Winter Memories
The holiday season is always packed with gift shopping, decorations, and planning. It’s easy to lose sight of the memories we’re creating. My mom was always our own Mrs. Claus, making Christmas an elaborate, perfect display—from tree ornaments to perfectly tied bows. Now that I host, as the oldest (and slightly stubborn) child, I like to turn it up a notch when she visits. My home is decked out with a seven-foot homemade nutcracker, oversized ornaments, and hilariously tacky family photos in matching pajamas and ugly sweaters. It’s all a bit ridiculous—but her eyerolls quickly turn to smiles, and her heart is full.
My point is, go all out! Make those fun, over-the-top memories because they’ll last. This holiday season in Centennial is full of adventure, warmth, and a spirit of giving. As we wrap up the year, I hope this publication has brought you the best of our community and continues to bring in years to come. The Giving season is a time when generosity and kindness take center stage. It’s about more than exchanging gifts—it's a season of sharing time, resources, and compassion with others. Whether it's donating to local charities, supporting small businesses, or volunteering in the community, this season is a chance to make a meaningful impact. It’s a reminder that true joy comes from giving back and strengthening the bonds that unite us. As the days grow colder, the warmth of giving brings light to our homes and neighborhoods, highlighting the power of community, gratitude, and the spirit of togetherness. Check out our Article on Nourish Meals on Wheels or How City Lifestyle is helping give back to Families in need.
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for special prizes and giveaways from our partners. I love hearing from you, so keep sharing your favorite local spots and ideas for what you’d like to see. Let’s celebrate Community in Centennial together!
MEGAN DE LA ROSA , PUBLISHER @CENTENNIALCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Megan De La Rosa | megan.delarosa@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Danielle VonFeldt | danielle.vonfeldt@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Danielle VonFeldt | danielle.vonfeldt@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Valerie Bianculli, Michelle W. Parnell, Danielle VonFeldt
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Noah Berg- Walnut Street Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
city scene
1-3: Centennial's Mural Celebration-Celebrating the completion of the mural project with Artist Winner, Katie Curcio! 4: Publisher Megan, Publication Director Danielle VonFeldt, Krista Simonson @DenverSouthStrong, and Zoemi Romero Owner @CencalliTaqueria 5: Michelle, Owner of Infamous Physique Open House and Client Appreciation Party 6: Megan DeLaRosa, Publisher of Centennial City Lifestyle and Michelle Johnson 7: Beautiful Face and Body's owners Nicole and Olga, along side Mariah Medina with MAM Photography
business monthly
South Suburban Honored as Grand Plaque National Gold Medal Award Recipient
South Suburban received the 2024 Grand Plaque National Gold Medal Award, a premier recognition that celebrates excellence in the park and recreation industry. This is the highest recognition a parks and recreation organization can achieve and is awarded to only one agency in the country in each of the population-based award divisions.
Holiday Gifting Made Simple: Melabébé!
Looking for the perfect local gift this holiday season? Melabébé, founded right here in Centennial, offers a Moisture Care Bundle Box—buy 3, get 1 free with code Centennial ! These make fantastic stocking stuffers, ensuring everyone stays moisturized all winter long. Give a gift that’s both thoughtful and supportive of local business. Perfect for holiday giving and treating loved ones! From Baby to Beyond this product will be a family favorite!
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
Colorado Eye Consultants welcomes board-certified and ASOPRS fellowship trained ophthalmologist, Dr. Carl Rebhun, specializing in Oculofacial Plastic Surgery. His extensive training has helped him to establish his reputation as a highly skillful surgeon who utilizes the latest and most innovative techniques, to obtain exceptional, natural looking results. This approach, along with a compassionate bedside manner and dedication to helping others, has led Dr. Rebhun to help his patients achieve their medical and cosmetic goals through both surgical and non-surgical procedures. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (303) 730-0404. 1501 West Mineral Avenue | Suite 100 | Littleton, CO 80120 ColoradoEyeConsultants.com
THE IMPACT OF NOURISH MEALS ON WHEELS
Nourishing Hearts and Homes
ARTICLE BY VALERIE BIANCULLI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOURISH MEALS ON WHEELS
Nourish Meals on Wheels has been serving the South Metro Denver community for more than five decades, originating from a heartfelt effort by founder Virginia Baker in 1968. What began as a neighborly gesture of delivering meals from her kitchen has evolved into a vital service. Executive Director Nancy Falk highlights the purpose of Nourish: “Our mission is to enrich the lives of older (60+) and homebound adults. We provide nutritious meals and services that promote dignity, well-being and independence.” This mission resonates with their goal to help clients age in place while maintaining their quality of life.
The need for Nourish's services is significant. "Every day, 1 in 8 older adults in the U.S. are experiencing hunger, and 1 in 4 face social isolation," says Falk. Recent findings from the Surgeon General, stating that social isolation can have health impacts equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, further emphasize the importance of not only providing nutritious food but also addressing social isolation. Nourish does both by delivering meals alongside companionship, fulfilling two critical needs simultaneously.
With a dedicated team of more than 600 volunteers, the program delivers scratch-made meals to clients' doors Monday through Friday, serving as both a source of nutrition and social interaction. "The volunteers are bringing food and friendship," says Falk, emphasizing the personal touch that sets the program apart. Clients receive a piece of cake on their birthdays, and unique treats are added to bring extra joy on holidays and special occasions. Volunteers become like family to clients,
offering meaningful conversation and the reassurance that someone truly cares by checking in on them.
The service goes beyond just weekday meal deliveries. On Wednesdays, clients receive a package of five easy-prep breakfast items to enjoy throughout the week, and on Fridays, freshly made frozen meals for the weekend, ensuring that nutritional needs are met seven days a week. There is even an option for a monthly grocery delivery of shelf-stable pantry goods. For clients with pets, this includes dog or cat food, ensuring that furry companions are also cared for.
Despite the tremendous impact, the program faces increasing demand. Nourish currently delivers an average of 700 hot meals a day. To keep up, seven new delivery routes have been added over the past year, bringing the total to 49 routes per day. However, more volunteers are needed to continue meeting the growing needs of the community.
The impact of Nourish Meals on Wheels is not just felt by the recipients but also by the volunteers. Many share how fulfilling it is to be part of such a special mission. For clients like 96-year-old Ellen, the service is more than a meal – “Nourish means a healthy meal at least one time a day,” she says – but becomes so much more. Ellen, a longtime poker player, enjoys chatting with her volunteers about the game, demonstrating how these daily interactions provide much-needed connection.
As demand grows, Nourish is always looking for more drivers. If you're interested in getting involved with this meaningful cause, you can visit https://www.nourishmealsonwheels.org/volunteer or donate today.
Mocha Old Fashioned
ARTICLE BY DANIELLE VONFELDT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JPIPER BRANDING & DESIGN AGENCY
Branch & Barrel, Colorado Craft Distillery, Share the Perfect Holiday Spirit
This twist off of a classic Old Fashioned is the perfect cozy cocktail to settle into long holiday nights. With highlights of rich Mocha flavor and a bright, beautiful burst of citrus. Discover more at babdistilling.com
ingredients:
• 2 oz Branch & Barrel Café Miel Bourbon
• .25 oz Demerara Syrup
• 5 Dashes Chocolate Bitters
• Orange Peel for Garnish
directions:
Step 1. Take a sturdy rocks glass and add a large ice cube to it.
Step 2. Add your syrup, your Bourbon and your bitters, stir with a spoon until your glass becomes cold and the ice cube edges begin to soften.
Step 3. Take your orange peel and squeeze it over the glass to express the oils onto your cocktail. Drop the orange peel into the glass and serve!
EVERY SMILE COUNTS
LINKED TO CRAIG, RESTORES SMILES AND FACIAL FUNCTION TO PATIENTS
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOAH BERG
"DR. THOMAS REED HAS THE HEART TO SERVE THIS PATIENT POPULATION."
As part of a deep commitment to patients at Link Dental, Dr. Jean Link continually builds her skill set by learning innovative dental techniques, including complex and trauma-focused dentistry procedures. Because of this advanced training, Jean found herself uniquely equipped to handle a special request that came in 2012.
“I got a phone call from a patient of mine who was recovering from surgery at Craig Hospital,” she shares. “He sort of volunteered my services to one of the physicians he had overheard talking about a patient in need. He told them he was positive his dentist would know how to do what they needed and would be
happy to do it. That’s how Linked to Craig got started.”
Linked to Craig is a nonprofit organization that helps patients identified by Craig Hospital with specific needs to overcome financial and physical barriers to dental care. Through the program, Jean works with patients to address dental disease that is interfering with definitive care, resolve dental issues keeping patients from continuing with rehab and recovery, and provide cosmetic dental care to help patients reenter society.
“For patients who have traumatic spinal cord or brain injury, they need to be able to form words or, depending on the severity
of the injury, ambulate their wheelchair through a straw by using their mouth as a tool,” she explains. “If they are missing teeth, that can be difficult. Being able to help somebody who has had that level of injury is incredibly humbling and meaningful.”
Link Dental’s commitment to the patients, in-house lab, specialized equipment to care for patients with adaptive needs, and technology to safely sedate patients make the practice a perfect fit.
“Dr. Thomas Reed, as the leader of our practice, has a heart to serve this patient population and is committed to continuing and growing this program,” she says. “He has become credentialed at Craig and helps out with hospital assessments to see who needs our care.”
Although Jean donates her time to serve Linked to Craig patients, the practice relies on the community to come alongside and help financially provide for the materials and medications for the procedures. For information on how to support the mission of Linked to Craig, visit LinkedtoCraig.org
SNOWFLAKE {SALT DOUGH} ORNAMENTS
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
OLD TRADITIONS WITH MODERN DAY TRENDS
Making salt dough ornaments is a holiday tradition that we have been doing since I was a kid in the ‘80s, but the process has been around even longer than that! The use of salt dough is as old as dirt, or I guess I should say as old as clay. Even so, salt dough has made a comeback in recent years and for good reason—it only requires three ingredients, and the festive end product will last for years to come. I love that old traditions can live throughout the decades as we find ways to reinvent them with current day trends.
For more DIY’s and seasonal styling ideas, visit silvertoothhome.com . Happy Holidays!
INGREDIENTS
1 cup All Purpose White Flour
½ cup Table Salt
½ cup Water (give or take)
4oz White Acrylic Paint (optional)
STEP-BY-STEP
SUPPLIES NEEDED
• Rolling Pin
• Cookie Cutters (optional)
• Plastic or Metal Straw
• Cookie Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Lettered Stamps
• Acrylic Sealer
• Bakers Twine
• Mix together flour and salt. Add ¼ cup water and paint (if you want a white dough, otherwise leave out).
• Stir to mix. If needed, slowly add more water until you reach a pizza dough consistency. Remove dough from bowl and knead on a floured surface until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Add more flour if too sticky or more water if too dry.
• Take rolling pin and roll dough to ½ to ¼ inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to create snowflake shapes. Use a straw to poke a hole at the top of each snowflake creating a space to thread your twine after baking.
• Place ornaments on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake at 200 degrees for 2 hours until dry. Flip ornaments every 30 minutes to bake faster.
• Once cooled, add decorative touches with lettered stamps, acrylic paint or markers.
• Spray one side of the ornament with an acrylic seal. Let dry then spray the other side.
• Once dried completely, thread twine through the hole. Hang from your tree or add to gift boxes as gift tags.
12201 E Arapahoe Rd Ste A7 Centennial, CO 80112 303-770-3061 www.wehelpdenver.com
make merry MEMORIES
CELEBRATE HOLIDAY CHEER AT GAYLORD ROCKIES
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY GAYLORD ROCKIES RESORT
Holidays are for family, friends, and making memories. Whether bundling up and spending a day walking through a winter wonderland, decorating gingerbread, or singing Christmas carols while enjoying cookies and milk, guests will find it all at Gaylord Rockies Resort near Denver.
Amid dazzling holiday lights, seasonal cuisine, the enchanting Mistletoe Village, a delightful Sweet Shop, and a sleigh-full of Christmas cheer, everyone will experience a Christmas to remember.
From Nov. 22, 2024, through Jan. 1, 2025, Gaylord Rockies will be transformed
into a winter wonderland full of twinkling lights, sparkling trees, and hours of festive entertainment and activities all will enjoy.
After checking into one of the resort’s plush guestrooms, head to ICE! featuring The Polar Express™. This holiday spectacle, kept at 9 degrees and hand carved by artisans from 2 million pounds of brightly colored ice, is back again this season.
In this one-of-a-kind retelling of the modern Christmas classic, guests will see familiar characters, including the children from the train, the conductor, the Hobo, Steamer and Smokey, and Santa, come to life in scenes from the movie. See the North Pole, Santa’s Workshop, the Polar Express itself, and more, all carved from ice.
ICE! isn’t the only festive fun to be had at Gaylord Rockies this season. Holiday activities abound, including photos with Santa, a festive scavenger hunt, gingerbread decorating, and more.
Afterward, discover the magic of the all-new Cirque: Frost, where breathtaking stunts and stunning artistry take center stage. Follow young Jack’s journey to become Jack Frost in this 50-minute spectacle of heartwarming moments and awe-inspiring acrobatics.
This season, there’s no better way to celebrate the holidays than by gathering friends and family at Gaylord Rockies Resort. Learn more and book packages at https://christmasatgaylordrockies .marriott.com/
We Proudly Accept TRICARE for Patients experiencing Depression
DID YOU KNOW?
Veterans are five times more likely to experience major depression (MDD) than civilians? Approximately 3 in 10 veterans with TBI have depression.
TRICARE PRIME
If you have TRICARE
Prime you will need a referral*. Our Veteran Care Coordinator will walk you through the steps.
*referral is for active duty only.
TRICARE
RESERVE & SELECT
If your coverage is TRICARE Reserve or Select, and you are suffering from depression, you do not need a referral. All you need to do is contact our Veteran Care Coordinator, and she will get all your questions answered.
Our clinic is veteran owned and operated
DECEMBER 2024
DECEMBER 3RD
3 Little Birds Aesthetics
Client Appreciation Party
9034 E Easter Pl Ste 201, Centennial, CO 80112 | 4:00 PM
Come Sip, Shop, and Soar at Three Little Birds Aesthetics! Enjoy treats, exclusive discounts, membership specials, and giveaways. Featuring Tox Guy’s expert injectables, Colorado Gems’ custom jewelry, Ella D Esthetics’ spray tans and lashes, and Jess Cain’s skincare. Follow @ threelittlebirdsaesthetics @Toxguyco @ elladesthetics and @Colorado.gems for event updates! Can’t wait to Celebrate!
DECEMBER 6TH
FREE Carriage Rides at The Streets at SouthGlenn
6851 S Gaylord St., Centennial, CO 80122 | 5:00 PM
Enjoy the holiday season as you ride through the festive Streets on a horsedrawn carriage. A perfect addition to a day of shopping or a dinner/movie out. On Friday & Saturday evenings & afternoons through December. Evening rides 5-8 p.m. and afternoon rides 12-3 p.m. Complimentary for SouthGlenn guests. Rides are first come, first served.
DECEMBER 6TH
SOSU Artist Collective Holiday Market at The Streets at SouthGlenn!
SoSu Artist Collective 2154 E Commons Ave Suite 306, Centennial, CO 80122
Celebrate the season with Sosu’s Holiday Art Event! Featuring local artist inspiring showcase of local artwork, perfect for unique gift shopping and supporting the creative community. Dates Friday, 12/6 from 3–8 pm. Saturday, 12/7 from
11am–6pm, Sunday, 12/8 from 11–4. The event wraps up with an additional weekend: Friday, 12/13 from 3–6 and Saturday,12/14 from 11–6.
DECEMBER 7TH
Centennial Jingle Jam
Centennial Civic Park 13050 E Peakview Ave | 1:00 PM
Join us at Centennial Center Park for a festive celebration! Enjoy holiday songs by local school choirs, free cocoa, cookies, and cider, plus family-friendly activities. Santa will make a special appearance, and food trucks and vendors will be on-site. This free event is the perfect way to jingle and jam into the holiday spirit! centennialco.gov/events.
DECEMBER 7TH
Christmas with the K-9s
John Elway Chevrolet, 5200 S Broadway, Englewood, CO 80113 | 1:00 PM
K-9s are making their lists and checking them twice! We assure you they’ve been very, very nice. Their lists include handler-requested items to replace worn equipment and essential safety gear for our hero K-9s. Help support these brave dogs and their handlers this holiday season! Swing by and Show your support. Check out https:// lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/ ZpQTATI for their list
DECEMBER 7TH
First Saturday Open House at ArtWorks, Streets of Southglenn
242 East Commons Ave, Centennial | 4:00 PM
Located in Centennial’s Streets of SouthGlenn, ArtWorks is a lively co-op gallery featuring the talents of 13 local artists. With a variety of art—from paintings and ceramics to fiber pieces—there’s something for everyone. Most items are under $100, making it easy to find a unique, affordable gift for friends and family.
For nearly 160 years, we’ve been helping find answers that matter.
15742 E. Broncos Place • Centennial
3 Beds | 3 Baths | 1,760 sf | $575,000
Magnificently Modern Multi-Level South Suburban Home. The home's modern design is evident in every detail, from the open concept living areas to the sleek, high-quality finishes throughout.
5022
This Georgian style home seamlessly marries timeless elegance such as refinished wood floors, millwork and trim details, with a sparkling new kitchen and four refurbished baths.
14390 E. Marina Drive, 311 • Aurora 2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,380 sf $420,000
Just remodeled from top to bottom by a former custom home builder. The quality is evident. One of the nicest homes available in Heather Gardens, Aurora’s premier 55+ community.
3106
3 Beds | 4 Baths | 2,628 sf $1,375,000
This is a rare opportunity to live directly across from Denver’s largest green space, City Park, in this former model residence with meticulously selected finishes and features.
8060 E. Girard Avenue, Unit 419 • Denver 2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,050 sf $199,000
Hampden East includes on-site management and features an indoor pool, billiard room, and fitness center, offering opportunities for leisure and wellness just steps from your door.
