The Castle Pines Connection

Information and photo submitted by Linda Clure Linda Clure is proud to announce that she is now a senior real estate specialist (SRES). There are only 15,000 realtors in the country who have been awarded this prestigious designation. The SRES designation focuses on serving real estate buyers and sellers who are aged fifty-five and older,…

Pictured from left to right: Joe Franklin, Don Hansen, Sr., Dave Brewer, Don Hansen, Jr. Article by Tracy Dudley and photo provided by Joe Franklin Castle Pines North has its own group of table tennis fanatics. The Castle Pines Table Tennis Club (CPTTL) is a group of local residents who have been gathering together regularly…

by Anthonette Klinkerman The majority of people diet after the New Year, but one Castle Pines North (CPN) resident got a jump on a healthier lifestyle before the holidays. Tim Gamble, who is also The Castle Pines Connection photographer and webmaster, joined “The Biggest Loser” competition hosted by Village Fitness. He came away 32 pounds…

Local businessman and Castle Pines North resident Dan Cook (pictured above with scissors) cuts the ribbon at his new office opening in Lone Tree. Cook Financial Associates was previously located off Happy Canyon Road in The Village at Castle Pines.

Left to right: Isaac, Brad and Mitchell, third graders from Mrs. Brester’s class, get ready to serve up hot cocoa and chocolate during the production of The Polar Express on December 15. Article and photo by Elean Gersack Ah… the magic. The Polar Express is for those who truly believe. This holiday season, third graders…

Submitted by Deputy 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 Super Bowl weekend which takes place the weekend of February 6th. Deputies will be providing extra enforcement from Saturday, February 6th at 6:00 pm through Monday,…

Mother-daughter team and friend wearing their wares. Left Brooke Jacobsen, middle Dawn Jacobsen, right Michelle Dunker Article and photo by Kathy Dunker A very fun and funky new mother-daughter boutique is opening out of Daniels Gate called the Royal Chic Boutique. Inspired by her ten year old daughter, Brooke’s, desire to open her own boutique,…

The Castle Cappellas, a volunteer ladies chorus is seeking Soprano I, II and Alto I, II voices. We have sung at a few political events, local churches, The Wildlife Experience Christmas Lights event and at the Denver Tea Party. We also sang at the city of Castle Pines July 4th celebration and the recent mayoral…

Information submitted by CPN resident/ former City Council mayor pro-tem and Valor High School lacrosse coach, David Neely The Valor Youth Lacrosse program grew out of the huge success that Valor Christian High School lacrosse experienced last year. It was the first varsity season and the team ended up 11- 4, in just the second…

by Lisa Crockett Generous Castle Pines-area donors and members of the Castle Pines business community wanted to make sure that veterans in the area felt honored for Veteran’s Day this past November. The Bundt Shoppe, a specialty cake bakery on Village Square Drive, sold special edition chocolate, chocolate-chip cakes for just $10 as part of…

Information provided by the City of Castle Pines North It is the City’s expectation that all public streets shall be plowed; however, crews will continue to plow these streets on a priority basis such that primary streets will be the highest priority, then residential streets. The City deploys three plow trucks all equipped with sanding…

Submitted by Celeste Siade VP of Forest Park HOA Once again, on the first Friday of December, Cindy Hamilton hosted her Annual Ladies Luncheon at her home in Forest Park. What started out six years ago as a social event- for friends to exchange unique gift ideas in order to help each other out with…

RHMS Robotics Club, team #2. Article by Kathy Dunker with photos courtesy of Amy Shanahan Robots are not just part of science fiction anymore. Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) offers a Robotics Club to its students for the third consecutive year. Under the leadership of seventh grade Social Studies teacher, Cameron Randolph, the club continues…

Oak Hills resident Roxy Fredrickson leads a drum circle of children of National Guard troops preparing for deployment. The circle teaches participants life concepts including respect, belonging and generosity. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Oak Hills resident Roxy Fredrickson (pictured above) is not a trained music teacher, psychologist or social worker, but she knows…

Article by Sally Uhrich and photo by Terri Wiebold It’s good news for pet owners. Dr. John Vickers of the Castle Pines Veterinary Clinic is offering a 10 percent discount on pet dental cleanings during the month of February. As pet owners, we should be aware that cats and smaller dogs are known to have…

The Rock Canyon Elementary Instrumental Music (RCEIM) program held a winter concert at Wildcat Elementary School. Band and orchestra members from Buffalo Ridge Elementary and Timber Trail Elementary performed a variety of musical numbers designed around a humorous skit as well as four other individual songs. Sage Kemp, Brad Zakrzewski, Kathryn Pietra, John Koerner, Connor…

by Lisa Crockett In December, the city council of Castle Pines North (CPN) approved Resolution 09-91, declaring the property known as Lagae South eligible for annexation into the city of Castle Pines North. Lagae South – currently in unincorporated Douglas County – is an area of approximately 354 acres, located west of Interstate 25, north…

by Carin R. Kirkegaard Pilates in the Pines relocated to the Village at Castle Pines, found just off Happy Canyon Road and Sante Fe (Highway 85), in January. With the move, the studio will keep the current class schedule and plans to add more classes. “This is an exciting occasion for the studio,” said Alana…

Information provided by Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Douglas County Sheriff David A. Weaver was pleased to hear that he was selected to serve on the Board of Directors for County Sheriffs of Colorado. Sheriff Weaver is one of five sheriffs who was elected as at-large board members to County Sheriffs of Colorado (CSOC) Board of…

The Timber Trail Education Association (TTEA) will be hosting a fundraising gala on Friday, April 9, 2010 at Cielo at Castle Pines. The committee planning the event, headed by TTEA member Kristen Narlinger, is currently accepting donations to be used at auction. Donation deadline is March 9, 2010. Also, sponsorship opportunities are available at all…

Information submitted by Lane Roberts, Castle Pines Athletics Castle Pines Athletics, a local recreational youth sports program, has announced dates for the 2010 spring and summer season. All practices and games are held at the three neighborhood parks located in the City of Castle Pines North (CPN.) Spring Soccer – The co-ed spring soccer program…

Information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North. As the newly-seated Castle Pines North City Council begins 2010, the City Council is continuing its efforts from the previous two years to integrate operations of the Castle Pines North Metro District (Metro District) and the City of Castle Pines North. The City Council’s…

2010 Budget Highlights The 2010 budget for the Castle Pines North Metropolitan District (CPNMD) was approved by the CPNMD Board at their December 7, 2009, meeting. Board President, Bill Santos, highlighted the primary goals for the coming year aimed at reducing Metro District expenses to continue pursuing renewable water solutions. Stabilize Costs One of the…

Municipal Judge Lewis Gresh congratulates Jeff Huff after taking the oath as the new mayor of the City of Castle Pines North. Information provided by the City of Castle Pines North, photos by Tim Gamble Municipal Judge Lewis Gresh officially swore in six new Castle Pines North (CPN) city officials in January at the Castle…

Douglas County Libraries has a new newsletter and blog just for parents! Geared for families with children from birth to 12 years of age, parents will find lots of fun ideas each month. Topics will include book and website recommendations and local places of interest. Keep an eye out for Healthy Snack recipes for kids…

Article by Sally Uhrich with photos by Jeremy Gamble “An Evening of Inspiration,” was the theme for the very first fundraising event for Wellspring Community, a nonprofit whose mission is to empower adults with special needs to live full and productive lives. More than 250 guests gathered at Cielo at Castle Pines, including Carole Murray,…

Judy Brand (center) Chairman of the Mt. Rosa Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, presents a Community Service Award to Castle Pines North residents Vicky and Frank Kellen. The Kellens were honored in January for their contributions in support of the Castle Pines Library. Courtesy of the DAR, Mount Rosa Chapter In January,…

The first Castle Pines Library Mother/Daughter Book Club met on Monday, January 11. Article by Elean Gersack and photo by Tim Gamble Get your library cards ready and check-out some great books. The Castle Pines Library is bustling with activities and touting longer hours to start off the New Year. Browse the shelves on Mondays…

by Lisa Crockett The Castle Pines North city council voted unanimously in December to renew public safety and animal control services with the Douglas County Board of County Commissioners through Dec. 31, 2010. “The city of Castle Pines North is very pleased to continue our strong partnership with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office,” said former…

Kim Hoffman (left) welcomes Shelley Hamilton-Bruer. Article and photo by Terri Wiebold After more than five years of dedicated volunteer service on the Parks Authority, city representative Kim Hoffman steps off the Board and welcomes newly-elected city council member Shelley Hamilton-Bruer to fill the city’s seat at the table. “I would like to express my…

Carol Langley-Finnegan Information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North. The City Safety Task Force (STF) would like to thank Carol Langley-Finnegan for serving as the chair of the STF. According to City Council, Langley-Finnegan has put in countless volunteer hours and her efforts have made Castle Pines North a stronger and…

by Anthonette Klinkerman Valentine’s Day is this month, in case you haven’t noticed. You didn’t make dinner reservations back in 2009? Or pick out heart-felt cards by the fourth day of January? Or order roses, select chocolates, or purchase a spa gift certificate for your sweetheart? Valentine’s Day has taken on tones of America’s favorite…

Troop leader Paige Taylor Co-leader Jen Meinert-Larson and Daisies sing “Make new friends” at the closing of the meeting. by Anthonette Klinkerman At Buffalo Ridge Elementary, every other Wednesday afternoon, thirty-five girls in blue vests and smocks perch on the art room stools, having a snack before instruction. These Kindergarten and First Grade girls are…

by Carin R. Kirkegaard The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) spring term begins March 29 and is currently enrolling life long learners in a variety of classes. Spring classes will run through May 20. (To learn more about OLLI South, visit www.universitycollege.du.edu/olli/. Spring 2010 Classes America and the New Global Economy The Birth of the…

Fifth grade Dream Team members and their leaders, Jennifer Jacoway (back left) and Jolie Pinke (back right) load up packages to deliver to kids at Children’s Hospital for the holidays. Article and photo by Elean Gersack The Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) Dream Team put their heads together and opened their hearts for sick kids at…

Article courtesy of Trish Cummings American Academy Charter School American Academy recently participated in a service program to help Colorado National Guard troops (Colorado Army National Guard’s 3rd Battalion, 157th Field Artillery) currently deployed to Iraq. After being contacted by a National Guard parent at the school in October, American Academy parent and teacher, Wendy…

Come join us! The Douglas County Garden Club meets the first Tuesday of each month from 1p.m. to 3 p.m. For meeting location and additional club information, call 303-727-0484 or go to www.douglascountygardenclub.org.

Information provided by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Even though Douglas County is a very mobile community, we do have a certain special population of citizens with disabilities and mobility problems. There are several programs and plans available to this special population that can help them prepare for an emergency or disaster. Special Needs Registry:…

Submitted by Deputy Cocha Heyden Public Information Officer Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff David A. Weaver would like to remind the community that the United States Census Bureau employees may be back in your neighborhood in the next few months working on the next phase of the 2010 Census. The Census data can be used…

By Chris Bonham, Intern Writer February. A simple mentioning of the month conjures up images of hearts, love, and having a great time with friends. We think of Valentine’s Day, and the joy and happiness that it brings. Okay, so maybe a few people won’t be feeling so romantic when this second month in the…

Information and photos submitted by Claudia Larson There are few resources for women and children who are experiencing poverty and homelessness. God’s Grace Community Church (GGCC) is pleased to partner with Denver’s only day shelter, The Gathering Place (TGP). GGCC hosts a monthly Bingo game to spend time with the women, offer a little fun…

Information submitted by Doug Hutchins, Castle Pines Real Estate Specialist Broker Associate – The Kentwood Company The most common question being asked about the local real estate market is whether or not home prices have stabilized in the Castle Pines community. It is easy to find predictions about the real estate market, but generally these…

Article by Lisa Crockett Photos courtesy of Castle Pines Community Church After many years of renting space at a local elementary school, Castle Pines Community Church (CPCC) is moving to a home of its own in the Shoppes at Castle Pines Shopping Center on Lagae Road (in the same shopping center as King Soopers.) While…

The Division of Wildlife is coming to Castle Pines North to discuss the recent reported coyote sightings, encounters and attacks in the Castle Pines area and how to handle these types of situations. Please plan to attend; there will be important information available. The meeting is scheduled for January 5th, 6pm, at the CPN Community…

Recent legislation enables the Douglas County Clerk and Recorder to conduct the Primary Election by mail ballot only. A public hearing is scheduled for January 28, 2010 to discuss how this might impact Douglas County voters and the County budget. For additional information call 303-660-7444 or go to www.douglas.co.us.

Article by Carin R. Kirkegaard, photos provided by Steve & Jody Robinson A group of families from Castle Pines North (CPN), two CPN Girl Scout troops, a CPN Brownie troop, as well as a group of families from Founders Village in Castle Rock formed “Operation Bright Star” to help gather food and create a Thanksgiving…

Eagle Scout Connor Smith stands in the gazebo he built at the Lowell Ranch in Castle Rock. by Elizabeth Wood West Connor Smith has been a Scout most of his life, having joined the Cub Scouts in first grade. A Rock Canyon High School senior and Oak Hills resident, Smith completed all Cub Scout rank…

Home builder Woody Howarth (left) stands with homeowners Jean and Nick Domico in their new, custom designed kitchen. By Scott Lasher There wasn’t a huge bus. There was no Ty Pennington. There was no trip to Disneyworld while they waited for their home to be rebuilt. Nonetheless, an extreme makeover of sorts took place in…

Article by Terri Wiebold and photo by Tim Gamble Court allows continued big game hunting in Castle Pines; imposes restrictions Nearly one year following the Castle Pines Homes Association, Inc.’s (CPHA) filing of a complaint for an injunctive relief to prohibit hunting with firearms on 88 acres of land nestled in the Castle Pines community,…

by Carin R. Kirkegaard The Douglas County School District (DCSD) family fun run and fund raiser for local schools in the Rock Canyon High School area was cancelled this year. The Rock Slide had originally been scheduled for November 14, but due to inclement weather the race was postponed until December 12. In an e-mail…

The Castle Pines Connection staff joins at Sienna at the Courtyard in Castle Rock to celebrate the holidays and also the one-year anniversary of its inception. Pictured above back row left to right: Elean Gersack (writer), Lisa Crockett (writer), Tracy Dudley (writer), John Kenny (proofreader), and Tom Ballantine (ad sales). Front row left to right:…

Mrs. Wedge’s second grade class with packages they purchased and wrapped to help an adopted family at Buffalo Ridge. Article and photos by Carin R. Kirkegaard During the holiday season, the spirit of giving burst from many classrooms at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE). “Buffalo Ridge has been adopting families for 10 years now during the…

Information provided by DCSD A community survey is currently underway and is open to the public – and TOMORROW is the last day to provide your input. This survey is intended to collect valuable community feedback that will be used by the Douglas County School Board of Education, the District Advisory Council, and the Douglas…

There may be a new pride of cougars in wildcat country if considerations to sell a portion of land in the Highlands Ranch “backcountry” wildnerness area come to fruition. Colorado Christian University has expressed interest in the property, located just west of Monarch Boulevard south of Rocky Heights Middle School, as well as exploring other…

by Kathy Dunker This year the Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) eighth grade classes worked on team service projects to help people in need both inside and outside of the Douglas County school community. Some 422 students participated in the “Penny Wars.” In this competition, pennies earned the classes positive points, while silver and paper…

Pastors Russ and Becky Stutzman being honored at a dessert reception at the Inverness Hotel in Englewood in October. By Scott Lasher Solid Life Christian Center appreciates its pastors Russ and Becky Stutzman honored in unique way In a church filled with an abundance of love and appreciation, something modeled by its pastors, how does…

Brownies Molly and Rachel get a hug from Valley House resident, Betsy, during Troop 881’s outreach visit. Article and photos by Elean Gersack On Monday, November 23, Buffalo Ridge Elementary School Brownie Troop 881 made a special visit to Valley House Elderly Assisted Living in Castle Rock. Two weeks prior, the third graders met with…

by Kathy Dunker The recent Master Association annual meeting included an interesting announcement from HOA1 Board member, Dick Lichtenheld. The Board of HOA1 would like to separate from the Castle Pines North Master Association. According to Lichtenheld, the withdrawal would result in an 18 percent reduction in HOA dues for the residents without any reduction…

Five Stone Sports founders Craig Lumsden (left) and Kent Lansville (right) are geared up to bring competitive and recreational sports programming to the community. Article and photo by Tracy Dudley Two Castle Pines North residents have been involved in numerous sports organizations through the years as youth and now as parents of young athletes. Craig…

Students warm up with a “G” Scale at orchestra practice at Timber Trail Elementary. Rock Canyon Elementary Instrumental Music program offers before and after music instruction in local schools Article and photos by Carin R. Kirkegaard Budding cellists, drummers, clarinetists, and horn players from Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) and Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) have been…

Submitted by Deputy Cocha Heyden Public Information Officer Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Douglas County residents can now take their neighborhood crime map with them wherever they go. The new iPhone application will provide citizens with local crime mapping and national sex offender data. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office already publishes their crime data on the…

A community knows how valuable volunteers are in day to day operations. Parents regularly flood schools to help out classroom teachers, and in libraries volunteers reshelf books or assist in reading programs. In Douglas County, high school students are required to have 20 community service hours in order to graduate. A Castle Pines North parent…

Submitted by Kristin Zagurski Town Council will be asked to decide Tuesday in which direction the North Meadows Extension project should proceed. The project would provide a second access between The Meadows and U.S. Highway 85 and Interstate 25, relieving congestion on Meadows Parkway and improving traffic flow on I-25. Three alternatives for the road…

Local disc jockey Dom Testa gives an inspirational presentation to American Academy students. by Kathy Dunker Excitement was in the air at American Academy for a December assembly led by local disc jockey, Dom Testa, from the Dom & Jane morning show on Mix 100 (FM100.3). Testa, an award winning writer for young adults, spoke…

If you’re looking for a great pet bakery fairly close in proximity to Castle Pines consider the For Paws Bakery and Pet Spa, located at 19565 E. Main Street in Parker. There is a vast array of treats, named after the owner’s pets such as Maggie’s gourmet cookies or Mia’s munchies. The canine confections use…

by Anthonette Klinkerman Here we are, ten years into the millennium. It doesn’t feel much different, really. Food is still in food-form, and no one is flying around Jetsons-style. And most likely, humanoids all over the planet are partaking in the traditional ritual of making New Year’s resolutions. Especially since food is not in pill…

Information provided by God’s Grace Community Church God’s Grace Community Church (GGCC) had the joy of once again helping to host the Annual Open Door Youth Gang Alternatives Christmas Party for inner city kids on December 19. More than 200 families from Five Points in Denver attended the event. Festivities included cookie and card decorating,…

Calling all book lovers, local business owners and those who simply love a lively discussion. The first meeting of the Castle Pines Business Book Club will be held at the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, January 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided for the first meeting. Not much of a…

Article by Anthonette Klinkerman and photo provided by Serena resident Tyson Jones Where the buffalo – no, make that elk – roam… If there is one thing Castle Pines North (CPN) does not have a shortage of, it is wildlife. From deer to red fox, wild birds, the occasional mountain lion and coyotes, CPN residents…