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NorthFortyNews.com Powered by Northern Colorado’s Entertainment & Lifestyle Magazine A PREVIEW OF WHAT’S GOING ON IN NORTHERN COLORADO PUMP SAVINGS NORTHERN COLORADO DRIVERS TO ENJOY LOWEST CHRISTMAS GAS PRICES SINCE 2020 See page 4 NORTHERN COLORADO’S WEEKLY INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS Week of December 16, 2024 | Volume 32 | Number 37 new (Photo from Shutterstock.com) Northern Colorado First Responders to Save Lives with Pre-Hospital Whole Blood Transfusions PAGE 9 Plants of the Winter Solstice PAGE 3 Berthoud Fort Collins Man Arrested After Vehicle Theft and Deputy Assault PAGE 10 DIGITAL NORTHFORTYNEWS.COM WEEKEND EDITION (RELEASED EACH FRIDAY) (Photo courtesy the Melting Pot) The Melting Pot: Celebrating 20 Years of Fondue and Community in Fort Collins 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 What Is Wrong With Our Value System, Part 3 PAGE 10Connect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com 2| Week of December 16, 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 Dear Readers, As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey North Forty News has taken over the past twelve months. I am thrilled to share that our website has surpassed an astonishing 3.3 million views! This milestone is a testament to the trust and support you, our readers, have placed in us, and I could not be prouder of what we have achieved together. This year also marked a significant transition for North Forty News as we embraced a digital-only format. While this shift presented its share of challenges, it has proven to be a tremendous success. Our e-edition is now read more widely than any print copy ever was. By going digital, we’ve become more accessible to readers throughout Northern Colorado and beyond. More people are engaging with our stories, insights, and coverage than ever before, which underscores the power of adaptability and innovation. When I took on North Forty News in 2017, I envisioned building a digital platform that could reach the masses. Today, I am proud to say we have realized that vision. Yet, I believe this is only the beginning. As we prepare to step into a new year, our sights are set even higher. In that spirit, I am excited to announce that I’ve been quietly working on a new and improved e-edition since September. This upgraded version will be more user-friendly, visually appealing, and packed with features to enhance your reading experience. It’s set to launch shortly after my return from a long-overdue vacation. Speaking of which, I’ll be taking a week off starting the day after Christmas. It’s hard to believe, but this will be the first time in seven years that North Forty News will take a brief hiatus. As much as I love what I do, a short break will provide a moment to recharge and prepare for an even bigger and better year ahead. I appreciate your understanding and look forward to resuming our work together after this brief pause. Thank you for your unwavering support and for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to an extraordinary 2024 filled with growth, innovation, and continued connection. Wishing you all a joyous holiday season and a fantastic New Year! Warm regards, Publisher, North Forty News Blaine Howerton Reflecting on a Milestone Year and Exciting Changes Ahead 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-weekConnect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com Week of December 16, 2024 | 3 LET YOUR HOLIDAY SPIRIT SHINE AT Select Nights Dec. 5–29 EVENT DATES: Tickets and more information at: FCGOV.COM/LIGHTS Plants of the Winter Solstice Chelsea McLean | The Gardens on Spring Creek Every year, the same phenomenon occurs, and every year, we all seem to be shocked as it plays out. The sun’s angle creeps lower in the sky, and we turn our clocks back. Then, suddenly, night seems to overtake the day before our work is complete. Moving towards the winter solstice always inspires me to grab a blanket and catch up with my bookshelf, and this season, I’ve been exploring cultural rituals and the plants that mark seasonal transitions. Evergreen plants have often held a place of symbolic importance due to their continuity throughout the year. Deciduous trees lend themselves to representative ideas of death and rebirth, but evergreens embody immortality, everlasting life, and adaptation. Think of the most pervasive cultural symbols we have for the wintertime. “The Holly and the Ivy” (both used as holiday decorations dating back to medieval times), yews, mistletoe, and Christmas trees are all plants whose needles and leaves persist throughout the winter. Once upon a time, people used to hang offerings in pine trees to please the gods and ensure the sun would return. Sound familiar? The Yule Log is a concept that I’ve found to have somewhat convoluted origins. More recent traditions have the log burning for twelve days beginning at the winter solstice, with a piece withheld to begin next year’s fire. Going back further into the past, it is likely this practice came from the ancient Celtic or Norse tradition of lighting an entire oak tree on fire on the eve of the solstice. If the fire burned for a full twelve hours, it indicated the household would enjoy the fruits of the coming year. Please do not try this at home. Pomegranates and watermelon may seem out of place during a winter celebration. However, during Yalda in Iran, they are enjoyed as a nod to longer days, the red flesh representing the coming of the dawn, and in honor of Mithra, the ancient goddess of light. Yuzu, a winter citrus fruit, plays a large part in acknowledging Toji, the Japanese festival of the solstice. The fruits are sliced and dropped into bathwater, and it is said that whoever bathes in yuzu-infused water on the longest day of the year will avoid colds for the winter. In a more creative twist, some Prefectures will build a path through a bonfire and encourage visitors to walk the hot coals while asking for health, success, and safety. After completing the feat of strength, yuzu fruits are handed out to the firewalkers. I’ll take the bath, thank you. The most fascinating aspect of rituals moving through time is how the forgotten past is often coded within. Many of the traditions we take for granted are customs that mark ways of life we no longer practice yet leapfrog their way into our present. Nevertheless, the one piece of continuity throughout all time and cultures is the use of plants. Evergreen, deciduous, symbolic, or literal, the choice to elevate our flora during times of transition or collective celebration demonstrates how inseparable we are from the natural world. 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 Mistletoe (Photo from shutterstock.com)Connect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com 4| Week of December 16, 2024 COVER STORY With Christmas just around the corner, Northern Colorado motorists have something to celebrate: the gift of low gas prices. This year, the national average for gasoline is expected to drop to $2.95 per gallon on Christmas Day—the lowest holiday price since 2020, according to GasBuddy, a leading fuel savings platform. After years of soaring prices driven by global economic challenges, a combination of factors has finally brought relief to American drivers. Slower economic growth, higher interest rates from the Federal Reserve, and reduced demand from major oil consumers like China have contributed to a steady decline in fuel prices. "This holiday season is shaping up to be a gift for American drivers," said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. "After an exhausting two years of imbalances caused by Covid and geopolitical tensions, we're finally seeing gas prices return to normal. Whether you're visiting family in the mountains or heading across state lines, your wallet will feel a bit heavier." WHY GAS PRICES ARE FALLING The return to more "normal" fuel prices marks the end of several years of economic instability, which saw inflation and borrowing costs skyrocket. With global demand easing and oil markets stabilizing, drivers in Northern Colorado and across the country can breathe a sigh of relief. TIPS FOR HOLIDAY TRAVELERS For those planning road trips over the holidays, GasBuddy recommends checking prices before hitting the road—especially when crossing state lines. Gas taxes can vary significantly, and tools like the GasBuddy app can help travelers find the cheapest fuel nearby. LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025 GasBuddy is set to release its 2025 Fuel Outlook later this month, offering insights into trends that could impact drivers' wallets in the year ahead. As of now, Northern Colorado residents can enjoy this welcome relief, making holiday travels more affordable and leaving a little extra in their budgets for last-minute gifts. Northern Colorado Drivers to Enjoy Lowest Christmas Gas Prices Since 2020 BLAINE HOWERTON | NorthFortyNews.com (Photo by Erik Mclean, Pexels.com)PO Box 1587 • 4000 Washington Ave. • Wellington CO 80549 info@wellingtontoystorage.com http://wellingtontoystorage.com New Units, Friendly Service NorthFortyNews.com SceneNoco.com For two decades, the Melting Pot has been a beloved destination in the heart of Old Town, Fort Collins, offering more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Known for its interactive dining and warm hospitality, the restaurant has become a staple for celebrations and special occasions. To mark its 20-year milestone, I spoke with Alex LaBracke, who has played a pivotal role in maintaining the restaurant’s legacy, to uncover the secrets behind its enduring success. Be sure to read the ENTIRE article -- we have an exclusive coupon for our readers! From Illinois to Fort Collins: ALEX LABRACKE’S STORY Alex LaBracke’s journey to Fort Collins began in rural Northern Illinois. Annual ski trips to Colorado inspired him to make the state his home, and he moved to Fort Collins as a young adult to attend Colorado State University. Reflecting on his connection to the area, Alex said, “Old Town is a magical place.” His appreciation for the community has fueled his dedication to making the Melting Pot a memorable part of Fort Collins’ dining scene. WHAT MAKES THE MELTING POT UNIQUE? “The Melting Pot is an experience-oriented fondue restaurant,” Alex explained. “It’s known for memorable dining experiences and the genuine service and hospitality our team provides.” Whether it’s a romantic evening with rose petals and candles or a lively birthday celebration with friends, the Melting Pot caters to a wide range of occasions. A LEGACY OF FONDUE AND COMMUNITY The Melting Pot first opened its doors in November 2004, and Alex joined the team in 2011. Over the years, the restaurant has become synonymous with celebrations. Its signature 4-Course Experience has been a menu staple for the entire 20 years, offering guests cheese fondue, fresh salads, an entree course with meats, seafood, and vegetables, and a decadent chocolate fondue for dessert. “Our cheese and chocolate fondues are by far the most popular,” Alex shared. “They’re prepared tableside by our servers and served with endless ‘dippers’ that keep guests coming back for more.” OVERCOMING CHALLENGES IN OLD TOWN Old Town businesses have faced challenges in recent years, but Alex remains optimistic about the area’s appeal. “Old Town is a magical place, and events like the annual Great Plates Restaurant Week help bring people together to experience all the unique dining options we have to offer,” he said. The Melting Pot’s success is also rooted in its commitment to creating a positive work environment. “Happy team members lead directly to happy guests,” Alex emphasized. “We go above and beyond for our team, and they, in turn, do the same for our guests.” CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SUCCESS As the Melting Pot celebrates two decades in Fort Collins, Alex credits its success to focusing on guest experiences and maintaining a team-first approach. “Guests don’t just come here because they’re hungry,” he explained. “They come to treat themselves to a luxurious, indulgent night out to remember.” PLAN YOUR VISIT Ready to experience the magic of the Melting Pot? The restaurant’s hours are as follows: •Monday–Thursday: 5 PM – 10 PM •Friday: 4 PM – 10 PM •Saturday: 3 PM – 10 PM Sunday: 3 PM – 9 PM Visit their website at meltingpot.com/fort-collins-co to make a reservation. Mention this article to receive $10 off when you purchase a 4-course Experience. Join the celebration and discover why the Melting Pot has been cherished in Fort Collins for 20 years and counting! THE MELTING POT: CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF FONDUE AND COMMUNITY IN FORT COLLINS BLAINE HOWERTON | New SCENE (Photo courtesy the Melting Pot) (Photo courtesy the Melting Pot) (Photo courtesy the Melting Pot) (Photo courtesy the Melting Pot)Connect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com 6| Week of December 16, 2024 CITY BUZZ 1205 W. Elizabeth Campus West 493-1103 As we enter the holiday season, the conversation often turns to festive foods and the traditions that make Christmas meals so special. This year, a survey conducted by Fabuwood revealed some surprising favorites that are making their way to Christmas tables across the U.S. Among the many beloved regional dishes, one that stands out is Colorado’s own peach pie— ranked #21 on the list of America’s most popular Christmas dishes. It’s not only a local treat but a dessert that has captured the hearts of people nationwide. COLORADO PEACH PIE: A HOLIDAY CLASSIC Peach pie has been a Colorado favorite for generations, particularly during the winter months when the sweet, tangy fruit is the perfect contrast to the season’s rich, heavy meals. This double-crust classic dessert is known for its juicy, sweet filling, which speaks for itself without any need for intricate designs or decorations. Unlike its fancier counterparts, Colorado’s peach pie keeps it simple but delicious—just the way we like it. The survey results were clear: Americans are leaning toward regional dishes that evoke comfort, nostalgia, and a touch of local flair. In fact, when asked which regional dish they most want on their Christmas table this year, peach pie was right up there alongside other iconic treats, such as New York’s cheesecake and Washington’s apple pie. While many associate pie with summer, when fresh peaches are in abundance, Coloradoans have found a way to incorporate their prized peaches into the holiday season. And it’s easy to see why. Whether served alongside a cup of hot cocoa or as the grand finale of a festive meal, peach pie offers that perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it the ideal holiday dessert. COLORADO’S FOOD CULTURE SHINES In addition to peach pie, another Colorado favorite made the list: popovers, which ranked #91. These light, airy pastries are often served during Christmas brunches, where they pair perfectly with eggs, bacon, and mimosas. The addition of popovers to the national holiday food scene highlights how diverse and vibrant Colorado’s culinary traditions have become. As Moe Soloff of Fabuwood explains, “Christmas is a time to come together over food that tells a story.” And Colorado’s peach pie certainly does just that. It tells a story of the state’s rich agricultural heritage and its ability to bring comfort through simple yet flavorful dishes. WHY CHOOSE PEACH PIE FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS FEAST? If you’re looking to add a little local flavor to your holiday table, consider serving a slice of Colorado’s peach pie. Whether you make it yourself with locally sourced peaches or find it at one of Northern Colorado’s many charming bakeries, this pie is sure to be a hit with your guests. The juicy filling and flaky crust embody the spirit of the season—warm, inviting, and full of tradition. As regional dishes continue to play a significant role in shaping Christmas meals across the U.S., Colorado’s peach pie stands as a testament to the power of simple, heartfelt food that brings people together. It may not be as flashy as some other Christmas dishes, but it has something even more important: a taste that resonates with the heart and soul of the season. So, this Christmas, bring a little bit of Colorado to your table and treat your loved ones to a slice of peach pie. It’s a tradition that’s sure to leave everyone with a sweet memory to cherish for years to come. WHY COLORADO’S PEACH PIE IS AMONG AMERICA’S FAVORITE CHRISTMAS DISHES BLAINE HOWERTON | NorthFortyNews.com 12/27 10TOTHECHEST10TOTHECHEST 12/31 GIMMEGIMMEDISCOGIMMEGIMMEDISCO 1/11 1/10 SWITCHMANSLEEPIN’SWITCHMANSLEEPIN’ 1/09 12/28YACHTYGOTBACKYACHTYGOTBACK THEDROPTINESTHEDROPTINES SILVERADASILVERADA 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 Peach Pie (Photo by Snapwire, Pexels.com) (Photo by Polina Tankilevitch, pexels.com)Connect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com Week of December 16, 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. Renowned singer, songwriter, and performer JJ Grey, along with his band Mofro, will ignite the stage at Denver's Mission Ballroom on Saturday, February 1, 2025, bringing their signature blend of Southern rock, swamp funk, and Memphis soul to the Mile High City. The performance is part of their nationwide tour celebrating the release of Olustee, Grey's first self-produced album in nearly a decade. A Florida native, Grey has captivated audiences for years with his deeply personal music, which often draws on his love for the wild landscapes of his home state. Olustee continues this tradition with songs that evoke themes of redemption, rebirth, and the enduring power of nature. His raspy baritone vocals, paired with evocative lyrics and unforgettable melodies, offer listeners a powerful experience. "The best songs I've ever written, I never wrote," says Grey. "They wrote themselves." This raw, honest approach to songwriting has earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following. As NPR notes, his music blends Southern-fried rock with swamp funk, enriched by his plainspoken lyrics and blue-collar authenticity. Joining Grey and Mofro for the night is Lucero, adding to what promises to be an unforgettable evening of live music. Grey’s latest album, Olustee, features tracks like “Wonderland,” a celebratory anthem, and “Deeper Than Belief,” a soulful reflection on life’s deeper meanings. With this album, Grey continues to push the boundaries of his musical talents, bringing listeners closer to the heart of his Florida roots. In addition to his music, Grey has taken on a new role as a spokesperson for the Live Wildly Foundation’s ‘Join the Movement’ campaign, advocating for the preservation and celebration of Florida’s natural environments. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music, JJ Grey & Mofro's live performance is sure to offer a night filled with passion, energy, and unforgettable music. Get your tickets now and be part of the experience! Event Details: Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025 Time: 7:30 p.m. Venue: Mission Ballroom, 4242 Wynkoop St., Denver, CO Ticket Prices: $54.59 - $237.09 Website: Mission Ballroom Phone: 720-577-6884 JJ GREY & MOFRO BRING SOULFUL SOUTHERN ROCK TO DENVER'S MISSION BALLROOM NEW SCENE | NorthFortyNews.com JJ Grey and Mofro (Photo courtesy JJ Grey) ADVERTISE HERE LOW RATES. GREAT EXPOSURE. Contact Matt 970-541-0149 mdierlam@northfortynews.com The Fort Collins Book Fest, a beloved annual literary event, is set to return February 7-17, 2025, with the theme Open Pages Open Minds / Páginas Abiertas Mentes Abiertas. This year’s festival will spotlight renowned authors Deborah Jackson Taffa and Christine Day, both celebrated for their powerful storytelling and exploration of Indigenous culture, identity, and belonging. A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION Now in its ninth year, the Fort Collins Book Fest offers free events that celebrate Northern Colorado’s literary culture. More than 20 local and regional authors and storytellers will participate in readings, workshops, and discussions across various locations in Fort Collins. The festival’s broad support from organizations like the CSU Department of English, CSU Libraries, and Front Range Community College ensures accessibility for all participants. Deborah Jackson Taffa’s appearance is made possible through the Tour West grant from Creative West and the National Endowment for the Arts. PLAN YOUR VISIT Attendees can find the full schedule, registration details, and author lineup at FoCoBookFest.org. The Fort Collins Book Fest reflects the city’s rich literary and cultural heritage, engaging readers of all ages in meaningful conversations. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate stories that inspire and bring the community together. For more information, contact: Poudre River Public Library District Visit PoudreLibraries.org | (970) 221-6740 FORT COLLINS BOOK FEST 2025: CELEBRATING INDIGENOUS VOICES AND COMMUNITY CONNECTION NEW SCENE | NorthFortyNews.comFriday, December 20 Adam Cayton-Holland, The Comedy Fort , 7 & 9:30 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 Christmas Minis with Your Pets by Furbaby Photography, KK9 Dog Training , 11 am -4:15 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 Jolly Moxie, Wonderbound , 7:30 pm -10 pm Larimer Chorale's A Candlelight Christmas, First Presbyterian Church, 7:30 pm -9:30 pm Merry and Bright: Color and Stripe, Lincoln Center , 1 pm -6 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors, 5 pm -8:45 pm Northern Colorado Wildlife Center Holiday Open House , Northern Colorado Wildlife Center, 4 pm -7 pm Team Skinny Guano w/ Deejay Kosmo, Oscify, The Coast , 7 pm The 5 Points Nutcracker: A Holiday Jazz Experience, The Savoy Denver, 7 pm -9 pm Saturday, December 21 Adam Cayton-Holland, The Comedy Fort, 6 & 8:30 pm Airness, Bas Bleu Theater: 401 Pine St, Fort Collins, CO 80524 , 7:30 pm All About Microsoft Copilot, Old Town Library, 1 pm -2:30 pm All Day Happy Hour @ The Passenger, The Passenger Restaurant, 5 pm -8:30 pm A Very Merry Swiftmas - Taylor Swift Dance Party, Odde's Music Grill , 6 pm -9 pm Bach Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248, First United Methodist Church, 7 pm Breckenridge Brewing Holiday Market, SweetWater Brewing Company, 12 pm -5 pm Fort Collins Santa Slay Christmas Crawl, The Exchange , 1 pm -5 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek , 5 pm -9 pm Guacamole Lightswitch w/ Joe Suburb, The Upstairs Basement, The Coast , 7 pm Holiday DIY - Pick Your Project Workshop!, Board and Brush Fort Collins, 10 am & 6:30 pm Holly Jolly Hideaway, FoCo Cafe , 6 pm -10 pm Jolly Moxie, Wonderbound, 7:30 pm -10 pm Kenzi's Causes Toy Shop, Northside Aztlan Community Center , 9 am -11 am Larimer Chorale's A Candlelight Christmas, First Presbyterian Church, 2 & 7:30 pm Living Nativity, Mountain View Presbyterian Church, 3 pm -5 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors, 5 pm -8:45 pm Paint Your Own Yule Dragon Night at Legends a Meadery, 246 Basher Dr, 3 pm -5 pm Santa at Chipper's Lanes Horsetooth , Chippers Lanes , all day Santa at The Elizabeth Hotel, The Elizabeth Hotel, 11 am -2 pm Skate With Santa, Greeley Ice Haus, 12 pm -1:30 pm The 5 Points Nutcracker: A Holiday Jazz Experience, The Savoy Denver, 7 pm -9 pm Sunday, December 22 3D Print/Makerspace Open Hours, Old Town Library, 1 pm -4 pm Airness, Bas Bleu Theater: 401 Pine St, Fort Collins, CO 80524, 2:30 pm Bach Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248, Parsons Theatre, 1 pm Bill DeMarco/Holiday Celebration and Music/for The Vegetable Connection , Avogadro's Number, 5 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 Jolly Moxie, Wonderbound, 2 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors, 5 pm -8:45 pm Pajama Party DIY workshop! Family Friendly ages 6+ BRING THE KIDS OR JUST ADULTS!, Board and Brush Fort Collins, 2 pm -5 pm The 5 Points Nutcracker: A Holiday Jazz Experience, The Savoy Denver , 7 pm -9 pm Wildlife Watch and Clean Up at North Shields Ponds, North Shields Ponds, 11 am -12 pm Monday, December 23 Boombox Bingo, 2454 West, 5 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek , 5 pm -9 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors , 5 pm -8:45 pm Northern Colorado Film Network Monthly Meetup, The Lyric, 7 pm -9 pm Open Mic at The Lyric, The Lyric , 6 pm Open Mic Night!, The Lyric, 5 pm Xtreme Music BINGO, Sparge Brewing, 6 pm -7 pm Tuesday, December 24 Karaoke Club, The Lyric, 6 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors, 5 pm -8:45 pm Wednesday, December 25 NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors , 5 pm -8:45 pm Thursday, December 26 All Day Happy Hour @ The Passenger, The Passenger Restaurant, 5 pm -8:30 pm **FREE** Karaoke Night 🎙🎙, 2454 West - Live Music, Bowling, and Arcade, 7:30 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek, 5 pm -9 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 Friday, December 27 All Day Happy Hour @ The Passenger, The Passenger Restaurant, 5 pm -8:30 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek , 5 pm -9 pm Hardcore for The Holidays: Toy Drive, Aggie Theatre, 8 pm Mad Dog Blues Records Their Ninth Album in Front of a Live Studio Audience, The End Lafayette, 7:30 pm -9 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors, 5 pm -8:45 pm Post Holiday De-Stress & DIY Workshops, Board and Brush Fort Collins , 6:30 pm -9:30 pm Saturday, December 28 Free Live Music with David Tilmon!, The Passenger Restaurant, 5 pm -8 pm Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek, 5 pm -9 pm Heavy Gus, Elke, The Coast, 7 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors , 5 pm -8:45 pm Post Holiday De-Stress & DIY Workshops, Board and Brush Fort Collins, 10 am -1 pm Wiji Moma, Stephen Lear Band, Splintered Autumn, 100 Nickel, 8:30 pm Yachty Got Back, Aggie Theatre, 5 pm -7 pm Sunday, December 29 Garden of Lights, Gardens on Spring Creek , 5 pm -9 pm Karaoke Night 🎙, 830 North , 7 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors, 5 pm -8:45 pm Monday, December 30 Boombox Bingo, 2454 West, 5 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors , 5 pm -8:45 pm North 40 Pub Runners: Monday Night Runs, Sparge Brewing, 6 pm -8 pm Open Mic at The Lyric, The Lyric , 6 pm Open Mic Night!, The Lyric, 5 pm Tejon Street, 830 North , 8 pm Xtreme Music BINGO, Sparge Brewing , 6 pm -7 pm Tuesday, December 31 All That Glitters New Year's Eve Ball, The Agave Room, 8 pm -1 am Gimme Gimme Disco, Aggie Theatre , 7 pm New Years Eve Bash w/ Tumbledown Shack, 830 North , 9 pm New Year's Eve Dinner & Dance Party feat. DJ LL Dope, The Mishawaka , 7:30 pm New Year's Eve: Galactic Disco, The Lyric, 5 pm NoCo Winter Wonderland, Colorado Youth Outdoors , 5 pm -8:45 pm NYE Dance Through the Decades Party, Dicken's Opera House Longmont, 9:30 pm -12:30 am NYE Mystery Menu Blind Tasting Dining Experience!, The Passenger Restaurant , 4:30 & 7 pm Wednesday, January 1 2025 Riverside Renewal **AT RIVERSIDE COLORADO**, Riverside Colorado , 9 am Thursday, January 2 A Special Evening with Artist in Residence, Cary Morin!, The Atrium, 7 pm Hooligan's Holiday - A Tribute to Motley Crue, 2454 West, 8 pm Me Oh My Craft Nights, Me Oh My Coffee and Pie, 5 pm -8 pm Post Holiday De-Stress & DIY Workshops, Board and Brush Fort Collins, 6:30 pm -9:30 pm Story Swap, The Lyric, 6:30 pm Friday, January 3 Velvet Johnson & The Bro Short Get Down, 830 North , 8 pm Winter Wonderland Make & Take // Family Craft, Board and Brush Fort Collins , 5 pm -8 pm Saturday, January 4 Wildlife Hero Training Class: Bird Rescue & Handling , Northern Colorado Wildlife Center, 10 am -11:15 am Winter Wonderland Make & Take // Family Craft, Board and Brush Fort Collins, 10 am -1 pm Sunday, January 5 A Hand Up for Austin Young and Family, Buffalo Rose , 12:30 pm Donny Most - Mostly Swingin' (w/MJO), Dazzle Denver, 4 pm Monday, January 6 Open Mic at The Lyric, The Lyric , 6 pm Wednesday, January 8 Lead Lunch and Learn: Smashing Limiting Beliefs: Unleashing Your Inner Power with Jen "Bee" Blanco, BBB Serving Northern Colorado and Wyoming , 11:30 am -1 pm Merry and Bright: Color and Stripe, The Lincoln Center, 1 pm -6 pm Mystery Menu Blind Tasting Dining Experience!, The Passenger Restaurant, 6:30 pm Calendar.SceneNoco.com Santa at The Elizabeth Hotel, The Elizabeth Hotel, 11 am -2 pm, December 21 Capture the holiday magic with Photos with Santa in The Elizabeth Hotel lobby! Join us on December 21st from 11 AM to 2 PM for a festive photo op in our beautifully decorated space. We have thousands of events on our online calendar! calendar.scenenoco.com Weekly sneak peek Give the gift of Light GIVEANIGHTLIGHT.COM HELP TAKE A CHILD OUT OF THE DARKNESS OF ABUSE Mail gifts to Realities For Children (308 E. County Road 30, Fort Collins, CO 80525) DONATE A LIGHT THROUGH DEC. 31Connect Communities. | NorthFortyNews.com Week of December 16, 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 Northern Colorado residents now have access to a cutting-edge emergency treatment that could dramatically increase survival rates in severe trauma cases. UCHealth and Thompson Valley Emergency Medical Services (TVEMS) have teamed up to launch one of Colorado’s first pre-hospital whole blood programs, covering Larimer and Weld counties. A LIFE-SAVING SHIFT IN EMERGENCY CARE Historically, first responders used IV fluids to stabilize patients in hemorrhagic shock. Now, paramedics from UCHealth and TVEMS can deliver whole blood transfusions directly at the scene of an emergency. Whole blood includes red blood cells, platelets, and plasma—all vital for treating significant blood loss. Studies show this innovative approach can boost survival rates by as much as 60% when administered promptly. “This program is going to save lives,” said Dr. Tyler Vaughn, UCHealth emergency medicine physician and medical director of UCHealth EMS. “Blood products allow our paramedics to save patients who previously wouldn’t have survived to definitive care.” The program spans approximately 3,450 square miles and serves a population of over 550,000. It builds on the success of a similar initiative in Colorado Springs, where more than 30 lives were saved in the first 100 days. A UNIFIED EFFORT ACROSS NORTHERN COLORADO By partnering, UCHealth EMS and TVEMS have equipped supervisor paramedic units with temperature-controlled transport coolers for whole blood. These units are dispatched to emergencies requiring immediate transfusion, giving patients the best chance of survival when time is critical. “Through our partnership with UCHealth, we are ensuring northern Colorado communities receive the most advanced out-of-hospital care,” said TVEMS Chief James Robinson. “We are proud to be among the first EMS agencies in Colorado to bring whole blood to our patients.” THE ROLE OF BLOOD DONORS This lifesaving program relies on volunteer blood donors. UCHealth Garth Englund Blood Center, which supplies the whole blood, is calling for new donors of all blood types to meet increased demand. “This program is only possible because of our selfless donors,” said Anna Johnson, manager of the blood center. “We need even more people to roll up their sleeves and help.” To donate blood at centers in Greeley, Loveland, Fort Collins, or mobile clinics, visit UCHealth Blood Donation or call 970-495-8965. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATIONS Thompson Valley EMS serves Loveland, Berthoud, and surrounding areas, offering advanced life support and community health initiatives. UCHealth, with 33,000 employees and 14 hospitals, leads the Rocky Mountain West in medical innovation, providing unmatched care and community benefits. With this groundbreaking program, Northern Colorado first responders are setting a new standard for trauma care, offering hope to patients when every second counts. Northern Colorado First Responders to Save Lives with Pre-Hospital Whole Blood Transfusions NORTH FORTY NEWS | NorthFortyNews.comNext >