Tracy Kovalench
Northern News Services

NNSL (Jun 12/98) - Strong isn't her official last name anymore, but Barb Bromley shows no sign that she won't stop living up to it.

Born Barbara Strong, Bromley moved to Yellowknife a newlywed pioneer 50 years ago. Since then, she has touched the lives of many. Anyone trying to find a parking space at the Baker Centre Wednesday evening would have to agree.

There, family and friends from around Canada gathered to honor Bromley's golden anniversary in Yellowknife.

Gary Avery hosted the evening and compared his mother-in-law to Christopher Columbus with only one exception: "she's still looking for new worlds."

Tears escaped through the corners of Bromley's eyes as her children and grandchildren spoke of fond memories and her past accomplishments.

Throughout her life, she has been honored with the Canadian Volunteer Award, Queen's Jubilee Medal and the Commissioner's Award for Public Health. The mother of four and grandmother of seven also lays maternal claim to Raven Mad Daze, the Yellowknife Association of Concerned Citizens for Seniors and most recently, Lunch with a Bunch.

Bromley has travelled to Japan, Korea, Israel and New Zealand. At home, she's also seeking new landscapes in painting and sign language.

A remarkable woman with a story to tell, Bromley will be featured in Monday's News/North.