June 20, 2024

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Global Flavors competition seeks Aurora’s best globally inspired food

Aurora is truly “The World in a City,” and that global influence is reflected in our food, with more than 330 authentic, specialty restaurants and markets, dozens of food trucks and countless other cuisine-focused small businesses to explore. This year, a unique and exciting competition is taking place from mid-July to mid-August to find the best foods in the city.

Global Flavors is a contest celebrating Aurora’s diverse food scene conducted in partnership with the city’s signature international event, Global Fest. This friendly competition encourages residents to try new foods, explore a diverse set of restaurants and support local businesses.

Food providers in Aurora are invited to nominate a dish, drink or dessert from their menu. Nominations will be reviewed and a list of finalists in each category will be selected. Once the finalists are announced, the public will have the opportunity, starting in mid-July to visit businesses, taste the items and vote for their favorites. The top three places will be recognized at Global Fest and featured on AuroraTV and the city’s social media platforms.

In order to participate in the competition, the food provider must be located in Aurora, feature a “globally inspired” dish, be in good standing with all their regulatory agencies as required and be in good standing with their respective health department. Nominations are being accepted at AuroraGov.org/GlobalFlavors.

Global Fest, the city’s signature event, is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, on the Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn. Global Fest features the international cuisines of select local establishments, but no single event can capture the broad diversity of Aurora’s food scene. Global Flavors is intended to expand upon those offerings to showcase more great restaurants from across the city.

Learn more about Global Flavors and Global Fest at AuroraGlobalFest.org.

"The Good Neighbor" campaign encourages clean, safe communities

The city of Aurora’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs and Amigos de Mexico, with support from Arapahoe and Adams County Health Departments among other community partners, are leading an innovative public health campaign addressing the social determinants of health in the Aurora community.

As part of these efforts, the organizations launched the community-driven outreach campaign “The Good Neighbor.” Community leaders and Health Champions serve as the voice and face of this bilingual initiative, which focuses on topics including clean and safe communities, the importance of physical activity and other key issues impacting the health and well-being of Aurora residents.

Help spread the word on how to be a good neighbor in the Aurora community! Learn more at Facebook.com/InternationalAurora.

Sprucing up neighborhoods, one project at a time

The city of Aurora has awarded $60,000 in grant funds to 14 groups across all city wards as part of its 2024 Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program. Among the projects selected are neighborhood little libraries, back-to-school neighborhood celebrations, neighborhood cleanups and landscaping initiatives. See the list of awarded neighborhood groups and projects.

These competitive grants, of up to $5,000 each, support projects that enhance a neighborhood's physical condition, foster community pride and identity, improve neighborhood communication, and introduce new assets that encourage gathering and positive experiences. Awarded groups have until October 2024 to use the grant funds and complete their projects.

Although the Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program is now closed for the year, residents are encouraged to apply for one or more neighborhood mini grants to help plan their neighborhood gatherings and projects. Mini-grant applications are open at AuroraGov.org/NeighborhoodGrants.

For questions, email engagecec@auroragov.org or call 303.739.7280.

Name: Fannie

Age: 8 years old

Breed: West Highland White Terrier mix

About Fannie: Fannie is a seasoned sweetheart with a wagging tail and a penchant for paws-itivity! This fetching senior may require daily medications and some extra care, but that doesn't dim her sunny disposition. Fannie's a connoisseur of cuddles, always ready to snuggle up for some affection and ear scratches.

Name: Stormy

Age: 5 months old

Breed: Domestic shorthair

About Stormy: Stormy is the purr-fectly poised grey tabby with a flair for the dramatic! Though a tad shy, he's ready to storm into your heart and make it his cozy castle. Looking for a confident companion? Stormy might find his match in another cool cat who can show him the ropes. 

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.

Volunteer to provide recommendations to the City Council and city management regarding the development and implementation of civic engagement programs, and new initiatives to support and partner with community-based organizations, institutions and civic leaders in their civic engagement efforts. Learn more and apply to this or other city boards and commissions.

IN THE NEWS

• Aurora Now Juneteenth special - AuroraTV

• New E-470 interchange is about to open - 9News

• Aurora offers electronics recycling at starting at $5 - CBS Colorado

WATCH AURORA NOW

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)

• Saturday, July 6, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway

Ward I (Crystal Murillo)

• Thursday, Aug. 22, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Martin Luther King Jr. Library, 9898 E Colfax Ave.

Ward II (Steve Sundberg)

• Thursday, July 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, Aug. 13, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway

Ward IV (Stephanie Hancock)

• Thursday, July 11, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Colorado Early Colleges, 1400 S. Abilene St. (visit the website for link to virtual meeting option)

Ward V (Angela Lawson)

• Tuesday, June 25, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Central Recreation Center, 18150 E. Vassar Place

Ward VI (Françoise Bergan)

• Wednesday, July 17, 6 to 8 p.m., City of Aurora Public Safety Training Center, 25950 E. Quincy Ave. 

At Large (Alison Coombs, Curtis Gardner, Danielle Jurinsky and

Dustin Zvonek)

• The At-Large Town Meeting scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, June 20, at Central Recreation Center has been canceled due to a potential conflict with a public gathering at the same location at the same time. The meeting will be rescheduled at a later date.

City Council Study Session

Monday, June 24, 5:15 p.m.

View online at AuroraTV.org, on Comcast Channels 8/880, or on the AuroraTV phone/streaming app. The meeting will also be streamed live to the Paul Tauer Council Chamber in the Aurora Municipal Center. Visit AuroraGov.org/CouncilMeetings for the agenda.

City Council Regular Meeting

Monday, June 24, 6:30 p.m.

This will be a hybrid meeting, with attendance both in person and virtually. View online at AuroraTV.org, on Comcast Channels 8/880 or the 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

Summer Vibes

July 18 and Aug. 1

This summer, the city of Aurora is thrilled to introduce Summer Vibes, an exciting event series tailored for teens. Join us from 4 to 7 p.m. for three unforgettable nights packed with rides, games, live DJ, arts and crafts and fantastic prizes, all completely free!

• Thursday, July 18: Extreme Sports at Wheel Park, 2465 S. Chambers Road
• Thursday, Aug. 1: Olympic Games at Appaloosa Park, 5575 S. De Gaulle St.

More information: AuroraGov.org/SummerVibes

Aurora First-Time Homebuyer Seminar

Seminar in Spanish: Saturday, June 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Seminar in English: Saturday, July 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Seminar in Spanish: Saturday, July 20, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway

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.

Learn more: AuroraGov.org/Housing

Party for Pollinators

Saturday, June 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pollinators play a crucial role in our ecosystem and Aurora wants to celebrate all they do! Learn about the role pollinators play in the food system and how you can support them in your own backyard at our Party for Pollinators. Attendees can partake in various fun activities, community projects, garden tours, learning experiences for all ages and much more. This all-ages event is free, and no registration is required.

Aurora Water-wise Garden, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway

Learn more at AuroraGov.org/Pollinators

Yoga at Aurora Reservoir

Saturdays, June through August, 7 to 8 a.m.

Yoga at sunrise is a wonderful way to start the day. Join a professional yoga instructor for a morning vinyasa flow yoga class on the beach that will awaken your body and bring energy to your spirit. Ages 18 and older; $25 per person for Aurora residents. Classes are all-inclusive, for all levels and abilities. Aurora Reservoir, 5800 S. Powhaton Road

Learn more and register at Aurorapros.org/Yoga

"The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical"

Through June 24 

Adapted from the first book in Rick Riordan’s best-selling fantasy series, “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical” springs to life with dazzling special effects and a riveting pop-rock score. Performances Fridays to Sundays.

Aurora Fox Arts Center, 9900 E. Colfax Ave.

Learn more and buy tickets: AuroraFox.org

Parker Road Corridor Improvements Project Open House

Tuesday, June 25, 4 to 6 p.m.

Arapahoe County is hosting an open house to present alternatives and draft screening recommendations for public comment related to the Parker Road Corridor Improvements Project. Any input gathered will be taken into consideration as the recommendations are finalized for short-term and long-term projects that will improve safety, enhance multimodal travel, improve operational performance, and address evolving and developing future transportation needs along the Parker Road corridor between Mississippi and Hampden avenues.

The Stampede, 2430 S. Havana St.

More information

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth Workshops

Virtual workshops: June 26, July 10, 6 to 8 p.m.

In-person workshop: July 17, 6 to 8 p.m. (location to be provided upon registration)

As part of recognizing Pride Month, parents, guardians, teachers, social workers and other trusted adults are invited to join the city’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in partnership with Envision Youth to learn from licensed clinicians and community members tools and resources to better support and affirm the LGBTQ+ youth in their lives. Participants who attend all three workshops will be entered into a drawing to receive a $75 Visa gift card. For more information, email officeofdei@auroragov.org.

Register for workshops

Community Reading Hour

Saturday, June 29, 10 a.m. to noon

Join Aurora’s Human Relations Commission in partnership with the Stanley Marketplace for a children’s reading session. Participating children will receive a free book while supplies last. The commission also accepts book donations; books can be dropped off at the event or the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway. For questions, email officeofdei@auroragov.org.

Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas St.

4th of July Spectacular

Thursday, July 4, 6 p.m.

Celebrate America’s Independence Day with Aurora’s 4th of July Spectacular featuring live musical performances starting at 6:30 p.m. This year’s entertainment lineup includes tunes from Colorado Salsa Orquesta group and dance party music from Syndicate, a returning event favorite. Fireworks will launch approximately at 9:30 p.m. Pack blankets and lawn chairs and head over to the site to snag a spot.

Aurora Municipal Center’s Great Lawn, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway

More information: AuroraGov.org/Events

“80 Years Later: Aurora Remembers D-Day”

Through July 7, 2024

The Aurora History Museum presents the exhibit “80 Years Later: Aurora Remembers D-Day,” featuring local connections to World War II, a detailed history of D-Day, highlights of Colorado’s contribution to the war effort and a remembrance wall to Aurora’s fallen during the war. D-Day marked the beginning of the end of Nazi Germany's control over Western Europe and was a critical turning point in world history. June 6, 2024, will be the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings along the Normandy coast.

Aurora History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway

More information: AuroraMuseum.org

Coffee with Conservation

July 13, Aug. 10 and Sept. 14, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Join Aurora Water at the Water-wise Garden for coffee, engaging conversations on water-wise landscaping and irrigation, and a tour of this unique garden. On the second Saturday, June through September, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., staff will be available to answer questions about water conservation. Bring your curious mind and your favorite coffee mug.

Aurora Water-wise Garden, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway (northwest corner of Alameda Parkway and Chambers Road)

Learn more: AuroraGov.org/WaterClasses

Hoffman Heights Library 60th Anniversary

Saturday, July 13, noon to 1 p.m.

Hoffman Heights Library, the oldest library branch in Aurora, is celebrating its 60th anniversary! Join an outdoor summer celebration at Jewell Park, located next to the library just across the parking lot, with fun summer activities and delicious food.

Jewell Park, 12200 E. 13th Place

AuroraLibrary.org

Free Loader Days

Saturdays, July 20 and Aug. 17, from 7 a.m. to noon

Mulch helps reduce weeds, protects soil from erosion and retains soil mois­ture. Bring your pick-up truck or open trailer—along with your own shovels, pitchforks, and containers—to take advantage of free mulch from the city of Aurora. The mulch pile will be available while supplies last at the intersection of East Hampden Avenue and South Dawson Street (enter via Dawson and follow the signs).

East Hampden Avenue and South Dawson Street intersection.

Learn more: AuroraGov.org/Trees

Day of Resilience

Saturday, July 20, from 8 a.m. to noon

The 7/20 Memorial Foundation presents a community event designed to honor the lives lost and forever changed by the tragedy of the events on July 20, 2012, while also celebrating the community and strength of Aurora. The day starts with a Heroes Run 5K, including a Kids Run with a shorter course. From 8 a.m. to noon, the Reflection Garden on Tap festival will be open, including beer from over 10 local breweries, food trucks, live music, and exhibitor booths from organizations devoted to healing in all shapes and forms. Over 25 chalk artists will be drawing live in the memorial garden throughout the event. Admission is free. Wristbands for the beer garden can be purchased for $35 at www.7-20memorial.org or for $40 at the event. 5K registration is at https://runsignup.com/Race/CO/Aurora/TheHeroes5K or RunnersRoost.com.

Aurora Municipal Center and Water-wise Garden, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway

Learn more: www.7-20memorial.org

Wine and Wags Fundraiser

Tuesday, Aug. 27, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Get ready for a tail-wagging good time at the Wine and Wags Fundraiser, supporting the construction of a new animal shelter in Aurora. The event, in partnership with Spirit of Aurora, will feature wine tasting, appetizers, live entertainment, a silent auction, pet supply vendors and much more. This pet-friendly fundraiser, conceived by At-Large Council Member Danielle Jurinsky, will also include a donation drive for much-needed items to support the shelter animals. Sponsorships and tickets are now on sale at AuroraGov.org/WineAndWags.

Lake House at Cherry Creek Reservoir, 4800 S. Dayton St., in Greenwood Village

“Mosaic of Cultures: Aurora's Nepali Community"

Through April 6, 2025

The Aurora History Museum and the Aurora Office of International and Immigrant Affairs celebrate Aurora’s vibrant Nepali community with this new exhibition that delves into the rich and unique aspects of Aurora's Nepali community, including their distinct music, art, dance, religion and traditional food.

Aurora History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway

More information: AuroraMuseum.org

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