1 out of 5 Broomfield Residents relied on Broomfield FISH last year, and we rely on you.
HELP US FILL THE EMPTY PLATES
Embracing Hope Fundraiser Luncheon
Join us Thursday, October 16th from 11am – 1pm Delta Hotels by Marriott
Scan for tickets, donations, & sponsorship details.
It Won’t Be Like This for Long
It Won’t Be Like This for Long
One day soon that little girl is gonna be All grown up and gone
Yeah, this phase is gonna fly by So, he’s tryin’ to hold on
’Cause it won’t be like this for long
Some songs just hit differently depending on the season of life you’re in. For me, this one by Darius Rucker stopped me in my tracks when I heard it on the radio recently. (Yes, I still listen to the radio—ha!)
If you’re a parent, I’m guessing you can relate to the tension between pushing through exhaustion to give your kids the best life possible—and trying desperately to hang on as they grow and change right before your eyes.
With this August issue, we’re celebrating our kids. Broomfield has long been known as a “bedroom community”—a place where families plant roots, raise children, and become part of something bigger than themselves.
One of my favorite things about this community is how many local businesses and organizations give their time and energy to support and guide our youth. Sarah and I, along with our team, are proud to spotlight four of them this month: Valhallan Esports Training, The Broomfield Swim & Tennis Club, Stang Auto Tech, and the Colorado Conservatory of Dance. We invite you to take a few minutes to learn about the great work they’re doing to help shape the next generation.
Thank you for reading and sharing Broomfield Lifestyle each month. Your feedback, and the support from our amazing partners, are what makes this all possible. It’s truly an honor to serve our community—both in print and online.
And finally, whether you’re in a good place right now or facing a tough season, just remember:
It won’t be like this for long.
With gratitude,
JUSTIN SCHIERKOLK, PUBLISHER @BROOMFIELDLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Justin Schierkolk | justin.schierkolk@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Sarah Schierkolk | sarah.schierkolk@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Walker | julie@wordstellastory.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Sarah Dawn Photography sarah@sdawnphotography.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Walker, Kevin Getz, Danika De Jong
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Flatirons Pro Media, Amanda Tipton Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
inside the issue
Not Just a Game
Valhallan Esports
Where Friendships Begin
How
Building More Than Mechanics
How Stang Auto Tech Is Shaping Futures
Kate and Kylie, once swim teammates, now high school tennis rivals, showcase the lasting bond that began on the poolside. Their friendship, rooted in Broomfield’s Swim and Tennis Club, continues to grow with every match.
1-7: Thank you to those who teed off at the 22nd Annual Broomfield Rotary Police & Fire Golf Tournament to support our local first responders and their families. Photography by Sarah Dawn Photography
The Beer Garden at Broomfield Days is sponsored by the Broomfield Area Chamber and your favorite local breweries! Enjoy craft beer and support local businesses with every cold sip! Find the Best Local Businesses and Nonprofits!
The Broomfield Days Trade Fair is a great way to learn more about the local businesses that drive the thriving and growing economy of the City and County of Broomfield. From real estate to insurance, financial services, automotive, health & wellness and more, chances are, your needs can be met right here in your own backyard!
New Broomfield Area Chamber Members to Support!
The Broomfield Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes the following new members. Please consider these businesses first when the need arises! Blue Oak Family Chiropractic; Cerity Partners; Dawson School Ent Credit Union; Firestorm®; Foss Swim School; Precision Vac; Proforma The Butterfield Company & Revive Within Counseling. For a full list of local businesses, head to broomfieldchamber.com.
Sarah Dawn Photography makes professional headshots effortless for local professionals without the stress of travel or studio scheduling. Instead, Sarah creates a polished, on-site setup right at your home-office or workplace—perfect for individuals or teams. It’s quick, convenient, and designed to fit busy schedules, so everyone looks their best without missing a beat. Great headshots shouldn’t slow you down—and with Sarah, they don’t have to. Book now at Sarah Dawn Photography
Scan to read more
We’re Hiring! Join Our Growing Team!
To the T Plumbing & Heating is expanding! We’re looking for skilled HVAC and Plumbing Installers, Technicians, and dedicated Office Staff to join our award-winning, family-owned team. If you’re hardworking, customer-focused, and ready to build your career with a company that values integrity, quality, and growth, we’d love to hear from you. Come be part of a workplace where your skills and dedication truly make a difference! Office: 720-601-4468 Email: Admin@ tothetplumbingandheating.com
“These guys were great! Super informative and
and
ELECTRICAL EXPERTS AT YOUR SERVICE
Tired of that old Chandelier? We do lighting upgrades or repairs!!
New Appliances or Tools?
Handle the load with an electric panel upgrade! New Car? We install EV chargers! Time to Update? We love remodels!
Quality work, quick response, great communication. Focused on 100% customer satisfaction. All of our service technicians are skilled, licensed, insured, and OSHA certified.
Weekend and evening appointments. 24-Hour Emergency Service. Lifetime Warranty!
Not Just a Game
Valhallan Esports Training teaches teamwork, resilience, and confidence beyond the keyboard
At first, Ben Green didn’t want to go. Crowds made the eleven-year-old from Broomfield uneasy, and meeting new people felt overwhelming, especially without his mom or dad nearby. But after a year at Valhallan Esports Training, things look different.
“They helped me get better at Fortnite and taught me how to switch from an Xbox controller to using a keyboard and mouse,” Ben says, smiling. “And it’s fun to see my friends every week at practice and competitions.”
His mom, Robin Green, has also noticed a change.
“Ben has always been friendly, but he really didn’t like to go into big groups and meet people,” she shares. “Over the last year, he’s been more willing to try something new with people he doesn’t know and start talking with them. We see him encouraging his teammates and friends even more,” she beams.
“And because of the coaching, Ben has gotten much better at the game. I used to beat him at Fortnite, but I don’t stand a chance anymore. Even my husband is lucky to beat him once in a while,” Robin adds, laughing.
Stories like Ben’s show why esports have come out of the shadows and taken center stage at Broomfield’s Valhallan Esports Training. Built to normalize esports, it’s a safe, fun environment that teaches gaming skills alongside character and life lessons. The playing field just happens to be a computer monitor, and your teammate might live across town or in another country.
ARTICLE BY KEVIN GETZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY FLATIRONS PRO MEDIA
Esports team competitions of games like Fortnite, Minecraft, and League of Legends can be played anytime and anywhere, making them incredibly accessible. Often, the only equipment needed is a gaming computer, keyboard, and monitor—things many families already have. And unless someone tips over a chair, the risk of injury is minimal. Still, gaming affects the body in its own way.
“Eye strain from staring at a screen is a significant issue. At last week’s practice, we discussed the need to take a break every twenty minutes to focus on something else twenty feet away for twenty seconds. It might sound simple, but it’s easy to forget during the action,” says Kane, a professional Fortnite coach at Valhallan.
Other healthy topics include giving constructive feedback, regulating emotions (take a deep breath and step away), and preventing a toxic environment (no name-calling or yelling). Coaches quickly correct players who disrupt the group.
Finding the right coaching balance keeps Kane motivated.
“We infuse fun into practice to keep younger players engaged because they lose interest if things get too serious. The older players often take things too seriously, so we remind them it’s still a game—it’s supposed to be fun!”
Owen Wilson, Valhallan’s arena manager, sees how fast students open up.
“I’ve talked to parents who worry their child is too shy or withdrawn to fit in. It’s cool to see how quickly they make friends once they start playing.”
Players wear jerseys with their screen names for competitions. VH Coins are another fun part of the program—awarded for good behavior, being coachable, and showing progress, but never just for winning. Coins can be redeemed for merchandise or experiences.
Many parents don’t realize the bonding opportunities video games offer.
“In traditional sports, young kids can’t compete at their parents’ level. But in esports, they can easily play alongside mom and dad. And parents whose glory days are behind them might rediscover fun through gaming,” explains Owen.
“I’ve talked to parents who worry their child is too shy or withdrawn to fit in. It’s cool to see how quickly they make friends once they start playing.”
Screen time has become a huge part of childhood, so making it positive matters more than ever. Balanced gaming and character-building programs help parents do just that. Whether the goal is to join a high school esports team, earn a college scholarship, or just have fun, the focus stays on healthy growth.
Robin Green is a believer. “Valhallan helps players learn to interact with others in a low-risk environment, be prepared for the online world, and have fun doing so!”
What’s your game?
ARTICLE BY KEVIN GETZ
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH DAWN PHOTOGRAPHY
WHERE FRIENDSHIPS BEGIN
HOW TWO FAMILIES FOUND CONNECTION, COMMUNITY, AND EACH OTHER AT BROOMFIELD SWIM AND TENNIS CLUB
When was the last time you made a new friend—one who really stuck? Not just a passing connection or someone you wave to in the carpool line, but a real, lasting friendship. As adults, those are harder to come by. Without the built-in circles of school or work, meeting someone new can be a rare occurrence. But sometimes, life surprises you—through your kids, a shared activity, or even a neighborhood swim and tennis club.
“Friendship isn’t always easy to come by as we get older. But sometimes, all it takes is showing up—and staying long enough to notice the people around you.”
Kylie Bowdey and Kate Harris met at gymnastics when they were six years old. They didn’t go to the same school or live in the same neighborhood. They didn’t even know each other’s names. But their moms did—after spending hours side-by-side on the bleachers, watching their daughters tumble across the mats.
“I overheard one of the other moms mention that she was thinking of enrolling her daughter in a swimming team. I was on a team growing up and really enjoyed it, so I had been thinking about doing the same with my daughter Kylie,” says Lindsey Bowdey. “I asked her if she had found a place, and she said Broomfield Swim and Tennis Club.”
Soon, both girls were swimming for The Sharks and having a blast.
“You didn’t need to be a member of the club to participate on the summer team, so it was a perfect way to get a feel for the environment,” explains Tracy Harris, Kate’s mother, who also swam on a team in Littleton growing up.
That summer, the girls became fast friends. Their moms, nearby for every practice and meet, bonded too. In 2020, when the pandemic forced the club to limit access and restrict swim team participation to members, both families made the leap and joined.
The club quickly became more than just a place to swim—it became part of their routine, and a shared space where friendships deepened.
Once you find a place like that, it’s easy to say, “Let’s meet at the club.” And that’s exactly what they did.
Kylie and Kate started spending more time together outside of swimming, and their families followed suit. Birthday parties, pool days, and casual dinners became part of the rhythm. Lindsey and her husband, Clayton, soon realized they had even more in common with Tracy and her husband, Kenny—they were all Colorado natives and CU Boulder alumni. Both families had season tickets to the Buffs football games. Their seats were in different parts of the stadium, but they always made time to meet up and say hi.
As the girls got older, their interests shifted. Kate picked up tennis.
“Kylie saw how much fun Kate was having on the tennis court, so she started playing as well,” adds Kylie’s mother. “They did tennis clinics together and then joined Junior Team Tennis as they improved, pushing each other along the way.”
Those six-year-old girls are now fifteen and have just completed their freshman year of high school. Kate plays for the Lightning on the Legacy High School tennis team, and Kylie plays for the Eagles at Broomfield High School. They both played the deuce side at 4 doubles on varsity this past season—and even ended up facing off.
“I think their favorite match of the season was playing against each other. It’s rare in high school for your best friend to be on the opposing team,” explains Kate’s mom.
For Tracy and Lindsey, the club remains a place to relax and catch up with friends—whether or not the kids are around. But for Kylie and Kate, it’s something more. It’s where they’ve grown up side by side. Where they swim, play, laugh, and compete. And most of all, where they’ve always had each other.
“The staff and the other members have seen the girls grow up and consider them part of the Broomfield Swim and Tennis Club family,” adds Lindsey, “and family looks out for you and lets you be yourself. What a welcoming atmosphere, no matter what your age.”
Friendship isn’t always easy to come by as we get older. But sometimes, all it takes is showing up—at practice, at the pool, or in the bleachers—and staying long enough to notice the people around you. Along the way, you might pick up a new skill, discover a new passion, or simply find your people That’s how it started for these two families. What came next was something they couldn’t have planned: a shared history, a lasting bond, and the kind of friendship that just keeps showing up.
Building More Than Mechanics
Did you know what you wanted to do with your life when you were a high school student? For many of us, that was a tough question to answer—even well into adulthood!
Peyton Anadale-Rodriguez was one of those students who struggled to answer the question—he just knew that a fouryear college wasn’t it. So when he heard about an internship opportunity during his sophomore year at The Academy of Charter Schools, he took a chance. The placement was at Stang Auto Tech, a family-owned auto repair shop known for integrity, craftsmanship and deep community ties.
“I didn’t know anything about cars when I started, and I wasn’t interested in the automotive industry. But it was paid, so my mom encouraged me to take it,” he laughed. He cleaned out sump pumps on his first day. “It was miserable,” he laughed. But he stuck with it, and three years later, he’s still with Stang.
Peyton's unexpected path reflects a broader shift happening in education and the skilled trades. At the time, The Academy was one of the few schools actively promoting skilled trades for students not headed to a four-year college. Pioneered by Timothy Fifer, the internship program addressed the needs of these teenagers by providing hands-on opportunities in different industries. Soon, schools like Jefferson Academy and the Boulder Valley School District followed suit.
Robert Blaes, CEO of Stang Auto Tech, struggled to find a mechanic apprentice in 2022, so he shifted his approach. He partnered with The Academy and later with Front Range Community College (FCC) to offer something different at
ARTICLE BY JULIE WALKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH DAWN PHOTOGRAPHY
HOW STANG AUTO TECH IS SHAPING FUTURES
Peyton Anadale-Rodriguez
Stang—an internship program designed to teach life skills applicable to any career path.
“We turned our efforts toward helping Gen Z high school students develop critical career skills—such as spatial awareness, responsibility, task prioritization, working autonomously, strengthening their thought processes and critical thinking, problem solving, pride in craftsmanship, and a servant attitude,” Robert explained. “These are skills that apply to any career.”
FCC provides instructor-led classroom and lab training, and by working closely with Brian, a mentor at Stang, apprentices learn how to apply that knowledge in a real-world environment, connecting theory with hands-on automotive work. With support from George Arrants at the ASE Education Foundation, the program became a registered apprenticeship through the Department of Labor and is now recognized as an Emerging Apprenticeship by the state. Chris Heuston, Sheena Martin and others at FCC played a key role in building a program that offers real, tangible value.
The results are evident in both the shop and the students. Interns and apprentices not only build confidence and gain professional experience—they also contribute meaningfully to daily operations and the community. Their presence has had a lasting, positive effect on team morale and productivity.
Peyton was the first intern, starting as a facilities assistant. His responsibilities grew alongside his life skills. By his senior year, he worked before and after school, and cleaned the shop on Friday nights. After he got his driver’s license, he began staging cars for technicians and shuttling customers.
Now a full-time employee and a trusted part of the shop’s daily rhythm, he supports mechanics, manages equipment and mentors new interns. Although Peyton doesn’t plan to stay in the automotive industry—he’s now taking his general education classes at FCC and pursuing licenses in mortgage and life insurance— he credits the internship with giving him direction. “I’ve learned how to talk to customers and work as a team. And I love cars now!” Peyton added.
Serving the community is a core value at Stang, and they give back through programs like free oil services to single moms and homeless families in partnership with The Refuge. Raised by a single mother, this event is important to Peyton, and it’s meaningful for all who volunteer their time.
While Peyton is the longest-serving official intern, others like Kael, Will and Mason—now apprentices—have also demonstrated tremendous growth as team members. Current interns like Ricky, Arthur, Wade, Beck and Gavin also contribute meaningfully to the shop’s mission and success.
Robert speaks highly of the program and the young people. “Their servant attitudes and eagerness to learn have made technicians and advisors more efficient—they’ve witnessed these kids’ growth and willingness to learn, which is an invaluable boost as the industry faces a growing demand and shrinking pool of qualified technicians.”
And for students like Peyton, having the chance to explore what they don’t want to do has been just as important as discovering who they truly are.
L-R: Mason, Kael, Robert, Peyton & Will
A LEGACY IN EVERY LEAP
ARTICLE BY DANIKA DE JONG
2022 - Amanda Tipton Photography
INSIDE THE COLORADO CONSERVATORY OF DANCE AND ITS ENDURING ROLE IN BROOMFIELD’S STORY
There are places in every city that seem to hum with quiet, persistent energy—where history is not so much preserved as it is lived. In Broomfield, Colorado, one such place is the Colorado Conservatory of Dance (CCD), a legacy written in the steady discipline of barre work, the exuberance of a child’s first leap, and the applause that greets each curtain call.
The Conservatory’s story began with a vision. Not the fevered dream of a single genius, but a collective hope: to offer exceptional ballet training that would not only hone technical prowess but also inspire young dancers to imagine themselves on the professional stage. “It was founded as a place where discipline, artistry, and a deep love for dance could thrive,” says Sandra Shih Parks, Executive and Artistic Director of CCD, with a reverence that suggests the past is never quite out of step with the present.
At CCD, “Conservatory” means rigor—a nod to both tradition and a gentle rebellion against it; a holistic embrace of dance in all its forms. Within its walls, the roots of ballet are honored alongside the vibrant branches of culturally inspired movement. The result is a curriculum that is as much about respect and representation as it is about technical achievement. The faculty, accomplished artists in their own right, are as invested in character as they are in choreography, helping young dancers develop resilience, collaboration, empathy, and a strong work ethic that will serve them wherever life leads.
The Nutcracker—a hallmark of the Conservatory’s evolving identity—has been transformed by CCD’s collaborations with cultural experts in Arabic, Spanish, and Classical Chinese dance. These changes have created a second act that is both dazzling and deeply authentic, reflecting the organization’s dedication to honoring tradition while welcoming new voices to its stage. It’s a reminder that history is not static, but something to be revisited, refreshed, and reimagined.
Yet the true measure of CCD’s imprint on Broomfield lies in its response to the needs of the community. Recognizing that access to the arts is often a privilege, CCD has made it a mission to bridge that gap. Through dance scholarships, free after-school programs in Title I schools, and accessible ticket pricing for beloved productions, the Conservatory has opened its doors wide. For some children, these classes are a first encounter with an unattainable art form; for others, an invitation to belong.
In recent years, CCD has faced significant financial challenges—a reality many arts organizations have confronted. However, true to the spirit of its mission, the Conservatory has continued to move forward, sustained by the generosity and belief of its community. “We’re incredibly grateful,” Sandra shares. “The support we’ve received—from families, donors, and local partners has allowed us not only to continue, but to evolve with purpose.” This season, every registration, ticket purchased, and donation given is a note in a much larger composition—one that continues to play because the community believes in the power of what CCD brings to the stage and beyond.
Looking ahead, the Conservatory continues its legacy of access, excellence, and heart. Registration for the 2025–26 season opens June 30th, and families are invited to become part of a story that continues to shape lives on and beyond the stage.
“We embrace the idea that success doesn’t have to mean a professional dance career,” Sandra says. “Our students go on to thrive in so many fields because the discipline and mindset they gain here stay with them for life. While we’re proud to train exceptional dancers, we’re even more proud of the kind of people they become.”
AUGUST 3RD
Summer Sunday Festivals
Brunner Farmhouse - 640 Main Street, Broomfield. CO 80020 | 4:00 PM
Mark your calendar for BCAH’s final Summer Sunday Festival on August 3rd, from 4-8pm! Enjoy free, family-friendly fun with live music, performances, creative activities, and delicious eats from local food trucks. Bring lawn chairs and settle in for an unforgettable afternoon and evening. A 25-vear tradition, these festivals are a summer highlight for locals and visitors alike! Head to artsinbroomfield.org
AUGUST 10TH
FRIENDS of Broomfield Luncheon & Fashion Show
The Westin Westminster - 10600 Westminster Blvd, Westminster, CO 80020 | 10:00 AM
You’re Invited! Join Friends of Broomfield for our annual Luncheon & Fashion Show to celebrate confidence, inclusion, and community as participants and supporters strut the runway in style. Enjoy lunch, fashion, and heartwarming stories—all while supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Reserve your table at friendsofbroomfield.org and be part of the fun!
AUGUST 13TH
Come Check Out Guys Who Give!
Wonderland Brewing Company5450 W 120th Ave Broomfield, CO 80020 | 5:30 PM
Guys Who Give is a group of men with a desire to inspire and who are committed to making a difference in their local communities. This mission is accomplished by finding 100+ men to each contribute $100 at the quarterly events to benefit a chosen local charity. The idea is to keep
Embark from Fort Lauderdale aboard the elegant Rotterdam on a scenic 12‑day journey through the Panama Canal, with call‑ins to Costa Rica and the Greater Antilles.
enjoy two pools, seven hot tubs,
world‑class spa, vibrant lounges like the Rolling Stone and Half Moon Bars, and live entertainment at Billboard Onboard and World Stage. Indulgent dining options include Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, Tamarind and Rudi’s Sel de Mer.
2026 Dates: January 18 – 30 Tour Starts: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
CONTINUED
it local and have an impact that WE can SEE. Learn more at Guyswhogive.org
AUGUST 15TH & SEPTEMBER 19TH
Orchard ‘til Dark
The Orchard Town Center - 14697 Delaware St, Westminster, CO 80023 | 5:00 PM
Nothing says summer like shopping, sipping, and strolling under the evening sky. Join us for Orchard ‘til Dark, presented by Firsthand Market, every third Friday, through September, from 5–9pm. Enjoy a vibrant mix of local artisan vendors, refreshing adult beverages, and live entertainment the whole family will love—perfect for a fun, festive night out!
AUGUST 17TH
Broomfield Jewish Festival
Anthem Community Park - 15663 Sheridan Pkwy, Broomfield, CO 80020 | 1:00 PM
Celebrate Jewish culture at the Broomfield Jewish Festival! Enjoy live music, cultural food, family activities, interactive exhibits, and local vendors. Free and open to all, regardless of faith or background, this family-friendly event invites everyone to experience the joy of community, heritage, and connection. Discover the vibrant sights, sounds, and tastes of Jewish tradition. Learn more and plan your visit at chabadbroomfield.com
AUGUST 22ND
Adult Beginner Ninja Clinic at Warrior Challenge Arena
Warrior Challenge Arena - 3400 Industrial Lane, Broomfield, CO 80020 | 7:00 PM
Ever dreamed of trying Ninja Warrior? Jump into our Adult Beginner Ninja Clinic! Learn essential safety tips, master basic ninja moves, build strength, and run a thrilling beginner course—all led by passionate coaches and top Masters. Perfect for ages 16+ and all fitness levels. Bring your energy, try something new, and have a blast with fellow ninjas! Book at thewarriorarena.com
