March 2023 Our Broomfield™ Magazine

Cover Photo by Pat Eichner

Photo by Pat Eichner

EDITOR FROM THE Our Stories

I am writing this column on a cold February evening as the snow lightly falls outside my window. I am bundled up on the couch wearing a big sweater and wrapped in a fluffy blanket, wondering if it will ever be warm again!

But when I close my eyes, I can see the bright greens of the grasses like those in our cover photo taken by my husband Pat last year, and I can feel the sun shining above the trees and making the bright blue sky sparkle. Like our walkers in the picture, I can feel the warmth of the day, and I am thankful for the hat on my head to shade my eyes as I walk.

Our photos and our memories and our imaginations definitely have the power to transport us to another time and place. And it is the details within those vehicles that allow us to create a vivid scene, one you can see in your head and maybe even feel, or hear, or smell!

It is why I really love the article on page 20 about the Broomfield History Collection. We can all relate to the story about the Chestnut family and the Thanksgiving platter that was purchased at one of Broomfield’s first retailers, given as a gift to their mom, and then used faithfully for 50 years as part of a family’s holiday traditions.

Similarly, when I got married, my mom passed on her mother’s China to me. A beautiful but incomplete set with a deep green border, a fine gold edge, and an offwhite magnolia bloom in the center. It is called Jaderose by Lifetime China Co. and is a vintage pattern from the 1950s. I carefully take out the place settings each year for Christmas Eve dinner and I just love watching my mom’s face fill with memory as we sit down to eat at the beautiful table. Of course, the China takes special handling, to set and to wash and to store again. But each moment of care is worth it. A little bit of history passed down that in turn has become part of my history and that of my children as well. This one set of objects carries me back to Christmas celebrations past, events I was part of and even celebrations before my own birth, where I can hear the music and see the smiling faces at the table. And I can smell and taste the food! The Broomfield connection to this tale is that the same grandparents who one day first bought these dishes, had an Italian restaurant in Broomfield in the early 1960s, so I also imagine their recipes when I place the plates on the table. And now I am wondering if we can find any menus from their restaurant … a bit of Broomfield’s beginnings.

And so, Broomfield Museum Curator Elizabeth Beaudoin is absolutely correct. The objects and the memorabilia and the photos on their own, only have a certain value. It is the sharing of the story that brings meaning.

As the winter thaws, and your thoughts go to Spring cleaning, stop and pause before you part with that one “thing.” There just might be a Broomfield story worth sharing.

Thanks for reading,

Tina Eichner, Editor & Publisher

EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Tina Eichner

BUSINESS MANAGER

Pat Eichner

ART DIRECTOR

Stacey Horne

DESIGN CONSULTANT

Matthew Clark

SALES COORDINATOR

Jason De La Cruz

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT

Tammy Degenhart

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Megan Mayes

EVENTS & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Allison Eichner

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kristen Beckman

City of Broomfield

Lisa Payne

Missy Ruzicka

Bette Erickson

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EVENTS

Our Broomfield™ is Broomfield’s resource for local events and happenings. To submit an event for consideration, email event details including time, date, and location to info@OurBroomfield.com. Our Broomfield™ Magazine reserves the right to accept or decline any event submission at the Publisher’s discretion.

COMMUNITY CONTENT

Our Broomfield™ Magazine is a monthly community lifestyle magazine for Broomfield and the surrounding area. We aim to publish a magazine by, for, and about the businesses, organizations, and people of our great city. Our Broomfield™ is a magazine for all of us because it’s our community. It’s Our Broomfield. Our Broomfield™ Magazine and Our Broomfield LLC does not accept, publish, or endorse political advertising or content.

All inquiries should be sent to the Publisher at Our Broomfield LLC, P.O. Box 371, Broomfield, CO 80020.

Spring Pop-Ups

Little Tykes Theatre for ages 18 months - 5 years with an adult meets 10-10:45am 1st and 3rd Saturdays in March and April. Drop in for $15 or save money when you sign up for the full session!

Spring Break Camps! Create a musical with our music director! Ages 11-18 meet 9am-12pm.

The Rainbow Fish Directed by Felicia Bredenberg. Performed by a youth cast. Young audience members will love this sweet story of sharing and loving ourselves for who we are! Purchase tickets at backstorytheatre.org (options to sponsor a free ticket for those who cannot pay). Apr 8, 2023 @ 12pm and 2pm

Spring Student Showcase Join us for a night of variety and fun as students in our performance classes share what they’ve been working on! With performances varying 5-20 minutes each, stay as long as your littlest audience member will enjoy! FREE to the public (suggested donation at the door). Apr 13, 2023 @ 6:30pm

Summer Camps Show

COMMUNITY EVENTS

MARCH 3

Home GrownA Student Company Showcase

Mountain Contemporary Dance will be presenting their student company showcase, Home Grown, on March 3 at the Broomfield Auditorium. Join the student dance company at MCDA for an evening of student and faculty work showcasing our MADE student company dancers. Mountain Contemporary Dance Arts is a non-competitive student training and performance group that focuses on the whole dancer. The show is free to attend and begins at 7:00 p.m. Visit mountaincontemporarydance.com for more information.

MARCH 4

16th Annual Rocky Mountain Thyagaraja Utsvam

Colorado Fine Arts Association presents their 16th Annual Rocky Mountain Thyagaraja Utsvam on Saturday, March 4 at the Broomfield Auditorium. Classical Carnastic and Hindustani musical performances from solo and group acts will take place from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend this free event, but reservations are recommended. Please visit coloradofinearts.org/ rmtu-2023/ for more information or to reserve your spot.

MARCH 26

An Evening with Holocaust Survivor Oscar Sladek

Chabad of Broomfield is proud to present an evening with holocaust survivor Oscar Sladek on Sunday, March 26 at the Broomfield Recreation Center. All are invited to this free event to hear his

MARCH 5

One Book One Broomfield Junior

This year’s One Book One Broomfield Junior event features award-winning author/illustrator Yuyi Morales visiting at the Broomfield Auditorium on Sunday, March 5. Morales has written many picture books and nonfiction titles for children, including the New York Times bestselling “Dreamers,” which is the One Book One Broomfield Junior 2023 book selection. “Dreamers” is a picture book biography in which Morales tells her own

extraordinary story of survival, tragedy, and hope. The event will also feature an exhibition in partnership with Yad Vashem showcasing major historical aspects of the Holocaust. The exhibition will begin at 5:00 p.m. and will be followed by the featured speaker at 5:30. For more information or to RSVP, visit chabadbroomfield.com/holocaust.

story of immigrating to the United States and finding sanctuary and salvation at the local public library.

Stay for a book sale and signing after the author talk. The event is from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., with doors opening 30 minutes prior to start. No tickets required to attend, but seating will be first come first served until capacity is reached.

Oscar Sladek shares his story with Airmen during the Days of Remembrance event at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, Aug. 9, 2018. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kathryn Calvert)

BUSY FAMILIES

MORE HEART

By Lisa Payne

Last year in October, my mom treated me and my sister to a long weekend retreat in California. It was a Deepak Chopra retreat called Well Within. (If you do not know who Deepak Chopra is, he’s an alternative medicine advocate, physician, author, and public speaker). His books and meditation app are staples for me.

There are so many takeaways from the retreat that I want to share with you, but I would need to write an entire book. So I will share two messages that stood out for me the most. (And they were probably the most hidden messages since the main retreat messages were to live life in balance through Ayurveda practices). An important topic for another day!

There is a quote from Ingrid Goff-Maidoff that summarized the loudest message that I personally received from the retreat. She says “God spoke today in flowers, and I, who was waiting on words, almost missed the conversation.”

Read that again and let it soak in. I can hardly find the words to describe why reading this chokes me up, but it does every time. Perhaps it is because our busy chaotic way of life robs us of this beautiful reminder.

Some of you might have a strong feeling surface while reading this quote. Sit with it and journal your emotions to see what surfaces.

As an add on to this take away, was a message that seems simple yet is very difficult to do. It is … whatever you want, GIVE IT. What does that mean, you ask?

It means exactly what it says. If you want to feel more grateful, be grateful to others. If you want to feel more love from your spouse, give them more love first. If you want your kids to be more responsible, show them the way through example. If you want to feel more confident, do things that scare you. If you are always wishing for things that are not happening, be the one to change them yourself, first.

As Ingrid said, if you are always waiting on the words while being presented with flowers, you may miss the entire conversation. Where are the flowers hiding out in your life?

The second message that spoke to my heart is this: I can ruminate about a situation I don’t understand. Why doesn’t he or she do xyz or why is this happening and not that happening? Why would that person do what he or she

did? It’s easy to create stories from our perspective. It gets our emotions all riled up and usually for no reason. It may even affect how we treat others we are in conflict with. It can ruin relationships forever.

I learned this exercise (at the retreat) that has changed the entire way I look at stressful or confusing situations. It gets me out of my head and thinking with my heart.

Think of a stressful situation and give it a name (fear, anger, rejection etc.)

Journal exactly what happened from YOUR POINT OF VIEW.

Now describe the situation from the other person’s point of view. (Yes, so hard, but you can do it.)

Lastly, describe the situation as if you are a neutral observer.

Share it with someone you trust if you wish, and then burn the sheet.

It truly is life changing. It has opened my heart to have empathy for others when it was otherwise all about me. I promise, it will become easier with practice. Less head, more heart. Try it and enjoy the lightness of being, my friends! Namaste.

Lisa Payne writes about food, family, and home. You can reach her at paynefam6@gmail.com.

EVENTS COMMUNITY

MARCH 30

Broomfield Women’s Event

The second annual Broomfield Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Event, “I AM...” will be hosted by the Chamber and its Business Ladies Inspiring Success (BLIS) Leads Group on March 30 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Lionsgate Event Center. Tickets include a lunch buffet, a drink ticket, access to ten local women-owned business booths at the expo, speakers, networking, and entertainment. To register and learn more visit: https://members.broomfieldchamber.com/events/ details/broomfield-women-s-event-19338?calendarMonth=2023-03-01

APRIL 10

Colorado Symphony Petite Musique presents “Peter Rabbit”

On Monday, April 10 the Colorado Symphony Petite Musique will be performing an interactive production of Peter Rabbit featuring a 16-piece orchestra, delightful illustrations, and a bilingual narrator who will incorporate storytelling, singing, and dance into the performance. Two shows will be performed at the Broomfield Auditorium at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Every participant will receive a com plimentary storybook with the story in English and Span ish. This event is free to the public, but registration is highly recommended. Drop-ins are welcome if any seats are avail able. Families and classrooms with children aged 0-7 can reserve tickets at https://coloradosymphony.org/education/ schools-teachers/petite-musique/reservations/. For more information visit CreativeBroomfield.com.

Here at Scalzo o Italian Restaurant, we serve authentic dishes originating from northern Italy. Our pastas and sauces are made by hand and from scratch. Our traditional recipes and cooking techniques create a similar experience of dining in a local tra oria in Italy. Family owned!

APRIL 27, 28 & 29

Cat’s Cradle performed by Broomfield Community Players

The Broomfield Community Players are proud to present Cat’s Cradle by Leslie Sands. Set in an old coach house in a remote English Village, Cat’s Cradle concerns an almost forgotten kidnapping, and perhaps murder, that was never solved. The original inspector reopens the investigation to find a conspiracy of silence from the locals and a past shrouded in mystery. You are sure to be shocked by the ending of this psychological mystery thriller! Performances will be held April 27 at 7:00 p.m., April 28 at 7:00 p.m., and April 29 at 2:00 p.m. at the Broomfield Auditorium. Visit http://www.artsinbroomfield.org/broomfield-community-players.html for more information.

APRIL 30

FRIENDS TOPGOLF Tournament

FRIENDS of Broomfield is hosting a Topgolf Tournament Fundraiser on April 30 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Have your company sponsor your team of 6, register your team of 6 independently, or sign up in pairs of two for a Sunday Funday with your friends at FRIENDS. Lunch will be provided to participants with a cash bar available. FRIENDS of Broomfield is a premier nonprofit agency in your community, providing person centered programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Funds raised will support FRIENDS in their goal of purchasing a new bus to accommodate their transportation needs. Every gift made from now through May 7 will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling your impact. For more information, to register for the event, or to give a gift donation please visit friendsofbroomfield.org/topgolf-tournament.

Ages

Find a Great Job with the City and County of Broomfield this Summer

By The City and County of Broomfield

Grow your resume and snag a great opportunity by applying for one of the City and County of Broomfield’s 200 job openings this summer!

Summer jobs are an amazing opportunity for students, teachers, retirees, and others throughout Broomfield and the surrounding area looking to explore new challenges, make some extra spending money, and take the next steps in their career. In addition to competitive pay and flexible scheduling, employees also receive a free Recreation Pass to all facilities to enjoy on their days off. Jobs are available in areas such as aquatics, athletics, parks, camp, and other areas of Broomfield.

Applying for a job in aquatics gives teens and young adults the opportunity to test the waters at something unfamiliar. Every summer, Broomfield hires as many as 50 lifeguards to work at The Bay Aquatic Park, the Paul Derda Recreation Center, and the Broomfield Community Center. While the job involves lots of fun in the sun at some of Broomfield’s favorite places, these lifeguards are trained to rescue swimmers and administer emergency services such as CPR and first aid; skills that will last a lifetime.

If aquatics aren’t for you but you’re looking to stay active, apply for a position within athletics as a coach, official or facilities coordinator. You don’t have to be a sporting hero to be a good coach; all you need is passion, dedication, and a clean background check. Lend your passion to the next generation by serving as a coach for tennis, track or other summer sports. As important as the coaches are the officials. Umpires, referees, and other officials ensure the rules are upheld while creating a fun and fair experience with smooth gameplay for players and spectators alike.

If you love nature and the great outdoors and want to help keep Broomfield’s outdoor spaces beautiful for everyone to enjoy, then working for the parks department could be right for you! High schoolers are invited to apply for the position of ju-

nior park ranger, a role assisting senior park rangers and park maintenance crews. Those over 18 who’d like to work in the parks can apply to be a seasonal laborer. Seasonal laborers assist in the preparation, development, and maintenance of park areas.

Other fantastic summer opportunities happen at Camp Explorer, Broomfield’s summer camp for youth from kindergarten to 8th grade. If you love working with kids, you’ll want to apply to be a camp leader. After a few training sessions, you’ll spend the summer taking kids on field trips to some of the most fun places in Broomfield.

Applying for a position with the City and County of Broomfield is easy! Applications are completed 100% online and applicants can complete a job interest form to be notified of additional openings as they are posted. Better yet, in some cases you can apply for multiple positions with just one application to help you easily find a position that best fits your interests and schedule. Most applicants will hear back within a week and know they have a great job secured for the summer.

If you are looking for a long-term position, the City and County is also hiring for several full-time positions in departments like Finance, Payroll, Police, Human Services, and more!

If you love working with kids, you’ll want to apply to be a camp leader.

could not have been more impressed with In Memoriam. The professionalism, attention to detail and overall care and sympathy they showed us in our darkest hours was amazing. They have and still are answering all of our questions as we navigate the loss of our father. The warm boutique type atmosphere was so inviting and comforting compared to other places that tend to be stale and cold. We as a family would highly recommend In Memoriam when you are dealing with some of the hardest times of your life.”

City Seeks Donations to Expand Broomfield History Collection

By Kristen Beckman

In an effort to diversify its collection of historical material, the city is seeking interviews, photos, and objects relating to life in Broomfield for the Broomfield History Collection. Stories of the immigrant experience, minority groups, and those often left out of the historical narrative, are of particular interest.

For example, The Friends of Broomfield History – an independent non-profit 501c3 group that supports the museum and collection – recently received a grant for a project titled “The Story of Us,” and volunteers will soon begin conducting oral histories to create a more comprehensive and inclusive story of those who have made Broomfield their home. The project is funded by a Broomfield Arts, Culture, and Science Grant.

The Broomfield History Collection currently consists of more than 8,000 objects, photos, and archival materials that relate to the history of Broomfield. Many of these items were collected and compiled by volunteers of the former Broomfield Historical Society, which operated the Depot Museum for nearly 30 years until the City and County took ownership in 2011.

Included in the collection today are more than 2,000 photos taken in and around Broomfield, many from the 1950s when Broomfield Heights began to transform from a small farming community to a growing suburban city. Dozens of recorded interviews with community members who grew up in

Broomfield from the early 20th century to today are also part of the collection, along with objects that illustrate the community’s history with railroad, farming, business, and Broomfield Days. Household items such as quilts and kitchenware used to decorate the Depot are also part of the collection.

The project’s coordinators are encouraging Broomfielders to consider donating items that may not have obvious historical significance but become significant because of the story attached to them.

“While many people may think their personal stories aren’t ‘History’ with-a-capital-H, our goal at the Broomfield History collection is to preserve and share stories of what everyday life was/is like in Broomfield,” said Museum Curator Elizabeth Beaudoin. “Maybe these stories might not seem like history now, but as time passes these stories take on more meaning and give context to how we’ve grown and changed as a community.”

For example, Beaudoin said she loves reading the stories of what it was like for those in 1910 living in Broomfield – how they rode the train to Denver to see movies, how they kept the school house warm with coal, and how dances at the Grange were the social opportunities in which teenagers flirted with each other. Stories about growing up in Broomfield Heights and how people were able to walk to the shopping center that used to be at the end of Midway, donate extra change to Shep at the tollbooth, hang out at the A&W, and ride their bikes all over town, add richness and color to the picture of life in Broomfield that the collection attempts to preserve.

Above, Duane Wiley in front of his house at 106 Hemlock Street, c. 1956. At right, Wiley’s Jaycees vest.

One of the collection’s more recent donations is a vest worn by Duane Wiley, a member of the Broomfield Jaycees in the 1960s and 70s. This western-style vest is covered in patches and would have been worn at events the Jaycees helped organize, such as Broomfield Days. The donor, Randy Wiley, included stories about his dad’s participation in the Jaycees, as well as photos of his family in front of their home in First Filing.

Another recent donation was a large Thanksgiving turkey platter donated by Kathy Hobaugh. Hobaugh included a story of how in the early 1960s her siblings went to the local Broomfield Ben Franklin to purchase a gift for their mother. They chose this platter which their mother loved and used every Thanksgiving for over 50 years. She also included photos of her family from that time in the 1960s that bring color and context to the story.

“A lot of the time people treat museums like thrift stores and just donate things without any context, which separates the object from the more valuable thing, the story,” said Beaudoin.

“For example, that turkey platter doesn’t have a lot of value by itself. It’s just a mass-produced turkey platter, but

with the donor’s story and photos it becomes representative of family and life in Broomfield at a particular moment, one that I think a lot of other Broomfielders can relate to.”

Other items organizers are looking for might be found in your grandparents’ junk drawers – old phone books, maps, real estate listings, and other ephemera such as napkins, matchbooks, postcards, and menus from old Broomfield businesses.

“These things are unique to Broomfield, and who else but us will save such items?” said Beaudoin.

The Broomfield History Collection database is available online at https://hub.catalogit.app/9352 for the public to peruse and do research. The digitization and cataloging of the collection has been mostly done by volunteers, and there are many items still to be digitized. Volunteers are always needed to help digitize and catalog items as well as to help identify unknown people, places, and events in the photo and archive collection.

More information about the Broomfield History Collection is at www.broomfield.org/Depot

A large Thanksgiving turkey platter donated by Kathy Hobaugh. Photo courtesy Elizabeth Beaudoin.

Chestnut Family Photo taken in 1968 at 942 E. 10th Ave. in Broomfield. Back row: June, Steve, Tom; middle: Kathy; front: Rick and Kelly. Photo courtesy Kathy (Chestnut) Hobaugh.

Open space, Recreation, and Parks Broomfield’s Represent Heart and Soul of the Community

By Bette Erickson

Are you wondering how the City and County of Broomfield acquires, maintains, and assesses its needs when it comes to open space and parks? Look no further.

Late last fall a group of energetic volunteers, city and county staff member, and numerous other stakeholders met to discuss Broomfield’s progress and next steps regarding open space, trails, parks, and recreation.

At the joint meeting on October 27, the city’s Open Space and Trails Advisory Committee (OSTAC) along with the Parks, Recreation, and Senior Services Advisory Committee (PRSSAC) reviewed the latest work on the Open Space, Parks, Recreation, and

Next Joint OSTAC/ PRSSAC Meeting: April 27 • Land Acquisition

Trails Plan Refresh covering the Existing Open Lands Map, Existing Trails Map, and next steps.

The group discussed new areas of focus for the Plan Refresh as well as focus areas from the previous 2005 Open Space, Parks, Recreation, and Trails (OSPRT) Plan that continue to be important. The presentation included the overall vision of the plan to the group, along with discussion of what measures are being used to refine the goals for the plan.

Broomfield is nearing its admirable 40% Open Lands Goal.

Photo taken on a snowy day this past December at Outlook Park. Bette Erickson for Our Broomfield

A maintained trail is just one of the amenities that greets visitors at Anthem’s Siena Reservoir. Bette Erickson for Our Broomfield

Photos by Pat Eichner

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At the meeting, staff shared an overview of current trails, planned trails, and the criteria for trail creation. The city and county connects public spaces via paths and greenways in providing continuous green spaces throughout the community benefiting wildlife, enhancing recreational experiences, and increasing Broomfield’s walkability.

The Refresh and Refinement is based on the 2005 OSPRT Plan, the 2016 Comprehensive Plan, and an extensive 2022 Community Engagement outreach. There will be future opportunities for public community engagement including a meeting in April.

Bernard Jenson said he moved from a neighboring municipality to Broomfield in part because of the extensive trails and open lands.

“I’ll bet if you asked anybody what it is they like best about the community, it is all the interconnecting trails,” he explained.

Indeed, the Vision of the OSPRT Plan states:

The OSPRT Plan will preserve and enhance those special places that are the Heart and Soul of Broomfield. The Heart is represented by parks and other civic spaces that bring Broomfield together as a community. The Soul is represented by the open spaces and trails that provide contemplation and appreciation, whether viewed from afar, experienced close at hand, or near to home. The Heart and Soul of Broomfield provides a strong sense of unity, pride, and identity. They should be enhanced, preserved, and celebrated.

Some of the information gleaned from the extensive community outreach efforts include:

• Some respondents felt there are not enough recreation centers near their homes

• Visitors to OSPRT facilities feel uncomfortable due to wildlife and off-leash pets

• Inadequate signage on trails and at facilities,

• Insufficient adaptations for physical restrictions

• Some participants indicated that better signage, increased safety, and better access would increase their usage of the Broomfield trail system

• Important considerations were the maintenance of parks, recreation, and open space areas and maintained walking and biking surfaces

• Some respondents cited the need for lower fees or a sliding fee scale for lower income people

• Safety and maintenance would make some residents feel more welcome

• Increased trail connectivity, safety, and education about existing facilities and trails would help families with children use the trail system more often

“I’ll bet if you asked anybody what it is they like best about the community, it is all the interconnecting trails.”

• Visitors made use of the facilities for family bonding, exercise, socialization, and nature appreciation

• Respondents overwhelmingly stated that parks contributed to their positive mental health

• The surveys indicated high priorities still include trail connectivity within neighborhoods

• Concerns regarding park proximity, restrooms, shelters, and shaded areas

The OSPRT Plan shares the 2016 Comprehensive Plan’s core values of social responsibility and equity, environmental stewardship, and economic security and opportunity. Collectively, these core values build a solid foundation for Broomfield’s OSPRT by providing unique places for current residents of Broomfield and future generations.

To view the presentation and the updated project, visit http://ow.ly/5GQy50LWKUc.

Bette Erickson writes about people, places and events. Contact her at bette_ erickson@hotmail.com.

Photo by Pat Eichner

Who’s Up for a Dip Dinner?

I love dips! Any kind. I would rather eat a spread of dips than any other kind of meal.

By Lisa Payne

My BFF in Minnesota once told me about her neighbor who has a pool, and would invite the ladies over on Friday afternoons for a sip and dip. My first question was “What kind of dips do you all bring????” Amy laughed and laughed. To anyone else a sip and dip means drinks and a dip in the pool. To me that means we were eating dip with our drinks and please sign me up! Amy was NOT talking about food.

I am giving you my favorites here friends so rip this page out and use them often. They are EASY PEASY and darn delicious. Enjoy!

Corn Dip

(my number one requested dip recipe)

• 4 cans white shoepeg corn

• 2 small cans roasted green chilis any heat level you like

• 2 Tbsp. chopped pickled

jalapenos (optional)

• 3 Tbsp. mayonnaise

• ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 bag Frito’s Scoops

Mix all together and you are done! The beautiful thing here is, in the summer, serve it cold. In the winter, heat it in the microwave or oven until bubbly. Serve with corn chips.

Tomatillo Guacamole

• 3 large avocados, insides scooped out

• 1 (11-ounce) can

tomatillos, drained*

• ½ cup chopped onion

• 3 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro

• 3-4 Tbsp. fresh lime juice

• 1 ½ tsp. seeded minced serrano chiles

• ½ tsp. salt

• 1 tsp garlic powder

Place the avocado and tomatillos in

a food processor and process until smooth. Spoon mixture into a bowl, stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and chill 1 hour. Serve with tortilla chips. *You can also use fresh tomatillos (papery outer covering removed and boil in water 5 minutes)

Buffalo Chicken Dip

• 1 pound cream cheese

• ¾ cup Frank’s RedHot sauce

• 1 rotisserie chicken, skin and

bones discarded; meat shredded into bite size pieces (3 cups)

• 1 cup ranch dressing

• 1 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

• 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 scallions, sliced thin

• Tortilla chips

• Celery sticks

• Carrot sticks

Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat to 350 degrees. Combine cream cheese and hot sauce in medium bowl and microwave until cream cheese is very soft, about 2 minutes, whisking halfway through microwaving. Whisk until smooth and no lumps remain. Stir in chicken pieces, dressing, and blue cheese, if using, and Worcestershire until combined. Transfer dip to shallow 3 quart baking dish and bake 10 minutes. Remove dish from oven, stir dip and sprinkle with cheddar. Return dish to oven and continue to bake until cheddar is melted and dip is bubbling around edges, about 10 minutes longer. Sprinkle with scallions. Serve with chips, carrots, and celery.

Toffee Apple Dip

• 8 oz. soft cream cheese

• ¼ cup white sugar

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• ½ package heath toffee bits

• 4 green apples, cores removed and sliced Mix all of the ingredients together and chill. Serve with cut up green apple slices.

Lisa Payne writes about food, family, and home. You can reach her at paynefam6@gmail.com.

Photo Courtesy Living Well Kitchen

Photo Courtesy Spend with Pennies

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B u s i n e s s E v e n t . " I A M . . . " i s h o s t e d b y t h e C h a m b e r a n d i t s B u s i n e s s L a d i e s I n s p i r i n g S u c c e s s ( B L I S ) L e a d s

G r o u p

T i c k e t s w i l l i n c l u d e a l u n c h b u f f e t , a d r i n k t i c k e t , l o c a l l y - o w n e d w o m e n ' s b u s i n e s s b o o t h e x p o s , m o t i v a t i o n a l s p e e c h e s , n e t w o r k i n g , f o o d - d r i v e a n d e n t e r t a i n m e n t

I n c l u d i n g a B r o o m f i e l d F I S H

F o o d D r i v e

T i c k e t s

$ 5 5 f o r M e m b e r s

$ 6 5 f o r N o n - M e m b e r s

* R e g i s t e r b e f o r e M a r c h 1 5 t h a n d g e t $ 1 0 o f f y o u r r e g i s t r a t i o n f e e !

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , s p o n s o r s h i p d e t a i l s a n d r e g i s t r a t i o n , v i s i t w w w B r o o m f i e l d C h a m b e r c o m o r f o l l o w t h e Q R C o d e L i n k .

*Sponsorship opportunities are still available

Second Broomfield Women’s Event Scheduled for March 30

The second annual Broomfield Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Event, “I AM ...” will be hosted by the Chamber and its Business Ladies Inspiring Success (BLIS) Leads Group on March 30 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Lionsgate Event Center.

“The Broomfield Chamber of Commerce is honored to host our Second Annual Women in Business event. Last year over 130 business leaders were in attendance to collaborate, share, and make connections. This year we are excited to welcome Dale Wilsher from Your Authentic Personality as our speaker. We look forward to bringing together and empowering the women of our business community. We would like to thank our sponsors for their continued support of the Broomfield Chamber of Commerce and their community- Lionsgate Event Center, Our Broomfield Magazine, and the BLIS committee,” said Andrea Warren, Broomfield Chamber of Commerce Events Director. Dale Wilsher will speak about how to leverage your motivation and mission for your life, work, and business.

11

WHY: The

The planning committee is also excited to share that Hayden Kristal, a touring comedian, that you might recognize from America’s Got Talent, will also be featured. Come meet other local women focused on community and business at this Broomfield Chamber of Commerce signature event! Sponsorships are still available. Tickets are $65 for non-members and $55 for members and include a lunch buffet, a drink ticket, access to ten local women-owned business booths at the expo, speakers, networking, and entertainment.

In order to celebr siness, we will b oomfield FISH a oomfield churc eir six decades piring women by bringing non-p

Sponsors:

Dale Wilsher

Hayden Kristal

Meet Mayor Guyleen Castriotta

Topersonalize my journey, it’s important to know where I started. My journey began in Louisiana, and I struggled on many fronts; being the first one in my family to go to college and fighting to become my authentic self. I knew I was different, that I thought differently than those around me, and that I felt different from what my family and community believed I should be, should think, and how I should feel.

I quickly realized that finding my own voice had to come first. Later along my leadership path, it would become clear that finding one’s voice is paramount to leadership – it all starts with an ability to lead yourself, before beginning to lead others.

In school, I learned from the voices of those who have tried, failed, and eventually accomplished great things. It was a degree in broadcast journalism of all things that I truly felt pulled to as

a way to tell the stories of the oppressed and advocate for those without a voice. Too many times in our history the stories not told are the ones that matter most. For me, that’s when it clicked. From finding my voice and authentic self to finding a career to use my voice to make a difference for others who may also feel and think differently.

To me, being a good leader isn’t about glory or recognition but the end result of improving the lives of a lot, a little, or even one person. Mark Twain spoke the truest words in leadership…” It’s remarkable what you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit”.

My career has taken me on many different paths I never thought possible because I was courageous enough to be uncomfortable and try something new. I found the courage that I never knew I had by doing things that terrified me, like running for office and taking risks. The rewards have most definitely been worth it!

Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family. My wife Carolyn and I have been together for 13 years and we have cared

for her 95-year old mother in our home since 2014.

Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?

Great Scotts Eatery

Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch?

Ellie McKinley – She has lived in Broomfield a long time and I would love to hear her stories of how Broomfield came to be one of the most desirable places to live in the Denver Metro.

Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?

What makes Broomfield feel like home to me is the friendliness and helpfulness of the community and how our neighbors all know one another and look out for each other.

Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10? The views in Broomfield!

To learn more about Mayor Castriotta, visit https://thefacesofbroomfield.com/ guyleen-castriotta/

Editor’s Note: Each month Raven Astrom will profile a different community member from her website, TheFacesofBroomfield.com. Thank you, Raven, for this great endeavor to help us get to know each other better!

Mayor Castriotta

Ben Vagher’s Steady Contributions Help Make Broomfield Great

By Bette Erickson

When we think about what makes a community great, many of us think of people. One of the behind-the-scenes leaders that has made Broomfield all that we love, is longtime resident Ben Vagher.

“Ben is just such a straight-up guy,” said Emily de la Crouse, lifelong Broomfield resident and law school student. “It would be difficult to pinpoint just one thing that I admire about him.”

Having moved straight to Broomfield right out of college with his wife, Katherine, Mr. Vagher says our community is a great place to raise a family. “For that reason and more, we feel a responsibility to give back to our community with our personal resources,” he said.

In 2016 the couple was given the Broomfield Community Foundation’s Heart of Broomfield Philanthropic award.

“When you live here this long you make a lot of friends,” he explained. He and Katherine moved here in 1975 and more or less immediately gave themselves wholly to making Broomfield what it is today, in addition to raising their two daughters here.

The Vaghers will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary this summer with a trip to Poland.

Even during his busy career as co-owner, with his wife, of a road construction company, Mr. Vagher volunteered for 22 years as Assistant Varsity Coach of Broomfield High School’s girls basketball team.

“We had a good run, taking home five consecutive state championships,” he said.

Now retired, when asked what his hobbies are Mr. Vagher replies, in addition to being a big sports fan and a Broncos season ticket holder, he enjoys serving various non-profits. Through the years, those non-profit organizations and roles have included the Board of Directors of the Broomfield Community Foundation, currently serving as the Chair of the Broomfield Republican Party, the Broomfield Evening Rotary President, the President of SRB – Senior Resources of Broomfield, and past

Board Member of the Bal Swan Children’s Center.

“I try to be a contributor on Boards that I serve on, and not just warm the seat,” he said. “I appreciate being involved on these numerous Boards and I want to give back, for sure.”

Teryl Fabry, SRB’s Executive Director, agrees. “I think Ben does an amazing job as SRB president. He knows the issues that affect our older adults and he’s good at advocating

“Mentally and physically, it’s important to not isolate yourself – to always be a part of something. Try to make a difference in your community. Contribute.”

for what they need.” She goes on to say, “Ben is compassionate toward their struggles and with his connections in the community, that makes him an ideal SRB President.”

When asked what motivates him and keeps him vital (he recently turned 71-years-old) and engaged in the community, Mr. Vagher explained as an aging adult himself, he’s always been impressed with those who remain active in a variety of ways.

“Mentally and physically, it’s important to not isolate yourself – to always be a part of something,” he advised. “Try to make a difference in your community. Contribute.”

Bette Erickson writes about people, places and events. Contact her at bette_erickson@hotmail.com.

Ben Vagher sits at the head of the table with various Senior Resources of Broomfield (SRB) Board Members at the group’s annual holiday breakfast. Courtesy photo

Longtime Broomfield resident and philanthropist, Ben Vagher, wears numerous hats in his many roles in the community, although he wears no hat in this recent photo. Courtesy Photo

ADVERTISER

INDEX

Thank you to the Our Broomfield™ Magazine advertisers for March 2023! Check out their websites to learn more and thank you for supporting our local business community.

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Larson Tax & Financial www.larsonplanners.com

Living Well/Summit www.livingwell-nutrition.com

Mata Dental www.drmatadental.com

Mr. Dino’s Kitchen & Bath www.mrdinosbaths.com

Pearl Wok www.pearlwokrestaurant.com

Planet Fitness www.planetfitness.com

PuroClean www.puroclean.com/pdr-co

RE/MAX – Christina Surprenant www.broomhood.com

Rocky Mountain Sports Club www.rockymountainsportsclub.com

Roll'em Out Shelves www.rollemoutshelves.com

Scalzotto Italian Restaurant www.scalzottoitalianrestaurant.com

The Law Firm of Bruce Danford www.brucedanford.com

TICO HVAC www.ticohvac.com

TYCO Plumbing www.tycoplumbingco.com

Unique Heating & Air www.uniquehvac.com

Wag N Wash www.wagnwash.com/broomfield

WeatherTech www.weathertech.com

Wee Travel www.weetravel.org

Wellspring Theatre www.wellspringtheatre.org

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Window Replacement Denver www.pachnerexteriors.com

Colon Cancer Screenings are Key to Good Health

March is colon cancer awareness month! In May of 2021 the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force issued new recommendations that people with average risk for colon cancer start screenings at age 45 instead of 50. The providers at CHPG Northwest Gastroenterology Specialist want to make sure that community members are aware of these changes and book an appointment for a colonoscopy consultation.

Colon cancer screenings are an important tool to catching colorectal cancers early. According to Dr. Ariana Greenwood, colon cancer is the third most common cause of cancer death in the U.S. for both men and women. The incidence of colon cancer is rising in people younger than 50 years of age, likely due to environmental factors. Dr. Greenwood said at their practice they find precancerous polyps in 40% of women and 60% of men with no family

history of colon cancer or colon polyps. Most people do not have symptoms from these precancerous polyps or from colon cancer at all until it is in advanced stages. That is why it is so important to get your screenings done.

For adults with family history of colon cancer or polyps, the recommended age can decrease to 40 years or younger depending on individual circumstances. Adults without family history of colorectal cancer should be screened at the new recommended age of 45. If you are unsure about your family history, you can ask your primary care physician and they will help you determine when the best time is for you to start.

During your consultation with the gastroenterology department, they will answer all your questions and go over what you can expect from your colonoscopy procedure. Dr. Greenwood explained that the day before

your procedure you will be on a clear diet; no solid food and will be asked to drink significant amounts of water. On the day of your procedure, you should plan to have someone drive you to and from your appointment. They will put you to sleep for the procedure, which only takes 15-20 minutes. Also, plan to take that day off work and have a family member keep you company for the day.

March is colon cancer awareness month, and since 1 in 24 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, screenings are the best way for doctors to detect smaller, precancerous polyps which helps patients get treatments early and is most effective.

To schedule a consultation or get more information, please visit https:// www.centura.org/location/chpg-northwest-gastroenterology-specialists