Redefine Your Living Experience
Let’s create a space that re ects your unique style and fosters unforgettable moments!
I cannot say enough great things about Tom and his team! Five stars, 100% positive.
Back Pain Relief!
Dr. Jeff Hogan provides the chiropractic care you need to get you WELL AND ON YOUR WAY.
Rely on him for expertise in the following:
• Preventative Care
• Sports Injuries
• Neck Pain
• Back Pain
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From a recent patient:
“I was looking for a chiropractor with a broader set of treatment skills than your average chiro, and Dr. Jeff fits the bill. He does amazing work and is the only chiropractor I will go to in the area.”
Most Major Insurance Accepted!
Dr. Jeff Hogan, Chiropractor
What makes you feel loved?
Maybe you’ve read the book The 5 Love Languages If you haven’t, here’s a hot take: People give and receive love in different ways. The following are the five love languages author Gary Chapman identifies in his book: Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, Words of Affirmation, and Physical Touch.
Just as relationships can greatly benefit when we’re intentional about understanding the love languages of people we care about, would it be crazy to apply this concept to Broomfield with five LOCAL love languages? How would that look?
Acts of Service and Quality Time fit nicely. The multitude of nonprofits calling Broomfield home would certainly feel loved through acts of service, and spending quality time with your friends and family enjoying our open spaces and other amenities would be time well spent.
And Receiving Gifts? With so many local businesses needing our support in the face of growing competition online and from neighboring communities, the gift of your patronage is greatly appreciated.
That leaves Words of Affirmation and Physical Touch.
Posting a thoughtful positive review and sharing a referral with friends when they need a local service, restaurant, or product is a great way to use Words of Affirmation to show love for our local businesses. And Physical Touch? How about getting your hands dirty and picking up trash, or volunteering to help our seniors shovel snow or grocery shopping?
The only thing I can think of that might make all of this even better is participating in these acts of local love WITH someone you love, and double the impact!
As for myself and the team at Broomfield Lifestyle, we feel loved when you read and share our publication with others. So let’s warm up what’s left of this winter season with some intentional effort to encourage each other and elevate our community!
With gratitude, your publisher,
SCHIERKOLK, PUBLISHER
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Justin Schierkolk | justin.schierkolk@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sarah Schierkolk | sarah.schierkolk@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Walker | julie@wordstellastory.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Sarah Dawn Photography sarah@sdawnphotography.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kristen Hamm, Linda Kennedy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Jacob "Solo" Sosa
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Thread of
Sips & Smiles
Tiny World Changers
Bal
I’m Beth Gustin, a Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist, and Certified Advanced Grief Counselor. My service dog (Manolo) and I help people cope in the following areas: Bereavement and Grief, Pet Loss, and Counseling for Trauma.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Over 100 musicians performed at School of Rock’s End of Season shows Dec. 14-15 at The Rickhouse, featuring students age 9-adult. Photography by Jacob “Solo” Sosa @soloshotphoto
YOUR BUSINESS, YOUR WAY.
IMAGE Studios was designed for small business professionals like you, making it possible to have your own business space, be your own boss, without the hassles of building, overhead, and added expenses. Our concept is simple: We provide an incredible space for you and your clients, offer business support, and training, give you 24/7 access, and you create the business space of your dreams to THRIVE. Private suites available for many different businesses - inquire to find out more!
Warrior Challenge Arena Celebrates 25 Years!
Join the celebration as Warrior Challenge Arena marks 25 incredible years of fun and fitness! To thank their community, they’re offering $25 OFF the first month of Ninja Classes for kids ages 4–14 all year long. Help your young warriors build strength, confidence, and agility in a thrilling environment. Don’t miss out on this special anniversary offer! Visit thewarriorarena.com to learn more and sign up today!
The Broomfield Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes the following new members. Please consider these businesses first when the need arises! Adam Hill, Professional EOS Implementer; Balance and Bloom Functional Medicine; Broomfield Housing Alliance; Broomfield STEM; CLARITY Financial; Collective Property Partners; Cool As a Cucumber; Daring Girls; Giving Home Health Care; HCA HealthONE Mile High OB/GYN and Midwifery; NoCo Massage Therapy; and Peacock Financial. For a full list of local businesses, head to broomfieldchamber.com.
Local Artist Spotlight, Linden Kirby
Local artist Linden Kirby recently showcased 20 original oil paintings at Broomfield’s Brunner Farmhouse, including his award-winning piece Green Fields, a serene view of the Brunner Farmhouse across its open field. Linden’s work often draws inspiration from nature and the beauty of God’s creation, brought to life with inventive techniques and tools. To explore more of his art or inquire about workshops, visit ArtByLinden.com. Follow his journey and discover new pieces that tell heartfelt stories.
A THREAD OF WARMTH
ARTICLE
BY LINDA KENNEDY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH DAWN PHOTOGRAPHY
THE WOMEN’S GATHERING WEAVE COMMUNITY AND COMPASSION THROUGH EVERY STITCH
On any given Thursday afternoon, in a quiet room at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, laughter and the soft clicking of knitting needles fill the air. A circle of women, some with silver hair and others still finding their footing in retirement, come together. Their hands are rarely still, moving methodically through skeins of donated yarn to create something more than hats, scarves, or blankets. They are weaving purpose and community into every stitch.
It all began in 2009 when Dotti Moyer looked around her life and realized many women like her—mothers whose children were grown, retirees searching for meaningful ways to fill their days— needed more. They needed a place to belong, a reason to gather, and a way to give back. With just five women and a shared love of crafting, The Women’s Gathering was born.
Dotti wasn’t just creating a group; she was building a bridge between those who had something to give and those who desperately needed it. Broomfield may not show its struggles outwardly, but they exist. Beneath the surface of a seemingly prosperous community are families struggling to make ends meet, seniors needing warmth and care, and children who face winters without the basics.
The Women’s Gathering quickly became more than a knitting club. Their creations found homes with local organizations like FISH, a food bank where hats are available for the taking, and My Choice Pregnancy Center, where newborns receive lovingly crafted blankets. They made adult aprons for seniors and chemo caps for cancer patients. For those living out of their cars, The Refuge offers car blankets made from fleece. Everywhere there was a need, The Women’s Gathering rose to meet it.
By 2024, the group had grown to over 50 women, some attending regularly and others crafting at home and dropping off their donations. Together, they contributed over 4,000 items that
CONTINUED >
L-R: Dotti Moyer, Linda Kennedy, Cathy Erichsen
year alone, spreading warmth not only across Broomfield but and far beyond.
Early on, the group’s reach extended to the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, one of the largest and poorest reservations in the U.S. Winters there are brutal, and poverty is widespread, with nearly half the population living below the poverty line. Dotti and her group began sending boxes of hats, mittens, shawls, and blankets to two communities on the reservation—Kyle and Wanblee. Twice a year, these handmade gifts, along with Christmas bags filled with essentials like lotion and denture cream for elders, make their way to the reservation.
But the deliveries are about more than just items. Over the years, Dotti and other members of The Women’s Gathering have made the journey to Pine Ridge, building relationships with the people they serve. On one such trip this past fall, member Diane Tappy and her sister drove their father’s SUV, packed to the brim with handmade goods and over-the-counter medical supplies.
As the white vehicle pulled up to a warehouse in Wanblee, a teenage boy and girl approached, their faces guarded. Diane and her sister greeted them warmly, but it wasn’t until the car doors opened and the contents were revealed—bags upon bags of lovingly made hats, scarves, and supplies—that their skepticism melted into joy. “Thank you!” the boy exclaimed as he carried a box of medical supplies inside. Soon, Diane and her sister were being given a tour of the modest space where items are stored for residents to “shop.” Everything was free, and while the shelves weren’t overflowing, each new delivery made a tangible difference.
“For over 13 years, I have always been able to call Dotti from The Women’s Gathering to support the many programs we have on the reservation,” says Rose Fraser, Director of the Oyata Teca Project in Kyle. “Whether it is knitted slipper socks for the elderly, school-colored scarves for the high school, or gardening tools for families, she finds the resources to get it to us.”
Dotti’s vision has continued to evolve. Recognizing the importance of sustainable support, she founded Tools For Growth, a program that provides seeds, irrigation equipment, and tools to help 90 families grow vegetables on 1.5 acres of land. “My belief is to support people with resources that they can utilize to care for themselves,” she explains.
The work of The Women’s Gathering doesn’t end with their yarn and needles. They’ve made wool hats for veterans in PTSD programs and continue to create items for homeless shelters and other vulnerable populations. Every bit of yarn and fleece they use is donated by community members, and every stitch carries a message of love and hope.
This small but mighty group of women reminds us all that giving isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about showing up, week after week, and creating something beautiful with your hands and your heart. In the process, they’ve not only stitched together warmth for those in need but woven a stronger, more compassionate community for us all.
If you’d like to learn more about The Women’s Gathering, join their efforts, or donate supplies, you can reach Linda Kennedy at lkenn1410@comcast.net. Every contribution helps keep this remarkable thread of kindness going strong.
“I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN ABLE TO CALL DOTTI FROM THE WOMEN’S GATHERING TO SUPPORT THE MANY PROGRAMS WE HAVE ON THE RESERVATION.”
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ELECTRICAL EXPERTS AT YOUR SERVICE
Tired of that old Chandelier? We do lighting upgrades or repairs!! New Appliances or Tools?
Handle the load with an electric panel upgrade! New Car? We install EV chargers! Time to Update? We love remodels! Quality work, quick response,
SIPS & SMILES
ARTICLE BY SARAH SCHIERKOLK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
SARAH DAWN PHOTOGRAPHY
SWEET TIPS FOR VALENTINES DAY SMILES BY DR. NICHOLSON AT THE SMILE SUITE
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in wine and sweets, but your teeth might not feel the same romance. According to Dr. Nicholson of The Smile Suite, protecting your smile is all about timing and TLC. “Enjoy your wine and candy in one sitting to avoid them from lingering for too long on your teeth,” she advises. Afterward, give your mouth some love with a floss, Waterpik, and electric toothbrush routine just before bed. And remember, spit, don’t rinse—this allows the toothpaste’s active ingredients to work their magic overnight, giving you a fresh, healthy smile while you sleep!
Now, let’s ditch the guilt and have some fun! Dr. Nicholson’s favorite wine and candy pairings are sure to satisfy. The possibilities are endless! So sip, smile, and savor every moment.
Dr. Nicholson of The Smile Suite
WHISPERING ANGEL & TWIZZLERS
Whispering Angel’s delicate notes of white flowers, strawberries, watermelon, and mixed berries complement Twizzlers’ sweetness, creating a playful contrast between the wine’s light, fruity profile and the candy’s bold, chewy texture.
Tip: Sticky candies cling to teeth longer, making them harder to remove. Brush or floss promptly to minimize their impact and reduce the risk of lingering effects on your teeth.
CABERNET SAUVIGNON & SNICKERS
Cabernet Sauvignon’s dark fruit flavors of blackberry and plum, along with its oak spice, balance the sweetness of the caramel and complement the nutty richness of the Snickers.
Tip: Use whitening toothpaste or over-thecounter strips to tackle extrinsic stains from wine and sweets. For a more effective solution, consider Dr. Nicholson’s in-office whitening treatments to restore your smile’s brightness.
03
PINOT NOIR & REESE’S
PROSECCO & NERDS CLUSTERS
Prosecco can pair well with Nerds Gummy Clusters because the bubbly wine’s slight sweetness and crispness can cut through the candy’s tartness and sugary sweetness, creating a balanced and refreshing combination.
Tip: Opt for candies made with xylitol, which is anti-cariogenic and fights cavity-causing bacteria. Sugar alcohol-based candies are also tooth-friendly but may be tougher on your stomach.
Pinot Noir is a great wine to pair with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups because the wine’s earthy flavors complement the peanut butter’s savory taste and the milk chocolate’s light sweetness. For best results, serve the Pinot Noir at a cooler temperature, around 55–60°F, to highlight its berry and spice flavors
Tip: Red wine can cause surface stains on teeth. To prevent this, rinse with water after enjoying dark wines to wash away pigments and reduce the risk of staining.
04
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION?
ARTICLE BY KRISTEN HAMM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH DAWN PHOTOGRAPHY
BAL SWAN ALUMNA URSA FITZWILLIAM TAKES HER TOOLS AND INCLUSIVE OUTLOOK WITH HER AND UNITES WITH LIKE-MINDED PALS TO CHANGE THE WORLD, ONE HELPING HAND AT A TIME.
TINY WORLD CHANGERS
“Does anyone have peanut allergies?” asks the brown-eyed seven-year-old before she pulls out her after-school snack. Her two classmates, who have joined us in a generous teacher’s classroom, shake their heads. As a mom of three elementary-aged children, I
Ursa, Vivian, Charlie and Hadley possess a character quality lacking in many adults: empathy. These seven and eight-year-old girls give up their recess time weekly to mobilize the “Help Squad.” Initiated last year by classmate Vivian, the Help Squad
“THESE YOUNG LADIES ARE REMARKABLY UNIQUE TINY WORLD CHANGERS.”
am struck by the thoughtfulness and consideration Ursa Fitzwilliam displayed by that simple question. I am fairly certain my children would not have considered the other kids at the table before hungrily digging into their long-awaited sustenance. Not that my munchkins aren’t kind and considerate people, but when their own needs are urgent, they can be singularly-minded. The three second-grade girls sitting around the tiny table aren’t superhuman either. They get giddy with the idea they might be famous after this article is printed in our local publication. When prompted to share what they want to be when they grow up, the girls don’t mention Red Cross work or the Peace Corp. Instead, they’d like to be acclaimed singers like Taylor Swift. Yet in one incredibly significant way, these young ladies are remarkably unique tiny world changers.
exists to be a positive force at school. “If someone gets hurt, we try to help them feel better or get a teacher for them. If somebody doesn’t have anyone to play with and is sitting on the yellow Buddy Bench, we invite them to play,” the girls explain. That’s exactly how the Help Squad began. During the first week of first grade, Ursa wandered sad and alone on the playground during recess. She was new at school and only knew one other child from her Pre-K and kindergarten years at Bal Swan Children’s Center. Vivian and Charlie felt bad for her and talked about it with Vivian’s mom, Annie Oakes, after school. Annie suggested starting a club that helps people, and the idea sprang to life. Ursa immediately joined when invited and quickly found her place with this little group of like-minded girls. Now the Help Squad is their favorite part of recess.
CONTINUED >
As is true of most organizations, however, the Help Squad faced its share of challenges that first year. After appointing a president, VP, treasurer and secretary, the girls printed business cards to spread the word. Initial interest ran high. Unfortunately, daily meetings at recess competed with playtime, and the less-invested children eventually defected. “The boys just wanted to play football,” laments Hadley. “People started quitting,” adds Charlie. “But we trimmed the club down. And now there are some really nice people in it!” Ursa explains, “We like to keep it small, so there’s no arguing.”
When asked about who they think needs the most help at school, Ursa chimed in first, sharing, “Special needs kids.” Charlie immediately agreed, adding, “Sometimes they get bullied because they’re different.” Hadley topped off the noteworthy display of empathy and inclusivity, elaborating, “Different is good, so we’re not all the same.” Growing up in a world more polarized than ever by our differences, these second-grade girls have a wealth of experience and deepseated convictions we adults would do well to emulate.
“THE
HELP SQUAD EXISTS TO BE A POSITIVE FORCE AT SCHOOL.”
Ursa’s parents attribute much of her care and concern for people to Ursa’s years at Bal Swan Children’s Center. “Bal Swan fosters empathy for those who are different from you and equips kids early on with a set of tools to include others,” reflects Stephanie Fitzwilliam, Ursa’s mom. The social-emotionally focused, inclusive early learning center enrolls both neurotypical and neurodiverse students. Incredible resources, including physical and occupational therapists, round out an excellent staff who give their all to help children grow and learn together. Bal Swan also boasts a warm-water therapy pool inside the school. The excellent staff work as an integrated team to give their students unparalleled support. Right here in Broomfield, our preschoolers and kindergartners receive a world-renowned education in social and emotional skills, as well as stand-out academics. They take these tools when they graduate and better our community and the world at large.
-Mia Reinke
“URSA’S CLUB IS AN EMBODIMENT OF OUR VISION OF ‘AN INCLUSIVE WORLD OF ACCEPTANCE AND RESPECT’.”
“Ursa’s club is an embodiment of our vision of ‘an inclusive world of acceptance and respect’,” Debbie Kunz, director of Bal Swan, proudly states. Looking outside ourselves and having empathy for someone else who might face different challenges than we do not only improves our world but also improves our well-being. Ursa sums it up well, beaming, “If we help people, we feel good, and the people we help feel good!”
One wonderful way to start the year on a high note is by attending the Bal Swan Ball on March 1st. This year’s theme, “Springtime in Paris,” promises an enchanting evening filled with delicious cuisine, heartwarming stories and meaningful impact. By joining this celebration, you’ll be supporting Bal Swan’s mission to keep tuition affordable and maintain exceptional teacher-to-student ratios, ensuring the next generation of young learners has the tools to thrive. Together, we can help shape the tiny world-changers of tomorrow.
“My
WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS
Planks & Paint Toddler
Time: Story Time & Crafting
Planks & Paint - 12716 Lowell Blvd, Broomfield, CO 80020
Join us for Toddler Time, now available Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11 AM and 1 PM! Each 45-minute session features a delightful story and a corresponding craft, including a keepsake wooden project your little maker will treasure. Open to all ages (younger children may need extra supervision), space is limited to ensure a fun, relaxed experience. Sign up early to secure your spot and spark your child’s creativity!
FEBRUARY 3RD, 14TH, 17TH, 18TH, 19TH, 20TH AND 21ST Ninja Camps at Warrior Challenge Arena
Warrior Challenge Arena - 3400 Industrial Ln, Broomfield, CO 80020
Camps are a fantastic way to experience the excitement before committing to classes! Join us for a day packed with Team and Personal Challenges, Competition Games, and High-Flying Stunts—all tailored to the skills of the group and facilitated by our friendly staff. When school is out, Warrior Challenge Arena is the place to be! Visit warriorchallengearena.com for more details.
FEBRUARY 4TH
2025 Broomfield Chamber Annual Meeting
Elevations Credit Union - 1 Environmental Way, Broomfield, CO 80021 | 7:30 AM
Join us February 4, 2025, for a special event featuring Mayor Guyleen Castriotta, reflecting on Broomfield’s 2024 achievements and future vision, followed by an inspiring keynote on economic
development by CU Boulder’s Richard L. Wobbekind. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from two dynamic leaders shaping Broomfield’s growth and success!
MARCH 1ST
61st Annual Bal Swan Ball
Omni Interlocken Hotel & Resort
- 500 Interlocken Boulevard, Broomfield CO 80021 | 5:00 PM
Experience the enchantment of “Spring in Paris” at the 61st Annual Bal Swan Ball. Enjoy an elegant evening of dinner, live music, dancing, and exciting auctions, all while supporting a great cause. Indulge in the magic and romance of Paris in springtime. Book a special event night room rate by February 1st to complete the experience!
MARCH 9TH
You are invited to School of Rock’s Mid-Season Concert
Globe Hall - 4483 Logan St, Denver, CO 80216 | 12:00 PM
Featuring musicians age 8-18, School of Rock Broomfield students perform their “Mid-Season” set lists live at Globe Hall. Seven bands take the stage including Southern Rock, Hip Hop Pioneers, Evolution of Metal, the music of Weezer, and much more! Free Admission. Get ready to rock!
(SPRING BREAK CAMPS) MARCH 17
- APRIL 4; (SUMMER CAMPS) JUNE, JULY & AUGUST 2025
Valhallan Esport Trying Spring Break and Summer Camps are OPEN!
Valhallan Esport Training - 3800 W 144th Ave, Broomfield, CO 80023
EARLY BIRD PRICING IS HAPPENING NOW! At Valhallan Camps, campers will engage in interactive projects, enhance children’s gaming experience, learn new skills, and enjoy collaborative challenges, all while having fun and making new friends. Our dedicated instruction team of collegiate-level esports athletes ensure a safe and enriching experience, empowering children to explore their interests and unleash their potential.
Empowering Broomfield Area Businesses, Enhancing Our Community
The Chamber fosters an environment where local businesses connect, collaborate, and thrive through networking events, resources, and advocacy.
What This Means for You
A thriving local business community supports job creation and brings unique products and services to YOU. This also helps local schools, public spaces, and essential services that enhance daily life.
What
Businesses
are in the Chamber?
Over 500 current members rely on the support of local residents like you!
*Some restrictions may apply. For buyback we purchase back the old equipment.
Ready to upgrade your home’s comfort? For a limited time, when you purchase a full HVAC system, you’ll receive a FREE water heater!
Why Choose Our HVAC System?
• Energy-efficient for lower utility bills
• Expert installation by certified professionals
• Improved air quality and consistent comfort
Why a New Water Heater?
• Enjoy reliable hot water at no extra cost
• Modern, energy-efficient technology
• Enhance your home’s value and efficiency
Don’t miss out — This offer is only available for a short time! Call now with promo code #Water24 to schedule your free consultation and upgrade your home’s heating, cooling, and hot water systems today! (Some restrictions apply)
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Building the Perfect Bouquet
Valentine’s Day can be celebrated in many ways. Some people choose to go out for dinner and a movie, others hire a private chef for a romantic meal at home, some buy chocolates and find a fun activity in town, and some couples go out of town for an exciting getaway! One Valentine’s Day staple is giving a bouquet of flowers to someone special. Flowers are the gift that say I love you and can be given to your spouse, children, and mom. As a child, my father always got me roses on Valentine’s Day until I met my husband and he took over the tradition. A bouquet of flowers can say many things as each flower has a different meaning. If you’re wanting to say something special to the ones you love this Valentine’s Day, take a look at our list of three popular flowers, what they mean, and what flowers to pair them with.
Roses
LOVE & ROMANCE
Roses are by far the most popular flower to give on Valentine’s Day. They are beautiful by themselves or you can add Baby’s Breath to enhance the bouquet. These two make a romantic bouquet and are the perfect flowers to give to someone special.
Lilies
PURITY & FERTILITY
Lilies come in a variety of colors and are eye-catching! For a softer looking bouquet, pair your lilies with carnations. These two combined are fun and heartwarming and are a great gift for anyone.
Tulips
PERFECT FOR DEEP LOVE
A bouquet of tulips will brighten any space! Adding some Ranunculus, also known as buttercup, will complement the tulips wonderfully. These flowers have a refreshing look that will decorate any home beautifully in a crystal vase.
61st Annual
Bal Swan Ball Spring in Paris
Saturday, March 1st, 2025 | 5pm–12am
Omni Interlocken Broomfield
Scan to Get Tickets Now!
Featuring Grammy-nominated Keynote Speaker
Clinton Sparks
Presented by: Valahallan eSports Training
