Search Castle Rock Magazine Dec2024

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CONTENTS

6 What To My Wondering Eyes We take a sneak peak into the winter wonderland of the Kennah home.

BY search castle rock staff

8

| EDITORS TAKe - Pound Cake

10 | Humanity - Passion For Compassion 12 | CUISINE - The Guide 14 | HOLIDAY - Visions Of Sugar Plums

T

ON THE COVER

parker

Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow

co

lorad o

tueller p u b l i s h i n g

SEARCH

CASTLE ROCK

Search Castle Rock is published by Tueller Publishing, LLC

IDEAS & SUBMISSIONS contribute@tuellers.com

NO. 252 | december 2024 Search Castle Rock ©2024 is published by Tueller Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Search Castle Rock is mailed monthly to households and businesses in the greater Castle Rock area free of charge.

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What to my Wondering Eyes Robert and Crystal Kennah give us a glimpse into their winter wonderland

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A

s I walked into the Kennah home one sunny afternoon, I knew my claim that the visit would last only 15 minutes was not likely to happen.

Holiday decorating was underway and a smile crept onto my lips the moment I approached their front door. Entering their gorgeous home, I was welcomed by two giant nutcrackers who flank a holiday greeting of "believe." And just like that, my holiday cheer had increased tenfold.

I was greeted by Crystal, and Alexa Nugent, owner of Design for the Holidays. They had been putting a few finishing touches on some of the decorations. They met last year after Crystal had seen the article in Search Parker Magazine about Alexa and now they are fast friends. Crystal even invited Alexa and Scott (her husband) to their Christmas party last year. And it sounds like the party was quite the event, with a chocolate fountain and horse-drawn carriage rides. Although the party was a new thing for the Kennahs, celebrating the holidays is not.

Every year the Kennahs deck out their home in red, green, and white. They transform their elegant home into the proverbial winter wonderland that brings joy and magic at this time of year. And while the house looks like it can't accommodate even another single light, Crystal says she adds to her collection each year. Her inspiration for the decor comes from St. Nick's Christmas Store.

I was in awe of the trimmed trees, the ornate garnishings, and the sheer magnitude of the adornment. But my favorite part was the garlands. Everywhere in the home was accented with boughs of greens branches, accented by red and white embelishments. Every decoration was highlighted with glimmering lights that brought back those feelings of Christmas from my childhood.

Crystal said she doesn't have a "favorite" decoration, other than the ornaments her son, RJ, made. She just loves the whole season. She loves being home with her family, creating memories and enjoying the magic of the holiday season. But above all, Crystal and Robert love celebrating the birth of the Savior.

DECEMBER 2024 7

E D I TO R ' S TA K E

BY AMBER TUELLER

When I was growing up in Texas, our family lived next door to a couple named Steve and Carol. I am sure that they were curious, and perhaps wary, at hearing that a family with six kids would be moving in (soon to be eight kids!) Through the years they were very kind and neighborly towards our family.

They let us ride our bikes to the top of their long, slanted driveway and race down. We sometimes inadvertently kicked a ball over the fence into their yard and, upon retrieving it, would experience a nice visit with Carol. She would show us around their backyard and let us help with her garden. She let us eat strawberries and shared their garden bounty.

We went over to visit and pet their cats and look at their beautiful wind chimes. They were patient with our childhood antics and took interest in our lives.

Every Christmas Eve, we went as a family to sing carols at their door. We would step into their house and visit for a time. Each year that same week, Carol would show up at our door with a Christmas Pound Cake. It was a much-anticipated part of our holiday treats and traditions, and it was a chance to catch up with them. We really loved our interactions. Carol became ill later in life and recently died.

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In celebrating her life, our family shared memories of her kindness to us. The yearly pound cakes were some of our favorite memories. At her funeral, we learned that she made over 100 pound cakes each year to take to those she loved! She was a sweet example of service and sharing. While reflecting on her life, I have been reminded to take the chances now to tell others how much we appreciate them and share our love with them. It is a blessing to us and others to reach out and treasure those relationships. In honor of Carol, I’d like to share her delicious recipe below.

Christmas Pound Cake 3 sticks cold butter 1 8oz. cream cheese 3 cups sugar

6 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla 3 cups flour

Start mixer with (cold) butter and cream cheese, beating until smooth. On low speed add sugar slowly. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each. Add in vanilla. Slowly add ½ cup flour at a time. Finish cake batter with medium speed for about 45 seconds or until smooth. Bake at 300° for 1 hour and 30 minutes.

give a slice of

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PASSIONFORCOMPASSION In the 1990s, Parker’s Southeast Christian Church began collecting food and gifts for those in need. That group has now grown hugely and has become its own entity, SECORCares. SECORCares continues their Christmas Outreach Program, but they have changed some things. The original holiday program collected various donated items.

The items were taken by volunteers to families around the community.

The distribution process took many hours, and particularly fathers of families in need were not often involved in receiving the donations.

Dennis Gorton, CEO/Executive Director, and Amy Pfister, Development Coordinator, emotionally describe the shift to a new way of running the program and the way it has affected families.

SECORCares partners with churches and agencies to learn about the gift requests from families in need of help. After learning the specific requests of families, SECORCares creates a red gift tag for each child, describing their Christmas list for a $50 amount. This method ensures that each child’s individual needs are served. The tags are hung on Christmas trees in the lobby of the Solomon Centre and members of the community can come choose a child’s tag, for whom they will shop and donate items. The donated items are wrapped by volunteers and prepared for each child. The 2000 seats in the Solomon Centre’s auditorium are filled with prepared packages until the child’s family comes to pick up the items. This allows the parents to give the donated gifts to their child in any way they choose. Dennis shared how this way of giving has really empowered parents to feel more involved in the process.

The Christmas Outreach Program is a sweet and rewarding program of which to be a part. Each year SECORCares and the community provide gifts to 1600 children. Come join this heartwarming cause by picking up a gift tag or volunteering! Learn more at secorcares.com.

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N

Learn how each school will benefit www.dcsdk12.org/funding

Kindergarten Registration is Open!

Kindergarten Registration is Open in the Douglas County School District! If your child will be 5-years-old by October 1, 2025, now is the time to register them for Kindergarten.

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(staggered transition which builds stronger teacher/student relationships and eases the transition into school for students)

For more information: www.dcsdk12.org/kindergarten

OCTOBER 2024 11 DECEMBER 2024 11

THE GUIDE

THE BEST PLACES TO DINE IN DOUGLAS COUNTY

In the interest of providing the 50 best dining options in Douglas County, we must be able to personally recommend each listing.

The guide is subject to change. If you have a suggestion for inclusion on the list, email us at contribute@tuellers.com.

KEY

Based on a typical dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax or tip.

$ ............................. Under $15 $$ ............................... $15-$25 $$$ ......................... Over $25 (EC) Editors Choice (N) New

PEGASUS

Asian fusion

A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, Pegasus has something for everyone. They have served an ecletic menu in a comfortable setting for the past 31 years. While you're there, go see the giant riverboat roulette wheel behind the bar!

CHERRY VILLAGE ASIAN GRILL

JUNZ

Offering a Chinese and Vietnamese-centric menu in a relaxed atmosphere.

17001 Lincoln Ave, #A, Parker 303-840-7338 $$

DANCING NOODLE

A small, family owned, dinein and take-out restaurant that serves authentic homestyle Thai food.

10841 S. Crossroads Dr., Suite 10, Parker 303-805-3880 $$

INDOCHINE

A local go-to for quality home-style cuisine. This Parker fixture is known for a fresh, creative menu.

19751 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-851-8559 $$

JOHN HOLLY’S

Chinese and Thai dishes that are nothing less than the culinary equivalent of an exotic adventure.

9232 Park Meadows Dr, Lone Tree 303-768-9088 $$ 12 SEARCHCASTLEROCK

A favorite sushi place in town with a unique blend of Japanese and French at its very best.

11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd., Parker 720-851-1005 $$

BAKERY/DESSERTs LA PETITE CREPERIE

The locals favorite spot to grab made-to-order crepes.

Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong. Proudly serving farm to table fresh.

19751 Mainstreet, Parker 720-638-9722 $ (EC)

PARIS BAGUETTE

Popular Korean chain that brings expertly crafted baked goods through a warm and welcoming bakery cafe' experience that delivers joy to everyone.

18374 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 720-500-5555 $ (N)

POULETTE BAKESHOP

New artisan bakers taking Parker by storm. Order early, they sell out every day!

19585 Hess Road, Parker 303-955-5647 $ (N)

BARBEQUE BIG JIMS

Don’t be fooled by this being a food truck; if you like southern BBQ, this is your place. Corner of Parker Rd and Longs Way, Parker $$$

GQUE BBQ

Award-winning food. Try the wood-smoked ribs, brisket, pork, or garlic potatoes.

8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree 303-729-2506 $$

HICKORY HOUSE

The Parker tradition. Known for their baby back ribs, but don’t miss the pulled pork and barbeque chicken.

10335 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-9742 $$

OLD WEST BBQ

A hidden gem with familyfriendly pricing. Don’t miss out on their breakfast burritos. 107 Wolfensberger Rd., Castle Rock 303-660-6340 $

BREW PUB 20 MILE TAP HOUSE

Best known for their burgers and wings. Make sure to catch Trivia Tuesdays.

12543 N Hwy 83, Parker 303-841-6782 $$

GREAT DIVIDE BREWERY & ROADHOUSE Destination locale with an informal ambiance offering hearty comfort classics 215 Wilcox St Suite G, Castle Rock 303-955-5788 $$ - $$$ (N)

ROCKYARD BREWING CO. Douglas County’s longest running brew pub. Steaks, burgers, pizza and soup!

880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock 303-814-9273 $$

TAILGATE TAVERN & GRILL

Your neighborhood tavern for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Sports bar with live music not to miss on the weekends.

19552 E. Mainstreet, Parker 303-841-7179 $$

THE LIBRARY CO. BAR & KITCHEN

Offering great food & amazing drinks in a relaxed and warm atmosphere. Clear and simple menu options.

3911 Ambrosia St., Suite 101, Castle Rock 720-389-5986 $$

ITalian CRANELLI’S

Comfort Italian food in a rustic, cozy, casual familyoriented format.

10047 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree 303-799-3661 $$

DANIELLE’S SCRATCH KITCHEN

Stylish, energetic eatery offering elevated Italian fare with an emphasis on great customer service.

872 Happy Canyon Rd. Suite 100, Castle Rock 303-524-9788 $$$

PORTOFINO

Authentic Italian eatery featuring pizza, pasta, calzones and heros. The local “go-to” for fresh Italian.

10920 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-841-9900 $$

SCILEPPI’S

A modern Italian restaurant focused on family recipes and premium ingredients.

210 Third St., Castle Rock 303-688-9000 $$

VIA BACI

Neapolitan pizzas join modern Italian fare at this casual eatery featuring a full bar & patio. 10005 Commons St, Lone Tree 303-790-0828 $$

MEXICAN ADRIANNA’S

Intimate Mexican eatery for authentic cuisine in a relaxed ambiance. Great for parties.

7272 E Hwy 86, Franktown 303-663-7800 $$

CASA MARIACHI

Unassuming local joint serving up straight-forward Mexican plates.

9771 S Parker Rd, Parker 720-842-5105 $$

LA CASITA

Vibrant, cantina-style eatery offering Mexican cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere.

18951 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-842-5181 $$

LAS DELICIAS

MANNA

WEST MAIN TAPROOM

PARKER GARAGE

PIZZA

A casual sit-down destination with a menu that reflects Colorado’s growing season.

2350 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock 720-455-3664 $

The Parker landmark located right downtown offers a locally-sourced menu. Great service and large portions.

19420 Mainstreet, Parker 720-389-8105 $$ (EC)

Bare-bones, family-owned local Tex-Mex eats for breakfast, lunch & dinner.

19553 E Mainstreet, Parker 303-840-0325 $$

PEGASUS

LOS DOS POTRILLOS

RORY’S

Elegant family-owned eatery.

There’s a combo dish to please everyone.

19340 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-840-6574 $$

LOS VOLCANES

Don’t miss the Carnitas! And bring your appetite for the large portions.

10471 S. Parker Rd., Parker 303-841-0160 $$

A local favorite for breakfast or lunch. American, Greek or Mexican dishes.

313 Jerry St., Castle Rock 303-688-6746 $$ Comfort food and baked goods at their finest.

Don’t see it on the menu? Ask for it! Downtown gem.

11020 S Pikes Peak Dr., Parker 720-708-2889 $$

SIERRA

new american

High-end, wood-fired kitchen with a warm ambiance, preparing select American dishes.

10680 Cabela Dr., Lone Tree 303-662-8800 $$

CASTLE CAFE

TRIBE AT RIVERWALK

Set in a former 1890s hotel.

Plating hearty American fare like pan-fried chicken & burgers.

403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock 303-814-2233 $$

VALERIE'S BREWHOUSE

Upscale, yet casual dining experience with a one-of-akind menu. Don't miss the brunch.

115 Wilcox Street, Castle Rock 303-362-0904 $$$ (N)

A modern and open venue that boasts thoughtful and honest cuisine. A haven for the gluten-free crowd.

18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-826-3689 $$

ANTONIO’S

A traditional family-style Italian pizza restaurant with a Brooklyn flair.

12947 S Parker Rd., Parker 720-851-5300 $

ARTISAN

Delicious Neapolitan-style pizza that makes each dish an individual work of art! And don’t forget dessert.

12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker 303-840-0518 $

COLORADOUGH

A refreshing take on madefrom-scratch pizza. So fresh they don’t even have a freezer! 17860 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-386-3333 $$

LIL’ RICCI’S

New York pizzas & other red sauce staples in a low-key setting. Can’t miss the garlic knots. 16526 Keystone Blvd, Parker 303-220-7422 $$

PARRY’S

NY-style pizza, wings, & casual Italian eats, in kidfriendly quarters.

5650 Allen Way, Castle Rock 303-814-8686 $$

Uniquely fun sports bar with a creative menu of brats and dogs.

971 Park St., Castle Rock 303-660-2399 $

CRAVE

A favorite gourmet burger joint. Imaginative menu with amazing handcrafted shakes.

3982 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock 303-814-2829 $$

DOUG'S DAY DINER

American breakfast cafe where everything is made from scratch.

18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-476-7162 $$ DECEMBER 2024 13

also cited desserts as a top reason to anticipate the holidays, with other top traditions being holiday movies, holiday music, and decorating the Christmas tree.

HOLIDAY TREATS

Way Past Visions of Sugar Plums From pumpkin pie to eggnog, the holidays are marked by food

Holiday desserts elicit wonderful memories that people want to relive, recreate for the next generation, and share with others.

Whether it's baking night with the family, swapping holiday goodies with friends, or taking a plate of treats to the neighbors, desserts are intertwined into the fabric of our holiday traditions.

Photos Courtesy Of La Petite Creperie, Kneaders, Posh Cakes, and Kilwins

I can't think of the holidays without imagining all the delicious food that comes with them. Growing up that meant fudge, buttermilk mints, and sugar cookies. My mouth waters just typing them now. And a recent study shows I'm not alone, when 63%

Locally, we have some great options to enhance our holiday smorgasbord. La Petite Creperie makes mini pumpkin pies, Posh Cakes can't keep up this season filling orders for their Christmas cookies, Kneaders offers a wonderful take on the tradional hot chocolate, and Kilwins can always be counted on to assuage your chocolate cravings.

Try some of these favorites or let us know yours at www.searchparker.com.

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