Search Parker Magazine Dec 2024

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PARKER

COMING EVENTS

Home Decorating Contest

November 9 | 18700 E. Plaza Drive | 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

'Tis the season to spread some holiday cheer! Unleash your creativity, bring some seasonal joy to your friends and neighbors, and enter to be named one of the best decorated homes in Parker! Entries will be accepted online from Friday, Dec. 2 to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13. Judging and voting will take place Dec. 14 to 19

Hometown Christmas Parade

December 7 | Downtown | 10:00 am

This jolly tradition is sure to sleigh your expectations. Wrap up the year with festive floats, marching bands, and a special guest appearance by Santa himself! Don’t miss out on this merry event that’s sure to make your heart grow three sizes! Let’s get ready to deck the streets and have a tree-mendous time celebrating the holiday spirit together!

A Classic Parker Holiday

December 7-8 | 20000 Pikes Peak Ave. | 2:30 & 7:30 pm

Get into the holiday spirit as our own Parker Chorale and Parker Symphony Orchestra treat you to an evening of traditional carols, familiar songs and a few surprises in this cherished annual celebration.

Live Nativity

December 13-14 | 7160 Bayou Gulch Road | 5:30 - 8:30 pm

Come experience the world during the first Christmas! Take a step back in time without ever leaving your car. There will be live characters and animals portraying the scenes and story of the birth of our Savior. This event is free and open to the public. Bring your friends! If you have animals and want to be included, contact contribute@tuellers.com.

Join our monthly email list to receive the latest magazine issue: email contribute@tuellers.com

AROUND TOWN

Election Results

Congratulations to the Mayor Elect Joshua Rivero on becoming Parker's 8th Mayor. In addition to the Mayoral election, John Diak, Laura Hefta and Todd Hendreks were reelected to serve four-year terms as Councilmembers. Diak was selected for his fourth term on the Council, while Hefta and Hendreks earned their second terms. Parker had the highest number of active voters in the county.

Hometown Holidays Kick-Off

Vibes were merry and bright at Hometown Holidays Kick-Off! Attendees met Elsa, Olaf, Buddy the Elf and more seasonal characters, roasted s'mores, rode the Parker Express train, sang with carolers, and made crafts. Holiday characters will be out and about on Mainstreet in Downtown Parker from noon to 4 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 15

Turkey Day 5K FUN Run/Walks

Participants are enjoying their knit beanie and a festive race medal from the annual Turkey Day 5K Fun Run/Walk. Runners got to enjoy hot coco, cider or coffee, and social event that saw a great turnout starting the holiday before feasting on all your favorite dishes.

Mayor’s Holiday Lighting

O’Brien Park came alive with a great crowd. Mayor Toborg and Town Council, Parker Chorale, and the Grand Park and Town Tree Lighting made an evening of holiday fun! Downtown Parker came alive for the holiday season. The lights, music, and events have made our town rich in the spirit of the season. Starting in early October, over 75,000 lights are strung at O’Brien Park.

PHOTOS: TOWN OF PARKER
Bull Grills

What to my Wondering Eyes

Robert and Crystal Kennah give us a glimpse into their winter wonderland

As I walked into the Kennah home one sunny afternoon, I knew my claim that the visit would last only 15 minutes was not likely to happen. Holiday decorating was underway and a smile crept onto my lips the moment I approached their front door. Entering their gorgeous home, I was welcomed by two giant nutcrackers who flank a holiday greeting of "believe." And just like that, my holiday cheer had increased tenfold.

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

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

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

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

In the interest of providing the 50 best dining options in Douglas County, we must be able to personally recommend each listing. The guide is subject to change. If you have a suggestion for inclusion on the list, email us at contribute@tuellers.com.

KEY

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

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

Asian fusion

CHERRY VILLAGE ASIAN GRILL

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

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

DANCING NOODLE

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

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

INDOCHINE

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

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

JOHN HOLLY’S

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

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

THE GUIDE

THE BEST PLACES TO DINE IN DOUGLAS COUNTY

FOGO DE CHÃO

Located in the Park Meadows Mall, off a beautiful outdoor courtyard setting. This Brazilian steakhouse is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience. Try the full churrasco (shoo-hah-sko) to enjoy delicious meat cuts brought right to your table! And don’t forget the guarana!

JUNZ

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

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

BAKERY/DESSERTs

LA PETITE CREPERIE

The locals favorite spot to grab made-to-order crepes. Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong. Proudly serving farm to table fresh.

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

PARIS BAGUETTE

Popular Korean chain that brings expertly crafted baked goods through a warm and welcoming bakery cafe' experience that delivers joy to everyone. 18374 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 720-500-5555 $ (N)

POULETTE BAKESHOP

New artisan bakers taking Parker by storm. Order early, they sell out every day! 19585 Hess Road, Parker 303-955-5647 $ (N)

BARBEQUE

BIG JIMS

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

GQUE BBQ

Award-winning food. Try the wood-smoked ribs, brisket, pork, or garlic potatoes. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree 303-729-2506 $$

HICKORY HOUSE

The Parker tradition. Known for their baby back ribs, but don’t miss the pulled pork and barbeque chicken. 10335 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-9742 $$

OLD WEST BBQ

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

BREW PUB

20 MILE TAP HOUSE

Best known for their burgers and wings. Make sure to catch Trivia Tuesdays. 12543 N Hwy 83, Parker 303-841-6782 $$

GREAT DIVIDE BREWERY & ROADHOUSE

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

ROCKYARD BREWING CO.

Douglas County’s longest running brew pub. Steaks, burgers, pizza and soup! 880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock 303-814-9273 $$

TAILGATE TAVERN & GRILL

Your neighborhood tavern for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Sports bar with live music not to miss on the weekends.

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

THE LIBRARY CO.

BAR & KITCHEN

Offering great food & amazing drinks in a relaxed and warm atmosphere. Clear and simple menu options. 3911 Ambrosia St., Suite 101, Castle Rock 720-389-5986 $$

ITalian

CRANELLI’S

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

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

DANIELLE’S

SCRATCH KITCHEN

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

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

PORTOFINO

Authentic Italian eatery featuring pizza, pasta, calzones and heros. The local “go-to” for fresh Italian. 10920 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-841-9900 $$

SCILEPPI’S

A modern Italian restaurant focused on family recipes and premium ingredients. 210 Third St., Castle Rock 303-688-9000 $$

VIA BACI

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

MEXICAN

ADRIANNA’S

Intimate Mexican eatery for authentic cuisine in a relaxed ambiance. Great for parties. 7272 E Hwy 86, Franktown 303-663-7800 $$

CASA MARIACHI

Unassuming local joint serving up straight-forward Mexican plates.

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

LA CASITA

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

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

LAS DELICIAS

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

303-840-0325 $$

LOS DOS POTRILLOS

Elegant family-owned eatery. There’s a combo dish to please everyone.

19340 Cottonwood Dr., Parker

303-840-6574 $$

LOS VOLCANES

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

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

new american

CASTLE CAFE

Set in a former 1890s hotel. Plating hearty American fare like pan-fried chicken & burgers.

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

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 $$

MANNA

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

PARKER GARAGE

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

PEGASUS

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

313 Jerry St., Castle Rock 303-688-6746 $$

RORY’S

Comfort food and baked goods at their finest. Don’t see it on the menu? Ask for it!

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

SIERRA

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

TRIBE AT RIVERWALK

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

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

WEST MAIN TAPROOM

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

PIZZA

ANTONIO’S

A traditional family-style Italian pizza restaurant with a Brooklyn flair. 12947 S Parker Rd., Parker 720-851-5300 $

ARTISAN

Delicious Neapolitan-style pizza that makes each dish an individual work of art! And don’t forget dessert. 12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker 303-840-0518 $

COLORADOUGH

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

LIL’ RICCI’S

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

PARRY’S

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

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

STEAKHOUSE

DUKE’S

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

363 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines

303-814-2487 $$$

FOGO DE CHAO

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

PERRY’S

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

303-792-2571 $$$

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

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

TRAPPER’S CHOP HOUSE

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

UNIQUE

VISTAVINO MODERN

Quaint Tuscan grill made fresh from local fare. Every dish is a winner!

611 Wilcox St., Castle Rock 303-814-2487 $$

Advertising Works: Consumers still trust traditional media advertising over social media and online ads.

71% of readers confirm purchasing products or services seen in Search Parker

Join our community and let Search Parker connect you with our 120,000 monthly readers. bret@tuellers.com | 303-805-9455

EDITOR'S TAKE

When I was growing up in Texas, our family lived next door to a couple named Steve and Carol. I am sure that they were curious, and perhaps wary, at hearing that a family with six kids would be moving in (soon to be eight kids!) Through the years they were very kind and neighborly towards our family. They let us ride our bikes to the top of their long, slanted driveway and race down. We sometimes inadvertently kicked a ball over the fence into their yard and, upon retrieving it, would experience a nice visit with Carol. She would show us around their backyard and let us help with her garden. She let us eat strawberries and shared their garden bounty. We went over to visit and pet their cats and look at their beautiful wind chimes. They were patient with our childhood antics and took interest in our lives.

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

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

Christmas Pound Cake

3 sticks cold butter

1 8oz. cream cheese

3 cups sugar

6 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla

3 cups flour

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

Way Past Visions of Sugar Plums

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

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

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

Holiday desserts elicit wonderful memories that people want to relive, recreate for the next generation, and share with others. Whether it's baking night with the family, swapping holiday goodies with friends, or taking a plate of treats to the neighbors, desserts are intertwined into the fabric of our holiday traditions.

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

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

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

PASSIONFORCOMPASSION

In the 1990s, Parker’s Southeast Christian Church began collecting food and gifts for those in need. That group has now grown hugely and has become its own entity, SECORCares. SECORCares continues their Christmas Outreach Program, but they have changed some things. The original holiday program collected various donated items. The items were taken by volunteers to families around the community. The distribution process took many hours, and particularly fathers of families in need were not often involved in receiving the donations. Dennis Gorton, CEO/Executive Director, and Amy Pfister, Development Coordinator, emotionally describe the shift to a new way of running the program and the way it has affected families.

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

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

Harry and Jacqueline Samora Foundation 18th Annual

HARRY’S TOY DRIVE

From November 1st - December 22nd bring a new, unwrapped toys for children ages newborn to 18 years and they will be donated in honor of Harry Samora. Monetary donations can be made to the Harry and Jacqueline Samora Memorial Fund.

DROP OFF LOCATIONS

Parker: Legacy Point Elementary - 12736 Red Rosa Circle, Stroh Ranch Rec Center - 19301 J. Morgan Blvd, Extreme Auto - 10274 Dransfeldt Rd, Pinetree Jewelers - 11028 S Pikes Peak Dr, Antonio’s Pizza Pasta Wings - 12947 S Parker Rd, Fika Coffee - 22040 E Idyllwide Dr, Fika Coffee - 19559 Mainstreet, Big O Tires - 10431 Parkglenn, Capital Reman - 18520 Apache Dr, Castle Rock: Arapahoe Community College - 4500 Limelight Ave, Colorado Springs: Alliant Home Health - 125 Kelly Johnson Blvd, #340 80920 (Phone: 719-295-8000), Briston Hospice - 7660 Goddard St, #100, Salon Bella - 529 N. Tejon St, Hell’s Kitchen Pizza - 9 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, 1670 E Cheyenne Mt Blvd, Suite E, Colorado Springs and 385 Main St, Security, Denver: The Studio of Unique Fitness - 7200 E Hampden Ave #105 80224, Tendercare - 6021 Washington St, Unit D 80216, Frederick: Bristol Hospice - 3770 Puritan Way E, Greenwood Village: Bristol Hospice - 5950 S Willow Dr, Suite 306, Chicago Titles of Colorado - 8055 E Tufts Ave, #105, The Inn at Greenwood Village - 5565 S Yosemite St, Lakewood: Remax/KC Butler6th and Kipling, Arapahoe Community College - Littleton Monday, Student Center, talk to Travis Ogburn (ACC Foundation), Comfort Braces - Hampden Tower, Lone Tree: Solera Salon Centennial - Solera Salon boxes and flyers up and both locations, Littleton: Arapahoe Community College - 5900 S Santa Fe Dr, Highlands Ranch: Red Daisy Quilt Shop - 3531 Whiteford Dr, Westminster: Alliant Home Health - 12225 Pecos St, #100

Also Sponsored by Love, Sheila - A Giving Project and “U R Loved Project”

SPECIALS WITH TOY DONATION

Big O (10431 Parkglenn Way, 303-787-7010) - 20% on any service *Not Valid With Any Other Offers

Pinetree Jewelers - free watch battery!

Antonio’s Pizza Pasta Wings (720-851-5300) - 20% off with new toy donation *Not valid with any other discounts

Extreme Auto Repair (303-825-3808) - 15% off any service *Not valid with any other offer

Hell’s Kitchen Pizza (All Locations) - 20% off any pizza

Comfort Braces - Any new patient starting braces will receive $100 off their treatment cost, and have discounted monthly payment of $99, if they bring 3 toys. Any existing patient who brings in 3 toys will have $100 taken off their treatment cost.

Facebook :Harry Samora Memorial Page Tax ID #47-3575736

Please make checks payable to: Harry and Jacqueline Samora Memorial Foundation, mail to 19094 Cody Ave, Parker, CO 80134

Salon Bella

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

RegistrationKindergarten is Open!

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

Simply visit www.dcsdk12.org/kindergarten to get started. If your child currently attends a DCSD preschool, they will automatically be registered for Kindergarten.

DCSD Kindergarten Offers:

• Structured, Rigorous, Play-Based Curriculum

• Small Class Sizes

• Authentic Learning Experiences

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

For more information: www.dcsdk12.org/kindergarten

Kat is a skillful professional. She knows what she is doing, she loves what she does and is delightful! I would recommend her to anyone who asks.

~ Dee

Cindy is the absolute best! She is very helpful, gives honest suggestions and always does an amazing job coloring and cutting my hair!

~ Missy

I have been coming to Hair Color experts for over 15 years. The stylists are excellent and they are very responsive to the clients request. I would highly recommend this salon to anyone!!

~ Margie

Kat is the sweetest, most caring and amazing stylist I’ve ever had. I look forward to my appointments so much and the environment here makes it even better. I will never go anywhere else!

~ Alison

Cindy is phenomenal!

~ Jessica

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