Read the stories from the latest issue:
Isabella “Izzy” Holsman, a born-and-raised Vaquero resident, began her senior year at UC Boulder this fall with a flash. An undergraduate Art Practices major, Izzy was accepted into the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program for photography. Only a few art students apply for the BFAs instead of the typical Bachelor of Arts; the BFA…
In the past, Tri-County Health Department ran a pop-up hazardous waste collection for Douglas County residents. The Tri-County Health Department was dissolved at the end of 2022. After that, hazardous waste collection was taken over by the Douglas County Household Hazardous Waste Collection program, which provides year-round household pickups of household hazardous waste through Waste…
Parker Water & Sanitation District (PWSD), the water district for The Canyons neighborhood, has been named the Safest District of the Year by the Colorado Special Districts Property and Liability Pool (CSD). The CSD, an organization made up of more than 1,500 member districts that oversee water, sanitation, fire rescue, parks and recreation and…
Lucent Boulevard in Highlands Ranch, the stretch of roadway from County Line to South Broadway, will soon be renamed Kendrick Castillo Way. The Board of Douglas County Commissioners approved the request from the Kendrick Castillo Memorial Oversight Committee at a public hearing in August. On May 7, 2019, Kendrick (18) was a high school senior…
As the community continues to grow, there is an increased need for extraordinary park spaces for residents. As a result, the City of Castle Pines (City) began work to develop two park project master plans in 2023: the rejuvenation and expansion of Coyote Ridge Park and a new park known as Soaring Hawk Park in…
JulieAnna Reinhardt started her own interior design business in January, but her journey to the Castle Valley neighborhood began decades ago. Born and raised in southern California, JulieAnna did a lot of volunteering. So much in fact, that in 1989 she received the award for youth volunteer of the year for Los Angeles County…
Music is an integral part of Andrea Ross Batson’s life today, as it was throughout her childhood. Born and raised in the south, Andrea was influenced from a young age by the church and gospel music, both of which developed her passion for singing and playing the piano. In 2019, Andrea’s musical talents followed her…
Kim, David and Brooke Becker are relative newcomers to Castle Pines. They bought a house in the Knightsbridge neighborhood in 2022, moving from southern California. “It was hard to give up the beach but I knew as long as the mountains had lakes and streams – a water component – I would be fine,” Kim…
Lisa Linn is having a banner year. She and her husband, Brandon, are toasting their 25th wedding anniversary; the family business, Brandon Linn Orthodontics in Castle Pines and Highlands Ranch, has been straightening teeth for 20 years; and Lisa is celebrating being seven years cancer free. Lisa and Brandon met in Vail 30 years ago.…
The Douglas County Community Foundation (DCCF) held its second annual Heroes Gala honoring first responders, armed forces members, veterans and the nonprofit partner organizations that support these brave heroes. Roughly 650 guests enjoyed a beautiful Colorado evening at Centennial Airport in the exclusive Signature Aviation private jet hangar on Friday, September 13. The unforgettable night…
Emily Davenport is passionate about wildlife. As a certified wildlife rehabilitator with nearly two decades of veterinary experience, she recognizes the importance of having relationships with others in her field. In 2017, she founded the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance (RMWA) to foster professional collaboration. In 2022, she took a big risk and took it a…
October divides those of us who like ghost stories and the thrill of a jump scare and those who want to enjoy a pumpkin patch, maybe with a pumpkin spice latte, and the autumn colors. If being frightened sounds fun, there are many haunted houses and ghost tours to choose from that are close by,…
Treat-or-treat time is almost here, and that means candy, spooky decorations and lots of pumpkins. Most pumpkins are orange, of course, but this Halloween you might spot ones that are teal, blue, purple or pink. What is that about? Teal – In 2012, the mother of a child with severe food allergies painted a pumpkin…
Civil War veteran Chester Leach and his wife, Lucy, were among the early settlers in Denver, brought here by a team of oxen. Their son Clarence was born in 1872. Anna Katrina Foss, Clarence’s wife-to-be, was born about the same time in Norway. She came to the United States in 1893. Clarence and Anna Katrina…
In addition to reading materials, Douglas County Libraries (DCL) card holders have access to all sorts of educational and fun perks. You can even check out a variety of gadgets and electronics. Library card holders do not pay any fee to DCL for these accommodations. Here is a taste of what you can find at…
Dear Mrs. A, Could you help us understand the concept of Scruffy Hospitality? – Entertaining in The Hamlet Remember when an invitation to dinner came printed in the mail? The guest list was carefully curated, the hostess met you at the door, seating arrangements were crucial, dress codes were important, people brought out their finest…
Horror and thriller books have been around for centuries. Beginning with the rise of Gothic literature in the mid-18th century, the first horror book was The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole, published in 1765. Other notable early scary stories include Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1818) and The Tell-Tale Heart from Edgar Allan Poe (1843). Horror…
As sweet as a cup of hot chocolate, the Sanford family pup, Cocoa, warms hearts with her gentle playfulness, constant wagging tail and energetic spirit. Her soft brown coat with a touch of white looked to Leyna (13) and Tyler (9) like a hot cocoa marshmallow when they were introduced to Cocoa in December 2019.…
This crossword brought to you by Allstate Insurance – Tammy Lopez (720) 733-1331 Across 1. Precious stones 5. Chapter in history 8. Lucky trinket 13. The Beehive State 14. Jack-o’-lantern feature 15. Prefix for “sun” 16. It’s hailed by city dwellers 17. Em, to Dorothy 18. “You ___ kidding!” 19. Pepita 22. Protagonist of…
‘Tis the season to eat … and drink, and smell, and even wear … pumpkin. I, for one, am all in favor of this 24/7 approach to the consumption of pumpkin. I know some people think it is boring and basic, but I’m a firm believer that boring and basic are fine as long…
The Castle Rock Downtown Alliance (CRDA) is host to some fun outings this month. Want to skip a night in the kitchen? Restaurant Week is October 6-12 and the participating restaurants (listed below) will create a special menu for the week, serving dishes not on the regular menu. Participating restaurants include: Angie’s Restaurant, Arayes Grill,…
Jackfruit is remarkable for the multitude of health benefits it offers, its sustainability and its culinary versatility. The tropical fruit has been called a miracle food and is popping up on menus as demand grows. Have you tried jackfruit tacos or jackfruit barbecue yet? A species of tree in the fig, mulberry and breadfruit…
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held every October, aims to educate people about breast cancer risk factors, encourage women to schedule screenings, support people diagnosed with breast cancer and fundraise for breast cancer research. Despite advances, breast cancer remains the number one cancer among women, according to the University of Colorado Cancer Center. In Colorado, one…
Last summer, we reported on scuba diver David Moore aiming to be the oldest diver to conquer Pacific Tarn, the lake with the highest elevation in the United States (13,420 feet), and the first to dive the lake without relying on anyone for dive support. Due to inclement weather last year, the dive was postponed…
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) Deputy Jared Walter loves his job. Jared is the School Resource Officer (SRO) for Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS). A career in law enforcement was not always his plan, but Jared cannot think of anything else he would rather do. Born and raised in Elizabeth, Jared and his family…
The Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) held its second annual Back-to-School Bash on August 23 for all students, families and staff. DJ Daniel Garcia spun the latest hits while food trucks, Colorado Pig Rig and Moontime Crepes provided the fare. The school grounds turned into a big playground with games and face…
The Douglas County School District (DCSD) Board of Education authorized a $490 million bond for the November ballot due to rapid population growth and an urgent need for new schools and capital maintenance needs. The BOE voted unanimously, 7-0, at the August meeting. If approved by voters next month, the bond would not increase taxes…
Buffalo Ridge Elementary families gathered for the annual back to school carnival. A fundraiser for Buffalo Ridge Elementary Alliance (the parent teacher association), the carnival is a favorite event for all. Activities included bouncy houses, Nerf wars, carnival games, face painting, a dunk tank, a cake walk, jugglers, and exploring the inside of a firetruck…
At the beginning of the school year, Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) hosted a club fair offering students a chance to explore the many extracurricular options available. With more than 80 clubs, RCHS provides opportunities for students to engage with others, develop leadership skills and further their interests. From academics to the arts, business interests…
Shared Dreams to the Fullest A bucket list is an inventory of items that you want to accomplish in your lifetime before you “kick the bucket.” That was the inspiration behind Bucket List Tavern. As brothers and long-time Colorado natives Jeff and Joel Glentzer explained, “Our shared dream is to help people live their bucket…
Until the late 1970s, moose sightings in Colorado were rare. Records dating back to the 1850s mention a few moose wandering from the Wyoming area into northern parts of what would become Colorado. But the animals were only transient. Most of those records involved hunters harvesting, or just sighting a single bull moose. In…
In the July issue of The Connection, we shared that the Castle Pines City Council denied an appeal from McDonald’s regarding a restaurant to be built on the southwest corner of Castle Pines Parkway and Lagae Road. Ventana Capital, the development company who owns the land, and its entity CP Commercial, has filed suit against…
Intended to help reduce the chances of a motorcycle rider being rear-ended by a vehicle, a new Colorado law went into effect on August 7, making lane filtering a legal maneuver until 2027. Lane filtering is the act of a rider of a two-wheeled motorcycle passing a vehicle in the same lane, most commonly…
In 2022, the Douglas County Homeless Initiative (DCHI) launched HEART, the Homeless Engagement, Assistance and Resource Team, along with the “Handouts Don’t Help” campaign. As of this summer’s measurement, the point-in-time count (PIT) of the unhoused in Douglas County is zero. HEART is a partnership with the County, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and local…
In August, Denver International Airport (DEN) replaced the old parking ticket machines with “Flash machines.” The new parking ticket kiosks will offer a more technologically-advanced system that will create a more efficient process for all customer parking areas: the east and west lots and garage parking. Some of the benefits include: The Flash machines will…
We received a lovely card from one of our readers that we would like to share: Dear Friends, “Thank you” for producing such a top – quality product! You always include something for all ages & all interests! You provide exposure for local businesses – both big and small, stories that reflect on our past…
Business partners Kim Trumbull and Harmony Jolly are bringing their style to Castle Pines. In August, they opened their second Origins Salon, which offers an array of beauty services for men and women, at the Village Shops. They opened the first Origins Salon in downtown Castle Rock in 2018. Kim and Harmony have each…
Everyone likes a little good news, and we have plenty to share. Follow The Castle Pines Connection on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for your daily dose of positivity and all things Castle Pines. Our social media pages are buzzing with exclusive giveaways featuring exciting prizes and fun contests. You will also get the 411 on…
To commemorate the BMW Championship PGA TOUR golf tournament, SimplyEuro Castle Pines hosted a “car meet” on August 3. More than 150 attendees (many driving their luxury vehicles) gathered at the auto repair facility on Village Square Drive to celebrate their combined passions for golf and cars. One of the event activities was the “sink…
Last month, we shared with readers the disappointing news that the company that printed our newspaper closed its doors and that we were in search of a new printer. We are happy to report that we have signed a contract with Adams Publishing Group, and this September issue is the first paper they have printed…
It is never too late to discover a new passion. Geri Durbin learned that firsthand 30 years ago when she picked up a new sport that she continues to play today. Geri was raised in east Denver and was a competitive gymnast at George Washington High School and in college. After graduation, Geri coached gymnastics…
As of May, The Bundt Shoppe has new owners. Jake and Savannah Whitehead bought the franchise for all three locations in the area: Castle Pines, Highlands Ranch and Greenwood Village. Jake and Savannah tasted their first bundts when they moved to The Village at Castle Pines in 2021. “I absolutely loved the cake,” Jake said.…
Who says a Buff and a Ram cannot live happily ever after? The Walters are proof the two can thrive together and love all things Colorado. Lauren Walter and her husband Rory moved to The Canyons neighborhood in September 2023. They have settled in nicely and enjoy their views of Pikes Peak. While Lauren is…
In November 2022, then 15-year-old Cale Williams was featured in The Castle Pines Connection as a sophomore at Rock Canyon High School who had come through cancer, thanks to God, his doctors and all of those around him. He was quick to say it was his faith and his community that helped him push through…
Caden Broghammer is not the typical 14-year-old athlete. A freshman at Rock Canyon High School, Caden is a golfer, a year-around swimmer and a mountain biker. On his swim team, ROCK Swim Team, he has achieved state rankings. “I made it to state in the short and long courses,” said Caden. He recently joined the…
This Pet Pedigree brought to you by Lone Tree Veterinary Medical Center Alexis may be a tiny tan Chihuahua, but she sure looks mighty with her link chain leash. Though her chain looks as though it could pull the heaviest of trucks, it is a costume chain that weighs nothing more than her walking leash.…
Almost everyone planning a trip, or looking for an extra source of income, has heard of Airbnb or Vrbo, the popular websites that allow people to rent out rooms in their homes, or entire houses as alternatives to hotels. But have they heard of Turo? Turo is a national car rental service that…
The arts are about to take full bloom in Castle Rock thanks to the Tri Arts Project (TAP). Initially established in 2022 as Rock the Arts, TAP used 2023 to forge a full-fledged effort to grow the nonprofit through volunteers and funds. TAP fosters a love of the arts by bringing people together who are…
The Douglas County Wildcat Lore pioneering stories would be incomplete without addressing the forerunners: Native Americans. In fact, using historian Larry Schlupp’s words, they were indeed our “first immigrants.” As early as 1500, the Southern Utes found the Douglas County plains and foothills most hospitable, well before any other groups. Tribal history claims Utes were…
Jewish Family Service (JFS), a nonprofit organization located in Denver, recently launched an adaptive cycling program in Douglas County for the intellectual and developmental disabilities community (IDD). An adaptive bike is one that has been modified to help an individual with a physical barrier that could relate to mobility, balance, stability or not understanding when…
With the colorful falling leaves and cooler evenings, autumn is a beautiful time of year to enjoy outdoor fall festivals with family and friends. Whether you delight in live music, a maze and scavenger hunt, the fine arts or pumpkin picking, there is something for everyone. Here are some nearby festivals to enjoy: Castle…
The first Oktoberfest, in October 1810, was a five-day celebration of the Bavarian crown prince’s marriage. In subsequent years, the festival grew and became an annual event. The starting dates were moved into September, because the longer days and warmer weather allowed festival guests to stay out later. And now, it is time again for…
The Village Castle Pines Garden Club has had a busy social calendar this summer. In addition to their gardening days, attending Central City Opera, a charity drive, and welcoming new members, the Garden Club held Wine in the Garden parties in June and August. These are casual garden parties hosted by members in their backyards.…
A good book series is binge-worthy. The same is true for our favorite television shows. This month’s book recommendations combine the two formats and highlight book series set on the small screen. Binge the book then binge the show for a perfect relaxing weekend. The Temperance Brennan series by Kathy Reichs has 23 primary works…
Man’s best friend not only makes for a great companion, but also provides nonjudgmental support and can help individuals with mental and physical health. Dog and animal therapy has been proven to reduce anxiety, create a sense of security and help with pain relief in humans. Inspired by The Connection’s article earlier this year, “The…
Photos courtesy of Jimmy Dozer Photography View a slideshow of all the downloadable photos plus many more here: https://photos.castlepinesconnection.com/slideshow/2024/vino/index.html.
Fall is in the air. This means lots of things – shorter days, cooler temperatures, sweaters. For most people, it also means logging hours cheering for a favorite football team. It always feels like a bit of a shameful confession to let people in on the secret that I don’t watch sports very often. When…
This crossword brought to you by Allstate Insurance – Tammy Lopez (720) 733-1331 Across 1. Colorado Springs Thunderbirds 5. Sis’s sib 8. Casablanca cafe 13. Just ok 14. Attired 15. Dark 16. Arab ruler 17. Nevada city 18. In a cunning way (less common spelling) 19. To throw out a window 22. Marries 23.…
Double trouble or double double? While some of us may have no idea what these basketball terms are, Nolan Kliewer and Macoy “Mac” Terry are two boys well versed in all things basketball. From pre-k to varsity, they have stayed teammates, and are heading to South Dakota School of Mines & Technology this fall to…
The brain is the control center of the body as it keeps the heart beating, lungs breathing and allows us to move, think and feel. When busy and pulled in many directions, we could all use a little brain boost. Eating the following foods can help keep the brain in peak working condition, according to…
Americans spend an average of four hours and 37 minutes every day staring at their phone screen. A 2024 survey revealed that 40% are trying to cut down on screen time, according to the Health Data platform Harmony Healthcare IT. Fifty-two percent of respondents to Harmony’s survey think they are too dependent on their phones.…
Tennis is a true passion in The Village at Castle Pines, and when a team makes it to districts, it is cause for celebration. “Go, Village People!” shared captain Michael Shorts with his tennis team. In July, the Village at Castle Pines Men’s 55 & Over, 7.0 doubles tennis team closed out the season with…
The Castle Pines Athletics NFL flag football program wrapped up its summer season on the turf of Elk Ridge Park. Coach Ryan Shannon set a record in league history: all three of his own kids were each on one of the winning Super Bowl teams. “I have really enjoyed coaching my kids’ teams and getting…
On August 7, Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) opened its doors to a new school year as well as a new principal, Dr. Robert Thelen. Robert has 17 years of experience – in special education, as a general education teacher (elementary and secondary grades), as a literacy instructional coach, as an assistant principal, and as a…
Dear Mrs. A, With all of the back-to-school frenzy, it feels like folks have forgotten about the school zones. Could you issue a gentle reminder of the importance of slowing down? – Concerned in Castle Pines Dear Reader, You are so right, and it deserves special mention. First and foremost is child safety. Children are…
Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) School’s before and after program is thriving and this summer was no exception. The Before and After School Enrichment (BASE) program hosted 45-60 kids each day, running from late May to early August. Students arrived as early as 7:00 a.m. and stayed as late as 5:30 p.m. The calendar was full…
There is a new addition to the front hall at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE). The school was gifted a taxidermy bison (its mascot) that greets students, staff and guests as they approach the main office. The bison’s journey to BRE was a little circuitous, but it arrived before the first day of school. The large…