This Is Aurora City Newsletter

Nov. 30, 2023

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These images of an illuminated tree and Santa and singers and other festivities also link to more information about the Aurora Holiday Tree Lighting

Share in seasonal cheer at the city's annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Dec. 5



Get ready to light up the night with joy and cheer! Join the city of Aurora for the annual Holiday Tree Lighting from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5, at the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway.


Experience the magic of live performances by Aurora Dance Arts, the Aurora Singers and the Clara Brown Elementary School Choir, and don’t forget to share the holiday wonder with the one and only Santa Claus! Wander through Santa's workshop, glowing with thousands of lights, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies.


Plus, enjoy a special magical surprise or two that will be sure to bring smiles to the young and the young at heart.


Additionally, check out the Merry Makers Market with products from local and regional vendors from 3 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 at Aurora Central Library. The Aurora History Museum will also be open until 7 p.m., where the annual Festival of Wreaths is on display.


Learn more about this free epic holiday celebration at AuroraGov.org/Events.

This image of two people eating food at an Aurora restaurant also contains the words The World in a City and links to the Go Aurora website
This image of a band playing at an awards ceremony and posterboards highlighting award winners also links to the nomination form for the Aurora Business Recognition Awards

Nominate an outstanding Aurora business for recognition by Dec. 15


The city of Aurora is accepting nominations from the community through Dec. 15 for its annual Aurora Business Recognition Awards Program, which began in 2005 to celebrate successful businesses that are leaders in the workplace and community. Award winners will be honored in mid-2024 at a ceremony that is still in the planning stages.


Nominees, which must be licensed in the city of Aurora and registered with the state of Colorado, will be evaluated by one or more of the following criteria: resiliency, innovation and creativity; service industry and hospitality; “small, small” businesses with great customer service; and diversity, equity and inclusion. Honorable mentions will also be given to community organizations, individuals, nonprofits and community initiatives.


To complete a nomination form and find out more information, visit AuroraGov.org/BusinessAwards. For questions, contact Elena Vasconez at 303.326.8808 or evascone@auroragov.org.

Children play on playground equipment at Red-tailed Hawk Park in Aurora

Provide your feedback for master plan of Red-tailed Hawk Park


Red-tailed Hawk Park is a 35-acre community park at 23701 E. Hinsdale Way in southeast Aurora. The Aurora Parks, Recreation and Open Space Department has launched a master planning process to review current park features and create an updated, cohesive park design to guide future improvements to the park.


Public input is a vital part of this master plan update. Join city of Aurora staff and the consulting team of Mundus Bishop and NHN Consulting to learn about this community park and share your ideas at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6, at Southeast Recreation Center, 25400 E. Alexander Drive, or online via WebEx. The link for the online meeting will be posted on EngageAurora.org/RedTailedHawk.


The project is expected to begin this winter and be completed in the summer of 2024. Part of the master planning process will include a construction timeline for proposed additions and changes to the park.


Unable to attend the meeting? A survey to provide feedback on the park will be available soon on Engage Aurora. Learn more about the city’s parks at AuroraGov.org/Parks.

This image of the cover of the December issue of News Aurora links to a PDF file of the full newsletter

Read the latest News Aurora


News Aurora is the citywide news and information publication distributed monthly in mailed water bills. In the December issue, get an update on Build Up Aurora infrastructure improvements, learn about the 2023 Business Recognition Award winners, see how you can volunteer for the annual homelessness count, discover intersection improvements coming to northwest Aurora, and more.

 

Read the December issue


Featured adoptable pets

This image of a German Shepherd dog named Paris also links to the adoptable animals page for the Aurora Animal Shelter

Name: Paris

Age: 2 years old

Breed: German shepherd

Enjoys: Paris enjoys long walks, snoozing on the couch and playing with any type of toy.

Ideal home: Paris is the perfect hiking dog! She loves other animals, including cats, and prefers a large yard. Paris is currently in a foster home and thriving. She loves treats and toys and providing humans with some company.

This image of a guinea pig named Pumpkin also links to the adoptable animals page for the Aurora Animal Shelter

Name: Pumpkin

Age: 1 year old

Breed: Guinea pig

Enjoys: Pumpkin enjoys snacks and a cozy igloo to nap in.

Ideal Home: Pumpkin is looking for an adopter with salad-making skills and plenty of space to roam to call his own.

The Aurora Animal Shelter has many dogs, cats and other animals looking for forever homes. Learn more about available animals, Animal Shelter donations and volunteer opportunities at AuroraAnimalShelter.org.

Featured Board and Commission

This image of a person canoeing on a mountain lake and containing the words Get Involved and Have a Voice and Make a Difference by applying for the Citizens Water Advisory Committee also links to information about city boards and commissions

Volunteer to provide counsel and recommendations to the City Council and Water Department on all phases of budget, departmental work plans, operational needs, strategic planning, long-range capital improvements and financial planning. Learn more and apply to this or other city boards and commissions.

IN THE NEWS




AuroraTV
This image of two female news anchors and one male news anchor on the Aurora Now weekly news program links to the AuroraTV webpage.

WATCH AURORA NOW

Section of road with orange construction cones
Get weekly updates on road construction projects in Aurora

UPCOMING EVENTS


Council Member Town Meetings

Council members are eager to hear from residents and committed to forums where those conversations can occur. Visit AuroraGov.org/TownMeetings to confirm meeting dates and location information and find links for joining virtual meetings. If you don't know your council ward, visit AuroraGov.org/PropertyInfo and look up your address.

  • Meet with Mayor Mike (Mike Coffman) - No further meetings scheduled in 2023
  • Ward I (Crystal Murillo) - Thursday, Nov. 30, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Martin Luther King Jr. Library, 9898 E. Colfax Ave.
  • Ward II (Steve Sundberg) - Thursday, Jan. 18, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Central Recreation Center, 18150 E. Vassar Place (visit the website for link to virtual meeting option
  • Ward III (Ruben Medina) - Tuesday, Jan. 9, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Aurora Center for Active Adults, 30 Del Mar Circle
  • Ward IV (Juan Marcano) - No further meetings scheduled for 2023
  • Ward V (Alison Coombs) - No further meetings scheduled for 2023
  • Ward VI (Françoise Bergan) - Wednesday, Jan. 17, 6 to 8 p.m., Southeast Recreation Center, 25400 E. Alexander Drive


City Council Meeting

Monday, Dec. 4, 6:30 p.m.

This will be a hybrid meeting, with attendance both in person and virtually. View online at AuroraTV.org, on cable channels 8/880 or on AuroraTV phone/streaming app. Visit AuroraGov.org/CouncilMeetings for the agenda. For information on addressing City Council during the meeting, go to AuroraGov.org/PublicComment.  

Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway, Paul Tauer Council Chamber


The Nutcracker Ballet

Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 and 2, 7 p.m.

Dec. 2 and 3, 2 p.m.

Join Aurora Dance Arts for the magic of “The Nutcracker Ballet.” Twirl along with Clara at her special holiday party and then into her dreamland, as she finds Prince Charming and his toy soldier army battling wicked mice, the Snow Queen and her dancing snowflakes and, of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy and her many dancing sweets! With a cast of 88 dancers and pure ballet joy of the season, this year’s production will surely dazzle and delight.

Aurora Fox Arts Center, 9900 E. Colfax Ave.

AuroraGov.org/Dance


ACAA Holiday Quilt Sale

Thursday, Nov. 30, and Friday, Dec. 1, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m. to noon

Swing by the Aurora Center for Active Adults to view and purchase the beautiful homemade quilts made by talented members of the ACAA Quilting Bee volunteer group. Treat yourself or a loved one to a beautiful handmade gift for the holidays.

Aurora Center for Active Adults, 30 Del Mar Circle

More info: 303.739.7951


Receptions Honoring Departing, Re-elected and Incoming Officials

Friday, Dec. 1, 3 to 3:45 p.m., honoring departing Ward IV Council Member Juan Marcano

Monday, Dec. 4, 5:30 to 6:15 p.m., honoring re-elected and newly elected officials

Aurora Municipal Center Lobby, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway


Merry Makers Market

Tuesday, Dec. 5, 3 to 8 p.m.

Experience a one-stop shopping event with a selection of products to choose from local and regional vendors in conjunction with Holiday Tree Lighting.

Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway

Learn more: AuroraGov.org/MerryMakersMarket


Holiday Tree Lighting

Tuesday, Dec. 5, 5 to 7 p.m.

Join the city of Aurora for the illumination of thousands of strands of lights at the Aurora Municipal Center, with holiday-themed activities, treats, live entertainment and a visit from a special guest.

Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway

Learn more: AuroraGov.org/Events


Miracle on 34th St. Radio Play 

Saturday, Dec. 9, 5 to 6 p.m.

Get into the holiday spirit with a performance adapted from the 1948 live radio broadcast. A department store Santa claims to be the real Santa Claus and people are beginning to believe him. This tale has become a timeless holiday classic for multiple generations. Professional actors play all the roles and provide all the sound effects. Hot chocolate and festive snacks will be provided. Tickets are $5.

Aurora History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway

Tickets: EventBrite



DeLaney Holiday Open Days

Saturday, Dec. 9, and Sunday, Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Visit the DeLaney Historic District to learn more about early Aurora history, see the DeLaney Round Barn and Gully House decorated for the holidays, and enjoy crafts, warm beverages and holiday cheer. The one-room Coal Creek Schoolhouse also will be open for tours Dec. 9 only.

DeLaney Historic District, 170 S. Chambers Road

More info: AuroraMuseum.org


Storytime and Toy Drive with Santa and the Grinch

Grinch: Saturday, Dec. 9, 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Santa: Saturday, Dec. 16, 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

It’s the holiday season! Enjoy a special storytime that will include a toy drive for families in need. Please only provide new, unused toys for donations. After storytime, you are welcome to stay for pictures, hot cocoa, cookies and holiday crafts.

Grinch: Tallyn’s Reach Library, 23911 E. Arapahoe Road | Register today

Santa: Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway | Register today


Aurora First-Time Homebuyer Seminar

Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 16. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (in Spanish)

Are you a potential first-time homebuyer, or do you know someone who is? The city provides first-time homebuyer seminars to help potential homebuyers understand the purchasing process. Classes are offered monthly in English and Spanish. Registration is required by emailing auroraed@auroragov.org or calling 303.739.7900.

Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway

Learn more: AuroraGov.org/Housing


Aurora History Museum’s Festival of Wreaths

Through Sunday, Dec. 10

The Festival of Wreaths is an annual fundraiser organized by the Aurora Museum Foundation and Aurora History Museum and Historic Sites. Festive wreaths created by community members will be displayed in the Aurora History Museum Community Gallery. Vote for your favorite wreath, and bid on wreaths in-person or online. Silent bidding will take place on Bidding Owl. All proceeds support exhibits and educational programs.

Aurora History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway

Learn more: amfco.org/wreaths


Centennial House Open House

Saturday, Dec. 16, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (tours at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.)

Reserve your spot on a free 45-minute walking tour of Galena Street's architecture, starting first with this Queen Anne Victorian home from 1891 that the Daughters of the American Revolution is decorating for the holidays. Learn about the origins of Aurora, and warm up with tea and cookies.

Centennial House, 1671 Galena St.

Reservations: EventBrite


28th Annual Gateway to the Rockies Art Show

Through Saturday, Dec. 16

The 28th annual Gateway to the Rockies Art Show, in partnership with Aurora Artists Guild, will present artwork will be for sale while the show is on exhibit. Artists will also have unframed artwork for sale on four Saturdays during the exhibit: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 25, Dec. 2 and Dec. 9.

Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway


Electronics Recycling Event

Dec. 26 to 29 and Jan. 2 to 5, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Jan. 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The city is offering Aurora residents special event pricing for electronics recycling through its e-cycling partner, Techno Rescue. Business customers are not eligible for this event.

Techno Rescue, 3251 Lewiston St., Suite 10

For pricing and what items are accepted: AuroraGov.org/Recycle


Christmas Tree Recycling

Dec. 26 through Jan. 8

Bring your Christmas tree to one of the city's free recycling drop-off sites. Remove all nails, decorations and stands from trees prior to drop-off. No artificial trees will be accepted. Free mulch is available anytime (while supplies last) at all drop-off locations. Please bring your own truck, bags, shovel and containers.

Del Mar Park, 12000 E. Sixth Ave. (west parking lot)

Saddle Rock Golf Course, 21705 E. Arapahoe Road

Olympic Park, 15501 E. Yale Ave.

AuroraGov.org/Recycle


“The Great Outdoors of Aurora” Exhibit

Through April 21, 2024

The Aurora History Museum and Historic Sites presents the new exhibit “The Great Outdoors of Aurora,” which celebrates Aurora’s vibrant outdoor opportunities and dives deep into the history behind the activities residents and visitors love to do in the city. Discover the stories behind reservoirs, city parks, nature centers, the High Line Canal, swimming pools, golf courses and more, all within Aurora. The exhibit also will feature historic recreational equipment, hands-on activities, archival photography and immersive elements that will engage and excite visitors of all ages. Admission to the Aurora History Museum is always free.

Aurora History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway

More information: AuroraMuseum.org

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Email communications@auroragov.org

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