Read the stories from the latest issue:
October is a month filled with fun and sometimes spooky fall activities. Here are a few ideas: Hop on a train ride The Leadville Colorado and Southern Railroad have special fall rides where there are enjoyable views of the Arkansas River Valley and yellowing aspen trees. The Georgetown Loop Railroad’s Pumpkin Fest train is a…
Pomeranian Prussians from Burow, Johann and wife Minnie (Glauss) Heuer arrived in the U.S. as immigrants in 1872. Iowa farmland looked good, so the Heuers claimed it, and they farmed it for several decades. Charles Hier (the Americanized spelling of Heuer) was their second son, born four years later. Growing up, young Hier’s lungs…
Everyone has a story: the person in line at the grocery store, the person driving in the next lane, the person in the crosswalk, friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. The list goes on. It’s easy to think that what one sees on the outside is reflective of what’s going on in the inside of a…
The world is divided into two categories: those who flock to horror films and those who shun the genre. In the former category, screaming in theaters, gripping hands in terror and spilling popcorn at the jump scares is a thrill. For the latter group, peaceful sleeps and dreams and not being scared of the dark…
Many Caribbean islands are little more than water sports or beachcomber destinations. Jamaica is pleasantly different. The birthplace of reggae, her charms extend well beyond her saltwater shores and adventure opportunities. Now that her bauxite mines are mostly shuttered, vacationers are the new mother lode, drawing 4.3 million tourists per year. When we visited,…
Sky View Farm is more than a barn, it is a family. While Sky View Farm is an equestrian center, the Farm is also a place for alternative learning and therapy for kids and the community. Owner and manager Wendy Ingraham and her family opened up the Farm over the weekend to welcome visitors for…
There is a saying, “Being a good neighbor is an art which makes life richer.” Several neighbors recently gathered to do some yard work for a couple going through a rough patch. For more than two hours, these good Samaritans in The Retreat neighborhood in the City of Castle Pines weeded the yard, raked the…
On August 22, Rise Up Malawi (RUM) held its first golf tournament to raise funds for the nonprofit’s goal: to build living quarters for guests in the African country of Malawi. Held at The Ridge at Castle Pines golf course, there were 22 sponsors, 88 golfers and almost $40,000 was raised. “We were fundraising to…
In her capacity as a legal representative for the U.S. Olympic Games and Pan American Games, Sara Pflipsen has traveled the world to Rio de Janeiro and PyeongChang among other Olympic game destinations. Since graduating from the University of Colorado Law School in 2013, Pflipsen has spent her career providing onsite legal support and…
Prea is a happy and very loved domestic short-haired cat. Cheryl and Rick Mautz, along with other family members, grew up with cats and thought their granddaughters Estiana (12) and Ciella (7) would also enjoy the feline experience. A 3-month-old, ultra-soft and purring kitten instantly attracted the girls to the black and white domestic short-hair…
Some foods are inextricably linked with certain times of the year. I can’t eat a slice of fresh tomato without being transported to summer – even if I’m eating said tomato during a snowstorm. Asparagus is always the first vegetable I eat after a long winter of ho-hum produce, so in my mind it’s a…
On September 16, The Castle Rock Collective celebrated its one-year anniversary with a celebration open to the community. Located at 207 Perry Street in downtown Castle Rock, The Collective is a partnership between Wellspring Community and World Orphans – two organizations whose missions are centered around empowerment. This unique marketplace is transforming lives both locally…
Turning 40 inspired Jamie Klusacek to re-evaluate her life, her mission and her legacy. A wife, mother of four daughters and leadership pastor at Thrive Church, Klusacek felt a call to write a book every year in her 40s. Today, she is 42 with two books published. “I had this desire that popped into my…
Fall has arrived, and it is that time of year when you can change your current Medicare plan and coverage. Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) begins October 15 and runs through December 7. During this annual occurrence, Medicare beneficiaries are able to join a new Medicare Advantage Plan (MAP) or stand-alone prescription drug plan, called…
Pumpkins are making a seasonal appearance this month, decorating many front porches. Pumpkins are among the earliest domesticated plants on earth. Archeologists excavating a tomb in central Mexico unearthed pumpkin seeds that date back 9,000 years. Symbolizing fall, harvest and holidays, pumpkins also make appearances as spooky jack-o’-lanterns when carved for Halloween. There’s more…
Sixty years of marriage is a testament to commitment, perseverance and love. On September 8, 1962, Ellen and Al Dugan married in Wilmette, Illinois, Ellen’s hometown. The couple remained in Illinois until a job opportunity for Al moved the family to Colorado in 1980. The Dugan’s four children attended Littleton High School. In 1985,…
October is a great month to get to know garlic, sometimes referred to as the stinking rose. Related to onion, leeks and chives, garlic has many health benefits and can be enjoyed in endless ways. Though widely used as an herb or spice, garlic is, botanically, a vegetable. Before garlic was used in the kitchen,…
The Douglas County School District invites all high schoolers to attend Youth Congress, an event that brings adults and students together to discuss issues that affect today’s teens. This year’s topics include mental health, youth criminal justice, pressure to succeed, school safety, dogs in schools, youth voice, finances and trade school. The event is…
Douglas County School District’s Board of Education (BOE) unanimously authorized a mill levy override (MLO) for the upcoming November ballet. The BOE is asking for a $60 million MLO and a $450 million bond. The impact on homeowners is estimated to be $1 per week for every $100,000 in assessed home value, or about…
Keystone, Colorado is more than a mountain town that caters to winter snow skiers and summer hikers. The outdoorsy destination offers inquiring minds a unique opportunity to gain experience and learn within its picturesque backdrop. During a three-day retreat to Keystone Science School, DCS Montessori (DCSM) middle school students played active roles as scientists, conducting…
For most, there is always that one teacher. That friend, coach or leader that is unforgettable: that mentor who not only touched lives but changed trajectories in such incredible ways. For many Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) students, that influencer is not someone on TikTok or Instagram, but someone waving a baton who refers…
Community gathering spot serves up a taste of home Serving up memories, brightening the day, and bringing folks together. By Chris Michlewicz Anyone who’s been to The Exchange Coffee + Conversation knows that it’s managed to capture and cultivate that home-away-from-home feeling. As the first official business to open on the east side of the…
National Night Out (NNO) was held August 3, and representatives from Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) met with neighbors at Elk Ridge Park in the City of Castle Pines. More than 50 kids attended and DCSO sent the HAZMAT team, patrol deputies, bike officers, the Specialized Operations Response Team, a horse and a K-9. Kirsty…
City leaders are in the final stages of reviewing applications for nearly 250 residences on the east side of I-25 and three proposals for new businesses west of the highway. An application was approved earlier this year for a new car wash just east of the newer 7-Eleven in the open space southeast of Castle…
The first pieces of an effort to bring cancer care to Castle Rock Adventist Hospital (CRAH) have been put into place. A beam-topping ceremony was held on August 4. The event kicked off an expansion of the Centura Health-owned hospital in the form of a four-story medical office building, where patients who have been diagnosed…
Dedication to the success of the Douglas County nonprofit community has united two community anchors with a common goal – to enhance quality of life for all Douglas County residents. Through a Memorandum of Understanding adopted at the County’s August 23 business meeting, Douglas County transferred administration of its Philip S. Miller Grant Program to…
Mark Adams plays double duty at Rock Canyon High School. To most, he is Deputy Adams, School Resource Officer (SRO) from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO). To the freshman football team, he’s also Coach Adams. Born and raised in Connecticut, Adams moved west to attend the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley after high…
Every parent knows a car seat is a “must have” for little ones, but why do safety experts say 46% of car seats are installed incorrectly? National Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week is September 14-22. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages…
Have you ever walked into your closet only to walk out empty handed? You are surrounded by clothes yet you cannot find one thing you want to wear? There’s a monthly clothing subscription option that’s making its way through the grapevine in Castle Pines that may be just the right fit for you. We heard…
Karen Leigh, Freelance Writer Karen Leigh is not new to Colorado, but recently moved to Castle Pines. If she looks familiar, it’s because she works evenings as the main anchor for CBS4. She is a graduate of Arkansas State University with a B.S. degree, and it was the job opportunity that brought her to Colorado…
The Spirit of a Family Man Josh Kimsey is a busy guy. President of Bubbles Liquor World in Castle Rock and involved in philanthropy and many activities, especially with his family, Kimsey said he has a lot on his plate but is glad his businesses are close by. A Denver native, Kimsey attended Cherry Creek…
Paul Dannels was quite simply a good man with a gentle spirit. For 34 years, he served as the district manager of The Village at Castle Pines Metropolitan District, earning admiration and appreciation throughout his career until his much-deserved retirement in 2015. One of Paul’s greatest gifts over the years was mentoring youth and young…
Last year, we featured Sedalia’s Dr. Minnie Love. She was a gifted, charitable woman and suffragette. But for some ill-advised pursuits in antisemitism, Love would have attained unadulterated fame. Her son, C. Waldo Love, noted another of her impolitic acts. She said of him that “[If he] didn’t have enough brains to get through school,…
The Castle Pines Connection partners quarterly with the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce and the City of Castle Pines to welcome new residents to the community. The most recent reception was held Thursday, August 18 at 5 p.m., on the terrace of Douglas County Libraries – Castle Pines. More than 50 attendees enjoyed complimentary appetizers,…
A recent edition of Travel and Leisure magazine touted St. John, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, as “one of the World’s Best.” There is good reason; it is beyond superlative. St. John is small with a laid-back vibe and an interesting history. With no airport, the only way to reach the island is by boat.…
Autumn…colorful foliage, pumpkin spice, crisp air, sweater weather, the first frost and Colorado blue sky. Take a whiff of the indescribable and calming scent of this spectacular season. Truly, many people’s favorite time of year, although not nearly long enough. Time to head out to encounter beauty and serenity while walking or hiking the numerous…
Dear Readers, Mrs. Abramovitz loves dogs, but we need to talk. Humans domesticated dogs to provide work and companionship; and the dogs need us, too. While the relationship is deeply symbiotic, it doesn’t mean we have to have our dogs with us everywhere we go, all the time. I can hear your purse barking. The…
After losing both of their faithful labs in 2020 and becoming empty nesters when both sons went to college, Valerie and Matt Gusdorf decided it was time to welcome a new companion to their home. Chaco, an 8-week-old, wiry-haired puppy joined the Gusdorfs in September 2021. Chaco is a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (WPG). Known for…
Growing up, I was not that kid who pretended to be a reporter or was glued to the news. I was more of a kid who climbed trees, had skinned knees and never wanted to come inside until the sun set. My father said I could wear anyone down with my questions. Wearing makeup for…
Alex Van Vechten grew up in Castle Pines, attended American Academy and graduated from Valor Christian High School in 2019. Smart, kind and thoughtful are just a few words to describe this incredible young woman. After high school, Alex headed to San Diego to attend Point Loma Nazarene University. This small private school sits atop…
After spending six years in the NFL as a kicker and several more covering football on TV and radio, David Treadwell now spends much of his time in Castle Pines. The former Denver Broncos and New York Giants placekicker moved from Lone Tree to Castle Pines in 2013, and these days he’s doing commercial real…
Like many others, it was the breathtaking views and abundance of wildlife that brought Dan Kelliher to Castle Pines. In 2019, about two years after moving here from a rural area outside of Kiowa, he and his wife, Kimberly, spotted a herd of elk and wanted to take a photo. But as Kelliher lined up…
September is here and the craziness of school, work, and extra curriculars is in full swing. If there is ever a time when I need a dietary power boost, September is the time. Every day seems to start a little earlier than I want, with not quite enough time to get everything done. After the…
I’ve spent most of my life living in the West, but it wasn’t until I moved to Colorado that I discovered green chile. Of course I had eaten green chiles, usually as part of a Mexican dish, but when I moved to Colorado and saw it featured on restaurant menus in nearly every local joint…
Hello to fall and cooler weather, beautiful changing of the leaves, football on the television and chili on the stove or in the slow cooker. Many states and aficionados enjoy bragging rights about the best chili in their regions. It’s amazing how many variations of chili recipes there are, including even the spelling of the…
In late July, Douglas County Community Foundation hosted a fundraiser at Cranelli’s Italian Restaurant in Lone Tree with three ways to contribute: Dine-in, take-out or purchase a gift card for use at a later time. Cranelli’s generously donated 20% of all proceeds between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. to DCCF. Including a wine pull, DCCF…
A marriage lasting 50 years is not that common, and it’s a milestone worth celebrating in a big way. There are many reasons why couples don’t make it to that half-century mark. One is that many couples are getting married later than they did in previous generations, sometimes not getting married until their late 20s…
Being on the run all day can make snacking and eating a challenge. Whether spending time in the car shuttling kids around, taking day trips or running from meeting to meeting, having some easy, ready-to-eat snacks can make a busy day better. Plan ahead and toss some of these healthy snacks in the car to…
The USA Track & Field Masters Outdoor Championship was held in Lexington, Kentucky in late July, and resident Alfredo Sanchez won big. He successfully defended his title of United States National Track and Field Champion in the 400 hurdles in the 50-54 age bracket. Running has been a consistent part of Sanchez’s life since high…
The 8th annual X Drive Classic golf tournament raised more than $48,500 to support young students and adults who are affected by Fragile X Syndrome, autism, and developmental delays. The sold-out tournament was held on July 25 at The Club at Pradera in Parker. Before teeing-off, more than 140 golfers, many from Castle Pines, lined…
The hills will soon be calling. Now is the time to secure passes to have quick and easy access to the mountains with hefty cost-savings. There are excellent free and low-cost programs for students so parents can get inspired to take the whole family on some great winter adventures. Here is the run-down for 2022-2023…
The Douglas County Fair Parade was July 30 and the teams from Raptors Athletics attended in full force. Athletes from the football, lacrosse, basketball and baseball club teams marched in their respective uniforms, and parents wore Raptors apparel or colors. A truck with the Raptors banner led the way and the marchers passed out Raptors…
Bob Johns has been playing ping pong as a hobby for many years. When he moved to Castle Rock in 2010, he read an article in The Castle Pines Connection about similar table tennis fanatics and immediately checked it out. “I called Joe Franklin, the group organizer,” recalled Johns. I went over there and met…
Kati Melton always knew she wanted to be a teacher. At a young age, she was blessed to have had many incredible mentors throughout her school years, especially her high school principal, Steve Ribbens, aka “Ribs.” He was a good listener and challenged Melton to be her best; he pushed her to pursue dreams she…
In 2019, 13-year-old Katie Dupper attended a summer camp called Young Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), a leadership program hosted by Rotary International (RI). Three years later, Dupper established herself as the proud president of Rock Canyon High School’s Interact Club, the Rotary branch at the high school level. “I learned about Interact Clubs when…
The DCSD Safety and Security Department’s mission is to protect the educational environment in Douglas County Schools. We operate under three major areas of service: student, staff and visitor protection, emergency preparedness and planning and physical plant protection. High schools and middle schools are staffed with Campus Security Specialists who work directly with the schools…
Avery Kuna was 13 years old when she launched her online sticker and T-shirt business. Inspired by singer and international sensation Harry Styles, who is touring America this year, her dad encouraged her to become an entrepreneur. “My dad and I were sitting in the car and he told me I should make Harry…
Kerri-Lynn Andrew started at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) in 2016 as a long-term kindergarten substitute. This year she moves into the main office and role of administrative dean. Andrew filled many roles at BRE during the intervening years. During the second semester of the 2016-2017 school year, Andrew was a half-day kindergarten teacher at Northridge…
Fits the bill for lovers of worldly cuisine By Chris Michlewicz A tradition born in kitchens thousands of miles away has made its way to the plates of a Castle Rock restaurant. Beau Thai II, an eatery on the northwest corner of Factory Shops Boulevard and New Beale Street near The Outlets at Castle Rock,…
In 2020, Tyson Shelley returned to Castle Pines after two decades away. Together with his wife and three daughters, he came back to the place he will always call home. It happened after a perfectly matched job opportunity in Denver came calling, and he was hired to lead multilingual content management on a global scale…
The City of Castle Pines is exploring a ballot initiative that would ask voters this fall whether they want to opt out of a state law that prohibits municipalities and counties from forming a partnership with internet broadband providers. If the City ends up approving the addition of an initiative to the November ballot and…
Exciting new events such as an opening night concert by country music’s Josh Turner, farm to table brunch, BBQ showdown and a vintage car show join traditional favorites like the PRCA Rodeo, 4-H exhibits, two full weekends of carnival fun and the parade in downtown Castle Rock at this year’s fair. Whether you never miss…
Unbuckled drivers be warned. Starting July 25, the Colorado Department of Transportation, along with the Colorado State Patrol and 44 local law enforcement agencies began the summer seat belt enforcement period. The Click It or Ticket campaign will run through August 5. A seat belt violation is a Class B traffic infraction and subject to…
The City of Castle Pines is again considering the creation of an urban renewal authority (URA) that would help property owners in the City’s main business district pay for improvements using a portion of new property tax revenue. Elected officials began discussing the possibility of an urban renewal district (URD) earlier this year and have…
The City of Castle Pines Planning Commission (PC) approved the first phase of a project that will replace the skate park at Coyote Ridge Park with new pickleball courts later this year. A new skate park is being considered for a later phase of development. PC members unanimously approved a “location and extent” application from…
There is no question Castle Pines is a beautiful place to live, and residents are committed to keeping it that way. On July 16, members of the community volunteered a few hours of their Saturday to pick up litter and pull weeds at neighborhood parks throughout the city. Tapadero resident Daniel Kelliher noticed while walking…
The Town of Castle Rock is proud to announce the opening of a new neighborhood park. Cobblestone Ranch Park, located at 8571 Castle Oaks Drive was officially opened on June 29 with a carnival-themed festival that included aerial performers, stilt walkers, snow cones, games, live music and a 5K run. The 12-acre park is the…