March 2024 Our Broomfield™ Magazine

EDITOR FROM THE Our Frenemythe Month of March

“In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb” is the age old saying (I struggled to find a verified origin for this one) that refers to the way the month of March starts with the harsh cold remains of winter weather but often finishes with milder, sunnier days, and even plants beginning to bud.

And then we have the “Ides of March” which we are to beware of. What does this mean? It is one of those sayings that is part of popular culture but I would guess most people could not explain. I learned that “Ides” actually refers to the full moon - which in fact happens each month - not just in March. In this context it was an ancient day of renewal and celebration, but then entered the Romans. March 15 was a date of religious celebration in Rome, but also a deadline to settle debts. It might be with the assassination of Caesar on that day that the phrase took a darker veneer and now indicates something ominous.

In Broomfield, March brings many wonderful signs of the season to come. Soccer fields are full of players, trails are full of runners and dog walkers, Parks and Recreation Teams are preparing our outdoor spaces for the summer ahead.

By the time March starts, we are weary of the cold, ready for longer days of sunlight, and eager to get outside. And many still face the gloom of completing taxes. But Spring Break is often in March! And so, the Lion Lamb descriptor surely fits.

I definitely feel like March is a frenemy. Christmas memories are fading and summer fun feels out of reach. And did I mention those taxes? Yet, in Broomfield, March brings many wonderful signs of the season to come. Soccer fields are full of players, trails are full of runners and dog walkers, Parks and Recreation Teams are preparing our outdoor spaces for the summer ahead.

Julius Caesar as a leader may have stained the date of March 15, but in Broomfield the date has a much more positive connotation. It is the deadline to nominate a worthy community member for the 23rd Annual Heart of Broomfield Awards. Winners will be recognized and honored at a community reception on June 7, 2024, at the Chateaux at Fox Meadows. To learn more about how to nominate someone and the new award categories for this year, visit BroomfieldFoundation.org.

Thanks for reading,

Tina Eichner, Editor & Publisher

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.”

www.InMemoriamServices.com

EVENTS

March 1-30

The Great Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt

Join the Great 2024 Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt at the Broomfield Plaza to have some family fun and win prizes! The self-guided scavenger hunt runs from March 1 through March 30. Grab your entry form at Ziggi’s Coffee and get a free $5 gift card just for playing! There are 30 painted eggs to find throughout the center and lots of fun to be had. Return completed forms to Ziggi’s Coffee by 5 p.m. on March 30 to be entered to win one of the prize packages, which include cash and gift cards. Happy Hunting!

March 2

Family & Friends CPR Class

North Metro Fire Rescue District is hosting Family and Friends CPR classes and Bleeding Control training on March 2 at 8:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 12:00 p.m. at the North Metro Fire Headquarters. The CPR class is perfect for individuals of all ages to learn how to perform CPR and use an AED. Bleeding Control training will teach participants how to deal with traumatic injuries by packing a wound and applying a tourniquet. Register for free by visiting www.nmfr.org/cpf.

March 3

One Book, One Broomfield Jr.

Attend this year’s One Book, One Broomfield Junior Author talk in the Broomfield Auditorium on Sunday, March 3 at 2:00 p.m. The 2024 Author is Grace Lin, and she will discuss her New York Times best selling book, “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon.” This is a wondrous novel with an epic journey and memorable characters in the tradition of “The Wizard of Oz.” Stay for a book sale and signing! All are welcome and no tickets are required, but seating will be firstcome, first-served until capacity is reached.

March 3

Get Your Heart in the Game at 100 Nickel

Family and friends are invited to join Broomfield FISH at 100 Nickel bowling for a fundraising night as they kick off the Get Your Heart in the Game campaign! Be sure to mention that you are with FISH, and 20% of proceeds from your bowling, laser tag, food and beverage orders are donated back. No RSVP needed to attend. This event was created to raise awareness for FISH’s monthly giving program, which is an easy and budget-friendly way to provide reliable, sustained funds for operations and programming. Visit broomfieldfish.org for more information.

March 6

Annual Women’s Safety Day

The Broomfield Police Department is excited to once again host Women’s Safety Day on Wednesday, March 6 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Broomfield Community Center. The event will be hosted by members of the BPD “Her Own Hero” women’s self-defense team. Women’s Safety Day will feature mini safety sessions, demonstrations, and informational booths on a variety of topics that pertain to women in our community. Topics will include safe social media use, safe online dating practices, situational awareness, and more. Women of all ages are welcome!

March 8

Morpheus Dreaming “Live on the Lanes”

Morpheus Dreaming, a Colorado Morphine tribute band playing low-rock and pop covers, will be Live on the Lanes at 100 Nickel on March 8 at 7:30 p.m. Come for the band, stay for food, drinks, and bowling! Standing room only along the concourse of the venue, with special concert pricing for unlimited bowling during the show. General admission tickets are $10 and do not include bowling, food, or drinks and can be purchased at etix.com by searching Morpheus Dreaming.

March 9

Prom Swap Shopping Day

It’s Prom season and time for the Broomfield Library second annual prom swap! Skip the mall and opt for an eco-friendly way to shop for your prom attire. Bring your unwanted (and clean) formal wear and accessories to the library and take a new-to-you outfit home. For each dress, suit, pair of shoes, or accessory you donate, you will receive credit for an item of the same category. Don’t have anything to donate? Don’t worry! All are welcome to take home a new outfit. The Prom Swap will be Saturday, March 9 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Eisenhower Meeting Room of the Broomfield Library.

Do

Brown

Thinning

Water

Breaks

Regenerates

Won’t

Increases

of You Taking Care

By Lisa Payne

It is March already! I want to check in with you mamas out there. This can apply to dads as well, and really anyone in general, but I see so much on social media where moms have a lot going on. They are asking good questions and being vulnerable. They are saying I’m tired, I’m lonely, I miss my kids when I go to work, I need to take better care of myself. I hear you and I’m here for you.

I am going to share ways that I take care of myself and keep myself at the top of my priority list. It’s hard when you have so many other people to take care of, but you can do it. These are small steps to bring much greater joy in your life.

I like to start by naming something good. Every single day. I wake up and it’s the first thing I do. What am I thankful for? If you find that life is so low and sad that you can’t think of one thing to say, try saying I’m thankful for the times I have felt love and joy because it gives you hope that you can find that again. Say it out loud. Write it down.

Are you open to meditating? There are so many free guided meditations available on YouTube. On the Calm app. On Headspace. The Chopra app. When I’m sad, mad, tired, excited, confused, curious, need motivation … any feeling you are having there is a meditation for you. In just five minutes your whole chemistry can change. Just try it.

Podcasts! Oh my gosh. The wealth of knowledge out there at your fingertips is astounding. Maybe you want to learn a new trade, or hear how others deal with a certain problem, or you are simply in the mood to laugh. Find some podcasts that speak to you and they can immediately take you out of your head and give you a new perspective.

Are you celebrating all the little accomplishments in your life? It’s easy to compare your life to others and want the big things all

the time. It takes a lot of baby steps to get there. The little moments are just as important as the big moments. Did your teen share something with you today? Celebrate that! Did your kids hug you? Fantastic! Did you get outside and enjoy the sun for a little bit? Excellent. Acknowledge the little things that bring you joy and the big things will follow.

Here is my biggest discovery this year. PAUSE. We are so busy. Ask anyone how they are and they say: busy. Being busy doesn’t measure how well your life is going. Being busy doesn’t equal a full life. Not being busy doesn’t mean that something is wrong. I know being busy is a very real thing. Try taking a deep breath and looking at how you are spending your time. Are you being intentional with your valuable minutes each day? Where can you say no more often so that you have more time for you?

Life is hard. Life is also a journey where the hard moments make the good moments so much more wonderful. Give yourself a break and appreciate all you do and all that you are to others. I’m sure it’s more impactful than you will ever know.

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

Adobe Stock photo

EVENTS

December 8 & 9

March 9

Right in the Eye

Come to the Broomfield Auditorium on March 9 at 7:00 p.m. to see Right in the Eye, a magical concert featuring 3 musicians, 50 instruments, and 11 of George Méliès’ iconic silent films. The production is celebrating 10 years and over 700 performances, so don’t miss the one-night-only show! JeanFrançois Alcoléa, great-great-granddaughter of the legendary filmmaker, has crafted a magical show with multi-layered and inventive scores to highlight the iconic films. Tickets are free and more information can be found at compass.broomfield.org.

December 8 & 9

March 15

Heart of Broomfield Nomination Deadline

This will be the 23rd year that Broomfield Community Foundation will recognize residents for positively impacting our community by awarding selected nominees with a Heart of Broomfield Award. Nominate someone who has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in Broomfield by donating their time and talent, or sharing their life’s work. The award categories are the Heart and Soul Award, Heart of Gold Group Award, and the Enduring Heart Lifetime Achievement Award. The deadline for nominations is March 15 and the Heart of Broomfield Awards will be hosted on June 7. Submit a nomination at broomfieldfoundation.org/heart.

Colorado Repertory Singers’ annual Educational Masterwork Collaboration returns, connecting with student musicians and supporting music educators. They will bring to life Dan Forrest’s Jubilate Deo, which focuses on the global aspect of the traditional Psalm 100 text by setting it in seven different languages and a spectrum of musical influences. The event is at 7:30 p.m. at the Central Presbyterian Church of Denver. For information and tickets visit

https://www.coloradorepertorysingers.org/

March 21-25

5280 Westival 2024

5280 Westival is a blend of learning, fun, and making new friends. Join the engaging atmosphere in a beautiful location to see the best talent in the global West Coast Swing dance community. You won’t want to miss the Saturday S’mores Bar, Leveled Workshops, and Late Night Social Dancing with talented DJs. The festival will be hosted at Aloft Broomfield from March 21 to 25. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit 5280westival.com.

March 30

Tumbledown Shack

“Live on the Lanes”

Tumbledown Shack, a 5-piece Grateful Dead cover band, will be Live on the Lanes at 100 Nickel on March 30 at 7:30 p.m. Come for the band, stay for food, drinks and bowling! Standing room only along the concourse of the venue, with special concert pricing for unlimited bowling during the show. General admission tickets are $10 and do not include bowling, food, or drinks and can be purchased at etix.com by searching Tumbledown Shack.

High Art and Classic Film

Come Together with French Group Alcolea & Cie

By The City and County of Broomfield

Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime immersive artistic experience coming to Broomfield! Internationally celebrated, multidisciplinary French-based musical trio Alcoléa and Cie are presenting an immersive concert and cinematic experience called “Right in the Eye.” Performances and workshops of Right in the Eye are free of charge and will take place Saturday and Sunday, March 9 and 10.

Right in the Eye consists of 12 short films from the early 20th century accompanied by the musical trio playing 50 different musical instruments as a soundtrack, including rare, unique, and hand-built instruments. The short films are from the “Father of Special Effects,” Georges Méliès. You may know this master of early 20th century film from his iconic “A Trip to the Moon” or from the hit 2011 Martin Scorsese movie “Hugo.”

Since 2021, Residence in Artistry has brought acclaimed artists from around the world to Broomfield to give community members the opportunity to experience unique art forms and to work with students across Broomfield in their particular area of expertise.

The visit from and performances by Alcoléa and Cie are part of the Residence in Artistry program, run by the City and County of Broomfield’s (CCOB) Arts and History, a division of the Library, Arts, History, and CSU Extension Department. This visit from Alcoléa and Cie, performances and workshops are completely funded by and supported by Broomfield Arts and History.

Since 2021, Residence in Artistry has brought acclaimed artists from around the world to Broomfield to give community members the opportunity to experience unique art forms and to work with students across Broomfield in their particular area of expertise. Past artists have included Mexican folk band Jarabe Mexicano, eastern European folk band Quarteto Neuvo, public exhibitions and workshops featuring the luminous art of Alberijes Iluminados, and a creative dance performance given by LITVAKdance and the local Wild Heart Dance company.

Enjoy a performance from Broomfield's 2024 Residence in Artistry, Alcoléa & Cie. “Right in the Eye” is an immersive concert/cinematic experience comprised of twelve short films by Georges Méliès.

This year, French artists Alcoléa and Cie will be working with middle and high school students to teach them about music, creativity, and multimedia art.

The Broomfield Library will be hosting two interactive workshops Saturday, March 9 at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. These are great opportunities for the whole family to participate in Right in the Eye, learning about early cinema special effects techniques and how the film industry built upon and continues to use similar techniques in today’s movies. Also learn about how sound and music can change the tone of a film and the significance of sound in cinema. Registration is highly recommended as space is limited. Registration is available at Broomfield.org/RightInTheEye.

Alcoléa & Cie will be performing two shows at the Broomfield Auditorium: Saturday, March 9 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, March 10 at 2:00 p.m. These shows are free and open to the public. No registration is required, with seating available until filled.

To learn more about Alcoléa & Cie and their performances in Broomfield, Broomfield Arts and History’s Residences in Artistry program, and to register for the workshops, visit Broomfield.org/RightInTheEye.

To register for the workshops, visit Broomfield.org/RightInTheEye.

Courtesy photo

North Metro

Heroes Growing Heroes

By Bette Erickson

Many of us take our comfort and safety for granted. But those conveniences don’t materialize out of nowhere. Often our safety and well-being are the result of dozens of behind-the-scenes unsung heroes – such as the North Metro Fire Rescue District (NMFRD) firefighters and their peers.

The NMFRD is an all-hazards fire district providing fire suppression, emergency medical services and patient transportation, hazardous materials response, technical rescue, wildland firefighting, airport operations, and community risk reduction.

NMFRD has seven fire stations that serve residents in Broomfield, Northglenn, and unincorporated areas of Adams, Boulder, Jefferson, and Weld counties. The fire district also has a large Training Center Complex and Headquarters building to serve the community.

The Training Division coordinates all internal and external training for North Metro Fire personnel. In addition, this division is also responsible for providing training opportunities to outside agencies as well.

Currently the spring North Area Fire Academy (NAFA) is underway. This comprises six participating agencies in the north metro area with 30 trainees, of which NMFRD has nine trainees. The academy occurs twice a year, in the spring and in the fall. The first eight weeks include preparing for the emergency medical technician (EMT) certification, followed by fire academy training beginning in mid-March through the end of July.

Of the 30 firefighter hopefuls there’s usually an approximate 10% dropout rate, explained Rob Morris, Division Chief of Training with NMFRD.

“The training is rigorous,” he said. “The dropout rate varies from one training to the next because there are people who’ve never been exposed to firefighting or medical emergency situations.”

Academy participants graduate with EMT certificates, and some go on to complete a more extensive and in-depth medical training to become paramedics. Firefighters are on probation their first year and it generally takes them three years to acquire a good grasp of the job and really do it well, Morris explained.

According to the NMFRD website, the organization trains all line personnel on a regular basis to ensure firefighters can continue to improve their skills. Training provides the tools necessary to deal with any emergency that a community faces.

The fire district serves more than 125,000 residents in Broomfield, Northglenn, and unincorporated areas of five counties, including nearly 60 square miles of commercial and residential space, highways, and the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport.

North Area Fire Academy

Courtesy Photo

North Metro Fire Rescue District is a special district governed by an elected board of directors. Each board member serves a four-year term and is limited to three consecutive terms.

"For the most part, training is challenging,” said Patrick Browne, NMFRD Board member and retired firefighter/paramedic. “But it’s important because advanced training could save your life, your fellow firefighter’s life or members of the public.”

NAFA training includes such instances as cardiac arrest scenarios and establishing and maintaining an airway, to fire suppression and so much more. Browne added, “Training makes you efficient at any job, really.”

Since 1946, North Metro Fire Rescue District has served to protect its citizens and their property with a high level of care, compassion and professionalism. To be sure, North Metro Fire is equipped and committed to ensuring public safety and a robust training program is a critical aspect. Bette Erickson writes about people, places, and events. Contact her at bette_erickson@hotmail.com.

North Metro Fire Rescue District

offers its employees generous benefits, a pension, wellness programs, and tuition assistance.

For more information about the NMFRD team or to learn about the next North Area Fire Academy (NAFA) in the fall, visit: www. northmetrofire.org/481/Join-Our-Team, or call 303-452-9910.

At left, the spring North Area Fire Academy (NAFA) is currently underway. The program comprises six participating agencies in the north metro area with 30 trainees, of which NMFRD has nine trainees. NMFRD courtesy photo

North Area Fire Academy Courtesy Photo

North Area Fire Academy Courtesy Photo

JAM! JAM !

BHS

Community Prepares for Annual, Safe

After Prom Extravaganza

By Missy Ruzicka

Spring is just around the corner and that means it’s crunch time for the parents and community volunteers who put together Broomfield High School’s biggest social event of the season … JAM! Just After Midnight, or JAM, is BHS’s After Prom spectacular; a drug and alcohol-free event for all junior and senior students and their dates.

The beloved tradition started in 1990, when a few moms and some teachers got together and came up with a unique way to keep their kids safe on prom night. Thirty-four incredible years later and the event has grown to 100s of volunteers and each year demonstrates the amazing generosity of the Broomfield community who donate time and money to make the event a success. The designing, decorating, and staging is made possible with the time and talents of more than 400 volunteers working alongside event co-chairs Erika Pazol and Heather Dunham. After months of final preparations, on the night of the event, Broomfield High School is transformed into something so magical its halls are not recognizable by its students. Erika said, “The students just love being surprised by the decorating and theme, and then by trying to figure out where they are in the school because it looks so different.”

The theme is always a closely guarded secret which makes it even more special when revealed early the night of JAM from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. during a free community walk through. Broomfield High School’s Prom is scheduled this year for April 13, with JAM following right afterwards from 11:45 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. Students are guaranteed to experience fun activities, amazing prizes, a wide variety of entertainment, lots of food, and even a few surprises; the event ensures a wholesome evening of celebration with friends.

Last year’s theme, “Greatest of All Time” or “G.O.A.T.” was a huge success. When 2023 graduate Layla Gallegos was asked about

JAM she said, “My favorite part last year was the “Greatest Music Artists” room! There were life-sized displays of album covers we could take pictures in, and it was super fun to jam out to the music they played in that room!” On average 90% of Broomfield High junior and senior students attend the free extravaganza each year. This year the school will be filled with large inflatables, a casino, a balloon artist, arcade games, caricature and henna artists, a photo booth, and prizes galore. The prize committee is also working hard on collecting excellent prizes that the students will win.

We are so lucky to live in a community that steps up every year to help make sure that this cherished event not only shines but shows the students one of their best nights ever. JAM is 100% funded by donations, sponsors, community members, and many local businesses. Volunteers are still needed for this year’s JAM. Anyone is welcome to volunteer. BHS parents, parents of graduates, alumni, and community members all join forces to help make the amazing event happen every year. Erika adds, “It's been an amazing experience, and, every year, I am so excited for the students to experience JAM!”

Photos from JAM 2023

Broomfield Sister Cities Thrives; Broader Community Participation Sought

By Bette Erickson

In mid January dozens of community members met for a light dinner and informative slideshow presented by coordinators of Broomfield’s Sister City Organization (BSCO). The newly minted non-profit, BSCO, seeks to grow its membership for the purpose of offering participants and exchange students corporate sponsorships, grants, and more.

“We’re hoping to grow the organization with the community’s support,” explained Junko Goodwin, President of the BSCO Board of Directors. “Serving on the Broomfield Sister Cities Organization Board of Directors, becoming a member, volunteering, donating, and sponsorships are all a part of how someone can become involved,” said Ms. Goodwin, an entrepreneur and consultant with 20-plus years in the education of English and Japanese as Second Language.

“Having a Sister City is a fantastic opportunity, especially for young people to experience another culture,” said lifelong resident Tom Brunner, who served on the City Council and as Mayor Pro Tem when Broomfield first entered into its Sister City agreement. “It’s interesting how the Japanese revere their elders and they were enamored with my young son, Kyle, when he traveled to Maruko with me.”

More than two decades ago, in May 2001, the then mayors of Broomfield and Maruko, Japan, signed the first "Friendship City" document.

That "Friendship City" document explained the program's intent:

Provide opportunities for city officials and citizens to experience and explore other cultures through long-term com-

Broomfield Mayor Guyleen Castriotta joined a group of community members in mid-January to discuss goals of the newly formed non-profit, Broomfield Sister Cities Organization. Photo by Bette Erickson/For Our Broomfield

munity partnerships.

Create an atmosphere in which economic and community development can be implemented and strengthened. Stimulate environments through which communities will creatively learn, work, and solve problems together through reciprocal cultural, educational, municipal, business, professional and technical exchanges, and projects.

Just a few years later, in 2005, Maruko and other smaller municipalities merged to become part of the larger community of Ueda, located about 2.5-hours north and west of Tokyo. Broomfield's and Ueda's mayors signed an updated agreement in 2006 under the umbrella of Sister Cities International. A Broomfield City Council Memorandum authorized the agreement that is now in use.

The BSCO Mission states: To promote peace through mutual

respect, understanding, and cooperation by creating diverse cultural, educational, and professional enrichment opportunities for local citizens.

At the January BSCO meeting, Ms. Goodwin explained that the future of BSCO includes engaging Broomfield’s numerous global businesses, expanding cultural exchanges to adult groups, and considering opportunities for additional Sister City affiliations.

For the last 24 years, Broomfield has been hosting Japanese exchange students and also sending Broomfield students to Japan.

“We’ve had a really robust Sister City exchange through these 24 years,” explained former Broomfield mayor Karen Stuart at the January meeting.

This year’s exchange will include middle-schoolers, along with some high-schoolers, chaperones, and city officials. The group will visit Broomfield and the greater metro-area July 30 to August 6. Dates are subject to change slightly once planning is finalized, explained BSCO Boardmember and longtime Sister Cities organizer, Helene Plein-Jewett.

“It's a good opportunity to understand what other cultures are like, because Japan is a totally unique environment,” Mr. Brunner said. One of the original intents of establishing a long-term relationship with Maruko, Japan was to explore economic opportunities, he explained. Interlocken Business Park was newly growing at the time Broomfield entered into its “Friendship City” relationship.

Since its inception, Ueda students have visited Broomfield and Broomfield has sent ambassadors to Ueda, alternating each summer. The Broomfield Sister City Organization successfully continues to focus on the reciprocal cultural and educational exchanges of students, chaperones, and city representatives.

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

From meal planning to customized weekly menus that fit each client’s needs, as well as dietary needs. Let Chef Michael cater your dinner parties and other upcoming events.

Main Dishes to Rave Over

By Lisa Payne

I have something to shout from the rooftop! If you struggle with keeping all of your recipes organized and in one place, I found a solution I love. It’s an app called Recipe Keeper. You pay a ONE time fee of $13. And you can store as many recipes as you want. You can export them, you can share them, and you can organize them however you want. I am obsessed. In my recipe organizing frenzy, I have found a few recipes I can’t wait to share with you. This first one is so flavorful and easy as an appetizer, over a salad or served with rice.

Sangria Glazed Shrimp

Ingredients

• Prawns - 1 pound shrimp (21 to 25 count), cleaned and deveined

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon canola oil

• 1/2 cup diced red onion

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 apple, cored, diced

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Sprigs fresh mint

Directions

Glaze for the Prawns:

• 3/4 cup red wine

• 1/4 cup apple juice

• 1/4 cup orange juice

• 1/4 cup sherry

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 3 tablespoons cold water

Filet Mignon w/Mushrooms & Mustard Sauce Ina

Ingredients

In a small saucepan combine all ingredients except cornstarch and water. On medium-low heat, simmer and reduce mixture by 1/3. In a small sauce bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water. Then whisk into the hot mixture. Turn heat to low and simmer until reduced by half.

In a separate medium saute pan, melt butter and oil. When butter is melted, add onions and peppers. Cook until translucent but not to achieve color. Add apples and prawns, and cook until prawns turn pink. Toss with paprika and glaze. Garnish with fresh mint.

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

Garten

• 2 (2-inch-thick) filets mignons, tied (10 to 12 ounces each)

• 1 tablespoon canola oil

• 2 1/2 teaspoons fleur de sel

• 1 teaspoon coarsely cracked black peppercorns

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 6 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed and sliced 1/4 inch thick

• 1 tablespoon dry sherry

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 teaspoons good olive oil

• 1/4 cup minced shallots

• 1 1/2 tablespoons Cognac or brandy

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 1/4 teaspoon whole-grain mustard

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley leaves

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Be sure your stove is well ventilated! Heat a large (10-inch) cast-iron skillet over high heat for 5 to 7 minutes. Pat the filets dry with paper towels and brush all over with the canola oil. Combine the fleur de sel and cracked pepper on a small plate and roll the filets on the top, bottom and sides in the seasoning, pressing lightly to coat. When the skillet is very hot, add the filets and sear evenly all over (top, bottom, and sides) for about 2 minutes per side. Transfer the steaks from the skillet to a sheet pan (set the skillet aside) and place in the oven for 8 to 12 minutes, until the steaks register 120 degrees F on a meat thermometer for medium rare. Remove from the oven, cover the sheet pan tightly with aluminum foil and allow to rest for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat the butter in a medium (8-inch) saute pan over medium-low heat. Add the mushrooms and saute for 4 to 5 minutes, until they release their juices. Stir in the sherry and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, until the mushrooms are cooked through. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper and set aside.

At the same time, add the olive oil to the cast-iron skillet (don’t wipe it out), add the shallots and cook over medium-low heat for 2 minutes. Add the Cognac, stirring to deglaze the skillet, and cook for 2 minutes, until the Cognac evaporates and the shallots are tender. Stir in the cream and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, until thickened. Stir in the two mustards and taste for seasonings. Remove the strings from the filets and place on a platter. Spoon the mustard sauce around the filets. Spoon the mushrooms on top of the filets and sprinkle with parsley. Serve hot.

Photo: dailymeal.com

Photo: barefootcontessa.com

Guy Fieri

Our Broomfield Celebrates 2023 Favorites Winners at Chipper’s Lanes

Last month, the Our Broomfield staff had the honor of gathering family, friends, key Broomfield partners, and dozens of the 2023 Our Favorites Contest Winners at Broomfield’s Chipper’s Lane to celebrate and recognize the best businesses in Broomfield.

Each fall, Our Broomfield conducts a survey of Favorite Broomfield businesses in numerous business categories. The winners are announced in the January issue. To view the full list of winners and learn more about Our Broomfield’s Our Favorites check out the January issue https://issuu.com/ourbroomfieldmagazine/docs/issuu_ourbroomfield_jan24

*All photos courtesy of Tim Seibert, Flatirons Pro Media.

Shannon and the entire team at Chipper’s were amazing hosts and made the night so fun! Visit Chipper’s with your friends and family and experience their superb service!

Our Broomfield owners Tina and Pat Eichner

Our Winners enjoyed a great night of food, bowling, and games!

Tammy and Tina pose with Christan Parkin, Our Broomfield’s key partner from AdventHealth Avista Foundation.

Tina presents the Best Mexican Food Award to Jesus Guitierrez from 3 Margaritas.

Paul

Shocking Uptick in Young People Being Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer

More and more young people are receiving a diagnosis of advanced colon cancer. In fact, 20,000 people in the US under the age of 50 will be diagnosed just this year.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to understand symptoms, screening protocols, and how to lower your risk.

Dr. Charles Browning

Colorectal cancer encompasses bowel cancer, colon cancer, and rectal cancer, and is the third leading cause of cancer related deaths both worldwide and in the US. In 2021, the age for colorectal cancer screenings was lowered from age 50 to 45. Unfortunately, we continue to see a significant uptick in younger patients who are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Dr. Charles Browning, a colorectal physician with AdventHealth Avista breaks down what you need to know about colorectal cancer. Dr. Browning has seen the increase in younger patients presenting with colon cancer firsthand within his practice.

“Unfortunately, we have been seeing younger patients diagnosed with colon cancer and sadly they often present at advanced stages with aggressive tumors. There has been a significant increase in young colorectal cancer, those diagnosed

below the age of 50, over the last several years,” said Dr. Browning. “Historically, approximately 90% of patients are diagnosed with colorectal cancer at 50 years of age or older and the incidence and mortality rate for those over 50 has continued to decrease. However, for those under 50, both incidence and mortality are on the rise. This has been documented over the last 20 years for unknown reasons. Up to 20% of those with young colorectal cancer are found to have a genetic defect that contributes to the development of the disease. This is the reason the age for screening colonoscopy has been lowered to age 45 from 50.”

Signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer include changes in bowel habits (new onset constipation or diarrhea), blood in stool, changes in caliber of stool, and/or unexplained weight loss and anemia. However, many patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer are asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis which emphasizes the importance of colorectal cancer screenings.

“While there is no one major risk factor for colon cancer, we have observed lifestyle factors that both increase and decrease your risk of colon cancer over your lifetime,” said Dr. Browning. “We have seen that those who smoke, consume alcohol, and eat more red meat have an increased risk. In contrast, factors such as being physically active and eating more whole grains and dairy are protective. By far, the most effective way to prevent colon cancer is to undergo appropriate screening to detect colon

cancer early and treat premalignant lesions. There are many options for screening, including colonoscopy and fecal DNA testing. The advantage of a colonoscopy is that it is both a diagnostic and therapeutic test. This allows the removal of premalignant lesions, helping to prevent colon cancer in that individual.” While family history can play a role in the likelihood of being affected by the disease, it has been found that about 80% of cases are sporadic, meaning no prior family history of colon cancer.

“Sporadic colon cancers develop over time from polyps. Hereditary means that you may have a family history of colon cancer or a genetic predisposition to it. Those with a risk of hereditary colon cancer are at a higher-than-average risk. They should undergo colonoscopy regularly and start at an earlier age based on when the cancer presented in their family,” said Dr. Browning.

Many cases of colorectal cancer can be prevented. We encourage you to speak with your healthcare provider about your risk factors and eligibility for early screening. If you are age 45 or older, be sure to take control of your colon health by ensuring you regularly are being screened.

If you’d like to learn more about the care that Dr. Browning provides or to schedule an appointment, please scan the QR code.

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