Read the stories from the latest issue:
By Lynne Marsala Basche; photos courtesy of American Academy With a theme of “What would you do to get your students to read?”, the American Academy (AA) annual book fair kicked off with high expectations and an abundance of school spirit from beginning to end … especially the end. AA students had a goal to…
The Connection writer Amanda Merriman admits she is hopelessly addicted to books. It has been this way nearly all her life. Every month she will share what she has been reading with the hope that others will share in her obsession. For the month of February, this bibliophiliac chose another book in the genre of…
Promoting a culture of giving By Lynne Marsala Basche A community foundation is a tax-exempt, nonprofit, publicly supported philanthropic organization with a long-term goal of building permanent, named funds for the benefit of the residents in a specific geographic area. In very broad terms, a community foundation is a way to connect people who…
By Lisa Crockett; graphics courtesy of the City of Castle Pines Nearly seven years after the City of Castle Pines approved its annexation, land on the east side of town will soon have homes dotting its landscape. Zoning for the land east of I-25 between the Hess Road and Happy Canyon Road interchanges includes…
By Amanda Merriman How many times have you committed to attend a fancy event and then thought to yourself, “I would pay someone to let me NOT go to the party”? Well, here is your opportunity to do just that … Joseph Roos, founder and executive director of Hide in Plain Sight (HIPS) would like to…
Left to right: BRE Principal John Veit and technology instructors Monica Harmon and Jody Robinson are pictured with the 80 new Chromebooks that were purchased from the proceeds of the school’s Boosterthon fundraiser last month. By Kathy Fallert; photo courtesy of John Veit Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) technology instructors Monica Harmon and Jody Robinson are…
Press release submitted by Castle Rock Citizens for Responsible Development A group of concerned Castle Rock residents has formed an issue committee that they hope will hold Castle Rock Town Council members accountable and maintain the Town’s small-town charm in the midst of a period of potential unprecedented growth. Currently, the Town of Castle Rock…
The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce elected and welcomed three new board members at its annual luncheon held on January 20 at Seasons 52 in Lone Tree. The board of directors is comprised of a variety of business owners from the community who take an active role in supporting and promoting the business community in…
By Lynne Marsala Basche; photos courtesy of DCS Montessori DCS Montessori (DCSM) teachers always strive to teach lessons that align with the Cougars values, which are compassion, ownership, unity, generosity, achievement, responsibility and success. First through third graders learned a valuable lesson in compassion and generosity by creating hygiene packs for the homeless. Paul Brannberg’s…
By Terri Wiebold; maps by Tim Gamble In December 2015, Western States Lodging submitted a land use application to develop a 176 unit assisted living facility on the 7-acre property located on the northwest corner of Castle Pines Parkway and Monarch Boulevard in the City of Castle Pines. The proposed “Legacy Village of Castle Pines”…
Rock Canyon High School senior volunteers lent a helping hand loading trees for the BRE Garden Club. Students pictured from left to right: Garrett Wright, Rory Trujillo, and McKenzie Wierda. By Kathy Fallert; courtesy photos The Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) Garden Club sponsored its first ever holiday tree and wreath sale. Nearly 30 trees and…
Rock Canyon High School National Honors Society members set up a “Giving Tree” this year and coordinated needed items for five families in Douglas County. Article and photos by Riley Busch, RCHS intern writer Community service has been an important part of Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) for many years, and this holiday season the…
The RCHS varsity poms team on December 12 at the Denver Coliseum where they competed in the state championship. The team earned a 3rd place finish overall. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of Chris Crump Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) poms placed in the state finals for the third consecutive year in the Jazz division…
Article and photos by Elean Gersack Dancers from Boutique Dance Academy (BDA) in Castle Pines Village put on a beautiful show for friends, family and community members in December at Castle View High School. The second annual Winter Snowcase performance and fundraiser, organized by the BDA Booster Club, included a Sugar Plum hour for all…
Check out these wild ladies showing their school spirit at the RCHS parent after prom fundraising gala, which raised nearly $10,000. Pictured left to right: Diane Keely, Heidi Wing (Gala chair), Eileen White, Sheri Ballantine, Donna Carlin, and Lesia Rehl. By Maria Pangalos, RCHS writer intern; photos courtesy of RCHS Every year, Rock Canyon High…
Hammond’s Candies was host to more than 80 BRE third graders on December 1 as part of their financial literacy unit. Article and photos by Kathy Fallert December was a lot of fun for more than 80 Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) third graders who got to go on a field trip as part of their…
Denver Botanic Gardens 1007 York Street, Denver 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.www.botanicgardens.org Monday, January 18 (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day) Monday, February 15 (President’s Day) Saturday, March 19 (World Water Day) Sunday, April 3 Thursday, June 23 Tuesday, July 26 Wednesday, September 14 Friday, November 11 (Winter Gift Market) Saturday, November 12 (Winter Gift Market) Denver Botanic Gardens…
Bill Brunger thoroughly enjoys taking neighbors and friends through his basement which is loaded with war memorabilia, including maps, photos, and his numerous medals for bravery. Article and photos by Amy Shanahan Wilbur “Bill” Brunger is known to so many throughout Castle Pines as a wealth of information regarding World War II, but also as…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Brinner (“breakfast for dinner”) is one of my favorite meals. Breakfast foods are delicious and simple to make, and on a cold winter night they are a quick way to satisfy the whole family without a lot of fuss. When the weather is unpredictable, brinner is a great way…
On December 9, a Castle Pines bunco group that has been meeting for more than seven years met at Lin Giampietro’s house to celebrate the season, play bunco and give back. Pictured seated left to right: Lisa Bartmann, Alyda Macaluso, Alison Weiner, Alison Peery, Lauren Patterson, Angela Williams; pictured standing left to right: Diane Stavaski,…
Article by Kathy Fallert; photos courtesy of Jeff Stotler Castle Pines (CP) residents didn’t sleep in on a blustery, snowy Thanksgiving morning as they trekked to Elk Ridge Park for the third annual Punt, Pass, and Kick Competition. With temperatures hovering around 20 degrees and the park covered in snow and ice, the contestants…
By Nancy Koontz; photo courtesy of the Davis Family The Starbuck neighborhood of Castle Pines Village recently lost a dear friend and neighbor, Frank Nuebel. Highly regarded by all, Frank was only 55 years old when he lost his courageous battle with cancer. He was a local resident for more than 25 years and he…
Submitted by Douglas County Libraries Volunteers quickly discover the joy of bringing storytime fun to children in childcare centers in Douglas County through Book Start, a program offered by Douglas County Libraries (DCL). DCL “Getting Started” workshop provides a book start orientation, and offers tips and techniques to help volunteers learn to blend beautifully written…
Connection writer Amanda Merriman admits she is hopelessly addicted to books. It has been this way nearly all her life. Every month she will share what she has been reading with the hope that others will share in her obsession too. Christina Baker Kline, author of this month’s book selection, found inspiration for the novel…
Featuring the organizations that give year-round By Lynne Marsala Basche The holidays have drawn to a close, and the toy drives, donation boxes, and bell ringers have packed up again until next year. While the focus of giving seems to be more directed during the holiday months, the need for assistance in Douglas County continues…
Congratulations to Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce staff members Amy Shanahan and Carla Kenny. Shanahan (left) joins the staff as membership director and Kenny (right) has been promoted to president. Article and photo by Elean Gersack The New Year brings change to the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce. Former Vice President Carla Kenny has been…
Womenade is dedicated to aiding the Castle Rock and Castle Pines community through a network of caring women. Womenade of Castle Rock began in March 2004 and has raised more than $72,000 and helped more than 150 families in the community since then. In December, the group met at the Castle Rock home of Libby…
By Elizabeth Wood West; photo courtesy of Castle Rock Adventist Hospital Castle Rock Adventist Hospital (CRAH) celebrated the grand opening of its $1.5 million labor and delivery unit expansion in December by having expectant parents Denver Broncos punter Britton Colquitt and his wife Nikki host the ribbon-cutting event. The Colquitts will have their third child…
Firefighters extinguish a house fire on November 21 in Lone Tree that was started by a charging Lithium polymer battery. Article and photo submitted by South Metro Fire Rescue Authority South Metro Fire Rescue would like to alert residents about a real and present fire danger that could exist in your home this season. …
This aerial drawing shows the location of the soon-to-be built Sierra Grill in the northeast corner of RidgeGate Commons and the partially excavated area in the southeast corner where the Marriot TownePlace will be located. By Patte Smith; architectural renderings courtesy of the City of Lone Tree and BOSS Architecture Two new projects will soon…
A recreation master plan will help determine future amenities at Rueter-Hess Reservoir. Residents are encouraged to participate in the online survey by January 8. By Terri Wiebold; photo illustration by Tim Gamble The Rueter-Hess Reservoir Recreation Authority (Recreation Authority), comprised of the Parker Water & Sanitation District and its five regional partners – Castle Pines,…
Submitted by the Town of Castle Rock The secret is out – Castle Rock is a great place to live and play outdoors. Soon, a new pedestrian bridge will help connect the Town of Castle Rock (Town) trail system and make discovering this great community even easier. Construction on the new Wolfensberger Pedestrian Bridge…
By Lynne Marsala Basche; photos courtesy of Timber Trail Elementary Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) third graders participated in an exciting economics and civics project as part of project based learning. The project “Lean on Me” used the Douglas County School District’s World Class Outcomes to take learning beyond the traditional classroom by “adopting” four families…
DCSM sixth grade students took a tour of Judi’s House in Denver and delivered a check from the proceeds of their Holiday Gift Shop. This year’s donation will help provide comprehensive care to grieving children and caregivers through various services and programs. By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of DCS Montessori Each year, DCS Montessori…
The RCHS varsity volleyball team won regionals and advanced to the state championship this season, for the first time. A majority of the girls have been playing together since middle school. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Monty Nuss Photography and courtesy photo The Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) varsity volleyball team recently wrapped up…
Ashley Oxton’s business, Discovery Running is about “Discovering the world around you each time you take that first step and breathe in the fresh air. It is discovering more about yourself each time you head out for a run, and discovering what you are capable of doing,” she said. By Patte Smith; photos courtesy of…
RHMS students took time to serve others this holiday season. These students volunteered at City Square in Denver by providing meals and groceries to those in need. By RHMS eighth grade student Emmy Xu; Photo courtesy of RHMS Yearbook Do you want to build a snowman? A frozen heart cannot hope to rival the kind-hearted…
By Lisa Nicklanovich Is there an area of your home that is disorganized and makes you feel overwhelmed or just a little annoyed? An unofficial survey led to a common theme of areas in people’s homes that collect clutter. See if any of these areas in your home could use some organization and hopefully these…
Sage Canyon student Molly McGillicuddy practiced chest compressions as part of the school’s new first aid, CPR and AED training. By Lynne Marsala Basche; Photo courtesy of Sage Canyon Elementary Lifesaving emergencies happen unexpectedly, and courtesy of a new program at Sage Canyon Elementary, third through sixth graders will know what to do should they…
By Elean Gersack There are many great fields and parks in Castle Pines available by reservation for sports practices, parties or gatherings. The Castle Pines North Metropolitan District manages Coyote Ridge, Daniels Gate, and The Retreat Parks, while the City of Castle Pines manages Elk Ridge Park. Here is how to make reservations: Coyote Ridge,…
The first Sports Night at RHMS was enjoyed by all of the athletes who attended to honor the accomplishments of the cross country, volleyball and football teams. Here the eighth grade football team is seen giving a final cheer. By RHMS eighth grade student Jack Hibbett; Photo courtesy of Curtis Hughes On December 1, Rocky…
In 2014, polar plungers Detective Chad Teller, Sergeant Ron Hanavan, Captain Jason Kennedy, and County Attorney Kelly Dunaway jumped in the freezing water – Armani suits and all. Spectators are encouraged to bundle up and cheer on Douglas County’s local law enforcement heroes for the Polar Plunge at the Aurora Reservoir on February 20 and…
SnowSports 365 is a winter sports park being considered by the Town of Castle Rock to be located at Philip S. Miller Park. By Elizabeth Wood West; drawing provided by the Town of Castle Rock SnowSports 365, a newly proposed year-round winter sports park for the Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock, is currently…
The Parker Panthers ‘A’ team brought their A game and pulled out a championship (pictured from left to right) Evan Armstrong, Chase Cartwright, and Jackson Parrill. RHMS student and Parker Panther runner Carter Brand pictured with the McFarland coaches David Diaz (left) and Thomas Valles (right) who were two of the original runners that the…
PieZanos – A Slice of Heaven By Lynne Marsala Basche; Food Editor Located in historic Sedalia, PieZanos is reminiscent of an old-school pizzeria. It is the kind of establishment that evokes nostalgic feelings of a favorite pizza place where kids went for a slice after a movie, coaches grabbed a pie for a celebratory win…
In February, Castle Pines Village residents Andrew Gleason and Dane Westen will realize their dream of playing hockey in Canada against the best teams from around the world in the Quebec International Peewee Hockey Tournament. They achieved this honor along with their Arapahoe Warriors team when they won the Quebec Qualifier tournament in November. By…
Submitted by Regional Transportation District The Regional Transportation District (RTD) will implement a new fare structure effective January 1 designed to streamline the way passengers pay for trips across the agency’s expanding transit system. New features include day passes offering riders unlimited trips through the entire service day for the cost of a single round…
By Elean Gersack; photos courtesy of Jennifer Halvas Timber Trail Elementary School (TTE) fifth graders Hannah, Olivia, and Kate snuggle behind a colorful fleece blanket they created during the class holiday party on December 16. The entire fifth grade class worked together and tied 50 blankets, which will go to children in need at both…
DCSM upper elementary students are all smiles, knowing their holiday bake sale proceeds went toward purchasing a partial well for The Water Project, an organization with the mission to provide safe, clean water by supplying wells to needy villages. By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of DCS Montessori For the past five years, Karen Aschenbrenner’s…
Mrs. Shaffner’s second grade class had a blast presenting Castle Pines past, present and future during last month’s showcase. Left to right: Jake Pocock, Cooper Hibbett, Daxs Shoenbeck, and Dylan Laity. By Kathy Fallert; photos courtesy of Michele Laity and Meghan McDonald Friday November 13th was not so unlucky for students at Buffalo Ridge Elementary…
The Brent Lail Memorial Tennis Challenge was held October 24-25 in Castle Pines Village to honor a dear friend, family man and teammate. Lail passed away unexpectedly in May. He is pictured here with his dear sons, Garrett, Brandon, and Evan who are now 13, 15 and 18 respectively. By Elean Gersack; courtesy photos The…
Caption and photo by Lynn Zahorik Castle Pines resident Blakelee Guest is the assistant store manager of Bath and Body Works, one of the many stores at the Outlets at Castle Rock. Blakelee finds great joy in helping customers discover that special gift from the store’s unique collection of products. If your holiday shopping…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett I love a cozy dinner this time of year, something warm and simple, but still hearty and satisfying. Daylight is in short supply, but meals that feel comforting and nourishing can help compensate for the otherwise dreary nature of what is happening outside. This season is full of hustle…
By Amanda Merriman The typical flu season lasts from around October through May, peaking in activity usually around December through February. When considering the flu vaccine, it is good to know that in addition to your physician’s office there are convenient options available right here in the Castle Pines community that do not require an…
Connection writer Amanda Merriman admits she is hopelessly addicted to books. It has been this way nearly all her life. Every month she will share what she has been reading with the hope that others will share in the obsession too. When it comes to Donna Tartt’s most recent (and Pulitzer Prize winning) book “The…
By Lynne Marsala Basche The holiday season is in full swing and there are several local churches offering services to celebrate the season’s Holy message. Please note that services are held at the church’s regular meeting places unless otherwise noted. Castle Oaks Church Meets at 826 Park Street, Castle Rock; www.castleoaks.org *Christmas Eve candlelight service: …
Sharon Kollmar embarks on a new chapter in her life, returning to her home in North Carolina to be with family. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan Friends, neighbors, and business owners throughout Castle Pines recently bid farewell to Sharon Kollmar, a talented businesswoman and friend who has moved back to her home state of…
Numerous Castle Pines residents participated in a Texas Hold ‘Em tournament alongside members of the local Veterans of Foreign War Post 4266, in order to raise money for homeless veterans in Colorado. By Amy Shanahan; photos courtesy of Pete Solano Castle Pines resident Pete Solano joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4266 in…
Does your furry friend look forward to ornaments, mistletoe, garland, and sparkly lights? If your pet enjoys holiday hilarity and festive fun, please send us your photos for The Castle Pines Connection’s “Cutest Pet in the Pines Holiday Contest.” We have once again teamed up with The Pet Stuff Place in The Village at Castle…
Article and photos by Amy Shanahan SmartLife Audio Video celebrated its one-year anniversary at a wonderful event on November 13 with friends and community members. The evening included food, drinks and giveaways, as well as a presentation on a new line of products. Owners Debbie and Fernando Salazar were thrilled with the turnout and have…
Fifth grader Nikki Flocco made an appearance representing the Renaissance period’s Catherine the Great. Kyle White (left) and Alexa Nicola (right) representing Thomas Cavendish and Charles V, respectively. By Lynne Marsala Basche; photos courtesy of DCS Montessori School Since 2001, the DCS Montessori School’s (DCSM) Mystery History festivities have been engaging students in memorable ways. …
Article and photos by Amy Shanahan L’Arrangement, Miscellany, and the new Mainstream Boutique held holiday open houses on November 14 to the delight of the hundreds of shoppers who visited these unique shops in The Village at Castle Pines. Yummy treats, drinks, and exquisitely decorated shops created a festive mood. Castle Pines Village resident…
By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of Mira Brand The Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) cross country team ended its impressive season with an exciting showing at the State Championships in Denver. While this was the Nighthawk’s first time at State, and it will likely not be the last. Technically, the RHMS cross country season…
Next Auto Care’s Nathan, Elise, Delores, Ken and Dave at your service. By Joe Gschwendtner; photo courtesy of the Stafford Family Castle Pines neighbors Delores and Ken Stafford had finally made one of life’s most difficult decisions. The retirement funding was sufficient, they already owned a home in Arizona, and they had just sold their…
By Adriana Hakes Perhaps it is the winter chill in the air or maybe it is the less romantic side of the upcoming holidays – carrying bags full of presents through crowded shops – that works up an appetite for a hearty meal? Absolutely famished from a recent shopping excursion, I decided to get some…
By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Janna Robinett Paul Bryson and James Klein (pictured left) both seniors at Rock Canyon High School and 80108 residents, scored among the top in the nation on rigorous exams to test their business knowledge. Bryson and Caleb Hester (currently attending the University of Northern Colorado) earned the highest test…
During the 2015 holiday season, the U.S. Postal Service expects to deliver approximately 15.5 billion cards and packages. While it may seem like shipping is the hard part, consider the suggestions to make the process hassle-free. Shipping early is key to making sure packages arrive at their destination by Christmas. Not only is it more…
Alex Lockett, Drew Sotobeer and Kenny Boots are students from RCHS who all had podium finishes at the recent Colorado High School Mountain Bike State Championship. Lockett remarked, “The great thing about mountain bike racing is that it is an individual sport combined with a team event. All the RCHS riders gave each race their…
Many of Promenade at Castle Rock’s new tenants are open and ready for business, just in time for holiday shopping. Promenade is located next to the Outlets at Castle Rock, on the west side of I-25 and Founders/Meadows Parkway in Castle Rock. By Elizabeth Wood West; site plan provided by Alberta Development Partners With the…