Search Parker Magazine December 2022

VISIONS OF SUGAR PLUMS

What would the holidays be without festive sweets? We found some of the best desserts in town to make your holiday merry and bright!

are locally owned, operated and prefer things in person ... with a handshake. Every one of our customers is important to us.

Nutcracker Of Parker

The 18th annual tradition with the Sugar Plum Fairy and the mystical Nutcracker was a great success. The family friendly production of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic kicked off the holiday season at the PACE center.

Town Council Election

Assistant Town Manager Hired

The Town of Parker is pleased to announce that Diane Arthur has joined the organization as Assistant Town Manager. Arthur will work in partnership with the Town Manager to provide key leadership, strategic direction and oversight.

Mayors Tree Lighting

O’Brien Park was the site for the annual lighting. Locals enjoyed the sights and sounds of the season with entertainment, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus and Elsa and Olaf, ice sculpture displays, stage performances, and food vendors.

Veterans Day

Mayor Toborg and Superintendent Kane were invited to attend North Star Academy's Veterans Day Celebration, one of the many celebrations held in schools around the county.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN OTT

Election results for the Parker Town Council seats finalized with Joshua Rivero and Anne Barrington retaining their seats and Brandi Wilks being elected as our new council member.

HOLIDAY TREATS

Way Past Visions of Sugar Plums

From pumpkin pie to eggnog, the holidays are marked by food

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%

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 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.

Locally, we have some great options to enhance our holiday smorgasbord. La Petite Creperie makes mini pumpkin pies, Kneaders offers a wonderful take on the tradional hot chocolate, and Kilwins can always be counted on to assuage your chocolate cravings. And let's not forget the peppermint shake from Chic-fil-a, wow.

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

Photos Courtesy Of La Petite Creperie, Kneaders, Chic-fil-a, and Kilwins

Owen, age 9

I l-ove the holidays because I get to spend time with my whole extended family and I love the traditions.

Kiley, age 9

I love everything about the holidays! I have so much fun spending time with family and friends. I enjoy decorating our house and especially the Christmas tree. I also like to go sledding, play in the snow, and drink hot chocolate.

Annie, age 14

My favorite part of the holidays is the warmth and love it brings me. During this time of year, all of my older siblings come home, and we can be together as a family.

Brielle, age 5

Because we get to eat candy canes.

Kyle, age 12

The greatest gift of all this holiday season for me is a loving family, Christmas music, and close friends.

6 6

Vienna, age 6

I love the presents and Elf on the shelf. I like new pajamas because they are merry. Christmas lights on the house is also my favorite. I think it looks beautiful and it makes me feel great!

Evelyn, age 6

I love eating cookies, opening presents, and decorating the house for Christmas. It’s fun, and helps the house look pretty, and it makes me feel like Christmas inside.

7 8

Savvy, age 20

My favorite thing about the holidays is spending time with family and all of our traditions! Our traditions really make the holidays so special! One of my favorite traditions is picking out a Christmas tree and putting all the decorations on while we listen to Christmas music!

Dalton, age 17

I love driving around and seeing all the Christmas lights and spending much needed time at home with my family over break!

9 Sloan, age 8

I love the holidays because they are so fun. They last a long time and you get to celebrate. And I get to play with my cousins and spend time with my family.

Titan, age 15

I love when the family is together. It just feels special because everyone is happy. The world just seems like a better place.

Shelly, age 11

I love decorating with my family and drinking hot cocoas with the fire on! Oh, and stringing popcorn. 12

Ruby, age 10

I love when we all get together and bake. My aunts come over and we make the best treats for the holidays. We also open a present on Christmas Eve and it's always pajamas.

Jamie, age 3

My favorite thing about Christmas is the presents and our elf, Snuggles, who brings us books..

14 Cayden, age 16

What I love about the holidays is the love and opportunites our community offers to anyone seeking joy and excitement this time of year.

The description from the Giving Machine website lays out an intriguing concept of how we can help those both home and abroad through the simple convenience of a vending machine. Have you ever bought dental care or tiger worms from a vending machine? It is a uniquely special experience to donate to others this way. The Giving Machines are located in just over two dozen cities around the world, and we get to have them in our very own downtown Denver!

Denver’s Mayor Michael Hancock has been a big proponent of this program. "The power of these machines is that anybody can give, no matter what your station in life, no matter how much money you have, anybody can walk up to these machines and give because no amount is too small," said Hancock. "Over the last four years since we've had these machines in Denver, we've raised over $1.3 million." CBS News Colorado.

Working with Mayor Hancock, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has set up the Giving Machines as part of their “Light the World Campaign” each holiday season to help spread aid and holiday cheer to many in need. They have partnered with charities around the world along with local charities to create a custom vending menu. Items range from $3 to $250. You can purchase multiple items in a single transaction up to $3000.

Our local Denver charities included are: A Precious Child, empowering children in need; Doctors Care, health access for low-incomes; Habitat for Humanity

The Giving Machine

"Imagine swiping your credit card at a vending machine - but instead of buying a candy bar for yourself, you’re buying a sheep for a family in a third-world country. Or a polio vaccine. Or a pair of shoes. Or 100 meals for your local food bank. With the #LightTheWorld Giving Machines, that’s exactly what happens. The Giving Machines provide a way for people to follow the example of Jesus to help those in need and make the Christmas season a little more meaningful for themselves and for countless others.”

of Metro Denver, affordable housing; Metro Caring, providing nutritious food and hunger solutions; and Village Exchange Center, serving immigrants and refugees. The three international charities are: iDE Global, creating livelihood opportunities; Mentors International, addressing generational poverty; and Water for People, making high-quality drinking water accessible.

The experience is also educational, with each vending selection describing how the item is used and the difference it can make in someone’s life. Here are a couple examples: For $50, provide a family of four with nutritious food for one week. For $18, buy three ducks with business mentoring to provide income for a family from duck egg production and breeding.

The Giving Machines are at Writer Square each holiday season from Thanksgiving Week through New Year's Day. They are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can plan your visit at givingmachinesdenver.org. Help make the difference; help light the world.

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As individuals and families grow, needs change and insurance policies may need to be revised. We proactively identify your coverage gaps through ongoing communication and periodic policy reviews. We strive to make sure you always have coverage equal to the protection you need.

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CONSULTATIVE ANTICIPATION

Matt Sanders

LICENSED INDEPENDENT

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

Asian fusion

CHERRY VILLAGE ASIAN GRILL

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 $$

JUNZ

More than just great sushi! Junz has been a local staple for years and remains one of the premier destinations for a casual night out or fine dining experience. If you are seeking a great restaurant to get acquainted with Japanese cuisine, look no further than Junz.

JUNZ

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

HAVANA'S BAKERY AND CAFÉ

A family-owned latin eatery who specializes in Cuban cuisine. They hand make all their flaky pastries and try to bring a tropical escape.

19757 Pikes Peak Ave, Parker 303-660-1935 $$ (N)

LA BAGUETTE DE NORMANDY

Certified master chef and chocolatier Michael Dupont serves a little piece of France right here in Colorado.

16524 Keystone Blvd, Unit C, Parker 303-805-9130 $

LA PETITE CREPERIE

The spot to grab madeto-order crepes. Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong. 19751 Mainstreet, Parker 720-638-9722 $ (EC)

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

Bare-bones, family-owned local Tex-Mex eats for breakfast, lunch & dinner. 19553 E Mainstreet, Parker 303-840-0325 $$

LOS DOS POTRILLOS

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 $$

new american

CASTLE CAFE

Set in a former 1890s hotel. Plating hearty American fare like pan-fried chicken & burgers. 403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock 303-814-2233 $$

COLORADO CORK & KEG

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.

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

MANNA

A casual sit-down destination with a menu that reflects Colorado’s growing season. 2350 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock 720-455-3664 $

PARKER GARAGE

The Parker landmark located right downtown offers a locally-sourced menu. Great service and large portions. 19420 Mainstreet, Parker 720-389-8105 $$ (EC)

PEGASUS

A local favorite for breakfast or lunch. American, Greek or Mexican dishes. 313 Jerry St., Castle Rock 303-688-6746 $$

RORY’S

Comfort food and baked goods at their finest. Don’t see it on the menu? Ask for it! 11020 S Pikes Peak Dr., Parker 720-708-2889 $$

SIERRA

High-end, wood-fired kitchen with a warm ambiance, preparing select American dishes. 10680 Cabela Dr., Lone Tree 303-662-8800 $$

TRIBE AT RIVERWALK

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)

WEST MAIN TAPROOM

A modern and open venue that boasts thoughtful and honest cuisine. A haven for the gluten-free crowd. 18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-826-3689 $$

PIZZA

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 $$

STEAKHOUSE

DUKE’S

Rustic restaurant featuring beef & seafood dishes, plus a sports tavern with an Irish vibe.

363 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines 303-814-2487 $$$

FOGO DE CHAO

Upscale Brasilian steakhouse with all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside. Guaraná is a must, and try the Creme de Papaya. 8419 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-481-4001 $$$ (EC)

PERRY’S

Chops, seafood, wine, & cocktails served in an upscale setting with a lounge & live jazz. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-792-2571 $$$

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

Texas-themed steakhouse with a great menu and wonderful atmosphere. 11205 S. Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-5848 $$

TRAPPER’S CHOP HOUSE

Upscale hideaway local favorite featuring their signature Volcanic Hot Rock sear-it-yourself experience. 19308 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-248-2132 $$$

UNIQUE

VISTAVINO MODERN

Quaint Tuscan grill made fresh from local fare. Every dish is a winner! 611 Wilcox St., Castle Rock 303-814-2487 $$

The author Robin S. Sharma said, "What you focus on grows, what you think about expands, and what you dwell upon determines your destiny." I have simplified this saying in my life to merely, "That which you focus on enlarges."

Think about it. When you are thinking about getting a new car, you start noticing that car everywhere you go. It's a simple concept. If we want love, peace, and compassion, why not focus on love, peace, and compassion?

This time of year always inspires a debate about the focus of Christmas. Is it too commercial? Have we forgotten the reason for the season? Or are people just channeling their inner Grinch? I don't know if there is an easy answer to satisfy the argument, but I would venture to guess that people's individual reasons are as varied as the individuals themselves. Because in the end, each individual is going to focus on what they want this time of year.

When everything around us is continually focused on the negative, I find this time of year to be a wonderful breath of fresh air. The hope, the joy, and the nostalgia of the season are unequaled at any other time of year. So despite the negativity of the world, I am grateful for this season.

Russel M. Nelson said of the woes we currently face: "There is, however, a remedy - one that may seem surprising - because it flies in the face of our natural intuitions. Nevertheless, its effects have been validated by scientists as well as men and women of faith.

I am referring to the healing power of gratitude.

I have concluded that counting our blessings is far better than recounting our problems. No matter our situation, showing gratitude for our privileges is a fast-acting and long-lasting spiritual prescription."

HOLIDAY

happenings

NOV 25 | MAYORS TREE LIGHTING 5:30 - 7:30 pm, O'Brien Park

Join the Mayor in a Sing-Along to Silent Night to kick off the Town Tree and Grand Park Lighting.

DEC 3 | HOLIDAY MOVIE ELF 3:00 & 7:00 pm, PACE Center New experience that includes a meet-and-greet with Buddy, games, holiday crafts and the movie.

| PARADE OF LIGHTS 6:00 pm, Downtown Denver Illuminated floats, giant helium-filled character balloons, marching bands and more

DEC 10 | HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS PARADE 10:00 am, Downtown Parker Parade will be along Mainstreet from Victorian Drive to Parker Station. Viewers can arrive at 9:00 am.

| DRIVE THROUGH NATIVITY 4:00 - 8:00 pm, 7160 Bayou Gulch Road, Parker Experience the miracle of Christmas! Free live nativity with real animals.

| A CLASSIC PARKER HOLIDAY Various Times on the 10th and 11th, PACE Center Parker Chorale and Parker Symphony Orchestra treat you to an evening of traditional carols

DEC 12 | HOLIDAY PORCH PARADE DEC 12-19th, Parker Parker community is invited to celebrate by decorating front porches, yards, patios or balconies.

DEC 17 | SWIM WITH SANTA 5:00 or 6:00 pm, Parker Recreation Center

Santa-sized pool party with holiday music, festive giveaways and photo ops with jolly old St. Nick.

ALL SEASON LONG | PARKER ICE TRAIL Hours Vary, Discovery Park Parker skating path meanders through the park reminiscent of a frozen river or canal.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS After Dark, Downtown Parker Lights in O’Brien Park and Downtown Parker will shine through the new year.

TRAIL OF LIGHTS Nightly 5:00 - 8:30 pm, 8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd. Farms holiday experience with singing trees, light tunnels and more.

CHRISTMAS IN COLOR Nightly 6:00 - 9:30 pm, 25690 E. Quincy Ave., Aurora Drive through millions of lights synchronized to your radio.

Thank You & Happy Holidays

By Erin Kane, Superintendent, Douglas County School District

In the spirit of the holidays, THANK YOU to the Parker community for joining together in support of additional funding for the Douglas County School District (DCSD). While the Mill Levy Override (5A) and Bond (5B) didn’t make it over the finish line this time (we were so close!), it was very encouraging to see community support for these measures increase by over 10 points in less than six months (when compared to polling results from May).

Thank you to the Parker Town Council and the Parker Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee for endorsing 5A and 5B, and to Mayor Toberg for speaking in support of our amazing teachers, staff and students at the November 15 Board of Education meeting. Leaders from every Douglas County town and city spoke at that meeting and seeing the camaraderie was absolutely incredible. And, of course, thank you also to all of the citizens involved in the Invest in DCSD campaign committee (especially the committee chair, Christa Gilstrap), as well as staff, board members, parents and community members who volunteered countless hours to educate our residents about the need for this funding.

We are not done with our work to educate residents about how funding works for our school district and our need to pay our teachers and staff more competitively, to invest in our capital infrastructure, and to build new schools in quickly growing communities. This is just a delay. In the meantime, our work to provide the brightest futures possible for our kids will continue. Here’s a glance at what’s in store for DCSD over the next year.

• We will continue to care for our teachers and staff. While the loss of 5A means we will not be able to overcome the $1,000 to $2,000 per student difference in MLO funding between us and our neighbors to pay more competitively, we will be able to continue to maintain current staffing and pay. We will continue to use every tool available to retain our amazing teachers and staff.

• We will be inviting our community into our schools. Be on the lookout for opportunities to come into our schools and see the great work our teachers and staff are doing for our kids and the future of our community. Did you know that we offer Interior and Fashion Design, Criminal Justice, Automotive/Vehicle Maintenance, and Construction (to name a few) to students right here in Parker?

• We will keep educating our community about the need for funding. We will continue our efforts to educate residents about how funding works and our needs moving forward to ensure that we can continue to deliver on our commitment to provide our students with bright futures!

• We will engage with our community to create plans to address enrollment growth and declines. We will continue to evaluate areas with enrollment growth as well as enrollment decline and we will engage our community in our plans to address both.

Seeing our community coming together for the kids of our amazing school district has been inspiring and I know that together we can encourage our neighbors to invest in the students, teachers and staff of the Douglas County School District in the near future. Thank you for being a part of this amazing community!

We came in and were greeted with a smile, we were asked if we needed anything to drink and was promptly given our coffee as we like it. Our services were great, we really like coming here. Thank you for the continued good service.

~ Lorae

Leah is always the best! Super professional and personable. I always look forward to seeing her.

~ Jennifer

As always Kat blew it out of the water with what I asked for. I showed her a picture and she replicated it to a tee, her work is honestly unbelievable. Not only that but she’s so personable and easy to talk to, I look forward to my appointments with her because not only do I leave with perfect hair every time but I also have fun during the whole appointment.

~ Jackie