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NorthFortyNews.com Powered by Northern Colorado’s Entertainment & Lifestyle Magazine A PREVIEW OF WHAT’S GOING ON IN NORTHERN COLORADO GOING GREEN NOCO WINTER WONDERLAND DRIVE-THROUGH DISPLAY TAKES NEW STEPS TO CONSERVE See page 4 NORTHERN COLORADO’S WEEKLY INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS Week of December 2, 2024 | Volume 32 | Number 35 new Two electricians from Encore Electric connecting wires inside a ground box at Colorado Youth Outdoors. (Photo Courtesy Colorado Youth Outdoors) Breaking Barriers: Mobility Solutions for Independence in Northern Colorado PAGE 9 Making Sustainable Changes PAGE 3 Poudre Park Poudre Park Community Center Nears Completion of Exciting Renovations PAGE 2 DIGITAL NORTHFORTYNEWS.COM WEEKEND EDITION (RELEASED EACH FRIDAY) Jim's Wings Hot Wings (Photo by Blaine Howerton) Jim’s Wings: A Flavorful Dive Into Fort Collins’ Favorite Wings PAGE 5 3720 Draft Horse Dr Loveland, CO 80538-9005 970-593-6283 CLOTHING | HARDWARE | RANCH SUPPLIES FAMILY OWNED AND FRIENDLY ! SEE AND SAVE -- WEEKLY ADS ARE AT bomgaars.com Fort Collins New Program Dual Enrolls Students at Front Range, CSU PAGE 10Connect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com 2| Week of December 2, 2024 North Forty News is published weekly by North Forty News LLC and distributed digitally at NorthFortyNews.com. The advertising deadline is 10 days prior to distribution. North Forty News LLC 2601 Lemay, Ste 7, PMB 227, Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-221-0213 (phone) • 970-221-0213 (fax) email: info@northfortynews.com website: www.northfortynews.com facebook: northfortynews • twitter: @northfortynews The weekly printed version is available via post-mail each week. Subscribe at: NorthForty.news/subscribe See our website for the latest subscription prices. All original news and art materials in this publication, with the exception of paid ads, are copyright 2019 and cannot be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. North Forty News is not liable for errors in contributors’ materials, original writing or advertisements. In the event of a publisher’s error, liability will be limited to the printing of a correction notice or ad of the same value. @northfortynews northforty.news New content every day! Publisher Blaine Howerton bhowerton@northfortynews.com VP Sales & Marketing Matthew Dierlam mdierlam@northfortynews.com Advertising Matthew Dierlam Blaine Howerton Art Director/Page Layout Blaine Howerton Your support helps us provide coverage of Northern Colorado communities. Support North Forty News in the following ways: Advertise - ads@northfortynews.com Donate - northfortynews.com/donate-now Shop - northfortynews.com/market Subscribe - northfortynews.com/subscribe OUR MISSION As Northern Colorado’s only independently-owned, regional weekly, we connect communities and the people who live in them by providing news of hyper-local events and of businesses, nonprofits, government leaders, and individuals who are working hard to make a difference while successfully meeting the challenges of our time. LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER The weeks leading up to the holidays can be some of the most fun. Here in Northern Colorado, we are spoiled with an incredible array of events and activities—so many, in fact, that there are too many to list! That's why North Forty News will share a curated list of some of the most popular events in our community each week leading up to Christmas and New Year's. You'll find details and resources to help you make the most of this festive season. Whether it's a holiday market, a local performance, or one of the many dazzling light displays, we're here to keep you informed and inspired. Speaking of light displays, have you ever wondered how much electricity we use to brighten our homes for the holidays? I have. As it turns out, in the United States, Christmas lights burn through an estimated 6.6 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually—enough to power over 14 million refrigerators for an entire year! That's quite a glow-up for the season of cheer. This brings me to a story we're featuring on the front page this week: One of my favorite light displays in Northern Colorado is at Colorado Youth Outdoors. Their commitment to sustainability makes it even more special—they're taking carbon out of the atmosphere with a cleaner connection. It's a shining example of how we can celebrate while being mindful of the world we live in. To see that story and more -- North Forty News makes it easy to pull up our weekly e-edition. You can subscribe for free, and we'll email it each week. If email isn't your thing, now you can pull up North Forty News at the same link each week: northfortynews.com/this-week. Bookmark it! As always, I encourage you to explore our online event calendar. From holiday markets to live music performances, there’s so much happening in our area to help you make the most of this festive season. So, bundle up, grab your hot cocoa, and dive into the holiday spirit. Northern Colorado has so much to offer this time of year, and North Forty News is here to help you experience it all. Happy Holidays, Your support helps us provide coverage of Northern Colorado communities. Support North Forty News in the following ways: Advertise - ads@northfortynews.com Donate - northfortynews.com/donate-now READ - northfortynews.com/this-week Blaine Howerton Illuminating the Season with Holiday Cheer The Poudre Park Community Center is on the brink of a remarkable transformation, thanks to an ARPA grant awarded by Larimer County. For those who cherish the history of the Poudre Canyon, the Poudre Park Community Center has a rich legacy. Originally constructed in 1938 as a one-room schoolhouse for the Poudre School District (PSD), it transitioned to a community center in 1966 when PSD gifted the building to the Poudre Park Community Club, now the LPCA—a registered 501(c)(3). The renovation has been nothing short of transformative. The updates include: •Complete electrical, heating, and plumbing overhauls, including the addition of a second bathroom. •Improved insulation, new doors and windows, and a redesigned ADA-accessible front entrance. • A catering-style kitchen perfect for hosting events and gatherings. They anticipate receiving our Certificate of Occupancy by the end of the year, allowing them to open their doors to residents and outside rentals starting in January 2025. With its updated facilities, the Community Center will be an ideal venue for meetings, retreats, and small gatherings beginning February 2025. REBUILDING COMMUNITY IN 2025 After years of adversity from fires, floods, and the pandemic, their focus for 2025 is on rebuilding community connections. The closure of the Community Center during the pandemic took a toll on Poudre Park's resources and engagement. To support the final stages of the renovation, they've launched a Legacy Brick Campaign to fund additional needs not covered by the grant, such as new tables, chairs, and technology. https://www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/lpca Poudre Park Community Center Nears Completion of Exciting Renovations NorthFortyNews.com (Photo by Gardens on Spring Creek)Connect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com Week of December 2, 2024 | 3 LET YOUR HOLIDAY SPIRIT SHINE AT Select Nights Dec. 5–29 EVENT DATES: Tickets and more information at: FCGOV.COM/LIGHTS Making Sustainable Changes Tessie Walters | The Gardens on Spring Creek As inhabitants of the post-industrial world, it is our responsibility to critically examine our impact on the Earth and its resources. Opportunities to practice reciprocity and environmental responsibility exist in every facet of our lives, from the clothes we wear and the food we eat to the way we travel and, importantly, the gardens we tend. But common practice isn’t always best practice. Thankfully, we are witnessing a revolution in the American landscape. A lot has changed for the better since I began my career, but we still have much work to do. It’s imperative that we embrace our role as stewards of the natural world and leave behind the domineering, destructive practices of the past. Let’s explore some sustainable practices that can benefit the environment, starting in our own backyards. For those of us living along Colorado’s arid Front Range, water is a precious resource that will only become scarcer with time. A great first step is to critically assess your landscape and consider how to reduce water use and runoff. Contact your local water provider for data on your water consumption history and then do a little math. For example, a 200-square-foot lawn of Kentucky bluegrass requires roughly 4,800 gallons of water per year—enough to fill a swimming pool a quarter of the way. Maybe it’s time to consider reducing your lawn size or switching to a more water-efficient type of turf. While functional turf has its place in our built environment, there are many ways we can modify our lawns to lessen their impact on limited resources. It ultimately comes down to finding a balance between environmental responsibility and personal preference. Is your landscape made up of plants suited for our climate? Are you incorporating native plants to support local wildlife, including pollinators? Are you watering during the coolest parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to reduce evaporation? Consider using drip irrigation or soaker hoses to minimize water waste. If you have an automated irrigation system, use a smart controller that skips watering when it rains. Many common landscaping materials can also be counterproductive. For example, landscape fabric or plastic tarping can prevent water from seeping into the ground and increase topsoil loss. These barriers also prevent organic matter from enriching the soil below. Instead, opt for climate- adapted plants, and leave less open space for weeds. Allow natural debris, like fallen leaves, to decompose, enriching the soil and promoting biodiversity. It’s natural to want a garden that feels like home, but this often leads to the use of plants that are not suited for our climate, such as rhododendrons, azaleas, or wisteria. By making intentional choices in our gardens, we can create spaces that reflect our personal style while also aligning with the needs of our environment. Sustainable gardening is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about cultivating a healthier relationship with the natural world that benefits us and the planet. 484-8588 484-8588 LaPorte Email wps@waynespumpservice.com visit www.waynespumpservice.com Locally owned and operated for over 40 years “GET THE JOB DONE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME” “GET THE JOB DONE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME” Member Colorado Water Well Contractors Association LIC. # 1292 BONDED (File Photo)Connect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com 4| Week of December 2, 2024 COVER STORY NOCO WINTER WONDERLAND DRIVE- THROUGH DISPLAY WITH 500,000 LIGHTS OPENED NOVEMBER 28 Each holiday season, Colorado Youth Outdoors (CYO) presents NoCo Winter Wonderland drive-through display. But this year, instead of filling up noisy generators nightly with 30 gallons of gasoline (approximately 750 gallons over the 25-night run), CYO will go gasoline- free. That’s because area businesses teamed up to convert CYO’s magical one-mile- long route to quiet, environmentally friendly, all-electric power. The 15-minute tour features 19 light displays with 500,000 lights – that's one million if you count the reflections off CYO’s 12 ponds. It runs from 5 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., from November 28 through December 31, 2024, at 4927 County Road 36, near the intersection of Larimer County Road 5 and Kechter Road in Fort Collins. Tickets are available from coloradoyo.org/events/ for $25 per vehicle. “Flipping a switch to run NoCo Winter Wonderland is a thrill! It’s a huge upgrade for Colorado Youth Outdoors,” explains CYO Northeast Executive Director Luke Brough. “But the impact of installing electricity goes beyond lighting one event. We’ve already begun running fountains in some of our ponds; the moving water helps fish health tremendously.” The annual display, which raises operating funds for CYO, comes to life on the nonprofit’s 220-acre property. The infrastructure cost necessary to convert to electricity was approximately $200,000. However, thanks to CYO’s partnerships, the generosity of area businesses, and over 100 volunteers who donated around 600 hours, CYO only paid $41,000 to make the switch. Luke added, “Volunteers make our annual 220-acre holiday display possible, and everyone at CYO – plus the families we serve – offers a heartfelt word of thanks and invites the public to experience the magic of NoCo Winter Wonderland.” To learn more about what was involved in CYO going green, read this: https://www.coloradoyo.org/news/ colorado-youth-outdoors-winter- wonderland-goes-green ABOUT COLORADO YOUTH OUTDOORS Colorado Youth Outdoors is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created in 2001. CYO’s mission is to build relationships and bring kids and parents closer through traditional outdoor recreation. To help accomplish this, CYO integrates the words Participate, Appreciate, Communicate, and Dedicate into their recreation curriculum, which they call the PACD Model. The nonprofit works to incorporate PACD into all activities, which include spin and fly fishing, archery, camping, shooting sports, and nature play. coloradoyo.org Nonprofit Colorado Youth Outdoors’ Winter Wonderland Goes Green COLORADO YOUTH OUTDOORS | coloradoyo.org Volunteers from Civitas filling in the dirt after an underground electrical box was installed at Colorado Youth Outdoors. (Photo Courtesy Colorado Youth Outdoors) A family ooohs and ahhs as they drive through Colorado Youth Outdoors Winter Wonderland. (Photo Courtesy Colorado Youth Outdoors)When you walk into Jim’s Wings in Fort Collins, the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. Located just off Shields Street, this local staple has been serving up some of the best wings in town for decades, and I decided it was high time I revisited the spot that many CSU students and locals alike rave about. I went all in on the wings, sampling Lemon Pepper, Hot, Yakitori, and Teriyaki flavors, along with a side of fried pickles. The bill came to $34.58—reasonable, considering the variety and quality. And, notably, Jim's Wings doesn't charge you for celery and carrot sticks like other wing establishments I have been to. Here's the rundown of my culinary adventure. THE WINGS The Lemon Pepper wings were an excellent start. The seasoning was light but vibrant, with a perfect balance of citrusy tang and peppery kick. The crispiness of the skin stood out—it was crunchy without being greasy, which is always a win. Next came the Hot wings, a classic choice for any wing enthusiast. These packed a solid punch of heat without overwhelming the palate. They had that signature Buffalo-style tang that keeps you reaching for just one more. The Yakitori wings were a pleasant surprise. With a sweet and smoky glaze reminiscent of Japanese street food, these wings were a standout for their unique flavor profile. The sauce caramelized beautifully, creating a sticky, umami- packed experience that was downright addictive. Finally, the Teriyaki wings rounded out the meal. They were sweet, savory, and had just the right amount of sauce. While they weren’t as bold as the Yakitori, they delivered that familiar comfort Teriyaki fans expect. THE FRIED PICKLES As a side, the fried pickles stole the show. The pickle spears (dipped in batter) were golden and crispy, clinging tightly to the tangy spears without falling apart. Served piping hot, they paired perfectly with the house-made ranch dressing. They were so good that I briefly considered making a meal of just these and a cold drink next time. THE VERDICT Jim’s Wings is a Fort Collins icon for a reason. With its unpretentious vibe, fast service, and consistently delicious food, it’s easy to see why this place has such a loyal following. The wings are juicy, the flavors are bold, and there’s a little something for everyone. If you’re in the mood for a flavorful, satisfying meal that won’t break the bank, Jim’s Wings should be your next stop. Just be sure to bring your appetite. For more information visit jimswings.com. NorthFortyNews.com SceneNoco.com Jim’s Wings: A Flavorful Dive Into Fort Collins’ Favorite Wings BLAINE HOWERTON | NorthFortyNews.com Jim's Wings Terikayi Wings (Photo by Blaine Howerton) A J i m ' s W i n g s SCENE PICK 2024 Jim's Wings Fried Pickles (Photo by Blaine Howerton) Jim's Wings Carrots and Celery Jim's Wings restaurantConnect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com 6| Week of December 2, 2024 CITY BUZZ 1205 W. Elizabeth Campus West 493-1103 As the holiday season approaches, Northern Colorado transforms into a hub of festive cheer with events catering to locals and visitors alike. From unique craft fairs to dazzling light shows, this weekend (December 7–8) offers a lineup that promises to warm hearts and spread joy. THIRD ANNUAL WINTER CRAFT FAIR IN BERTHOUD Artisan enthusiasts and holiday shoppers won’t want to miss the Winter Craft Fair at the Berthoud Recreation Center, 1000 N. Berthoud Parkway. On Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., over 50 local artisans will showcase handcrafted goods, making it the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts. “This craft fair is a celebration of local talent,” said organizer Kelly Hansen. “It’s more than shopping—it’s about supporting your neighbors and discovering the beauty of Northern Colorado craftsmanship.” For more information, visit berthoud.org. GARDEN OF LIGHTS AT THE GARDENS ON SPRING CREEK IN FORT COLLINS Experience a whimsical half-mile loop adorned with hundreds of thousands of LED lights at The Gardens on Spring Creek. Open Thursday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., this event features visits with Santa, live entertainment, and warm beverages. “The Garden of Lights is a magical experience,” said visitor Laura Martinez. “It’s a beautiful way to embrace the holiday spirit.” For more details, visitfcgov.com/gardens. NOCO WINTER WONDERLAND AT COLORADO YOUTH OUTDOORS IN FORT COLLINS Since 2020, Colorado Youth Outdoors has hosted the NoCo Winter Wonderland, a drive-thru holiday light show featuring wildlife-themed sculptures and twinkling lights. This year, the event runs from November 28 through December 31, from 5 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. The one-mile drive offers a festive experience for the whole family, with proceeds supporting the nonprofit's mission to build relationships through outdoor recreation. “NoCo Winter Wonderland brings the community together in a unique way,” said CYO Executive Director Luke Brough. “It's a festive tradition that supports local nonprofits and unites our community.” For tickets and more information, visit nocowinterwonderland.com. SANTA'S WORKSHOP AT CENTERRA IN LOVELAND Santa and his elves make their way to the Loveland Visitor Center and Chamber (5400 Stone Creek Circle) on Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Families can enjoy free photos with Santa, hot cocoa at Mrs. Claus Bakery, and an interactive letter-writing station. A sensory-friendly hour (11 a.m. to noon) offers a welcoming environment for children with sensory sensitivities, made possible through a partnership with Autism Moms of NoCo. “Creating magical moments for families, regardless of their needs, is our goal,” said event coordinator Lisa Morton. “This is a day for everyone to experience the holiday magic.” Additional details can be found at centerra.com. SNOWMAN FESTIVAL IN ESTES PARK Estes Park transforms into a winter wonderland with its Snowman Festival on Saturday and Sunday. Highlights include a Snowman Scavenger Hunt, a holiday market featuring local vendors, and appearances by live reindeer and princesses. The festivities culminate each evening at 5 p.m. with the Nightly Light Show Spectacular featuring Colorado's only Pixel Pine tree. “Estes Park always delivers during the holidays,” said local resident Jordan Simmons. “The Pixel Pine is a must-see—it’s truly magical.” For more information, visitestespark.com. FESTIVAL OF TREES IN GREELEY Running through December 7, the Festival of Trees at the Union Colony Civic Center in Greeley showcases creatively decorated trees, carriage rides, and Santa meet-and-greets. A family tradition for many, this event highlights the spirit of community through its enchanting displays. “The Festival of Trees is a Greeley gem,” said visitor Sarah Jennings. “It’s a wonderful way to kick off the holidays with family.” Details are available at greeleygov.com/ activities. HOLIDAY LIGHTS TROLLEY TOUR IN LONGMONT Although starting Monday, December 9, the Brewhop Trolley's Holiday Lights Tour deserves a mention for those planning ahead. Running through December 23, this festive trolley ride highlights Longmont's most dazzling light displays. Advanced ticket purchases are required. “The Brewhop Trolley offers a fun, nostalgic way to see the best holiday lights in Longmont,” said organizer Mike Reynolds. More information can be found at brewhop. ticketleap.com/9th-annual-brewhop-trolley- holiday-lights-tour. These events reflect the heart of Northern Colorado—community, creativity, and celebration. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, visiting with Santa, or marveling at lights, this weekend offers something for everyone. PLAN YOUR WEEKEND For more details about these and other local events, visit calendar.northfortynews.com. NORTHERN COLORADO LIGHTS UP THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT WITH FESTIVE WEEKEND EVENTS BLAINE HOWERTON | NorthFortyNews.com YACHTYGOTBACK 12/13RUSHARCHIVESRUSHARCHIVES 12/27 10TOTHECHEST10TOTHECHEST 1/09 12/31 GIMMEGIMMEDISCOGIMMEGIMMEDISCO 12/28 12/14MELVINSEALS&JGB SILVERADA SODOKU SOLUTION CHECK OUT THE PUZZLE ON PAGE 7. prairiesagecreative.com 307.214.4360 prairiesagecreative@gmail.com Graphic Design · Websites · Marketing Social Media · Illustration Bring your ideas to life. /PrairieSageCreative @mollyboxart Specializing in small businesses and nonprofits Gardens on Spring Creek Garden of Lights (Photo courtesy Gardens on Spring Creek)Connect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com Week of December 2, 2024 | 7 CITY BUZZ SEE THE SOLUTION ON PAGE 6 Northern Colorado’s Farm Supply Store 225 N. W. Frontage Road, Fort Collins CO 970-221-5300 • pvcoop.com Contracts for propane are out. Call the office for details. Step into a world of wonder as LuneAseas presents a mesmerizing blend of storytelling, original music, shadow puppetry, and stunning movement. This unique performance will transport you to the Golden Age of Denver's Five Points, often called "the Harlem of the West," where history and artistry collide in a celebration of Colorado's rich African American heritage. Be enchanted as the Tenia Nelson Band, accompanied by the Boulder Philharmonic, brings Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's 1960 jazz arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite to life. Their performance weaves together timeless music with tales of iconic figures and places that shaped Colorado’s cultural history. Award-winning musicians, dancers, and storytellers will captivate audiences with their vibrant reimagining of these historic legends. Don't miss this extraordinary journey into the heart of Colorado's past, told through an unforgettable tapestry of art and performance. This year’s performances, directed by Five Points native Larea Edwards, will take place at The Savoy Denver (2700 Arapahoe St.) from December 20-22, with preview nights in Fort Collins and Longmont on December 12 and 13. More information: luneaseas.org. EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF COLORADO'S HOLIDAY LEGENDS WITH LUNEASEAS: BLAINE HOWERTON | NorthFortyNews.com Public Notice of Budget Hearing Red Feather Mountain Library District HEARING ON THE PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET Dec. 11, 2024, 10:15AM at the Red Feather Lakes Community Library, 71 Firehouse Lane, Red Feather Lakes, CO. 970-881-2664 or help@redfeatherlibrary.org Poudre River Trail under construction (Photo provided by City of Fort Collins) 5 points nutcracker (Photo by Luneaseas)Friday, December 6 Airness, Bas Bleu Theater: 401 Pine St, Fort Collins, CO 80524, 7:30 pm All Day Happy Hour @ The Passenger, The Passenger Restaurant , 5 pm -8:30 pm Brother Ali + Ant, Aggie Theatre , 8 pm Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training, 11 am -4:15 pm Christmas Ornaments // Make & Take Workshop - FAMILY FRIENDLY, Board and Brush Fort Collins, 5 pm -8 pm Comedy Brewers at The Lyric, The Lyric , 8 pm Fall Dance Capstone Concert , 1400 Remington St, 7:30 pm -9:30 pm Festival of Trees, Union Colony Civic Center , 3 pm -8 pm First Friday Featuring Artist, Ian Reid, The Lyric, 6 pm -9 pm First Friday With The Comedy Brewers At The Lyric, The Lyric, 8 pm -9:30 pm Free Live Jazz for First Friday Art Walk, Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures , 6 pm -7:30 pm free live music! starlight and pine performing, The Passenger Restaurant , 6 pm -8:30 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek , 5 pm -9 pm Holly Jolly Hideaway, FoCo Cafe, 6 pm -10 pm Jackie Fabulous, The Comedy Fort , 7 pm Jackie Fabulous, The Comedy Fort, 9:30 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors , 5 pm -8:45 pm Opening of Ringing in the New: New Year Traditions Around the World, Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures , 5 pm -8 pm Pottery Sale @ Smokestack Artists and Students, Smokestack Pottery, 5 pm -9 pm Santa's Sip &Shop Nights, The Windsor Gardener , 5 pm -7 pm "The Most Wonderful CRIME of the Year" - Murder Mystery Dinner, Desiderata Ranch, 5 pm -8 pm Wind Symphony Concert: Latin American Chronicles , 1400 Remington St, 7:30 pm -9:30 pm Wine Social Club Tasting & Tour, The OBC Wine Project , 5 pm -8 pm Saturday, December 7 9th Anniversary Party, Jessup Farm Barrel House, 4 pm -8 pm Airness, Bas Bleu Theater: 401 Pine St, Fort Collins, CO 80524, 7:30 pm All Day Happy Hour @ The Passenger, The Passenger Restaurant , 5 pm -8:30 pm Boughs & Brews 2, The Windsor Gardener, 10:30 am -12 pm Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training , 11 am -4:15 pm Christmas Ornaments // Make & Take Workshop - FAMILY FRIENDLY, Board and Brush Fort Collins , 10 am -1 pm Contra Dancing!, Fort Collins Masonic Temple , 6:15 pm -10 pm Curci and Friends Christmas Party , The Coast, 7 pm December Makers Market, Baldwin Hardwoods, 10 am -2 pm Fall Dance Capstone Concert , 1400 Remington St , 7:30 pm -9:30 pm Felonius Smith Trio - Historic Blues, Purpose Brewing and Cellars , 4 pm -7 pm Festival of Trees, Union Colony Civic Center , 1 pm -5 pm Fort Collins Trolley Holiday Open House, Fort Collins Municipal Trolley , 10 am -12 pm Free Museum Admission Day , Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 11 am -5 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek , 5 pm -9 pm Holiday DIY - Pick Your Project Workshop!, Board and Brush Fort Collins , 6:30 pm -9:30 pm Holly Jolly Hideaway, FoCo Cafe , 6 pm -10 pm Homesteader's Holiday, Centennial Village Museum, 10 am -4 pm Jackie Fabulous, The Comedy Fort , 6 & 8:30 pm Johnnyswim, Aggie Theatre, 7 pm Maxline Brewing Holiday Market, Maxline Brewing , 12 pm -5 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors, 5 pm -8:45 pm Pottery Sale @ Smokestack Artists and Students, Smokestack Pottery , 10 am -5 pm Pottery Sale @ Smokestack Resident artists and Student Sale, Smokestack Pottery, 10 am -5 pm Ringing in the New: New Year Traditions Around the World, Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, all day Santa at The Elizabeth Hotel, The Elizabeth Hotel , 11 am -2 pm Santa's Workshop , Loveland Chamber of Commerce , 11 am -3 pm Trauma-Informed - Ground and Air Limitless Yoga Practitioner and Teacher Training, Live Beyond Limit, all day Wellington Holiday Magic, Downtown Wellington, 3:30 pm Winter Craft Fair, Berthoud Recreation Center, 9 am -3 pm Winterfest, Downtown Greeley, 4:30 pm -7:30 pm Sunday, December 8 Airness, Bas Bleu Theater: 401 Pine St, Fort Collins, CO 80524 , 2:30 pm Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training , 11 am -4:15 pm Dickens Holiday Drag Nite!, Dickens Opera House, 6:30 pm -8:30 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek , 5 pm -9 pm Heated Vinyasa: Free Flow Yoga, 2519 S Shields St Studio 1A (Next to Tokyo Joe's) , 9:30 am -10:45 am Homesteader's Holiday, Centennial Village Museum, 10 am -4 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors , 5 pm -8:45 pm Paint & Pints Cookie Platter Painting, High Hops Brewery, 10:30 am -12 pm Winterfest Skating Exhibition, Edora Pool Ice Center Epic, 2 pm -6 pm Monday, December 9 Boombox Bingo, 2454 West, 5 pm Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training, 11 am -4:15 pm North 40 Pub Runners: Monday Night Runs, Sparge Brewing, 6 pm -8 pm Open Mic Night!, The Lyric , 5 pm Xtreme Music BINGO, Sparge Brewing, 6 pm -7 pm Tuesday, December 10 Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training , 11 am -4:15 pm Karaoke Club, The Lyric, 6 pm Knitting and Crocheting Club, Slurpz Restaurant, 6 pm -8 pm KRFC Colorado Gives Day at The Elizabeth Hotel, The Elizabeth Hotel, 11 am -10:30 pm Sparge Trivia Night, Sparge Brewing, 6 pm -8 pm Wellington Board of Trustees - Regular Meeting, Leeper Community Center, 6:30 pm Wednesday, December 11 All Day Happy Hour @ The Passenger, The Passenger Restaurant , 5 pm -8:30 pm Billy Goose, Brothers Griffin, The Phantom Hallows, 830 North - Live Music, Bowling, Arcade , 7 pm Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training, 11 am -4:15 pm Family Game Night, Slurpz Restaurant, 5 pm -7 pm Holiday Wreath Workshop, desk chair workspace , 6 pm -8 pm Residency Concert with Amoeba Swing, Wolverine Farm Publick House , 6 pm Thursday, December 12 All Day Happy Hour @ The Passenger, The Passenger Restaurant, 5 pm -8:30 pm Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training, 11 am -4:15 pm Consider the Source Live at 830 North , 830 North , 8 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek , 5 pm -9 pm Jolly Moxie, Wonderbound, 7:30 pm -10 pm Me Oh My Craft Nights, Me Oh My Coffee and Pie, 5 pm -8 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors , 5 pm -8:45 pm The 5 Points Nutcracker: Sweet Divertissements, Dicken's Opera House Longmont, 7 pm -8:30 pm VKTM, Aggie Theatre, 8 pm Friday, December 13 Airness, Bas Bleu Theater: 401 Pine St, Fort Collins, CO 80524, 7:30 pm All Day Happy Hour @ The Passenger, The Passenger Restaurant , 5 pm -8:30 pm Beth Stelling, The Comedy Fort, 7 & 9:30 pm Cactus Cat, Mystee, The Athletics - Holiday Show, The Coast , 7 pm Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training, 11 am -4:15 pm Clara and the Nutcracker, The Lincoln Center , all day Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek, 5 pm -9 pm Holiday DIY - Pick Your Project Workshop!, Board and Brush Fort Collins, 6:30 pm -9:30 pm Holly Jolly Hideaway, FoCo Cafe, 6 pm -10 pm Jingle Bell Jam, Family FunPlex, 5 pm -8 pm Jolly Moxie, Wonderbound , 7:30 pm -10 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors, 5 pm -8:45 pm Rush Archives, Aggie Theatre, 5 pm Santa's Sip &Shop Nights, The Windsor Gardener, 5 pm -7 pm Scholarship Fundraiser Party at the Apothecary, Equinox Center of Herbal Studies , 5 pm -9 pm School of rock day 1, Aggie Theatre, 7 pm -10 pm Stories on Stage presents "Making Merry", Arvada Center , 7:30 pm The 5 Points Nutcracker: Sweet Divertissements, Fort Collins Center For Creativity, 7 & 8 pm Winter Ice Show, Greeley Ice Haus, 6:30 pm -8:30 pm Winter WonDairy Tours at Morning Fresh Dairy, Morning Fresh Dairy and Howling Cow Cafe, all day Saturday, December 14 Airness, Bas Bleu Theater: 401 Pine St, Fort Collins, CO 80524, 7:30 pm All Day Happy Hour @ The Passenger, The Passenger Restaurant , 5 pm -8:30 pm Beth Stelling, The Comedy Fort , 6 & 8:30 pm Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training, 11 am -4:15 pm Experience the Denver Christkindlmarket Tradition, Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 9 am -5 pm **FREE** Karaoke Night 🎙🎙, 2454 West - Live Music, Bowling, and Arcade, 7 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek, 5 pm -9 pm Holiday DIY - Pick Your Project Workshop!, Board and Brush Fort Collins, 6:30 pm -9:30 pm Holiday Open House & Boutique at The 1879 Avery House, The 1879 Avery House , 11 am -2 pm Holiday Psychic Medium Reading, High Hops Brewery , 10:30 am -12 pm Holly Jolly Hideaway, FoCo Cafe, 6 pm -10 pm Jesus Freak: An Ex-vangelical Burlesque Show, Lion's Lair , 9:30 pm Jolly Moxie, Wonderbound , 7:30 pm -10 pm Melvin Seals & JGB, Aggie Theatre, 7 pm Mini Project Workshop // FAMILY FRIENDLY (6yr +), Board and Brush Fort Collins , 10 am -12 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors, 5 pm -8:45 pm RMRP's Winter Wonderland Open House, Rocky Mountain Raptor Program, 12 pm -3 pm Salt Road Brewing Holiday Market, Salt Road Brewing, LLC , 12 pm -5 pm Santa at The Elizabeth Hotel, The Elizabeth Hotel, 11 am -2 pm Santa Live at the Mishawaka, The Mishawaka, 9 am -9 am Santapalooza Takes Denver on December 14!, Con Safros, 2 am Stories on Stage presents "Making Merry", Arvada Center, 2 pm Taylor Shae Duo, Breckenridge Brewery, 4 pm -6 pm The Greeley Chorale presents "A Shining Christmas", UNC Campus Commons , 7:30 pm Wildlife Hero Training: Reptile and Amphibian Rescue and Handling, Northern Colorado Wildlife Ceter , 3 pm -4 pm Winterfest, Downtown Greeley, 10 am -4 pm WinterFest Makers' Workshop, LINC Library, 10 am -4 pm Winter Ice Show, Greeley Ice Haus, 3 pm -5 pm Sunday, December 15 Airness, Bas Bleu Theater: 401 Pine St, Fort Collins, CO 80524 , 2:30 pm Bugs Don't Bug Me, Northern Colorado Wildlife Ceter, 10 am -11 am Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training , 11 am -4:15 pm Comedy For A Cause: 1945 Foundation Fund, The Comedy Fort, 7 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek , 5 pm -9 pm Calendar.SceneNoco.com Homesteader's Holiday, Centennial Village Museum, 10 am -4 pm, December 8 Soak up the spirit of the season at Centennial Village Museum. Tour historical buildings, make seasonal crafts, enjoy musical entertainment, and pick up great gifts for everyone on your list! We have thousands of events on our online calendar! calendar.scenenoco.com Weekly sneak peekConnect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com Week of December 2, 2024 | 9 Lifestyle l Health l Mental Health l Excercise l Nutrition CROSSWORD SOLUTION CHECK OUT THE CROSSWORD PUZZLE ON PAGE 11. There is a variety of equipment solutions that can keep you in your home safely. At Frontier Access and Mobility, we are experts at solving any mobility need you may have. We also provide walkers, scooters and wheelchairs custom fit for your needs as well as vehicle modifications to carry your mobility device. Frontier Access & Mobility is located in Fort Collins and services the Front Range. We are your local provider of all your mobility solutions and are dedicated to service and support. Visit us at Fronঞeraccess.comCall 970-223-8267 or As you age, mobility can become a big issue that can limit your independence and quality of life. But it doesn’t have to. Independent Life Enjoy an We will come to your home and provide a Complementary Consultaঞon For individuals with mobility impairments, having the right device to get around—whether it’s a walker, manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, or electric scooter—is crucial. However, for many, access to reliable transportation can be a game- changer. Sadly, 3.6 million Americans with travel- limiting disabilities remain homebound because of a lack of resources or mobility solutions. The right vehicle can make all the difference. A wheelchair-accessible vehicle doesn’t just provide transportation—it offers independence, freedom, and the chance to engage in life’s experiences. These vehicles are thoughtfully designed to accommodate various needs, offering innovative solutions for getting out and about. TYPES OF WHEELCHAIR-ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES One of the most popular choices is the lowered- floor minivan, which can feature either a manual or power ramp that deploys from the side or rear. These versatile vehicles are available in two-wheel or all-wheel drive and even hybrid models. They can be driven by the individual with a disability or by a caregiver, providing flexibility for families or individuals. For those needing more space, full-size vans can also be converted for wheelchair accessibility. Meanwhile, full-size trucks and SUVs offer innovative lift platforms that enable users to drive onto the platform, which then positions them in the driver or passenger seat. Other mobility solutions include external equipment, like arms that lift an empty wheelchair into the back of a truck or hitch-mounted platforms that carry mobility devices. YOUR LOCAL SOLUTION: FRONTIER ACCESS & MOBILITY Frontier Access & Mobility, with locations in Fort Collins and Cheyenne, specializes in helping individuals find the perfect mobility solution. Their team offers a wide range of new and pre-owned vehicles to fit various budgets and needs, providing white-glove service from selection to repair. Whether it’s a minivan, SUV, or a unique customization, Frontier Access & Mobility’s extensive inventory ensures everyone can find the right fit. They also provide maintenance and repair services, keeping mobility solutions in excellent working order. TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD FREEDOM Don’t let mobility challenges hold you back. Visit Frontier Access & Mobility to explore a full suite of transportation options. Stop by their Fort Collins or Cheyenne location, call 800-868-7663, or visit FrontierAccess.com to learn more. Northern Colorado is full of opportunities—let Frontier Access & Mobility help you experience them to the fullest. Breaking Barriers: Mobility Solutions for Independence in Northern Colorado NORTH FORTY NEWS | NorthFortyNews.com Photo by Marcus Aurelius (Pexels.com)Next >