Take A Bow
The iconic dance studio, Colorado School of Dance, is celebrating 20 years and a million dreams.
Lisa Tuska grew up dancing. She has always loved it. Her passion carried her through college where she graduated from Ohio University in Dance Training. From there she opened her first dance studio in rural Ohio and grew it into a thriving business with over 400 dancers. Her husband's career dictated a move to Colorado and they landed here in Parker.
Lisa enrolled her children at local dance studios but was not content with the training that was available. Together with Amy Colwell and Karen Levine, the three mothers decided the best solution was to open their own studio that could give their students the instruction they all desired. And just like that, Colorado School of Dance was born.
The studio opened in 2002 as a one-room dance program in the Stroh
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Ranch Community Center. Since that time, it has become one of the most iconic studios in the state and even garners national attention, having won several national titles. What began as a desire to provide dancers proper technique and a healthy, well-balanced dance training, has become the industry standard for all others to emulate.
One of the things Lisa and her studio are best known for is the Nutcracker of Parker. The annual tradition is as engrained in the community as the holiday season itself. Starting in 2003, the aim of the CSD (Colorado School of Dance) was to create a community Nutcracker, not just one for the studio. The event is sold out every year and often only days after tickets go on sale. This year, PACE made the contraversial decision to bring in a production from out of town. That decision that has been bemoaned by locals and an outcry from the community has caused Town officials to answer some tough questions. But Lisa and her staff handled it with class. They will still be putting on their annual show, just on different dates. And ticket sales have been as frantic ever.
Given the renoun, the prestige, and the reputation of such a studio, you might expect to find yourself in a very "sterile" business environment when you walk through the doors at CSD, but nothing could be further from the truth. They are welcoming, unassuming, and humble. The staff and dancers are a family.
Talking with Lisa and her staff it is easy to fall in love with this dance studio. They have created an environment that is steeped in excellence, yet family-friendly. They are truly an elite program, but still just our community studio. All because these three mothers just wanted to teach dance.
A former student summed up the influence that CSD has on its dancers, staff, parents and community.
I came to Colorado School of Dance in 2004 in search of a more serious dance education than I was getting elsewhere. I began half-way through the year and was instantly welcomed by Lisa Tuska and her staff. We would rehearse in a tiny, one-room studio and I think there may have been all of 40 students enrolled. In 2005, I was selected for CSD’s very first competition team and some of my best memories in high school were performing with that team. I remember in 2006 when Lisa opened up her new larger location a few blocks from the original and we were so excited to have three massive studios! Upon graduating in 2008, I remember feeling like I was leaving something more than a dance studio behind; I was leaving my family.
Three years ago, I returned to CSD to teach children’s classes on Saturdays. I now teach multiple days each week and I am the new Communications Manager! It is really special getting to work in my second home and pursue something I am so passionate about. It’s beyond incredible seeing how our studio has grown and flourished. CSD now enrolls close to 600 students and operates out of a 10,000 square-foot community center.
What is even more special than getting to work in such a meaningful place, is that my daughter is starting classes this year. She is only a year old, but will be taking our Mommy and Me class on Wednesday mornings. I cannot wait to see her walk through the doors as a student and build her own community at CSD.
-Hannah Fitzgerald (Former student, current instructor and parent)
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When the dominos of life start to fall, proper insurance coverage can be the peace of mind that protects us from substantial hardship. Our passion, and our mission, is to help our clients achieve peace of mind through exceptional customer service, education and access to the appropriate insurance coverage.
what matters most
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OCTOBER 2022 9
separates itself from the competition by Valuing
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providing policies, we want to develop long-lasting relationships with the individuals and families we serve. Our belief is that if you really know us, you will trust us to give you honest and impartial insurance guidance.
individuals and families grow, needs change and insurance policies may need to be revised. We proactively identify your coverage gaps through ongoing communication and periodic policy reviews. We strive to make sure you always have coverage equal to the protection you need.
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More than providing policies, we want to develop long-lasting relationships with the individuals and families we serve. Our belief is that if you really know us, you will trust us to give you honest and impartial insurance guidance.
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When the dominos of life start to fall, proper insurance coverage can be the peace of mind that protects us from substantial hardship. Our passion, and our mission, is to help our clients achieve peace of mind through exceptional customer service, education and access to the appropriate insurance coverage. K&S Insurance separates itself from the competition by Valuing Personal Relationships over revenue, Anticipating Customer Needs, and Offering the Best Insurance Products available. FOUNDATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS More than providing policies, we want to develop long-lasting relationships with the individuals and families we serve. Our belief is that if you really know us, you will trust us to give you honest and impartial insurance guidance. CONSULTATIVE ANTICIPATION As individuals and families grow, needs change and insurance policies may need to be revised. We proactively identify your coverage gaps through ongoing communication and periodic policy reviews. We strive to make sure you always have coverage equal to the protection you need. STRATEGIC ALLIANCES As an Independent Agency, we are able work with the industry leaders to offer the best products and solutions that suit your needs and fit your budget. 5299 DTC Blvd, Suite 540 : Greenwood Village, CO 80111 : (303) 224-7793 LICENSED IN: Colorado : Wyoming : Utah : Kansas : Nebraska : Nevada : Montana : Texas : Missouri : Iowa : Illinois : Maryland : Florida Give me 10 minutes for a quote and a FREE Starbucks Gift Card :-) Call Matt Today! Matt Sanders LICENSED INDEPENDENT AGENT (303) 224-7793 matt@kandsinsure.com HOT TUB [noun] \ hät-t ǝb \ A regular tub, but with me in it. 303-841-7646 | www.spasofparker.com | spasofparkerco@gmail.com Locally Owned and Operated 19555 E Parker Square Drive/Ste 103, Parker - Behind NATURAL GROCERS
Chamber Music
I often compare the chamber of commerce to a big open room where people gather. It’s a room with many doors, each with a different sign on it. The door from which you enter depends on your professional needs.
Some business owners and managers want more profit and customers, so they come in through the Marketing Door. These are the folks who want grand openings, social media visibility, community awareness, and new customers. Typically, these are younger businesses working overtime to get a foothold in the community.
The Networking Door is for those who are sales-oriented. They know that people like to do business with people they know, so they are building relationships with others who might reward them with referrals. These are typically your service providers, from financial products, to real estate and mortgages, to chiropractors, and roofing folks. These folks love our leads groups.
There’s the Leadership Door. This is the one used by the larger, well-established companies and bigger employers in the area. They want to demonstrate community involvement and investment. They typically step up with sponsorships, serve on the board, send employees to seminars, and take a longer view toward solid relationships within the community. They also tend to support our advocacy efforts like our upcoming Economic Update event.
There’s the Social Door. These members come into the room because that’s where their friends are! They enjoy spending time with professionally-minded peers, perhaps sharing a beverage.
There’s the Affinity Door for those who want to be part of an influential community group. I particularly enjoy
those who use the Affinity Door because they help publicize the organization with window stickers, social media posts, and website mentions. These members realize the value of being part of an active, engaged community network.
I’ve been a member of chambers since I launched my first business 30 years ago. I’ve walked through all of these doors, depending on my needs at any given time in my career.
Today, I find myself encouraging more members to come into the room through the Citizenship Door. The Chamber is full of staff and volunteers who invest enormous time, talent, and energy to make the business community stronger. Those who walk through the Citizenship Door might or might not come to events, participate in marketing programs, or hand out a single business card.
These members write their renewal check automatically because they realize that a robust chamber is an essential part of the fabric of a successful, growing local economy. The chamber nurtures businesses of all sizes, provides a venue for sales and marketing, and develops community leaders.
Whether you own a local business, work for one, or simply want to nurture the local economy, you’ll find a warm and welcoming gathering place at the Chamber. Choose a door, and come on in.
T.J. Sullivan is the President & CEO of a local Chamber of Commerce. He recently celebrated his first year in that role.
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12 SEARCHSOUTHAURORA Life insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. From protecting your life, to preparing for your future, let’s discuss options to meet your needs. 0621-110MM_07460-7/1/2022 Marshall Ekhoff Financial Representative 10851 S Crossroads Dr Unit C7 Parker, CO 80134-8201 www.countryfinancial.com/marshall.ekhoff marshall.ekhoff@countryfinancial.com (303)841-3018 Summer Survival Station at the Judgement Free Zone® FREE HYDROMASSAGE SESSION just show ad to receive join in person or at planetfitness.com Must be 18 years old. Home club only. Billed monthly to a checking account. Subject to annual fee. State/local taxes may apply. Commitment may apply. Offer available at participating locations only. Planet Fitness locations are independently owned and operated. © 2019 PFIP, LLC 10901 s parker rd | parker, co 80134 (303)747-4104
THE GUIDE
THE BEST PLACES TO DINE IN DOUGLAS COUNTY
In the interest of providing
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
a typical dinner
one person, excluding
tax
tip.
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
HICKORY HOUSE
With the claim, “Best Ribs in Colorado,” Hickory House is a must-try. Delicious, traditional BBQ is served in a mountain lodge surrounding. You’ll go home full and happy. To bring the BBQ to you, Hickory House offers take-out, catering, and even on-site pig roasts!
JUNZ
A favorite sushi place in town with a unique blend of Japanese and French at its very best.
11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd., Parker 720-851-1005 $$
BAKERY/DESSERTs
HAVANA'S BAKERY AND CAFÉ
A family owned latin eatery who specializes in Cuban cuisine. They hand make all their flaky pasteries and try to bring a tropical escape.
19757 Pikes Peak Ave, Parker 303-660-1935 $
LA BAGUETTE DE
NORMANDY
Certified master chef and chocolatier Michael Dupont serves a little piece of France right here in Colorado.
16524 Keystone Blvd, Unit C, Parker 303-805-9130 $
LA PETITE CREPERIE
The spot to grab madeto-order crepes. Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong.
19751 Mainstreet, Parker 720-638-9722 $ (EC)
BARBEQUE
BIG JIMS
Don’t be fooled by this being a food truck; if you like southern BBQ, this is your place. Corner of Parker Rd and Longs Way, Parker $$$
GQUE BBQ
Award-winning roadhouse doles out wood-smoked ribs, brisket, & pork. Don’t miss the garlic mashed potatoes. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree 303-729-2506 $$
HANGRY OHANA
Hawaiian BBQ with a Texas twist. A local favorite and family friendly. 10471 S. Parker Rd., Parker 720-287-2516 $
HICKORY HOUSE
The Parker tradition. Known for their baby back ribs, but don’t miss the pulled pork and barbeque chicken. 10335 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-9742 $$ (EC)
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 $$
ROCKYARD BREWING CO.
Douglas County’s longest running brew pub. Steaks, burgers, pizza and Cream of Jalapeño soup! 880 Castleton Road, Castle Rock 303-814-9273 $$
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the 50
on
for
drinks,
or
$ ............................. Under $10 $$ ............................... $10-$20 $$$ ......................... Over $20 (EC) Editors Choice (N) New
$$
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$$
$$
TAILGATE TAVERN & GRILL
Your neighborhood tavern for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Sports bar with live music not to miss on the weekends.
19552 E. Mainstreet, Parker 303-841-7179 $$
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 $$ (EC)
new american
CASTLE CAFE
Set in a former 1890s hotel.
Plating hearty American fare like pan-fried chicken & burgers.
403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock 303-814-2233 $$
COLORADO
CORK & KEG
Uniquely fun sports bar with a creative menu of brats and dogs. 971 Park St., Castle Rock 303-660-2399 $
CRAVE
A favorite gourmet burger joint. Imaginative menu with amazing handcrafted shakes. 3982 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock 303-814-2829 $$
DOUG'S DAY DINER
American breakfast cafe where everything is made from scratch.
3982 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock 303-814-2829 $$
MANNA
A casual sit-down destination with a menu that reflects Colorado’s growing season. 2350 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock 720-455-3664 $
PARKER GARAGE
The Parker landmark located right downtown offers a locally-sourced menu. Great service and large portions. 19420 Mainstreet, Parker 720-389-8105 $$ (EC)
PEGASUS
A local favorite for breakfast or lunch. American, Greek or Mexican dishes. 313 Jerry St., Castle Rock 303-688-6746 $$ (N)
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 $$ (EC)
SIERRA
High-end, wood-fired kitchen with a warm ambiance, preparing select American dishes. 10680 Cabela Dr., Lone Tree 303-662-8800 $$
THE CHICKEN SHACK
Chicken wings, fingers, fries, and burgers. Great owners that always make you feel welcome. 11211 S Dransfeldt Rd., Parker 720-504-5044 $
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 $$ (N)
PIZZA
ANTONIO’S
A traditional family-style Italian pizza restaurant with a Brooklyn flair. 12947 S Parker Rd., Parker 720-851-5300 $
ARTISAN
Delicious Neapolitan-style pizza that makes each dish an individual work of art! And don’t forget dessert. 12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker 303-840-0518 $
COLORADOUGH
A refreshing take on madefrom-scratch pizza. So fresh they don’t even have a freezer! 17860 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-386-3333 $$
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 $$
PARRY’S
NY-style pizza, wings, & casual Italian eats, in kidfriendly quarters. 5650 Allen Way, Castle Rock 303-814-8686 $$
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STEAKHOUSE
DUKE’S
Rustic restaurant featuring beef & seafood dishes, plus a sports tavern with an Irish vibe. 363 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines 303-814-2487
FOGO DE CHAO
Upscale Brasilian steakhouse with all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside. Guaraná is a must, and try the Creme de Papaya. 8419 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-481-4001
(EC)
PERRY’S
Chops, seafood, wine, & cocktails served in an upscale setting with a lounge & live jazz. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-792-2571
TEXAS ROADHOUSE
Texas-themed steakhouse with a great menu and wonderful atmosphere. 11205 S. Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-5848
TRAPPER’S CHOP HOUSE
Upscale hideaway local favorite featuring their signature Volcanic Hot Rock sear-it-yourself experience. 19308 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-248-2132
UNIQUE
VISTAVINO MODERN
Quaint Tuscan grill made fresh from local fare. Every dish is a winner! 611 Wilcox St., Castle Rock 303-814-2487
Women’s Therapy
OCTOBER 2022 15
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$$ 6 NEW REASONS TO RISE AND SHINE $5.00 OFF A DOZEN One per person Must present coupon Not valid with other offers Exp. 9.30.22 9807 S. Parker Road thedonuthouse.com Elizabeth Schane MS, LPC, LMHC 19751 E MAINSTREET #395 919-891-4295 wellrootscounseling.com
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