Read the stories from the latest issue:
The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate breed with a royal history. Originally bred to live in Chinese imperial palaces, these dogs were bred purely for companionship, not work or protection. Weighing between nine and 16 pounds, they carry themselves with charm and confidence. Their biggest strength is their emotional connection to their owners and…
Colorado’s sunny days and beauty invite us to spend time outdoors. But as a semi-arid region with generally quite low humidity and an average elevation of about 6,800 feet above sea level, there are some considerations for living in the state and enjoying outdoor time. Colorado’s elevation is higher than many other parts of the…
To honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we return to shine a light on Sense of Security (SOS). This Denver-based nonprofit is celebrating 25 years of assisting Colorado breast cancer patients with a Splash of Pink celebration on Saturday, October 18 at the Cable Center in Denver. It is a remarkable milestone. SOS supports patients facing…
It was by fate and then luck that Olin John “Jack” and later “Doc Jack” Butterfield and Dorothy Benway of Sedalia met and married. Both were born in the late 1890s. Dorothy’s father was a prosperous merchant in Lincoln, Nebraska, until a newly-purchased neon sign for his store sparked an electrical fire and destroyed his…
To honor the firefighters from 9/11, the Colorado 9/11 Stair Climb originated when five Denver firefighters climbed 110 stories of a high-rise office building in downtown Denver in 2005. In the following years, the Stair Climb grew in popularity until it was officially established by the West Metro Firefighters Local 1309 in 2009 and found…
Arachnophobia, or the pathological fear of spiders, afflicts one in three people in the United States. It is one of the most prolific specific phobias across geographical and cultural boundaries, according to Psychology Today. With roughly 35,000 spider species world-wide, only about a dozen are potentially lethal to humans. The eight-legged creatures are often vilified…
Dear Mrs. A. Would you give us some etiquette tips for Halloween? -Scary Mary in Hidden Pointe Dear Mary, Isn’t it a fun time of year, and aren’t we lucky to live in neighborhoods that enjoy and support Halloween festivities? Here are some ways to participate if you choose to: Give trick or treaters a…
When working in a dark basement or dusty shed, most people know to keep an eye out for a tiny but potent danger—the western black widow spider (Latrodectus hesperus). But how dangerous are they really? Black widows tend to live in dark, undisturbed areas, usually close to the ground. They can be found under shrubs,…
Douglas County’s Senior Life held its biennial event, Vintage & Vibrant, last month at the Highlands Ranch Senior Center. More than 200 seniors, volunteers and partners participated in the breakfast – lunch event. Dr. Nalin Mehta spoke about nanobiotechnology in medicine, a technology that plays a growing role in both diagnostic and therapeutic medicine. The…
October is the month to run through a haunted house and get the heart racing, learn our haunted history on a Denver ghost tour or take a hayride and meander through a pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin. Here is a list of attractions to choose from, whether one is looking for a fright…
Special thanks to Kristin Olsen, winner of The Connection’s Colorado Highland Games social media ticket giveaway, for sharing her photos from the event at the Denver Polo Club in Sedalia last month with us. Kristin is pictured below with a craftsman who was demonstrating how to make a “targe,” a Scottish shield. To learn more,…
On August 22, more than 600 neighbors gathered at the Village Shops for Vino in the Village, the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce’s signature event. In its 10th year, the popular party has sold out multiple years in a row and this year was no exception. Guests enjoyed chatting with vendors, listening to live music…
From amusement park rides to live music, this year’s Party in the Park was one for the books. On August 23, neighbors came together at Elk Ridge Park to close out the summer with a night of celebration. The annual event is organized by the City of Castle Pines and the Chamber and has become…
Crosswords brought to you by Allstate Insurance — Tammy Lopez (720) 733-1331 Across 1. Pa’s spouse 3. Negative 5. Brightly-colored parrot 7. A deadly sin 9. Knight’s “suit” 12. Sine or cosine 13. Wolf, grass, house, e.g. 14. Ghost’s cry 16. Astronomer Johannes 17. Ghost costume? 18. Menial 19. Like a chili pepper 20.…
As a part of the 2025 “A Trip Around the World” activities, residents at Legacy Village of Castle Pines were treated to a Hawaiian-themed celebration with no travel required. The WIKI WIKI Band played island favorites like “Blue Hawaii” and “Tiny Bubbles,” while a talented hula dancer brought the spirit of Hawaii to the community.…
Cozy season has begun and I am here for it. Snuggly sweaters, fluffy slippers and deliciously warming creations from the kitchen are exactly what I’m craving as the weather cools. I can’t determine who decided that October, in addition to all things pumpkin spice, was the month of the slow cooker, but I’m here for…
Pears are the perfect fall fruit. Anything an apple can do, a pear can do, too. Juicy and sweet, pears can be snacked on fresh, added to hearty salads and featured in bubbling crisps and pies. According to usapears.com, pears are an excellent source of dietary fiber and are low in calories. Pears contain vitamin…
To be of service. To help others. We often hear that call to action, but we do not always know what it looks like to get involved. It can be simple, like loaning a neighbor a hand when needed. It can be leaning into the gifts we were given––like the ability to swim and the…
The last week of August was a busy time at Marla Jensen’s home in Whisper Canyon as she hosted her annual pickleball and Mahjong tournaments. This year, there were six pickleball teams all with coordinated outfits and creative pickleball-themed names. “Unfortunately, the weather had a mind of its own and we had to suspend play…
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM), a global campaign to raise awareness for breast cancer, increase screenings and provide critical support for patients and survivors. Since 1989, increased awareness through campaigns like BCAM has helped reduce breast cancer deaths in the United States by 44%, according to the American Cancer Society. Mammograms, X-rays of…
Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) school gained another Mr. Ryckman this year. Tim Ryckman has been BRE’s art teacher for nearly a decade but that classroom is now the domain of Jack Ryckman. Tim shifted focus and created a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) class and curriculum, which left an opening in the art…
Classes at Buffalo Ridge Elementary are back in session, but not everyone is ready to get to work. The school security guard captured this special photo of eager fourth graders in Mrs. Acosta’s class lined up at the window, excited to see a curious baby deer outside of their classroom. No doubt, we live in…
On August 16, American Academy’s (AA) three campuses celebrated their 20th anniversary at Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock. The event was filled with music, food and heartfelt connection as families, staff, students and alumni came together to honor AA’s growth, academic excellence and community spirit. Three original staff members—Mark Middlebrooks, Laurie Neil and…
Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) students enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon at the annual Back to School Splash, held in September. The schoolyard transformed into a welcome back celebration featuring giant inflatables, lawn games, face painting and a foam party. The dunk tank was especially popular, giving students the chance to throw a ball to engage a…
Dining meets dopamine It is lights out and away we go! The F1 Arcade Denver had its grand opening on September 10. Located northeast of downtown Denver in the River North Arts District, known colloquially as “RiNo,” the experience had all the excitement and adrenaline rush of a Grand Prix race where high-octane excitement meets…
Pierce Jacoway’s heart is with firefighting and family. Married to Jen for 17 years, the couple have two boys, Cooper (13) and Griffin (9) and Lucy, a yellow lab. Living in the Knightsbridge neighborhood, the Jacoways love sports, with the boys heavily involved in baseball and football. They can also be found camping, skiing, fishing…
Douglas County officials recently held the groundbreaking for a future biochar and waste diversion facility in Sedalia, south of Airport Road, off of US Highway 85. The facility, which is intended to be a sustainable solution for wildfire mitigation debris, will be operational in spring 2026 and the first county-owned and operated biochar facility in…
With an anticipated completion date of late 2025, the world’s largest wildlife overpass is being constructed over I-25 in southern Douglas County near the Greenland interchange between Larkspur and Monument. Called the Greenland Wildlife Overpass, the project reached the half-way milestone in late July and is a critical component of the overall wildlife crossing system…
The Town of Castle Rock (Town) is planning to widen Fifth Street in downtown Castle Rock, a major arterial road connecting local and regional travel between the eastern areas of downtown and I-25. With approvals by Town Council, construction will begin this month and be competed in 2029. Roadway and pedestrian improvements for Fifth Street…
In August, the Highlands Ranch Community Association’s Backcountry Wilderness Area (BWA) expanded its Sunshine & Storytime program to serve more children in the community. The program now offers increased weekly outdoor story times, from one to three times per week, to meet the growing community demand. Each week, the story will be different with themes…
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will be in place for all areas of Douglas County due to heightened fire danger conditions. These restrictions are implemented to reduce the risk of wildfires and ensure public safety throughout the county. The following activities are not allowed under Stage 1 Restrictions: No open burning of any kind No…
On August 4, a district court judge in Douglas County sided with the City of Castle Pines in upholding the City Council’s denial of a McDonald’s drive-through restaurant in the Parkway Plaza development in the vicinity of the intersection of Lagae Road and Castle Pines Parkway. The property owner of the proposed McDonald’s site initiated…
We all play a role in preserving Colorado’s most precious resource: water. The Castle Pines North Metro District (CPNMD) partners with Resource Central, an environmental nonprofit, to offer practical tools to save water, reduce outdoor watering costs and create beautiful, waterwise landscapes. “If you’ve been thinking about replacing your lawn, now is the time to…
On July 9, the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) launched Colorado LIFTS (Linking Individuals and Families To Services), a new way to connect people in Colorado with a statewide, connected network of mental health, substance use, crisis support and care navigation. “Since taking office, our administration has been committed to increasing behavioral health support for…
The 2026 Douglas County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) is underway, and the County is asking residents to take a survey to help identify safety issues and potential problems in our area, specific to homes and property. The HMP identifies and evaluates risks and vulnerabilities associated with hazards and resulting disasters and leads to development of…
Baseball and softball players in Colorado now have a new home to improve their swings. Longtime HOA2 resident Todd Rafter and his business partner Lorne Levy opened the state’s first Gradum Gswing franchise last fall. The facility is already gaining popularity as a training spot for players of all ages. Located in Centennial, Gradum Gswing…
This partnership is about feeding the whole person—body and spirit. – Terri Wiebold, Publisher, The Castle Pines Connection A new partnership between The Castle Pines Connection and Nourish Meals on Wheels is delivering more than just hot meals, it is bringing uplifting local stories right to the doorsteps of Douglas County’s most isolated seniors.…
Jada Horan Freelance photographer and writer Jada was born and raised in Colorado, and she has lived in Castle Pines for most of her life. She attended Timber Trail Elementary, Rocky Heights Middle School and Rock Canyon High School and was on yearbook in both middle school and high school. “It wasn’t until my freshman…
The Castle Pines Connection would like to congratulate our very own editor, Hollen Wheeler (pictured left), on being accepted into Leadership Douglas County (LDC) 2025-26. The Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce created LDC to “continue to identify, educate and motivate current and emerging leaders to improve Douglas County through personal and collective commitment.” The two-year…
The school year is officially underway, which means the halls and classrooms at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) are once again filled with the contagious grin, spirit and purple treat-filled pockets of Bill Philbin, better known to students and staff as “Mr. Purple.” Bill, a retired Hewlett-Packard engineer, spends his days caring for his grandson Patrick,…
It was health and fitness that brought Joe and Treva Brown together when they met at a gym in Clearwater, Florida in 2000. Raised in Columbus, Wisconsin, Joe earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and then moved to Florida to become a paramedic and firefighter after the attacks…
In every culture, in every corner of the world, people set tables to gather around—to share a meal, to share a story, to come together. At the table, we remember what makes us human. Communal dining embraces the idea of equality and inclusivity, where common ground can be found. Jake Mathis and his wife, Megan,…
Ellen O’Connor grew up near the beach in New Jersey, spent a few years living in Carmel, California, and then landed smack in the middle of the two coasts with her husband, John, in 2001. Current residents of HOA1, John bought their house in 1985. For the past five years, Ellen has worked as a…
In Colorado, most of us love our Denver Broncos football team: cheering them when they are winning and chiding them when they are not. The Broncos and Colorado have a long history together, going back more than 60 years. Bob Howsam, a successful minor league baseball owner, founded the Denver Broncos when he was awarded…
An estimated 1.9 million new cancer cases are diagnosed across the country each year, according to the American Cancer Society. For those who face this life-changing disease, their day-to-day focus shifts to treatment and care, leaving less time and money for everything else. A national nonprofit established in 2006, Cleaning for a Reason, provides…
Adventure stories have captured imaginations for centuries. Full of exploration, risk and danger, epic quests, and challenges to overcome with courage and a sense of wonder or curiosity, these stories provide hope and entertainment. So, pick your own adventure with these book recommendations. The Martian by Andy Weir is a science fiction adventure set on…
On August 15, community members met at the Millhouse at Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock for an evening of fun, ice cream, games and celebration as they honored two decades of supporting youth in our community. The Douglas County Youth Initiative (DCYI) is a collaboration among Douglas County, Douglas County Schools, Douglas County…
Autumn is coming: colorful falling leaves, cooler evenings, and the perfect opportunity to enjoy outdoor fall festivals with family and friends. With fun ranging from arts, crafts and hayrides to pumpkin picking, games and live music, there is something for everyone. Here are some nearby festivals to enjoy: Castle Rock ArtFest This community art festival…
What started as a surprise two-week 40th birthday trip to England for Travis Hunt ended with a loving expansion of his family from four, his wife, Robyn, and their two boys Braden (22) Gavin (20), to five, with the addition of English bulldog Belle. Robyn’s birthday gift gave Travis a newfound love of both…
In 2020, a global men’s fitness group, F3 Nation, began a Castle Pines chapter and it is going strong today (see The Connection July 2023, “Men’s group more than meets the eye”). F3 blends physical fitness with leadership development and community impact. F3, which stands for Fitness, Fellowship and Faith, originated in North Carolina in…
The Castle Pines Connection is partnering with businesses and neighbors to purchase “wish list” classroom supplies for local teachers. If you would like to nominate a favorite teacher from American Academy, Buffalo Ridge Elementary, DCS Montessori, Timber Trail Elementary, Rocky Heights Middle School or Rock Canyon High School for us to complete their classroom, send…
Picking up where we left off last month, James Abbe’s roaring lifestyle had a way of unraveling marriages. In 1944, he and Polly separated. After co-authoring three travel books, their children were by then quite well-adjusted and aging well with a passion for nature. True to form, Patience went on to co-author the book…
Dear Mrs. A. There are kids walking across my yard to school and it’s creating an unwanted path. What is the etiquette? Green Briar Granny Dear Granny- No one wants to be that person who yells at the kids to “stay off my lawn.” But I completely understand, and I think it’s a perfect…
In its fourth year, the social committee for the Forest Park neighborhood held Summer Soiree: Sip, Swirl and Savor in July. Eighty neighbors gathered for wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres at the clubhouse in Forest Park. “This event is special because it gives us an opportunity to catch up with old friends, acquaintances and new…
Crossword brought to you by Allstate Insurance — Tammy Lopez (720) 733-1331 Across 1. Islamic pilgrimage 4. Clumsy sort 7. Short-haired hunting dogs 11. It may be stolen 12. Peruvian empire 13. Witch craft 15. Eavesdrops 17. Sarcastic military acronym 18. Old White House nickname 19. Frat candidate 21. Foal’s mother 22. Shot ___…
Award-winning investigative journalist Tony Kovaleski clued his mom in early about his life’s direction. When he was only 5 years old and given the gift of a snare drum, he took a drumstick and rammed it through the drumhead. Asked to explain, Tony said he was curious about what was inside. Born in Michigan’s Upper…
One of my favorite ways to relax is to try a new recipe. I’ve been a home cook and baker for long enough now that most of the time even an unfamiliar recipe is a sufficient guide for a delicious new addition to my kitchen repertoire. I recently saw a recipe developer post a creation…
Did you know that eggplants are technically a fruit and not a vegetable? This is because they grow from a flowering plant and contain seeds. Also known as aubergines, eggplants belong to the nightshade family of plants and are enjoyed around the world. A nutrient-dense food, eggplants have research-backed health benefits and are incredibly versatile.…
This year’s X Drive Classic golf tournament (X Drive), held at The Club at Pradera on July 28, sold out in less than 24 hours. The event raises awareness of Fragile X Syndrome and supports organizations that assist children and adults with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities. A massive milestone was reached this year…
Electric bicycles (e-bikes) have become popular for both adults and teens. They have a motor to assist with pedaling, making riding and hill climbing easier. HOA2 resident Sarah Allison and her husband recently purchased an e-bike to share to explore more trails. “It’s been fun getting to use some of the trails that were out…
The American Academy Performing Arts Program (AAPA) made up of the three American Academy campuses lit up The Schoolhouse Theater in downtown Parker this summer with three spectacular performances. AAPA adapted Disney’s Moana JR.: The Voyagers, directed by Olivia Andrunik, Jordon Stifle and Jared Engerman, and featured elementary students from the Castle Pines campus. Moana…
In an update to an article published in The Connection in April, Earth’s End: Journey to the Mountain is a picture book written and illustrated by middle school students from DCS Montessori (DCSM) and Nakamura Junior High School (NJHS) in Tokyo, Japan. The bilingual book was created through the OneWorld Book program as part of…
An extraordinary space converted for the community As we say goodbye to summer and usher in cooler days, fall also brings Oktoberfest. What better spot to celebrate and experience the German beer festival than at a converted airplane hangar? Tucked under the wing of an authentic B52 bomber, outside the entrance to the Wings Over…
Art on the Streets (AOTS) brings downtown Colorado Springs to life with displays of public art. Now in its 27th year, the selected exhibitions are showcased in a downtown gallery for one year. In 2025, a panel of jurors selected from nearly 150 proposals submitted by artists from across the state, the country and around…
During the June 24 City of Castle Pines City Council meeting, Council approved the addition of a roundabout at the intersection of Buffalo Trail and Monarch Boulevard. This addition will be completed as part of the ongoing 2025 Monarch Boulevard reconstruction project. The addition of the roundabout will: Improve the ability to make a left…
Following community feedback and further fire risk analysis, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners decided not to pursue camping at Sandstone Ranch any further. “We have heard from citizens that it is necessary we find a balance between providing recreation amenities in Douglas County while also prioritizing public safety,” said Commissioner Abe Laydon. Information…
A storage facility is scheduled to open in January 2026 on the southwest corner of Castle Pines Parkway and Lagae Road. For more information, email communications@castlepinesco.gov. Information and renderings provided by the City of Castle Pines; photo by Hollen Wheeler
A proposed mixed-use development near downtown Castle Rock is in the works. Called The Brickyard, the urban renewal area will include a four-star hotel, six new restaurants, a state-of-the-art recreation center, an entertainment venue, plus 500 homes, primarily apartments and town homes. Just west of I-25 on Prairie Hawk Drive, the 31-acre site is currently…
In July, Douglas County secured $500,000 in federal funding to go toward widening the “gap” on US Highway 85 between Sedalia and Castle Rock. Prior partnerships with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) have yielded progress, yet the remaining segment between Sedalia and Castle Rock faces ongoing safety, capacity and congestion challenges. This funding will…
The Louviers fire (also known as the Airport Fire) was 100% contained within three days, according to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) and the Office of Emergency Management. Thanks to efforts of all the fire crews, support personnel and agencies who worked around the clock to protect lives and property. Mild weather conditions also…