Read the stories from the latest issue:
Mona Egender (left) participated in the current season of The Amazing Race on CBS with her friend Beth Bandimere. They are pictured here, in beautiful Bora Bora, beginning their journey. “I was able to see parts of the world that I never would have seen. It was eye-opening and humbling. The world is such a…
Relax and enjoy a much-deserved break at the new Belly Up spa in Lone Tree. Article and photo by Liane Marette Davis While pregnant with her first child, Rhonda James envisioned a special place for women to go to find tranquility, balance and reconnect with themselves. Ten years and several children later, her vision has…
By Elizabeth Wood West; photo courtesy of Tim Schoenborn What happens to young boys that learn to love fly fishing at an early age? In the case of Jay Baichi, David Kemp, and Tim Schoenborn, they grow up to become fly fishing outfitters. The trio of fly fishermen, raised in three completely different fishing regions,…
The Castle Pines Connection is still in the process of becoming a paper of record for the community, and we are almost there. Anyone who has not yet mailed a voluntary subscription pledge to continue receiving the paper is encouraged to do so. It does not cost you anything. To request an insert, contact the…
By Lisa Crockett The Giving Tree: Douglas County United Against Hunger, is gearing up for its fifth annual food drive from March 2 to March 9 at the Castle Pines Library. Non-perishable food items will be collected during library business hours on those days and given to the Douglas County Task Force Food Bank. The…
Article and photos by Lisa Crockett The annual father-daughter dance at Timber Trail Elementary this year took guests over the rainbow and into Oz for a magical night of dancing, prizes and fun with a Wizard of Oz theme. The dance gave girls and their dads a chance to spend some time with each other,…
Congratulations to the following scholarship recipients: (Top row – left to right) Makayla McBride / Soccer / University of Northern Colorado; Morgan Storch / Soccer / Minnesota State, Mankato Josh Gardella / Golf / Masters College; Serina Owens / Soccer / Missouri Valley College, Marshall, MO Cameron Gill / Track / Western State College; Allison…
Paul Kelley of Academy Sports Turf on the field that he installed at Elk Ridge Park in Castle Pines. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Denise Kelley When Paul Kelley of Castle Pines and Mike Hartwell of Littleton were mowing lawns at sixteen years old, they couldn’t have imagined they would play a key role…
A group of investors is looking to partner with local officials and the federal government for a new roadway proposal that could connect the City of Castle Pines to the Town of Parker. By Elizabeth Wood West; map provided by Douglas County Discussions about a new eight-mile roadway extending due east from Castle Pines Parkway…
The cast and crew of Valor Visual Arts performance of “Footloose” like to cut loose on and off the stage. They all truly enjoy being part of a fun and very active production. Front to back, left to right: two ladies laying over the knees Virginia H and Elizabeth P. Second row, left to right:…
By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Shades of Blue Castle Pines Resident and pilot Willie Daniels visited Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) recently to encourage students to explore the field of aviation as well as pursue studies in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Daniels is a graduate from the Aviation program at Metro…
Members of the Castle Pines Rotary Club attend each meeting of the new Interact club at RHMS and lend their support to these outstanding students. The Interact club is open to students in sixth through eighth grade at RHMS. Rotary members Jeff Mantz, Gary Bartmann, and Lisa Bartmann, along with RHMS counselor Kate Egan are…
Pilates in the Pines is now offering new state-of-the art equipment. The new Power Plate equipment is used by NFL, NBA and MLB players throughout the country to help enhance overall athletic performance. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Pilates in the Pines Pilates in the Pines, located in The Village at Castle Pines, has…
Article and photo by Amy Shanahan Archery is a sport that has become more mainstream, thanks to its popularity at the Olympics and to the impact of “The Hunger Games” books and movie. Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) is proud to be the only school in Douglas County, and the only middle school in the…
Leading Edge Physical Therapy celebrated a patient appreciation & business expansion in early February. Owner Sharon Wheeler (third from left) and the staff were very pleased with the community’s participation and that the event was such a success.
Congratulations to the Regis Jesuit girls swim team on winning the 5A State Championship!
By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of RCHS Cheer & Kelly Happ The Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) varsity cheerleading squad finished fifth place in the country recently. The squad competed at the Universal Cheerleaders Association National High School Championships at the Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Rock Canyon Cheer placed ninth at the national…
Mike Howell, aka Denver DJ Daddy, provides mobile DJ services for a variety of special occasions and venues. By Elizabeth Wood West; photo courtesy of Mike Howell Few of us are able to pursue the things we enjoyed in our youth once we reach adulthood. Software salesman and Castle Pines resident Mike Howell is one…
The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce “Sparkling with Success” Annual Banquet was held at Sanctuary on Thursday, January 24. Pictured above (top row, left to right): Castle Pines Connection staff members celebrating “Godfather” style; Chamber staff members Carla Kenny and Sharon Kollmar; Award recipients Tim Gamble, Kyra Hahn, and Dr. Jason Ortman; (Bottom row, left…
By Lisa Crockett The Solheim Cup, a bi-annual golf tournament sponsored by the LPGA and the Ladies European Tour, between 12 players from the U.S. and 12 players from Europe, is seeking volunteers to help staff the event. The tournament will be held in August at the Colorado Golf Club in Parker. “We really rely…
The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce has volunteer opportunities relating to office support including, but not limited to, clerical duties, answering the phone, and greeting visitors. Whether you are a student intern, retired, inbetween jobs, or looking for a chance to meet new people, just a few hours of your time would be of great…
Information provided by Anthontte Klinkerman The girls met on a Sunday at HOA 1 to be reminded of internet safety, practicing courtesy with friends and adults, and the importance of writing thank you notes. Klinkerman also shared her children’s book titled “Battle of the Grandmas,” and was thrilled to receive a thank you box of…
Fifteen talented seniors from Regis Jesuit confirmed their commitment to play their respective sports at the college level. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan On Wednesday, February 6, fifteen senior boys from Regis Jesuit High School (RJ) signed letters of intent to play sports at the college level. Among this group of gifted athletes was…
Article contributed by IREA The board of Intermountain Rural Electric Association (IREA) voted to approve the retirement of $3.65 million worth of capital credit checks at its February board meeting on February 5. Board President Tim White said it was the sign of a financially healthy electric cooperative. “I can’t tell you the number of…
This historic landmark, easily visible from I-25 and surrounding communities, is maintained by the Keepers of the Rock. By Lynne Marsala Basche; photos courtesy of POST Partners When driving through Castle Rock, it is impossible to miss the town’s namesake jutting majestically into the sky. Whether you have gazed at the lighted star atop the…
Castle Pines Village resident Teresa Vidger is unassuming in person, but is highly successful in her professional life. Her passion for real estate and relocation services led her to create her own company, which has received national recognition. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Teresa Vidger Teresa Vidger is a wife, a wonderful mom to…
Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski For a limited time, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science (DMNS) has opened a temporary exhibit that has been thousands of years in the making. Mammoths and Mastodons is now open until May 27. Grab the family and plan a morning or afternoon at the museum. The museum’s…
Nancy Brown is the owner of Sparkles Bead Company in downtown Castle Rock. The shop hosts classes, birthday parties for kids, and girl’s night out. Article and photo by Elean Gersack Nancy Brown loves beads and she loves people. That much is clear. This past December, she opened Sparkles Bead Company (Sparkles) in downtown Castle…
Sixth grade REMS students about to leave for an adventure at Cameron Pass. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Rita Klement The Klement, Goodman, Lewis and Kadlacek families of Castle Pines all have children attending The Renaissance Expeditionary Learning and Outward Bound Magnet School (REMS) in Castle Rock. Rita Klement of BriarCliff has two children…
Article contributed by South Metro Fire Rescue Authority The South Metro Fire Rescue Authority is accepting applications for its citizen academy. The academy will run from April 10 through May 29 on Wednesday evenings from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The deadline to apply for this opportunity is March 4. This will be the fourth…
Castle Pines Community Church Meets at 7280 Lagae Road, Suite O (King Soopers Plaza); www.castlepineschurch.org Good Friday service: March 29 at 7 p.m. Easter Sunday services: March 31 at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.; children’s programming available for both services Cherry Hills Community Church Meets at 3900 Grace Boulevard, Highlands Ranch; www.chcc.org Holy Week communion…
Clark Wilhelm, an exemplary leader and educator. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Clark Wilhelm In today’s 21st –century learning environment, an outstanding educator is someone who is creative, empowering, collaborative, and a visionary. Clark Wilhelm, a counselor at Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) for seven years, has been recognized by his peers as an…
Castle Pines jewelry designer Tracy Graef at work in her home studio. Graef’s work is featured in Handmade Colorado at DIA through March 31. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Tracy Graef, a jewelry designer who works out of her Castle Pines home, is featured in Handmade Colorado, a special exhibit at Denver International Airport…
By Lisa Crockett Castle Pines Academy (CPA), a private preschool, kindergarten and childcare center in Castle Pines, started with just 15 students when it opened three years ago. Today, roughly ten times that number of children attend classes in nine classrooms and the school has earned a “Best of the Best Preschool” award in Douglas…
The Impact edVenture “Ski ‘n’ Serve” group pose with Elliot, who won everyones’ hearts with his spirit and courage. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of Impact edVentures Three Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) students – Joe Giampietro, Ethan Thompson, and Christian Herman – along with other students from Highlands Ranch, spent part of their holiday…
Left to Right: Landon Holderness, Tanner Hickman, Audrey Myers, Samuel Hilgendorf By Liz Jurkowski In honor of President’s Day this month, a few of our young residents were asked to choose who ranks best as our country’s top executive. With much insight, Audrey Myers said, “One thing Americans are so consumed by today is the…
Fifth grader Kylee Ingram puts the finishing touches on her portrait of Richard Nixon. Ingram’s work was part of Timber Trail’s “Wall of Presidents” exhibit, which combined art with historical research. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Abraham Lincoln was the tallest president. John F. Kennedy could read and comprehend 2,000 words per minute. Grover…
By Lisa Nicklanovich The Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) Annual Fashion Show will take place on February 10 at the DTC Marriot. The theme this year is “Rock the Runway” and celebrates the school’s 10-year anniversary. The show is the primary fundraiser for the RCHS after prom party on April 13, which ensures that students…
Article by Robin D., BRE Ridgeline Staff Reporter “Thank you, thank you, thank you! I’d like to thank…” is what our staff and students said here at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE). We have won the Colorado Department of Education’s John Irwin Award two years in a row. But it’s not like only one award is…
Vail celebrates its fiftieth season this year and has plenty of birthday surprises for visitors to its world-renowned slopes. But Vail offers more than skiing to visitors. Snowshoeing and other outdoor adventures, as well as great restaurants, and spa services round out the experience. By Lisa Crockett; photos by Lisa Crockett; Jack Affleck, Vail Resorts;…
Dr. Emily Hoard and Dr. Molly Miller with a couple of their favorite friends. Article and photo by Elean Gersack Animal Care Center of Castle Pines (ACCCP) has welcomed two new veterinarians to the practice, Dr. Molly Miller and Dr. Emily Hoard. They join a devoted and dedicated group of animal loving veterinarians and staff…
By Elean Gersack Denver Restaurant Week is upon us and is celebrating its ninth year. Make reservations now at your favorite restaurants or use the opportunity to try a new hot spot. More than 300 restaurants are already slated to participate this year with more signing up daily. The event will run from Saturday, February…
By Liz Jurkowski In some ways, the junior year of high school can be the most fun. The eleventh grader already knows the ins and outs of high school culture, has figured out how to manipulate the system a bit, and has the ability to pick and choose classes and electives he or she is…
Coming soon! After receiving more than 9,000 nominations for teachers and employees across the school district, finalists for the 2013 Apple Awards have been announced. Finalists and winners will be announced at the annual Apple Awards Celebration on February 23. The Apple Awards are sponsored by the Douglas County Educational Foundation. To read about nominees…
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) participants (left to right) Joe Clements, Jenny Fortenberry, and Al Dugan. OLLI offers learning opportunities without grading for seniors 50 and better. Special to The Connection; by Ellen Sloan Three Castle Pines residents – Jenny Fortenberry, Al Dugan, and Joe Clements – have found a rewarding second chance at classroom…
By Chris Bonham On February 14th, people all across the world will take part in Valentine’s Day, a day predicated on the celebration of romantic love. This holiday is celebrated in the Americas, Europe, and even some parts of eastern Asia. In the United States alone, it’s estimated that more than 200 million people exchange…
Carrie Rotherham is the interim principal for BRE for the remainder of the 2012-2013 school year. Article and photo by Elean Gersack Carrie Rotherham has joined Buffalo Ridge Elementary School as interim principal for the remainder of the 2012-2013 school year. After the departure of former principal Ally Berggren in December, the district named Rotherham…
Douglas County’s new commissioner, Roger Partridge, was sworn into office on January 8 by 18th Judicial District Judge Paul King at the Philip S. Miller Building in Castle Rock. Partridge will serve the citizens of District II during his four-year elected term. By Elizabeth Wood West; photo courtesy of Chris Vodnik for Douglas County
Girl Scout Troop 4486 helps to feed pets of needy and disabled people By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of Christy McDonald For more than 100 years, girl scouting has taught girls, in part, about making the world a better place. Under the guidance of co-leaders Brenda Ferguson and Trina Wegner, and assistant leader…
Regis Jesuit juniors Tim Shanahan, Jake Ciafone and Collin Stover spent two weeks working with abused and neglected children for their service project. Knowing what the kids have gone through and what they still face has definitely been the hardest part,” stated Ciafone. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan “Men and Women With and For…
Kindergarten registration for the 2013-2014 school year has begun. Eligible children must be five years of age by October 1, 2013. For registration, you will need to provide your child’s certificate of birth, immunization records, and your proof of residence (warranty deed, deed of trust, tax notice, lease agreement, assessor page, notarized letter from the…
A taste of…Chinook Tavern By Liane Marette Davis, photos by Manfred George From the garden level “tavern” feel of its original quaint Cherry Creek location, Chinook Tavern has moved up by moving south – to the Village Center Station by the Arapahoe Light Rail station in Greenwood Village. Owner Clemens Georg said he toyed with…
Philip and Camille Moore, owners of the new Papa Murphy’s Pizza in Castle Pines, celebrated their store’s official grand opening weekend with friends, Mayor Jeff Huff, Sheriff Dave Weaver, and members of the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce. Papa Murphy’s Pizza offers a wide variety of freshly-made take-and-bake pizza, salads, and take-and-bake chocolate chip cookie…
Nothing is better than candy By Rhett Jurkowski, age 9 Would you like some sweet candy for your Valentine? I know the perfect place to find some. Hammond’s Candy Factory is a place to find candy for everybody on your Valentine list. I went to Hammond’s Candy Factory with my family and went on a…
By Lynne Marsala Basche Local teens, do you want a fun, friendly, creative way to get involved in your neighborhood and earn school community service hours? If so, the Teen Library Council (TLC) is looking for volunteers like you! Created in 2008, the TLC encourages teens to get involved in their community through the…
The pastry case at The Cakery in downtown Castle Rock is close to home and full of wonderful, homemade donuts and other tasty treats thanks to owner Tiffany Johnson. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan If you are a fan of freshly-made donuts, you need to make a stop at The Cakery in downtown Castle…
iGrow’s solar panel converts the sun’s energy into negative ions that help plants absorb minerals from the soil more effectively. by Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of iGrow Gretta Hawkins of Castle Pines is carrying out a vision she and her late husband Victor had of bringing innovative, green technologies to revolutionize the home gardening market.…
The Town of Castle Rock is hosting an open house for the public to review the overpass design for The Meadows at U.S. Highway 85, as part of the Town’s North Meadows Extension roadway project. By Elizabeth Wood West; Vicinity Map provided by Town of Castle Rock The Town of Castle Rock (Town) will be…
The Pet Stuff Place owner Mike Froelich is pictured here with his knowledgeable staff, mother and daughter, Michele and Allana Kephart. Froelich’s dog “Bob” insisted on being a part of the picture as well. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan The Pet Stuff Place, located in The Village at Castle Pines, is much more than…
Contributed by the DC Rotary Youth Expo public relations committee Fun for the whole family and good information will be on tap for free at the Douglas County Rotary Youth Expo, February 23 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Douglas County Event Center in Castle Rock. The Expo’s goal is to connect families…
Amelia Salsbury has three full notebooks of original songs that she has been writing and performing since the age of seven. By Amy Shanahan, photo courtesy of Marian Salsbury Amelia Salsbury is an accomplished singer, songwriter, pianist, and guitar player, and she is only 13 years old. Salsbury, a resident of Castle Pines Village,…
School spirit is on display every Friday when the staff at RHMS wears their purple and black football jerseys. “Our students, our community, our staff, and the partnership all three of those groups create, make our learning environment a cut above the rest!” remarked Principal Mike Loitz. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan Rocky Heights…
Press release provided by Park Meadows Mall Park Meadows has partnered with the American Heart Association and Macy’s in the fight against heart disease with Go Red for Women and Girls Night Out on February 2, from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. During February, American Heart Month, the American Heart Association asks women in particular…
Information provided by the City of Castle Pines Castle Pines City Council is seeking to fill a vacancy in the city clerk position. The term of office will commence upon appointment by city council and will continue until November, 2013. Any registered elector of the city who is at least 18 years of age is…
By Elizabeth Wood West Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) recently launched a new program for students interested in pursuing college majors in general business, marketing, management, finance, economics, accounting, and real estate upon graduation. The RCHS School of Business is designed to introduce students to many areas within the world of business and provide hands-on…