Broomfield has three official sister cities throughout the world: Ueda, Japan; Oklahoma’s Cheyenne and Arapahoe Tribes; and Lalitpur, Nepal.
Our Broomfield™ is a magazine for all of us because it’s our community. It’s Our Broomfield.
When you purchase a ticket, you’re making a visible statement that arts, culture, and innovation belong at the center of a thriving community.
Time. Out of all the measures of mortality - its impact, value, or quality - the single measure dwarfing all others is time. What did we do with it? How much did we get? How much has passed? How much is left? How did it shape us? What did we learn from it?
Last month my parents celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. As part of the celebration, we went out for a nice lunch. Just Mom and Dad and the grown-up kids (my siblings and our spouses). When you pause and let there be quiet - there is room for sharing. On the drive to the restaurant and during lunch my parents each reflected on a few childhood memories and stories - things they remembered about their growing up and their parents and grandparents. Our destination had sparked some easy nostalgia. A few stories and facts were shared that I had never heard before!
It made me face that I have left an important intention little touched. About a year ago I started to gather old photos, documents, and news clippings, along with some shared stories of my grandparents and great grandparents, with an aim to stitch them together for meaningful sharing with the next generation. Preserving history does not happen by itself. Action is required. Asking the questions, documenting the answers, and packaging them up for sharing and preservation. And then sharing! 2026 is a meaningful year for America, our State, and for Broomfield, Colorado. It is:
The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
The 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood
The 65th anniversary of the founding of the City of Broomfield
The 25th anniversary for the establishment of the City and County of Broomfield
The Broomfield Historical Society has convened volunteers from across Broomfield's arts, history, non-profit, education, and community scene to put together a series of events to commemorate the occasion, dubbed Broomfield 2026. I am honored to be part of this committee and have met and gotten to know some very interesting people! The shared passion for preserving and sharing our collective history is inspiring!
You can learn more about the resulting monthly events and activities in our calendar of events each month and in a summary write-up on page 24. You can learn more about the lady who is leading our faithful group of Time Bandits on page 38. Broomfield's Roberta Depp is highlighted in Our People and we share a bit about her story as one of the keepers of Broomfield's memory.
In January, we learned about Broomfield's early farm community and how the Historic Crescent Grange was an important part of establishing and maintaining community at that time. In February, former Mayor Pat Quinn shared the story of The Field and Broomfield's Open Space. Beautiful parks, natural preserves, and sweeping vistas don't happen by accident. In some cases, Broomfield's massive park and open space footprint was quite hard fought so that you and I can enjoy today! In April, you can join Fred Martin at the Crescent Grange to hear the story of the Zang familywhich had great impacts on early Broomfield and throughout the state.
I hope to see you and meet you at one of these upcoming events happening each month, all year long. Until then, you must excuse me, I've got a little writing to do ...
Thanks for reading, Tina
EDITOR & PUBLISHER
Tina Eichner
BUSINESS MANAGER
Pat Eichner
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ASSISTANT EDITOR
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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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. Bal Swan Children’s Center is an inclusive preschool that prioritizes a nurturing environment and social emotional foundation for all students and families. To purchase tickets to the Ball, visit www.balswan. com/events. If you cannot attend the event, you can make a one time donation to support Bal Swan at www.balswan.com/donate-now.
This program is scheduled in honor of Women’s History Month featuring Broomfield’s own Colleen Sawyer, historical re-enactor, who will share the story of Frances Perkins who was a fierce workers’ rights advocate, the first woman to be in a U.S. president’s
cabinet, an instrumental visionary in the design and implementation of U.S. social security, and a formidable presence in U.S. history. Join us at the Broomfield Depot Museum to learn more about Frances Perkins and her legacy. There will be two programs at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. This program is part of the Broomfield 2026 Lecture Series sponsored by Our Broomfield Magazine. To learn more visit broomfieldhistoricalsociety.org/broomfield2026-calendar/
Step into an evening where generosity transforms into rest, renewal, and hope at the Grant a Dream Foundation’s 2026 Night of Dreams Gala. Join us on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Chateaux at Fox Meadows in Broomfield. This formal night is dedicated to funding life-giving restorative getaways for caregivers and parents raising children with special healthcare needs. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., inviting you to a festive evening filled with a three-course plated meal, drinks, and inspiring stories from Dream recipient families. Guests can participate in silent and live auctions featuring unique experiences and curated packages, with every contribution directly funding future caregiver Dreams. Your attendance provides a vital break for parents who give everything, helping them return home rejuvenated and reconnected. Purchase tickets online at www.grantadream.org.
WhenBy Lisa Payne
March rolls around, the only thing I can think about is spring cleaning and decluttering. This year I’ve also been thinking about cleaning the mental clutter and prioritizing calm and peace in my life. Can any of you relate? I am tired. I’m tired of information overload. I’m tired of cortisol surges when I see the news. I’m tired of watching my kids spend their spare time scrolling. I’m tired of the disconnect that is taking over the world.
I recently sat down and came up with a list of things I can choose from when I need a mental reset. A list of things that I can do for myself that don’t cost any money, don’t require much time, and will result in putting a smile back on my face. I also plan to have my kids do one of these things as well, or come up with their own list. They are always happier when they have been away from their phones (me included).
1. Stand outside barefoot in the grass and deep breathe for 5 minutes
2. Put on a song and force myself to dance when I’m really crabby
3. Stretch for a few minutes, including starting my day laying on the ground with my legs up the wall
4. When I’m in my head, write until there is nothing left to say and then throw it away
5. Hand write a letter to a loved one telling them why I love them
6. Call someone on the phone instead of sending a text
7. Cook a meal and eat it on the floor in front of the fire
8. Stare at a burning candle for 10 minutes and see where my mind takes me
9. Learn a new skill from YouTube
10. Work on a puzzle a few minutes each day
11. Have reset Sundays, no commitments
12. Reread nice cards and letters people have given me
13. Show up for a friend. Attend their kids sporting event, make them cookies for no reason, ask them to walk
14. Take a bath filled with Epsom salts and essential oils for water therapy
15. Write yourself a note listing all the wonderful things about yourself that you admire
16. Lay on the floor with my dog and pet him for awhile
17. Leave a love note on my husband’s pillow
18. Tell each of my kids, in person with my voice, sincere appreciation for something I admire about their character
19. Spend 10 minutes a day deleting photos on my phone that don’t make my heart leap with joy
20. Meditate for a few minutes
21. Color
22. Read
23. Rearrange something, anything
24. Make fruit water
25. Smile at myself in front of the mirror when I am being critical of myself
This list will change and evolve but I’m sticking to picking something as many times a day as I need. I hope my list grows to 100 things. I would love to see your list! My email is below.
I wish you a beautiful spring filled with new blossoms, new shifts, new mindsets and new rituals that make your heart sing.
Lisa Payne writes about home, food, and family. You can reach her at paynefam6@gmail.com.
BackStory Theatre summons you to your civic duty for their 2026 BYLP production of the classic courtroom drama, 12 Angry Jurors. Taking place on March 15th at The Crescent Grange in Broomfield, this production follows twelve jurors as they deliberate the fate of a young defendant. What begins as an open-and-shut case quickly spirals into a heated exploration of prejudice, logic, and justice as one lone dissenter forces the group to face their own biases. Experience this battle of wits at either 2:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and children under 12. Purchase your tickets ahead of time online at www.onthestage. tickets/backstory-theatre or at the door for a small fee.
Join us for the AdventHealth Avista Foundation’s Annual Wellness Luncheon on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the Omni Interlocken Hotel. This meaningful afternoon supports community health, with proceeds funding the Invenia ABUS Premium—an AI-enabled automated ultrasound system designed to revolutionize early breast cancer detection. The event kicks off at 10:30 a.m. with networking, followed by lunch at 11:30 a.m. and a keynote address by Jerry Schemmel at noon. Bring a friend to experience a day of connection and generosity as we work together to expand access to women’s wellness. Register for the event at www.adventhealth.com/ foundation/adventhealth-rocky-mountainfoundation.
Local Realtor and community connector Robbin Merta is introducing the first Broomfield Home Expo on Saturday, April 11 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn. The goal is simple. Bring a wide range of trusted home service providers together in one place so homeowners can easily explore their options in a single afternoon. Designed to feel approachable and community focused, the expo will feature more than 30 local vendors representing a broad spectrum of interior and exterior home services. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door, and kids 17 and younger are free! Visit www. broomfieldhomeexpo.com for more information and to buy tickets.
Join the Broom field Council on the Arts and Hu manities for the Starry Night Out Gala on April 17, 2026, at The Establishment in Westmin ster for an evening of cosmic wonder and community impact. This immersive experience features a Creative Immersion Room, the “Telescope Lounge,” and captivating live performances alongside gourmet catered food and drinks. Guests can participate in live and silent auctions or test their luck in our signature Rock Paper Scissors competition. Secure your tickets now at www. onecau.se/starrynightout to take advantage of special pre-launch pricing available through April 1st.
By The City and County of Broomfield
Thank you to everyone who joined the City and County of Broomfield and North Metro Fire Rescue District for the Wildfire Emergency Response and Preparedness Town Hall on Feb. 23.
The safety of the Broomfield community remains a top priority. For those who couldn't make it, we had a productive evening discussing evacuation protocols, verifying communication channels, and sharing actionable steps every household can take today.
Key Takeaways from the Town Hall Public Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility
• Be prepared: Residents should understand what is needed to be prepared and you never need to wait for an official notice to evacuate if you feel unsafe.
Have a Plan
• We reviewed the “how and why” behind local evacuation orders to ensure every resident knows when and how to move safely.
• Create your go-bag ahead of time; at least the list of what needs to be grabbed quickly.
• Think about multiple ways out of your neighborhood if an evacuation is called for, and make these drives ahead of time so you are familiar and comfortable with them.
• Identify in advance a place to go when you evacuate. For example, a friend or family member’s home or a hotel. If you have pets, make sure the location is pet friendly.
• All loved ones should know this common meeting point in case you are not together during an evacuation.
• In an emergency, communication channels often go down or get inundated. Take one car when evacuating to ease traffic and ensure your family stays together.
Stay Informed
• Use only verified, real-time sources during an emergency. Ensure you are signed up for emergency notifications through LookoutAlert and CCOB Alert Center on Broomfield.org.
Prepare Your Home
• Small, practical steps—like clearing dry plants and debris
around your house, keeping roofs and gutters clean, covering vents to keep embers out, and leaving space between trees and buildings can lower the chance of a fire reaching your home. Missed the meeting? You can watch the full recording of the presentation and the community Q&A at Broomfield.org/ WildfireTownHall.
Resources:
• Sign up for emergency notifications through LookoutAlert at Broomfield.org/EmergencyAlerts.
• Sign up for important updates during an emergency through the CCOB Alert Center on the City and County of Broomfield website at Broomfield.org/Wildfire.
• Bookmark the Broomfield.org/EmergencyStatus page to have quick access when looking for the most up-to-date information during events like wildfires.
• Learn more about notifications and reliable information at Broomfield.org/Wildfire.
• Visit the Wildfire Preparedness web page within Broomfield.org/ Wildfire section to plan, prepare, and prevent before disaster strikes.
• Learn more about emergency action terms, evacuation process on the Evacuations web page within the Broomfield.org/ Emergency section.
Missed the meeting? Watch the full recording and community Q&A at Broomfield.org/WildfireTownHall.
By Bette Erickson
It’s a great time to be in Broomfield. One of many reasons is the creation and continuation of our relationship as global partners with our sister cities. Broomfield has three official sister cities: Ueda, Japan (established in 2001); Oklahoma’s Cheyenne and Arapahoe Tribes, formally established in 2025; and Lalitpur, Nepal established most recently in January 2026.
The Broomfield Sister Cities Organization (BSCO) seeks to connect globally and thrive locally, as it says in its promotional materials. And to be sure, that’s what the organization is doing.
“These connections open minds, inspire compassion, and create a sense of belonging that reaches far beyond geography,” explains BSCO’s Board of Directors Chairperson, Junko Goodwin.
Ms. Goodwin, who is fluent in both English and Japanese, has been with the Broomfield Sister Cities Organization for years and has been instrumental in its growth and success. Ueda, Japan
Since 2001, Broomfield and Ueda have shared a sister city relationship, built through student exchanges, business visits, and vibrant cultural programs. This partnership facilitates exciting community events while inspiring education, cross-cultural understanding, and lasting international friendships. Additionally, this longstanding sister city pairing encourages youth leadership programs that broaden global awareness and important language immersion opportunities. There have been dozens of reciprocal student exchanges throughout the years.
Oklahoma’s Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes
Broomfield and the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes’ relationship began in 2019, sparked by a lunch with two Arapaho elders and their grandchildren. Since that time, it has grown to include
visiting delegations, a soil exchange ceremony, basketball exhibitions, support for language and cultural camps, and more. This partnership was formally recognized with an official sister cities signing ceremony in March of last year, making Broomfield the second community in the United States to form a sister cities partnership with a sovereign Native nation. This relationship helps Native communities feel seen and valued while creating volunteer opportunities and civic engagement.
Having a sister city relationship encourages people-to-people connections, whether students, artists, families, or others. For more information about Broomfield’s sister cities and how you can become involved, visit www. broomfieldsistercities.org or email info@broomfieldsistercities.org.
Established in September 2025, with a signing ceremony in January, Lalitpur, Nepal, is Broomfield’s newest sister city. This partnership is particularly exciting not only because it’s new, but these two similarly sized (in terms of population) municipalities may seek to share best practices on things like public transportation, sustainability and climate planning, emergency management, and affordable housing strategies.
Sister city relationships outlast political leadership. Particularly in the case of Broomfield teaming with Ueda, Japan, dating back some 25-years ago. The Ueda, Japan, partnership gave our average-size municipalities a global voice. Having a sister city relationship is like giving your city its own passport, opening doors that can be difficult to unlock any other way.
“I believe sister cities are not just partnerships between places – they are relationships between people,” says Ms. Goodwin. “Strangers become friends. Cultures are not just observed but truly experienced, celebrated, and respected. They connect hearts across borders and remind us that, no matter where we come from, our hopes for our families, our children, and our future are deeply shared.”
The BSCO offers numerous opportunities for both students and adults. The next Ueda student reciprocal exchange coming to Broomfield is slated for this summer.
The BSCO’s Mission states: “We promote peace by bridging cultures, sharing experiences, and creating a community of respect, understanding, and friendship.”
If you’ve ever had questions or interest regarding a sister city relationship, contact BSCO today.
The Broomfield Sister Cities Organization, a part of Sister Cities International, is a registered 501c3 tax exempt nonprofit organization.
Bette Erickson writes about people, places and events. Contact her at bette_erickson@hotmail.com.
On Friday, April 17, 2026, the Broomfield Council on the Arts & Humanities (BCAH) invites the community to gather for its annual gala, “A Starry Night Out,” from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at The Establishment (11885 Bradburn Blvd, Westminster, CO 80031).
More than a fundraiser, this is one of those defining community evenings — the kind where neighbors reconnect, business leaders mingle with artists, and civic-minded residents show up for something bigger than themselves.
Broomfield has always balanced progress with purpose. It began with small town farmers making a visionary decision decades ago to invest in an artistic and cultural future. That commitment continues today through programs that serve more than 43,000 people annually, from art, music, and science engagement to cultural events that bring generations together.
“A Starry Night Out” celebrates that legacy with an immersive experience where art inspires and science illuminates. Throughout the evening, guests will be able to explore auctions, performances, and interactive spaces including a Creative Immersion Room, Telescope Lounge, and an art installation from Denver-based Lumonics Light & Sound Gallery. Beyond the experiences, this event taps into something deeper: the human desires to create and to contribute.
Galas are powerful because they create visible moments of alignment. When you attend, you’re not just buying a ticket; you’re signaling your belief that creativity, education, exploration, and cultural vitality matter. You’re standing alongside fellow leaders, entrepreneurs, and neighbors who are
shaping the future of Broomfield.
BCAH Executive Director Keri Dillingham put it this way: “This gala is your opportunity to actively invest in creativity for yourself, your family, your neighbors, and future generations. When you purchase a ticket, you’re making a visible statement that arts, culture, and innovation belong at the center of a thriving community. Creativity isn’t optional; it’s essential to a healthy, balanced life. And when we come together to support it, we elevate where we live, work, learn, and play.”
That spirit of shared investment is why the evening consistently draws influential community members and dedicated supporters. Major partners such as the Broomfield City Council and Horizons North Credit Union understand that supporting the arts isn’t just philanthropic — it’s civic leadership.
Whether you attend with friends, colleagues, or simply want to be part of an inspiring evening, “A Starry Night Out” offers the chance to celebrate, connect, and stand publicly for something meaningful.
Seats are limited, and this is one of those events people talk about long after the lights dim. Join us. Show up. Be part of the story. Because when creativity shines, the whole community glows.
Tickets are available at: onecau.se/starrynightout.
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On April 21, at 6:30 p.m. at the
Broomfield 2026! Is the banner name for a collaborative group of Broomfield non-profit organizations and government representatives that has formed to plan activities commemorating the historic anniversaries that are occurring in 2026:
• The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
• The 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood
• The 65th anniversary of the founding of the City of Broomfield
• The 25th anniversary of the establishment of the City and County of Broomfield
Check out upcoming activities below and join us in commemorating our national, state and local history!
Learn more and get full event details at broomfieldhistoricalsociety. org/broomfield2026-calendar/
We’ll continue to add events every month. Broomfield 2026 is sponsored by Our Broomfield Magazine.
March 14 - Celebrating Women's History Month: Frances Perkins Historical Re-enactment with Colleen Sawyer at The Broomfield Depot Museum at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
April 18 - Shep the Turnpike Dog Lookalike Contest at The Broomfield Depot Museum at 2:00 p.m.
April 21 - The Zang Story, presented by Fred Martin at the Crescent Grange at 6:30 p.m.
By Melissa Ruzicka
Homeownership comes with a long to do list, and finding the right professionals to help can sometimes feel overwhelming. From routine maintenance to major renovations, knowing who to trust is often the hardest part of starting any home project. This spring, a new local event aims to make that process simpler, more personal, and much more convenient for Broomfield residents.
Local Realtor and community connector Robbin Merta is introducing the first Broomfield Home Expo on Saturday, April 11 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn. The goal is simple. Bring a wide range of trusted home service providers together in one place so homeowners can easily explore their options in a single afternoon.
Designed to feel approachable and community-focused, the expo will feature more than 30 local vendors representing a broad spectrum of home services. Attendees can explore options ranging from arborists, concrete specialists, and duct cleaning professionals to flooring experts, landscapers, painters, plumbers, roofers, and solar providers. Additional services will include interior design, lighting, home automation, water and air filtration, window treatments, and more.
Unlike large convention center home shows that can feel crowded and impersonal, this smaller scale event is meant to encourage real conversations. Instead of navigating busy
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For many homeowners, that face to face interaction can make all the difference. Meeting professionals in person helps build trust, allows for more meaningful conversations, and gives residents the chance to ask detailed questions about timelines, costs, and project expectations. It also creates an opportunity to discover local businesses they may not have otherwise found through online searches alone.
The expo is designed to be welcoming and family friendly. Guests can enjoy free goodies, enter to win door prizes, and even earn additional prize entries by engaging with the event’s social media promotions. Admission is affordable at eight dollars in advance or ten dollars at the door, and children 17 and under attend free.
By bringing together reliable local experts under one roof, the Broomfield Home Expo aims to become a helpful resource for homeowners planning improvements, tackling repairs, or simply gathering ideas for the future. Whether preparing for a major renovation or just looking to build a list of trusted contacts, this new event offers a convenient and relaxed way to connect, learn, and feel more confident about caring for your home.
Visit www.broomfieldhomeexpo.com for more information.
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Last month, the Our Broomfield staff had the honor of gathering family, friends, key Broomfield partners, and dozens of the 2025 Our Favorites Contest Winners at Broomfield’s Chipper’s Lanes to celebrate and recognize the best businesses in Broomfield.
Each fall, Our Broomfield conducts a survey of Favorite Broomfield businesses in numerous business categories. The winners are announced in the January issue. To view the full list of winners and learn more about Our Broomfield’s Our Favorites check out the January issue https://issuu.com/ ourbroomfieldmagazine/docs/issuu_ourbroomfield_jan26
The entire team at Chipper’s was amazing and made the night so fun! Visit Chipper’s with your friends and fami-
ly and experience their superb service! And thank you to Mr. Paul Derda for serving as our host! Our Winners enjoyed a great night of food, bowling, prizes, and games!
*All photos courtesy of Tim Seibert, Flatirons Pro Media.
Mr. Broomfield, Paul Derda, and Our Broomfield owners Tina and Pat Eichner greet guests.
Plaques were given to dozens of Best of Broomfield winners.
Continued on page 34
By The City and County of Broomfield
For Colorado residents, drought is a frequent reality. The climate, while beautiful, is inherently arid and water supply is entirely dependent on snowpack in the mountains. Droughts occur regularly, as evidenced by significant events in 2002, 2012, and 2020, some of the driest years ever recorded in Colorado. The root cause is typically a shortage of snowfall. Snowpack that accumulates in the high country acts as a natural reservoir, slowly melting to feed our rivers and reservoirs throughout the warmer months. Unfortunately, 2026 is showing signs that another drought could be coming. The latest information shows snowpack is well below normal. Unseasonably warm temperatures make the problem worse by causing earlier-than-normal snowmelt and increased evaporation. This combination has prompted the City and County of Broomfield to take a proactive stance in preparation for what could be a dry summer. Broomfield’s City and County Manager has Declared a Drought Watch
down to the “Alert Center” section and look for “Water Restrictions and Drought Conditions” and select your preference of email (envelope icon) or text (phone icon) notifications for your updates.
Broomfield does not wait for a crisis to act. A robust, multistage drought response plan, found at Broomfield.org/Drought, is designed to manage water resources efficiently and ensure longterm sustainability. This plan outlines four stages of response: Drought Watch, which can be declared by staff, and Drought Conditions I, II, and III, all which require city council approval.
The Drought Watch was declared on Feb. 9 and is meant to increase awareness and encourage voluntary conservation. If dry conditions persist or worsen, the Broomfield City Council will consider a declaration of Drought Condition I during its meeting on May 12. Drought Condition I involves mandatory water use restrictions for all water customers in Broomfield. If the city council does declare Drought Condition I, you will find more details on Broomfield. org, CCOB social media, water bill inserts, postcards, and other communication methods. To receive push notifications for future drought condition changes, visit Broomfield.org/NotifyMe, scroll
The good news is Broomfield residents and businesses have already demonstrated a strong commitment to water stewardship. For example, over the last five years, Broomfield residents and businesses have replaced 219,028 square feet of turf grass with waterwise gardens, saving an estimated 8.5 million gallons of water.
What can residents do to conserve water in a drought?
Check for leaks: A single leaky faucet or running toilet can waste 30 to 100 gallons per day.
Water wisely: Water in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. Consider watering only twice a week instead of three times. Use the cycle-and-soak method. You can find watering tips at Broomfield.org/WateringTips.
Sign up for landscape benefit programs: Consider a FREE irrigation system audit, lawn replacement, or irrigation system upgrades. You can find details at Broomfield.org/SaveWater.
While droughts are concerning and require everyone to help conserve water, Broomfield is ready, thanks to drought response planning and past investments to develop a diverse water supply. If you have questions about water supply or drought response, contact waterresources@broomfield.org.
A robust, multi-stage drought response plan can be found at Broomfield.org/Drought.
“LIVING HERE HAS BEEN LIFE CHANGING. THEY HELPED ME DURING THE GAP FROM YOUTH TO ADULT AND I AM NO LONGER LIVING ON THE STREETS.” -LANCE
comprehensive cultural programming was exciting, with a highlight being the restoration of the Depot Museum.
By Bette Erickson
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.
Roberta has lived in Broomfield for 23 years. She has also lived in Berthoud, Eagle, and Gunnison, Colorado as well as Connecticut and New York state. Roberta was born and raised in Niagara Falls, NY.
Married to her college sweetheart, Paul, for 57 years, her hobbies include reading (“of course,” she explains, being a former librarian and all). Other hobbies include travel, genealogy, and local history research.
The 2013 Heart of Broomfield Award recipient is currently working with the “Broomfield 2026!” planning group to organize activities commemorating the historic anniversaries taking place in 2026: 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, 150th for Colorado statehood, 65th for the City of Broomfield, and the 25th anniversary of the formation of the City and County of Broomfield.
Q. What did you enjoy most about your job as Library Director? I most enjoyed working with a talented and dedicated staff to develop communityfocused programming such as the “Family Place Library” program in the children’s section; expanded teen programs (especially STEM-focused); and the Broomfield One Book, One Broomfield program. Also, the bringing together of the city’s arts and history divisions with the library to offer more
Q. Tell us a little about your career path. I was a School Media Specialist in West Irondequoit, NY; a Public Library Director in Eagle, CO, Glastonbury, CT, and Berthoud, CO. I was also the assistant editor of the Bicentennial publication, Colorado Bibliography published by Libraries Unlimited publishing company in Denver, CO. I have an MA in librarianship from the University of Denver.
Q. What do you enjoy during your free time? Other than the hobbies listed above, I enjoy walking our dog, listening to music and spending time with friends.
Q. What is your favorite restaurant and park in Broomfield? My favorite restaurant is my neighborhood Northside Tavern. A favorite park is the Metzger Open Space.
Q. Who is the most interesting person you’ve met in Broomfield? Ellie McKinley, Irene Roberts, and Charles Ozaki. Besides being amazingly intelligent, they all possess a quiet but deep wisdom, lively curiosity, genuine kindness, and a deep sense of community. It's hard to choose between them. Irene, a former president of the Friends of Broomfield Library, is no longer with us.
Q. What do you enjoy about leading the Broomfield Historical Society? This is my seventh year on the Historical Society Board. I enjoy learning about all the people who have made this community, their struggles and accomplishments, and the native peoples for whom this was also home.
Q. What do you find unique about Broomfield? The one thing that has always impressed me about Broomfield is the number of people who volunteer in some way to help build and sustain this community, whether in local nonprofits, informal organizations, or especially Broomfield’s Boards and Commissions. Of course, also the fabulous Open Space throughout the city. It’s wonderful to have so many outdoor places to enjoy and to have open view corridors to our mountains throughout town.
Q. What advice would you give to people living in or relocating to Broomfield?
Get a library card ! It’s the door to what’s going on in Broomfield. Then get involved in one of our community organizations.
Q. Who or what inspires you to be a better person? There isn’t a single person, but several throughout my life whose example inspired me: My 5th grade teacher and High School English teacher who both set very high standards but were also generous and kind. My grandmothers, also, who overcame amazing odds with grit, grace, and sometimes humor.
Bette Erickson writes about people, places and events. Contact her at bette_erickson@hotmail.com.
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