Betty Cormane
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Betty immigrated to the U.S. in 1962 with her parents and sister. From one large city to another, New York, it was still a rough transition, not knowing the language and starting school where the only other person who spoke Spanish was her sister, who was in another grade. This experience motivated her first career, that of a bilingual teacher. A graduate of Brooklyn College at the City University of New York she became a middle school bilingual teacher in Brooklyn, New York.
When her first son, David, was born, Betty took a leave and decided to move to Colorado, having visited many times and fallen in love with the Rocky Mountains. Once settled in Boulder, she became active in school related committees such as MEAC (Multi-Ethnic Action Committee) in order to assess and contribute to the shape of education for multicultural children in the area. Betty became a Realtor and practiced for 5 years until her youngest son Evan was born.
When she was contacted by a friend in 1994 and asked to interpret for some people looking for a restaurant space but who did not speak much English, Betty met Ernesto Alvarez and the rest is history. They opened Casa Alvarez in October and were well on their way to the roller coaster ride that is the restaurant business. With much love for her customers, many who have become friends; and staff, some who have 10 or more years employed with Casa Alvarez; Betty and Ernesto have grown the business to two locations. They also package and sell their award winning chilies and sauces and have helped many community groups.
Betty is a Board Member at the Boulder Chamber of Commerce, loves to hike and bike the local trails and to hit a few tennis balls. She also likes to squeeze in a trip to Mexico occasionally so she can try to keep up with Ernesto.
To learn about more about Boulder's 'New Pioneers', check out our previous Award Winners page.
