The Connection

RHMS students sing Katy Perry’s “Hot N Cold.” Left to right: Haley S., Michelle D., Brooke J., McKinsey A., Kristina V., and Sydney D. Article and photos by Kathy Dunker Weekly middle school karaoke night started off with a bang on September 17 at Dazbog Coffee in Castle Pines North (CPN). Boys and girls alike…

By Lisa Crockett with photos and illustration courtesy of Real Colorado Real Colorado, a Douglas County non-profit that sponsors more than 450 youth and adult soccer teams, has made its first steps towards having its own playing facility. The organization has signed a contract to purchase 22 acres of land in Parker east of I-25.…

Jason, wife Deena, son and first year t-Baller Anthony, and daughter Grace. Article by Tracy Dudley with photo by Tim Gamble This past summer, former major league baseball player Jason Woodring decided to get back into the sport by coaching a Castle Pines Athletics kindergarten t-ball team in Castle Pines North (CPN). Though Jason has…

Article by Kathy Dunker with photo by Eric Carlson The Carlson family, 12-year residents of Forest Park in Castle Pines North, are beside themselves with excitement. Their two sons, Nathan (17) and Alex (12) each got a hole in one while golfing on September 7 and September 8 respectively. Nathan, a senior at Regis Jesuit…

Fifth and sixth grade ski incentive programs By Terri Wiebold with photo by Colorado Ski Country USA Colorado unquestionably has the landscape for some amazing outdoor sports, especially in the winter months. Colorado Ski Country USA offers fifth and sixth graders incentive to learn to ski or snowboard through free and reduced-rate programs each season.…

Elementary and middle school girls taken with the silicone craze. Trading, stacking, mixing and matching .. the possibilities are endless with these silicone bracelets and rings. Article and pictures by Kathy Dunker What comes in numerous colors and shapes and has quickly become the next overnight sensation for boys and girls of all ages? Call…

The Halvas family at the Highlands Ranch Out of the Darkness walk for suicide prevention and awareness. Article by Kathy Dunker with photos courtesy of Jenn Halvas Losing a loved one is devastating. Losing a loved one to suicide is all the more traumatic since the grief is often combined with feelings of guilt, anger,…

The 2010-2011 Ridgeline Staff: Front Row – Ashley, Logan, Cody, Bryce, Travis and Xander; Second Row – Patrick, Simon, Trent, Pacey, Molly, Caroline, Mara, Emily, Casidee and Darren; Third Row – Maddie, Ashley, Sophie and Katie; Back Row Standing – Shannon Herzog, Felicia Phelan, Jason, Isaac, Brie, Nicholas, Aubrey, Oliver, Thomas, Josh, Ava, Monica Harmon…

Article and photos by Tracy Dudley DCS Montessori students and other community members enjoy hands-on experience with a red-tailed boa constrictor. Canyon Critters, one of the many presenters at the Fall Festival, brought several reptiles for kids to interact with and learn about during the fun-filled afternoon outside the school. For the past six years,…

Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Network (ADMHN) will host its Sixth Annual “Raising Spirits Wine Tasting and Auction” on October 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Sanctuary Golf Course. Proceeds from the event provide critically needed mental health and substance abuse treatment to low-income, uninsured and underinsured individuals in Arapahoe and Douglas counties. A hallmark…

Article and photo by Kathy Dunker American Academy (AA) recently had three young trees planted in front of its cafeteria. The ornamental pear trees were donated by Alameda Wholesale, owned by AA parents Steve and Jackie Brown, and planted by AA parent John Gibson of Swingle Tree, Lawn and Landscape Care. The trees were in…

Students enjoy the new court and turf areas adjacent to the existing playground equipment at DCS Montessori Article and picture by Tracy Dudley After two years of planning, Castle Pines North’s expanding and flourishing DCS Montessori School has added more opportunity for fun to the school’s upper elementary playground. While the board of Directors had…

Information provided by the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce The success of the August $20 on the 20th promotion, sponsored by the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with The Castle Pines Connection, was just the beginning for boosting the economy in Castle Pines North (CPN). The goal of this program is to encourage…

Eagle scout candidate Kelby Gatrell and his dog Duke stand by his project for the Glendale Farm Open Space off-leash dog area. Article by Elizabeth Wood West with photo provided by the Gatrell family If you were to ask the average teenage boy how he spent his summer, you probably wouldn’t hear the words, “I…

BRE third grade teacher, Mrs. Brester squirts some students in retaliation for the dunking she just received. Article and photos by Carin R. Kirkegaard The Second Annual Buffalo Ridge Stampede proved to be another huge success for the local elementary school, raising more than $3,500 for the school’s parent-teacher organization, the Buffalo Ridge Education Alliance…

Submitted by Castle Pines Athletics Working to meet the needs of its growing children, Castle Pines Athletics is adding two new sports programs in 2011. Starting this spring, third and fourth graders can play competitive/developmental boys baseball and girls soccer in CPN. Registration for baseball for third and fourth grade boys will begin in January.…

Student count day is Friday, October 1. Final funding for schools is contingent upon actual student attendance. The attendance recorded that day will be used to reconcile per pupil funding compared to earlier enrollment projections. What does this mean for your student and your school? Students should make every effort to be at school on…

Magestic Mushroom Rock on the southern cliffs of Spruce Mountain, just east of Windy Point. Article and photos by Joe Gschwendtner Douglas County ranks among the nation’s top 10 counties for income and growth. We know why we are here; it’s a quality of life thing. Since 1995, our county has acquired or protected $161…

Pictured above are ladies from the September gathering of Womenade of Castle Rock held at Castle Pines North resident, Mary Williams home. To date, the gathering has raised $1060. The quarter’s recipient is a family of four with two children ages five and nine. Both parents are unemployed and the father is legally blind. By…

Local sculptor Rhonda Vickers stands by her bronze of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Byron White, commissioned by the University of Colorado. Article and photos by Elizabeth Wood West “I believe you are born with it, but you have to learn and work at it,” said sculptor and Castle Pines Village resident Rhonda Vickers with a…

The Douglas County Educational Foundation (DCEF) is excited to announce the 3rd Annual Douglas County School District Colorado Rapids Community Night. The DCEF will once again be sponsoring an event for DCSD to enjoy a family night at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park on Saturday, September 18 at 7 p.m.. The Rapids will play the New…

Storm swimmers during an opening flag ceremony. Article by Kathy Dunker with photos courtesy of Lisa Kochevar The Castle Pines North (CPN) Storm Swim Team just finished up its second season as part of the Mountain High Swim League D Division. A young team with only a handful of teenagers, the kids performed well with…

Contributed by Patte Smith On Saturday, August 14, Boy Scout Troop 637, along with parents and Surrey Ridge resident volunteers, rebuilt the Surrey Ridge Estates horse riding arena. The Surrey Ridge HOA graciously provided lunch. A huge thank you goes to Troup 637, the volunteers for their time and talents, and everyone who donated funds…

By Elizabeth Wood West Before the end of the year, Happy Canyon Road will have two new fully-landscaped roundabouts constructed at Gates 1 and 2 in the Castle Pines Village community. Douglas County Commissioners gave their approval to Castle Pines Metro District (CPMD) for the construction of the roundabouts at the July 27 business meeting.…

Amy Shanahan, volunteer coordinator Article by Amy Shanahan with photo by Kathy Dunker The administration at Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) is excited to launch a new program called CommUNITY. Since its inception, RHMS has had a vested interest in engaging the community, and as a result, has a wonderful partnership with parents who are…

by Lisa Crockett The Constitution plays an important role in the life of every American. In recognition of that importance, Congress passed a joint resolution declaring that September 17 to the 23 would be observed as “Constitution Week.” A local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will host a week-long event in…

Pictured above is the outlet tower which releases water from the reservoir through one of four gates. by Terri Wiebold with photos by Jeremy Gamble Castle Pines neighbors joined the more than 10,000 other Douglas County residents who participated in Parker Water and Sanitation District’s (PWSD) recent self-guided “Driving Tour” of Rueter-Hess Reservoir. Organizers of…

Submitted by Andy Lyon South Metro Fire Rescue Approximately 60 personnel from seven Douglas County fire agencies worked to contain a brush fire near Castle Rock this afternoon. The fire burned 13 acres of brush and some trees after it broke out around 12:36 this afternoon. No structures were damaged though two homes were evacuated…

Cindy (far left) with members of The Wellspring Wonders Choir. Article and photos by Patte Smith The sound of beautiful and upbeat music can be heard from Surrey Ridge resident Cindy Kessinger-Wenninger’s home at all times of the day. A local vocal coach and singer, Kessinger-Wenninger is an extremely talented and giving individual, who reaches…

RidgeGate development is offering a series of free guided nature hikes on the Willow Creek public trail, located on their property. by Elizabeth Wood West with photos provided by RidgeGate Beginning in August, the RidgeGate development just north of Castle Pines started offering free guided nature hikes on its undeveloped property. The moderate two-mile hikes…

Drs. Jeffry Rayl and Mary Burns by Lisa Crockett A full-service dental and orthodontic office is opening in early September in The Village at Castle Pines shopping center. Dentistry at Happy Canyon (which is adjacent to Jimmy’s Photography in the center) will provide patients with comprehensive dental care including exams, cleaning, x-rays and other general…

Article by Terri Wiebold with photos submitted by adoring pet owners all throughout the Castle Pines community The Castle Pines Connetion partnered with The Pet Stuff Place in Castle Pines Village and went in search of the “Cutest Pet in the Pines.” Thanks to all who shared photos of your furry friends…here are our top…

Article and photo by Lisa Crockett A new store in the Village at Castle Pines shopping center is now offering a variety of business-related services. Village Postal, adjacent to MiYo bakery and café, offers U.S. Postal services, Fedex (express and ground services), copying, faxing, packing services, gifts, cards and gift wrap. In addition, Village Postal…

photos by Jeremy Gamble A fun time was had by all who participated in the Castle Pines “A fun time was had by all who participated in the Castle Pines “Hot Rods in the Village” car show last month. Special thanks to the Village at Castle Pines merchants and to the Vintage Car Club of…

Dr. Jason Ortman Submitted by Castle Pines Eye Care Dr. Jason Ortman was named the Colorado Optometric Association’s “Young Optometrist of the Year” in July. This is an annual award given to a member who has been in optometric practice for ten years or fewer. The award selection is based upon public service, the visual…

This information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North. While there are several outlets that provide email alerts to CPN residents, be sure you are receiving the emails being sent from the City of Castle Pines North. The City informs residents of emergencies, events, meetings, issues, and City updates. To sign up…

This information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North. The Castle Pines North City Council in late August extended a moratorium on medical marijuana dispensaries within the city limits, with an expectation the matter will be put to CPN voters in the November general election. On July 13, Council unanimously approved the…

Hike with your hound and help homeless pets. Follow the trail of wet noses and wagging tails at the Dumb Friends League Wag ‘n Trail! The 1.6-mile hike, for people and their dogs, takes place Saturday, September 25, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Glendale Farm Open Space on the west side of Surrey…

Who knew!? The Castle Pines Connection “School Scoop” section has a dedicated area for all Castle Pines schools, including RCHS and RHMS. Send us your pictures and story ideas and you, too, could be featured in an upcoming issue!

“Planet 51” was a crowd pleaser for viewers young and old. by Elean Gersack with pictures by Phil Archer Photography The night was bright, the kids snuggled up in sleeping bags and Chuck – the movie’s lead character – found his way back home. Ahh … life is good. The 2010 Summer Movie in the…

by Carin R. Kirkegaard On October 2 the Rock Slide, a family-centered 5k run, will return to the streets of Castle Pines North and Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE). In 2004, the idea for the Rock Slide was planted in the community fun run, the Buffalo Stampede, and was held in conjunction with BRE and what…

Submitted by Taylor Goertz, Capital Improvements Manager Northbound I-25 Off-Ramp at Lincoln Avenue Night Closure Lone Tree, CO – Starting at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, September 15th continuing until 2 a.m. on Thursday, September 16th, weather permitting, the ramp from northbound I-25 to Lincoln Avenue will be completely closed as part of the ongoing construction…

Article by Kathy Dunker with photos courtesy of Julie Storick Castle Pines North resident Julie Storick was the proud winner of the needlepoint Best of Show award at this year’s Douglas County Fair in August. Since Storick began her hobby with classes in Sacramento and weekend stitching retreats to Napa Valley, it comes as no…

A talented family, the Meisners – Ryan (left), Nancy (center), and Allyson (right), hold their entries for the Front Range Art Exhibit. Article by Kathy Dunker with photo by Sue Botero Local artist and mother of two, Nancy Meisner, will share the artistic spotlight with her children this fall. Not one, but three members of…

Staff of the Castle Pines Library celebrate the branch’s first year anniversary. Pictured left to right – Joanne Fields-Daley, Jill Swanstrom, Amy Long and Deidre VanRy. article and photo by Lisa Crockett The Castle Pines Library is small – just 2,300 square feet – but the space located in the Village Square Shopping Center on…

By Elizabeth Wood West Within the walls of South Metro Fire Rescue Authority’s (SMFR) headquarters, board members and staff are continuing to examine the long-term impacts the City of Castle Pines North’s Urban Renewal Authority will have on its ability to provide emergency services in the future. The city published a press release June 8…

Ready for take off… well, not just yet. Quam expects his plane to be completed in the summer of 2012. Article and photos by Kathy Dunker A lot of men have hobbies whether it is golf, wood working, or collections. However, Winter Berry resident, Mike Quam, has taken his hobby to a whole new level.…

Students enjoy the sun while setting up the life-size Tic-Tac-Toe challenge featured at the DCS Montessori Fall Festival in 2009. Article and photo by Tracy Dudley On Saturday, September 18, the sixth annual Fall Festival at local DCS Montessori School is open to the entire community. This year, the Fall Festival features a rocket demonstration,…

Saturday, September 11, Noon until 7 p.m. Chili Cook-Off competition – 8 a.m. to Noon Chili and Chocolate Tasting & Barbecue – Noon – 4 p.m. Chocolate Baked Goods (and other treats) Chili Feed Dinner – 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Children’s Activities – noon – 3 p.m. (tickets available from church members or at…

Members of the Castle Pines North Metropolitan District (CPNMD) board of directors were on hand to greet the public at the recent Rueter-Hess Reservoir open house. The CPNMD joined the Rueter-Hess project in 2006, and in 2008 purchased 1,500 acre-feet of water storage rights in the reservoir.

Karen Thyfault, store manager of Green Earth Cleaners, was happy with the increased business on August 20th. Article and photos by Kathy Dunker On August 20th, the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce partnered with The Castle Pines Connection to organize the first of a series of economic incentives called $20 on the 20th. The goal…

Principal Rauh welcomes RCHS parents at Back to School Night. Article and photos by Kathy Dunker The Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) Back to School Night on August 24 was bustling with activity. Welcomed by principal, Kim Rauh, parents with schedules in hand, made their way through the building, meeting teachers, counselors and administrators. With…

This information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North. The City of Castle Pines North’s financial position remains strong through the first half of the year. The latest fiscal updates include:Actual Compared to Budget: The City is in a favorable position to budget both at the revenue and net funds level. Total…

Information provided by Doug Hutchins, Castle Pines real estate specialist, broker associate The Kentwood Company How’s the real estate market? The answer depends on the neighborhood and price point for the home. Generally, sales and prices for homes priced under $500,000 were supported in the first half of 2010 by the federal tax credit offered…

“Vote No” on Amendments 60 & 61 and Proposition 101 seems to be the resounding message from local community leaders. Many city officials, county representatives, law enforcement and public safety officers, libraries, schools, chambers of commerce, and businesses in Douglas County have all joined in opposition. By Lisa Crocket This fall, three initiatives are on…

This information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North. Members of the Castle Pines Economic Development Council and City Council recently formed the Castle Pines Community Partnership (CPCP), which brings together representatives from the governing and service entities of Castle Pines North. The intent of this group is to strengthen the lines…

Douglas County Sheriff Dave Weaver (left) is welcomed to the Castle Pines Chamber Board of Directors by Board Chairman Dan Cook (right). Article by Kathy Dunker with photo by Terri Wiebold Recently appointed to the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is Douglas County’s own sheriff, David Weaver. Weaver said, “I am excited…

by Kathy Dunker Twelve months ago, American Academy (AA) opened the doors of their new building in Castle Pines North (CPN). Having come from a strip mall of classrooms with an asphalt playground in the parking lot, AA has come into its own with a three-story, 83,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility – and yes, with…

Submitted by Nanci Marr, Community Relations Specialist Nominate your favorite librarian for a national I Love My Librarian Award Librarians touch the lives of the people they serve every day. But time is running out to nominate your librarian for the national Carnegie Corporation of New York/New York Times I Love My Librarian Award! The…

This information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North. The Castle Pines North City Council has had significant discussions about their citizen committee structure and its overall effectiveness. At a recent retreat, the City Council decided to restructure all of their committees in order to clarify their roles, make them more streamlined,…

by Carin R. Kirkegaard Mark the calendar and plan on attending the fifth annual Great American Jacket Exchange October 14 from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Oxford Hotel located at 1600 17th Street in Denver. This symbiotic event partners professionals from all over the Denver metropolitan area with Warren Village to help raise…

Dr. Elizabeth Celania-Fagen DCSD Superintendant Dear Douglas County School District Families: I want to welcome you to what I believe will be an excellent school year in the Douglas County School District. This is one of my favorite times of year – when our students and staff return and fill quiet buildings with energy and…

2009 Rock Canyon High School homecoming game with the seniors showing their solidarity during the coin toss. Information courtesy of the RCHS website with photos by Kevin Williams The Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) Jaguars will be participating in a new football conference for the 2010 season. The newly formed South Metro 4A Football Conference…

This information has been provided by the City of Castle Pines North. Implemented in early 2009, the group disbanded early this year throughout the process of the council revising their committee structure. The purpose of the Youth Advisory Council is to give teens in our community a voice on issues they are concerned about, and…

Taylor W. celebrated her ninth birthday with friends at Speed Raceway, located in Englewood just around the corner from American Furniture Warehouse. They say that girls just wanna have fun, and this group of eight and nine year old local residents will have to agree! Article and photos by Terri Wiebold Step aside Danika, a…

by Chris Bonham, Intern writer With so many students heading back to school, it’s important to realize and appreciate different forms of education. Most people are familiar with the obvious, more traditional types of schooling, such as public, private, and charter schools. However, there is another system that is often overlooked when talking about education:…

Xtreme Challenge founder Kyler Storm enjoys a joust demonstration during an adult teambuilding event. Article by Tracy Dudley with photos provided by Xtremee Challenge While a variety of sports organizations have come through the Sports Complex at Inverness during the last 12 months, the most recent addition is perhaps the most exciting yet says Castle…