Read the stories from the latest issue:
The staff at BRE embraces the power of giving during the holidays. Article and photos by Elean Gersack One of the things that makes Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) so special is the caring and compassion embodied throughout the school. Each year at this time for the past thirteen years, classrooms and hallways have bustled…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Timber Team, the student council at Timber Trail Elementary, headed up a food and supplies drive for the Douglas/Elbert task force in December. They collected food, diapers and even food and supplies for pets whose families are in a tight spot. Here, Timber Team members (from left) Ethan Fraser,…
Sheriff David A. Weaver (pictured far left) with his command staff proudly pose in front of the Justice Center in Castle Rock after receiving national recognition for program excellence. By Joe Gschwendtner; photo courtesy of the DCSO Few people in Douglas County doubt the steely efficiency of the sheriff’s office; just ask the bad guys…
The two-time state champion varsity volleyball team from LHSP won its second title on November 10 at the Denver Coliseum. Pictured from left to right, back row: Alison Kjergaard, Chandler Sturms, Madi Arnell, Nikki Ball, Laura Beach, Michelle Cattau, Whitney Dettmering, Connie Olson and Jordyn Sturms; front row, left to right: Sarah Mayhall, Michala Saenz,…
Cougars Lacrosse players go for the ball during a game against Denver Lacrosse Club. Article and photo by Elean Gersack Spring will be here soon, so it’s the perfect time to get registered for sports leagues and activities. Here is a quick reference guide to some of the most popular leagues and recreational activities around.…
Before you head to the garden to plant a new flowerbed or a crop of tomatoes this spring, take the time to call the Utility Notification Center of Colorado. Locators are typically on the job within 72 hours of a confirmed request to accurately mark the underground lines in an excavation area. Even a small…
Snow Removal Policy Snow and ice can be dangerous for all ages, but especially for children, the elderly and persons with disabilities who are more susceptible to injury. For example, when sidewalks are not cleared of snow and ice, children will often weave in and out of streets and sidewalks on their way to or…
A taste of…The Rock Wood Fired Pizza and Spirits By Liane Marette Davis, photos courtesy of The Rock The Seattle-based pizza chain opened its doors in Tacoma, Washington in 1995 and has been rockin’ ever since. No, not Grunge, but hard-core rock and roll! The rock-themed restaurant is quickly becoming a neighborhood favorite, with Colorado…
Members of the AA National Junior Honor Society take the NJHS pledge in front of friends and proud parents Information and photo provided by American Academy Late last fall, American Academy (AA) was proud to add a new group of inductees to its chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) in a special evening…
Timber Trail Elementary students study the night sky . . . indoors. A portable Starlab gave them a chance to learn more about planets and constellations in the school’s library. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett The night sky can be a fascinating place to discover new things, but since elementary school students are not…
Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele Street, Denver January 11 January 12 January 23 February 3 February 4 February 21 November 4 November 15 November 21 Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York Street, Denver January 21 February 18 March 27 April 22 July 9 August 27 October 7 November 2 Denver Center for Performing Arts 1101 13th Street,…
By Chris Bonham; photo courtesy of Dana Bonham A group of homeschoolers from Castle Rock, Castle Pines, and surrounding communities gathered in November to volunteer at the Operation Christmas Child packing center in Colorado Springs. This is the third annual trip the group has taken to volunteer at the center. Along with hundreds of other…
A victorious Valor Christian football team after crushing Cherokee Trail 9-0, taking the State 5A Championship. By Julie Montoya; photos courtesy of Kathleen Courier Valor Christian High School’s football team has done it again! For the fourth consecutive year, Valor’s varsity football team has been crowned the Colorado State Champions. Valor Christian won 3A in…
The fourth grade bunnies at BRE are very well-loved and cared for by their students. From left to right are: Cuddles, Shadow, Skitter and Snickers. By Jacob B., BRE Ridgeline staff reporter The fourth grade teachers at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) educate students about life science, habitats, animal behaviors, and animal structures. In the…
Movie lovers rejoice. Movie and Martini enthusiasts at The Wildlife Experience have selected the 2013 movie lineup to be shown in the Extreme Screen Theater. They are hard at work planning a new, more casual cocktail party atmosphere featuring a wider array of cocktail samplings brought to you by wonderful wine and spirit partners. They…
True You owner Amy Schmidt (left) and Ed Heystee (right)celebrating at True You’s ribbon cutting ceremony, held by the Parker Chamber of Commerce on December 4, 2012. By Liane Marette Davis, photos courtesy of True You, Ed Heystee and Liane Marette Davis When one door closes, another door opens. Amy Schmidt closed the doors…
Taylor enjoyed putting together a Lego set of the Sydney Opera House, but the real thing was even better. Shane, Taylor & Michelle enjoying Bondi Beach. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of Michelle Easterberg Taylor Easterberg’s Make-A-Wish trip to Sydney, Australia was not only action-packed with all the marine life he had dreamed of, but…
The Bundt Shoppe, a popular cake bakery in Castle Pines, opened a second location in Greenwood Village in November. Bundt Shoppe owner Pam Randall (left) greets Greenwood Village Mayor Ron Rakowsky (at left) and Cherry Hills Village Mayor Doug Tisdale. Store manager Rachel Randall is at right. By Lisa Crockett; photo courtesy of The Bundt…
Left: Katie Abner coaches t-ball and soccer through Castle Pines Athletics, as well as teaching private and group swim lessons in the Castle Rock and Castle Pines area. Right: Abner and his family enjoy hiking in the Rockies in their spare time. By Kathy Dunker; photos courtesy of the Abner family Rock Canyon High School…
On November 15, former Army Staff Sergeant Brian Schar spoke to the eighth grade students at RHMS. Schar lost both of his legs in Baghdad, Iraq in 2007 when an IED exploded in front of his vehicle. Following his speech, many of the students took the opportunity to shake Schar’s hand and to thank him…
Audience of One, a community theater group, sponsored a 5K run to benefit an Aurora shooting victim. Young actors (from left) Jordan Rickerd, Taylor Muckel and Alaina Spangenberger cross the finish line at the race. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett Community theater with a higher purpose has a strong following in Castle Pines. A dozen young…
The Colorado Shakespeare Festival’s Twelfth Night 2012 Tour at DCSM to raise awareness about bullying. Article and photo courtesy of Jodi Anderson No matter the time in history, bullies and bullying are not to be tolerated. On November 2, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival’s Twelfth Night 2012 Tour came to DCS Montessori Charter School to perform…
By Patte Smith The excavation and dirt dumping at the southwest corner of South Havana and RidgeGate Parkway is an approved plan by the City of Lone Tree. The dirt being dumped is from previous and current construction sites in Lone Tree. Tentative plans for this site include a large-capacity parking garage for the southeast…
The RCHS band performs at a Veterans Day parade. Article and photos by Birgit Moran This year’s theme music and show is “Phobias,” which is considered a concept show by the Colorado Bandmasters Association. Now a 5A level band, the RCHS band is challenged to do more than in previous years. It is still a…
Article and photos by Julie Montoya On a cool November evening, five hundred Nicholas Sparks fans came together at Cielo at Castle Pines to hear the New York Times bestselling author speak about his incredible literary career. This enchanted evening was organized by the Douglas County Library as part of its “Project Live!” campaign. With…
Article and graphic by Patte Smith Did you know that Douglas County Libraries offers a novel approach to learning: online educational programs that benefit an array of people? From toddlers to teens, college students to older adults, these collections of courses, resources, chronicles, and reference materials can be obtained by a click of the mouse.…
Maddy Krause signed her National Letter of Intent to play lacrosse for the University of Colorado in Boulder. Krause was thrilled to receive the recognition of her hard work on the field. By Amy Shanahan; photos courtesy of the Krause family Maddy Krause, a senior at Regis Jesuit High School (RJHS) and resident of Castle…
The thrill of a sweet chill in winter … Orange Leaf Inside Orange Leaf’s colorful surroundings – a great place for a book club, meeting, or just to gather with family or friends. Article and photos by Liane Marette Davis Why is it that the coffee drinkers are the only ones who get to anticipate winter…
A vast array of tempting goodies were available at DCSM on November 9 to help raise money for traditional Thanksgiving dinners for community residents in need. Article and photo courtesy of Jodi Anderson Treats and sweets are popular with students at DCS Montessori Charter School anytime, but when it’s for a good cause they come…
DCF Guns is now open at its new location on Park Street in downtown Castle Rock. The new facility features retail space, a shooting range, and classrooms for training. Article and photos by Amy Shanahan DCF Guns has been around since 2009, but they have made some significant changes and its new home in downtown…
By Lisa Crockett Right now, a trip to specialty grocer Trader Joe’s will cost you at least six hours and a few tanks of gas. For Denver-area shoppers, a drive to Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the closest option if you want to pick up famous TJ’s staples like Joe Joe’s cookies or a bottle…
Left: Inspired by the casinos in Monte Carlo, club members Heidi Erickson, Louise Melbye, and Ellen O’Connor dressed in their best. Right: The eight full-size gaming tables and professional dealers gave an air of authenticity to the evening in which many attendees hit the jackpot! By Amy Shanahan, photos courtesy of The Country Club at…
Pictured left: Fourth and fifth graders at BRE are all smiles with their rocket, called Buffalo Boosters, during the November 13 Rocket Launch Learning after-school session. By Caleigh M., BRE Ridgeline staff reporter Forty students in third grade through fifth grade took part in the rocket launching session led by parent volunteer, Kathleen Pirazzi, and…
Left: Hayley (left) and Nancy (right) Warner celebrate the good news with Taylor (center) that he will be going to Australia. Right: Taylor received VIP treatment from United Airlines and was given a special tour of the cockpit before take off. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of Nancy Warner Taylor Easterberg was thrilled when in 2010, he…
By Patte Smith It is not too late to help make holiday wishes come true for families throughout the Douglas/Elbert Task Force’s Santa’s Sharing program and the Women’s Crisis and Family Outreach Center’s (WCFOC) Adopt-A-Family program. The Task Force needs gift card donations to help provide a holiday meal or sponsors to adopt a family…
BRE Fuel Up to Play 60 Student Ambassadors, alongside chef Danny Flanagan from Sanctuary. Article and photos by Elean Gersack On Thursday, November 15, students at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) enjoyed a high-energy visit from Miles, the Denver Broncos mascot, to kick-off the Fuel Up to Play 60 program. Fuel Up to Play 60,…
Photo courtesy of Sarah Qunitana Top readers at Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) get prepared for an indoor skydiving expedition at Sky Venture Indoor Skydiving in Lone Tree. Students were selected for skydiving based on participation and performance in TTE’s literacy program, called “Sky Dive Into Reading.”
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett When you think of holiday desserts, you probably think of something warm and spicy like pumpkin pie, or something rich and heavy like flourless chocolate cake or even a chocolate truffle from a gift box. In the southern hemisphere, however, Christmas comes during the height of summer and…
The Buffington family (front row, from left) Aimee, Will, Kelsey, Tyler and Jeff at their Black Belt test in November with their black belt examiners. The Buffington family all received their Taekwondo black belts last month at Han Lee’s Taekwondo Academy in Castle Rock. By Lisa Crockett; photo courtesy of the Buffington family It started…
Commissioner Steve Boand By Elizabeth Wood West; photo courtesy of Steve Boand “The best part of being a commissioner is that you have a chance to help someone every week,” said Douglas County Commissioner Steve Boand. Sound familiar? If you are a part of the Boy Scouts of America world, it should. “Do a good…
The AAPTO clothing drive to benefit Molholm Elementary in Lakewood was a huge success, thanks to many dedicated volunteers and generous donating families. Information and photo courtesy of American Academy Though the last of the fall leaves still cling to our trees in Castle Pines, the American Academy PTO (AAPTO) and the school’s families are already…
By Lynne Marsala Basche Wildlife, conservation and preservation, oh my! Volunteering at The Wildlife Experience (TWE) satisfies any of those interests . . . and more. Celebrating its tenth anniversary, TWE’s goal is to instill an appreciation and respect for not only wildlife, but also for nature. TWE showcases wildlife in Castle Pines’ own backyard…
Landon and his tortoise, Henry, happily back together at home Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski Last spring, eight-year old Landon Holderness begged for a pet tortoise. In addition to the family’s dog, Bruiser, he thought it would be fun to have a cute, little, shelled, indoor pet. His parents, Michelle and Fred finally gave…
Go back in time at Dinosaur Ridge Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski Take the kids back in time at Dinosaur Ridge. Located just west of C-470 in Morrison, Dinosaur Ridge provides many fun activities and experiences for the whole family. Upon arrival, tour the Indoor Exhibit Hall that was opened in 2008. It highlights…
Information courtesy of American Academy Thanks to a partnership between Douglas County School District (DCSD) and American Academy (AA), work will soon begin on a second AA campus in Parker. The Douglas County charter school will be opening its second campus near Mainstreet and Motsenbocker Road in the Fall of 2013. It will be a…
This group of girls from Valor Christian High School traveled to the east coast to help victims of Hurricane Sandy. Valor teamed up with Samaritan’s Purse, an international Christian relief organization to help many in need. The work was hard, but the team’s spirits were high! By Julie Montoya; photos courtesy of Brian Bonn As…
Members of God’s Grace Community Church delivered 93 Thanksgiving meals to families in the Paris Elementary School community in Denver. (Photo courtesy of Tammy Heflebower) Operation Bright Star assembled 50 Thanksgiving meals at HOA1 for delivery to the Women’s Crisis and Family Outreach Center in Castle Rock. The event included contributions by Girl Scout troops,…
By Patte Smith It is that time of year to sharpen the saw, gather a few ropes and head to the hills to cut down the family Christmas tree. Near Douglas County, there are two areas to cut trees, both which require permits: The South Platte Ranger District Christmas tree cutting permits for the Buffalo…
Bonaventure of Castle Rock is a new senior retirement community located in The Meadows in Castle Rock. It is inviting the public to its grand opening weekend event on Saturday, December 1 and Sunday, December 2. By Elizabeth Wood West; photo courtesy of Bonaventure Located at 1855 Low Meadow Boulevard in The Meadows, Bonaventure of Castle…
By Amy Shanahan The Lone Tree Arts Center (LTAC) is featuring two outstanding shows this December, which are sure to put audiences in the holiday spirit! The “John Denver Holiday Concert” will run from December 11 to December 16 and is a wonderful tribute to John Denver by his best friend, co-songwriter and band mate…
Guests at the “Expedition 10” benefit gala were treated to a viewving of many special pieces from the museum’s collection, as well as several live-action “animals,” which were included as part of the party’s safari theme. By Lisa Crockett; photos courtesy of The Wildlife Experience Many 10-year-olds have themed birthday parties, and in November The Wildlife Experience…
Photo courtesy of Michelle Barton Runners/Gorillas Susan Williams, Lia Clarke and Castle Pines resident Michelle Barton with her daughter Elise at the 9th Annual Denver Gorilla Run. October 27, there were more than 1,400 participants on who raised funds for the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund, the international charity working to save the world’s last remaining…
Timber Team members (front row, from left) Sriya Surapaneni, Tori Jankowski, Emma Ziegler (back row, from left) Alexis WardBrown and Kylee Ingram receive a donation to the Red Cross from Timber Trail third grader Wendy Werner. Timber Team collected funds in November to donate to the Red Cross’ Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. Article and photo…
By Patte Smith; photo courtesy of Castle Rock Community Green Team It is Saturday morning and time to load recyclables into the car and drop them off for free at the Community Recycling Center in Castle Rock. This is great news for the communities and surrounding areas in Douglas County that are not currently offered…
Apodaca got an off-track thrill when meeting professional racer Danica Patrick last year in Sonoma, California at an Indy Car IRL series event. Information and photos courtesy the Apodaca family Alexis Apodaca, ten-year-old resident of Buffalo Ridge Estates, is interested in more than your typical Barbie doll girl stuff; Apodaca is an accomplished kart racer…
By Lisa Nicklanovich With the holiday season here, many are getting ready to either host or visit parents, grandparents, cousins, nieces and nephews. What an incredible opportunity to not only enjoy your favorite recipes, but also really get to know those special people in your life. Sure, you’re aware that Aunt Linda is an accountant…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Visitors to the Timber Trail Elementary book fair last month had the chance to meet a real reading hero. Clifford the Big Red Dog, a favorite character from children’s literature, was on hand to take photos with students. The photo ops allowed students to support a good cause, since…
RCHS Jaguars cross country boys varsity team members (from left to right): Jacob Blackburn, J.D. Gordon, Seth Huber, Andy Tinlin, E.J. Katsoulas, Conner Skoglund, Max Will, Lucas West, and Gabe Tauber (bottom). By Elizabeth Wood West; photos courtesy of Penny Jordan As Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) celebrates its tenth anniversary this year, Cross Country…
By Amy Shanahan; photos by Julie Montoya The month of October is a time when most people carve pumpkins, hang a few decorations, and stock up on candy for eager trick-or-treaters – but Becky Cohen takes it several steps further. Each year in early October, Cohen hosts an extravagant “Wine and Witches” theme party for…
Williams comes on to the field in the Jaguar manner of solidarity on September 21 against the Castle View Sabercats. Article reprinted in part from RCHS’s The Rock by Kelcey Beckman; photos ciurtesy of Rock Canyon Photos Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) senior and Castle Pines Village resident Eric Williams has caught the eye of…
Walk around Rock Park five times to say you hiked a 14er! Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski We have all seen it; it cannot be missed as we zoom south on I-25. The huge castle-shaped butte that welcomes us to the town named after it, Castle Rock. If you are looking for a fun…
Running comes naturally to younger kids, as is shown by these AA kindergarteners at the second annual PTO FunRun on September 7. Contributed by American Academy Charter School; photos courtesy of Amy Kotha When was the last time you ran 1,068 miles? If you went to school at American Academy (AA), you would have done…
Jim Blane – a veteran of Iwo Jima. Contributed by the Front Range Theatre Company and Castle Rock Senior Center Many people get caught up in their daily lives and don’t stop to consider that possibly a person in line at a store may have lived through extraordinary experiences, and that they may have served…
By Elizabeth Wood West Would you and your family like to make a big difference in a child’s life this holiday season? Castle Pines Community Church (CPCC) is inviting the community to join them in Operation Christmas Child, Samaritan’s Purse’s annual shoe box gift drive for children all over the world. Its goal this year…
Plum Creek Veterinary Services can treat your pets at its new clinic in Castle Rock or at your home. By Elizabeth Wood West; photo courtesy of Dr. Dave Roberts Dr. Dave Roberts and his staff at Plum Creek Veterinary Services are opening a new clinic on November 1 at 800 Kinner Street in Castle Rock.…
A view of the Atlantic from Plymouth Plantation, only miles away from the true sight of the first Thanksgiving. Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski Turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie are all traditional Thanksgiving feast foods that we expect and devour every year. Would it surprise you to know that none of those tasty…
Article by Lisa Crockett; book cover courtesy of Anthonette Klinkerman Local author and teacher Anthonette Klinkerman has released a new children’s book titled “Battle of the Grandmas.” Based on real-life experience several years ago with her daughter and a host of generous relatives, Klinkerman wrote a whimsical, rhyming story about a little girl who wants…
Special thanks to South Metro Fire Rescue (SMFR) Engine 36 from Castle Pines and SMFR Medic from Castle Pines Village for a quick response to this vehicle fire in Castle Pines on October 2. The fire was contained and no one was injured in the incident. Photo courtesy of Tammy Lopez
Article and photo by Kathy Dunker Tammy Lopez, agency owner of Allstate Insurance in Castle Pines, left her office in the Safeway shopping center and moved into her new digs on October 1 in the space next door to La Dolce Vita Restaurant. Says Lopez about her new space, “I will get much more visibility…
City of Castle Pines new City Manager Ted Soltis. By Kathy Dunker with photo courtesy of Ted Soltis Born on the East Coast, but a westerner at heart, new City Manager Ted Soltis is a welcome addition to the City of Castle Pines. Soltis moved to Castle Pines to accept the position in the middle…