School of Rock Broomfield teaches local students how to play — and perform — music through a handson approach to music education that puts live performance at the center of the learning process.
After years of planning, Broomfield Town Square is now on track for groundbreaking this fall.
Each year at the end of January, we host a celebration for the winners of the Our Broomfield, Our Favorites contest. It is a bowling and taco party at Chipper's Lanes. This now three-year tradition has become one of my "favorite" nights of the year.
I would invite the whole town if I could - but that is what Broomfield Days is for! This party includes family, friends, contest winners, and our local partner community and non-profit organizations. It is a fun night that definitely puts me in a Valentine's Day spirit as this is our own little Valentine to the aforementioned groups. I am writing this column in the after-glow of this year's party and will share details, photos, and thank yous next month.
The event supports the mission of Our Broomfield to create a community connectivity blanket across our City and County, from North to South and East to West, and with groups and organizations throughout.
Which reminds me, we have just upped our monthly circulation figure from 37,000 to 38,000! I am very excited about this as it augments our purpose! Our Broomfield is the only information source that reaches all of Broomfield. There are other publications, but they only cover a small part of that total footprint. Keep that in mind - wherever any other publication delivers, we mail to the same list and beyond! And our content also represents this Broomfield blanket!
Our local engagements reflect the same. My staff and I aim to be active and involved in our community week in and week out - because Broomfield is our heart!
You can read about two new initiatives to do this in this issue. First, on page 15, learn about the first Our Broomfield Magazine Community Mixer on February 26.
Second, check out page 20 to learn about the Broomfield 2026 Celebration and how to access a year-long calendar of events celebrating Broomfield's past, present, and future on the occasion of 65 years since Broomfield was incorporated as a City.
So much opportunity for connection, so much to warm your heart through the chilly February days and nights! And I look forward to seeing or meeting you soon at one of Broomfield's local opportunities to connect.
Happy Valentine's Day and thanks for reading, Tina
Tina Eichner, Editor & Publisher
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EDITOR & PUBLISHER
Tina Eichner
BUSINESS MANAGER
Pat Eichner
ART DIRECTOR
Stacey Horne
MANAGING EDITOR & SALES COORDINATOR
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ADVERTISING CONSULTANT
Tammy Degenhart
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Allison Eichner
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Andrea Wallace
Kristen Beckman
City of Broomfield
Lisa Payne
Melissa Ruzicka
Bette Erickson
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February 5
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Join the Broomfield Area Chamber for the 2026 Annual Meeting: The State of Broomfield on February 5, 2026 at Elevations Credit Union (1 Environmental Way, Broomfield). This premier gathering brings together business and community leaders to shape our city’s future, beginning at 7:30 a.m. with coffee and early entry. The formal program kicks off in the auditorium at 8:00 a.m., featuring updates from Mayor Guyleen Castriotta on the State of the City and Pat Monacelli on the State of the Chamber, followed by a fireside chat with local developers at 9:00 a.m. After the program concludes at 9:30 a.m., attendees are invited to the cafe for a full brunch and an hour of networking to connect with fellow professionals. To register visit https://www.broomfieldchamber.com/.
February 6
Calling all February birthdays! Senior community members can join the Senior Resources of Broomfield for a birthday lunch celebrating anyone who has a birthday in February. If it’s your birthday in February, SRB will buy you lunch! The birthday celebration is February 6 at the Lakeshore Cafe in the Broomfield Community Center. Reach out to Senior Services at BCC or check B-Rex to reserve your lunch. For more information, visit www. broomfield.org/370/Lakeshore-Cafe.
February 7
crew, no date is needed for this high-decibel rebellion. This event is for all ages with free admission, so come ready to rock! For more information visit https://www.schoolofrock. com/locations/broomfield.
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Experience the transformation of Dance Magic at Rocky Mountain Sports Club on February 14 at 9:30 a.m. Led by Alex Vaughan, this dynamic dance fitness party integrates body liberation and social justice into a high-energy celebration of your authentic self. Open to everyone—including the LGBTQIA+ community, allies, and people in recovery—this inclusive space honors all bodies and movement styles. Please arrive 15 minutes early with water and comfortable shoes. Whether you dance the full hour or take breaks, come enjoy a judgment-free zone of unbridled fun! Tickets are $25 (Free for Colorado Medicaid members). Purchase tickets on the Rocky Mountain Sports Club Facebook page.
Treat yourself to a well-deserved date night this Valentine’s Day while your kids enjoy an unforgettable evening at Live Love Dance! From 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., we are hosting a Parents' Night Out packed with high-energy dancing, creative crafts, a fun movie, and dinner—all in a safe, supervised environment. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today! Pricing starts at $45 for the first child, with significant family discounts: just $30 for a second child or $85 for families of three or four. Give your kids a party they’ll love while you enjoy your evening! Space is limited; call the studio to reserve your spot (303-957-6239).
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Forget the flowers and skip the romance—it’s time to get loud! Join us at 100 Nickel St. on Friday, February 13, for the School of Rock Anti-Valentine’s Day Show. We’re celebrating the best way we know how: with zero love songs and maximum volume. Bands from Broomfield, Fort Collins, and Loveland are converging to deliver an evening of high-energy, hard-rocking fun. Whether you're flying solo or bringing the whole
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Dive into local history as the Our Broomfield Lecture Series continues at the historic Crescent Grange on Tuesday, February 17, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. This special second installment of 2026 features presenter and former mayor Pat Quinn, who will explore the fascinating origins of "The Field" Open Space. As we celebrate the 110th anniversary of the Grange and the 65th anniversary of the City of Broomfield, come rediscover the stories that shaped our community’s landscape. Join us at 7901 W 120th Ave. for an evening of education and heritage. Come for the history, stay for the stories! Register for the lecture at www. crescentgrange.org. Learn all about Broomfield's 65th Anniversary events at this QR code.
Dr.
Enhancing-not
HowBy Lisa Payne
many times have you been in a situation and you have a strong feeling in the pit of your stomach that something isn’t right? Or that something is very right, such as meeting a new friend that feels like you’ve known them forever? We all have intuition and we all experience thoughts of fear. But how do you know which is which and what to trust?
Having a connection to our intuition is an excellent skill to have. It helps us differentiate good people from someone trying to take advantage of us. It can help us move towards a decision that feels right to us even when others disagree, and it can guide us to go left, right, or stay on the same path.
Let me tell you a true story. My father-in-law used to work for the FDA and would travel all over. There was a particular day when he was in Juno, Alaska, deciding where to fly next in his route of inspections. Back then all the flights out of Juno were water flights. He stood at the dock at the booth where you buy a ticket to get on the plane, almost like you are buying a ticket to get on a ride at the fair.
He stood there looking at the planes and went with his gut feeling to take the flight south instead of the flight that went north that day. He bought his ticket and got on the plane. Both flights took off. A while into the flight he heard over the pilot's air traffic control that the plane heading north had hit a glacier and went down with no survivors.
Now let us sit with that for a minute. Talk about seeing your life flash before your eyes. Not all gut feelings come with this drastic of an outcome, but it makes you want to learn to trust your intuition. He may not have known that he was being guided at the time, but I know in MY gut that his angels were watching over him.
Intuition is important but it’s complex. It’s our sixth sense. It’s a feeling of knowing beneath our cognitive understanding, knowing without being able to explain how we know. Many people believe we can access something bigger than ourselves when we pay attention. But it isn’t like looking into a crystal ball to tell the future. We have to use past experiences and trust ourselves to really listen.
Fear is a core emotion that tells us something is unsafe. It can be confused with feeling uncomfortable. You may feel fear taking a new job because of the unknown, but does the position feel unsafe or just uncomfortable? Facing the uncomfortable promotes growth, running from feeling unsafe keeps us alive.
There are ways to tell the difference between unreasonable fear and intuition. Intuition comes through when you feel calm and safe, not when you are already dysregulated. If you are feeling afraid, ask yourself if you are in danger or simply feeling stretched outside your comfort zone. An intuitive feeling will generally stick around and not be altered by mood cycles.
Ultimately, how does your body feel? If there is tension, nausea, or a sense of something being “not right” that is likely an intuitive “no.” If you are feeling settled, calm, and have the feeling that something is “right” even if it is outside of your comfort zone and comes with sadness, that is an intuitive “yes.”
With time and practice you will know. You may already know but choose to ignore. No matter your path, may your new year continue with mindful decisions so that you can continue to flourish, even outside of the familiar.
Lisa Payne writes about home, food, and family. You can reach her at paynefam6@gmail. com.
Join the BSO for a festive evening featuring Music of Spain and Latin America on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. at the Broomfield Auditorium. The BSO will be performing popular classics including Selections from “Danzas espanolas” by Enrique Granados, and “Huapango” by Jose Moncayo. We are especially excited to have guitar soloist Alex Komodore join us for this concert. He will perform “Fantasia para un gentilhombre” by Joaquin Rodrigo. Purchase tickets at www. BroomfieldSymphony.org.
Rocky Mountain Martial Arts – Front Range presents the 7th Annual Lunar New Year Community Celebration: Year of the Fire Horse on Sunday, February 22, at the Omni Interlocken Hotel. This family-friendly afternoon features live martial arts demonstrations, games, interactive experiences, food and drinks, and chances to support local youth through scholarships and community programming. Western flair encouraged. All are welcome. For tickets and full details visit www.rmmafrontrange.org.
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Our Broomfield Magazine would like to invite YOU to Zoe’s Coffee at 11225 Decatur St. #200 on Thursday, February 26th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to socialize and network. Enjoy an early evening gathering tailored to bring together ‘Our Broomfield community’—neighbors, friends, and local business owners alike. This is a great opportunity to chat with fellow community members, meet new people, and make meaningful connections. Enjoy a complimentary beverage at our favorite spot Zoe’s Coffee House. There will also be prize giveaways that you don’t want to miss. See you there!
Save the Date! March 7
BLUEPRINTS of Brilliance
The 62nd Annual Bal Swan Ball, "Blueprints of Brilliance," invites you into a world where imagination informs design and vision shapes our future. Inspired by the brilliance of visual thinkers, including keynote speaker Dr. Temple Grandin, this year’s Ball reveals what’s possible when innovation meets intention. Make it a weekend at the Omni Interlocken! We’ve reserved a special room block for the Bal Swan Ball on March 7, 2026. Enjoy a beautiful stay with waived destination fees, complimentary WiFi, and easy access to the event - all at a special rate for our guests. Book by February 6, 2026 to secure your room. To learn more visit www.balswan.ejoinme.org/blueprints.
By The City and County of Broomfield
Get ready for a spring season filled with arts and history programs highlighting storytelling, music, and hands-on discovery throughout Broomfield. From artist-in-residence programs for families to summer concerts and new exhibits at the Broomfield Depot Museum, these events offer opportunities to engage with arts and history in meaningful and memorable ways.
In February, Artist in Residence David Gonzalez will be conducting storytelling workshops in schools and a live performance at the Broomfield Auditorium. “Talking Birds and Golden Fish” is a new performance featuring animal tales from India, Persia, South America, and the Caribbean that explores themes of kindness, empathy, and shared humanity. Stories include the Jataka tale “Hummingbird and Tree,” the Persian fable “The Raven and the Pigeon,” and the Haitian tale “Margarita and the Golden Fish.” Gonzalez will also lead a free storytelling workshop for kids and families at the Broomfield Library Saturday, February 28 at 11 a.m., followed by a 2 p.m. performance in the Broomfield Auditorium. No registration is required for either event and there is no cost to attend.
Stop by the Broomfield Depot Museum to experience engaging exhibits, including “Station to Station,” currently
on display. The Depot Museum is free to visit and open most Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. In March, a new exhibit celebrating Broomfield’s beloved animals will open, leading up to the Shep Look-alike Contest on Saturday, April 18 at 2 p.m. Bring along a Shep-inspired pup to compete for fun prizes or just come to cheer, cast your vote for your favorite pooch, and enjoy the festivities.
Families are encouraged to stop by (even without a dog) to learn the story of Shep, a stray adopted by tollbooth workers at the Denver-Boulder Turnpike Broomfield exit (now US 36) in 1950, that quickly became famous among motorists passing through Broomfield. Attendees can explore the Depot Museum and discover a piece of Broomfield’s history from the days of the Denver-Boulder Turnpike in the 1960s. This program is all about history, community, and a whole lot of tail-wagging fun!
See the beauty of Broomfield through the Broomfield Public Art Passport, available at the Broomfield Library Children’s Desk or Reference Desk, while supplies last. Visit at least six public art installations listed in the passport to earn a limited-edition sticker, and continue the journey with a Public Art Book, also available at the library.
Looking ahead to the summer, plans are underway for the 2026 Summer Concert Series, which will expand to include a seventh concert in celebration of Juneteenth. Head over to Anthem Community park from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on June 10, 17, and 24 to boogie down with the whole family. On July 8, 15, 22, and 29, the shows move to Midway Park. There will be food trucks and activities for kids at every event in the series! And as always, concerts are free to attend.
To learn more about CCOB’s Arts and History programs, visit Broomfield.org/ArtsAndHistory.
To learn more about CCOB’s Arts and History programs, visit Broomfield.org/ArtsAndHistory.
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ABy Kristen Beckman
fter years of planning, Broomfield Town Square is now on track for groundbreaking this fall, according to Tim Fredregill, development executive at Outpost Partners, which is overseeing the project’s planning, financing, permitting, and coordination of its public and private mixed-use components in collaboration with local real estate investment and placemaking partner City Street Investors.
Fredregill, who provided a detailed update to the Broomfield City Council in September 2025, answered questions about site work, financing, and project timelines, giving council members a clear view of the ambitious mixed-use development. The town square is envisioned as a vibrant downtown hub, combining retail, residential, and public spaces around a central plaza and interactive lake.
Construction drawing level design by the development team for the site continues. Soil sampling
The project spans roughly 40 acres at Main Street and 1st Avenue, which includes the lake, beach and adjacent walkways, and is designed to foster an “active lifestyle” environment.
near the existing pond was conducted for groundwater testing to inform the lake design. Once the construction drawings are completed, they will be submitted to the Engineering Division for review.
Fredregill said the lake’s water feature, connecting the lake to the plaza, is progressing well and will be “beautiful and interactive.” He confirmed that the permit set of construction documents will be submitted this March, in preparation for fall construction.
“Staff remains eager and prepared to review the long-anticipated construction documents, a key milestone that brings the Broomfield Town Square project closer to visible progress and on-the-ground activity,” said Jennifer Hoffman, City and County Manager.
KEYNOTE & BOOK SIGNING BY DR
The pioneering voice for neurodiverse learners, visual thinking and innovation joins the Bal Swan Ball for an inspiring keynote and an exclusive book signing featuring Different Kinds of Minds and The Outdoor Scientist Join us March 7 at the Omni Interlocken
Celebrate Broomfield's Past, Present, and Future all Year Long!
2026 kicks off Colorado's 150th anniversary celebration, its sesquicentennial, coinciding with America's 250th (semi sesquicentennial) celebration. On top of that, it is the 65th Anniversary of the City of Broomfield and the 25th for Broomfield County!
Fredregill also addressed ongoing financing for the project. HUD financing applications have been submitted for two multi-family communities — a 318-unit building framing the public plaza and a 161-unit building near the tennis courts — with lender interest in both. Bond sales for district infrastructure are planned for fall 2026 and the private financings to close shortly thereafter. Fredregill acknowledged market challenges, including rising interest rates and equity availability, but expressed confidence in the project’s financial viability.
The project plan comprises a new lake anchored on the south by a plaza with trails; three new 4-5 story buildings along the southern half of the lake for senior housing as well as apartments with retail, restaurant, and similar ground floor commercial spaces; 12 townhome units on the east side of Main Street; and redevelopment of the former Safeway store site into a market hall. The market hall is envisioned as a central space that will anchor the town square experience and will include retail, dining, co-working space, and community and common areas.
Marketing for retail in the plaza is expected to open soon, and Fredregill encourages local businesses to consider taking root in the “heart” of Broomfield. City Street Investors, experts in crafting vibrant main street experiences, aims to activate the project’s retail and public spaces, including many food, beverage, and community gathering venues.
The project also calls for a beer garden of roughly 5,000 square feet, with both indoor and outdoor components. Al-
The Broomfield Historical Society and a large committee of local organization representative is organizing a series of events for the full year, including historical lectures, trivia nights, and special community events. Get the full list of events here: broomfieldhistoricalsociety.org/ events/category/broomfield-2026/
Our Broomfield Magazine is the exclusive marketing sponsor of Broomfield 2026.
Have you wondered about how Broomfield came to be?
The Broomfield 2026 Speaker Series presented by Our Broomfield Magazine and the Crescent Grange will dive into numerous aspects of our community and tell the stories of the creation of Broomfield.
For more information visit: www.crescentgrange.org www.ourbroomfield.com or www.broomfieldhistoricalsociety.org.
though it is not fully permitted yet, the beer garden has been a longstanding community request and is considered a near-certainty by the developer.
Broomfield Town Square has been in the works for nearly a decade, conceived as a central gathering place and economic catalyst. The project spans roughly 40 acres at Main Street and 1st Avenue, which includes the lake, beach and adjacent walkways, and is designed to foster an “active lifestyle” environment, blending residences, restaurants, retail, and community gathering areas. Early concepts were inspired by European piazzas, emphasizing pedestrian circulation, public gathering spaces, and interactive art. A Business Improvement District (BID) and Urban Renewal Area (URA) approved by the city has supported infrastructure and financing for the project.
For more information visit https://www. broomfield.org/4067/Broomfield-TownSquare.
By Melissa Ruzicka
Each year, the Bal Swan Ball brings together families, alumni, educators, and supporters to celebrate a place that has changed countless lives. Bal Swan Children’s Center is not just a school. It is a community rooted in compassion, innovation, and the belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive. This year’s Ball shines even brighter with the arrival of keynote speaker Dr. Temple Grandin, a world-renowned voice for autism awareness and inclusive education.
Since 1963, Bal Swan has been a leader in early childhood education, long before inclusive learning became widely understood. The program brings children of all abilities together in a strengths-based environment that values empathy, confidence, and community. Families like the Shores and Jacobsons, and so many others have shared how Bal Swan gave them support during their most vulnerable moments and empowered their children to grow beyond expectations.
Temple Grandin’s presence at this year’s Ball is especially meaningful. A pioneer in education and neurodiversity advocacy, Dr. Grandin has spent her life championing the potential within every child. She often reminds us, “There needs to be a lot more emphasis on what a child can do instead of what he cannot do.” This philosophy mirrors the heart of Bal Swan, where every child is seen for their abilities, their strengths, and their unique way of learning.
The Bal Swan Ball presented by Varra Companies is more than an elegant evening. It is a celebration of courage and resilience, as well as the staff, families, and children who make the
“There needs to be a lot more emphasis on what a child can do instead of what he cannot do.”
school extraordinary. It is also a vital part of the Campus of Connections Campaign, a 10 million dollar effort to rebuild the 62 year-old school and create a modern, inclusive learning environment for future generations. More than two million dollars has already been raised, with an additional three million needed to unlock foundation support and break ground by summer 2027.
The new campus will feature thoughtful designs that support learning and well-being, including calming sensory informed spaces, in-classroom bathrooms and sinks, and updated heating and cooling systems. Most importantly, it will expand access so even more children can benefit from the inclusive approach that makes Bal Swan a model for communities across Colorado and the nation.
This year’s Ball invites guests to invest in that future. It is a chance to honor the past, celebrate the present, and ensure that the next generation of Broomfield’s children continues to experience belonging in its truest form. The stories shared by families over the years reflect a powerful truth. Bal Swan is where children discover their abilities, where parents find hope, and where a community learns to embrace differences with love and acceptance.
As Temple Grandin teaches, the world thrives when we lift up every kind of thinker and learner. The Bal Swan Ball is a testament to that belief and a celebration of everything the school continues to make possible. Come join us for the 62nd-annual Bal Swan Ball: Blueprints of Brilliance presented by Varra Companies, on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at the Omni Interlocken Hotel, where our community will gather for an evening that celebrates the heart and future of Bal Swan.
To learn more or buy tickets visit www.balswan. ejoinme.org/blueprints.
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“Grandma hobbies” aren’t about age— they’re about values. They prioritize care over speed, creativity over consumption, and meaning over trends.
By Andrea Wallace
In a world that seems to demand nearly constant productivity, there’s something quietly rebellious in slowing down. “Grandma hobbies” – a phrase I find both affectionate and endearing – are having a well-deserved moment, not because they belong to the past, but because they offer exactly what many of us are craving now: comfort, creativity, and connection.
Artistic hobbies traditionally associated with grandmothers—knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidery, and painting engage the hands and quiet the mind. My daughter, Leandra, is a terrific self-taught crocheter.
Within the last year she has also learned the art of quilting. Knitting a scarf or embroidering a simple pattern isn’t about perfection, it’s about process. With each stitch these crafts encourage patience and focus.
While many crafts are often done solo, they also carry a strong sense of connection passed down through generations or shared in groups and classes. I am fortunate to be part of a group that meets a few times a year to craft together. The host picks a craft, gathers the supplies, and provides guidance. We enjoy friendship, snacks, conversation, and a shared love for creating.
Few things feel as comforting as a well-worn recipe card or the smell of something baking in the oven. Cooking and home-centered hobbies are, in my view, the cornerstone of
“grandma hobbies,” blending creativity with care for our loved ones. Baking cookies or bread, making soup from scratch, preserving family recipes, or preparing a comfort meal for a friend transforms the kitchen into a creative and nurturing space. These activities nourish not just the body, but also the soul. Food has a way of telling stories about culture, family, and love without saying a word.
Within the past year or so I hopped on the sour dough bandwagon. It has been a wonderful lesson in patience for me. I often repeat the sentiment that cooking is an art, and baking is a science. And in that regard, I am an artist. I've aptly named my sour dough starter "Patience." Through watching countless videos and reading blogs I've gotten much more comfortable with the whole process. I plan to share more about that in the future.
Gardening may be one of the most grounding “grandma hobbies” of all, pun intended. From seed to harvest, gardening teaches us to work with seasons rather than against them, to accept imperfections, and to celebrate success whether it’s a new leaf, a blooming flower, or a ripe tomato. Gardening offers us physical movement, time outdoors, and a tangible reward for care and consistency. More than that, it fosters a quiet connection to nature that feels increasingly precious in modern life.
“Grandma hobbies” aren’t about age—they’re about values. They prioritize care over speed, creativity over consumption, and meaning over trends. These hobbies comfort us because they ask us to slow down and create something real. In embracing them, we’re not looking backward, we’re reclaiming a way of living that offers sustainability while honoring creativity as a form of self-care. And in a busy world, that may be the most modern lifestyle choice of all.
By Melissa Ruzicka
“Reading is like a passport to countless adventures.” –Mary Pope Osborne
As winter settles over Colorado, there is no better time to curl up with a book. Broomfield Library’s 52 Week Reading Challenge is back for 2026, inviting readers of all ages to explore new stories, discover favorite authors, and enjoy fresh adventures every week. Whether you are a lifelong reader or hoping to spark a new habit, the library’s prompts will guide you through a year of imag-
ination, laughter, and discovery. This year, the challenge features 52 brand new prompts designed to inspire readers of all ages. Some highlights include celebrating May the 4th with an intergalactic adventure perfect for Star Wars: Thrawn Ascendancy by Timothy Zahn for teens and adults, or Star Wars: Jedi Academy by Jeffrey Brown for kids. There is a prompt for a story that travels through time, with adult readers diving into The Future of Another Timeline by Annalee Newitz, teens exploring Caroline B. Cooney’s Time Travelers Quartet, and younger readers enjoying Magic Tree House
adventures. Diversity and inclusion are celebrated in prompts like reading Furia by Yamile Saied Méndez for teens or the picture book The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad for children.
Some prompts encourage readers to try books told from multiple perspectives, such as Trust by Hernan Diaz for adults, One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus for teens, or A Big Mooncake for Little Star by Grace Lin for kids. Other prompts challenge readers to explore stories set entirely in one day, laugh out loud tales, or staff favorites that might lead to your next obsession.
For fans of mysteries and the great outdoors, the National Park Mystery Se ries by Aaron Johnson is a perfect fit, of fering clever, nature filled adventures for both kids and adults alike. Adults might also enjoy Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens or Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus, teens might love The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Pérez or Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston, and younger readers will delight in Big Nate Blasts Off by Lincoln Peirce or Ada Twist Scientist by Andrea Beaty.
“The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library.” – Albert Einstein
Participating is easy through Beanstalk, the library’s reading platform, where you can log your books, check off prompts, and track your progress. The challenge works for individuals, families, or friend groups, making reading a shared adventure. From intergalactic battles and magical worlds to heartfelt stories of friendship and courage, the 52 Week Reading Challenge offers something for everyone. Stop by the library, pick up your prompts, and start your journey today because your next great adventure is just a page away.
“Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.” – Mason Cooley
To learn more about Broomfield Library’s 52 Week Reading Challenge visit broomfield.beanstack.org/ reader365.
By Melissa Ruzicka
Althaus Law is a trusted name in estate planning and probate law, serving Colorado families with compassion, expertise, and a deep commitment to community. With offices in Northglenn at 11150 Huron Street, Suite 100, and in Longmont at 700 Ken Pratt Boulevard, Suite 113, the firm has become known for making one of life’s most sensitive topics, planning for the future, accessible and understandable.
Founded by attorney Jeff Althaus, the firm focuses on Estate Planning and uncontested Probate, helping individuals and families protect their assets, plan for the unexpected, and secure their legacies. Jeff’s easy to read guide on estate planning, You Only Die Once, has become a bestselling book that breaks down complex legal topics into clear, relatable language. It reflects the firm’s mission to educate and empower clients, whether they work with Althaus Law or not.
are designed to empower attendees with knowledge, whether or not they choose to become clients.
“His [the attorney’s] precision and attention to detail combined with occasional humor helped us relax as we dealt with difficult matters.”
Althaus Law’s reputation speaks for itself, with over 400 fivestar Google reviews and recent recognition as the Best of the Best 2025 for Attorney in Northglenn and Best Attorney 2025 in the Longmont Times Call’s Best of Longmont. These honors highlight the firm’s commitment to excellence and client care, but what truly sets them apart is their people-first approach.
Clients frequently praise the firm for its professionalism and supportive approach. As one client shared, “His [the attorney’s] precision and attention to detail combined with occasional humor helped us relax as we dealt with difficult matters.” This feedback reflects the firm’s focus not only on legal expertise but also on making the process approachable and reassuring.
Education is central to Althaus Law’s practice. The firm regularly provides free presentations on estate planning and probate throughout the community, helping people learn about their options for securing their future. These sessions
Beyond legal work, Althaus Law is deeply involved in giving back. The firm donates to and volunteers with local charities and community organizations each quarter. One of their biggest passions is a love for animals. The office is dog friendly, often home to well-behaved four-legged “fur friends,” and each June, the firm hosts its annual event, Althaus Paws.
Althaus Paws brings together clients, neighbors, and animal lovers for a cookout and adoption event in partnership with a local shelter. In recent years, the firm has worked with Max Fund, helping dogs and cats find their forever homes while raising awareness about animal adoption and welfare.
For the team at Althaus Law, their work is about more than drafting documents or navigating legal processes, it’s about helping people protect what matters most. From their client focused approach to their ongoing community outreach, they embody what it means to serve with integrity, compassion, and heart. With a dedicated team, an educational mission, and a genuine love for their community and its pets, Althaus Law continues to make a positive impact across Colorado, one family, one legacy, and one wagging tail at a time.
For more information, visit their offices in Northglenn or Longmont, or explore their website at www.althauslaw.com.
By Kristen Beckman
chool of Rock Broomfield teaches local students how to play — and perform — music through a hands-on approach to music education that puts live performance at the center of the learning process. “School of Rock is a performance-based music school, which means we not only teach music lessons, our students also learn to play and perform music together,” said Jennifer Moriarta, owner and general manager of School of Rock Broomfield.
The original School of Rock launched about 25 years ago, and the Broomfield location has since grown into a familiar presence in the community, serving students of all ages and experience levels. Unlike traditional music lessons that emphasize individual practice, School of Rock’s curriculum is built around collaboration, confidence and real-world performance. “Our mission is to ‘enrich lives through performance-based music education,’ and that truly is what we strive to accomplish every day,” Moriarta said.
School of Rock specializes in the classic rock band lineup, including guitar, bass, keyboard, drums, and vocals. While rock music forms the foundation of the curriculum, the repertoire spans a wide range of genres, including pop, punk, blues, funk, metal, indie, and alternative. The school’s instructional model combines one-on-one private lessons with weekly group rehearsals. Students receive personalized instruction on their instrument, then apply those skills in a band setting, learning how to listen, collaborate and perform as part of a team.
“We don’t teach music to put on shows, we put on shows to teach music,” Moriarta said. That philosophy also helps make music education more accessible. Students do not need extensive experience to join a band, and beginners are welcomed alongside more advanced musicians. Instructors are trained
to guide groups with mixed ages and skill levels, ensuring every student has a meaningful role and a clear path to progress.
Performance is a constant at School of Rock Broomfield. Student bands perform year-round at local venues, community events, and city celebrations throughout the Denver-Boulder area. Over the years, bands have played everywhere from elementary schools to major stages, including Red Rocks. The school’s active presence has made it a recognizable part of the local music scene, and residents can also book the School of Rock House Band for private and community events. While many students are school-aged, School of Rock Broomfield has also built a strong adult program that mirrors the experience offered to younger musicians. Adult students take lessons, rehearse in bands, and perform live, creating a supportive and collaborative community. Participants range from young adults to retirees in their 70s, with experience levels spanning longtime musicians and those picking up an instrument later in life. Weekly rehearsals provide structure and motivation, helping students stay committed despite busy schedules and competing responsibilities. Beyond the technical skills and documented cognitive benefits of learning an instrument, Moriarta believes music’s greatest
value lies in its longevity and sense of
“You can play music your whole life and the journey is truly never over — there’s always more to discover,” she said. School of Rock Broomfield welcomes students and adults of all skill levels. New band sessions start in January, and the school offers lessons for ages 7 and up, as well as summer camps. Interested participants can request a free trial lesson by visiting broomfield. schoolofrock.com, calling 303-325-3772, or emailing broomfield@schoolofrock.com. You can also follow the school on social media channels at @schoolofrockbroomfield for updates on performances and events. For more information visit broomfield.schoolofrock. com.
By Lisa Payne
Ithink this is year seven where I tell everyone that I don’t care for eating out on Valentine’s Day. I love to cook at home with my family. This year I am thinking of what to make to show them I love them. What do I want love to taste like? At this exact moment, this is the recipe I choose.
Serves 6
Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 3 chicken breasts, sliced in half length-wise to create 6 cutlets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (can also use gluten-free flour blend or white whole wheat)
• 3 eggs, whisked
• 1/3 cup olive oil
For the Breadcrumbs
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/2 tsp (each) salt & pepper
• 2 tsp Italian herb blend (thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Topping
• 6 slices fresh Mozzarella
• 2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra if serving with pasta)
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425F
Tenderize chicken: Place chicken cutlets/breasts in a large ziplock bag or between two sheets of parchment paper. Firmly pound with a rolling pin or the smooth side of a meat hammer (chicken thickness should be 1/2 inch). Remove cutlets from the bag and pat dry with paper towels. Mix breadcrumbs: In a shallow dish, combine all of breadcrumb ingredients together.
Assembly line: Set up a line of shallow bowls/dishes with flour, whisked eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Bread the chicken: First, coat the chicken in flour on both sides, then shake off the excess flour that isn't sticking. Transfer to whisked eggs, then dip into the breadcrumbs. Use your hands to gently pack the breadcrumbs onto each side of the chicken. Repeat until all the cutlets have been breaded.
Brown the chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of oil at a time in a cast iron skillet or pan on low to medium heat. Brown chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until the breading is golden.
Layer and bake: Arrange browned chicken in a large baking dish or pan. Layer first with mozzarella slices then tomato sauce over top. Bake uncovered in the oven for 14 minutes. Remove from the oven, then sprinkle with shredded parmesan cheese. Then broil on high for 1 minute until the cheese is melted and browned. Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve with cooked linguine and extra marinara sauce.
Instructions for Baked Chicken Parmesan: Preheat the oven to 450F. Follow steps 2-5 above, then after breading the chicken, lay the cutlets in a generously oiled baking pan. Spray the chicken with olive oil, or brush with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and layer with mozzarella, sauce, and parmesan and bake for 5 additional minutes. Broil on HIGH for the last minute for the cheese to brown. Serve with fresh basil.
Lisa Payne writes about home, food, and family. You can reach her at paynefam6@gmail.com.
By Bette Erickson
Photographer Tim Seibert with two of his favorite views. Courtesy photos
Editor’s Note: Each month Our Broomfield Magazine profiles different members of the community. Through Our People: Meet “insert name,” our goal is to introduce Broomfield area change-makers and highlight their contributions.
Tim Seibert and his wife, Debbie, have lived in Broomfield since 1997. The Seiberts moved from McHenry, IL with their two sons, Doug and Greg, because Tim accepted a job with the Rocky Mountain News. Since that time, the family has added two daughters-in-law and five grandchildren. Says Tim, “I used to say I love photographing mountains and homes, they do not blink, have quirky smiles, or have an opinion. However, now with five grandchildren I enjoy photographing them and I have changed that view. They call me Paparazzi!”
Q. What did you enjoy most about your job? For my 30+ years in newspaper circulation management, I enjoyed the early morning hours, the carriers and my co-workers. Our goal was to provide superior customer service.
Q. Tell us a little about your career path. The inspiration for my photography career was sown during those early newspaper shifts—first at the Chicago Tribune, then the Rocky Mountain News, and finally the Daily Camera. I think it was all those early mornings... witnessing the early light is what inspired me to grab a camera, the quiet and peace during
those early hours is a spiritual experience. That passion was solidified in 2008 when I won the Colorado State Parks “Signs of Spring” photo contest. It was a major confidence builder that led me to sell prints at Art Mart in Boulder and Wild Spirits Gallery in Estes Park. I love capturing the beauty in nature; however, I started Flatirons Pro Media 13 years ago photographing homes for sale, rentals, and capturing people at events having fun. For me, the adage has finally come true: “When you love your job, you never work a day in your life.”
Q. How did you get into photography? Once I moved here, I noticed all of the natural beauty. The glow of the first light of day reflecting on the Indian Peaks and the Flatirons is amazing. That light really is purple, and I understood the poem “America the Beautiful.” I felt I had to share this beauty with my family and friends back home. I bought my first decent film camera in May of 2000.
Q. How do readers find your photographs online? https://www.timseibertphotography.com/
Q. What is your favorite restaurant and park in Broomfield? I have several open spaces that I enjoy photographing, but my favorite is not an open space, it is a park. I have the most success photographing Anthem Community Park. It has great mountain views to the west and a colorful sunrise can be captured reflecting in Siena Reservoir.
Q. Who is the most interesting person, past or present, you’ve met in our community? Gerry Case (now deceased). I met Gerry at the Broomfield Photo Club over 15 years ago. We became friends and went to the mountains together every chance we could. Getting up three hours before sunrise to be on location for a shoot didn’t bother Gerry. While he was retired when I met him, he was always busy. He was active in the Rotary, the Art Guild, his church and God knows what else. I joked, if his schedule was an example of retirement, I don’t want any part of it.
Q. What is something you find unique about Broomfield? While I once thought I had to trek deep into the mountains for the perfect shot, I eventually realized that some of the best Front Range views are right here. Broomfield has amazing mountain views. I call the trailhead at Lac Amora Open Space Broomfield’s front row seat with two shows daily: sunrise and sunset.
Q. What advice would you give to people living in or relocating to Broomfield? Enjoy our parks, open space, and trails. Venture into the mountains, too.
Bette Erickson writes about people, places and events. Contact her at bette_erickson@hotmail.com.
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Advent Health Avista www.adventhealth.com/avista
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Be Loved - Theresa Battista 720-471-8340
Brenda French, CPA www.brendafrenchcpa.com
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Chipper's Lanes www.chipperslanes.com/100nickel City and County of Broomfield www.broomfield.org
Coal Creek Plastic Surgery www.coalcreekplasticsurgery.com
Coverwell Solutions www.coverwell.com
Derby Bicycle Center www.derbybikes.com
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Greenway Dental www.thegreenwaydental.com
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Inner Circle Bookkeeping www.innercirclebookkeeping.com
JewelFire Diamonds of Broomfield www.jewelfireofbroomfield.com
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M&M's Custom Carpentry 720-750-0854
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Mr. Dino’s Kitchen & Bath www.mrdinosbaths.com
Mt. Fuji Sushi & Hibachi www.mtfujilouisville.com
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Pearl Wok www.pearlwokrestaurant.com
Planet Fitness www.planetfitness.com/gyms/broomfield-co
Precision Vac www.precision-vac.com
Ramos Law www.ramoslaw.com/denver-broomfield
Rocky Mountain Martial Arts rockymountainmartialarts.com
Rocky Mountain Sports Club rockymountainsportsclub.com
School of Rock broomfield.schoolofrock.com
The Dab Broomfield 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
Wee Travel www.weetravel.org
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