Read the stories from the latest issue:
In the halls of Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) and Rock Canyon High School (RCHS), twins Darryl and Patric McGowan are known for more than their wrestling expertise—they have become trusted mentors who help students grow as athletes and individuals. The McGowans’ journey began ten years ago when Darryl’s son joined the RHMS wrestling team.…
Residents of The Canyons neighborhood in the City of Castle Pines now have a new place to gather, socialize and engage in a variety of activities in the neighborhood. A new clubhouse, The Canyon House, is now open and features a range of amenities that cater to all ages, including a full-service restaurant, gym, movement…
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) Deputy Cordell Dugan has a new beat—traffic deputy for the City of Castle Pines (City). Not having a police force of its own, the City contracts with DCSO for law enforcement services. Of the nine DCSO deputies assigned to patrol here, Dugan is the only one to specifically handle traffic.…
Looking to recycle your live Christmas tree after the holiday season? Douglas County offers free tree recycling services. Locations nearby include: Bayou Gulch, 4815 Fox Sparrow Road, Parker Challenger Regional Park, 17299 E. Lincoln Ave., Parker Fairgrounds Regional Park, 500 Fairgrounds Drive, Castle Rock Highland Heritage Regional Park, 9651 S. Quebec St., Highlands Ranch If…
Special thanks to all our readers who have sent in photos of the antler-less elk statue in Elk Ridge Park these past couple months. In the holiday spirit, our neighborhood friend received some temporary antlers from a kind and creative anonymous community member. According to City Manager Michael Penny, the City is aware and has…
There has been a movement across the country of communities wanting a single, unique ZIP code within their boundaries. The City of Castle Pines was among the leaders in this effort. Bill H. R. 8753, sponsored by Colorado Representative Lauren Boebert, requested 51 communities across the country, including Castle Pines and 10 other places in…
Starting January 1, there is a new law in effect in Colorado banning the use of mobile electronic devices (such as cell phones) while driving. This applies not only to texting, but also to voice calls, GPS and other apps. Instead, all drivers must use a hands-free accessory if they want to access their electronics…
On December 17, 2024 Kevin Van Winkle took the oath of office, having recently been elected to the office of Douglas County Commissioner for District III. Prior to his role as a County Commissioner, Kevin served in the State Senate since June 2022. Prior to his time in the Senate, he served the people of…
Following the resignation of Mayor Pro Tem and District 2 Councilman Ben Price, Castle Pines City Council appointed The Retreat resident Kori Salazar to fill the District 2 vacancy for a one-year term, and current District 1 Councilman Chris Eubanks was appointed as mayor pro tem. Salazar followed an application and interview process open to…
To celebrate the holidays, The Castle Pines Connection team gathered for an evening of cheer at the Business Foundry, a co-working and event space in Lone Tree. Live music by Teressa Mahoney, food catered by Silver Spoons, stockings hung with care, and a holiday photo booth were just a part of the night’s fun. Staff,…
The 2024 BMW Championship, held at the Castle Pines Golf Club, was named “Tournament of the Year” for a record sixth time. The tournament was also honored with the award for “Best Tournament Sales.” Nine PGA TOUR tournaments were recognized with “Best Of” awards for last year’s PGA TOUR Season at the TOUR’s annual Tournament…
The post office on Village Square Lane is now able to scan QR codes for customers who are returning packages that have U.S. Postal Service (USPS) tracking. For years, customers were turned away, but recent software updates have granted the service to the smaller, contract post offices. “We are thrilled to now have the ability…
The Rotary Club of Castle Pines (RCCP) hosted Erin Kane, superintendent of the Douglas County School District (DCSD), at a November meeting. Kane provided a “State of the District” overview: DCSD was rated the top scoring district in the Denver/Metro area and is rated #11 on the list of the 250 “most envied” school…
A group of women business owners living in The Canyons neighborhood have formed a networking group. The aim is to create a collaborative space where members can share ideas, celebrate successes and build a sense of community. “We thought it would be good to bring like-minded women together in a social setting who can support…
Camille and Tim Demetrion have lived in the Greenbriar neighborhood for nine years and have two children, Jon and Emersyn. They met first in 2011 over a secretary desk. Tim had just moved to Colorado and his family here suggested he check out the consignment store, Design Repeats, in Centennial to furnish his new place.…
Gary and Paula Ellermann, newcomers to The Village at Castle Pines, met in high school in New Orleans. Gary reflected, “Paula crushed me in high school. I was already insecure!” Paula’s family relocated to Colorado, where she finished high school and attended college at Colorado State University. Meanwhile, Gary was attending Louisiana Tech (LT), majoring…
Over the last three years and as The Canyons neighborhood began to blossom into a community, a book club was born. Christy Hardt and Susan Capone were two of the original members of five. Today, the group, which originally met at The Exchange Coffee House, has evolved to 20 ladies who gather at each other’s…
Kids need adults who care. Kiwanis International is a club that consists of a local group of volunteers who serve their communities around the world. The members strive to be a positive influence on youth. The Village at Castle Pines resident Chris Scurto is one of those volunteers. He is enthusiastic about today’s youth and…
In late November, after twelve years, seven months and eleven days of ownership, Donna and Gary Stern sold MiYO (Make it Your Own) Cafe to new owners. With its sunny patio and comfort food, MiYO has been a bustling cornerstone in the Village Shops and a place to enjoy a meal surrounded by friendly faces…
Most of us could not find the Isle of Man on a map, but The Canyons residents Yvette and Paul Watson hail from the small island in the United Kingdom (UK). The Watsons met in high school, and after graduation began working at the same company. Yvette was a global product manager in travel software…
Post-holidays can summon feelings of a letdown, emotional drain and financial stress. All of this, coupled with an already anxious society, begs for self-check-ins in the new year. Southeast Counseling Center (SCC) in Parker is available to help. Originally launched in 2010 at Southeast Christian Church by care pastor Peter Barber, the program was housed…
The Castle Pines Connection has teamed up with local businesses Camp Bow Wow – Castle Rock, Hike Doggie Denver South, Lone Tree Veterinary Medical Center and The Pet Stuff Place to bring you the twelfth annual Cutest Pet in the Pines contest. We invite you to share your digitally-captured pet adventures with us. Send in…
One joy of living in Castle Pines is the wildlife sharing our neighborhood. This includes the black bears that we sometimes spot nearby. Despite their name, black bears are a variety of colors: honey, blond, cinnamon, brown and black. Sometimes people mistake the brown and cinnamon-colored bears for grizzly bears, but there are no known…
Trixie is an adorable combination of Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier with an appearance that is not only cute and cuddly but reflects the best of both breeds. Known as the Shorkie, her personality is as big as she is spunky. Trixie is a 4-and-a-half-month-old pup that has filled the house and warmed the hearts…
Four ladies in The Canyons neighborhood meet every other Thursday for fellowship and to play Mahjong, a 19th century game with 144 tiles that originated in China. “My dad taught me how to play his favorite game, and my neighbors wanted to learn, so we started a regular Mahjong meet-up,” stated Susan Bicket. Although there…
Last year, starting in January with a kick-off beginning November 1 and official Giving Day on December 10, a record-breaking amount of more than $2 million was raised for 268 participating Douglas County nonprofits, including a wide range of organizations – from support of our aging community and youth mental health to equine therapy and…
Dear Mrs. A, We served many meals and many friends and family during the holidays, but we’re curious about ways to serve meals in our home moving into the New Year. – Happy to host in The Hamlet Dear Happy, I love that you are curious about this, and I just had this discussion with…
We celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on the third Monday of this month. Acknowledging the foundations of civil rights and equality that King preached, we pause as a nation to celebrate King and the other civil rights activists who unceasingly fought for a better life for African Americans. The fight is…
Colorado living: With 119 years of history and tradition, the National Western Stock Show (NWSS) is a Colorado icon. A nationally recognized western heritage and entertainment event, the show runs for 16 days every January. Prior to the first NWSS in 1906, there were several small stock shows in Denver. The Denver Blood Stock Association…
The City of Castle Pines and the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce brought together the community again this year for Winter Wonderland. The night’s events included face painting, crafts, visits with reindeer, carolers, dance exhibitions and photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The evening came to a glorious close with the lighting of the tree…
Crossword brought to you by Allstate Insurance — Tammy Lopez (720) 733-1331 Across 1. Island country in southern Europe 6. Distressed cry 10. Polish, as shoes 14. Nitrogen compound 15. Small wild ox 16. ___ of Man 17. Tree that grows near creeks 19. Flying formations 20. Cryptocurrency abbrev. 21. PC linkup 22.…
Perhaps the most recognizable tree in Colorado, an aspen in the wild is only a small part of a larger organism connected by an extensive root system. In a single stand or “clone” of trees, the trees are all genetic replicas. The Pando clone in Utah’s Fishlake National Forest is the largest and oldest known…
The Esperanza neighborhood organized its first turkey trot on Thanksgiving morning. More than 35 participants traveled the one-mile loop, which began on Esperanza Drive, continued up Daniels Gate Road to Monarch Boulevard then returned home, where hot chocolate, mimosas and donuts awaited. Kids who crossed the finish line received medals. Passing cars honked and waved…
Television series like Yellowstone, with its stunning backdrops, paint a grand picture of a dynastic family. Though it was Henry Persse who promoted the area as a resort it was another family, the Helmers, that found ways to make Roxborough’s resources work for them. Franz and Judith (Scholl) Helmer were Austrians by birth. Like…
We often share our life stories with loved ones: friends or family or maybe in a journal. But it was a gift given to Knightsbridge neighbor and Castle Pines Connection graphic designer Tim Gamble, that had him reflecting on all of his past experiences when he wrote and published Funny You Should Ask …Tim…
Tap-tap. Tap-tap. This is a sound some residents have become quite accustomed to—the pecking of a woodpecker on their house. These birds can cause damage by drilling holes in wood siding and stucco, and can create quite a racket by hammering on almost any part of the house, even seeking out metal surfaces for maximum…
Legacy Village residents and guests shared in a community Christmas luncheon and holiday celebration filled with festive fun. The halls were decked, carols were sung by the Dickens Carolers and participants took selfies with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. “It was a wonderful time for family and friends to join in the holiday fun with the…
I have decided to love January. It is a season of turning inward, a chance to reset and regain my focus. There’s something so refreshing about putting all the holiday décor away, giving the floors a mop, and taking stock of what I’ve spent the last year storing in the closets, the cupboards and even…
Delaney Stafford is excited about all the incredible things 2025 will usher in. The high school senior plans to cherish every day she has left with her classmates and friends at Valor Christian High School (VCHS)—especially her remaining time on the lacrosse team. The Ventana neighbor has much to celebrate, overcoming cancer as a child,…
As the new year begins, the excitement and joy of the holiday season now passed, the long, cold winter months ahead can start to feel daunting. For Coloradans, avoiding cabin fever can be quite easy, as any adrenaline junkie or winter sport enthusiast would agree. Take to the slopes, strap on a pair of skis…
Reflecting on the past year and looking forward to the new year can be powerful motivators to set a fresh course with personal milestones in mind. Whether your goals are related to your health, finances, career or relationships, experts agree that success, no matter how small, is more likely with SMART goals, the acronym for…
January is peak season for citrus fruits, so why not bring a burst of sunshine to winter days? This sweet-sour, brightly colored group of fruits offers many health benefits and is easy to include in many recipes. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and keeps skin smooth…
For the second year in a row, Rock Canyon High School’s (RCHS) junior varsity (JV) cheerleaders won the statewide contest in the co-ed routine. The competition, called the State Spirit Challenge, is hosted by Flip and Shout Competitions and is held every December at the Denver Coliseum. “RCHS JV cheer has amazing strength and they…
Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) is home to champion wrestlers. This year’s team made school history by going undefeated and winning the Douglas County School District’s (DCSD) middle school tournament. District competitions are the highest-level of wrestling tournaments within DCSD. Eighth-grader Mason Enquist won first place in his weight class every year of middle school.…
Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) recently took fourth grade students on a field trip to the History Colorado Center in downtown Denver. The annual outing is one of two activities culminating the semester-long social studies unit on the history of Colorado. The other event is the Colorado Days celebration which took place on December 17.…
The Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) varsity dance team won in the state competition for the second year in a row. This is the seventh state win for the program; RCHS dance holds the most state titles in sports at RCHS. “This year’s varsity Dance Team is a dream team,” stated coach Christina Leone who…
The Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) music program spread joy throughout the school and community this past holiday season. On December 6, and led by choir instructor Camille Ringenberg, the students performed for the school and then for their families who joined in for favorite songs like “Fifty Nifty United States” and “The Bat.” Fourth grade…
Last fall, third graders at Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) learned economics and empathy through Project Based Learning and Social Emotional Learning programs. This annual class curriculum not only teaches students how to budget, save and prioritize, it allows them to practice kindness and generosity by helping a family or two in need during the holidays.…
Before the holidays, American Academy (AA) hosted an all-school toy drive for A Precious Child (APC), a nonprofit based in Colorado that helps families living in poverty. At the end of the two-week toy drive, AA collected more than 1,300 new toys. “It was incredibly impressive to see everything come together on the last day,”…
Landing a perfect golf shot As the peak months of play for the golf season quickly give in to winter, avid golfers may wonder how they can feed their kind of green diet. Vinay Patidar, owner of Over Flyte Denver, invites locals and visitors to come experience indoor golf simulators and work on their golf…
Kiran and Seshu Velpuri have lived in Colorado for more than half of their lives and would not change their path together. They have embraced American culture while also keeping with their native country’s traditions. “Seshu and I came from India, but Colorado is our home,” said Kiran. “It’s been a good mix.” The couple…
Have you recently noticed work on transmission lines around Castle Pines? Xcel Energy is rebuilding approximately 25 miles of 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission lines connecting the Palmer Lake, Castle Rock, Crowfoot Valley, Happy Canyon and Daniels Park substations in Douglas County. This includes work on the lines that go through areas of Castle Pines. The transmission lines…
The Canyons will soon be home to a new private clubhouse and open-to-the-public restaurant, the Canyon House. Located adjacent to the community’s swimming pool just north of The Exchange Coffee + Conversation, the Canyon House will be the future hub for community events, fitness and recreation. Look for a future article in The Connection for…
During the City of Castle Pines council meeting in November, the City Council approved Phase 1 improvements to Coyote Ridge Park. Improvements were based on feedback collected during the 2024-2025 public engagement process about future park planning. These improvements, estimated to cost nearly $4 million, focus on enhancements in three areas: Accessibility and mobility improvements…
In October, Castle Pines was one of ten communities honored by Communities of Excellence 2026 (COE26), a nonprofit organization that hosts a learning collaborative of communities across the country. COE26 trains communities in the Baldrige-based Communities of Excellence framework, which provides opportunities for communities to work together, share successes, challenges, ideas and best practices. This…
Listed below are recommended send-by dates for expected delivery before Wednesday, December 25. For items sent to addresses in the contiguous United States (lower 48 states): First-Class mail service: Dec. 18 Ground Advantage service: Dec. 18 Priority Mail service: Dec. 19 Priority Mail Express service: Dec. 21 For items sent to addresses in Alaska and…
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) is taking steps to enhance public safety in Castle Pines by increasing the number of deputies on patrol and dedicating more resources to traffic enforcement. Sheriff Darren Weekly has responded to concerns voiced by residents, particularly about speeding, aggressive driving and the need for better traffic control in the…
Douglas County Libraries (DCL) announced the recent installation of whimsical, outdoor art at its Castle Rock location, 100 S. Wilcox Street. The playful pieces add a fresh burst of creativity to the library’s Aloha Plaza East. Designed by Jeffie Brewer of Nacogdoches, Texas, the sculptures serve as an inviting focal point for visitors to enjoy…
5280+ Senior Corales at Parker Advanced Integrative Medicine AdventHealth Castle Rock A Five Star Limousine Alice + Kate Boutique Bakery American Academy Anderson Farms Andraos Construction AriClean Art & Soul LLC – Holistic Expos As You Wish Audience of One Youth Theater Barrett Financial Group Bath Tune-Up of Castle Rock Big Life Integrative Health Black…
The Rotary Club of Castle Pines (RCCP) hosted Major General Jerry E. White at a September gathering: 9/11 Remembered and Reevaluated. The commemoration, held at Cielo at Castle Pines, celebrated the military career of General White and recognized the service men and women affected by the terrorist attack. More than 70 guests attended, including community…
Vaquero resident Karen Johnson has been working passionately for two decades to bring tenants in need of sober living to group homes for their recovery. Karen is currently working with Oxford House, a nonprofit dedicated to this cause. She described her position within the housing plan as “being the middle link,” connecting individuals to housing…
The Burns family loves baseball, the Los Angeles Dodgers, specifically. And it was no better year to be a Dodgers fan than this one. Village residents since 2016, Brian and Mindy with children Cora, Wyatt, Carter and Graham are obsessed with the Dodgers. It all started in southern California. Brian grew up in LA and…
Stop the Bleed is a national program that teaches non-medical professionals the basic skills and techniques to stop someone from bleeding out after an accident or traumatic incident. It is a 90-minute class that is like a CPR certification; neither are intended as full medical training. The class “empowers people to help themselves and help…
Brenda Djorup is the essence of the Proverbs phrase, a woman who is “clothed in strength and dignity.” Brenda has experienced loss probably more than most: her previous husband, three siblings and her son. Despite these tragedies, she loves life and gets up every day with hope for a joyful day. With her gentle faith,…
The World Health Organization did a study that found that expatriate retirees live longer, healthier lives compared to their western counterparts. Erma and Bill Huston embody this notion; they traveled the globe for 30 years to find the secret to happiness and a fulfilling retirement. “Follow your geography of bliss to plant roots,” said Bill.…
Remember Cale Williams? He is the 17-year-old Rock Canyon High School senior from the Forest Park neighborhood who shared his story of faith, friendship and overcoming cancer with The Connection in 2022. He wanted to say thank you to all those who rallied and prayed alongside him. This fall, Cale decided his Eagle Scout project…
The longest night of the year is December 21. Historically, cultures around the world mark the winter solstice with fear and trepidation: creating celebrations of light to banish the dark; or with an attitude of hope and renewal: observing the gradual beginning of longer days. We feel the dichotomy of endings and new beginnings. So,…
Baking goodies and celebrating with family and friends are common traditions for the holiday season. But Colorado is home to some other unique traditions, too. NORAD tracks Santa In 1955, a misprinted phone number from a newspaper sent young callers to the Continental Air Defense Command Operations Center in Colorado Springs instead of to Santa…
Douglas County Libraries (DCL) presented its Forest of Stories for the third year in a row: 175 Christmas trees decorated with book themes that are displayed throughout the seven county libraries. The Forest of Stories serves as a festive way to promote books and reading. With growing popularity for the tradition, DCL has expanded its…