ometown H
H O L I D A Y S No v e m b e r 2 2 , 2 012
PAGE 2 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > NOVEMBER 22, 2012
Better be good
Inside Yummy for the tummy.
Christmas fruit drops are fun to
make and swap with friends.
Page 6
Season’s greetings. What to know about sending out holiday
cards in time.
Perfect cup. How to make old-fashioned hot chocolate.
Page 5 Page 9
Hometown events: Find out what holiday events are happening in your hometown. Castle Rock Centennial Elbert County Englewood Highlands Ranch Littleton Lone Tree Parker
Page 4 Page 4 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 9 Page 10
More holiday fun. Find out what holiday shows, musicals and other entertainment are going on near you. Page 10 Hosting a holiday hit. Tips to entertain family and friends with lavish decorations and delectable food.
Page 11
Santa visits with children and their parents during last year’s Highlands Ranch Hometown Holiday celebration. File photo
Hometown Holidays
This special section is produced by Colorado Community Media newspapers. For more information about advertising opportunities, call 720-409-4764, and please visit the ourcoloradonews.com website. To comment on this section, email news@ ourcoloradonews.com
Colorado Community Media 9137 S. Ridgeline Blvd., Suite 210 Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
A
COOKBOOK
15
complete dinner party menus
Available at Tattered Cover, Compleat Gourmet & Online
www.eclectic-entertaining.com
Great Fundraisers! We Deliver to You! Fresh Kettle Korn makes a great gift for the Holidays. Order our gift bags online: www.DarboKettleKorn.com. We’re available for your party or event!
303.888.2470
Shop provides gifts for children in need By Sonya Ellingboe sellingboe@ourcoloradonews.com
E
Each December, more than 400 community volunteers combine energy and time to make the holidays happier for more than 2,000 children from about 700 families in Arapahoe County — kids who might not have a Christmas gift otherwise. They come from the Littleton, Englewood and Sheridan communities. For 40 years, the Arapahoe County Santa Claus Shop volunteers have gathered, cleaned, sorted, repaired and displayed new and gently used toys, books and games for kids ages 1-12 — to be given to referred parents in a two-day shopping spree in early December. Volunteers are individuals, service groups and youth groups. Those with questions can email arapahoesantashop@ msn.com. Some volunteers specialize in repairing bikes, for example, and others have a skill with dolls. Any help is welcome. More than 40 donation locations throughout the county at many businesses are open now and listed at arapahoesantashop.org. Toys will be collected into early December, when volunteers will go to work at the Littleton shop site on South Datura Street across from Woodlawn Shopping Center in a multipurpose building owned by the county. Among donation drops: Bradford Auto Body, Town Hall Arts Center, Broadway Estates Conoco, Littleton fire stations, Ro-
Bill and Helen Mc Daniel of Brush, who make cradles for the Santa Claus Shop each year, greet Andrea and her grandmother at the 2011 shop. Courtesy photo mancing the Bean, Buck and Goodson recreation centers, Downtown Dinners and Littleton YMCA. Volunteers are needed at the shop Dec. 7-12 to arrange donated items and on Dec. 13-14 to run the shop and help parents find what they need from this huge toy store. Distribution is to families referred by schools or other agencies. Perhaps there are dolls and plush toys around town awaiting a new little friend? Check the corners and then check that website. Or, cash donations are welcome at Arapahoe Santa Claus Shop, P.O. Box 2004, Littleton, CO 80161-2004.
NOVEMBER 22, 2012 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > PAGE 3
Personalized gifts add special touch By ARA
C
Choosing the perfect gift for your loved ones can be a difficult task. However, you don’t have to stress about going from store to store wondering if you’re picking out the right size or color or whether it fits your budget. If you find yourself struggling to find the perfect gift this holiday season, consider taking a different approach - personalize gifts you know your friends, family and coworkers will love unwrapping. Personalized gifts show that you care enough to invest your time and energy to create the perfect present. In particular, photos from an event or family trip will often hold special meaning and can serve as the inspiration to a myriad of gift giving options.- Here are a few ideas: Bring memories back Opening a gift featuring memories of the great moments over the past year will have your loved ones beaming with happiness. Help the recipient keep track of important dates and meetings while also reliving favorite events of the past with a photo calendar. Take those favorite photos to Staples Copy and Print Center or order online, choose from hundreds of calendar designs, and pick up the finished calendar in as few as four hours. Need another gift for your loved ones? Use those same favorite pictures to create personalized photo books which make great stocking stuffers. Create something artistic You can really wow your loved ones this holiday season with a personalized gift that has an artistic touch - even if your
Courtesy of ARA talents are limited to stick figures. Photographs are one form of art, and you can turn a favorite photograph - whether it’s of a person, landscape or really intricate design - into a large mural with Staples EasyCanvas prints, available at Staples retail locations. Your photos will be printed on gallery-wrapped, high-quality textured photo paper, available in various sizes, allowing you to size the gift perfectly for the recipient’s home. One way to really make the photo mural stand out is to frame it to perfectly match the decor of the room where it will be hung. Frame it your way If you don’t have time to put a collage together for a calendar or photo book, a great last minute gift option is a basic photo enlargement. You can purchase a lovely frame to turn a simple picture into an elegant gift or have a larger version mounted or laminated. Places like Staples can do it for you instantly in store providing a convenient option when you’re pressed for time during the holidays. Finding ways like these to personalize gifts will show the recipients just how much you care.
The thrill of the (tree) hunt
A
After years of taking the artificial Christmas tree out of the storage closet, you’ve finally decided to take the family on a day trip and cut down your own tree. You’ve selected a tree farm or a designated cutting site in the mountains. You’ve planned your strategy and are getting excited about the thrill of the hunt, and so are your kids. Before you load up the family and take off on your adventure, check to be sure you’ve packed plenty of water and snacks for the road. Taking along some paper towels, disposable wipes and a trash bag wouldn’t be a bad idea. Be sure you are dressing for the weather. Being cold and miserable would take the fun out of the trip. Wear the oldest clothing and your worst old shoes or snow boots. You could be getting down and dirty, especially if the ground is wet or muddy. Here’s your chance to wear those horrible “moon boots” that you’ve kept over the decades for no good reason at all. Heavy gloves, hats and coats complete your fashion statement. Temperatures can change in a jiffy in Colorado, so be prepared for anything. An extra blanket or two wouldn’t hurt. In case your destination doesn’t offer the tools to cut down and transport your tree, be sure to include a handsaw and a rope. If you’ve forgotten a saw, some of the tree-cutting sites will offer the use of one for a small fee, so be prepared with some cash.
Two more items you should bring along are a tape measure or yardstick, and a stepladder. Why, you ask? Well, if you are REALLY prepared for the journey, you will have measured the height and width of your doorway, and the height of the ceiling in the room where your prized Christmas tree will be placed. Remember that trees look relatively small when you see them in their outdoor surroundings. It could be a different story once you get the tree to your door. You may look pretty silly to others as you carry around that stepladder, but consider this … there is the possibility that really, really small creatures have called your tree home. Case in point: In 2003, a family brought a tree home, put it up and decorated it before realizing they had brought a family of little field mice home with them! Check the
Stock photo higher branches and shake the tree. You might be the only one carrying a yardstick and stepladder around, but you’ll be the one who won’t encounter any problems once you’re home. After what seems like hours of walking around – and hearing dad say, “how about THIS one?” – you’ve finally spotted the perfect tree. Before you get all excited about cutting it down, take a peak at the bottom. Move the branches away and make sure the trunk is straight. If you get a tree with a crooked trunk, you might never get it straight in its base
at home. When you load the tree on top of your car, make sure the base is facing the front and that it’s tied down securely. You don’t want to see your tree bouncing down the road as you look in your rear view mirror. Let’s see … drinks, snacks, extra blankets, boots, cutting supplies, transporting supplies … your day trip is pretty much covered, but wait! Don’t forget the camera. Just consider all the photo-ops of your adventure – not to mention documenting why dad didn’t win out on tree choice!
PAGE 4 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > NOVEMBER 22, 2012
CASTLE ROCK HOLIDAY EVENTS
Star bright
THROUGH DECEMBER: FESTIVAL OF TREES The Festival of Trees, the lighting of the trees through Festival Park, runs through December in downtown Castle Rock.
NOV. 25: PANCAKE BREAKFAST Castle Rock Explorers’ pancake breakfast will be at Applebee’s Restaurant, 390 W. Allen St. in Castle Rock, from 7-10 a.m. Castle Rock Police Explorers and their advisers will serve breakfast during the group’s pancake breakfast fundraiser. Tickets are $7, and proceeds will help the Explorers sponsor numerous community charity events during the holidays. NOV. 30-DEC. 16: “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” Front Range Theatre Company will present “A Christmas Carol” at 7 p.m. at Generations Church, 221 Perry St., Castle Rock. Cost: $10 to $17. Tickets: www.frontrangetheatre.org or call 866-879-7373. www. frontrangetheatre.org.
Castle Rock’s star shines brightly during the holiday season every year. File photo
Through winter season: Ice skating The Rink at the Rock, Castle Rock’s ice rink, is at 414 North Perry, next to finn lafleur, and will remain open through the winter season. The rink is open from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sundays, 3-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and holidays. For more information call (720) 498-0092 or email
info@rinkattherock.com.
DEC. 1: LARKSPUR TREE LIGHTING At 4:30 p.m., Larkspur’s annual tree lighting tradition continues with over 30 trees being decorated and lit at Larkspur Community Park. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served and there will be a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will arrive by fire truck and hand out gift bags to all the children. DEC. 1: BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Breakfast with Santa will be at 9 a.m. in the Food Court at the Outlets of Castle Rock, with a pancake breakfast provided by A Perfect Bite Catering. Radio Disney’s Street Team will have giveaways. Cost is $5, a new unwrapped toy, or a food donation for the Douglas County Task Force. DEC. 4: COLORADO GIVES DAY Colorado Gives Day is a 24-hour, online effort from the Douglas County Non-Profit Coalition to raise $500,000 collectively among the participating charities to support the wide range of philanthropic organizations located within the county. The coalition has developed a website, www. DouglasCountyGives.org, through the assistance of FirstBank of Douglas County and the Douglas County Community Foundation. DEC. 15: HOLIDAYS IN THE MEADOWS Santa and Mrs. Claus invite you to their
“Open House” at The Grange from 10-11 a.m. They will arrive by trolley in front of The Grange at 10 a.m. and then are available for photos. Event is free and open to all ages. The Grange is at 3692 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock, in The Meadows. Full details are available on MeadowsLink.com or call 303-814-2358. DEC. 14: HOLIDAY CONCERT Castle Rock Chorale presents “The Holly and The Ivy: Christmas in Castle Rock” at 7:30 p.m. The concert will feature a range of familiar and novel Christmas carols, seasonal music and a special audience singalong. Christ’s Episcopal Church, 615 4th Street, Castle Rock. Tickets are available at the door: $15 general admission, $10 for students and seniors. www.castlerockchorale.org. DEC. 15: CRAFT FAIR Sedalia Elementary School’s annual craft fair is from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at 5449 N. Huxtable St., Sedalia, 80135. Contact: 303647-2145 DEC. 26-JAN. 31: CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING Locations are: Metzler Ranch Community, Paintbrush, Centennial and Founders parks. Mulch from recycled trees will only be available at Metzler Ranch Community Park through March 31 or when gone. Call 720733-2260 for additional information.
CENTENNIAL HOLIDAY EVENTS NOV. 28: HOLIDAY LIGHTING IN CENTENNIAL Kick off the holiday season with Centennial’s first holiday lighting celebration at Centennial Center Park from 6-7 p.m. Enjoy holiday performances from choral groups and holiday treats from businesses. Bundle up and bring family and friends destined to become a new holiday tradition. The park is located at 13050 E. Peakview Ave., Centennial. More information: 303-325-8087.
Having an ice holiday season
DEC. 14: HANUKKAH CELEBRATION Enjoy a traditional Hanukkah celebration at Temple Sinai, 3509 S. Glencoe St. in Denver. Shabbat Service begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. There will be entertainment for the kids. For additional information, contact Lisa Thorner at lisa@sinaidenver.org or call 303-759-1827.
DEC. 1: GRANDVIEW CRAFT FAIR Holiday shopping is made easy with handmade treats, crafts and gifts from local artisans. Fair runs from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Grandview High School, 20500 E. Arapahoe Road, Aurora. Craft fair is located in the lower commons level of the school. Park in the lower level parking lot, located on the northeast side of the school. DEC. 7: A 1940S WHITE CHRISTMAS BALL Fabulous ‘40s and ‘50s holiday party. Enjoy dancing among movie set props and light, re-enactors, sleighs, Christmas trees, a canopy of lights and music by The Hot Tomatoes, 6 p.m.-1 a.m. at Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum, 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver. For more information, call 720-924-1945. Tickets are $40 in advance or $45 at the door. THROUGH FEB. 3: ICE SKATING The Cube Ice Rink located in Commons Park provides a truly unique amenity to
303-539-7141. The Cube is located at The Streets at SouthGlenn, 6851 South Gaylord St. in Centennial.
DEC. 22-23: SKATE WITH SANTA Take to the ice with the season’s most popular celebrity for two exclusive dates at the Family Sports Center, 6901 S. Peoria in Centennial. Join Santa on Dec. 22 from 1-1:45 p.m. and on Dec. 23 from 3:15-4 p.m. For more information call 303-7089500. Public skating fees apply.
Attendees check out a menorah carved out of ice during the Chabad Jewish Center’s Chanukah on Ice at the Family Sports Center in Centennial. File photo The Streets at SouthGlenn. The rink is surrounded by eclectic cafes, restaurants and shopping. Shoppers and visitors may enjoy
outdoor ice skating and Colorado winter cheer. For more details, including hours of operation and rates, call guest services at
DEC. 31: NEW YEAR’S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA Celebrate the start of 2013 with South Suburban’s Family Sports Center, 6901 S. Peoria in Centennial. Enjoy laser tag, eXerGames, inflatables, bumper cars, ice skating, and an age-appropriate movie. Toast the new year with sparking cider while watching the ball-drop at midnight. Popcorn and dinner included. Activities begin at 7 p.m. Contact Michelle Collette at 303708-9500, ext. 217, or michellec@sspr.org for more information. Fees are $25 for online registration or $30 at the door. Suitable for ages 8 to 14 years.
NOVEMBER 22, 2012 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > PAGE 5
Getting holiday cards out on time
S
Treasures on Park Street November 23 & 24
Sending and receiving holiday cards is an important part of the season for many since it is often the only time of the year when people catch up with each other. Getting those holiday cards out in a timely manner during this busy time doesn’t have to stressful. Just remember these simple suggestions by the folks at American Greetings.
After Thanksgiving Day Sale!!
Forget the big box stores!
Plan for your cards to be delivered between Dec. 10 and Dec. 24. Make sure you have enough postage on hand.
Come to Treasures on Park Street where for two days the entire store is
2 3
This is a once-a-year two-day event, so don’t miss out!
1
Shop early for the best selection of greeting cards. Holiday cards are already out at major retailers.
Divide signing cards and addressing enveloped into a few short chunks of time. Ten cards a night for a few nights makes the job much more manageable.
4
Our entire store will be 50% off Including Holiday!!
Enlist the family to help. Have your spouse address the envelopes and let the kids apply the stamps and decorative seals. Make it a family tradition.
with this ad
5
Take advantage of down time – waiting in the doctor’s office, eating lunch at your desk, riding the train or bus. Keep several pre-addressed cards in your purse or bag to fill out while you’re doing nothing in particular.
Treasures on Park Street
6
Castle Rock, CO 80109
1638 Park St.
Keep extra cards on hand in case you hear from someone who is not on your card list – and be sure to add these people to next year’s list. Source: ARA Content
free
303-688-6129 Stock photo
A savings card for ? exclusive
discounts
Where do I sign up? It’s easy! Pick up a free Go to Town savings card at the Town of Parker Recreation Center, Fieldhouse, the Parker Arts, Culture and Events (PACE) Center or at Town Hall. Along with your card, grab a free limited edition Parker t-shirt (while supplies last). With the savings card, enjoy exclusive discounts and giveaways from participating Parker businesses. The savings card is part of Parker’s Go to Town program, which encourages you to live, shop, work and play in Parker. Go online to www.parkeronline.org/gototown or call 303.841.0353 to learn more about the Go to Town program and for a list of current Parker deals.
Pick Up Your FREE Go to Town Savings Card at the following events: Turkey Day 5k Fun Run/Walk - Nov. 22 Mayor’s Holiday Lighting - Nov. 23 Christmas Carriage Parade - Dec. 8 www.parkeronline.org/events
PAGE 6 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > NOVEMBER 22, 2012
ELBERT HOLIDAY EVENTS
NOV. 24: KIOWA LIGHT FESTIVAL Join the town of Kiowa for a night of fun and lights. Start at Kiowa Town Hall, 404 Comanche St. and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus as they officially light the town tree in front of the building. All those who attend are invited to come to Patty Ann’s Café, 230 Comanche St. for food and drinks. DEC. 1: PET PICTURES WITH SANTA Ginger’s Legacy will be holding their annual Pet Pictures with Santa 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The event is hosted by Elizabeth Animal Hospital, 330 W. Kiowa Ave. in Elizabeth. A single photo is $10. A disc with all photos is $20. For more information, call 303-646-2891. DEC. 7: FIRST FRIDAY NIGHT SHOPPING Enjoy extended shopping hours for the holiday on Main Street in downtown Elizabeth from 5-8 p.m.
Each participating store will have cookie-themed treats and prizes. DEC. 8: HOLIDAY CONCERT High Plains Singers Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. at Elizabeth Middle School, 4427 County Road 13 in Elizabeth. Tickets at the door are $8 for adults; $6 for students, vets, seniors, and children under 12. Tickets may be purchased in advance from High Plains singers or staff members; Bank of Choice, 326 Comanche Ave. in Kiowa; Bank of Choice at 120 Elizabeth St in Elizabeth or Grumpy’s Coffee at 796 E. Kiowa Ave. in Elizabeth. DEC. 24: CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE AND SOUP DINNER Elbert Presbyterian Church, 24281 Main St. in Elbert. All are welcome. Dinner is free. Meet neighbors, enjoy a holiday service and a home-cooked assortment of soups provided by the members of the church. Services begin at 5:30 p.m.
Winter begins December 21
Christmas fruit drops T
The perfect holiday sweets for an old-fashioned swap with friends. - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened - 3/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup (packed) dark brown sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 3 large eggs - 2 cups toasted rice cereal - 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped - 1/2 cup red candied cherries, coarsely chopped - 1/2 cup green candied cherries, coarsely chopped - 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
1 2
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease large cookie sheet.
On waxed paper, combine flour, baking soda and salt. In large bowl, with mixer at medium speed, beat butter and sugars until creamy, occasionally scraping bowl with rubber spatula. Beat in vanilla, then eggs, one at a time. At low speed, gradually add flour mixture; beat just until blended, occasionally scraping bowl. With spoon, stir in cereal, walnuts, cherries and 1 cup chocolate chips.
3
Drop dough by rounded teaspoons, 1 inch apart, onto cookie sheet. Bake cookies 10-11 minutes or until golden. Transfer cookies to wire rack to cool. Repeat with remaining dough.
4
Place remaining 1/2 cup chocolate chips in small microwave-safe bowl; heat in microwave on Medium (50 percent power) about 2 minutes or until chocolate melts, stirring once. Stir until smooth. Place cookies on waxed paper; drizzle with melted chocolate. When chocolate is set, store cookies, with waxed paper between layers, in tightly covered container at room temperature up to 1 week, or in freezer up to 3 months. Makes 6 dozen cookies. Each serving: About 100 calories, 6g total fat (2g saturated), 17mg cholesterol, 80mg sodium, 12g total carbs, 1g protein. (c) 2011 Hearst Communications Inc. All rights reserved
Holidays at your own PACE. DENVER MUNICIPAL BAND
HOLIDAY BRASS
A Classic
Parker Holiday With Parker Chorale & Parker Symphony Orchestra
THE NUTCRACKER OF PARKER BY COLORADO SCHOOL OF DANCE
Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 13-16, various times
Tickets start at $11
Tickets start at $11
A CLASSIC PARKER HOLIDAY
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
PARKER CHORALE AND PARKER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH AURORA FOX
Dec. 7-8 at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets start at $16
Dec. 20-23, various times
Tickets start at $11
Tickets at your own PACE. Build your own package at www.PACEcenteronline.org 303.805.6800
Getting married? Call Denise at 303.805.3365.
20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker, CO 80138
NOVEMBER 22, 2012 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > PAGE 7
Celebrate the holidays in traditional German style
Special to Colorado Community Media
R
Relive a centuries old German tradition when the 12th annual Denver Christkindl Market kicks off on Nov. 23, in connection with Downtown Denver’s Grand Illumination and the Parade of Lights. This typical German Christmas market at Skyline Park along the 16th Street Mall will continue through Dec. 22. The year 2012 will again bring the sights, sounds and flavors of the holiday season with a German flair to the 16th Street Mall. Music, holiday lights and typical vendor cabins will dot Skyline Park across from the Daniels & Fisher Clock Tower. Be sure to see the Christkindl in person during the official opening ceremony on Nov. 24, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The opening ceremony includes: - Opening Remarks by local representatives - Musical performances by the Colorado Chorale Ensemble and the Austrian Connection - The Christkind arrival and prologue Enjoy a great entertainment schedule with dozens of community and high school groups who perform or sing throughout the festival. The market includes vendors from Germany and other European countries, as well as local artisans, offering high quality, handcrafted gift items such as traditional hand-carved wooden figurines, handmade candles, and ornaments. Traditional German food, bratwurst, potato pancakes, goulash and apple strudel will tempt your taste buds. Sip on warm Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) as you listen to traditional Christmas carols, or you can toast your friends with an authentic German Bier! Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday through Wednesday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, with extended hours for the Parade of Lights on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, 2012. “The Denver Christkindl Market is a great event for kids of all ages from toddlers to 100 years old. The German American Chamber of Commerce - Colorado Chap-
ter is proud to again host this great event and to help keep the rich German traditions alive in Denver,” according to Jesse Young, president of the German American COC. The Denver Christkindl Market is a production of the German Cultural Foundation of the Rocky Mountains and the German American Chamber of Commerce Colorado Chapter, the initial contact for German companies considering business in the Rocky Mountain region, connecting German decision-makers with their U.S. counterparts. For additional information about our Christkindl Market please contact us at info@denverchristkindlmarket.com.
ENGLEWOOD HOLIDAY EVENTS NOV. 26: TREE LIGHTING Mayor Randy Penn will throw the switch at 5:30 p.m., lighting the Christmas tree at the Englewood Civic Center as a way to kick off the holiday season. DEC. 1: HOLIDAY PARADE The annual holiday parade will step off at 10 a.m. and will travel along Englewood Parkway make to the Englewood Civic Center. After the parade, a number of school choirs and musical groups will perform on the stage of the
amphitheater. There is no charge or admission. DEC. 7: “NUTCRACKER IN A NUTSHELL: The Dawson/Wallace Dance Project will do two performances of the Nutcracker in a Nutshell at Hampden Hall, which is on the second floor of the Englewood Civic Center. One performance is at 6 p.m. and the second performance is at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for
children. DEC. 8: BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Englewood’s annual Breakfast with Santa will be held at 8:30 a.m. at the Malley Senior Recreation Center, 3380 S. Lincoln St. Tickets are $4.50 for 2- to 10-yearolds and $5.50 for 11-year-old and older, including adults. The ticket includes an all-you-can-eat breakfast plus children will receive a free gift and have their photo taken with Santa.
Happy Holidays FROM COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA
Holiday Events and Happenings
Stop By For Cider & Cookies Evenings and Weekends Starting Friday, Nov 23
Thanksgiving Dinner Serving our four course dinner menu and Traditional Turkey Dinner from 11AM – 8:30 PM
Classic Cocktails and Frank Sinatra 5:50 PM – 7:30 PM Listen to the sounds of Frank Sinatra, performed by Danny Wein, in our Tavern every Wednesday night until December 26th. Classic cocktails, appetizers and happy hour specials will be available.
Holiday Afternoon Tea
• Trees & Greenery direct from the Grower • Gorgeous Poinsettias • Truly Unique Ornaments and Decor • A Style For Every Taste • Featuring Colorado Products • Rosy Rings & McCall’s Candles • Thymes & Caren Lotions • Willow Tree Collectibles • Patience Brewster Collectible Ornaments • Galileo Thermometers, Sand Timers • RedNeck & Red Solo Cups for adult beverages • Great Dog Toys • Kids Corner •& Much Much More
Loose leaf tea, freshly baked scones, tartlets, finger sandwiches and sweets are the perfect combination to bring together a group of friends over the holidays. Served every Saturday in December from 11 AM – 2PM. Reservations are required.
Sunday Champagne Brunch Every Sunday from 10AM – 2PM. Includes a glass of champagne or mimosa, fresh fruit, homemade pastries, and your choice of entrée from the menu.
What the Dickens? Christmas Carolers! Every Monday night in December (including Christmas Eve!), Christmas Carolers will be strolling through the dining room singing classic carols.
Christmas Eve Serving Lunch from 10:30AM – 2PM and Dinner Starting at 4PM
Christmas Day Serving our four course dinner menu from 11AM – 8:30PM
New Year’s Eve Join us for dinner on New Year’s Eve! Serving our four course dinner menu and a champagne toast at midnight. Reservations highly recommended.
Bring in or Mention This Ad to Enter our Gift Card Drawing on December 20!
Gift Cards Purchase a gift card for your family and friends this holiday season and give the gift of outstanding food, service and ambiance! You may order on-line, on the phone, or in person.
During the Holidays, Dinner Nightly Starting at 4:30PM Lunch: Monday-Saturday 10:30AM-2PM
...And You Can Say You Got It At Jared's!
Jared's Nursery Gift and Garden 10500 W. Bowles Ave. (Just W of Kipling)
1630 8th Street • Golden www.thebriarwoodinn.com
303-279-3121
303-979-6022 www.JaredsGarden.com Hours: 9-8 Mon-Fri, 9-5 Sat & Sun
•
Jaredsgc@jaredsgarden.com
•
Follow Us on Facebook and Twitter
PAGE 8 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > NOVEMBER 22, 2012
HIGHLANDS RANCH HOLIDAY EVENTS
DEC. 1: HOLIDAY CELEBRATION AT THE MANSION Santa Claus will arrive on a fire engine and children can enjoy visits and a great photo opportunity. Guests can also enjoy holiday music performed by local choirs, children’s reindeer games, letters to Santa, entertaining holiday characters and more. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9900 Ranch Road. DEC.5: HOLIDAY HOUSE DECORATING CONTEST If you enjoy decorating your home’s exterior and want to have some festive fun with your neighbors, submit a digital photo of your holiday home at www.hrcaonline.org/ contests no later than 5 p.m. Dec. 5. Addresses and photos of participating homes will be posted on a map on the website and the community will be asked to vote on the best houses between 5:30-8 p.m. Dec. 1014. Wells Fargo will award the top three houses prizes of $200, $100 and $50. For more information, call 303-471-8821. DEC. 7-9: CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH Enjoy an evening of music, dance and drama celebrating the Christmas season as Cherry Hills Community Church hosts four performances of its holiday on-stage classic. Performances are at 7 p.m. Dec. 7-8, 6 p.m. Dec. 9 and a special family matinee will be at 3 p.m. Dec. 8. Tickets are available at www.chcc.org and range from $6-15.
DEC. 7: HOMETOWN HOLIDAY AND TREE LIGHTING Who says you can’t capture that hometown feeling in the ‘burbs? Hometown Holiday gives Highlands Ranchers a chance to come together with friends and neighbors and share in the spirit of the season. A winter wonderland will come alive at Town Center South with the annual tree lighting at 5 p.m., caroling, holiday goodies and Santa until 7:30. For more information, please visit www.hrcaonline.org. Admission is free. DEC. 7: SPARKLING WINE TASTING Don’t miss out on the chance to mingle, browse for books, enjoy live holiday music and sip on some sparkling wine. The Highlands WineSeller and HRCA are partnering up at Tattered Cover Book Store, 9315 Dorchester Street in Town Center South, to put on the annual holiday tasting spectacular. All proceeds benefit the Highlands Ranch Scholarship Fund. Advance tickets are $17 for HRCA members and $20 for guests, or pay $20 on the day of the event if it isn’t sold out. For more information or to purchase tickets call 303791-2500. DEC. 8: HOLIDAY TEDDY BEAR TEA Southridge Recreation Center will be the site of the Teddy Bear Tea from 10:30 a.m.noon. A great chance to create a memory; children will enjoy a tea party with all the trimmings, including cookies, holiday candies, hot cocoa, pinwheel sandwiches and more. After the tea there will be a musi-
cal performance. Tickets are $11 for HRCA members and $15 for guests, $15 on the day of the event if it isn’t sold out. All children must be accompanied by an adult and no children under 2. To purchase tickets call 303-471-8859 or stop in at any of the recreation centers. Southridge is located at 4800 McArthur Ranch Road. DEC. 8: A VISIT FROM SANTA The big guy loves Highlands Ranch, which is why he is coming back from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. He’ll be at the Metro District offices at 62 W. Plaza Drive finding out what all the good kids want for Christmas. Free. DEC. 9: HANUKKAH HAPPENING From 12:25-3:30 p.m. at Northridge Recreation Center, 8801 S. Broadway, there will be great food, spinning dreidels, stories, games and more in a celebration of religion and culture. For details, please call Jewish Community leader Beth Horwitz at 303-4706652. DEC. 14: SHOWTIME AT SOUTHRIDGE HOLIDAY CONCERT The Highlands Ranch Swing Shift Band performs holiday classics from 7-8 p.m. at Southridge Recreation Center, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road. Advance tickets are $7 for HRCA member and $10 for guests. All tickets are $10 the day of the event if it doesn’t sell out. To purchase anthrope tickets visit any recreation center or call 303471-8859. a brand communications agency
DEC. 15: BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Santa needs to fuel up before his big night and figures hat better way to do it than enjoy some pancakes and crafts with kids in the Ranch. There’ll be sleigh-loads of cheer and a small gift for every good little boy and girl. Advance tickets are $9 for children and $11 for adults. From 9-10:30 a.m. at Eastridge Recreation Center, 9568 University Blvd. To purchase tickets, visit any HRCA recreation center or call 303-471-8859. Tickets will be $11 at the door for all. DEC. 15: A CANTO DEO CHRISTMAS A sacred choral music Christmas concert for the whole family. Accompanied by a full orchestra, Canto Deo sings Christmas carols and music from around the world. Children from the audience even get to help conduct the orchestra at the end of the show. For more information, call 303-797-6878 or 720-903-6945. Showtime is at 2 p.m. at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 9203 S. University Blvd. DEC. 15-16: WINTER MARKET Take a break from the frantic hustle and bustle of the holidays and the busy malls. From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. each day, bundle up and swing by Town Center North to enjoy the HRCA’s Winter Market with local Colorado farmers and crafters. There will be plenty of homemade items that make for great gift ideas and foods for that special gift or holiday meal. You’re sure to fund something that willGACC make warm and inviting for Colorado your - Christkindlholiday Market - Logo Designs Font: Cloister Black family and friends.
Holidays in Highlands Ranch
German Ame
Commerce Of
n Chamber rica
defining the human element in brand communications
C ol o ra d o
Denver
nd Chris t ki
l Market
nd 2012 ber 22 , rd - Decem 3 2 N ovember
Denver
a nt h ro p e, L LC | 2 5 2 2 Ze n o b i a St re e t | d e nve r, co 8 0 2 1 2 | p : 3 0 3 . 5 1 3 . 2 3 4 2 | w w w. a nt h ro p - e.co m
Christkindl Market Skyline Park at 16th St. Mall and Arapahoe
Nov. 23 - Dec. 22 Sun - Wed 11am - 7pm Thurs - Sat 11am - 9pm German and European food, crafts, music and dancing Food and drink specials WWW.DENVERCHRISTKINDLMARKET.COM
Sponsored by:
NOVEMBER 22, 2012 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > PAGE 9
LITTLETON HOLIDAY EVENTS
NOV. 23: 29TH ANNUAL CANDLELIGHT WALK AND TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY All along Main Street in Historic Downtown Littleton. The 29th edition of this Littleton tradition begins at 5 p.m. and will be a festive evening of holiday lights and music for the whole family. Santa Claus and his sleigh will make their way down Main Street magically illuminating each block with more than one million lights on the trees and buildings. He’ll be joined by holiday revelers holding candles and flashlights. NOV. 24: MAKE DREAM CATCHERS Visit Bemis Library to learn how easy and fun it is to make a traditional American Indian dream catcher. Jessica Bordeaux, a Lakota Indian, will host two workshops from 1011:30 a.m. and 1-2:30 p.m. Classes are open to adults and children 10 and older accompanied by an adult. Cost is $5 for materials. Call 303-795-3961 to register. DEC. 1: OLD TIME FIDDLING From 2-3 p.m., visit Sophie’s Place at Bemis Library to hear holiday and fiddling melodies by members of the Colorado Old Time Fiddlers Association, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting the uniquely American style of music known as Old Time Fiddling throughout the Rocky Mountain area (www.coloradofiddlers.org). For more information, call 303-795-3961. DEC. 15: ANDREWS SISTERS TRIBUTE From 2-3 p.m., celebrate the season at Bemis Library with a hilarious romp through the 1940s radio airwaves with one of Denver’s best Andrews Sisters tribute acts. Reveille 3 returns to present a radio show that featuring songs from the ‘40s, homemaking and fashion tips for women supporting the troops, and humorous stories. For more information, call 303-795-3961.
DEC. 19: A SCANDINAVIAN CHRISTMAS From 2-3 p.m., visit Bemis Library to hear Norwegian Eldon Halingstad relate stories about traditional Scandinavian Christmas customs. He will talk about holiday foods, Christmas-tree customs and family holiday ac-
tivities. Halingstad has been a professional speaker and storyteller for more than 30 years and is internationally known for his educational programs (www.halingstad.com). For more information, call 303-795-3961.
Away we go
DEC. 9: HOLIDAY EVENING AT LIBRARY AND MUSEUM The Friends of the Littleton Library and Museum and the Littleton Historical Museums popular Holiday’s Evening will be held from 5:30-8 p.m. The gentle glow of luminarias and the crackle of bonfires light the way to wagon rides and carolers, and gingerbread cookies, corn bread and hot cider warm you. The 1860s and 1890s farms will be authentically decorated for the holidays, and interpreters will portray life during Littleton’s early history. The mules will have their bells on and be ready for wagon rides, and Santa is looking forward to visiting with the children. Call 303-795-3950 for hours and ticket prices. THROUGH NEW YEAR’S: A HUDSON CHRISTMAS New surprises await as Hudson Gardens & Event Center unveils “A Hudson Christmas,” a new walk-through holiday-light display heralding the wonder of the Christmas season. As the sun goes down, the gardens bloom in a festive holiday display, illuminating a 30-acre blanket of light. Horse-drawn wagons journey amid the twinkling backdrop, highlighting the beauty of the gardens in winter. Event runs on select evenings through New Year’s Day. Visit www.hudsongardens.org for more information. DEC. 5, 11, 12, 13: SCHOOL CONCERTS Littleton Public Schools welcomes the public to holiday concerts at its three high schools: Dec. 5 at Heritage, Dec. 11 and 13 at Littleton, Dec. 12 and 13 at Arapahoe, all at 7 p.m. For more information, call 303-347-3300 or visit www.littletonpublicschools.net. Through Dec. 31: Fitness discounts — South Suburban offers 10 percent off recreation center passes and punch cards, personaltraining sessions, facials and massages for the holiday season. Offer is good through
Sledders enjoy fresh snow in Littleton’s Carbone Park last winter. File photo DEC. 31 AT DOUGLAS H. BUCK COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER at 2004 W. Powers Ave. in Littleton, Goodson Recreation Center at 6315 S. University Blvd. in Centennial, and Lone Tree Center at 10249 Ridgegate Circle in Lone Tree. For more information, call 303-347-5999. DEC. 1: BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Children 10 and younger can join Santa at Buck Recreation Center at 8:30 or 9:30 a.m. for a pancake breakfast and photos with Santa. Tickets are $5, or $4 for residents. For more information, call 303-797-8787. DEC. 1: HOLIDAY ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW Play Santa and get your holiday shopping done at the popular 26th annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Show at Goodson Recreation Center from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. There’s always a wide array of interesting items for sale: jewelry, art, accessories, pottery, soaps, candles and more. Admission, parking and gift wrapping are all free.
DEC. 1: MAIN STREET DEALS The Historic Downtown Littleton Merchants’ Annual Holiday Shopping Evening is 5-9 p.m. Downtown merchants will have special offers and attractions. Contact Helen Rice at 303-730-8521 for more information. DEC. 21-22: FREE HOLIDAY ICE SHOWS There are two chances to see South Suburban Ice Arena’s free annual holiday ice show featuring local skaters: Dec. 21 at 6 p.m., and Dec. 22 at 3:15 p.m. No reservations are needed and admission is free with the donation of canned or packaged food to benefit Inter-Faith Community Services. For more information, 303-798-7881 or www. sspr.org. Weekends: Santa visits Littleton — Santa visits Littleton every Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m., starting Nov. 24. Santa’s Village is on the west side of Reinke Brothers, near the intersection of Prince and Main streets. There is no charge to visit Santa, but plenty of photo ops. For more information, call 303-795-5006 .
LONE TREE HOLIDAY EVENTS Old-fashioned hot chocolate Dec. 4: Arts program Seedlings, the Lone Tree Arts Center’s familyfriendly arts program, presents “Abrakadoole” at 11 a.m. Children and parents can make their own holiday craft items. All materials will be supplied. Admission is $3. For more information, call 720-509-1000 or visit www.lonetreeartscenter. org Dec. 11-16: John Denver songs The Lone Tree Arts Center presents a John Denver Holiday Concert, with several performances. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. A cast of three singers and four musicians deliver such Denver holiday hits as “Christmas for Cowboys” and “Aspenglow” in addition to standards like “Annie’s Song” and “Rocky Mountain High” and several seasonal classics. Tickets start at $29. For more information, call
720-509-1000 or visit www.lonetreeartscenter. org Dec. 18-23: Home for the Holidays The Lone Tree Arts Center presents Home for the Holidays. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. The original, family-friendly production features favorite holiday music from past and present. Tickets start at $29. For more information, call 720-509-1000 or visit www.lonetreeartscenter. org. Dec. 24, 26, 27, 28, 31: Day camp The Lone Tree Recreation Center hosts Club Lone Tree over winter break for children from kindergarten to age 10. The supervised day camp is open from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Register online and find more information at www.sspr.org
- 3 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate - 1 1/2 cups of water - Dash of salt - 4 1/2 cups of milk
1
Heat chocolate and water in 1 1/2 quart saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth.
2
Stir in sugar and salt. Heat to boiling, and then reduce heat to low. Simmer, uncovered 4 minutes stirring constantly. Stir in milk. Heat just until hot (do not boil, because skin will form on top).
3
Beat with hand beater until foamy, or stir until smooth. Serve. (c) 2012 King Features Synd. Inc.
PAGE 10 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > NOVEMBER 22, 2012
PARKER HOLIDAY EVENTS NOV. 23: MAYOR’S HOLIDAY LIGHTING CELEBRATION Experience the magic and join the Parker Chorale at 6 p.m. at O’Brien Park for the “Nutcracker of Parker,” by Colorado School of Dance and a special choral performance from Chaparral High School’s top choir, Con Brio, followed by a town sing-along of “Silent Night” before the park lighting. Concessions include coffee, hot chocolate, roasted nuts and light-up toys. Free carriage rides will be available at the park and around downtown Parker starting at 6:30 p.m. Event-goers are encouraged to park in downtown Parker as the O’Brien parking lot will be closed for the event. For more information, visit www.parkeronline.org/mayorsholidaylighting. DEC. 7-16: “IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE” LIVE RADIO PLAY A beloved American holiday classic comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. The shows are at 7 p.m. Dec. 7, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 8, 3 p.m. Dec. 9, 7 p.m. Dec. 14, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 15, and 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Parker Mainstreet Center, 19650 E. Mainstreet. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children and can be purchased online. DEC. 10: HOLIDAY MARKET AT LINCOLN MEADOWS The Holiday Market at Lincoln Meadows
combines holiday shopping, music and merriment, as 30 local vendors will set up shop from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Lincoln Meadows Senior Living facility at 10001 S. Oswego. Attendees to the free event will see a performance by the original Dickens Carolers, get pictures with Santa and eat s’mores by the open fire. DEC. 8: PARKER CHRISTMAS CARRIAGE PARADE The Parker Christmas Carriage Parade, a valued annual tradition in downtown Parker, will be at noon. The all-equestrian parade is made up of dozens of horse-drawn carriages, wagons, surreys and stagecoaches from across Colorado, all dressed up for the occasion. With a different theme each year, the parade continues to grow in size and is a staple event for Christmas in Parker. It is combines with two holiday markets, a petting zoo and pony rides, ice sculpting and visiting time and pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The event is open to equine entries and marching bands only. If you’re without a horse, many entries hire horse and carriage companies to escort them though the parade. For event information, call 303-805-3253. DEC. 31: NEW YEAR’S EVE, NEW YORK STYLE The PACE Renaissance Guild invites residents to the Parker Arts, Culture & Events
Horses of course
The Parker Christmas Carriage Parade entries include riding groups, carriages and marching bands. File photo Center for New Year’s Eve, New York Style at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 31. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. with a tour around a mock Times Square. Food, a full premium bar and signature New York Style cocktails are available. The theater will be transformed to Times Square to watch the ball drop live from New York City, culminating with the first of two champagne toasts to ring in 2013. Then,
dance the night away to Phat Daddy, a highenergy band consisting of Denver’s top nightclub talent and showroom performers. Ring in the New Year at midnight with the second champagne toast of the evening followed by fireworks. Dancing continues as long as the party-goers are rockin’ the dance floor. Tickets went on sale in early fall and sold out in October.
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
NOV. 23: “A HUDSON CHRISTMAS” opens at Hudson Gardens and Event Center, 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton. Open on selected evenings through Jan. 1. Lighted, decorated trees on 30 acres, horse-drawn wagons, fountains and more. Hudsongardens.org. NOV. 23: “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” plays at the Aurora Fox Theater, 9900 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora, Nov. 23 to Dec. 16 (303-7391970, aurorafox.org). The production will move to the PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker, on Dec. 20-23. 303-805-6800, PACEcenteronline.org.
NOV. 23: “IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A RADIO PLAY” is presented by Goodness! Gracious! Productions of Douglas County, at the Sherman Events Center, 1770 Sherman St., Denver, on weekends. NOV. 24: “THE NUTCRACKER” presented by Colorado Ballet at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver Performing Arts Center, with many performances through Dec. 24. Tickets: $28 to $154, coloradoballet.org or 303837-8888 ext 2. NOV. 27: “MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET,
THE MUSICAL” at Arvada Center, 6901 Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada. Plays through Dec. 23. Arvadacenter.org, 720-898-7200.
NOV. 30: “A CHRISTMAS CAROL,” presented by Front Range Theatre Company of Castle Rock at Generations Church, corner of Third and Perry, Castle Rock, weekends (7 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays; 5 p.m. Sundays). Directed by Sara Crandell. Tickets: frontrangetheatrecompany.org, 866-879-7373. NOV. 30: “TRAIL OF LIGHTS — LIGHTING UP THE COUNTRY” at Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield , nightly 5:30-9:30 p.m. through Jan. 1. Lights, skating rink, music, treats, decorated historic homestead. Located at 8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton, just south of C-470 off Wadsworth. Denverbotanicgardens.org. NOV. 30: “BLOSSOMS OF LIGHT” at Denver Botanic Gardens on York Street, Denver, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. daily. More than a million lights, some synchronized to music. Information and tickets: botanicgardens.org. DEC. 1-2: “THE NUTCRACKER” presented by Littleton Youth Ballet and Littleton Dance Academy at 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 1 and 2 p.m.
Dec. 2 at Colorado Heights University Theater, 3001 S. Federal Blvd., Denver (formerly Loretto Heights). Tickets $14 to $21, 303794-6694, littletondanceacademy.org.
DEC. 6: “HOLIDAY BRASS” with the Denver Municipal Band, 7:30 p.m., PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker. 303-8056800, PACECenteronline.org. DEC. 7: “CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD” with the Littleton Symphony at 7:30 p.m., Littleton United Methodist Church, 5894 S. Datura St., Littleton. Tickets: $15/$12, free under 21. 303-933-6824, littletonsymphony.org. DEC. 7-8: PARKER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND PARKER CHORALE CONCERT, 7:30 p.m. both nights. Pace Center 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker. 303-805-6800, PACECenteronline.org. DEC. 7: “JOY TO THE WORLD, A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION” by the Lakewood Symphony, Rocky Mountain Ringers and Lakewood Stake Choir at 7:30 p.m., Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 6465 W. Jewell Ave., Lakewood. Donations of unwrapped gifts for children ages 1-12.
DEC. 9: HOLIDAY EVENING AT THE FARM, Littleton Museum farms, 6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Farolitos and bonfires light the grounds, music, treats. Tickets $7-$10, at Bemis Library/Litleton Museum. 303-795-3950. DEC. 11-16: JOHN DENVER HOLIDAY CONCERTS at Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree. 720-509-1000, lonetreeartscenter.org DEC. 13-16: “NUTCRACKER OF PARKER” at PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker. Performances at 7 p.m. Dec. 13-16; 2 p.m. Dec. 15. 303-805-6800, PACECenteronline.org. DEC. 15-23: “THE NUTCRACKER” by David Taylor, presented by Dawson|Wallace Dance Project at Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Pkwy., Lakewood. Tickets, 303-987-7845, Lakewood.org/CulturalCenter. DEC. 18-23: “HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS” is a new production at Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree. Information and tickets: 720-509-1000, lonetreeartscenter.org.
NOVEMBER 22, 2012 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > PAGE 11
Holiday entertaining is focused on food
By Family Features
H
Host a holiday party that’s simple and festive with a combination of pre-made and homemade delights from the celebration experts at Wilton. For starters, a cookie pan does double duty for holiday-shaped homemade Crispy Cheese Crackers. Serve these aromatic rosemary treats, made into Christmas trees, snowmen and stockings, alongside a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables and made-fromscratch fire-roasted jalapeño dip. “Guests will think you spent hours baking in the kitchen when you wow them with a seasonal selection of hand-decorated gingerbreads,” says Nancy Siler, vice president of consumer affairs at Wilton. Easy to assemble with all the trimmings included, there’s a ready-to-decorate gingerbread kit to fit any yuletide gathering. Complete with pre-baked gingerbread, each kit contains decorating accessories like candies and icings to personalize your own mini village, Christmas tree, gingerpop cookies and more. For another fun twist on a traditional gingerbread house, Siler recommends getting the kids involved. They’ll love the marshmallow-y Holiday House Treat made of cinnamon toasted oats cereal. Once the house is built, watch the kids decorate their yummy creation with a variety of gumdrops, licorice, icings and candies. To cater to a more so-
Courtesy of Family Features phisticated palate, Siler suggests Salted Caramel Bacon Cordial Cups. A lavish blend of vanilla pudding, crispcooked bacon and whipped cream is flavored with caramel ice cream topping and piped into edible, dark cocoa Candy Melt cordial cups. They’re bite-sized holiday bliss. Don’t forget eggnog. This year, give your favorite prepared eggnog a chocolate kick and serve Eggnog Hot Chocolate garnished with peppermint Candy Curls. For more holiday recipe project and decorating ideas, or to purchase gingerbread kits, visit www.wilton. com.
Decorating Gel, Sprinkles, Colored Sugars, Icing Decorations and other favorite candy Prepare Wilton Stand-Up House Pan with vegetable pan spray. Place cereal in large bowl. In large saucepan, melt butter; add marshmallows, ginger and cinnamon. Cook and stir constantly until melted. Pour over cereal and mix well. Spread cereal mixture into prepared pan. When cool to touch, remove from pan; secure to foil-wrapped cake board with icing. Decorate as desired with icing, sprinkles, sugars, icing decorations and candy.
Holiday House Treat Makes about 12 servings -6 cups cinnamon-flavored toasted oats cereal -4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter -1 bag (10 ounces) mini marshmallows -1-1/2 teaspoons ground ginger -1 teaspoon ground cinnamon -Assorted Tube Icing,
Crispy Cheese Crackers Makes 16 to 20 crackers -1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened -3/4 cup (about 2 ounces) finely grated Asiago cheese -1 ounce (about 1/4 cup) toasted pine nuts, finely chopped -1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary -1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
BELLAGIO NAILS & SPA
Many Different Types of Pedicures To Suit Your Needs!
Acrylics Pedicures & Manicures Gels & Silk Wraps Pink & White Waxing Beautiful nails make the perfect holiday gift Purchase a $35 gift card and get upgraded to a $45 gift card Offer Valid on Gift Cards Only
9231 E. Lincoln Ave. #700 Lone Tree, CO 80124 (In the Safeway Center)
303-790-9088
Walk Ins Welcome! • Open 7 Days • Complimentary Beverage
40% OFF Any One Service Mon-Wed Only Exp. 12/15/12
20% OFF Any One Service Thurs-Sun Only Exp. 12/15/12
Permanent Makeup Eyeliner or Eye Brows
$250 Eyelashes
Only $150
-1/2 teaspoon salt -1/4 teaspoon black pepper -1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare Holiday Cookie Pan with vegetable pan spray. In medium bowl, beat butter, cheese, pine nuts, rosemary, garlic powder, salt and pepper with electric mixer until creamy and well combined. Add flour; beat until mixture looks sandy and holds together when squeezed in your hand. Press into prepared pan, filling cavities 1/2 full. Bake 13 to 15 minutes or until edges are light golden brown. Cool in pan 5 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely. Eggnog Hot Chocolate Makes about 4 servings -2 cups milk -2 cups prepared eggnog -1 cup Dark Cocoa Candy Melts Candy -1 teaspoon vanilla extract -Whipped cream -Candy Curls In large saucepan, cook milk and eggnog on medium heat until the mixture is hot; turn off heat. Whisk in Candy Melts candy and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until candy is melted and mixture is smooth. Pour into mugs; garnish with Candy Curls. Fire Roasted Jalapeño Onion Dip Makes about 1-3/4 cups dip -4 jalapeño peppers -1 package (5.7 ounces) onion soup mix -1 cup sour cream -1/2 cup mayonnaise
Home for the holidays at
Preheat broiler. Place peppers on nonstick cookie pan; broil, turning at least once, 6 to 7 minutes or until blackened. Let stand 10 minutes. Remove stem and seeds; coarsely chop. In large bowl, stir together onion soup mix, sour cream and mayonnaise. Fold in peppers. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Serve with cucumber and zucchini slices, celery, carrot sticks, sliced bell peppers and other favorite vegetables. Note: For spicier dip, include seeds from peppers. Salted Caramel Bacon Cordial Cups Makes about 24 filled cordial cups -1-1/2 cups Dark Cocoa Candy Melts Candy -3 containers (3.2 ounces each) vanilla prepared pudding -1/2 cup finely chopped crisp-cooked bacon -1 tablespoon caramel ice cream topping plus additional for drizzling
-1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped -Sea salt Fill cordial cup candy mold 1/3 full with melted candy. Using a decorator brush, paint the candy up the sides of each mold to the top edge. Coat mold so that no light can be seen through the shell. Refrigerate until firm, about 5 minutes. Repeat if needed. Carefully remove shells from mold. In medium bowl, combine pudding, bacon and 1 tablespoon ice cream topping; mix until thoroughly combined. Fold in whipped cream. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Using tip #33, pipe filling into candy cordial cups. Drizzle with additional ice cream topping and sprinkle with sea salt. Follow instructions on package of each kit: —Deluxe Gingerbread Kit —Gingerbread Tree Kit —Gingerbread Boy Cookie Decorating Kit —Gingerpops Cookie Kit —Gingerbread Mini Village Kit
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Joe Skalisky
Best of the Best Real Estate Agent 2004 thru 2012
www.STROHRANCH.com www.BestofParker.com
303-916-7000
Expert in Douglas & Elbert County Foreclosures, Short Sales, Relocations, Investments & More
Thank you for voting BEST of the Best again!
I will list your home for sale for only 2%! Handmade In Golden, CO
Skadoodles!
Available in 10 Incredible Flavors!
Unique gifts, local products, delightful gourmet products, and personal ser vice that will help you get that gift list checked off... Bring this ad for
20% OFF one item!
(1 coupon per visit please)
521 Wilcox St. (behind Augustine Grill)
Castle Rock, CO 80104
303-660-9993
...all with no stress!
www.somuchmorescampfiredesserts.com
Perfect for Gift-Giving or Narcissistic Self-Indulgence Delicious over your wood fire pit or in the microwave, too!
Available Exclusively at: Golden Sweets 1299 Washington Ave. | Golden Chipeta 5626 Olde Wadsworth | Arvada Jared’s Gift Garden & Nursery 10500 W. Bowles Ave | Littleton White Fence Farm 6263 W. Jewell | Lakewood
15% OFF your purchase of $50 or more
One per client. Available only with coupon. May not be combined with any other offers. Expires 10/31/12.
Home Decor • Local Artists Unique Gifts • Local Food Items
www.ChipetaOfGolden.com 303-238-0133 5626 Olde Wadsworth
PAGE 12 > HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS > NOVEMBER 22, 2012
HOLIDAY SHOWS
! E L A S Y A D I BLACK FR ts ke c i T m u i m e 4 Pr r $200 Fo
Show y a d i l o H r e To Eith for $170 Tues –Thurs) (4 Tickets
Hours Box Office6pm 8am –
John Denver Ho12liday Concert December 11 – December 16 , 20
ny Wheetman Created by Randal Myler and Dan Management Corporation val Festi of Thau ld Haro by Produced
mber Dan Wheetman and Former John Denver band me team up to bring you this noted director Randal Myler sweet, simple promise. classic holiday concert full of nvers’ house in Aspen, days Transport yourself to the De Denver and Wheetman before Christmas in 1975, as their neighbors and friends. host an acoustic concert for s as well as standards, this Featuring Denver’s holiday hit at this magical time of year concert harkens the legend . s and, of course, great music through first-hand anecdote
Home for the H12olidays December 18 – December 23, 20 Produced by Starkey Theatrix
holiday extravaganza! Home for the Holidays is a ectaculars from New York Reminiscent of Christmas Sp t showcases top Denver talen to London, this performance y rke Sta Sheryl Renee, Christine Mary Louise Lee, The Jerseys, tor Derek Evilsizor. You’ll and Frank Sinatra impersona gh every decade from the experience the holidays throu ss, a drumline, break dancers 1940s to today. Big band bra this a new holiday show with and much, much more make entire family will love. a touch of nostalgia that the
C A L L O R C L I C K TO DAY
720.509.1000
www.LoneTreeArtsCenter.org
10075 Commons Street Lone Tree, CO 80124 SCFD