Read the stories from the latest issue:
Construction renovation for the new University Hospital Medical facililty is underway. Located on Park Meadows Drive, it is on the south side of the street across from the movie theater and east of Brunswick Zone. Contributed by Patte Smith schoolThe construction renovation is underway for a multi-specialty University of Colorado Hospital clinic and medical building…
Douglas County Household Chemical Roundups Saturday, August 11, 2012 Shea Stadium, 3270 Redstone Park Circle, Highlands Ranch Saturday, September 15, 2012 Castle Rock Utilities, 175 Kellogg Court, Castle Rock 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Open to all residents of Douglas County We will accept: House, garden, and pool chemicals • Paint and paint products •…
By Kathy Dunker The Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) jags have a few things on the calendar this month before hitting the books. Monday, August 13 is the first day of school for all Freshmen and new students. Tuesday, August 14 is the first day of school for all other students. Wednesday, August 29 is…
Castle Pines residents Harrison and Lily Wells were “D-lighted” to be the first readers to “C” the letters C and D and submit their photo to The Castle Pines Connection! Their geocaching for the letters led them to the front door of Dazbog coffee shop in Castle Pines and earned them each a $5 gift…
Castle Pines Athletics summer basketball camp crew 2012 (photo by Lisette Lederman). Article and graphics submitted by Castle Pines Athletics Castle Pines Athletics hosted a summer basketball skills camp on July 23-27 at the DCS Montessori School in Castle Pines. Coaches Lorri Hodges and Cari Ogg led the camp, with help from Rock Canyon students…
By Patte Smith A frosty mug of beer, yummy food, live music and exceptional art exhibits — sounds terrific! Join in the fun at the Art and Ale Brew Festival at the Wildlife Experience from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, August 17. World-class beer from some of the finest local breweries (and boy…
Petroglyphs can be readily seen in several locations along the Tour of the Tilted Rocks auto tour in Dinosaur National Monument. Article and photos by Kathy Dunker If you’re looking for a fun weekend getaway for the family, Dinosaur National Monument is one to consider. Located on the western border of Colorado crossing into Utah,…
Green products and modern materials inspire the “mountain modern” feel of the Medical and Dental Center of Castle Pines. By Elean Gersack; Rendering courtesy of Juan Gabriel Luna, AIA, NCARB, architect and principal of Rogue Architecture Ground breaking is expected this month for the Medical and Dental Center of Castle Pines (MedDentCP). This two-story 25,000…
RHMS eighth graders Abby Adams (left) and Hannah Phillip (right) show the official longboarder stance which showcases the boards’ under deck design. By Kathy Dunker with photos courtesy of Michelle Dunker What is faster than jogging but a little slower than a bike and all the rage with teens this summer? Longboarding! And what is…
By Kathy Dunker with book cover graphic provided by book publisher, Books to Believe It Not your average Joe, Castle Pines Village resident, Jude Randazzo, is a notable author who is about to publish his second book. Randazzo’s books are a fictional series featuring his main character, Tess Kincaid, an accomplished Ladies Professional Golf Association…
By Elizabeth Wood West with sketch plan provided by Northstar Development LLC After receiving an approval vote of two-to-one from the Douglas County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) for the Castle Pines Village Sketch Plan #038, Northstar Development LLC (Northstar) is moving forward with its project and is now seeking approval for a combined preliminary…
Chocolate chocolate chip cookies baked using high altitude adjustments to the recipe … perfection! Article and photo by Lisa Crockett It’s that time of year when social opportunities abound. The weather is warm, the days are long, and it just feels right to light up the grill and invite friends over for a long lazy…
Culture comes closer to Castle Pines with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra’s recent announcement that the Lone Tree Arts Center will be its new south Denver home. The symphony’s first performance will take place on the terrace on July 12 to an already sold-out crowd. By Amy Shanahan, photo courtesy of Don Casper and the Lone…
By Karissa Kelly It is a hot July day and you and your friends stop to purchase a nice, big Sprite to refresh you. But wait! You may not have the privilege to indulge in this for long… At least not if you are in New York. The mayor of New York City, Michael Bloomberg,…
Castle Pines Metropolitan District Manager Paul Dannels with CPMD Board Chair Jackie Sundquist at The Country Club at Castle Pines to celebrate Dannels’ thirty years of service with the district. Article and photos by Joe Gschwendtner The Castle Pines Metropolitan District provides water, sewer service and road maintenance to Castle Pines Village residents. Despite its…
Fifteen-year-old Brickelle Bro will travel to London in August to swim on the U.S. Paralympic swim team. By Lisa Crockett, photos courtesy of the Bro Family The countdown is on for 15-year-old Brickelle Bro, a Castle Pines resident and champion swimmer. Last month at the aralympic Swim Trials in Bizmark, South Dakota, Bro…
HOA II resident Bryce Stutler (left) and his cousin Dylan, pictured last year after filling their doe tag. Information courtesy of the Department of Wildlife website with photo provided by the Stutler family The Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Hunter Outreach Program, in partnership with other organizations, is offering several youth hunts during the fall…
Castle Pines brothers Sam C. (left) and Ben C. (right) stand proudly beside the letter “B” they discovered using the GPS coordinates given in the June issue of The Castle Pines Connection. By Amy Shanahan, photo by Lisa Crockett July Coordinates: Longitude and latitude 39.469231, -104.881928 If you find the hidden “C” and “D”, take…
Amy Long (left) says farewell to Aspen Walker, manager of the Castle Pines Library. Long is the new manager at the Parker Library. You will be missed Amy! Article and photos by Lisa Crockett A founding member of the Castle Pines Library staff has taken a new job managing the Parker Library, but she said…
Jake Mullins (left) and Tim Toole (right) with party host Sydney Boyd have provided their DJ services a several parties in their neighborhood this summer. Their services are fun and affordable! By Amy Shanahan, photo courtesy of Tim Toole Castle Pines Village residents Jake Mullins, and Tim Toole started a DJ company this summer, and…
Team Purple Passion takes time out for a photo op with their faithful mascot during a recent tournament at American Academy, featuring several local residents: Front Row: Coach, Dee Ann Arey (Esperanza); Second row: Ashley K. (Sapphire Pointe), Megan G. (Sapphire Pointe), Bella I. (Castle Rock), Amy E. (Castle Pines Village); Back Row: Ashley Z.…
Volunteers sort food donations at the Food Bank on Park Street in Castle Rock. Article and photo by Birgit Moran On June 16, the 9news Colorado Cares, Colorado Shares food drive bounty came to the Douglas/Elbert County Task Force food pantry, and thrift store with volunteers ready to help. Located at 1638 Park Street in…
By Lisa Crockett A county-wide event to be held in Parker will provide valuable recycling services, while also benefitting needy families in the area. The 2012 Summer Recycling Festival will be held at Sports Authority Stadium, located at 11901 Newlin Gulch Blvd. on July 21, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. The newly-opened Hess Road…
By Amy Shanahan with photos by Jule Montoya The Village at Castle Pines is pleased to offer its wine walks again this summer. The wine walks take place the third Wednesday of each month, and wines from a different region are featured each month. Live musical performances round out the evening of relaxation and fun.…
Article and photo by Julie Montoya The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce is happy to announce its newest partnership with the opening of the Castle Cliff Estate. This incredible private chateau is a premiere location for weddings, events and parties. It also serves as an intimate four suite bed & breakfast – the only one…
Information provided by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Prepare for Emergency Evacuation – Douglas County Sheriff David A. Weaver and the Office of Emergency Management remind all residents of Douglas County to think about the possibility of an emergency evacuation from their homes. Some mandatory evacuation orders and pre-evacuation orders for residents living in…
Meridian Village will be the new home to American Academy’s second campus for the 2013-2014 school year. Article and photo by Kathy Dunker On Tuesday, June 5, the Douglas County Board of Education (DCBOE) unanimously approved American Academy’s (AA’s) application to replicate. The school plans to open the new doors to their second campus in…
The new Cabela’s 110,000 sq. ft. store at RidgeGate Commons is expected to start construction this fall and be completed in 2013. By Elizabeth Wood West with site plan provided by Coventry Development Corporation and sketch plan provided by Cabela’s Cabela’s, arguably the world’s largest retail supplier of hunting, fishing, camping, and outdoor-related merchandise, will…
Submitted by Lane Roberts, Castle Pines Athletics Castle Pines Athletics is excited to announce the addition of co-ed flag football, coming to the Castle Pines community in September. The season is set to run September 7 to October 21, and will be held on Fridays or Sundays at Elk Ridge Park and Daniel’s Gate Park…
Submitted by Colorado State Fire Chiefs With the intense wildfires raging across the state, the Colorado State Fire Chiefs are pleading with residents to abide by the state-wide burn ban in effect and don’t use fireworks. More than 14 fires are burning in the state using a great amount of resources. In 2010, fireworks caused…
By Elean Gersack Returning families and those who have previously enrolled at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) are invited to check-in online beginning Monday, July 23. All school forms and payments need to be completed electronically via the Parent Portal no later than the first day of school, Monday, August 13. New families interested…
By Chris Bonham The results are in! On June 26, Republicans in Douglas County selected Roger Partridge as their candidate for County Commissioner District 2, which serves the greater Castle Pines community. Partridge beat out his Republican opponent Randy Reed by a narrow 316 votes. Partridge will face Democratic nominee Terry Krow in the General…
2012 Ducky Derby first place winner Heather Wood with husband Robert Wood, daughter Haylee, and son Landon. By Elizabeth Wood West with photos by Julie Montoya The 16th Annual Ducky Derby and street festival far exceeded the expectations of Rotarians from the Castle Pines Rotary Club, the Castle Rock Rotary Club, and the Castle Rock…
Douglas County and the City of Lone Tree cordially invite you to celebrate the opening of the 3.1 mile East West Regional Trail Extension – from Bluffs Regional Park to the RidgeGate Interchange. The all-season trail surface is designed for pedestrian, equestrian and cycling usage. The opening will be held at Bluffs Regional Park, 10099…
Article and photo by Liane Marette Davis With more than 18 years of combined superior culinary experience and service, chef/owner Richard Esper and executive chef/partner Alec Erickson teamed together to bring you a place where the creativity in their cuisine and commitment to your experience in dining shine. Elevation 5900 is located on Mainstreet in…
Koby Dudley of Winter Berry may be following in his father’s footsteps as a top-notch high jumper. Submitted By Parker Panthers Secretly tucked inside the Winter Berry neighborhood is a former Olympic-caliber high jumper named Jason Dudley. While the Dudley family has lived in Castle Pines for nearly ten years, not many residents are privy…
A quick photo of friends before the 2012 Bolder Boulder 10K begins from left to right), Tanya McNellis, Corey McNellis, Melissa Sebold, Scott Davis and Castle Pines Connection staff writer Liane Davis. By Liane Marette Davis If you don’t have plans for Memorial Day next year, mark your calendar now to participate in the Bolder…
These incoming Sixth grade girls are excited to begin middle school at Rocky Heights Middle School in the fall. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan Incoming sixth grade students at Rocky heights Middle School (RHMS) have the opportunity to participate in the Nighthawk Early Flight program offered by the school on July 31, August 1…
By executive order of Govenor Hickenlooper and Douglas County Sheriff David Weaver This year, absolutely no fireworks will be allowed in Douglas County, including legal fireworks and professional fireworks displays. The Board of County Commissioners for Douglas Country has issued a Stage 2 Fire Ban for all of Douglas County, banning all personal fireworks displays…
The historic Schweiger Ranch, located south of Lincoln Avenue on the east side of I-25 at RidgeGate Parkway (frontage road), is now open to the public. By Elizabeth Wood West with photos provided by Darryl Jones, Coventry Development Corporation After several years of extensive restoration efforts, the historic Schweiger Ranch at RidgeGate is open to…
Sean Nasseth received a new lap top computer and was congratulated by the District Attorney, Carol Chambers. By Amy Shanahan, photos courtesy of the Office of the District Attorney The District Attorney’s office covering Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln counties recently held its annual art contest for middle school students. Each year, the winning 13…
European Charm: The Lowry Beer Garden, open close to home The Lowry Beer Garden is located at 7577 E. Academy Blvd, Denver. For information, visit www.lowrybeergarden.com. By Julie Montoya with photos courtesy of the Kirsten Becker, Lowry Beer Garden public relations Tucked under the wing of an authentic B52 bomber, outside the entrance to the…
The Country Club at Castle Pines revealed its multi-million dollar renovation and expansion project to guests at an open house on June16. (Photo courtesy of JimmysPhoto.com) By Amy Shanahan, photos courtesy of Peter Cranstone The Country Club at Castle Pines (CCCP) is full of new beginnings, and Saturday June 16 was testimony to how impressive…
By Elizabeth Wood West with rendering provided by the Town of Castle Rock The Town of Castle Rock may have a new colorful LED sign along I-25, just south of Wilcox Street and Plum Creek Parkway, to welcome visitors and dazzle drivers. The 45 ft. tall LED sign will belong to Medved Autoplex (Medved), located…
More than 90 girls from kindergarten through sixth grade participated at the RCHS poms cheer camp last month in the Jaguar gymnasium. The next clinic will be held October 17 and 18 for kindergarten through eighth grade girls. For information, contact Terri Bell by e-mail rtbellfamily@hotmail.com. Photos by Stacia Wilkins The 80’s theme Junior Jag…
Article by Kathy Dunker with photos by Stacia Wilkins On Sunday, May 6, approximately 20 girls from Starstruck Academy of Dance put their dancing hearts to work. After a grueling weekend of late nights at the Tribute Dance Competition in Colorado Springs, the girls, ranging in age from 10 to 18, enthusiastically got up and…
By Elizabeth Wood West “In 2005, the Castle Pines Metropolitan District (CPMD) began working with Douglas County Engineering (DCE) consultants to address road safety and speeding concerns at the gated intersections on Happy Canyon Road in Castle Pines Village. At the request of DCE staff member Robert Kenny, roundabouts were added to the plan. According…
Contributed by Douglas County Libraries It’s no secret that kids who read during the summer months fare better on fall reading tests than kids who don’t. A great way to keep them reading is to participate in the Summer Reading Program at Douglas County Libraries. Beginning June 1, register the whole family online at DouglasCountyLibraries.org…
By Amy Shanahan, photo courtesy of BrynMaRae Photography The Castle Pines Connection covered a story in the December 2011 issue about “Homes for Our Troops,” and the recipient of a new home, retired Corporal Nick Orchowski. “Homes for Our Troops” is a nationwide, non-profit organization, which builds specially adapted homes for post-9/11 veterans with disabilities.…
Article and photos by Kathy Dunker Sunday, May 20, was the annual Castle Crocs summer swim team kick-off party at Coyote Ridge Park. The team moved up to the A Division this year in the Mountain High Swim League and look forward to some great competition at the upcoming meets. The Crocs, in its seventh…
Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski For those of you who have not yet discovered Elk Ridge Park, once you do, it may become your family’s go-to park of the summer. It has state-of-the art play areas, a multipurpose turf sport field, a water feature, as well as a rock climbing wall and picnic pavilions.…
Article and photos by Lisa Crockett Pennies, dimes and nickels. They’re worth so little that most of us let them sit around the house gathering dust in an old jar or lining the underside of the couch cushions. But students in Castle Pines recently went on a mission to recover small change around their homes.…
By Jodi Anderson with photos courtesy of DCSM What an exhilarating, energizing time of year for DCS Montessori (DCSM)! This Spring has been filled with so much activity as we wrap up the school year. Our DCSM music teacher, Lorraine Cooper, and our fifth graders, presented a musical extravaganza for the school that was designed…
By Lisa Crockett, courtesy photos Colorado isn’t often known for high-fashion exclusives, but this spring the Denver Art Museum (DAM) is temporary home to a special retrospective collection of fashion design by iconic designer Yves Saint Laurent. The DAM is the only United States venue for the collection. Bringing the excitement of the exhibit even…
Submitted by Lane Roberts Castle Pines Athletics is hosting a summer basketball skills camp July 23 to July 27 at the DCS Montessori School in Castle Pines. The camp will be held from 9 a.m. to noon, and is open to children of all skill levels who are entering Kindergarten through fifth grade. Children will…
Earl Jackson (center right with tan shirt and black pants) is pictured surrounded by Castle Pines Village neighbors who came out to show him their support on his final day of work. “I’m going to miss Mr. Jackson so much! He had such a great attitude, and always made people feel welcome. I loved talking…
By Patte Smith, illustration from South Metro Fire Authority publication Seeing plumes of smoke not far from homes in the Castle Pines and surrounding area definitely puts residents on edge and worried about their properties. With fire season here, firefighters and residents need to be on alert for the possibility of a fire. Homeowners need…
By Elizabeth Wood-West According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments respond to more than 60,000 home structure fires that involve home heating equipment each year. Annually, these fires cause an average of more than 550 deaths, 1,600 civilian fire injuries, and approximately $900 million in direct property damage. What exactly is…
Article by Chris Bonham Summer is almost upon us, and, as the school year ends, many students are caught up in the thrill of graduation, prom activities, and all the fun with friends and family that is associated with the upcoming months. However, as summer approaches, some students may be looking ahead towards college and…
By order of Sheriff David A. Weaver, stage two fire restrictions have been rescinded. Stage one fire restrictions are still in effect. General guidance on stage one restrictions: Prohibited activities include open burning of any kind, and the use and sale of fireworks; Allowable activities include: Fires within liquid-fueled or gas-fueled stoves, fireplaces within buildings,…
Contributed by South Suburban Parks and Recreation District South Suburban Park and Recreation District is offering a specially priced summer pass from May 26 – September 3 at its four recreation centers and four outdoor pools. Unlimited fun all summer long at Goodson, Buck, Sheridan, and Lone Tree recreation centers and at Harlow, Franklin, Holly,…
Article by Julie Montoya, with photo submitted by Rick Rivers For more then 10 years, Castle Pines Village resident Rick Rivers has been committed to the fight against breast cancer. Rivers’ mother is a breast cancer survivor, and being a father of four daughters, including two granddaughters, breast cancer awareness is a subject that is…
By Elizabeth Wood West; photo provided by Dave Roberts After working in large veterinarian practices for decades, long-time veterinarian Dr. Dave Roberts of Plum Creek Veterinary Services has downsized his practice into a clinic on wheels – an actual mobile van featuring a full laboratory and surgical facilities. Roberts explained, “The mobile allows me to…
Article and photo by Liz Jurkowski What kid does not like a sweet treat after school on a hot and sunny day? Twice in recent weeks, students at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) were greeted out the walker door by the cherished Kona Ice Truck. Kona Ice of Castle Rock serves cones of shaved ice with…
Article by Amy Shanahan Castle Pines Jewelers owner and designer Jeffrey Rein and his daughter Lacee feel strongly about giving back to their community. Several years ago, they began donating the money they charged to change watch batteries to non-profit organizations. “We charge $10 to change watch batteries, and that full amount is passed on,”…
Rocky Heights Middle School was pleased to induct 48 incoming eighth grade students into the National Junior Honor Society. These students all achieved a GPA of 3.75 or higher and are active in school activities and community service projects. Congratulations to these outstanding students!
Article and photo by Amy Shanahan The story of “High School Musical” revolves around a star basketball player and a math genius who share a secret love for performing, but struggle with breaking out of their designated roles. This story came to life at Rocky Heights Middle School as 125 kids came together to tell…
The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce is hosting a golf tournament on Thursday, July 26 at Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course in Castle Rock. Shotgun start begins at 8 a.m., so don’t be late! Cost is $120 per person, which includes green fees, cart, range balls, lunch buffet, free drink ticket, and an opportunity to…
Article by Lisa Crockett, courtesy photos The Douglas County Federation of Teachers (DCF) awarded outstanding students from throughout the district for their achievements this school year. Castle Pines-area schools were well represented with students who display academic prowess as well as good citizenship. Students were honored at a banquet in May, and a tribute written…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett “I matter.” This statement echoed through the halls of Timber Trail Elementary School (TTE) during a week-long series of events designed to get students thinking about the feelings of others and strategies for engendering community and good feelings. “We wanted to take a proactive stance against bullying in our…