Read the stories from the latest issue:
In August, the Highlands Ranch Community Association’s Backcountry Wilderness Area (BWA) expanded its Sunshine & Storytime program to serve more children in the community. The program now offers increased weekly outdoor story times, from one to three times per week, to meet the growing community demand. Each week, the story will be different with themes…
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will be in place for all areas of Douglas County due to heightened fire danger conditions. These restrictions are implemented to reduce the risk of wildfires and ensure public safety throughout the county. The following activities are not allowed under Stage 1 Restrictions: No open burning of any kind No…
On August 4, a district court judge in Douglas County sided with the City of Castle Pines in upholding the City Council’s denial of a McDonald’s drive-through restaurant in the Parkway Plaza development in the vicinity of the intersection of Lagae Road and Castle Pines Parkway. The property owner of the proposed McDonald’s site initiated…
We all play a role in preserving Colorado’s most precious resource: water. The Castle Pines North Metro District (CPNMD) partners with Resource Central, an environmental nonprofit, to offer practical tools to save water, reduce outdoor watering costs and create beautiful, waterwise landscapes. “If you’ve been thinking about replacing your lawn, now is the time to…
On July 9, the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) launched Colorado LIFTS (Linking Individuals and Families To Services), a new way to connect people in Colorado with a statewide, connected network of mental health, substance use, crisis support and care navigation. “Since taking office, our administration has been committed to increasing behavioral health support for…
The 2026 Douglas County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) is underway, and the County is asking residents to take a survey to help identify safety issues and potential problems in our area, specific to homes and property. The HMP identifies and evaluates risks and vulnerabilities associated with hazards and resulting disasters and leads to development of…
Baseball and softball players in Colorado now have a new home to improve their swings. Longtime HOA2 resident Todd Rafter and his business partner Lorne Levy opened the state’s first Gradum Gswing franchise last fall. The facility is already gaining popularity as a training spot for players of all ages. Located in Centennial, Gradum Gswing…
This partnership is about feeding the whole person—body and spirit. – Terri Wiebold, Publisher, The Castle Pines Connection A new partnership between The Castle Pines Connection and Nourish Meals on Wheels is delivering more than just hot meals, it is bringing uplifting local stories right to the doorsteps of Douglas County’s most isolated seniors.…
Jada Horan Freelance photographer and writer Jada was born and raised in Colorado, and she has lived in Castle Pines for most of her life. She attended Timber Trail Elementary, Rocky Heights Middle School and Rock Canyon High School and was on yearbook in both middle school and high school. “It wasn’t until my freshman…
The Castle Pines Connection would like to congratulate our very own editor, Hollen Wheeler (pictured left), on being accepted into Leadership Douglas County (LDC) 2025-26. The Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce created LDC to “continue to identify, educate and motivate current and emerging leaders to improve Douglas County through personal and collective commitment.” The two-year…
The school year is officially underway, which means the halls and classrooms at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) are once again filled with the contagious grin, spirit and purple treat-filled pockets of Bill Philbin, better known to students and staff as “Mr. Purple.” Bill, a retired Hewlett-Packard engineer, spends his days caring for his grandson Patrick,…
It was health and fitness that brought Joe and Treva Brown together when they met at a gym in Clearwater, Florida in 2000. Raised in Columbus, Wisconsin, Joe earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and then moved to Florida to become a paramedic and firefighter after the attacks…
In every culture, in every corner of the world, people set tables to gather around—to share a meal, to share a story, to come together. At the table, we remember what makes us human. Communal dining embraces the idea of equality and inclusivity, where common ground can be found. Jake Mathis and his wife, Megan,…
Ellen O’Connor grew up near the beach in New Jersey, spent a few years living in Carmel, California, and then landed smack in the middle of the two coasts with her husband, John, in 2001. Current residents of HOA1, John bought their house in 1985. For the past five years, Ellen has worked as a…
In Colorado, most of us love our Denver Broncos football team: cheering them when they are winning and chiding them when they are not. The Broncos and Colorado have a long history together, going back more than 60 years. Bob Howsam, a successful minor league baseball owner, founded the Denver Broncos when he was awarded…
An estimated 1.9 million new cancer cases are diagnosed across the country each year, according to the American Cancer Society. For those who face this life-changing disease, their day-to-day focus shifts to treatment and care, leaving less time and money for everything else. A national nonprofit established in 2006, Cleaning for a Reason, provides…
Adventure stories have captured imaginations for centuries. Full of exploration, risk and danger, epic quests, and challenges to overcome with courage and a sense of wonder or curiosity, these stories provide hope and entertainment. So, pick your own adventure with these book recommendations. The Martian by Andy Weir is a science fiction adventure set on…
On August 15, community members met at the Millhouse at Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock for an evening of fun, ice cream, games and celebration as they honored two decades of supporting youth in our community. The Douglas County Youth Initiative (DCYI) is a collaboration among Douglas County, Douglas County Schools, Douglas County…
Autumn is coming: colorful falling leaves, cooler evenings, and the perfect opportunity to enjoy outdoor fall festivals with family and friends. With fun ranging from arts, crafts and hayrides to pumpkin picking, games and live music, there is something for everyone. Here are some nearby festivals to enjoy: Castle Rock ArtFest This community art festival…
What started as a surprise two-week 40th birthday trip to England for Travis Hunt ended with a loving expansion of his family from four, his wife, Robyn, and their two boys Braden (22) Gavin (20), to five, with the addition of English bulldog Belle. Robyn’s birthday gift gave Travis a newfound love of both…
In 2020, a global men’s fitness group, F3 Nation, began a Castle Pines chapter and it is going strong today (see The Connection July 2023, “Men’s group more than meets the eye”). F3 blends physical fitness with leadership development and community impact. F3, which stands for Fitness, Fellowship and Faith, originated in North Carolina in…
The Castle Pines Connection is partnering with businesses and neighbors to purchase “wish list” classroom supplies for local teachers. If you would like to nominate a favorite teacher from American Academy, Buffalo Ridge Elementary, DCS Montessori, Timber Trail Elementary, Rocky Heights Middle School or Rock Canyon High School for us to complete their classroom, send…
Picking up where we left off last month, James Abbe’s roaring lifestyle had a way of unraveling marriages. In 1944, he and Polly separated. After co-authoring three travel books, their children were by then quite well-adjusted and aging well with a passion for nature. True to form, Patience went on to co-author the book…
Dear Mrs. A. There are kids walking across my yard to school and it’s creating an unwanted path. What is the etiquette? Green Briar Granny Dear Granny- No one wants to be that person who yells at the kids to “stay off my lawn.” But I completely understand, and I think it’s a perfect…
In its fourth year, the social committee for the Forest Park neighborhood held Summer Soiree: Sip, Swirl and Savor in July. Eighty neighbors gathered for wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres at the clubhouse in Forest Park. “This event is special because it gives us an opportunity to catch up with old friends, acquaintances and new…
Crossword brought to you by Allstate Insurance — Tammy Lopez (720) 733-1331 Across 1. Islamic pilgrimage 4. Clumsy sort 7. Short-haired hunting dogs 11. It may be stolen 12. Peruvian empire 13. Witch craft 15. Eavesdrops 17. Sarcastic military acronym 18. Old White House nickname 19. Frat candidate 21. Foal’s mother 22. Shot ___…
Award-winning investigative journalist Tony Kovaleski clued his mom in early about his life’s direction. When he was only 5 years old and given the gift of a snare drum, he took a drumstick and rammed it through the drumhead. Asked to explain, Tony said he was curious about what was inside. Born in Michigan’s Upper…
One of my favorite ways to relax is to try a new recipe. I’ve been a home cook and baker for long enough now that most of the time even an unfamiliar recipe is a sufficient guide for a delicious new addition to my kitchen repertoire. I recently saw a recipe developer post a creation…
Did you know that eggplants are technically a fruit and not a vegetable? This is because they grow from a flowering plant and contain seeds. Also known as aubergines, eggplants belong to the nightshade family of plants and are enjoyed around the world. A nutrient-dense food, eggplants have research-backed health benefits and are incredibly versatile.…
This year’s X Drive Classic golf tournament (X Drive), held at The Club at Pradera on July 28, sold out in less than 24 hours. The event raises awareness of Fragile X Syndrome and supports organizations that assist children and adults with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities. A massive milestone was reached this year…
Electric bicycles (e-bikes) have become popular for both adults and teens. They have a motor to assist with pedaling, making riding and hill climbing easier. HOA2 resident Sarah Allison and her husband recently purchased an e-bike to share to explore more trails. “It’s been fun getting to use some of the trails that were out…
The American Academy Performing Arts Program (AAPA) made up of the three American Academy campuses lit up The Schoolhouse Theater in downtown Parker this summer with three spectacular performances. AAPA adapted Disney’s Moana JR.: The Voyagers, directed by Olivia Andrunik, Jordon Stifle and Jared Engerman, and featured elementary students from the Castle Pines campus. Moana…
In an update to an article published in The Connection in April, Earth’s End: Journey to the Mountain is a picture book written and illustrated by middle school students from DCS Montessori (DCSM) and Nakamura Junior High School (NJHS) in Tokyo, Japan. The bilingual book was created through the OneWorld Book program as part of…
An extraordinary space converted for the community As we say goodbye to summer and usher in cooler days, fall also brings Oktoberfest. What better spot to celebrate and experience the German beer festival than at a converted airplane hangar? Tucked under the wing of an authentic B52 bomber, outside the entrance to the Wings Over…
Art on the Streets (AOTS) brings downtown Colorado Springs to life with displays of public art. Now in its 27th year, the selected exhibitions are showcased in a downtown gallery for one year. In 2025, a panel of jurors selected from nearly 150 proposals submitted by artists from across the state, the country and around…
During the June 24 City of Castle Pines City Council meeting, Council approved the addition of a roundabout at the intersection of Buffalo Trail and Monarch Boulevard. This addition will be completed as part of the ongoing 2025 Monarch Boulevard reconstruction project. The addition of the roundabout will: Improve the ability to make a left…
Following community feedback and further fire risk analysis, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners decided not to pursue camping at Sandstone Ranch any further. “We have heard from citizens that it is necessary we find a balance between providing recreation amenities in Douglas County while also prioritizing public safety,” said Commissioner Abe Laydon. Information…
A storage facility is scheduled to open in January 2026 on the southwest corner of Castle Pines Parkway and Lagae Road. For more information, email communications@castlepinesco.gov. Information and renderings provided by the City of Castle Pines; photo by Hollen Wheeler
A proposed mixed-use development near downtown Castle Rock is in the works. Called The Brickyard, the urban renewal area will include a four-star hotel, six new restaurants, a state-of-the-art recreation center, an entertainment venue, plus 500 homes, primarily apartments and town homes. Just west of I-25 on Prairie Hawk Drive, the 31-acre site is currently…
In July, Douglas County secured $500,000 in federal funding to go toward widening the “gap” on US Highway 85 between Sedalia and Castle Rock. Prior partnerships with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) have yielded progress, yet the remaining segment between Sedalia and Castle Rock faces ongoing safety, capacity and congestion challenges. This funding will…
The Louviers fire (also known as the Airport Fire) was 100% contained within three days, according to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) and the Office of Emergency Management. Thanks to efforts of all the fire crews, support personnel and agencies who worked around the clock to protect lives and property. Mild weather conditions also…
Last month, all Douglas County Health Department offices moved to a single location in Englewood. The departments include: Community Health, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Health, Epidemiology, Vital Records and WIC (Women, Infants and Children). For more information, visit douglas.co.us/health-department/. Information provided by Douglas County; photo by Hollen Wheeler
The Nail Room (TNR), a full-service nail salon, opened its doors at Sola Salons in October 2024. Offering gel-manicures and pedicures with a focus on sculpted gel services and basic nail art, TNR aims to be a relaxing atmosphere for personalized pampering. Behind the manicure table is owner and sole technician, Jacke Golomski, a…
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) raised mailing service prices 7.4% last month. The new rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp from 73 cents to 78 cents. The additional-ounce price for single-piece letters increased from 28 cents to 29 cents. The USPS applied a price reduction of 12%…
Last month, the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation Annual Breakfast & Awards featured guest speakers District Attorney George Brauchler, Sheriff Darren Weekly, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners, and additional representatives from the Douglas County Homeless Initiative. The event focused on how public safety underpins economic development, and speakers highlighted the vital connections between law…
Douglas County students head back to the classroom this month. With limited budgets, many teachers need and hope for extra supplies in their classrooms–pencils, disinfectant wipes, index cards, etc. They also oftentimes spend their own money to purchase furniture items, classroom activities, reading materials and fun items like classroom decorations, plushies and stickers. Many teachers…
Colorado General Assembly bill SB25-236 combined the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line (988 Colorado) and Colorado Crisis Services (CCS) line, making 988 Colorado the primary way to connect to immediate and free emotional, mental health or substance use support 24/7. This transition reduces redundancies and delivers a more seamless experience for individuals when they need…
Pam and Doug Cooper arrived in The Village at Castle Pines following Doug’s retirement in 2013. An attorney, Doug had enjoyed previous legal postings in Cleveland, Detroit and Dayton. Since then, the Coopers have burrowed deep into the local social and governing fabric. Doug’s story begins in Ithaca, New York, where his mother and father…
Vacquero resident Reagan Topping has gone from picturesque prairies to a job in finance. A recent graduate from CU Boulder, Reagan will begin her next adventure this summer at her dream job with Lockheed Martin. While Reagan may not be working to build spaceships, her role as financial analyst for Lockheed Martin is a foundation…
Dan and Tristin Gleason have called Colorado home for nearly three decades. Before their recent move to The Village at Castle Pines, the family lived in Lone Tree for 23 years where they raised their two boys, who graduated from Highlands Ranch High School, Luke in 2022 and Nick in 2024. Dan and Tristin met…
In July, the Rotary Club of Castle Pines (RCCP) and the Castle Rock High Noon Rotary Club became partner clubs. The latter changed its name to the Rotary Satellite Club of Castle Pines. The RCCP meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7 a.m. at The Village of Castle Pines Homes…
A decade ago, Staff Sergeant Michael Connors was confined to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (Walter Reed) for 18 months. He was evacuated there due to injuries sustained in the Middle East during his second deployment. When Michael was having mental health struggles, a service dog saved his life and the experience became…
“Time to update your pet’s microchip.” This periodically pops up on social media, but what does it really mean and how do you do it? If your pet came from a rescue or a reputable breeder, there is a very good chance he or she is microchipped. If they did not arrive with a microchip,…
Rio is a 5-year-old yellow Labrador retriever full of energy and enthusiasm who joined the Grace family in April 2020. Although her coat leans to a softer cream color rather than sunshine yellow like a traditional yellow Lab, Rio has a classic Lab look with her expressive dark eyes, broad head and strong, athletic build.…
Since the Kindness Rocks Project went viral in the U.S. in 2015, painted rocks with inspiring messages or art on rocks have been popping up in unexpected places across the country. Called rock gardens, there are many spread throughout Douglas County. A new one has been “growing” along the only walking trail in the Hidden…
A spirited crowd of almost 100 guests gathered at Trestles Coastal Cuisine in the Village Shops for a memorable evening in support of the Lone Tree Arts Center (LTAC). The unique “Breakfast for Dinner” theme delighted attendees with a standout menu featuring fried chicken and waffles made using Village at Castle Pines resident Glynis Albright’s…
With an average high temperature hovering near 90 degrees in Douglas County, August is perennially hot. This month’s book recommendations are all about the heat. Used as a literary device, oppressive summer heat plays a role in all the stories listed below. So, find some air conditioning and pick up a book that swelters. Heat…
Douglas County Libraries (DCL) is partnering with coffee shops and breweries for its annual Brew Tour, a community contest where participants log their visits to the venues for rewards, points and prizes. From August 1 to September 30, the Brew Tour allows residents to experience different DCL libraries while also supporting local businesses. Registration for…
The Town of Castle Rock’s Public Art Commission (PAC) unveiled a vibrant new mural at Festival Park in downtown Castle Rock. This latest installation is part of PAC’s ongoing efforts to enhance the town’s character and beautify public spaces in ways that reflect local values and identity. The restrooms at Festival Park, heavily used during…
August: that time of year when schools are starting up again and the days are at their hottest. Did you know that August was not always the eighth month of the year? In the original Roman calendar, the month was called Sextilius, meaning sixth. In 8 B.C., the first Roman emperor Augustus Caesar had the…
On a beautiful summer evening in July, several hundred residents gathered at Coyote Ridge Park for an evening concert by Ninety2K. Attendees brought lawn chairs, shade tents, snacks and beverages and sat back and enjoyed the band, hosted by the City of Castle Pines. Photos courtesy of Nick Neira
Peaches are often associated with the state of Georgia. But right here in Colorado, the Town of Palisade has a long history of producing outstanding peaches, along with other fruits. In August, the town, east of Grand Junction and 252 miles west of Castle Pines, celebrates its peaches during Peach Days. Palisade peaches are known…
Born in 1883, James Edward Abbe lived above his father’s bookstore in Alfred, Maine. A shutterbug from the beginning, James convinced his father to add cameras and photographic supplies to his inventory. Thus began James’s life and adventures that would span the globe. James found love first with Eloise Turner. Though they had two…
It is no secret that Colorado was once part of the mining sensation that drove many pioneers west in search of silver and gold. If you are intrigued with the history or interested in a hands-on experience, the Capital Prize Gold Mine (CPGM) is 90 minutes west in beautiful Georgetown. In addition to public tours,…
The Village Castle Pines Garden Club (Garden Club) hosted a donation drive on Saturday, June 28. The group collected more than 3,000 items—gently used clothes, household goods and toiletries—for Help & Hope Center, one of the philanthropies that the Garden Club supports. The collection of items will be distributed to families and individuals facing hardship…
For the third year in a row, the Douglas County Community Foundation (DCCF) is seeking nominations for its Hero Awards, which recognize the service and valor of Douglas County first responders, Armed Forces members, and community heroes doing transformative work serving people in Douglas County. The DCCF 2025 Hero Award categories are: Armed Forces Hero:…
Crossword brought to you by Allstate Insurance — Tammy Lopez (720) 733-1331 Across 1. Tofu base 4. Endure 8. Talk up 12. Pink, as a steak 13. From square one 14. Havens 16. “What are the ___?” 17. Combustible heap 18. Rural village in South Africa 19. Not just “a” 20. McFly portrayer 21.…
This year, the 5280+ Senior Chorales (Chorales) celebrated 10 years of bringing music and spirited performances to venues across Douglas County. The Chorales’ mission is to “provide significant and measurable health and wellness benefits of choral singing to mature adults.” The founders chose the Chorales moniker as a nod to Denver being 5,280 feet in…