Search South Aurora November 2024

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NOVEMBER 2024 3

CONTENTS

6 Take A Bow

8 | HOLIDAY - Mayor's Holiday Lighting

The time-honored holiday tradition for many residents celebrates its 20th anniversary.

BY Lindsay Barlow

ON THE COVER The Holiday Season begins

10 | Humanity - The Giving Cookie 12 | SERVICE - Humanitarian

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SEARCH SOUTH

AURORA Search South Aurora is published

by Tueller Publishing, LLC

IDEAS & SUBMISSIONS contribute@tuellers.com

NO. 202 | NOVEMBER 2024 Search South Aurora ©2024 is published by Tueller Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Search South Aurora is mailed monthly to households and businesses in the greater South Aurora area free of charge.

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Take A Bow

Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet is a holiday must for many people around the world. And for one local dance studio, Colorado School of Dance in Parker, this time-honored tradition is especially meaningful for their dancers, families, and their community.

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Executive Producer and Studio Owner, Lisa Tuska, beams with pride every time you mention “The Nutcracker of Parker," especially this year with the show celebrating its 20th Anniversary! "Families are always looking for both quality and value when it comes to going out for the holidays together.

Being able to attend a Nutcracker Ballet in your own neighborhood with a ticket price that will allow the entire family to attend, is what we love about our show," Tuska says. And with regard to the time and energy that goes into this show every year, Tuska says it’s totally worth it. "Watching my students have an unforgettable performance opportunity as well as my teachers being able to choreograph and produce this magic, is what makes everything come full circle for me. I am also so thankful for our audiences. We love them and appreciate their support each year!"

And Lisa is not the only one beaming about this upcoming production.

"It is an honor for me to bring this classic holiday ballet tradition to the people of the town of Parker. We present the most fun and entertaining Nutcracker in town, with the liveliest choreography performed by highly skilled and well-rounded dancers. It's a true joy for dancers and audiences alike," says Elizabeth Moore (Ballet Director, Choreographer & Mrs. Staulbaum in the show).

Buzz around the Nutcracker of Parker starts in August when auditions open, not only for the students of CSD but the community members as well. “Seeing the transformation from auditions to the performance story that unfolds on stage is truly magical,” says 12-year veteran Amanda Williams (Youth Ballet Company Director & Choreographer for the show).

In fact, CSD has multiple families who perform together (kids and parents) in a show one night and then sit in the audience the next. For Colorado School of Dance, this literally is a family affair both on stage and off.

And when it comes to production value, this is not just your average performance. From the costumes, to the lighting, to the Christmas tree that grows on the stage...even the programs are glossy and professional.

This local production delivers the quality of a big city show to your very own neighborhood. But the most special parts of this whole show are the kids and what they accomplish. “I’ve seen the show 15 years in a row and I still get excited to watch it every year,” says Jen (Mom of 3 CSD dancers). “No matter how many times I have seen this ballet, I am always amazed at the talent and stage presence of each individual dancer, no matter their age. CSD has really gotten it right when it comes to giving these kids the tools to perform in a confident and beautiful way.”

NOVEMBER 2024 7

HOLIDAYLIGHTING Each November, Downtown Parker becomes its own Rockwell painting, with enormous trees forming a canopy of twinkling lights in O’Brien Park and up and down Mainstreet. The season starts with the traditional Mayor’s Tree Lighting event. Friday, November 29th, join Mayor Jeff Toborg, the Parker Chorale, performers from The Nutcracker of Parker and, of course, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, for a magical evening marking the start of Parker’s Hometown Holiday Season.

The holiday spirit will spread through the crowd as the event kicks off with the Parker Chorale leading a “Silent Night” sing-along, followed by the countdown to the lighting of the Town tree and park. Once the lights come on you can stroll paths through the park to take in the festive ice sculptures, meet some favorite holiday characters with stories and activities to enjoy, maybe spot the “Elf in the Tree” through the twinkling lights, or take pictures with Elsa and Olaf!

Adding to the evening will be caroling by local high school choirs as well as a performance from the beloved Nutcracker of Parker. Treats from local food vendors will be available as well. Complete the experience with another holiday favorite, carriage rides through town.

And don't forget to visit the Parker Ice Trail at Discovery Park. Even if you don’t skate, head over to Discovery Park to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays.

Enjoy all there is to experience during Parker’s Hometown Holiday Weekend: the Mayor’s Tree Lighting and Parker’s own Ice Trail at Discovery Park. Be sure to mark your calendar for the upcoming Holiday Carriage Parade on December 7th!

Activites will include the Holiday ice sculpture displays stationed throughout the park. Returning this year....the community has the chance to decide what our amazing ice sculpture vendor will create during his live ice carving demonstration! Keep an eye on the Town's Facebook page (@TownofParkerCO) to vote for your favorite and then come to the event to see if your favorite won!

Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be in Town for the evening!

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THEGIVINGCOOKIE

Beginnings Katie Pearce Founder The pungent smell in this place was different than anything I’d ever experienced and, although I was starting to get used to it, I still had to resist the urge to cover my nose. I watched the group of young boys in the muddy, unpaved street use a Coke can as a soccer ball, as I slipped into the back seat of the RAV4 SUV we had spent so much time in this past week. I was ready to go home, but I knew that I would be changed forever by the things I’d experienced in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya. The orphans I had met would always have a place in my heart.

The men and women who had dedicated their lives to helping these children would forever have a place of honor in my mind. The sights and smells and sounds of poverty would urge me forward in my efforts.

This was where our foster daughter had spent a large portion of her time after fleeing the Democratic Republic of Congo. Before she boarded the plane on Christmas Eve several years ago, very sick and pregnant, she lived in a dilapidated, corrugated tin house, just like the ones that passed through my view as we drove away from the slums. I felt relief that she and her sweet little baby were now safe in the United States going to school, learning, and working, never to smell this scent again.

We stopped at an intersection and a big bus rolled up beside us. I looked up from my backseat window and saw a little face in one of its windows. I could only see her big, dark-brown eyes peering through the glass, but they looked sad and empty. I gave her the biggest smile I could muster and tried to say in my smile that she was beautiful and that even in this hard place, there was hope and somehow, everything 10 SEARCHSOUTHAURORA

would be alright. I wished I could feel confident that it was true. My smile caught her eye and, as the bus rolled away, I saw her eyes turn up, and I hoped that she was smiling back.

My smile didn’t change anything for that little girl’s future, but a chance for education can. Every child we met in Nairobi had a dream. A dream to become a teacher, a pilot, a nurse. They all knew that education was the key to realizing these aspirations, but many were too keenly aware that this kind of education was out of their grasp and would never be a part of their life journey. There are millions of children around the world that share their despair.

I desperately wanted to find a way to give them a chance to achieve their aspirations. How could I help young people find a path to succeed? How could I turn the resources and abilities I’ve been given into hope for others?

After reflecting on these questions, the idea of The Giving Cookie was born.

The Giving Cookie is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that brings hope to children by funding schools in impoverished areas. But don’t be fooled by our nonprofit status or our humble beginnings. We have some seriously delicious cookies!

Mother Teresa once said, "We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop." At The Giving Cookie we understand that what we do is just a drop, but by joining together as a community, our individual drops can combine to make a difference. We are all volunteers—no one is being paid. Every cent that isn’t spent for the ingredients in the cookies that we deliver goes directly into our school fund. We are so eager to bring hope through education to these children that need it so desperately.

We “cookie” to bring hope and to shape a brighter future. We'd love to have you combine your drop with ours and help us make a difference.

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS Go to www.thegivingcookie.com. Check out our amazing cookie boxes and find out when we’ll be delivering to your area.

Place an order that corresponds with the delivery date in your city.

On cookie day, the cookies are made fresh and delivered right to your front porch!

Each season offers a new variety box with mouthwatering gourmet cookies. Or keep it simple with Kate’s Chocolate Chipper box!

Our cookies are shareable-sized, so the whole family can enjoy.

They make beautiful gifts for friends and family in your area!

If you don’t like cookies (heaven help you) or would just like to donate to help us reach our goal to build a school in Mali, it is easy to donate on our website: www.thegivingcookie.com/ donate Let’s combine our “drops”!

Making a difference never tasted so good. www.thegivingcookie.com

NOVEMBER 2024 11

HUMANITARIAN (noun) \ hyü-,ma-nǝ-'ter-ē-ǝn \ A person actively engaged in promoting human welfare and social reforms; one who has concern for helping to improve the welfare and happiness of people.

This is a special time of year to kick off the holiday season when so many turn their thoughts to remember what is most important. It is an honored tradition for us to take a look at our lives and give thanks for what we have. We count our blessings of family, friendship, faith, home, work, food, community and so much more. I love how this act of giving thanks often leads us to also want to give and share with those around us. This season is filled with opportunities to look outside of ourselves and our circumstances to help others. Service opportunities are abundant and our hearts seem more open to this focus. What a blessing this is for both those that give and those that receive help.

Our school district is an example of this phenomenon. Each graduate of the Douglas County School district is asked to fulfill 20 hours of community service in order to graduate. I love how this teaches our young people from early on how meaningful and important it is to look outside of themselves and spend time in service. On the DCSD website it talks about how this helps students to learn selflessness and fosters personal growth. As students help others, they gain character and experience for themselves as well.

In this issue we want to take a look at some of the other humanitarian efforts in our area that reach both near and far. As we live in a community of large abundance, it is refreshing to see individuals and groups who want to and work toward helping those who are in need.

Thanks for giving!

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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

JUNZ

Asian fusion

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.

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 $$

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 $$

NOVEMBER 2024 13

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 $$ 14 SEARCHSOUTHAURORA

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 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 $$

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 $$

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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 $$

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