The Castle Pines Connection

Sky Ridge Medical Center will host the annual Kids Safety and Wellness Expo at The Lone Tree Recreation Center on Saturday, June 12, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This free event geared for children ages three to thirteen, and their parents, is a fun way to learn about being safe. Utilizing the newly completed…

June 11, 2010 Families, Employees and Community Members of the Douglas County School District, The Board of Education serves the students, parents and patrons of the District by setting the policies that guide public education in our community. One of the most critical responsibilities of the Board is regularly assessing the District’s needs, together with…

Newly-appointed Ward 1 representative, Tera Radloff, takes her oath of office. For the second time since November 2009, when residents in the City of Castle Pines North voted for elected officials to represent them, a vacant council seat has been filled by appointment of the existing city council. City council selected Tera Radloff to represent…

CPN Metro District Board Files Lawsuit Against City’s Urban Renewal Authority “Blight” Designations Raise Concern With unanimous support of its five-member publicly elected Board of Directors, Metro District President Steve Labossiere downplayed the lawsuit’s significance and expressed the Board’s willingness to work directly with the Mayor and City Council to resolve issues without litigation. Citing…

Information provided by Douglas County School District The Board of Education unanimously approved Dr. Elizabeth Celania-Fagen in April as the new Superintendent of the Douglas County School District. Celania-Fagen has broad experience in various educational roles. Beginning as a high school biology and chemistry teacher in Iowa, Celania-Fagen progressed into positions from associate principal and…

Jennifer Wayne’s fifth grade class composed and performed their own poetry pieces at Dazbog, the coffee house located at the corner of Lagae Road and Castle Pines Parkway. The poetry reading was the culmination of a poetry unit the class had been studying. Each student wrote a collection of poems and was able to choose…

Jason Ortman, O.D., a Castle Pines optometrist, has been elected to serve a two-year term on the Colorado Optometric Association Board of Trustees. Dr. Ortman graduated from The Ohio State University College of Optometry where he received the Corning Low Vision Award for excellence in low vision care and served as President of the Beta…

by Linda Nuzum Urban Renewal Triggers Controversy; Communication The Castle Pines North (CPN) City Council’s recent approval of an Urban Renewal Authority (URA) and Plan has triggered a number of responses, including a call for CPN citizens to vote on the URA Plan; three lawsuits; City negotiations with other local governments which could see their…

Information and statistics submitted by Doug Hutchins, Castle Pines Real Estate Specialist, Broker Associate – The Kentwood Company The performance of Castle Pines real estate in the first quarter of 2010 depended upon the price point of the home. Homes priced below $500,000 saw strong sales with prices holding steady or increasing slightly. Homes priced…

THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release June 30, 2010 DEATH OF SENATOR ROBERT C. BYRD, PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE OF THE SENATE – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION As a mark of respect for the memory and longstanding service…

Rock Canyon students turned out in force for the school’s annual prom in April. Following the dance, the school hosted its traditional after-prom party in the gym.

by Chris Bonham, Intern Writer with a teen’s perspective America has often been called the greatest nation on Earth. But what made our country what it is today? Many people would argue many things, but one commonly agreed upon source is the United States Constitution. Last month we explored the environment into which this document…

Speed Raceway’s clean, environmentally-friendly facility features energy-efficient lighting and is free from oils and fuels. By Patte Smith with photos provided by Speed Raceway Tom Cruise made his mark on the big screen in the movie “Top Gun” with his famous words, “I feel the need…the need for speed!” Well, now there is a fun…

Practicing different moves on the pole during a pole instruction class are (left to right) Tisa Meisel, June Uralli, Sally Wagner and Mile High Pole Club owner and instructor Dionne Sieretzki. Article and photo by Carin R. Kirkegaard A new business recently opened just to the east of the Castle Pines community in Parker. Mile…

DCS Montessori student Olivia W. has a great time dancing with teacher Glenn Albert at the school’s first sock hop. By Tracy Dudley In May, DCS Montessori hosted its first ever Sock Hop. All students in upper elementary grades 4, 5, and 6 were invited, and attendance was very high. In preparation for the event,…

Dr. Bryan J. Rudiak, D.C, owner of Canyon Ridge Chiropractic in Castle Pines North, is committed to providing his patients a drug-free, hands-on approach to health care that includes patient examination, diagnosis and treatment for life. By Patte Smith Local Castle Pines North (CPN) business owner and author Dr. Bryan Rudiak held a book signing…

Information from Leadership Douglas County website Strong community leaders make for a strong community. Area citizens seeking a hands-on community education and higher level of civic engagement are encouraged to consider applying to Leadership Douglas County (LDC), a program that offers an opportunity for those who want to become more knowledgeable about the community in…

By Tracy Dudley The new youth sports organization headquartered in Castle Pines North, Five Stones Sports, continues its dedication to helping in local communities. On July 31, the Five Stones baseball team will participate in Reece’s Round Up, which is a baseball game with the children from Tennyson Center in Denver that supports Reece Rubino…

Assistant Principal Russ Jenson and former Buffalo Ridge Safety Patrol member Valentino DiPasquale recognize 2009-2010 safety patrol members for their responsibility and hard work throughout the school year. by Carin R. Kirkegaard Members of the Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) Safety Patrol were recognized for their responsibility and hard work helping BRE students arrive and…

It was dog day in Washington Park! The Dumb Friends League hosted its 17th annual Furry Scurry, the largest dog walk in the nation, on May 1 and ended the day with a new record—raising more than $960,000 for homeless animals. The Dumb Friends League reached its $1 million goal by May 31. More than…

Information provided by South Metro Fire Rescue The 2164 Foundation will be holding a Dinner Auction July 12 at the Inverness Hotel in Englewood to raise money to help the families of fallen firefighters. The dinner will be after the Brian Kopp Memorial Golf Tournament which is already sold out! The buffet dinner will include…

Column by Anthonette Klinkerman Bill Cosby once said, “Fatherhood is pretending the gift you love best is Soap on a Rope.” To my poor dad’s credit, I think I may have actually given him that one Father’s Day. In reality, the favored gift must be the necktie, otherwise why would Baskin Robbins make an ice…

Eight-year-old Taylor explores the beauty of Colorado and her passion for horses atop Rosie. by Lisa Crockett with photo by Terri Wiebold The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) has teamed up with Bear Creek Stables to offer guided horseback rides along the Backcountry Wilderness area, which are available to both Highlands Ranch residents and non-residents…

Information provided by the Dumb Friends League Many may think that a cat cannot be trained, but felines prove that this belief is a myth through the Dumb Friends League Kitten Kindergarten class. During the three-week course, young cats become socialized and learn tricks that would impress any non-believer. “The goal of Kitten Kindergarten is…

Article by National American Miss with photo courtesy of Dawn Jacobsen Eleven year old Brooke Jacobsen, resident of Daniels Gate, has been chosen as a State Finalist in the National American Miss Colorado Pageant to be held on July 20 at the Marriott DTC. The National American Miss Pageants are held for girls ages 4-18,…

Castle Pines North is a small community with a bright future. We want to take a moment of your time simply to share a key part of our vision for the future of the community as it pertains to simplifying our governmental structures, minus political overtones, misinformation or mixed messages. Our plans are simple and…

Proposed signage changes at the Outlets in Castle Rock may dramatically change the view of the shopping complex from I-25. Pictured above are renderings of the existing signage as well as what the proposed LED signage may look like from vehicles traveling along I-25. by Elizabeth Wood West The Outlets at Castle Rock is considering…

The 2019 graduating fifth grade class at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School don their caps and pose for a final photo as a class before moving on to middle school. Article and photo by Carin R. Kirkegaard The fifth grade class at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) has completed their last gym class, written their last…

by Einar Jensen, Life Safety Educator South Metro Fire Rescue Authority Although not everyone does it, most adults are familiar with the suggestion to change the batteries in their smoke alarms at least once if not twice each year and to test the smoke alarms monthly. A Coloradan – Duane Pearsall – invented the residential…

Charlie, played by Jake Mullins, and Grandpa Joe, played by Ian Nouss, being airlifted from fizzy drinks. Article by Kathy Dunker with photos by Desi Lederman The American Academy (AA) gymnasium was transformed last month into a spectacular setting, a chocolate factory! The Willy Wonka Jr. play, directed by AA’s music teacher Mark Middlebrooks, was…

by Lisa Crockett The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce will host an Independence Day Celebration at Coyote Ridge Park on Friday, July 2 from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. The party will include some traditional features like a pie contest, games and barbeque concessions as well as some more unusual features – “The Top Hogs,”…

Fiske (pictured far right) shows astounded villagers the human anatomy model. Article by Kathy Dunker with photos courtesy of Patricia Fiske The idea began following a 2007 rotarian “group study exchange team” which involved five young professionals trading places between China and Colorado. The goal at the time was to bring the 9 News Health…

RCHS sophomore Jake Dysart wins the 800-meter race at the Continental League Championship and goes on to state finals with the Jaguars. by Elizabeth Wood West with photo by Todd Lytle Two members of the Rock Canyon High School track and field team won first place at the Continental League Championship, which was held on…

by Elizabeth Wood West It appears that not everyone in and around the Castle Pines Village and Sedalia area is bothered by train horn noise. A recent telephone survey, sponsored by Douglas County, indicates there is not enough local support for the creation of a public improvement district (PID) and an assessment to pay for…

by Heather Halpape Colorado Department of Transportation Colorado DUI Enforcement Ignites this Fourth of July Weekend Tougher penalties for repeat DUI offenders begin as 100 Days of Heat continues July 1, 2010 Denver – As Coloradans make plans for the Fourth of July weekend, more than 76 law enforcement agencies across the state are firing…

As of press time, the water was still at the HOA1 pool – just waiting for swimmers to jump in and start practicing their strokes and starts and turns. By Carin R. Kirkegaard The pools in the Castle Pines community opened with the Memorial Day weekend and will soon be churning with swimmers as the…

Article and photo by Kathy Dunker The American Academy Board of Directors (AABOD) recently confirmed the selection of Erin Kane as the new head of school. Kane has been serving as the Interim Chief Administrative Officer since last November. Board President, Chad King stated, “After a lengthy search process, the Board has concluded, based in…

This Douglas County Highway 85 Train Noise Study map covers the area of Castle Pines Village and Sedalia residents and businesses located one-half mile to two miles within the vicinity of the railroad tracks and crossings. by Elizabeth Wood West with graphic provided by Douglas County Engineering Douglas County is continuing to work on the…

More than 200 people gathered outside Castle Pines Community Church on May 16 for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the church’s new location. Mayor Jeffrey Huff and Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce representatives joined Senior Pastor Tom Curtright as he gave the invocation and cut the ribbon. After the ceremony, visitors and church members…

Information provided by Douglas County To help residents clear their properties of dead tree branches and shrubbery, a slash/mulch site will open from May 22 through September 25. The site will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is located at 1400 Caprice Drive in Castle Rock. Acceptable items are tree branches and…

Friday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, June 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Why: Helping Hands mission is to help those in need within our community with home improvement projects to better a family’s quality of life. Helping Hands supports the elderly, the young, the disabled, the economically challenged, and those…

Article and photo by Elizabeth Wood West Beginning late this summer, Centura Health, the faith-based, non-profit hospital and health care provider, will start construction on phase one of its 50-acre medical campus. The campus will be located on the northeast corner of Meadows Parkway and Prairie Hawk Drive, in The Meadows development in Castle Rock.…

by Lisa Crockett with photo by Carin R. Kirkegaard Budget cuts have affected students and teachers in the Douglas County School District (DCSD) in nearly every aspect of the school experience from decreased services, to larger class sizes, to increased fees for computers. A decision by the school board will now affect students getting to…

Information provided by American Academy American Academy (AA) is offering a new extracurricular activity that teaches real-life skills to teens to better prepare them for interacting with peers and adults. Led by AA parent Kara Good, the Leadership Program for Teens is a highly interactive three-week program developed for sixth through eighth grade students who…

by Elizabeth Wood West Rolling Thunder Comes to Castle Rock The national non-profit veterans’ motorcycle club Rolling Thunder will be hosting “Salute to America’s POWs” in honor of POWs from past and present wars. The event will be held on Saturday, May 15 at noon, at Festival Park (2nd Street between Wilcox and Perry) in…

By Elizabeth Wood West The Town of Castle Rock (Town) council members unanimously voted Refined Alternative 6 Castlegate Drive as the preferred alignment for the North Meadows Extension project at their April 8 special council meeting. The project is being planned to provide a second access between The Meadows development and U.S. Highway 85 and…

Information provided by Carin R. Kirkegaard and photo by Vivian Jenner Pictured above, Marielle Renehen competes in the breaststroke at USA Swimming Sectionals held in Federal Way, Washington located just outside of Seattle. Renehen competed along with anywhere from 70 to 130 swimmers in the 100 and 200 yard breaststroke and in the 100 and…

This information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North The City of Castle Pines North is on strong financial footing. The latest fiscal update includes: January and February revenues exceeded expenditures by more than 10% each month (more than $60,000 per month) As of February 28, 2010, the City was at a…

Information provided by Renee Palmer, Broker Associate Renee Palmer, Broker Associate with Your Castle Real Estate, has earned the prestigious Certified Distressed Property Expert® (CDPE) designation, having completed extensive training in foreclosure avoidance, with a particular emphasis on short sales. At a time when millions of homeowners are struggling with the possibility of foreclosure, the…

The Wildlife Experience is pleased to announce it will participate in the Blue Star Museums program providing free admission to active military and their families between Memorial Day and Labor Day of this year. The Blue Star Museums program was created by The National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families. Blue Star Families…

Photos by Angela Carlson The Robinson family pictured above waits for their dinner at Angie’s Restaurant during Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) night. Held in April, the McCaffrey family, owners of Angie’s Restaurant and residents of Castle Pines North, partnered with BRE to sponsor a fun family evening. The restaurant donated 10 percent of all proceeds…

Bidders consider items for auction at Timber Trail Elementary’s year-end fundraiser. The event, held at Cielo at Castle Pines, featured an online auction, a silent auction and a live auction, raising which raised $35,000 to offset budget cuts at the school next year. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett About 200 parents, teachers, administrators and…

By Elizabeth Wood West After three hours of presentations, questions, answers, rebuttals, and public testimony, Castle Pines North City Council members voted five to one to approve the city’s proposed urban renewal plan (URP). The council’s adoption of the URP is the final step in a process that began a few short months ago with…

Castle Pines North Ward 1 Council Member Jennifer Havercroft Information provided by City of Castle Pines North Castle Pines North Ward 1 Council Member Jennifer Havercroft has resigned her position effective April 14 due to a family move. Havercroft submitted a letter of resignation to the city council at its April 13 meeting. The council…

On May 17 at 7 p.m. the Rock Canyon Elementary Instrumental Music (RCEIM) program will perform the final concert of the 2009-2010 school year. The concert will be held at Rocky Heights Middle School. The young musicians will have the opportunity to perform alongside members from the Colorado Chamber Orchestra. RCEIM is a before and…

This information has been provided by Castle Pines North Metro District. On January 26, 2010, the City of Castle Pines North (CPN) filed a petition in District Court to dissolve the Castle Pines North Metro District. The Metro District exists primarily to deliver drinking water, wastewater and storm water services, and parks and open space…

Submitted by Dep. Robert Rotherham, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office will be stepping up their efforts to apprehend intoxicated and impaired drivers during the up-coming Memorial Day Holiday weekend which takes place the weekend of May 28th. Deputies will be providing extra enforcement from Friday, May 28 at 6:00 pm through…

by Lisa Crockett Coupons can be a great money saver, but a group of Castle Pines-area entrepreneurs know they can also be a real hassle to manage and they decided to do something about it. To help consumers better take advantage of available offers – and allow businesses to reach a more targeted audience –…

Wines of the Pines and the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce wish to say thank you for making the first charity event, The French Wine Tour, such a great success. It is a privilege to be able to support and promote such charities as the Women’s Crisis and Family Outreach Center, Douglas County Veteran’s Monument,…

This information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North City Council recently adopted a coyote management plan, providing guidelines for responses to conflicts with coyotes while maintaining public safety as its primary emphasis. The plan seeks to identify and achieve a balance between the importance of human safety and the native ecology…

Article and illustration submitted by Mark Shively, Douglas County Water Resource Authority As spring weather returns and summertime is just around the corner, it is time to start thinking about firing up the sprinkler system again. Turning on your system may reveal some things have changed since the last time you watered the lawn. That…

Brownie Troop 646 had a career try-it with Angie’s restaurant, located in Castle Rock. The girls had the opportunity to learn about being self-employed as well as how to juggle being a working mom from April McCaffrey, owner of Angie’s and resident of Castle Pines North. Mike McCaffrey showed the girls the kitchen and they…

Castle Pines Athletics is hosting a variety of fun summer camps again this summer in Castle Pines North (CPN.) Camp Castle Pines, for children ages 6 to 12, will feature a host of exciting activities. Castle Pines All Stars is back again this year for the little campers ages 4 to 7. And, girls ages…

Photo by Carin R. Kirkegaard Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) fifth graders sang, danced, hula hooped and balanced on balls all to entertain the BRE community. Two performances were held Thursday, April 15, one as an all-school assembly and another that evening for BRE families. The school’s specials teachers produced the show and art walk. The…

To assist its residents with the high cost of prescription drugs, Douglas County is participating in the free prescription drug discount card program sponsored through the National Association of Counties (NACo). This free prescription drug discount card helps to reduce the cost of prescriptions not covered by insurance and has resulted in $250 million in…