August 2026 Our Broomfield™ Magazine

EDITOR FROM THE Our Transitions

The transition from summer to fall is full of intensity and contrast: hot sun to cool winds, long evening light to moody early dusk, bright green leaves to warm yellow and orange, lazy summer vacations to structured school days. Going back to school always brought about a wide range of intense and sometimes conflicting emotions for me. Sadness at the end of summer freedom and excitement for new supplies and old friends. Nervousness for new classes and teachers and eagerness to remember and revive old skills (someone please remind me how to find the volume of a sphere or cite sources in an essay!); And all of this bound by an unrealized yearning for routine and structure.

Nowadays my life is in constant transition with two little boys. Just when one routine is established, the baby or the three-nager enters a new phase and we are finding a fresh rhythm all over again. But in the big picture, I feel like I have finally made it through the major transition of becoming a second-time mom and also the Managing Editor of Our Broomfield at the same time! Our next big transitions include Pre-K, potty training, and crawling. Oh boy!

In this issue we have two great Back To School articles with tips to ease the transition into routine, whether your students are older or younger, excited or nervous. For all parents and students headed back to school this fall, I wish you a happy first day and a year full of learning and growth!

It is also a great time to remember that some kids desperately look forward to returning to school, as it is the only place they can reliably expect a meal. Broomfield FISH (the local food bank) is having its annual luncheon to acknowledge all that has been accomplished in our community to help those in need, as well as raise funds to continue the effort. Look for the article on page 26 to learn about the event and how to help.

In this intro-to-fall issue you will also find articles and recipes about how to utilize your fall garden harvest. Pack a healthy school lunch, make a comforting dinner, share with a neighbor, or pass along the abundance to community members in need.

Here at Our Broomfield, we are getting ready for two annual communityparticipation traditions that begin in the fall. The first is our Pet Contest! Each year we accept photos of your cute and cuddly creatures to be featured in the October Pet issue. Check out our ad on page 37 to to submit your furry, feathery, or fishy friend! The best pet photo, as selected by the Our Broomfield team, will be on the cover with other favorites sprinkled throughout the pages.

Speaking of favorites, it is once again time to begin voting for Our Broomfield Favorites! We want to hear all about YOUR favorite local businesses. Check out the QR code on page 24 to vote from now until October 15. Winners selected by the community will be featured in our January 2027 issue.

Until next time!

Megan Mayes Managing Editor and Sales Coordinator

EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Tina Eichner

BUSINESS MANAGER

Pat Eichner

ART DIRECTOR

Stacey Horne

MANAGING EDITOR & SALES COORDINATOR

Megan Mayes

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT

Tammy Degenhart

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Allison Eichner

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Hope Davis

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Andrea Wallace

Kristen Beckman

City of Broomfield

Lisa Payne

Melissa Ruzicka

Bette Erickson

OUR BROOMFIELD™ IS A PROUD MEMBER OF THE:

AND THE 2021 BROOMFIELD SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR!

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Our Town Around August

Saturday Afternoons

Moments that Made US at the Broomfield Depot Museum

Check out the new “Moments that Made US” exhibit at the Broomfield Depot Museum, created by History Colorado. The museum is open most Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and the new exhibit was introduced in July. Featuring stories, artifacts, and content from around the state, this exhibit commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, the 150th of the state of Colorado, and has been enhanced with local stories and objects for the 65th of the City of Broomfield and the 25th of the City and County of Broomfield. There is a lot to celebrate! The Broomfield Depot Museum is located at 2201 W. 10th Ave. and you can find more information at www.broomfield.org/3515/Broomfield-Depot-Museum.

Thursday Nights now through September 3

Concerts at Palisade Park Amphitheater

Experience the charm of live performances at the Palisade Park Amphitheater, an intimate open-air community venue nestled in North Broomfield at 680 W 168th Place. This laid-back space fosters community by hosting a diverse range of programming throughout the summer, including both free and ticketed concerts, lively festivals, fresh farmers markets, and other engaging arts and cultural events. With a packed schedule of 18 concerts lined up this summer, Palisade Park Amphitheater offers a unique and enjoyable experience for everyone. Check out their calendar for specific dates and ticket information at www.palisadeparkamphitheater.com.

August 6-8

Fowler Chevrolet Grand Reopening

Fowler Chevrolet is proud to announce the grand re-opening of its newly rebuilt deal-

ership with a free public celebration on August 6-8. This will mark a major reinvestment in the local community and a new chapter for one of the area’s oldest Chevrolet dealerships. Fowler Chevrolet, located at 6105 W 120th Ave., is welcoming customers, neighbors, and community partners back to a modernized dealership designed to better serve Broomfield. The event will include a ribbon cutting and public activities as well as a Thursday dinner, Friday brunch, and Saturday cookout with frozen treats. For more information, contact the store at 303-731-300.

August 7-9

Chadash Dance

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Presents H(YOU)MANE

Chadash Contemporary Dance Movement invites you to experience an evening of original storytelling through the transcendent language of dance theatre on on August 7, 8, and 9. Performances will be held at the Broomfield Auditorium. Blending dance, spoken word, film, photography, visual art, and more, Chadash pioneers a new form of dance theatre. Through powerful movement and visual storytelling, they invite audiences to wrestle, to feel, and to see differently. Visit www.chadashcontemporary dancemovement.com to see show times and purchase tickets.

August 11

Holy Comforter Noon Recital Series

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Holy Comforter Episcopal Church will host the Noon Recital Series on Tuesday, August 11 at 12:00 p.m. The performance is free and open to the public, and will feature American Composers. Holy Comforter Episcopal Church is located at 1700 West 10th Ave. in Broomfield. For more information, email music@holycomforterchurch.net.

Our Town Around

August

August 14

Broomfield Water Treatment Facility Tour

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Visit the Broomfield Water Treatment Facility on Friday, August 14 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. for a tour and exhibit. Find the answers to all your water related questions including “Where does Broomfield get its water?” and “How many gallons of water are cycled each day?” Explore Broomfield’s stateof-the-art facility and learn all about the water treatment process. The Broomfield Water Treatment Facility is located at 4395 W. 144th Ave. Registration is required and will close on August 12 at 2:00 p.m. This facility is not ADA compliant and children must be accompanied by an adult. To learn more or register, visit compass.broomfield.org/events/month.

August 15

Broomfield Open Space NatureFest 2026

Join the Broomfield Open Space Foundation on Saturday, August 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Metzger Farms for a family-friendly celebration of nature through storytelling, learning stations, arts & crafts, native plant adoption, and exploring the open space with a wide range of community organizations! Partners include Butterfly Pavilion, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance, Grasslands Colorado, Broomfield Trail Ambassadors, GRIT, Wild Ones Front Range, and Colorado Monarch Ambassadors. Find more information at www. broomfieldopenspacefoundation.org.

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Our Town Around

August 15

Family Learn and Grow: Enjoy Your Harvest

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Grow connections with hands-on fun in the Teaching Vegetable Garden at Brunner Farmhouse on Saturday, August 15 from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. Join the whole series or drop in for your favorite monthly topics. In August, it’s time to enjoy the fruit - or vegetables - of your labor. Help harvest from the Teaching Vegetable Garden and get easy garden recipes you can take home for more family fun. Classes take place outdoors and children must be accompanied by an adult. This program is free and does not require registration. Find more information at compass.broomfield.org/events/month.

August 16

Broomfield Jewish Festival

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Chabad of Broomfield and BCAH are proud to present the Broomfield Jewish Festival on Sunday, August 16 from 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Palisade Park Ampitheater. This event is free and open to all! A new addition this year is a live concert from the Rogers Park Band beginning at 6:30 p.m. Other offerings include a pop-up deli, kids zone and activities, Judaica shop, and more. Be sure to stop by to enjoy the food, community, and fun! For more information, visit www.chabadbroomfield.com/festival.

October 11

21st Annual FRIENDS

Variety Show

Join FRIENDS of Broomfield for the 21st Annual Variety Show on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Parsons Theatre! Stay tuned for this year’s theme announcement and for tickets to go on sale August 1, 2026. Purchase yours early—last year’s show SOLD OUT! To find more information, visit www.friendsofbroomfield.org/ variety-show-2026.

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Algal Blooms in Broomfield Waterways

By The City and County of Broomfield

As temperatures rise during the summer months, local ponds and waterways often experience a rapid growth of algae known as an algal bloom. Residents and businesses play an important role in reducing algal blooms and keeping Broomfield’s stormwater clean.

Algal blooms occur when a specific “recipe” of environmental conditions is met: warm water temperatures, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and an abundance of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. While some algae are natural, excessive growth can create dense mats that block light and deplete oxygen levels. This can lead to fish kills and produce unpleasant odors.

Harmful algal blooms, which consist of cyanobacteria, can produce toxins harmful to both people and pets. When it rains or snow melts, stormwater flows over lawns, driveways, and streets, picking up pollutants along the way. Because storm drains lead directly to Broomfield waterways without being treated, whatever enters the storm drain ends up in local ponds. This is where residents and business owners can make a big difference.

Excess fertilizers, yard debris, and pet waste are primary sources of the phosphorus and nitrogen that trigger these ecological imbalances. You can help reduce algal blooms by:

• Limiting fertilizer: This reduces the amount of excess nitrogen and phosphorus that washes into storm drains.

• Scooping the poop: This prevents harmful bacteria and nutrients from pet waste from entering local water bodies.

• Clearing yard debris: This keeps leaves and grass clippings out of the drainage system to prevent nutrient decay.

The City and County of Broomfield’s Water Quality team actively monitors for algal bloom toxins and posts warning signs near affected locations when the health of people and pets may be of concern. If you encounter a posted warning sign, keep yourself and pets away from the water; do not drink, ingest, or swim.

Not all algal blooms are treated the same. While some blooms are natural, management and treatment depends on

The City and County of Broomfield’s Water Quality team actively monitors for algal bloom toxins and posts warning signs near affected locations.

their severity, and in some cases, a good rain event is required to help restore the area and allow natural remediation of the algal bloom to occur. Depending on the type of algae and where it is located, CCOB staff may perform treatment on the pond to reduce the algal bloom.

By watching what you allow to run into storm drains, you can directly reduce the frequency and severity of algal blooms, keeping community ponds healthy and safe for everyone. Find more information or report algal blooms at Broomfield.org/Stormwater.

S farm table Suburban

Offering Zucchini Over The Fence

By Andrea Wallace

We reach a point in our suburban garden when the zucchini begins to take over. That point came with the onset of summer heat last month.

At first it’s very exciting! Those first glossy, green trophies provide a feeling of validation – reward for all of effort and proof that the sun, soil, and our care are working together. Sliced into dinners or grated into breads, there is a certain amount of pride that goes along with those initial harvests. Your garden has become productive!

And then, nearly overnight, there’s more.

The entrepreneur in me can’t help but feel drawn to the idea of a small farm stand. With the growing popularity of cottage baking and neighborhood produce stands, there is something charming about turning homemade or homegrown goods into a simple offering that reaches beyond your immediate neighbors.

It doesn’t need to be elaborate – a simple table on your driveway or near your garden gate along with a handwritten sign, maybe a few loaves of sourdough or whatever your garden produced that week. These small-scale stands seem to return us to something slower and more personal, where food is not only purchased, but creates a sense of community.

One more zucchini hidden under a leaf. Then two. Then five! You leave them on the counter, hoping to use them before more show up. You look for unique recipes and wonder how many loaves of sweet bread your family can or SHOULD eat.

And this is when something familiar and meaningful happens.

A quick text offering some of the bounty to a neighbor or a casual, “Would you like some zucchini?” when you happen to be outside at the same time. It’s a very simple exchange, but one that feels increasingly rare. I remember my mom both receiving and giving zucchinis depending on whether or not a garden had been planted in our backyard. As a girl, I recall a neighbor hosting a zucchini bread/recipe exchange one abundant summer. When sharing your harvest there is no transaction or expectation. Just the understanding: I have more than I need and you might be able to use it. In these small suburban spaces where lives often run parallel but separate, sharing garden overflow creates connection. It turns neighbors into friends – not through grand gestures, but through repeated, ordinary ones.

Zucchini can be less about what to do with too much of something and more about what happens when we let abundance spill over.

More than side income, it represents a shift in thinking regarding abundance. When a backyard yields more than a household needs, or hobby baking naturally produces extra, a farm stand becomes a way to extend that effort beyond our family and friends. It creates a bridge between home and community, and offers an opportunity for creativity in how we provide for ourselves and others.

So perhaps when the harvest becomes a little overwhelming it’s less of a problem and more of an opportunity. And sometimes the best part of growing food isn’t just what ends up on your table.

*Last month I wrote about Broomfield’s food bank, FISH, and their community teaching garden. In that article I mentioned that fresh produce leaves the shelves of their market first and very quickly. They do accept donations from your home garden. Please consider helping our neighbors in need by sharing your extra harvest.

Andrea Wallace writes about creative food solutions and home-based sustainability. You can reach her at ajbattwall71@gmail.com.

Five Habits That Help Students Thrive This School Year

Five Habits That Help Students Thrive This School Year

By Melissa Ruzicka

As summer winds down and backpacks begin filling with fresh notebooks and sharpened pencils, many families start thinking about how to make the upcoming school year a successful one. While every child learns differently, research continues to show that success isn’t just about earning good grades. Healthy routines, positive relationships, and small everyday habits often make the biggest difference. Here are five simple habits that can help students of any age start the school year feeling confident and ready to learn. Prioritize a Good Night's Sleep

Create Simple Routines

Mornings can feel like a race against the clock, but a little preparation goes a long way. Packing backpacks the night before, laying out clothes, and keeping a family calendar in a central location can reduce stress for everyone. Predictable routines also help children feel more secure because they know what to expect, allowing them to focus more energy on learning instead of worrying about what comes next.

Encourage Independence

Sleep is one of the most important tools for learning. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, getting enough sleep helps improve attention, memory, emotional well-being, and overall academic performance. As tempting as it may be to squeeze in one more episode or stay up a little later during summer, gradually shifting bedtime before school starts can make those early morning alarms much easier when classes begin.

Make

Reading Part of Every Day

Whether it’s a picture book before bed, a favorite chapter book, a magazine article, or even reading a recipe together while making dinner, spending just 20 minutes reading each day can have lasting benefits. Studies have shown that regular reading helps build vocabulary, strengthens comprehension, and encourages curiosity. The best part? Reading doesn’t have to feel like homework. Letting children choose books that match their interests helps create lifelong readers.

It’s natural to want to help, but giving children age-appropriate responsibilities builds confidence and problem-solving skills. Simple tasks like packing their own lunch, checking homework, setting an alarm, or remembering library books teach responsibility one step at a time. Every small success reminds children that they're capable of handling challenges on their own.

Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results

Every report card tells part of the story, but growth often happens long before the final grade. Praising perseverance, kindness, creativity, and a willingness to keep trying helps children develop what psychologists call a “growth mindset”: the belief that abilities improve through practice and effort. When mistakes become opportunities to learn rather than reasons to quit, students become more resilient both inside and outside the classroom.

A new school year brings new teachers, new friendships, and new opportunities. There will undoubtedly be a few forgotten lunches, mismatched socks, and homework assignments left on the kitchen table. That’s all part of the adventure.

The good news is that helping children thrive doesn’t require perfection. A few healthy habits, a little encouragement, and plenty of support can go a long way toward making this school year one filled with learning, confidence, and lasting memories.

The Magic of Back to School Traditions The Magic of Back to School Traditions

By Melissa Ruzicka

There is something almost magical about the start of a new school year. Fresh notebooks, sharpened pencils, new shoes, and a backpack waiting by the front door all signal a fresh beginning. While schedules get busier and alarm clocks make their return, the first day of school is the perfect time to create traditions that children will remember long after they've graduated.

Some traditions are carefully planned, while others happen almost by accident and somehow become part of every school year.

Take the classic first day of school photo. As kids, many of us probably rolled our eyes while our parents insisted we stand on the front porch, backpack on, smiling into the camera. We may have thought it was silly at the time, but years later those same photos are often tucked into family albums or proudly displayed in frames around the house. Looking back, it’s fun to see the missing teeth, the oversized backpacks, and just how quickly children grow from one school year to the next.

For some families, the tradition begins before the first bell even rings. Maybe a special breakfast; pancakes shaped like smiley faces, cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven, or a stop for donuts on the way to school can help turn a morning filled with nervous butterflies into one filled with excitement. It isn’t really about what’s on the plate. It’s about slowing down together before the busy year begins.

Other families celebrate the end of the first day instead. Maybe it's an ice cream cone, a trip to the neighborhood park, pizza for dinner, or simply gathering around the table to share stories about new teachers, funny moments, and new friends. Those conversations often become just as memorable as the day itself.

Many parents have also started writing little notes to tuck inside lunch boxes or backpacks. Sometimes it’s a simple “Have a

great day!” Sometimes it’s a joke, a favorite quote, or just a reminder that someone is cheering them on from home. These small gestures may take only a minute, but they have a way of making a child smile when they need it most.

Traditions don’t have to cost money or require elaborate planning. Some of the most meaningful ones are wonderfully simple. Reading a favorite book together the night before school starts, taking a family walk after dinner, choosing a special first day outfit together, or letting each child pick out a new book to celebrate the beginning of the year can become moments children look forward to every August.

Research has consistently shown that family rituals and traditions help children develop a sense of belonging and security. While they may seem small in the moment, these shared experiences often become the memories that last a lifetime.

Years from now, your children may not remember exactly what they packed for lunch on the first day of third grade or what spelling words they studied that first week. But they just might remember the pancakes, the note in their lunchbox, the annual photo they pretended to hate, or the ice cream they shared while telling you all about their day.

Perhaps that’s the real magic of back-to-school traditions. Long after the homework is finished and the backpacks are tucked away, it’s the little moments shared together that families remember most.

DROUGHT WATCH

While sufficient water is currently available for all essential needs, residents are asked to voluntarily reduce water use now. Saving water today helps protect reservoirs and avoid the possibility of mandatory restrictions later.

Check the Clock: Lawn irrigation is prohibited between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. to minimize evaporation.

Reduce Frequency: Water lawns no more than two days per week.

Cycle and Soak: Water, Rest, Water - Broomfield’s soil can only absorb so much water at once. Water 5-10 minutes, rest 45-60 minutes, then water 5-10 minutes again.

Hardscape Clean-up: Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.

Embracing Hope Luncheon Returns Oct. 15 to Celebrate Community Impact and Support for Broomfield FISH

By Kristen Beckman

As Broomfield FISH faces the highest demand in its more than 60 years of service, the nonprofit is inviting the community to come together for its annual Embracing Hope luncheon, a celebration of the people, partnerships and generosity that help ensure Broomfield neighbors have access to food and other critical resources to help meet their basic needs.

The free event will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott, 10 E. 120th Ave. in Northglenn. Advance registration is required.

Broomfield FISH is both a food pantry and a family resource center, offering a self shop marketplace and connections to additional support when neighbors need help getting back on stable ground.

Embracing Hope is FISH’s signature fundraising luncheon and the organization’s largest community event of the year. The program will feature stories from the heart of FISH’s mission, the premiere of its annual mission video, and reflections on what can be accomplished when community members come together to support one another.

This event recognizes the many people who contribute to FISH’s work, including volunteers, donors, community partners, and the residents who support one another through difficult times.

The luncheon will be emceed by longtime FISH volunteer Lucia Fang, who began volunteering at FISH when she was in the third grade and continued returning as a teen and young adult to deepen her involvement. Fang was also one of the speakers at last year’s Embracing Hope. FISH Executive Director Dayna Scott will speak as well, alongside volunteer and participant speakers whose experiences reflect the organization’s wide ranging impact.

“We’re best known for the food pantry, but the wraparound services and the way we support people to move up

and out of poverty are really important,” said Crystal Egli, community engagement manager for Broomfield FISH.

In addition to its food pantry services, Broomfield FISH provides two housing stability programs, Keeping Families Housed and Keeping Seniors Housed, along with limited emergency assistance such as help with utilities and transportation when available. FISH also connects neighbors to additional resources through its family resource center model, helping people navigate support systems and find community partners that can assist with other needs.

The need for those services continues to grow. In 2025, FISH served 15,910 individuals, which is roughly one in five people living in Broomfield, and over half of those served were children. The organization also distributed more than 1.7 million pounds of food and assisted 688 residents with housing support.

Egli said rising housing costs are the number one driver of need in the community, while inflation and changes to public assistance programs have created additional challenges for many families.

“We try to think of ourselves as a bridge,” she said. “We want to make sure people move up and outgrow needing our services, that’s our ultimate goal.”

Funds raised through sponsorships and donations during Embracing Hope help support that work throughout the coming year. “I really appreciate all the hard work and effort so many people have put in to make Broomfield FISH what it is. I want to say thank you for everything you have done. It sure makes a difference in my life,” said a Broomfield FISH participant.

For Egli, one of the most meaningful aspects of the luncheon is the opportunity to put faces to the stories behind the statistics.

“These are people just like you and me. It has been me,” she said. “Situations can happen to anybody, and we’re all pitching in on this together.”

To learn more or register for the event, visit broomfieldfish.org/embracing-hope.

Partial Property Tax Relief Program

Offers Help to Eligible Broomfield Homeowners

By The City and County of Broomfield

Rising property taxes can strain household budgets, particularly for residents on fixed or limited incomes. Broomfield’s Partial Property Tax Relief Program offers financial assistance to eligible homeowners by covering a portion of annual property taxes, helping reduce one of the largest ongoing housing expenses.

The program is designed to ease the impact of increasing costs. While the assistance does not eliminate property taxes, partial relief can free up income for essential needs such as utilities, groceries, medical care, and home maintenance. For many households, even modest savings can provide meaningful financial stability. To qualify, applicants must own and occupy their home as a primary residence within Broomfield and must have lived in the home since January 1, 2021. The program is not available for rental properties, second homes, or investment properties.

Eligibility is limited to residents who meet specific criteria. Applicants must fall into one of the following categories: seniors who are age 65 or older on or before July 1, 2026; veterans with a service-connected disability rating of at least 80%; or residents with a 100% disability. These requirements are intended to prioritize assistance for residents who may face additional financial challenges. Household income must also be at or below 80% of the area median income, commonly referred to as AMI. Income eligibility is based on the com-

bined income of all household members and may change annually. Meeting the income requirement is necessary to qualify, but does not guarantee assistance, as program funding is limited.

Residents who qualify and are approved receive partial relief applied to their property taxes for the applicable tax year. The benefit varies depending on individual circumstances, but the program is intended to provide practical support for homeowners who may otherwise struggle to keep up with rising housing costs.

Applicants are required to submit documentation to verify eligibility, including proof of homeownership, residency, income, and age or disability status, depending on the qualifying category. Incomplete applications or missing documentation may delay review or result in denial. Preparing required materials in advance can help ensure a smoother application process.

Approval is not automatic from year to year. Residents who qualify must reapply annually, as income levels, household size, and eligibility criteria may change. Residents who have participated in the program previously are encouraged to

review current requirements and will need to register for the new software, review and update household information, and submit a new application during the enrollment period.

Applications for the 2026 program year will be accepted through 5 p.m. on Oct. 30, 2026, or until funding is exhausted. Submissions after this date will not be processed. Applying early is highly recommended to allow sufficient time to address any questions or provide extra documentation. Detailed eligibility requirements, income limits, application materials, and contact information for application assistance are all available at Broomfield.org/HousingPrograms.

For eligible homeowners, the Partial Property Tax Relief Program offers an opportunity to reduce financial pressure and maintain long-term housing stability. This local program is separate from the state’s Homestead Tax Exemption program.

As a reminder, property valuations are sent out every odd year in Colorado. The property valuation notice alerts property owners of any changes to their property's valuation. In Colorado, the property valuation is only one part of a three-part equation to determine property taxes. The other parts are the statewide assessment rate, determined by the state legislature, and the local mill levy rate set by the various taxing authorities of school districts, fire districts, and other local governments. Learn more about property taxes at Broomfield.org/PropertyTax.

Greenway Dental Brings a Personal Touch to Patient Care

By Kristen Beckman

When Dr. Michael Green purchased Greenway Dental in April 2025, he wasn't simply acquiring a practice. He was investing in the community he already called home. Located off 120th Avenue in Broomfield, Greenway Dental has long served local residents, and under Dr. Green’s ownership, the practice continues to build on that foundation with a focus on personalized care, patient comfort, and lasting relationships.

For Dr. Green, choosing Broomfield as the home for his practice was an easy decision. “I live in this area and have grown to love it,” he said. “I did not want to base myself anywhere else. Since working here and the warm welcome I received from many of the existing patients, I can’t help but feel that I made a great choice.”

That sense of connection is reflected in the atmosphere patients experience when they walk through the door. Dr. Green describes Greenway Dental as a cozy, privately-owned office where patients receive individualized attention rather than feeling like just another appointment on a busy schedule. “We are privately owned, so

“Our smile plays a major role in our lives beyond our ability to eat and our overall health. It affects our confidence, self-image, and the way other people see us.”

we can take the time to fully understand your goals for your dental treatment,” he said.

Before purchasing Greenway Dental, Dr. Green practiced in a corporate dental environment, an experience he said provided valuable insight into the profession and helped shape his vision for patient care. Today, he appreciates the flexibility that comes with owning an independent practice, where he can spend more time understanding each patient’s goals and concerns. “Being privately owned has allowed me to slow down and take the time to get to know the patients and take care with their treatment,” he said.

Supporting that mission is a dedicated team that includes a hygienist, dental assistant, and

office manager who work together to create a welcoming experience for patients from the moment they walk through the door.

Patient-centered care is at the heart of everything Greenway Dental does. Dr. Green believes dentistry extends far beyond diagnosing and treating teeth.

“Our smile plays a major role in our lives beyond our ability to eat and our overall health,” he said. “It affects our confidence, self-image, and the way other people see us.”

Because every patient has unique concerns and goals, he emphasizes the importance of listening carefully and understanding what brought someone into the office in the first place. That attention to individual needs is especially important for patients who may feel anxious about dental visits. To help create a more comfortable experience, Greenway Dental offers several amenities and options designed to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Patients are welcome to bring their own music, and the office provides blankets and pillows for added comfort. For those who need additional support, nitrous oxide and minimal sedation options are also available.

As Greenway Dental continues to grow, Dr. Green remains enthusiastic about serving the community that inspired him to put down professional roots in Broomfield. “What I enjoy most is the community,” he said. “Broomfield has a lot to offer and I am excited to be a part of it. The patients that I have here are some of the most pleasant people I have ever had the pleasure of treating.”

Greenway Dental at 303-421-6165 or online at www. greenwaydental.com

They are located at 6821 W. 120th Ave. Suite B • Broomfield 80020 (Corner of Main and 120th)

Happy 80th B thday to Nancy Wee!

On the Nieuw Amsterdam

Your Tour begins with a flight to Anchorage, where you will transfer to your hotel, spend the night before making your way to the Rail Depot. You will enjoy the McKinley Explorer to Talkeetna, and on to Denali. You will be transferred to your hotel. You will experience the Tundra Wilderness Tour and Denali at Leisure before boarding the Coach to be taken to Whittier where you will board the ship. Cruising Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and a Scenic cruise through the Inside Passage before debarking in Vancouver.

travel arrangements. Insurance must be purchased within 10 days of deposit.

CCOB is updating two major guiding documents: the Comprehensive Plan and Transportation Mobility Plan, through a process called Broomfield Together . Help shape Broomfield’s future by: Taking the survey

Engaging online activities

Signing up for project updates via the project web page

August

with fellow community members and local business owners.

August Sponsors

Use Up Your Garden Produce Recipes

By Lisa Payne

Some of my favorite seasonal produce is right now in August – corn, zucchini, peaches, cucumbers, peppers, and tomatoes. Here are a few of my favorite recipes utilizing one or more of these ingredients.

Thai Peanut Chicken Salad

For the chicken:

• 1/4 cup peanut butter

• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon red chili paste (such as sambal oelek)

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1/2 tablespoon ginger paste (or 1/2-inch fresh ginger, grated)

• 2-3 tablespoons of water to thin

• 1 pound chicken thighs (boneless & skinless), cut into cubes For the salad:

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage (or purple, or a mix)

www.cookingforkeeps.com

• 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions with tops

• 2 large carrots, peeled and grated (or sliced into ribbons)

• 1 cup cucumber, seeded and diced

• Large handful fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

• 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1/3 cup cashews, roughly chopped

Instructions:

Make the chicken marinade. Whisk together peanut butter, tamari, rice vinegar, garlic, chili paste, honey, ginger paste, and water until smooth. Place chicken thigh cubes in a glass container or bowl with a lid, and pour 1/2 cup of the marinade over them, reserving the rest for the salad dressing. Let sit for 15 minutes while you make the salad.

Make the salad. While the chicken marinates, combine all the salad veggies into one big bowl.

Sauté the chicken. Heat some olive or sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chicken thigh cubes and sauce to the pan and sauté until cooked through and tender.

Assemble the salad. Divide salad and chicken into bowls for however many are eating, and drizzle any remaining peanut dressing over the top.

Lisa Payne writes about home, food, and family. You can reach her at paynefam6@gmail.com. She also writes about Colorado’s best restaurants and spaces to gather on Substack: sundaysuppercolorado.substack.com.

One Pot Ratatouille

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cubed eggplant (about 1 medium eggplant)

• 1 teaspoon salt, divided

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided

• 3 cups cubed zucchini (about 2-3 medium zucchini)

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2-3 cups chopped tomatoes (or halved cherry tomatoes)

• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, slightly drained

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• A few sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

• Bread, pasta, or grains of choice for serving Instructions:

Strain eggplant. Place the eggplant cubes in a colander or strainer and sprinkle evenly with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. Set aside for 15-20 minutes while you chop the other veggies.

Sauté eggplant. Preheat a large pot over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of the extra virgin olive oil. Add eggplant and sauté until softened, 7-8 minutes. Transfer the eggplant to a separate large bowl and set aside.

Sauté zucchini. Add 1/2 tablespoon more of the olive oil, and add the zucchini to the pot. Sauté until just softened and bright green, about 5-6 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and transfer to the bowl with the eggplant.

Sauté remaining veggies. Add the rest of the olive oil to the pot, followed by onions, tomatoes, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until softened and tomatoes are bursting and releasing their juices (feel free to smoosh them with the back of a spoon as they burst!), about 8 minutes. Add another pinch of salt.

Simmer. Add the zucchini and eggplant back to the pot along with the chickpeas, the rest of the salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Stir everything together to incorporate, and increase heat slightly to bring to a simmer. Reduce to a low-medium heat to simmer, partially covered (let some steam escape), for 15-20 more minutes. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve with the best sourdough bread you can find!

INDEX

1st Choice Windows and Siding 1stchoicewindowsandsiding.com

3 Margaritas www.3margaritas.com

Advent Health Avista www.adventhealth.com/avista

Align Chiropractic and Wellness www.alignchirowellnessco.com

Allied Medical Aesthetics www.alliedmedicalaesthetics.com

Althaus Law www.althauslaw.com

Appearances Salon www.appearances.site

Arista Broomfield www.aristabroomfield.com

Aspen Creek Heating & Air www.aspencreekHC.com

Bal Swan Children’s Center www.balswan.org

Bath Tune-Up www.bathtune-up.com

Beyond the Brush Pro Painters 303-435-4960

Brenda French, CPA www.brendafrenchcpa.com

Broomfield Community Foundation broomfieldfoundation.org

Broomfield FISH www.broomfieldfish.org

Buenos Tiempos www.buenostiemposrestaurant.com

Chabad of Broomfield www.broomfieldjewishfestival.com

City and County of Broomfield www.broomfield.org

Coal Creek Plastic Surgery www.coalcreekplasticsurgery.com

Derby Bicycle Center www.derbybikes.com

DOC Automotive www.docautomotiverepair.com

Egress Inc. www.egressescapewindows.com

Family Hearing Center www.familyhearingco.com

FirsTier Bank www.firstierbanks.com

Flatiron Crossing www.flatironcrossing.com

Fowler Chevrolet www.fowlerchevrolet.net

Furn Consignment www.furnllc.com

GMP Plumbing www.gmpplumbingllc.com

Greenway Dental www.thegreenwaydental.com

Hope Davis - Country Insurance hope.davis@countryfinancial.com

In Memoriam www.inmemoriamservices.com

J&K Roofing jkroofing.com

JewelFire Diamonds of Broomfield www.jewelfireofbroomfield.com

KBCO Enterprises www.kbcoenterprises.com

Larson Wealth Planners www.larsonplanners.com

Live Love Dance www.livelovedance.net

M&M's Custom Carpentry MnMsCustomCarpentry.com

Motiveworks Auto www.motiveworksauto.com

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

Mt. Fuji Hibachi www.louisvillemtfuji.com

New York Life www.newyorklife.com

NOCO Community Mixer www.nococommunitymixer.com

Olson Lawn Care www.olsonoutdoors.com

Palisade Park Amphitheater palisadeparkamphitheater.com

Pearl Wok www.pearlwokrestaurant.com

Precision Vac www.precision-vac.com

Ramos Law www.ramoslaw.com/denver-broomfield School of Rock broomfield.schoolofrock.com

The DAB www.thedab.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

VisionSync Home Improvement visionsynchomeimprovement.com

Wee Travel www.weetravel.org

Windo Van Go www.windovango.org