Read the stories from the latest issue:
By Carin Kirkegaard; courtesy photos Spring has sprung and Castle Pines gardeners are sprucing up home landscapes. The ash tree makes up 15% of Colorado’s urban forest and is in danger of being obliterated by the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). In August 2019, the first evidence of the EAB outside of a federally quarantined area…
Connecting with Nature Article and photos by Julie Matuszewski In a world of uncertainty, confusion and constant stimulation, it can be hard to quiet the mind and take a needed mental break. Connecting with nature through a hike provides a peaceful escape far away from the traffic, meetings, chores and business of daily life. Being…
By Carin R. Kirkegaard; photos courtesy of Julie Lamb Wildlife and clear skies are an everyday occurrence in Castle Pines neighborhoods. We are home to a herd of elk that roams the surrounding open space. Residents catch glimpses of bears waking up from hibernation as they lumber across driveways. Walking the trails in the community,…
…through the Little Free Library Article and photos by Carin R. Kirkegaard Resident Michael Dauro made it a little easier for neighbors in the Kings Crossing subdivision of Castle Pines to pay it forward and share a good book. Dauro installed a Little Free Library (LFL) along the sidewalk at Oxford Drive and Malvern Court.…
Memorial Day National Moment of Remembrance by Patte Smith As Americans, we dedicate two days of the year to honor those who have served in our U.S. Armed Forces. Veterans Day in November celebrates the service of all who have served the country in war or peace, while Memorial Day in May honors those who…
By Joe Gschwendtner Americans have long been known for ingenuity and creativity in challenging situations. Currently faced with cabin fever, accompanied by claustrophobia and frustration, many of us have become quite resourceful in maintaining our sanity. What follows may be just what the doctor ordered. Consider old tonics. A bottle of wine is a good…
By Stacie Chadwick As we travel life’s journey, we pre-check a lot of big moments. Seminal ones like weddings, milestone-inspired birthdays and bringing children into the world. Most of these occasions have memory-searing significance, and they bear a weight and stature that’s truly breathtaking. What we don’t see and feel as much are unplanned occurrences…
By Lisa Nicklanovich There are many popular books that have been adapted to film recently, giving us the opportunity to see how the same story can be reimagined and beloved characters brought to life. The following films and television shows are in production, and the release dates are either unknown or have been postponed. Now…
Thoroughly Modern Manners – Ask Mrs. Abramovitz Dear Reader, Let’s talk about the May ritual known as graduation and the subsequent commencement ceremony. As we wade through the next few weeks or even months of self-quarantine, we’re all wondering if graduation will be postponed, held virtually, or even canceled? I can’t answer that, but I…
Animals enjoy sanctuary in Colorado By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo by Terri Wiebold A friend recently said, “You’re not really in quarantine until you’ve watched Tiger King.” According to the data firm Nielsen, the Netflix series, billed as a true-crime documentary, was watched by 34.3 million people over its first 10 days of release. The huge…
Article and photo by Joe Gschwendtner; information sourced from Fading Past: The Story of Douglas County, Colorado by Susan Consola Appleby Periodically we golf at Perry Park. When on the course, it is impossible not to be drawn into the sheer, raw beauty of the place. Like Roxborough Park, this tucked-away enclave captures true Colorado…
Article and photo by Kathy Fallert I have three dogs. Over the past couple of months with our family spending lots of time at home, I would say I have the happiest three dogs on the planet. Pets aren’t used to their families being home all day, every day. This has given us the opportunity…
Lifeline for struggling youth By Carin R. Kirkegaard May is Mental Health Month. Nearly 450 million people across the world are currently living with a mental illness. One in six children between the ages of 6 and 17 is experiencing a mental health disorder in the U.S. In Colorado, suicide is currently the leading cause…
By Bryan Goodland In May, we all take time to remember our mothers. Whether they are still with us or have passed on, it’s important to remember the spirit and share the stories of these women. Keeping family histories is just one great way to pass on stories to the next generation. There are a…
By Lisa Crockett
Article and photos by Lisa Crockett
The Connection E Guide insert is dedicated to all things eating, entertainment and events. During this time of limited social interaction and closed venues, our partners have done a terrific job adapting their business models and transitioning to takeout/delivery. We, too, have temporarily transitioned by including them right here in the pages of the newspaper.…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett For me, the ultimate expression of love is cooking something delicious for someone. For obvious reasons, my ability to do that has been severely curtailed in recent weeks. In the absence of the ability to actually cook for my loved ones, sharing recipes is the next best thing. It…
By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of the Landis family Jonny Landis is proof that miracles happen. Jonny has defied the odds time and again since surviving a 32-foot fall from a balcony a little over a year ago. He spent his 19th birthday in the hospital fighting for his life, but this year, he celebrated…
Information provided by the League of American Bicyclists May is National Bike Month, and although it may sound cliché, every month really is bike month. Established in 1956 and promoted by the League of American Bicyclists, National Bike Month is celebrated in communities from coast to coast and is a chance to showcase the many…
Healing from a Distance By Lisa Nicklanovich Telemedicine is a tool that makes healthcare more accessible. It allows physicians to practice medicine virtually. It used to be primarily utilized as a way to reach patients who had difficulties accessing a physician, such as seniors and those residing in rural or other remote locations. That all…
By Shawn Kernahan; photos courtesy of the Vereen family As many of us kicked back and watched the NFL draft from the comfort of our couches last month, the draft experience from a player perspective is a whole different ball game – just ask resident Shane Vereen. It was April 29, 2011 when Shane Vereen…
By Carin R. Kirkegaard; courtesy photos Club basketball tournaments have paused for the spring, but local youth basketball players are staying on top of their game. Four neighborhood boys, Chance and Cayden Conroy, Aidan Peck and Jack Tomlinson – all members of the Elevation Flyers club basketball program – have been working on shooting, ball…
By Carin R. Kirkegaard; photos courtesy of the Blaeser family Teen artist Claire Blaeser submitted two pieces of artwork to the 15th Annual Romancing the Arts exhibit sponsored by the Parker Artists Guild. Her pencil drawing, “The Deacon” won first place in the juried event. “Ever since I could pick up a pencil, I’ve been…
By Lisa Nicklanovich; courtesy photos Congratulations to the spring athletes who have signed letters of intent to play their sport at the next level. As of press time, there were still athletes with sports scholarship offers pending approval. We hope to celebrate them next month! If you have an exceptional athlete you would like to…
The final months of the school year for the graduating Class of 2020 has been unprecedented. Traditional celebrations have either been placed on hold or completely canceled. While at times it has been a struggle and there have been disappointments, this class has been incredibly inventive in the ways it has adapted to learning, communicating,…
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Timber Trail Elementary The Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) Timber Team continued to fulfill its mission of carrying out school activities by delivering the TTE Timberwolves a virtual spirit week. Team members met and planned the week’s event through Google Hangouts. There were several inspiring ideas, including superhero day. Students…
By Julie Matuszewski; photo courtesy of American Academy While remote learning certainly has been a change for American Academy (AA), the students, their families and teachers have embraced the change. Although everyone was learning from home school, announcements continued on Monday and Friday, delivering yearbook order reminders, local restaurant and small business events, birthdays and…
Article and photo by Celeste McNeil Staff and teachers at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) school are diving into technology to make the best of remote learning. Everyone at the school has been discovering a new way of interacting and learning. Weekly staff meetings are being held via video conference. These meetings allow for discussion about…
By Amanda Brauchler and Maddy Merritt, RCHS intern writers; courtesy photos In this unprecedented time, students from Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) discovered new ways to connect with their community and came up with creative social-distance friendly activities. Take a page from their playbook and try these ideas inspired by quarantine. Pick up an instrument…
DCS Montessori teachers show their students how much they are missed and are excited for them all to be reunited in the classroom once again.
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of DCS Montessori Our community schoolteachers and students have embraced remote learning. Separated by stay-at-home orders, learning has moved from the traditional classroom to a bedroom, the family room or even the kitchen counter. Students may feel boxed inside their new environment. In spite of limitations, DSC Montessori (DCSM) has…
There are not many households in the community that have not made a trip to King Soopers on Castle Pines Parkway in the past few weeks. For those who have, experiences have been varied. For every complaint The Connection has seen on social media, we have seen countless comments that speak of kindness and benevolence.…
By Patte Smith There are many ways to be entertained and learn while remaining at home. Several museums in the Denver metro area offer science and history topics, art, nature and videos online that the public can access. Here are a few of the museums that can make what seems like a dull day turn…
By Julie Matuszewski The 40-foot star atop Castle Rock’s iconic rock was lit last month as a representation of solidarity and perseverance. “This is a way for us to come together as a community, united to overcome challenges that are before us,” stated Castle Rock Mayor Jason Gray. The star was originally constructed in 1936…
By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Bill Vanderpoel The Douglas County Conservation District (DCCD) is on a mission to promote projects through education, furthering the sustainable use of natural resources with a goal to balance the needs of agriculture and urban growth. Bill Vanderpoel, member of the volunteer board of supervisors said, “The large landowners…
Information provided by the Castle Pines Metropolitan District During the global COVID-19 pandemic when toilet paper may be in short supply, please avoid flushing napkins, paper towels, sanitary wipes, personal or disinfectant wipes, facial tissue paper, newspaper, diapers, feminine-hygiene products and paper or plastic bags down the toilet. Flushing these items can easily cause sewer…
Information provided by Douglas County Libraries Libraries have long embraced the digital age and are continually adding innovations to service the members of the community. Douglas County residents can access a wide selection of popular digital e-books and audiobooks free from Douglas County Libraries (DCL). Within the digital offerings are more than 200 titles from…
By Shaun Kernahan; photo courtesy of Lisa Storey If you have lived in the Castle Pines community for any length of time, you likely know Lisa Storey, otherwise known as “Mama Lisa.” A savvy business woman, Storey has become very resourceful in the decades she’s been in the food business. From opening Mama Lisa’s Little…
Information provided by the City of Castle Pines and the State of Colorado With the approval of Colorado’s application for federal disaster area designation, Colorado’s small businesses impacted by COVID-19 can seek individual small business loans up to $2 million as part of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. Mayor Tera…
By Terri Wiebold While all local businesses are feeling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant industry is one of the most devastated by the current economic situation. All restaurants and bars were ordered to shut down dine-in operations effective March 17. Many have adapted and are offering curbside, takeout and delivery options, while…
The religious community has gotten creative in recent weeks, adding online audio/video sermons, livestreaming of services and even drive-up services. The Castle Pines Connection reached out to many area churches and synagogues to help the community stay connected with local congregations. As of press time, churches were closed to the public with a reopen date…
Article and photos by Julie Matuszewski While spring training was cut short this year and baseball fans will not be able to experience the traditional Opening Day this month, the “boys of summer” are still in our hearts. Days before social distancing became a mandate, I visited the National Ballpark Museum in Denver. Walking through…
Article and photo by Kathy Fallert With all the COVID-19 craziness, I saw an interesting post on Facebook recently. It said, “The real winner of this pandemic are the nation’s dogs who are experiencing unprecedented levels of people being home.” In that same spirit, April 10 is National Hug Your Dog Day. The number of…
Thoroughly Modern Manners – Ask Mrs. Abramovitz Dear Readers, We have a lot to talk about. I’m writing to you today as a reformed hugger. I gave up on hugging pretty easily, but I’m still not used to people LITERALLY moving away from me. Welcome to social distancing. Times, they are a changin’ and there…
By Celeste McNeil Do you love to read and find yourself with a lot of free time on your hands right now? In this digital age, there are many options to take literature on the go, like e-books, e-magazines and audiobooks. As a teenager I remember listening to novels on old cassette tapes while on…
Article and photo by Lisa Nicklanovich Spring is in the air, and while many are staying close to home and looking for projects to do, we can throw open the windows, clear the dust, spruce and reduce. Spring cleaning often leads to decluttering, and Japanese organizing consultant and author Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method has exploded…
Article and photos by Joe Gschwendtner While international travel for pleasure is not an option currently, now is the time to break out your photo albums and relive your previous travel adventures – or travel vicariously here through mine. World War II ended 75 years ago. Poland was a major casualty, ground up by the…
Reading Between the Pines By Stacie Chadwick As I sit down to write this column, I feel like I’m living in some kind of space-time continuum that’s on overdrive. Bad news hits my brain at such high speed that it’s in fifth gear trying to process things that are happening too quickly for me to…
Inspired by the characters in Michael Rosen’s children’s book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, families have found creative ways to pass the time these past few weeks. Working from home, online learning and “shelter in place” orders have residents being creative with their down time. Facilitated by Nextdoor, residents throughout the community perched Teddy…
Article and photo by Joe Gschwendtner Ben Quick was born in Monroe County, Ohio in 1828. Orphaned at 10, he took interest in carpentry and by 16 had become a carpenter’s apprentice, moving to Missouri with his brother Cornelius. Daring to dream big, when word of the gold strike at Sutter’s Mill rocketed eastward in…
By Bryan Goodland There comes a time when we all have to make decisions about caring for an elderly loved one. Staying in one’s own home can be an important factor in making the best choice. Whether it’s a grandparent, parent, uncle or even a distant relative, there are a myriad of choices. One of…
Around the world to the kitchen By Kathy Fallert; courtesy photos Kim Heidemann was originally a chef and one of six partners at Union An American Bistro located in Castle Rock when the restaurant opened its doors 15 years ago. The popular stop has gone through some changes during those years and so has Heidemann.…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett What’s your favorite first-day-of-April prank? Salt in the sugar bowl? A quick phone call to see if your neighbor’s refrigerator is running? The beginning of the month is a fun, slightly silly, way to welcome the month when spring comes into full flower. It’s perfect then, that a dessert…
By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Nick Lucey Both James and Nancie Lewis are Colorado natives and have called the local community home for 13 years. They have family close by too. In fact, Nancie’s parents still live in her childhood home which they bought in 1966. Nancie said Castle Rock reminds her of Littleton,…
By Patte Smith; photo courtesy of Douglas Regional Dispatch When a citizen calls 911 or texts 911, they may be in a heightened emotional state and are unaware that action begins the first moment after their name and address is confirmed by Douglas Regional Dispatch (DRD). At that moment, help is on the way, even…
By Shaun Kernahan; photo courtesy of the Thompson family Saturday, March 7 in South Bend, Indiana, the Denver Pioneers Lacrosse team knocked off top 10 ranked Notre Dame – thanks in part to freshman goalie and Castle Pines native, Jack Thompson. That next Tuesday, Denver ranked 11th in one national poll and climbed into the…
Training to overcome poverty By Carin R. Kirkegaard; photos courtesy of Erin White Homelessness is quite often equated with urban living. Tent cities under bridges and panhandlers on street corners are stereotypical images of disadvantaged members in society. While the Denver metro area is seeing a rise in the homeless population, suburban poverty is also…
By Terri Wiebold; photos courtesy of DCSD and Kyler Barker Local teachers and the Douglas County School District (DCSD) are joining in to help augment the supply of protective face shields needed for healthcare providers treating those with COVID-19. Career and Technical Education (CTE) engineering teacher at Rock Canyon High School, Kyler Barker, along with…
Article and photo by Sarah Bermingham, RCHS intern writer; courtesy photo Both Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) and Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) received the Colorado Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award for 2019. The award recognizes schools with outstanding student growth rates. RCHS is one of only three high schools in the state to receive it. This…
Article and photo by Celeste McNeil The Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) third and fourth grade Battle of the Books team recently competed in the district branch championship tournament. The team consisting of two third grade students and five fourth grade students was led by parent volunteer Cara O’Brien. Students read and reread ten books chosen…
An extraordinary week for an extraordinary kid By Maddy Merritt and Kira Zizzo, RCHS intern writers; photos courtesy of Kira Zizzo Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) students had the privilege to get to know Fabian, a 10-year-old boy diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a birth defect that affects normal blood flow through the…
Submitted by Kaeli Nallathamby, student writer; photo courtesy of Julien Bouquet Some of the top female athletes from Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) were invited to the Girls and Women in Sports Day luncheon at Cherry Hills Community Church. This is a national event that recognizes young women with athletic achievements. In Douglas County, the…
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of DCS Montessori Every three weeks, students of the DCS Montessori middle school Action, Creation, Exploration (ACE) program get to choose a class based on their interests. In February, students chose to learn more about the Douglas/Elbert Help & Hope Center. Expanding on class discussions, students spent time volunteering at…
By Amanda Brauchler, RCHS intern writer; photos courtesy of Shawndra Fordham After months of preparation, Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) science students presented their research at the Denver Metro Regional Science and Engineering Fair. With 10 total projects, the groups made school history. One team placed fourth overall, the highest rank in RCHS history. Five…