Read the stories from the latest issue:
Kim Gensler is an adventurous world traveler. After graduating from Colorado State University, she went to South Africa to guide safaris. She stayed 14 years before moving back to Colorado to embark on her new journey as a functional medicine certified health coach and national board-certified health and wellness coach. “The only reason we are…
Evelyn Razem is a teen who is all heart. A sophomore at Rock Canyon High School, she has a learner’s permit and a passion for giving back and helping others. Each week, she volunteers at her old stomping grounds, DCS Montessori School (DCSM), to teach youngsters how to crochet during the after-school specials program. She…
Maren Hendershot McCrary has soccer in her blood. Growing up in Colorado Springs, she routinely traveled to Denver to play with a more competitive club; then in college for Brigham Young University, and then professionally before retiring after an injury. But retirement did not mean McCrary stepped away from soccer. She stayed involved in…
There is a social media trend among adults. When celebrating a birthday, in lieu of gifts, some take an opportunity to raise money for something close to their hearts: a charity they love or a cause they want to lift up. But it is not every day when you hear of someone young, someone…
The Castle Pines Connection has teamed up with The Pet Stuff Place, Fetch! and Lone Tree Veterinary Medical Center to bring you the eleventh annual Cutest Pet in the Pines contest. We invite you to share your digitally-captured pet adventures with us. Send in your favorite recent photo by December 15 for a chance to…
Traditions give our life structure and meaning. They help keep families and cultures knit together in shared and expected experiences. They create space and behavioral guidelines for celebration, grieving and living. As we get into the thick of this holiday season, traditions can lift us or weigh heavily on our minds and hearts, but…
Bentley may be mini, but he celebrates big time. When his owners Jennifer and Jeff Edgell come home, they are greeted by a fur ball of enthusiasm and spunk, a trait common in miniature schnauzers. Once properly petted and loved, Bentley settles in with his people. Twelve-year-old Bentley is an AKC registered miniature schnauzer. …
Douglas County Community Foundation is seeking volunteers to help further its mission to responsibly manage philanthropic contributions, maintain agile funds for emergencies, inspire generosity and provide support to local nonprofits serving the needs within our community. Become part of the team that plans and executes fundraising events or help vet nonprofits and be a part…
Caption and photo by Hollen Wheeler
As 2023 comes to a close, we reflect on the strength and hope that is all around us. For the past seven years, our Angels Among Us segment has featured nonprofits and people who are using their voices and abilities to bring incredible impacts to the community and beyond. This year, we featured 12 stories. …
Deputy Brian McKnight from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) loves his job in law enforcement so much he is on round two. Originally hired by Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) in the late 1980s, McKnight served our neighboring communities for three decades before retiring. But he just could not stay away from community involvement…
In a world dominated by streaming platforms and on-demand content, cinephiles – people who are fond of motion pictures – are finding new and exciting ways to connect and share their passion for film. One such company that has gained significant traction in recent years is Letterboxd, a social media platform designed specifically for…
Homemade gifts take some time and care, which is why they are more special than something store-bought. Here are some ideas to spark creativity. Browse the internet for tutorials and recipes. Flavored salts, such as wild mushrooms, ancho chilies, garam masala Gourmet marshmallows Granola with tangy cranberries and apricots Mini cheesecakes Herbal tea with lemon…
Across 1. Wood cutters 5. Water balloon sound 10. Double-reed woodwind 14. Wyle of “ER” 15. Pageant prize 16. Scattered (like seeds) 17. Not built again 20. Jewel 21. Bird class 22. Indian flatbreads 23. Disinterested 25. ___ terrier 27. “______ Bells” 29. Shock 30. Rainbow ___ 31. With 29 down, a type of…
Dear Readers, It is gift giving and receiving time! And I have held a lifelong belief that there are only two words that should ever be spoken when receiving a gift, “Thank you!” Sometimes people give us a gift we do not want to receive, and we do not know quite what to do. It…
The biannual New Resident Welcome Reception event was held at the Marquis Castle Pines apartments this fall. Mayor Tracy Engerman welcomed 25 new residents to the neighborhood. The event is hosted by the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce, the City of Castle Pines and the Castle Pines Connection. Caption and photos by Hollen Wheeler
If you’ve lived in Douglas County more than a few years and haven’t been to Bud’s Bar in Sedalia, you ain’t nobody. Whoa! Let me be more sensitive. You’ve simply failed to seize a legendary opportunity: Bud’s world-renowned hamburgers, great folks, a colorful backstory and all the Wildcat Lore that flows within it. Sedalia…
Chabad Jewish Center of South Metro Denver 9950 Lone Tree Parkway, Lone Tree www.denverjewishcenter.com Canyons Community Church 4825 N. Crowfoot Valley Road, Castle Rock www.canyonscc.org Christmas Eve: Candlelight Service, December 24, 4 p.m. Castle Oaks Covenant Church 826 Park Street, Castle Rock www.castleoaks.org Christmas Eve: December 24, 2:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Cherry Hills Community Church…
Christmas makes everyone a kid, and what kid doesn’t like new toys? In my memory of childhood Christmas presents, one of my favorites was an Easy-Bake Oven. With just the power of a light bulb and a specially formulated mix, I could make a cake all by myself. I remember mixing the ingredients, popping…
Castle Pines is abuzz with excitement as we extend heartfelt congratulations to Jeanne Furr, a remarkable resident about to reach the incredible milestone of 100 years young! Furr’s journey is a captivating tale of resilience, love and a century’s worth of memories. Born…
UPDATE: An exclusive holiday ticket option for the 2024 BMW Championship is available now for Castle Pines Connection readers through December 25, 2023. Visit bmwchampionship.com to secure tickets for the penultimate event of the PGA TOUR’s FedExCup Playoffs, to be held Aug. 20-25 in The Village at Castle Pines. Tickets are expected to sell quickly…
The minty, peppy, fresh scent and flavor of peppermint packs a punch. While refreshing as a breath mint or tea, peppermint may also be linked to health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting focus, and relieving migraines, according to healthline.com. Peppermint is an aromatic herb with leaves that contain several essential oils, including menthol, menthone and…
October was breast cancer awareness month and Kim Becker made a contribution. She hosted a fundraiser with the ONEHOPE Foundation (ONEHOPE) to raise money for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). “My mom is a breast cancer survivor and many of my friends have had breast cancer, so I wanted to raise money to…
Congratulations to the 80108 student athletes who signed letters of intent to play their sport at the next level: Olivia Barrett Soccer Colorado Mesa University Coach Mathew Henbest stated, “Olivia really came through for us last year as a starter. Her aggressive play in the back and eagerness to get forward in the attack…
School Resource Officer (SRO) Deputy Eric Rhymer has some new wheels to help him reach the students on the campus of American Academy (AA). The new ride will surely catch the eye; it is atypical of what one might find a sheriff’s deputy in. This SRO can be found checking on the school kids…
The “Pumpkin Shine” event was a fun, at-home project put on by the Timber Trial Elementary Parent Teacher Organization. Students in kindergarten through fifth grade, along with their families, decorated a craft pumpkin to resemble their favorite character in a book they had read or listened to. Characters ranged from classic children’s books to popular…
DCS Montessori (DCSM) middle school students sponsored a food drive to raise essential items for Bin Blessed, a nonprofit organization providing support to There With Care, an organization which provides meaningful services to families and children during the critical phase of a medical crisis. The one-week drive was a project for the students’ service…
The American Academy (AA) community welcomed 50 veterans to honor them for their service and duty during the annual Veterans Day Breakfast on November 11. The celebration kicked off with an assembly introducing all six branches of the military, then a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the national anthem performed by…
Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) senior Charlie Tucker took home a double win from the 5A Boys Golf State Championship in Fort Collins in October. The RCHS boys varsity golf team won the state championship and Tucker won the individual title. The 18-year-old has been serious about golf since he was 10, when he got…
Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) produces two plays a year; the fall performance this year was the comedy Help Desk by Don Zolidis. When choosing a play, the performing arts department has a general rubric they use: shows with as large a cast as possible so more students can participate; running time of around…
It was a clean sweep last month at the Continental League for the Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) spirit teams. Varsity cheer, junior varsity coed cheer, varsity poms and junior varsity poms all finished in first place. The Continental League consists of 11 high schools – Castle View, Chaparral, Douglas County, Heritage, Highlands Ranch,…
Jags Go Pink (JGP), a new club at Rock Canyon High School (RCHS), hosted Pink Week to raise money for breast cancer research. Led by two students, 16-year-old juniors Claire Weiffenbach and Amelia Solano, the two organized a series of impactful events in the true spirit of community service. Inspired by the success of RCHS’s…
This issue is dedicated to those who have served in the military and their families. We remember and honor those who came home, those yet to come home, and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. For anyone currently serving in the global conflicts, thank you for your service and that of your family. Freedom isn’t…
The community is abuzz with discussions about the possibility of a McDonald’s restaurant coming to town. The potential addition would be built on the southwest corner of Castle Pines Parkway and Lagae Road. According to early filings on the City’s development activity map, the proposed site would be a 3,900 square foot franchise of the…
In April, the City of Castle Pines mailed residents a postcard featuring upcoming 2023 events. Since the mailing of that first postcard, the city has added some additional events to the calendar and has adjusted a couple of the event dates and times. The City will be mailing out an updated postcard soon – if…
Thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous Douglas County citizen, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) can supply 180 older adults with MedicAlert’s services. Older Adults who live in unincorporated Douglas County, Castle Pines, Franktown or Larkspur are eligible. Service is limited and is on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you or someone you…
As of October 1, there were 296,557 active citizens registered to vote in Douglas County. Democrats numbered 53,725 Republicans 97,712, Unaffiliated 140,493 and other affiliations 4,627. While many citizens mailed or cast their votes during Early Voting in October, Ballot Drop Box locations will be available 24 hours a day until 7 p.m. on Election…
The Castle Pines North Metro District (CPNMD) Board of Directors signed Resolution No. 2023-10-01 in October, supporting a “yes” vote on the City of Castle Pines Ballot Measure 2F for the upcoming November 7 regular election. The ballot measure authorizes an ad valorem property tax of 12 mills for park, recreation and trailhead open space…
Forest Park residents could not help but notice the slew of maintenance workers along Forest Park Drive making numerous changes and improvements. Homeowners learned this work is part of a citywide Pavement Maintenance Program (PMP). Each year, the City of Castle Pines begins a refresh of neighborhood streets by making improvements to roads and infrastructure,…
Maggie Lugo is a business development and recruiting executive in the consulting world. She works for TGRP Solutions as the director of consulting operations, but she recently uncovered a new passion: she created a forum where women can connect and consult with one another. Lugo got the idea while surveying the spaces where she works. …
Dani Salas is a Brazilian native who has called Castle Pines home since 2021. As a dedicated parent, Dani and her fiancé juggle the responsibilities of a beautiful blended family of five children. With a background in mass communication and journalism, she has a natural flair for storytelling and communication. Dani’s passion for health and…
The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce is planning a party with a purpose this December 5 for guests to give where they live on Colorado Gives Day this year. Each year, the Chamber supports its nonprofit members by hosting a holiday party at the beautiful Haven in the Pines in the Village at Castle Pines.…
The best self-defense strategies and techniques work equally for men and women; however, statistically women are assaulted more than men. The numbers indicate that one in three women will be the victim of some type of violent attack in her lifetime. Women also endure more incidents of verbal and sexual harassment than men. Jeff “Gunny”…
What happens when you pair a coffee lover with a book lover? The result is a big cup of love. That is how friends describe the coupling of Aidan Gray and Olivia Dolby. The two met at a Dungeons & Dragons event and since then, have been brewing drops of happiness living at the Marquis…
A pet is a special addition to any family, especially one with a child who has unique needs. Poppet was one such pet for the Guthrie family. Michael, the youngest of Doug and Claire Guthrie’s five children, had a special bond with the chocolate Labrador, and when they lost Poppet, it left a void that…
“I want to have this warrior mindset and I am going to overcome whatever happens.” – Hunter Graham This is a story of a family who overcame bad news with hope, mindset and faith; today, they are appreciating life’s silver linings. Two years ago, Courtney Graham’s focus was largely on work. As a chief people…
According to Psychology Today, British psychologist Dr. Richard Wiseman found that the overall pace of life has increased 10% worldwide since the mid 1990s. In some places, it has even increased by 20%. Buffalo Ridge Estates residents Tim and Jennifer Knowlton run at a pace of their own, living in the now with their careers…
Do we ever really know our neighbors? It is something many of us joke about during cul-de-sac get togethers or neighborhood holiday parties. Hopefully, that is why you enjoy flipping through the pages of The Connection, a place you can turn to learn a little more about your neighbor next door. Scott Argiro has called…
Honor Their Sacrifice. Educate Their Legacy. That is the beautiful mission of Folds of Honor (FOH), a national nonprofit organization started by Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, dedicated to providing educational assistance to dependents of those who sacrificed so much. In 2007, after his second tour in Iraq, Rooney was traveling home to Grand Rapids, Michigan…
In an era where valor and service to one’s country often take a backseat to the hustle and bustle of modern life, it is essential to recognize and celebrate individuals who have dedicated their lives to protecting and serving the nation. Winter Berry resident Lieutenant Colonel Greg Robinson, a true patriot and a symbol of…
In a quiet corner of Benedict’s Restaurant, a group of veterans gathers regularly to share their stories and connect each month. Known as the “Veterans Breakfast Group,” this close-knit assembly of servicemen and women has become a vital network across several generations. “We’re not a religious group, though a lot of us know each other…
Dear Readers, A few things to think about as we get ready for the holiday mail. I want to dive into addressing cards, specifically the honorific usage and the plural usage. Holiday cards can be trickier than they seem. Getting a good/sweet/funny photo of your family and tracking down friends’ addresses can be just the…
This time of year, it is easy to get caught in the hustle and bustle of the impending holiday season. But November is also the month of thanksgiving: both a ritualized meal and the art of giving thanks. This month’s book recommendations focus on the simple and powerful practice of gratitude. Thanks A Thousand: A…
When a service member retires from the military, evaluations are made on mental and physical health to establish a barometer of disability for pensions and compensations. For some veterans going through the process, it is a good experience. For others, navigating the system with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is challenging. Command Chief Master…
The American Legion 1187 in Castle Rock held its annual birthday banquet on October 14. A special award was presented to Dale Erickson, Army veteran and founding member of Post 1187. Erickson was presented with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award certificate and letter issued from the White House recognizing his 7,861 hours of volunteer service…
Veterans not only deserve being celebrated and honored on Veterans Day, they deserve support all year long. One way to do this is by highlighting the threefold mission of the Douglas County Veterans Monument Foundation (DCVMF). First, DCVMF maintains the monument, Freedom’s Keeper, a memorial in Castle Rock with the six service seals of…
This crossword brought to you by Tammy Lopez with Allstate Insurance (720) 733-1331. Across 1. Rain and snow mix 6. Romanov ruler 10. Chapter 11 issue 14. Mrs. Bush 15. Buckeye State 16. Arab ruler 17. Dismantle, as a sailing vessel 18. Threadbare 19. Audiophile’s brand 20. GPS treasures 22. To don 23. Fugard’s “A Lesson…
There is a saying, “goodbye tension, hello pension,” and Beverly Hills Estates resident Deb Nelson has embraced her retirement from the Navy and IT career in full: fly fishing, volunteering and enjoying her family. Born in Minnesota, Nelson’s dad joined the Navy after dental school, so the family moved on a regular basis. The last…
Have you ever hiked Sandstone Ranch? It is a grand, sculpted piece of Douglas County open space inventory bounded by Gove Creek and located south of Highway 105 and the Perry Park Road intersection. In 1870, 30-year-old Civil War veteran William “Allan” Dakan soloed westward to claim a cabin on lower Gove Creek, near blacksmith…
Friends, family, neighbors and the community came out to celebrate the legacy of Paul Dannels on September 24 for the fourth annual walk to benefit Paul’s Mystery Ship to End ALS. Paul was a good man with a gentle spirit, and for 34 years he served as the district manager of The Village at Castle…
A debt of gratitude was paid to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office’s (DCSO) K-9 Unit and officers for keeping our community safe 24/7/365. At the Friends of Douglas County K-9’s 12th annual Howling Good Time Gala, funds were raised so that K-9 heroes are given the best healthcare, equipment and support during their careers and…
Get ready to embrace the spirit of fall as you participate in the city of Castle Pines leaf and pumpkin recycling event on Saturday, November 4, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Elk Ridge Park. No bags will be accepted at the event; all leaves will be emptied out of the bags on-site. These…
Tri Arts Project (TAP) hosted its inaugural fundraising gala, The Art of Giving, October 14 at the Barn at Rancho Vaya Con Dios in Castle Rock. The western-themed event was attended by town officials, local artists and patrons, and raised $65,000 toward the goal of creating a place in Castle Rock for the education, presentation…
I’m way too middle-aged to spend much time on TikTok, but I’m not ashamed to say that in the last few years, most of my cooking inspiration comes from 30-second videos. Shot on phone cameras and created in the well-lit corners of Gen Z apartments (shared with an unholy number of roommates, no doubt), I’ve…
Residents had a fantastic time at the second annual HOA2 Fall Festival on Sunday, October 8. This event took place at the clubhouse and was organized by the neighborhood social committee chair, Rudy Will. From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., families enjoyed a variety of activities: face painting, a petting zoo, a food truck and…
Retired Air Force Major Carl Armani, who turns 85 later this month, fulfilled a life-long dream of flying in a WWII British Spitfire fighter plane. His family surprised him with an early birthday present in August while visiting his son and his family who live in England. “It was on my bucket list,” said Armani. …
Dr. Kelly McDonald Freeman described it as a full circle moment when she returned to her alma mater to be inducted into the Texas Athletics Hall of Honors at the University of Texas in Austin in September. “It was an amazing weekend of festivities and ceremonies,” said Freeman, who lives in the Winterberry neighborhood with…
It is a fact of life we are exposed to multiple toxins every day, and our bodies do an incredible job of detoxifying – to a point. Experts say it is about the cumulative load of toxins and everyone has their own threshold of when the body becomes overwhelmed and affected by the amount of…
The Castle Pines Athletics NFL flag football program ended this fall with new champions winning the Super Bowl. The program will pick up again in 2024 with registration beginning January 1. For more information visit castlepinesathletics.com. By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Castle Pines Athletics
The HOYA Foundation is an organization that works with the U.S. Department of Transportation to garner support for small businesses that work in the transportation and construction industries. Based in Arvada, the nonprofit hosts an annual expo, Transportation and Construction Girl, a program that encourages young women to pursue careers to meet the workforce shortage…