May 2024 Our Broomfield™

Cover photo by Pat Eichner

EDITOR FROM THE My Mom

Motherhood changes everything. It has changed my lifestyle, my schedule, my body, my mind, and my heart. I swell with joy when I stare into my child’s sweet face. And I can’t help but hold him closer when I realize he is changing too.

One of the greatest changes in my journey has been my appreciation for the mothers who came before me, but most importantly my own mother. While growing up, I never felt lacking in encouragement, support, or love from my mom. But I never knew the depth of that love until I had my first baby. My son is the sunshine in my life, and I can’t imagine anything I wouldn’t do for his health and happiness. I now understand how my mother feels when she hears stress in my voice through the phone or sees the dark circles under my eyes. She would move mountains to make everything better. Her love is infinite and invincible.

I have known her in many roles, mom being my favorite with grandma being a close second! She is a wife, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, editor, writer, leader, dancer, business owner, philanthropist, volunteer, believer, and so much more. And somehow she does it exceptionally, all at the same time, and makes it look easy.

Her heart is full of passions. Two of the biggest are writing and Broomfield. She grew up here in “Broomstick,” came back after getting her journalism degree, married her high school sweetheart, started a family, grew her connections to the community, and eventually became a voice for Broomfield through this magazine. For as long as I can remember she has given her time and talents to support Broomfield charities, city organizations, and businesses through her skill with words.

When she first proposed starting her own magazine, no one knew how far it would go or how long it would last. But the value she has created goes far beyond a financially successful business. Her work on this publication has uplifted local voices, supported local nonprofits and small businesses, and informed locals of all our great city has to offer. Her love for Broomfield is written in every line on every page. Tina preserves and promotes the character and culture of Broomfield that makes it THE place to call home.

Her love for Broomfield is being recognized on June 7, when she will receive the Enduring Heart Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 Broomfield Community Foundation Heart of Broomfield Ceremony. The lifetime achievement award is for a proven community leader and visionary whose energy, passion, sense of humor, and wisdom have made Broomfield a better place. You would struggle to find a daughter more proud of her mother than me right now.

Please join me in wishing a Happy Mother's Day to all mothers and congratulating all Heart of Broomfield award recipients but especially our beloved editor, Tina Eichner.

Thanks for reading, Megan (Eichner) Mayes

Assistant Editor and Tina’s eldest daughter

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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Expert QuickBooks Accounting Assistance

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ADVERTISING

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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.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

May 3

Migratory Bird Day

Join Broomfield Open Space and Trails in celebrating Migratory Bird Day on Friday, May 3 at 5:00 p.m. in the Lakeshore Room of the Broomfield Community Center. See live raptors, learn about migration, habitat conservation, and pollination. Local groups will promote community conservation activities, and participants can ID birds around Brunner Reservoir. This event is free to the public. Visit Broomfield.org/OpenSpaceandTrails for more information.

May 3

Vintage Voices: Music from the 50s and 60s

Join Key of She Women’s Vocal Group for an evening of all your favorite music from 1950s and 60s. The show will feature hits from the Beatles, the Supremes, Simon & Garfunkel, the Marcels, the Mamas & the Papas, and a guest performance from Harmony Children’s Choir! It'll be a funfilled night of doo-wap & rock, motown & soul – and you won't want to miss it. Stop by the Broomfield Auditorium on Friday, May 3 at 7:00 p.m. The show is free to attend, but a $5 per person recommended donation can help Key of She continue to provide family fun and entertainment.

May 4

Open Space Planting Day

The Broomfield Open Space Action Network comprising the Open Space and Trails Department, Broomfield Open

Space Foundation, and the Butterfly Pavilion's Urban Prairie Project and the Sister Cities/Confluence are hosting Metzger Farms Open Space Planting Day. The event will honor the Cheyenne, Arapahoe, and Ute tribes by planting chokecherries, a keystone species, which supports pollinators and humans. Meet at the Commons Trailhead parking lot at 12955 Lowell Blvd. on Saturday, May 4 at 9:00 a.m. To learn more or to sign up for the event please visit broomfield.volunteerhub.com today.

May 7, 14 & 28

Palliative Care 101

Are you or someone you love facing a serious illness? Judy Knudson, a practitioner and professor of palliative care, will share resources and topics to assist in your journey. This series will cover the framework for palliative care, pain and symptom management, communication tips in healthcare settings, and advance directives. Sessions will take place on Tuesdays at the Broomfield Library Eisenhower Meeting Room from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This program is free to attend and does not require registration.

May 11

Stamp out Hunger Food Drive

Help FISH "STAMP OUT HUNGER" during the National Association of Letter Carriers’ food drive on Saturday, May 11! Look for the Stamp Out Hunger bags in the mail, fill them with non-perishable food donations, and leave them by your mailbox for your postal carrier to collect. You can also provide consistent funds to support families at times when it is most needed, with giving options starting at $5 per month. Donations of food and money help feed families in need in our community through unexpected life events and hardships. Learn more at www.broomfieldfish.org/events.

May 11

BSO Presents Winners of the Young Artist Competition

The BSO presents the winners of the Annual Young Artist competition and Music of the Baroque. Baroque selections include several favorites from Bach such as the Little Fugue, the Passacaglia and Fugue, and ContraPunctus No. 1 and 9. Also the Purcell woodwind suite! The concert is at 7:30 p.m. at the Broomfield Auditorium. For tickets and more information visit broomfieldsymphony.org.

May 12

WeatherTech Car Show

Meet fellow car enthusiasts at WeatherTech for another great car show and open house on the second Sunday of every month from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The state-of-the-art showroom and store are located at 8741 Destination Way. If you have not visited yet, this is a great opportunity to see what WeatherTech can do for your car, home, and pets. Stop by to see the show cars or come and show off your own car! There will be food trucks and please feel free to bring your furry friends. www.weathertech.com

Taylor Gold West,

BUSY FAMILIES Good Mother? What Makes a

ABy Lisa Payne

s Mother’s Day approaches, I tend to reflect on my worth as a mother. Have I done enough, seen enough, felt enough, shown enough, grown enough, cleaned enough, made enough healthy meals? Was I a good role model this past year? How many regrets do I have and what could I have done better? Were all the other mothers in this world out performing me? And why should it even matter what other mothers are doing? In other words I beat myself up and feel a lot of shame when I would rather be looking at all the positive things I have done. Why is it so hard to see all the good?

It’s easy to be overwhelmed by motherhood. When I first had my children, I didn’t realize how at the same instant I could feel so much love for someone and feel so incredibly exhausted and irritated at the same time. It was always two extremes. There is complete joy in watching your baby squeal with delight one minute and instant defeat when they diarrhea up their back in their church clothes on the way out the door. There are all of the proud tears when they do well in school and seem really happy, and the next day the gut-wrenching tears when they share how mean friends can be and how lonely they feel. I was not prepared for any of this. It’s a constant guessing game and it’s easy to always wonder if we are being a good enough mother.

It took me some time to realize that my worth as a mother doesn’t come from worrying enough or buying enough or wondering if I am keeping up with all the other moms. It doesn’t matter the clothes they wear or the presents they receive. At the end of the day of all of the doing and driving and laughing and crying, what makes me a good mother is

my connection with my children. They don’t care how fancy the lunchbox food is, but they feel really loved by a note I stick in there. They don’t care if we buy them a trampoline to go play on, but they light up from within when I go jump on it with them. They know their dad and I love each other, but they gain security knowing we go on date night each week so that we can “keep the love alive” which enables us to be better parents to them. It’s being able to apologize to my kids when I’ve yelled too much. It’s playing the Headbands game together and that last cuddle at night. I’ve realized it’s all the small things I do for my children that matter the most.

Try asking your children tonight what makes you a good mom. You may be pleasantly surprised by their answer. Better yet keep a Mother’s Day journal and have them write their favorite thing about you in it each year. My husband started that for me years ago and it is my favorite thing to look back at each year. It reminds me that it is always my unconditional love and dedicated time with them that makes me a good mother. Both are free and both create that connection I crave.

Happy Mother’s Day! I wish you a day filled with enjoying the simple things.

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

Adobe Stock

May 17 & 18

Songs from the Stage and Screen

Colorado Repertory Singers will be at the Broomfield Auditorium on May 17 and 18 to perform a new show called Songs from the Stage and Screen. We live in a world of intersecting cultures and there is no better example of this reality than the stories that captivate and entertain us through our TVs, at the movies, and in the theater. This show will include pop songs and Broadway tunes, but also classical, jazz, and folk music. Show times are Friday the 17 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday the 18 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $16 at crs.ticketleap.com/ songs-from-stage-screen-2024.

May 19

Chadash Dance Presents Extraordinarily Ordinary

Chadash Contemporary Dance Movement is presenting a spring recital titled Extraordinarily Ordinary. Performances will be Sunday, May 19 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at 11355 Sheridan Boulevard. Preprofessional CDI dancers and professional Chadash dancers will tell a beautiful story of how a mother and daughter become immersed in a tale of a fantastical prince when they begin finding bottled notes that wash ashore in their small coastal town. Purchase tickets at events. humanitix.com/extraordinarily-ordinary.

Treated:

June 1 & 2

Broomfield Art Guild Show and Sale

The Broomfield Art Guild and Anthem Ranch are presenting an Art Show and Sale, Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Visit the Anthem Lodge, 16151 Lowell Blvd, to admire and purchase original artwork in Watercolor, Oil, Acrylic, Pastel, Mixed Media, Digital Art, Pottery, and Jewelry. Admission is free, refreshments will be served, and there will be hourly prize drawings.

June 8

iTrade Health, Wellness, and Beauty Fair

Come enjoy refreshments and visit local vendors at the iTrade Colorado Health, Wellness, and Beauty Fair on Saturday, June 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. There will be demos of the latest products and giveaways for attendees! Stop by the fair at Gap2Gap located at 4650 W. 120th Ave. in Westminster, you don't want to miss it. For more information regarding the event contact Adam at 303-945-2449.

Just point and junk disappears.

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• Our team does all the work and cleans up

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• Same day ser vice that arrives on time at your home or business

Housing Programs in Broomfield

By The City and County of Broomfield

Homeowners and renters across Broomfield: You may be eligible for a variety of programs designed to assist Broomfield residents across various stages of renting and home ownership. The City and County of Broomfield (CCOB) Housing Division has programs assisting with housing payments, generating additional income, legal counseling, and some rehabilitation assistance for homeowners. The programs include the Partial Property Tax Refund Program, Home Rehab Program, Paint-a-thon, Sunshine Home Share, Down Payment Assistance Program, and Colorado Legal Services. All program information is available at Broomfield.org/HousingPrograms.

The Partial Property Tax Refund Program is available for Broomfield residents who are homeowners who have lived in their homes for at least two years, meet certain income qualifications and belong to one or more of the following categories: seniors (aged 65 and older), veterans with at least 80% documented disability, residents with 100% documented disability, and surviving spouses.

Are you a homeowner with a home in need of an urgent repair? Single-family homes with up to 80% area median income (AMI), mobile homeowners, and condo owners may qualify for a one-time emergency repair through the Home Rehab Program. Home repairs can include roof repair, gutters, plumbing, electrical, furnace replacement, and more.

Qualifying Broomfield residents can apply to be a part of Broomfield and Brothers Redevelopment Paint-a-thon Program. Paint-a-thon volunteers provide free exterior painting, minor exterior repairs, and yard work to selected homes. Apply for approval today to get selected as soon as possible.

If you are a senior (55 and older) or an individual looking for affordable housing, you may be interested in the Sunshine Home Share Colorado Program. The program is designed for senior homeowners who have extra space in their homes and who would like to generate income and receive assistance with basic household chores while providing someone with affordable rental space. Those seeking

If you are a senior (55 and older) or an individual looking for affordable housing, you may be interested in the Sunshine Home Share Colorado Program.

affordable rental space may be any age, but must pass several background checks and interviews for security purposes.

Homebuyers up to 120% area median income (AMI) may qualify for the Down Payment Assistance program. Homebuyers who fit into the salary parameters can receive a loan with no annual interest, not to exceed 10% of the purchase price. CCOB is coordinating with Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation, to make the Down Payment Assistance program available to Broomfield residents.

Are you experiencing a housing dispute? Qualifying residents may be able to receive free legal assistance related to housing disputes through Colorado Legal Services. The program is aimed at providing essential legal assistance and includes: legal support for eviction cases, tenant and landlord legal counseling, on-site counseling at Broomfield courts, and remote counseling options.

Learn more about these programs and to apply for specific qualifying programs visit Broomfield.org/HousingPrograms.

at Broomfield.org/HousingPrograms.

Merging the Science Between Nutrition & Fitness

Are you Ready for a Health and Fitness Program Focused on

Nutri-Fit by Natalie

https://nutrifitbynatalie.com/ nataliesnutrifit@gmail.com

12005 N. Pecos St. • Westminster 80234

ATTENTION LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS!

iTrade Colorado Health, Wellness and Beauty Fair Enjoy refreshments and visit local vendors sharing the latest in health, wellness and beauty. Demos, GIVEAWAYS and more!

Gap2Gap at 4650 W. 120th Avenue Suite 200 in Westminster! Businesses: Call NOW to be a part of this event! Contact Adam at 303-945-2449 regarding the event or vendor information.

Register for our Summer Camps Today! Half and full-day camps are available for ages 6-12!

Audition slots for our Summer Show, The Doctor in Wonderland, are available May 6th and 7th!

To sign up for Auditions or Summer Camps head on over to the link below! www.backstorytheatre.org/bsta-classes

Plan a Mother’s Day Outing

to Nearby Heil Valley Ranch

By Bette Erickson

Nothing says good parenting more than an adult child asking to hang out with his parents. Each Mother’s Day my son will call and ask, “What do you want to do for Mother’s Day?” Always, my reply is, “Hike.”

A couple years ago I suggested Boulder County’s Heil Valley Ranch. It’s a good trail for most ages and abilities and it’s nearby. The attraction for some to the area is the no-dog rule. Heil’s 4,923-acreage is a designated wildlife habitat so dogs are not permitted. Both Heil Valley Ranch and Caribou Ranch, I’m told, are two of the only places along the Front Range where a couple of elk herds migrate from the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area each winter. When hiking here I generally take the Wapiti Trail at 2.5 miles one way, connecting with the 2.6 mile Ponderosa Loop making the expedition a pleasant 7.6 miles. There is also an ideal family-friendly, one-mile Lichen Loop near the

ROAM WITH A VIEW: About midway through the rustic and roomy 7.6 mile Ponderosa Loop at Heil Valley Ranch visitors are treated to sweeping views of U.S. Forest Service and private lands to the north. Bette Erickson/For Our Broomfield

trailhead, picnic shelters, and public facilities. But this short loop is better suited to out of town flatlanders, or families with small children.

To take the longer route, go north from the trailhead along an old jeep road and veer left onto Wapiti Trail passing a large prairie dog colony. You’ll quickly wind into the forest, encountering the steepest part of the hike. Further north near the Dakota hogback ridge you’ll cross another service road and come upon some sandstone ruins of a building. Continuing on, the Ponderosa Loop forks right and left offering a relatively flat 2.6-mile roundabout. Midway through, be sure to stop at the Overlook, surely the most scenic part of this area as you make your way back to the trailhead.

The loop described here is a good family hike with kids 10-years-old or older.

Ahhh, but isn’t age a sneaky thief? Just when you’re getting your groove, it stiffens your knees and mercilessly slows your metabolism. It causes mysterious aches and muddies your mind and threatens your life with pain and disease.

I lean into the mirror to look past my crinkled eyelids into the green pool of my eyes and try to see past my age. Where did I go? Why does this aging thing happen so fast? Out on trails I’ve noticed it’s infrequent to see hikers older than me. My doctor says I’m in great shape. But he goes in for the kill, “For a woman your age.”

Mother’s Day invariably causes me to reminisce. I taught my son and daughter how to ski, play tennis, hike,

and more. As adults they are entering their prime and suffice it to say, I’m leaving mine. For now we can still enjoy the trail together.

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

To the trailhead: Take US 36 from Broomfield and continue north as it becomes 28th Street. Turn left (west) off of northbound Foothills Highway to Lefthand Canyon, taking a right at the Heil Valley Ranch sign on Geer Canyon Drive. Slowly drive up the short dirt road to the trailhead parking.

• Distance: 7.6 miles roundtrip

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Elevation gain: 800 feet

• Dogs: No

• Hours: Heil Valley Ranch is open from sunrise to sunset.

• Information: Boulder County Parks & Open Space, (303) 441-3950

Dep ting Decemb 4-11, 2025

Christmas is undeniable. Venture to the Alpine village of Seefeld via train; partake in the traditional taste of schnapps before you're whisked away on an actual horse-drawn Christmas sleigh. Head to Salzburg for an expert-guided walking tour and delight in dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter's restaurant. Embark on the journey of a lifetime in this winter wonderland, where twinkling lights illuminate entire regions, and the spirit of Christmas is alive and well.

Heil Valley Ranch map courtesy of Boulder County Parks & Open Space.

Summer Reading Program Kicks Off this Month

TBy Missy Ruzicka

he days are getting warmer and the sun seems to be shining a little brighter, all as the school year is coming to a close. No need for minds to go idle; the Broomfield Library’s summer program kicks off at the end of the month with a calendar filled with activities igniting the imaginations of the young and old alike. From thrilling tales to captivating workshops, the library’s summer lineup promises to be an exciting journey for all.

This year’s theme is Adventure Begins at Your Library and is designed for book lovers aged 0-100. Participants can register at www.beanstack.broomfield.org on May 1, and join the big summer kickoff parties at the end of May. Once registered on beanstack, readers will see all of the activities and reading challenges as well as being able to log each day’s reading in June and July.

Adventurers journeying through pages of new books get to explore new literary landscapes while earning points and prizes along the way; everything from coveted library swag, to gift certificates from generous donors like Chipper’s Lanes and the Broomfield Recreation Center. Mix and match activities and reading to create your own summer adventure and when you’ve logged and completed 20 readings and or activities you can come into the library to claim your prize!

Perhaps the greatest reward is a sense of camaraderie and community that the library events and programs provide. May 31 is the summer kickoff parties for kids and teens of Broomfield. Kids, ages birth to elementary school and their families can enjoy giant bubbles, yard games, and get hands on nature outdoors next to the library from 10:00 a.m. to

1:00 p.m. Community teens are invited to a summer kickoff party in the library’s makerspace, inventHQ, to enjoy snacks, crafts, and fun activities from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. In a world filled with screens and distractions, these programs offer a welcome opportunity to unplug, engage with others, and rediscover the joy of reading.

Alongside the Adventure Begins at Your Library summer program, the library has a multitude of events, classes, tutoring programs, and workshops to fill up the summer and maybe try something new. Outcast knitters, Dungeons and Dragons, and Master Gardeners are just some of the clubs that meet weekly. For those with a thirst for knowledge, the library offers informative workshops including Maximizing your Social Security, and Workforce Services; these events

In a world filled with screens and distractions, these programs offer a welcome opportunity to unplug, engage with others, and rediscover the joy of reading.

not only educate but foster a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

There also is the ever popular 52 Week Reading Challenge sponsored by the library, where every week you can pick a random prompt that can lead you to your next favorite read! Everything from ‘books based in Colorado,’ ‘books about mythical creatures,’ or ‘books with a blue cover.’ From Sci-fi sagas to historical epics, the 52 Week Reading Challenge caters to a wide array of literary tastes, ensuring every reader finds their niche.

Whether you're seeking thrills, knowledge, or simply a bit of summer fun, the library's summer lineup has something for everyone. So, get ready to dive into a world of imagination and excitement at the Broomfield Library this summer.

For more information visit www. broomfield.org.

Broomfield Veterans Museum plans Memorial Day event, new exhibit

By Kristen Beckman

Every May, the nation pauses to honor the men and women who have died in service to the United States. Memorial Day, which will be observed this year on May 27, dates back to the post-Civil War era when citizens would place spring flower memorials on the graves of fallen soldiers. The practice of decorating veterans’ graves with flowers became known as Decoration Day. The federal government officially changed the day’s name to Memorial Day in 1967,

The Broomfield Veterans Museum marks this important day with an event that allows the community to come together to remember those who served. The City and County of Broomfield’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony and Picnic begins at 11:00 a.m. on May 27 at the Broomfield County Commons Park. The event will feature the North Metro and Broomfield Police Department Honor Guard and include honoring of Gold Star families, remarks from the Mayor, a keynote speech, patriotic music from the Broomfield Civic Chorus and Rocky Mountain Brassworks, activities and displays from local reenactor groups, a flyover (weather permitting), and hamburgers for sale from the Broomfield Crossing Rotary.

The event is one of several activities the Veterans Museum engages in throughout the year in addition to its core on-site offerings.

In June, the Broomfield Veterans Museum will join with the North Metro Fire Rescue District to retire American flags during an official ceremony according to military tradition. Community members are invited to observe the ceremony at noon on June 15. A hot dog picnic will also be provided. Flags to be retired can be dropped off at the museum or fire department.

New Exhibit

The museum’s mission is to preserve the memories of America’s military history and strengthen the bonds to the community by facilitating the stories of veterans through displays and artifacts for the benefit and education of generations to come.

The museum is preparing to change out its main exhibit this month. The current exhibit, which will be on display until May 15, highlights the 10th Mountain Division, which trained for mountain and winter warfare at Camp Hale near Leadville. Deployed in the mountains of Italy during World War II, the division never lost a battle but did lose 1,000 men. Many of the division's veterans started Colorado ski areas and resorts, including Vail, Aspen, and A-Basin. The display includes skis,

The museum is preparing to change out its main exhibit this month. The current exhibit, which will be on display until May 15, highlights the 10th Mountain Division. Courtesy Broomfield Veterans Museum

Living History Day on April 16. Courtesy Broomfield Veterans Museum

snowshoes and footwear, and specialized clothing developed for cold weather.

The new exhibit commemorates the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion at Normandy, France, and the role played by the 4th Infantry Division, which was commanded by Colorado-born Major General Raymond Barton. Under Barton’s command, the 4th Infantry Division was involved in D-Day at Utah Beach, the Battle of Normandy, the Liberation of Paris and the Battle of Hurtgen Forest. Today the division is based at Fort Carson.

The Museum also continues its popular Coffee & Conversations series, which features presentations about military events, people, and places of significance. In May, planned talks include Colleen Sawyer telling the story of Eleanor Roosevelt, one of the most influential women of the 20th century. In addition, Chief Master Sergeant Charles Apodoca will give an orientation on the mission of the new U.S. Space Force Branch.

The Veterans Museum Broomfield is located at 12 Garden Center, on Midway Boulevard and is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is free.

For more information, call the museum at 303-460-6801 or visit www.broomfieldveterans.org.

Images from Living History Day on April

16. Courtesy Broomfield Veterans Museum

Reflections from Local High School Graduates

Congratulations to the Class of 2024

Editor’s Note:

In the spirit of providing opportunities to give our young people a voice and a platform, Our Broomfield is pleased to continue a tradition. Each year, we look forward to inviting one senior from each of our three primary local high schools to share a reflection on growing up in Broomfield and their high school career on behalf of their class. We thank this year’s seniors for their thought provoking columns, and the entire staff of Our Broomfield sends all 2024 graduates sincere congratulations and best wishes for the future.

Mia Rich Broomfield High School

At Broomfield, you start your first day of high school entering through a spirit tunnel of your peers, teachers, and staff. You step into the school quite literally surrounded by a community bursting with joy and anticipation that you have arrived.

Despite the nerves and overthinking that accompany being a fourteen-year-old freshman, you can’t help but feel excited. You feel the energy of the spirit tunnel around you and something in the back of your mind tells you, “We’re going to be okay.”

I felt this sense of community the day I stepped into the building, and to this day, it has never faltered. I have felt so much pride spending my high school career at Broomfield. We don’t care about just our friends, our class, or even our school, we come together because we care about this unique community. We build connections that will last long beyond when we walk out of these walls.

Whether it's showing up to a football game, dressing up for WISH week, or echoing back to Mrs. Ramsey, “It’s a great day…to be an eagle,” we take pride in what it means to go to Broomfield. In the face of adversity, we stick together, because we understand the importance of finding a home with others around us. As a class, we’ve faced numerous losses, hardships, and setbacks. We have laughed together, we have grieved together, we have grown together, but at the end of the day, we have come together to form a special bond.

We don’t care about just our friends, our class, or even our school, we come together because we care about this unique community. We build connections that will last long beyond when we walk out of these walls.

As I begin my next journey, another chapter comes to a close. I will no longer see the same faces in the hallway that I’ve seen since kindergarten, drive down Eagle Way two times a day, or be able to say “my school” when referring to Broomfield. Regardless, Broomfield will always be my home. When I walk out of the school for the final time, I will leave as I entered four years ago, surrounded by a spirit tunnel of my peers, teachers, and staff. I will be reminded one last time of the love, support, and community that radiates from the school. I will be able to feel that the place that once felt so foreign and scary, has turned into a place I call home. So, no matter how far I go or where I end up, I will always be proud to say I went to Broomfield High School.

After graduation, Mia plans to attend Georgetown University to study International Politics.

As we graduate, a storm of change and uncertainty awaits. But rather than fear or anxiety, we should view this storm as a new beginning. While we may lack the ability to alter the adversities that lie ahead, we have full control of how we respond.

Madeline Nguyen

Legacy High School

After four years of chanting “Sko Bolts!” at football games and pep rallies, I realized a lightning bolt perfectly encompasses what it means to be in the class of 2024.

Lightning is unpredictable: a trait that mirrored the uncertainty of freshman year. We found ourselves isolated. Our endless bike rides, toilet paper shortages, and Tiktok’s whipped coffee trends hardly resembled the High School Musical experience I had envisioned. I yearned for a bolt of lightning to strike me down in every breakout room. Yet, freshman year did not diminish our hope. We learned resilience early on.

Additionally, lightning has a tendency to branch out to its surroundings. Sophomore year similarly allowed us to connect with one another through in-person learning. We experienced moments like football games and an actual homecoming. With our new driver’s license in hand, we relished our independence and freedom. Sophomore year was a return to normalcy, marked by meaningful connections and cherished memories.

Lightning is also resilient: it perseveres through storms and harsh weather. If anything is more resilient than lightning, it was us junior year. With college on the horizon we felt the pressure to excel academically, while also being distracted by extracurricular activities, standardized testing, AP classes, and sports. We learned that self-improvement and growth only comes from moments of grit, failure, and discomfort.

Lastly, lightning is most known for its astonishing velocity. I used to think it was clichéd when people would say “senior year goes by so fast” — but we’ve truly moved at lightning speed because we now find ourselves at graduation.

And what happens after the lightning? The storm. As we graduate, a storm of change and uncertainty awaits. But rather than fear or anxiety, we should view this storm as a new beginning. While we may lack the ability to alter the adversities that lie ahead, we have full control of how we respond.

We will embody our lightning ways on our next journey. Just as lightning illuminates the darkness, we will brighten our communities with our unique perspectives and ideas to spark change and progress. Just as lightning knows no bounds, we will enter the next chapter with fearlessness and pursue each dream with unwavering confidence.

Beyond just receiving a diploma, we've gained invaluable lessons in adapting to the unpredictable, cherished memories with our closest friends, and a resilience that will accompany us throughout our lives. I’ll end with a final: SKO BOLTS!

After graduation, Madeline will be attending the University of Arizona to study Dance and Physiology.

Most importantly, while our teachers encouraged good grades, they always reminded us that our grades do not define us. Our character and how we treat others matter significantly more than the letters on our report cards

Reagan Mraz Holy Family High School

The last four years have been a journey for the class of 2024. While the scenery of Holy Family has remained unchanged, we, the travelers, have been transformed. At the start of our journey in 2020, our freshman selves sported face masks and traversed one-way hallways, just grateful to be in-person learning amidst the Covid-19 era. We were adolescents stepping into an entirely new world of opportunity and responsibility. Now, as graduating seniors, we look forward to similar scenes on a grander scale.

By educating the mind, body, and spirit, Holy Family has prepared us to venture out into the world as mature young adults. Our teachers have pushed us academically and urged us to think for ourselves. While it was difficult to appreciate the seemingly endless hours of homework in the moment, it truly has benefited us. Deadlines and high standards have forced us to develop time management skills and establish personal accountability. The work ethic instilled in us will serve us well in our future endeavors. Anything is achievable if we devote enough energy to it.

Most importantly, while our teachers encouraged good grades, they always reminded us that our grades do not define us. Our character and how we treat others matter significantly more than the letters on our report cards. The values that Holy Family has fostered in us should help guide us through the rest of our lives. We hope to spread kindness and embody integrity as we move beyond the walls of Holy Family High School.

The lessons we learned outside the classroom are just as valuable. The community of Holy Family constantly reminds each of its members that we are never alone in our struggles. Amidst the health scares of Covid and the loss of homes in the Marshall Fire, people were immediately eager to lend a helping hand. Community projects amplify individual efforts and attain benefits beyond anything any one person could accomplish. No matter the circumstances, we stand together. May we carry that spirit of generosity to our future communities.

I am very grateful for Holy Family’s influence on my life. I am so excited to step into the next phase of my journey, knowing that I have been equipped with a strong head and a good heart.

In the fall, Reagan will begin the next part of her educational journey studying biochemistry at Creighton University.

Community Leaders, Volunteers Recognized with Heart of Broomfield Awards

By Kristen Beckman

This year’s Heart of Broomfield recipients include a lifelong resident who tells the stories of the community, a group of volunteers who serve the community through their woodworking skills, and a prolific volunteer who encourages others to follow in her footsteps. The annual awards recognize outstanding individuals who have left an indelible mark on the City and County of Broomfield.

Recipients will be recognized at a breakfast reception Friday, June 7, at Chateaux at Fox Meadows and the general public is encouraged to join the celebration.

For the 23rd year of the awards, the Broomfield Community Foundation elected to focus on three categories rather than the eight awards it has given in the past. It also is expanding its awards reception to include eight scholarship recipients and introducing the successful Youth Advisory Council program that includes high-school students in Broomfield and the surrounding areas who support local nonprofits and charities through fundraising, grant making and volunteering.

Following are this year’s recipients.

ENDURING HEART LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

– Tina

Eichner

A lifetime achievement award for a proven community leader and visionary whose energy, passion, sense of humor and wisdom

has made Broomfield a better place.

Broomfield has always been a special place to lifelong resident Tina Eichner. It is where she grew up among family members who still live in the community, where she met her husband and where they raised their two daughters, and where she has nurtured a multitude of friendships. Eichner hasn’t just lived in Broomfield, she has helped enrich the fabric of the community by sharing its stories, supporting local organizations, and uplifting Broomfield’s most established residents and newest neighbors.

With a background in journalism, Eichner was the editor of The Broomfielder magazine for many years, and when the magazine stopped publishing several years ago, she launched a new local publication with the help of her family. In her first letter from the editor in Our Broomfield magazine, she shared that her goal for the publication is to create connections, awareness, and visibility by bringing local stories to the community. Through Our Broomfield, Eichner has become an important voice in the community and helped people feel they are part of a special place.

Driven by her love of our town and her desire to see Broomfield thrive, Eichner supports many nonprofit organizations through free or discounted advertising and publicity in Our

Tina Eichner

Broomfield magazine. She sponsors and participates in events as an ambassador of the publication, and she has produced publications for local organizations, such as the Broomfield Area Chamber guide, at no cost.

Outside of her official capacity with Our Broomfield, Eichner has been extremely involved in the community for years. She volunteered on the Bal Swan Ball committee and served on the Board and still attends the event every year. She helped with the Broomfield High School JAM and supports Broomfield FISH. She speaks at Women of Broomfield events and does readings at Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church. Eichner even takes the time to help those new to the community get plugged in. At the Taste of Broomfield last year, she met a couple that had just moved in and answered questions about grocery stores, good orthodontists, and the best place to get barbecue. She has also served as a mentor to blossoming young writers. Friends and coworkers describe Eichner as generous, kind, loving, caring, compassionate, dedicated, and grateful.

HEARTS OF GOLD GROUP

OR ORGANIZATIONAL

AWARD - Broomfield

Woodshop Volunteers

Recognizing a group of volunteers, business, department, or collaborative team whose combined efforts have significantly strengthened our community. Recipients include Tom Bloomfield, Tom Fahrenbruch, Mike Hankerd, Bob Juszynski, Dan Lund, Joe Marr and Johnny Padilla.

nizations such as Meals on Wheels. The volunteers also are happy to help with individual projects, such as fixing spindles on an heirloom rocking chair for a Broomfield resident.

Their involvement at the Broomfield Community Center impacts the community significantly, providing a space for people to build their confidence and skills, complete home improvement projects, receive expert guidance, and learn how to use the tools and machines. The community knows that if they have a small woodworking problem, either one they want to fix themselves, or one they need someone to do, they can go to the woodshop and there is always someone to assist them. Individuals who are new to the shop know they are welcome and can always ask for help learning a new skill. They are committed to ensuring participants know how to use the equipment, and they care about keeping this space user friendly for all.

HEART AND SOUL AWARD – Evelyn Walter

The Heart and Soul Award recognizes an individual who consistently gives of themselves to their neighbors, local groups, and even strangers, and whose actions are the epitome of a community with heart.

Evelyn Walter has been a force in fostering community spirit and engagement through numerous volunteer efforts and as a champion of nonprofits in Broomfield.

Described as community-oriented and deeply invested in the development and wellbeing of Broomfield, Walter consistently leverages her network of friends, coworkers and family to benefit the community. Her participation spans a diverse array of community organizations, including Broomfield High School JAM, the Rocky Mountain Down Syndrome Association, Broomfield 100 Women Who Care and Broomfield FISH.

Walter serves on the steering committee as the head of sponsorships at Broomfield 100 Women Who Care, where she educates local businesses about the organization and works with them to secure donations, meeting space and refreshments. She also actively supports "Daniel the Lion" events by recruiting volunteers and helps organizations including Bal Swan, where she once served as a spokesperson at its gala.

The Broomfield Woodshop is housed at the Broomfield Community Center and is staffed by a group of men who serve the community through the art of woodwork. Always quick to lend a hand and give encouragement, the Woodshop volunteers do projects for community organizations as well as assist community members with their woodwork projects.

Their skill benefits the community through numerous projects including making shelves for the Broomfield Veterans Museum, repairing floats for parades, making signs for Easy Ride and trophies for the annual car show, and helping seniors with small projects. They have made tables, donation boxes and auction items for fundraisers, assisting orga-

Her involvement with the Rocky Mountain Down Syndrome Society is significant. She serves as the organization's board president and has impacted its strategic planning, advocacy and outreach, inclusivity, finances, and mentoring efforts. She coordinated the highly successful Step Up for Down Syndrome fundraising walk, which raises vital funds and awareness while fostering a sense of unity and support among participants and the broader community.

Walter has been a volunteer employment coach at Thrive for several years, where she has coached five members who have made great strides in their employment. She works with members with kindness and grace, imparting her professional knowledge and wisdom to those she has walked with.

Wood Magazine

Broomfield Community Center

Evelyn Walter

UPK_Broomfield@broomfieldecc.org • www.BroomfieldECC.org/BroomfieldUPK • www.upk.colorado.gov

Planet Fitness to Launch Annual Summer Youth Program

By Missy Ruzicka

Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or just starting your fitness journey, Planet Fitness Broomfield is dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals in a supportive atmosphere.

Planet Fitness is one of the nation’s fastest growing health club chains with more than 2,400 locations in the United States and Canada. Located in the Sheridan Crossing Shopping Center, the Broomfield Planet Fitness strives to create a workout environment where everyone feels accepted and respected. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer assistance and guidance, whether it’s helping with equipment usage or providing personal workout advice. This spacious gym features a wide variety of cardio and strength training equipment to ensure there is something for everyone.

Once again, this year Planet Fitness is offering its High School Summer Pass, opening the doors to teenagers 14-18 years of age to come work out all summer for free.

Summer is just around the corner and Broomfield’s Planet Fitness recognizes the importance of promoting healthy habits among young adults. Once again, this year Planet Fitness is offering its High School Summer Pass, opening the doors to teenagers 14-18 years of age to come work out all summer for free.

Pre-registration starts May 13 so stop by the Broomfield location or go online any time after that to register. With the High School Summer Pass, students can enjoy unlimited workouts and take advantage of all the amenities and services the gym has to offer.

The High School Summer Pass program not only encourages teenagers to stay active and prioritize their physical well-being during the summer break, but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among high school students, no matter which school they go to. By making fitness more accessible to students, Planet Fitness aims to instill lifelong habits of health and wellness that will benefit them well into adulthood.

This year Planet Fitness is also bringing back the Judgement Free Generation Scholarships. Partnered with Boys and Girls Club of America, Planet Fitness is offering $5,000 scholarships to 50 deserving teens who model judgement free, pro-kindness, and anti-bullying values for which the company collectively stands by. Most teens are ready to make a positive impact in their lives and Planet Fitness will give them a safe place to prioritize their mental and physical wellbeing when

school sports and afterschool programs end for the summer.

On top of state-of-the-art equipment, Planet Fitness offers a range of amenities designed to enhance patrons’ workout, including clean and well-maintained locker rooms, hydromassage beds, and tanning booths. With convenient hours for early risers or late-night lifters; Monday through Friday 4:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Broomfield Planet Fitness stands as a testament to the company’s unwavering dedication to helping individuals lead healthier, happier lives.

Whether you’re a high school student looking to stay active over summer or a seasoned gym enthusiast, Planet Fitness welcomes you with open arms, ready to support you on your fitness journey.

Photos Courtesy Planet Fitness Broomfield

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.”

New Gardening Program Helps Teens Connect with Nature

By Kristen Beckman

Broomfield and Westminster teenagers will have a unique opportunity this summer to work together to impact the community while connecting with nature.

The Broomfield Open Spaces Foundation along with the City and County of Broomfield and the City of Westminster are launching a pilot teen gardening program called G.R.I.T., which stands for Gardens, Relationships, Impact, and Teamwork. The program will consist of planning, growing, harvesting, preparing food, and donating some of the harvest. Participants also will be in charge of a pollinator garden and there will be nature-centered lessons throughout the growing season.

The idea for G.R.I.T. grew out of the need for somebody to take care of the Metzger Farm Victory Garden. BOSF board member Jessica Goldstrohm, a naturalist and Broomfield resident, came up with the idea with hopes that it would give teens a chance to get outside and connect with nature.

“In the process of growing food and working in these gardens, they’ll have contact with insects and birds and all kinds of cool things they wouldn’t see if they weren't out there,” said Goldstrohm. “I think it’s important for teens to have things like this in their lives.”

Up to 20 teens aged 13-18 can participate in G.R.I.T., which starts May 19 and runs through September 22. Participants will meet every Sunday afternoon for a short lesson followed by hands-on work in the 20 growing plots. Plans are also in the works for meetups

at The Butterfly Pavilion and at Broomfield FISH, so participants can see how the plants they grow can impact their community and the world. In addition, Goldstrohm is hoping to set up a cooking session to teach participants how to cook the food they have grown.

The teenagers will work in pairs and with adult mentors, fostering teamwork. In addition, participants will be asked to sign a contract committing to the program and requiring communication with team members in case of absence.

Goldstrohm said participants will learn a wide variety of gardening concepts, including identifying native plants, managing weeds, attracting pollinators, laying out garden plots, companion planting, succession planting, stratification, and germination.

Goldstrohm said she wanted to create a program for teenagers because many existing programs target young children with outdoor activities but less is available for kids as they age.

“We spend a lot of time – adults and teens alike – inside,” said Goldstrohm. “We're in between walls, doing work, doing homework, and we're on our devices. Just having even a small dose of being outside, breathing in the air, getting the sun on our skin is good for us.”

She said community members can help the program by encouraging its participants when they are out in the community or at events like the Nature Festival in August.

Interested teens can apply through Volunteer Hub.

Images courtesy G.R.I.T. Teen Gardening Program

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Broomfield’s ANNUAL TRAIL ADVENTURE Signals the Start of Hiking Season

By Bette Erickson

Mark your calendar for Broomfield’s 23rd Annual Trail Adventure Saturday, June 1. The event is the City and County’s local celebration of National Trails Day, landing on the first Saturday of June each year.

“The concept behind the event,” explained Pete Dunlaevy, “is to showcase trails and natural areas around Broomfield that people may not be familiar with. This is why we host the event in a different location every year.”

Dunlaevy is Broomfield’s Open Space and Trails Manager and has been with the city and county for 21 years, so he is an important and integral part of planning, acquisition, and maintenance of Broomfield’s open spaces and open lands.

On Saturday, June 1 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. the annual Broomfield Trail Adventure signals the official start to the 10th Annual Broomfield 100 Challenge. The Saturday event begins at Centennial Elementary School, 13200 Westlake Drive, Broomfield. The hiking and biking route includes Alexx & Michael’s Pond, the Trails Park Pond and the greenbelts that connect them. Find full details at www. broomfield.org/3138/Programs-Events.

“The key trails we are highlighting this year are the Westlake neighborhood Trail connections, including Alexx & Michael’s Pond, the Trails Park Pond, and the greenbelts that connect them,” Dunlaevy explained.

In addition to celebrating and recognizing National Trails Day, the Broomfield Trail Adventure kicks off the 10th Annual Broomfield 100.

A decade ago, City and County planners created the Broomfield 100 Challenge. The goal of the three-month event is to encourage outdoor exercise, expose participants to the city’s expansive and well-planned trails system, and generally get residents enthused about healthy activity.

Specific details are tracked via a passport, available online or hardcopy at the Citizen Assistant Center at the George DiCiero Building, One DesCombes Drive, or the Paul Derda Recreation

Center, 13201 Lowell Blvd. Participants are encouraged to hike or bike the variety of routes offered – generally summing 100 miles, hence the name, Broomfield 100. In the center of the Passport, just for kids, is a Nature Explorer Booklet so the little people in your life can get in on the fun.

The online access allows participants to contribute to a community guest book, photo scavenger hunt, and more. The summer-long outdoor community challenge is enjoyed by hundreds of residents each year, culminating on Broomfield Days, Saturday, September 21.

On that day prizes are given to those who’ve completed the challenge; presented at the City and County tent on the south side of Midway Park.

While the 2024 Outdoor Passports were not finalized at the time of publication, last year’s lineup included 15 trails, parks, and activities. Community members can expect similar offerings again this year.

“The Broomfield 100 is a great way to learn all about the larger trail system and find trail loops all across the community,” added Dunlaevy.

For more information about the Broomfield 100 Challenge, the Broomfield 100 Web app, and specifics on how to participate, visit www.broomfield.org/Broomfield100.

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

Photos by Pat Eichner.

Meet Brian & Amy Coleman

By Bette Erickson

Editor’s Note: Each month Our Broomfield Magazine profiles different members of the community. The goal of Our People: Meet “insert name” is to introduce Broomfield change-makers and highlight their contributions.

Following is a recent conversation with Brian and Amy Coleman.

ABOUT BRIAN AND AMY:

Brian and his wife, Amy, have lived in Broomfield for 35 years and raised their two sons, Aaron and Noah here. The Colemans attend Risen Savior Lutheran Church and are active in Bible Study groups. They had a unique opportunity to tour the German places of Martin Luther in 2018 with the church.

Q. Share with us a little about your career, hobbies, and how you enjoy your free time.

Brian’s A: Amy worked in BBQ catering for many years and I’ve worked in both technical sales and Geographic Information Systems. We enjoy grandparenting. Amy is a wonderful cook and I enjoy teaching mapping and land navigation (orienteering) to all ages.

Additionally, our family has hosted many exchange students, including two German high school aged students, Bennet and Oskar; two Japanese exchange students, Noriko and Satomi. We also hosted a scout I met from Nepal while at the Scouting World Jamboree, Guna Raj. We have hosted an Ethiopian family and a Laotian family. We also volunteer for Salvation Army and the Foothills Kiwanis of Boulder Valley.

I am also an avid Scouter, and my sons and I connected with fellow Scouters from Broomfield, in Maidstone, Kent, in the United Kingdom while at the UK World Jamboree.

Q. What is your favorite restaurant and park in Broomfield? A: Our home kitchen. I enjoy doing dutch oven cooking and Amy is an incredible baker. We love LacAmora Park as it has incredible views of the mountains.

Q. What do you consider to be an interesting place in Broomfield? A: I have been impressed with the Broomfield Veterans Museum.

Q. What do you enjoy most about international student exchange programs?

A: I like watching the students embrace the various activities: woodworking, theater, and learning to play baseball. And many return home as loyal Rockies fans.

Q. Did your own kids participate in a student exchange program? A: Our sons were able to attend the World Jamboree in the UK and meet Scouts from all over the world in 2007. There was a July 22, 2007, article in the Broomfield Enterprise newspaper about that special trip. While in the UK, the Swedes next door had a visit from Carl Gustav IV, the King of Sweden, who is an avid Scouter. He slept in a tent on a bedroll and enjoyed a meal cooked by the Scouts before departing.

Q. Do you have future plans to continue hosting exchange participants? A: We would consider hosting again, but also encourage other families, especially those with high school children, to consider being a Host Family. It is quite rewarding.

Q. What is something you find unique about Broomfield?

A: We have so many opportunities to be involved in Broomfield. Whether through your faith institution, Scouting, community service groups, or sports; there truly is no reason to be lonely or inactive.

Q. What advice would you give to people living in or relocating to Broomfield? A: After you get moved in, find your happy place. There are so many things to do and people to meet in Broomfield. Get involved, make a difference.

Q. What is something about you that most people don’t know? A: I have completed four consecutive “Ride the Rockies” cross state bike tours.

Q. What or who inspires you to be a better person?

A: Our faith inspires us to be servant leaders in the community. My Scouting oath challenges me to fulfill those promises through actions with no expectation of return. No matter what you’re going through, there are so many people in Broomfield ready to help you. We saw this during COVID, the Marshall Fires, and other times of need.

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

Brian and Amy Coleman and family. Courtesy photo.

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By Lisa Payne

Spring brunch has me craving things like bellinis with egg dishes, and fresh fruit salads dressed with a honey lime mint sauce. So guess what? Here is everything you need to make your own spring brunch for family or friends.

Spring Brunch is in the Air Minnesota Egg Bake

• 1 Jimmy Dean spicy sausage log

• 1 Jimmy Dean original log

• 1 medium onion, diced

Fresh Peach Shrub Bellinis

Here is a little spin on the original peach bellini, which consists of pureeing fresh peaches with some lemon juice and mixing with prosecco. Here you make a shrub which gives it a nice light, fresh flavor.

Peach Shrub

• 2 ¼ pounds peaches pitted and chopped coarse

• 1 ½ cups sugar

• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Directions:

Combine peaches and sugar in a large bowl; stir and mash gently with rubber spatula or wooden spoon until peaches are well coated with sugar. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours, stirring every 6-8 hours to dissolve sugar.

Transfer the peach mixture to a fine-mesh strainer set over an 8 cup measuring cup or large bowl, scraping any remaining fruit and sugar mixture from the bowl with the rubber spatula. Stir and press gently on solids to extract as much syrup as possible, taking care not to press fruit pulp through strainer. Reserve fruit solids for another use. Stir in vinegar. Shrub syrup can be refrigerated for up to a month. Shake before using.

Pour 2 tablespoons shrub into a champagne or wine glass and fill with cold prosecco.

• 5 eggs

• 2 cans cream of celery soup

• 4 cups Rice Krispies

• 1 pound shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup uncooked rice prepared as directed on package.

• 1 cup cooked crumbled bacon

Directions:

Grease a 9X13 pan with cooking spray.

Brown sausage and onion together, set aside. Mix soup and eggs together, set aside.

Layer in the pan: ½ of the rice, ½ of the meat mixture, 1/3 of the Rice Krispies, ½ of the cheese, and then repeat the layers one more time.

Pour egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with the remaining Rice Krispies.

Bake uncovered for 1 hour at 350 degrees. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Tastes delicious at room temperature so can be made ahead.

Spring Fruit Salad with Citrus Mint Syrup

• 1 pound strawberries, hulled and halved or quartered

• 3 oranges

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste

• 2½ tablespoons light brown sugar, packed

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint, plus a sprig for garnish

Directions:

Place the strawberries into a serving bowl.

Cut a slice off the top and bottom of each orange so they sit flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, work your way around the fruits to remove all the skin and pith. Cupping the orange in one hand and working over the serving bowl, carefully cut the segments out from between the membranes. (Be sure to cut only until you reach the middle of the fruit!) Over a separate small bowl, firmly squeeze the remaining membranes to release all the orange juice. Add the lemon juice and brown sugar to the freshly squeezed orange juice and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Pour over the strawberries and orange segments and gently toss to combine. Sprinkle with fresh mint. Taste and add more lemon juice if necessary (the syrup should have a perfect balance of tart and sweet). Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to six hours. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

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

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AdventHealth Avista Stepping into the Future

AdventHealth Avista recently welcomed its new President & CEO, Mark Smith. Mark previously served as president for MultiCare based in Tacoma, Washington, the market leader for the South King County Region and the Auburn and Covington Medical Centers. Mark is passionate about nurturing an organizational culture that supports patient-centered care and elevates quality and high reliability. “I am honored to be able to step into this role and join the talented team extending Christ’s healing ministry in Louisville and the surrounding community,” he said. “The commitment and passion for service of the skilled leaders and caregivers across the Rocky Mountain Region is evident, and I’m excited to be able to start working with my colleagues in the region.”

Eager to aid in the growth of AdventHealth Avista, Mark looks forward to what is on the horizon for the nonprofit 114 bed hospital. AdventHealth Avista, as it is known today, opened in 1990. As Louisville and Boulder County continue to grow, AdventHealth Avista is eager to do the same in the near future.

With a long legacy of care in Boulder County, AdventHealth Avista’s history reaches back to 1896, known then as the Boulder Sanitarium. Growing with the community, they rebuilt and changed the name to Boulder Memorial

“The commitment and passion for service of the skilled leaders and caregivers across the Rocky Mountain Region is evident, and I’m excited to be able to start working with my colleagues in the region.”

Hospital in 1962 to expand capacity and the services that were offered.

Throughout the 128-year history, the hospital has stayed true to following the principles of wellness that were started by founder, Dr. Harvey Kellogg. AdventHealth Avista places a priority on caring for mind, body, and spirit – providing whole person care to their patients and community.

AdventHealth Avista is under contract for 40 acres of land in the Redtail Ridge Development for the hospital to continue its growth. The goal is to expand services and capacity and to become more accessible for patients, guests, and ambulances.

AdventHealth Avista currently offers services including:

• Spine and Orthopedics

• New Life Birth Center

• Level III NICU

• Emergency and Trauma Care

• Breast Care

• Heart and Vascular

• Pain Management

• Pelvic Health

• Women’s Health

• Outpatient Infusion Services

An expanded and more accessible facility would enable AdventHealth Avista to provide the community with expanded cardiology and cancer care, a larger emergency services department, along with other specialties to serve

our growing community’s needs.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Lief Sorensen is optimistic for this next chapter in the hospital’s story as it will allow for the facility to provide convenient, whole person care to more people in the community than ever before. “Easier access for patients and emergency services will lead to an increase in the types of medical services we are able to offer at AdventHealth Avista,” says Dr. Sorensen. “We are very excited to continue to grow in order to meet the needs of our expanding community.”

AdventHealth Avista prides themselves on providing award-winning care to patients to help them feel whole.

Some recent awards include:

• AdventHealth Avista is honored to be ANCC Pathway to Excellence Designated® for excellence in nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

• AdventHealth Avista is one of ten hospitals in Colorado that has achieved both a CMS 5-Star Rating and Leapfrog A.

• AdventHealth Avista’s NICU received the 2023 Human Experience Guardian of Excellence Award from Press Ganey, ranking in the top 5% for patient experience nationwide.

• AdventHealth Avista was ranked among the top orthopedic facilities in Colorado by Atena for Medicare members.

• AdventHealth Avista is the first hospital in Colorado to receive the Orthopedic and Spine Center of Excellence Designation from DNV Healthcare.

AdventHealth Avista has been a cornerstone of the Louisville community for the past 128 years and looks forward to serving the community for generations to come.

Mark Smith

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Best Option Restoration www.BORestoration-Thornton.com

Beyond the Brush Painters www.beyondthebrushpainters.com

Boulder Centre for Orthopedics & Spine www.bouldercentre.com

Brenda French, CPA www.brendafrenchcpa.com

Broomfield Early Childhood Council www.BroomfieldECC.org

Buenos Tiempos www.buenostiemposrestaurant.com

Bullard Tree & Garden www.bullardtreecare.com

Bumble Bee Blinds www.bumblebeeblinds.com/boulder-co

Cadence Living www.cadencebroomfield.com

Century Communities www.centurycommunities.com

City and County of Broomfield www.broomfield.org

CO Patio Concepts www.coloradopatioconcepts.com

Coal Creek Plastic Surgery www.coalcreekplasticsurgey.com

Coverwell www.coverwell.com

Dance Arts Studio www.danceartsstudio.org

Derby Bicycle Center www.derbybikes.com

Diane Kingsbeck www.dianekingsbeck.com

DOC Automotive www.docautomotiverepair.com

EcoGEM Performance Organics shop.eco-gem.com

Egress Inc. www.egressescapewindows.com

Electric Heat Service & Supply www.electricheatservicesupply.com

Endurance Roofing www.enduranceroofing.net

Enhance Life Chiro enhancelifechiropracticdenver.com

Family Hearing 303-900-4060

FirsTier Bank www.firstierbanks.com

Floor Crafters www.floorcraftersboulder.com

Front Range Gardens www.frontrangegardens.com

Furn Consignment www.furnllc.com

Gold West Interiors www.goldwestinteriors.com

Heart of Broomfield www.broomfieldfoundation.org/heart

Horizons North Credit Union www.HNCU.org

iCRYO Westminster 720-222-0224

In Memoriam www.inmemoriamservices.com

iTrade 303-945-2449

J&K Roofing jkroofing.com

JEI Painting www.jeipainting.com

Jewel Fire www.jewelfireofbroomfield.com

Larson Tax & Financial www.larsonplanners.com

Lingows lingows.media/aiclass

Live Love Dance www.livelovedance.net

Mata Dental www.drmatadental.com

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

North Metro Realty www.northmetrorealty.com

Northern Colorado Window Cleaning nocowindowcleaning.com

Nutri-Fit by Natalie www.nutrifitbynatalie.com

Olson Lawn Care www.olsonoutdoors.com

Pearl Wok www.pearlwokrestaurant.com

Planet Fitness planetfitness.com/gyms/broomfield-co

PuroClean www.puroclean.com/pdr-co

School of Rock broomfield.schoolofrock.com

Sweet Wellness www.sweetwellnesscenter.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

West + Main Homes – Christina Surprenant 720-217-7835

Windo Van Go www.windovango.org