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FIRST CLASS SERVICE
Jeff Snyder and Aimee Ferris are here to provide personalized automotive guidance throughout the entire process to save you time and eliminate stress. Stop getting the runaround at dealerships where you have to deal with salespeople, managers, and the finance office. Work with one auto broker who has your best interests at heart and can get you almost any vehicle.
ANY NEW OR USED CAR
At Centennial, you have a variety of new and used vehicles at your fingertips. Whether you’re looking for your first car, your dream car, or a fleet of trucks, Jeff and Aimee can help! Once you’ve found your perfect car, they’ll help you decide if leasing or purchasing is best for you. Our unbiased approach eliminates pressure and makes getting a car enjoyable!
Thank you. Yes, Simply Thank you.
This November, we turn our focus to thankfulness. As the year begins to wind down, it’s natural to reflect on the many blessings in our lives. While I believe gratitude should be a daily practice, this month offers a special opportunity to make a conscious expression of it. It’s a time to spend with those you love and to give back in meaningful ways.
Ambition, competition, and reaching goals are all important, but sometimes we need to pause. We mustn’t forget the importance of being present, enjoying the journey, and appreciating those who have helped us along the way. If we constantly look outside of ourselves—at possessions or titles—for fulfillment, we may miss out on what truly matters. Contentment comes from within, from being true to who we were meant to be.
So, thank you. Yes, simply thank you. To all of my readers, partners, and supporters—you are the heart of Centennial City Lifestyle. I am especially grateful for my new Publication Director, Danielle VonFeldt. Having someone on the team who can inspire, collaborate, and elevate the vision of this magazine is an absolute blessing. She has an eye for Design and couldn't be more happy to have her on my team!
This November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratitude, and giving back. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support incredible organizations and make Centennial the vibrant place it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners, whose support helps bring this magazine to your doorstep each month. They are part of our mission to share inspiring stories and good news with you.
As the holiday season approaches and we prepare to gather with loved ones, let’s take a moment to reflect on what truly makes life meaningful. In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, let’s pause, be present, and appreciate the blessings all around us.
Wishing you a season filled with gratitude and joy.
Chat soon,
MEGAN DE LA ROSA , PUBLISHER
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Megan De La Rosa | megan.delarosa@citylifestyle.com
MAM photography, Antonette Jemelka, Noelle Williams Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Centennial City Lifestyle's Launch Party 1: Our Auto brokers, Jeff Snyder and Aimee Ferris, from @CentennialLeasingAndSales 2: @infamousphysique's Michelle Johnson with her fiancé Coach Carl @denvernuggets 3: Huge Thank you to @PittiParties! They helped Decorate the entire Launch Party! 4: Publisher Megan with Stephanie Fugazzi @stephanie.fugazzi_hair, friends and Partners! 5: @savorysnackables Julie Wismann impressed guest with delicious and timeless charcuterie! Thank you! 6: @befabdenver Beautiful Face and Body Wellness' Olga Afonin and Nicole Hlava 7: Publisher Megan and Her Biggest Supporters! Photography by MAM photography
Welcome Paragon Partners New Owners
We’re excited to introduce Shane Aidala and Jim Carr as the new owners of Paragon Partners. With their shared commitment to quality, accountability, and excellence, they continue the legacy of making Paragon Partners a trusted name in the industry. Their diverse backgrounds and passion ensure that every project receives the utmost care and attention to detail. Welcome aboard!
Scan to read more
After Loss Advisors Offers Additional Services!
After Loss Advisors is proud to introduce memory and story organization through Artifcts! As an official “Artipro,” they help clients preserve meaningful stories while decluttering sentimental items. Organize your life’s treasures and pass down important memories to future generations. Scan the code to learn more about their newest service!
Photography by @AfterlossAdvisors
HOLIDAY HOME MAKEOVER
EXPERT PAINTING TIPS FOR A FESTIVE REFRESH WITH PRISTINE MOUNTAIN PAINTING
The holiday season is approaching and many of us will be welcoming loved ones into our homes. A fresh coat of paint is a minimal-effort yet impactful way to transform any space, just in time for holiday entertaining. Chris Straz, owner of Pristine Mountain Painting shares their expert tips here:
1
PERFECTLY STRAIGHT LINES
For a crisp line on any surface, clear caulking is your secret weapon. Tape off where you are making your line. Apply clear caulk along the tape seam, smoothing it in with your finger. Wipe the excess with a damp cloth. Paint as usual and remove the tape.
2
FLAT FINISH PAINT ON CEILINGS
Always use a flat finish on ceilings unless it's a small bathroom with a strong exhaust fan. Flat paint will not reflect light which can enhance imperfections.
3
PRIME YOUR TOOLS
“Prime” your brush or roller by dampening it with water. Spin out the excess before dipping into paint. This helps your tools pick up more paint, resulting in smoother application and better coverage.
4
PAIR BRUSHES WITH MINI ROLLERS
The use of plants and flowers in a room can be a great way to add color the natural way, and keeping plants in your home also has many health benefits too.
5
FLAT AND MATTE FINISHES
Flat or matte finishes are perfect for concealing surface imperfections. Investing in a premium flat or matte paint ensures that your walls will not only look great but will also be easy to clean.
Still not feeling confident in your home renovation skills? The pros at Pristine Mountain Painting are available to help! Call or text Chris Straz at 720-9991852 or visit www.pristinemountainpainting.com for an estimate.
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SERVING HOPE
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ARTICLE BY VALERIE BIANCULLI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACEFULL CAFE
Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Littleton, Colorado, GraceFull Café is more than just a place to grab a meal. This mint candy-colored establishment has become a community hub, where people from all walks of life come together to eat, share stories, and support one another. Aside from this, the one
Gratitude
Connection at GraceFull Cafe
“GraceFull Café’s impact is a daily reminder of how small acts of kindness can spark significant change.”
thing that makes GraceFull truly special is its mission: to ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can enjoy a nutritious meal. This spirit of giving and inclusion has made GraceFull a cornerstone of gratitude for the Littleton Community.
At its core, GraceFull Café operates under a “pay what you can” model, ensuring that no one leaves hungry. For those in need, meals are provided free of charge through their “Grace in Action” program, funded by donations and paying customers who believe in the café’s mission. This approach not only tackles food insecurity but also brings people together, reinforcing a deep sense of community and shared responsibility. GraceFull’s unique way of blending food service with social good has earned them a special place in the hearts of many.
The inspiration behind GraceFull Café stems from owners Heather and Troy Greenwood, who wanted to create a space where people could feel a sense of belonging. After spending a year volunteering in Uganda, Heather was moved by the idea of how food brings people together across different cultures and circumstances. Upon returning home, the Greenwoods set out to establish a place where meals weren’t only sustenance but also an opportunity to connect with others. The GraceFull Foundation, a nonprofit arm of the café, was born to ensure that the café’s mission would be sustainable for years to come. Heather’s vision was to create an environment that felt like home, where people could all sit at the same table regardless of age, race, background or situation. This mission has resonated deeply with the CONTINUED >
During the Thanksgiving season, GraceFull Café takes on an even greater importance.
Littleton community, with many patrons and volunteers expressing gratitude not only for the food but for the welcoming and non-judgmental atmosphere that the café provides.
One regular customer, who found herself in a challenging financial situation, shared, “I don’t feel ashamed coming here. GraceFull isn’t just about giving a meal. It’s about reminding me that I’m still a part of this community.” It’s moments like this that emphasize why Littleton is grateful for GraceFull café—it’s truly a safe space for everyone.
For many, gratitude flows both ways at GraceFull. The café thrives not only because of its giving spirit but also because of the overwhelming support it receives from the community. Paying customers will frequently leave additional contributions to support meals for others, creating a cycle of giving back that enriches everyone. Volunteers often describe how much they gain from serving at GraceFull, feeling a sense of purpose and fulfillment knowing they’re making a tangible difference in someone’s day.
The café also organizes a monthly Community Breakfast, where people come together to share a meal and a conversation further strengthening the ties that bind the Littleton community.
During the Thanksgiving season, GraceFull Café takes on an even greater importance. For many in the community, it’s a place to celebrate the holiday not with extravagant feasts but with meaningful
“Heather’s vision was to create an environment that felt like home, where people could all sit at the same table regardless of age, race, background or situation.”
connection. Fully embracing this period of giving thanks. It’s a time of year where the community really shows up for one another. This impact goes beyond food. The relationships it fosters and the sense of belonging it creates have helped countless people facing tough circumstances. For some, it has even been a stepping stone towards gaining stability in their lives.
www.GracefullCafe.com
@gracefull_cafe
The café’s reach also extends through its partnerships with other local non-profits, further demonstrating its commitment to addressing challenges like homelessness, food insecurity and mental health struggles. GraceFull’s efforts
in collaboration with these organizations help provide access to critical services for those who need them most.
At a time when food insecurity and isolation are growing concerns, it is no wonder the Littleton community is immensely grateful for GraceFull Café. Along with a full belly, it fosters a culture of inclusivity, compassion and gratitude that ripples through the area. GraceFull Café’s impact is a daily reminder of how small acts of kindness can spark significant change. To learn more about this community treasure you can visit them in person at 5610 S. Curtice St or online at gracefullcafe.com
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guardians with paws: sros and their k-9
HOW SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS AND THEIR K-9 PARTNERS KEEP OUR KIDS SAFE AND SUPPORTED
Deputy Gray
In the hallways of Colorado’s Littleton, Cherry Creek, Byers, and Deer Trail schools, School Resource Officers (SROs) and their K-9 partners aren’t just keeping students safe – they’re also tending to their mental health, offering another layer of comfort and support.
But what are SROs? In short, they’re law enforcement officers who work in schools to keep your kids and their teachers protected and secure, alongside their K-9 companions who are dual-trained in bomb-sniffing, therapy, and even tracking lost students down to their last step.
Deputy Gray, a passionate advocate for the program, explains, “Our mission is to keep kids safe, support their mental health positively, and find lost students or children who have wandered off.”
The dogs, which include Rex, Riley, Otis, Bear, and Zeke, are trained to not only detect explosives, but also serve as therapy dogs, comforting students and calming special needs children when duty calls. This dual purpose – and how the program bridges the gap between law enforcement and our youth – is what makes the program so special, according to Gray.
CONTINUED >
This is subtle, but impactful. When most students see an officer on campus, it’s easy to assume that something is wrong. That an emergency is afoot. But the SRO x K-9 program shifts that paradigm, instead giving students peace of mind when they see Deputy Gray and Rex strolling around campus.
Training for these K-9 heroes begins at just eight weeks old. It lasts about a year and a half, and includes basic and advanced obedience, scent detection, and therapy dog certification. “We train them through repetition and patterning,” says Gray. “For instance, if a student is upset, the dog is conditioned to sit next to them, providing comfort.” The dogs’ ability to detect hormonal changes when a student is upset is particularly remarkable, as well as their tracking capabilities if a student goes off campus or runs away.
Deputy Gray is proud to be part of the first program in Colorado to have dual-certified dogs for both scent work and therapy. “We’re starting to see more therapy dogs working with SROs, and it’s spreading to other agencies,” he notes. There are currently five dogs servicing four school districts, with other agencies taking notice.
As we celebrate the Thankful Issue, it’s clear that these guardians with paws are making a stark difference in the lives of students, providing safety, support, and a whole lot of love. If your child is in a Littleton, Cherry Creek, Byers, or Deer Trail school, your support is key. The program hosts an annual 5K trail run and walk fundraiser, which has already taken place this year and is one of their main awareness-raising efforts. You can visit rexrun.com to learn more.
celebrating
WILD HEARTS MOVEMENT LIFE COACH KAILA BAYES SHARES THREE TIPS TO THRIVE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOELLE WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY
1.
SET BOUNDARIES
The holidays tend to be high pressure, so it’s important to ask, how are we committing to ourselves and are we allowing ourselves time throughout the day to connect? If you feel like you have too much on your plate, offering clear boundaries helps others understand you better and helps them support you in a different capacity.
2. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
Take time to pause and try a box breath (exercise): inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for four counts. Continue the cycle for 90 seconds. When you take time to pause, it gives you space to come back into the present moment to then respond from a more regulated space rather than just reacting in real-time.
3. BE MINDFUL OF YOUR ENVIRONMENT
Our environment can directly impact how we feel; feelings drive behaviors and behaviors drive results. If you notice a sense of agitation or frustration, take note of what has changed in the environment and ask what is needed to feel whatever it is you desire. For more information, visit www.WildHeartsMovement.com
DID YOU KNOW?
Veterans are five times more likely to experience major depression (MDD) than civilians? Approximately 3 in 10 veterans with TBI have depression.
TRICARE PRIME
If you have TRICARE
Prime you will need a referral*. Our Veteran Care Coordinator will walk you through the steps. *referral is for active duty only.
TRICARE RESERVE & SELECT
If your coverage is TRICARE Reserve or Select, and you are suffering from depression, you do not need a referral. All you need to do is contact our Veteran Care Coordinator, and she will get all your questions answered.
Our clinic is veteran owned and operated
NOVEMBER 2024
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 8TH
Grandmother’s House Festival
Tagawa Gardens, 7711 S Parker Rd., Centennial | 9:30 AM
Visit with your favorite artisans and get your holiday shopping done! Fine art, handmade treasures, holiday decor & gifts, take-home foods, clothing, and more. Friday, November 8th & Saturday, November 9th - 9:30 a.m.4:00 p.m. Sunday, November 10th9:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. $6.00 entry, good for all three days. Kids 12 and under are FREE. Veterans are always FREE.
NOVEMBER 9TH
Maggiano’s Denver Tech Center Kid’s Cooking Class
Maggiano’s DTC, 7401 S Clinton St., Englewood | 10:00 AM
Join us for a fun, hands-on Kid’s Cooking Class Experience! Our Chef will guide your little one in creating a culinary masterpiece. During the event, your little Chef will also enjoy a Maggiano’s breakfast buffet. $35 a ticket - Recommended for Ages 4-10 Adult supervision is required, Adults should purchase a ticket to enjoy the buffet. Register at https://rebrand.ly/xv25fn0
NOVEMBER 10TH
Centennial Pop-Up Wine
Tasting with Whitewater Hill Vineyards
7173 S Havana Street, Centennial, CO, 80112 | 2:00 PM
Whitewater Hill Vineyards brings a taste of the Grand Valley to you! A popup tasting room where people can taste, purchase, and enjoy our wines.
NOVEMBER 16TH
Wild Turkeys of South Platte Park
South Platte Park, 3000 W. Carson Dr., Littleton | 10:00 AM
Go on a search for wild turkeys living right in Littleton. Learn about these amazing birds and walk with a naturalist guide to learn more about them and how to find them. There are two sessions, an AM from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and a PM from 1-3 p.m. Sign up for the session you’d like to attend at https://bit.ly/3MrvFrT.
DECEMBER 7TH
Jingle Jam
Centennial Center Park, 13050 E. Peakview Ave., Centennial | 1:00 PM
Celebrate the holidays by listening and watching local youth choirs sing and dance their way into your hearts. Sip hot chocolate and cider, nosh on a cookie all while enjoying this family-friendly event. Don’t forget to visit with Santa.
DECEMBER 7TH
37th Annual South Suburban Art & Craft Fair
Goodson Recreation Center, 6315 S. University Blvd., Centennial | 9:30 AM Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and browse work from local artists at our Annual Art & Craft Fair! A variety of handmade items will be featured, including pottery, jewelry, holiday items and more. Admission and parking are free. Interested in a booth at the fair? We’re seeking unique items made by local creators. For more information email David Bridges at dbridges@ssprd.org
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dip -giving
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
garlic herb feta dip
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
fig & honey brie
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
directions:
Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
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