8 p o u n d s ! M y m e s s a g e t o e v e r y o n e i s : v i s i t t h e C l u b d o t h e F r e e T r i a l a n d t h e n j o i n s i g n u p f o r y o u r F r e e C o n s u l t a t i o n w i t h a T r a i n e r ; t h e y w i l l b e c o m e y o u r s e c o n d " h o m e " a s w e l l !

c l u b l o v e l a n d

DIY at Home Theater

Our family had so much fun creating this At-Home Movie Theater party for our son Ezra’s 8th birthday. All you need is a projector and an outdoor space, but I wanted to jazz it up just a little bit more.

TICKET BOOTH

I created a ticket booth and concession stand for a full movie theater experience to ensure that our movie night felt like our guests were actually going to a movie theater and not just our house. In attempt to achieve that, we set up a ticket booth at the front door using our kids old puppet theater.

Materials:

• Tickets

• Ticket Booth (optional)

Before entering our theater (aka our backyard), I set up a shadow box for guests to place their entry ticket.

PEGBOARD DISPLAY WALL

I love displaying food in a creative way at our parties. I made this simple DIY Popcorn Display Wall as a statement piece in our concession stand. We have also used it in many other ways for other parties such as a donut wall, bagel wall, pretzel wall and more. You can easily recreate your own for your next party.

Materials:

• Pegboard. I chose the 4ft square size at Lowes for $10 and spray painted it white.

• Frame (optional). I bought two 1x4’s for $5 each, cut 2 pieces 4ft long and 2 pieces 3.5ft long, stained minwax walnut, attached to pegboard with screws through the back.

• Twine to string popcorn bags. Or, if you’re using the pegboard display for donuts, bagels or pretzels then use golf tees hot glued into holes from behind!

• Clothes pins to hang popcorn bags.

• Popcorn bags

SET THE SCENE!

CONCESSION STAND FINISHING TOUCHES

My daughter handed out tickets for guests to use to “purchase” their popcorn, candy and drinks at the concession stand.

Materials:

• Popcorn Machine (optional)

• Popcorn

• Popcorn flavors for guests to get creative!

• Candy - Use boxes rather than bags for movie theater vibes!

• Soda - Use bottles rather than cans

• Napkins

• Cupcake toppers & Plates  (if its a birthday celebration)

• Reused boxes and spray painted them white for guests to easily carry their snacks

I cut out red stars (from foam sheets) and stuck them to the floor (with adhesive putty) to lead guest through the house to the concession stand and back outside to where our movie was going to take place.

Finally, our guests could choose their seating on chairs or blankets around our yard. I also set up a little bug-spray table for people to grab as needed. Dramatic play, even as an adult, is so much fun! Who says staying home can’t be just as entertaining?

I hope you have as much fun at your party as we did! I’d love if you tagged me @silvertoothfarmhome so I can see your At-Home Movie Theater too!! In reflecting on the party, my son said that “the best part of the night was eating candy with my friends.” After all, people are what matter most!

Backyard Chickens

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages. There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low maintenance. And bonus – unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Oh and bonus – they make you breakfast.

The eggs from backyard chickens are the best—tastier and fresher than any store-bought eggs. Much of the day, the birds entertain themselves, picking at grass, worms, beetles, and all of the good things that go into making those delicious farm eggs. Plus, with their keen eye for insect pests, chickens make for great gardening companions.

Chickens can provide family companionship, fun, entertainment, sustainable fresh food, and plenty of poop that gardeners prize as a natural fertilizer/composting material. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Things To Consider Before Getting Chickens:

First, check local town ordinances to ensure that keeping chickens is even allowed in your neighborhood or if there is a limit to the number of chickens you can keep at once.

Make sure you have the space for a henhouse or a full-size chicken coop. It has to hold a feeder and water containers, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure comfortably, but a simple hen house can be quite a bit smaller. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all the predators out there. Gorgeous coops are aplenty on places like Pinterest if you’re building your own, but many pre-made options are available through various farm supply stores as well.

Chickens need food and water daily. Feed is about $20 per 50-pound bag, but prices vary depending on your location and the quality of the feed. How long a bag lasts depends on the number of chickens you have.

Hens will lay eggs through Spring and Summer and into the Fall, as long as they have 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect eggs daily, or even twice a day.

Backyard Chicken Q&A:

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor. Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor

run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

Kid-Friendly Chicken Breeds:

Certain breeds of chicken are also known to be great with kids. There are literally hundreds of breeds of chickens, and each is unique in their own way. Here are ten breeds of chickens that have been found to be good for children.

GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK SHOP LOCAL

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AUGUST 2ND

One Sweet Summer: Kids on the Plaza

THE FOUNDRY PLAZA | 12:00 PM

Every Wednesday until August 9 from 12-2pm join in the fun by participating in free activities with artists, Loveland Public Library and the City of Loveland Park and Recreation, and cool off in the splash pad fountain! Afterward, enjoy a movie at the MetroLux Dine-in Theatre, tickets are $2.

AUGUST 4TH

The 2023 Larimer County Fair and PRCA Rodeo

THE RANCH EVENTS COMPLEX

8:00 AM

Get ready for five days of all things carnival fun coming to Loveland from August 4 at 8am to August 8 at 5pm! There will be games, rides, live music and entertainment, community and 4-H events, open-class competitions, exhibits, fireworks, and so much more to enjoy! The three night Pedersen Toyota PRCA Rodeo is something you won’t want to miss! Tickets can be purchased online at TREventsComplex.com

AUGUST 11TH

Symphony on the Plaza

THE FOUNDRY PLAZA | 6:00 PM

The Loveland Orchestra is having a free outdoor concert on August 11 from 6pm to 8:30pm at the Foundry Plaza.

AUGUST 12TH

39th Annual Sculpture in the Park

BENSON SCULPTURE GARDEN

9:30 AM

Loveland will be showcasing the largest outdoor juried sculpture show in the country on August 12 from 9:30am to 5pm and August 13 from 9:30am to 4:30pm. The event will display over 2,000 sculptures that were created by 160 national and international artists. Admire the magnificent sculptures and interact with artists while perusing the garden. All sculptures that are displayed will be for sale. Tickets from the event are $10 per adult, 14 and under are free.

AUGUST 19TH

Shaw Classic Strongman Competition

BUDWEISER EVENTS CENTER

1:00 PM

The two-day competition showcases the world’s strongest athletes at the Budweiser Events Center on August 19 and 20 from 1pm to 5pm. You won’t want to miss the incredible displays of strength and the entertainment of these athletes who can lift cars, pull trucks, deadlift tires, and more!

AUGUST 26TH

Shop Local Saturdays

DOWNTOWN LOVELAND

8:00 AM

The last Saturday of every month, the Downtown Business Alliance and participating retailers host the Shop Local Saturdays event to encourage the Loveland community to support local businesses. Local businesses offer exclusive promotions, discounts, or a free gift with a purchase for these events, so it’s a perfect time to shop locally!

Three UltraUnique Getaways for Families

A TRIO OF FUN-FILLED ESCAPES THAT WILL LEAVE YOUR FAMILY BEGGING FOR MORE

Introducing Vermejo...

“At the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.”

Bienvenidos to Raton, New Mexico, home to Vermejo Ted Turner Reserves. Flaunting over 550,000 acres of picturesque terrain, Vermejo will welcome your family to a crown jewel of natural beauty.

This destination invites you to custom plan a swoon-worthy experience; choose between kid-friendly fishing expeditions, hiking tours, horseback rides, archery, and more. Indulge in your choice of luxe accommodations and take your taste pallet on a culinary adventure thanks to delectable dining options.

Notably, the property values conservation efforts including the protection of wildlife like bison and wolves.

Rates inclusive of meals and two daily activities.

Introducing Glenwood Springs...

“The greatest legacy we can leave our children is happy memories.”

Happy memories await in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Known for its hot springs, the Rocky Mountain resort city is rich with wildlife and sheer beauty. Offering an array of family-friendly activities, the area is home to the esteemed Glenwood Springs Adventure Park, a must-do with amusement rides and subterranean caverns—a magical geological excursion.

Surely, you’ll want to take a dip in the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Invigorating and rejuvenating for adults and super fun for kids, there’s a vast splash zone, water slide, diving board, and lap lanes.

Glenwood Springs is primed with pristine river spots; the white water is mild and ideal for guided rafting adventures. You can also rent duckies (inflatable kayaks) or paddleboards.

If you’re going to check one hike off your list, opt for the Doc Holliday memorial, and for older kids, explore mountain biking paths for every skill on the paved Rio Grande Trail. In addition, Bair Ranch, located in Glenwood Canyon, offers several activities like horseback riding, ATV & Jeep tours, and sport clay shooting.

Family accommodations include Hotel Glenwood Springs, located at the Glenwood Gondola base that goes to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The property also flaunts a small indoor water facility. For included admission to the hot springs pool, families can also book the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge. The exciting city has over 80 restaurant choices as well.

Introducing Snow Mountain Ranch...

“Never underestimate the importance of having fun.”

Consider Snow Mountain Ranch a fun hub for families; a camp-like atmosphere for those seeking a genuine back-tothe-basics escape. Located in Grand Country Colorado, the YMCA of the Rockies destination is what vacation is meant to be... packed with frivolous play. Awake to breathtaking mountain views and the sound of songbirds, and after an actionpacked day, witness a dreamy sunset from your personal porch.

Accommodations vary; choose between private cabins, spacious lodge rooms, scenic campgrounds, or yurts. Cabins can sleep up to 12, and are equipped with full kitchens, a fireplace, and a deck. You’ll likely spot some deer outside your front door.

Included in all stays: roller skating, swimming, mini-golf, sports, hiking/biking trails, nature walks, and more. But

what makes Snow Mountain extra special are the entertaining “extras.” To make the most out of your stay, partake in archery, axe throwing, horseback riding, arts/crafting, knot-tying, geocaching, and beyond. Plus, there are tons of educational programs that teach guests about local wildlife like bears and wolves. And here’s a tip; if you’re craving some adult-only time, choose to register your child (ages 3+) for summer day camp. Grown-ups can do some adventuring of their own while the kids get a taste of what summer’s supposed to be. And as for food, there’s an array of on-site dining options available.

Everyone will feel like a kid at Snow Mountain Ranch, and the secret’s out; cabins book far in advance, so be sure to secure your spot well ahead of time.