The Connection

By Elean Gersack; logo courtesy of Steve Ihme and Drew Irwin Last August, we introduced our readers to the Ihme family and told the story of their annual golf tournament benefiting Children’s Hospital Colorado. Castle Pines resident Steve Ihme lost his brother Rich to leukemia in 1985, and every year since 2003 he and his…

Article by Elean Gersack;  photo courtesy of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) has teamed up with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to help rid homes of unused or unwanted prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. The agencies will be on hand on Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 2…

Employees from Big O Tires manned phone banks and distributed “Little O” dolls to patients at Children’s Hospital as part of the Alice 105.9 radiothon “36 Hours for Kids,” which raised more than $1.8 million for the hospital. By Lisa Crockett; photos courtesy of Big O Tires, Castle Pines In keeping with a long-standing tradition,…

Information provided by Canyon Fitness April 30 from 5 p.m to 8 p.m., join in the celebration with live music, silent auction, zumba party, jagged edge crossfit challenge workout, and Taste of Castle Rock & Castle Pines. Open to Everyone! We are lighting up the building blue at 6:30 p.m – this event occurs around…

Brooks Kaufman, Lands and Rights of Way Director for IREA, spoke at a city council meeting in February. The council approved the construction of a new IREA substation in The Canyons development, adjacent to Happy Canyon Estates.  Article and photo by Lisa Crockett In February, the Castle Pines City Council gave the green light for…

Rocky Heights Middle School student Zach Merriman, whose family lives in Surrey Ridge, gladly had his head shaved in honor of his late “ninja” friend Justin Miller. Merriman smiled as he saw the transformation and his hair disappear. Always having a good attitude, Merriman acknowledges that this was a great experience. By Patte Smith; photos…

RCHS volunteers help students create art projects at Escuela Verde in Uvita, Costa Rica. By Michael Shapiro, RCHS intern writer; photo courtesy of Stephanie Varga In Costa Rica, the median income per household is just above $7,000.  In Castle Pines, the median income per household is roughly $155,000.  While Costa Rica means “rich coast” when…

By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of Mark Wilkins of Castle Pines Images More than 130 students participated in the “Puttin’ on the Glitz” fashion show, a favorite Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) tradition, on February 23 at the DTC Marriott. For the students who modeled, it was a fun opportunity to “rock the runway”, earn…

Sahil Malik (left) and Carter Spielmann (right) took first place at Timber Trail Elementary’s “Invention Convention” for their magnetized shoelaces.  The invention solves the problem of shoes that won’t stay tied. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett Have you ever been bothered by cold ears while skiing? Do bath towels on the floor drive you…

Castle Pines residents (left to right) Nora Gentile, Timothy Toole and Alexis Wilderman performed in the play “Life is a Dream” at Regis Jesuit High School and received outstanding reviews. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Patti Toole Over the weekend of March 14 to 16, Regis Jesuit High School (RJ) was proud to present…

This elegantly-appointed and spacious private executive lounge is available for relaxing before and after flights and is stocked with beverages and snacks. It is part of the 5,100 square-foot facility which includes Jet Linx corporate offices, located at Centennial Airport, 8001 S. Interport Blvd, Suite 140 in Englewood. By Joe Gschwendtner; photos courtesy of Jet…

Information provided by the Lone Tree Arts Center Guild and the Wild Animal Sanctuary The Lone Tree Arts Center Guild (LTACG) is hosting a fascinating and educational evening with Pat Craig, founder of The Wild Animal Sanctuary (TWAS) in Keenesburg, Colorado. The event is April 21 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Lone Tree…

Charlene and Greg Johnson (pictured center) were excited to feature Moors and McCumber at their house concert on March 14. The concert attracted 65 people and the band didn’t disappoint! The musical duo performed well into the evening and utilized numerous instruments along with their unique harmonies to create a memorable night. By Amy Shanahan;…

By Steve Baska A representative of a new communications firm hired by the Castle Pines City Council discussed goals with the council on March 11. Council hired Slate Communications out of Ft. Collins on February 25. Depending upon the amount of work to be done, up to $6,400 per month was allocated, for an annual…

By RHMS eighth grade student Maria Pangalos Life is a journey, not a destination.  Why not enjoy the ride and make the best of it?  Get ready to turn your can’ts into cans and your dreams into plans because Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) has just the thing for you this summer.   During the…

Dr. Brad Duhon is the director of neurosurgery and chief of surgery at Castle Rock Adventist Hospital. He and his family moved to Happy Canyon in 2013 and have been adjusting to their new rural surroundings with humor and gratitude. By Elizabeth Wood West; photo courtesy of Deborah Duhon Duhon said, “When we were moving,…

Colorado’s own “Firefall” took time back stage for a photo op with Castle Pines Connection staffer and event volunteer Sharon Kollmar (in yellow). Proceeds from the concert benefitted the Douglas/Elbert Task Force. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Peter Cranstone Colorado’s own platinum recording artist “Firefall” broke out some old favorites for the 30th anniversary…

NHTV students Ally Pfeiffer and Sydney Dicarlo (left)filmed their randomly-selected student Bryce Schmuhl and learned many interesting facts about his life. Lauren Kelly conducted the interview while Lyla Padden kept track of facts and noted them on the storyboard. The project was very labor intensive, but the end result was fascinating and enlightening. Submitted by…

These ten students from RHMS competed against the top math students in the region. Luke Zhang, Carissa Tan, Amber Liu and Sonia Chu took second place as a team and will move on to the state competition. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Christopher Gowing Rocky Heights Middle School was proud to take second place…

By Steve Baska The Douglas County Board of Commissioners recently replaced two resolutions that banned open carry of guns in its county facilities, parks, trails, and open spaces with a new resolution that allows open carry of guns in those places – with the exception being the Robert A. Christensen Justice Center where the courts…

Team member and Castle Pines Village resident Dane Westen felt pressure to win the Silver Sticks Hockey Tournament, knowing his team would be the first ever from the state of Colorado. “When we won the tournament in Canada we all got to throw our gloves, sticks and helmets on the ice and skate around and…

Katelyn and Andrew Stevens enjoy the scenery, including this Eiffel Tower, which was festively lit Article and photos by Lisa Crockett Ooh, la la! Timber Trail Elementary girls were treated to a night on the town with their dads last month at the school’s annual Daddy-Daughter Dance. This year’s theme – “A Night in Paris”…

The Fusion Lab in the Parker Library, which opened last month, offers a wide array of sophisticated software and equipment for music, audio and video production, and media preservation. The lab, called a “maker space” is the first of its kind in the Douglas County Library system. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett What used…

Castle Pines resident Sara McCaslin at the “Go Red for Women” event at the Park Meadows Retail Resort last month. McCaslin, who is an American Heart Association volunteer and heart attack survivor speaks to groups to raise awareness about heart disease. Outfitted in a new red geometric-pattern dress (compliments of Macy’s), she shared her story…

American Academy Ghana Club board members visited with the Rotary Club of Castle Pines on January 16. The Rotary granted the club $500 to help grow the program. Back Row: Howard Rosch, president Rotary Club of Castle Pines; Ben Wolfe, teacher/Ghana Club sponsor at American Academy; and Ron West, president Rotary Club of Castle Pines…

Article and photo by Amy Shanahan The beautiful new Canyon Fitness health club held its official grand opening on Wednesday, January 29. The event was attended by more than four hundred enthusiastic gym and community members. The “John Saunders Band” kept things rockin’ downstairs, while attendees enjoyed wine and delicious food from The Social. Upstairs…

Rock Canyon High School students pose for the camera following the conclusion of the competition on Friday, February 7. By Michael Shapiro, RCHS intern writer; photo courtesy of Jana Robinette On Friday, February 7, roughly 1,000 high school students from across Douglas County descended on the Denver First Church for the Future Business Leaders of…

Letter sent by the Douglas County School District on February 13 Dear Douglas County Parents, As you know, the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. You may also know, over the past few weeks, we have lost three Douglas County School District students and one former student to suicide. First, I…

By Amy Shanahan Castle Pines Village resident Stacy Gaines is at it again! For the fifth year in a row, Gaines and her friends and fellow church members are putting together Easter baskets for homeless children throughout the metro Denver area. The goal this year is five hundred baskets that will be delivered to the…

BRE first graders Jayse and Braden film their video about the Washington Monument. Article and photo by Elean Gersack First graders at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) recently studied United States symbols. As part of the social studies standards for identifying and explaining the meaning of national symbols, the first grade team worked together to…

Castle Pines residents Chris and Jaclynn Peterson took extensive fire mitigation measures to remove dead and diseased trees from their 200-acre property. With the help of outside agencies, the Petersons were able to mitigate nearly all their property and have half of their expenses paid for. By Elizabeth Wood West; photos courtesy of Chris and…

Betty Cahill, author of The Denver Post’s “Punch List” Information provided by the CPV Garden Club Springtime garden “to-do” chores can be long and overwhelming. For relief, join The Castle Pines Village Garden Club as they host Betty Cahill, author of The Denver Post’s “Punch List” on Friday, March 7 at 10 a.m. Cahill will…

Eliza Anderson is a successful hair stylist in Lone Tree who leads a very happy life thanks, in part, to her ability to hear. “Sometimes it is hard trying to keep up with conversations in a restaurant or some place that has a lot of background noise, but my Cochlear implants are awesome and let…

Tricia Anthone, owner By Terri Wiebold; photo courtesy of Tricia Anthone In 1989, the Berlin Wall fell, Chinese students rallied and died for Democracy in Tiananmen Square, and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” played incessantly on radios across America. In February of that same year, entrepreneur Tricia Anthone entered the Castle Pines community and began connecting…

Artist Mollie Uhl Eaton on opening night at the Tesoro Artisan Gallery. Article by Lynne Marsala Basche; photos courtesy of Mollie Uhl Eaton Mollie Uhl Eaton is as vibrant as the paintings she creates. Through the end of March, Mollie’s abstract works can be seen at the Tesoro Artisan Gallery in Denver, which features local…

After years of traveling far and wide to visit TJ’s, writer Lisa Crockett will finally be able to shop close to home and enjoy her favorite products, as well as new ones. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett I first visited Trader Joe’s (TJ’s) many years ago on a visit to my parents, who live…

City of Castle Pines HOA2 resident and RCHS senior Andrew Nicklanovich advances to first base after a skillfully-executed bunt last season. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Julie Lamb Baseball season means spring is here and the Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) baseball team has been working hard for months preparing for the start of…

By Amy Shanahan; courtesy photos Attaining the rank of eagle scout in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is an honor that only a small percentage of scouts receive. However, the Castle Pines community is home to a large number of these young men who have shown the commitment and leadership necessary to achieve the…

Dalton John Lambrecht By Amy Shanahan; photos courtesy of the Lambrecht family and friends Dalton John Lambrecht loved the color purple, air soft, riding four-wheelers, hunting, and a large variety of music. He loved his family and friends, good hugs, and making others feel welcome, loved and important. Dalton embodied all of these things, and…

Castle Pines resident Gregg Brueck is the dedicated athletic trainer for Real Colorado from Children’s Hospital Colorado. Article and photos by Elean Gersack Spring soccer will soon kick into high gear, so it is the perfect time to introduce Castle Pines resident Gregg Brueck to our readers. Brueck is the full-time athletic trainer for Real…

Pine Canyon development, formerly the Woodhouse-Scott Ranch, is a 535-acre mixed-use development that may be annexed later this year by the Town of Castle Rock. By Elizabeth Wood West; site plan courtesy of The Town of Castle Rock Pine Canyon, an expansive 535-acre planned development owned by the JRW Family Limited Partnership (Owner), is being…

By Elizabeth Wood West; photo courtesy of Randy Freeland More than two hundred guests attended an elegant all-inclusive fine dining and wine sampling fundraising event to benefit the Women’s Crisis and Family Outreach Center (WCFOC) in February. The “Valentine’s Ball” event was sponsored by Bubbles Liquor World and was held at Cielo at Castle Pines.…

Five Rock Canyon High School senior girls were honored at the Ninth Annual Women in Sports Luncheon. (From left to right) Phoebe Schneider – Cross Country/Track: undecided; Victoria Vanderpoel – Swimming: Pomona College, CA; Jill Finnerty – Soccer: Texas Christian University, TX; Lexy Thorderson – Basketball: San Diego State University, CA; and Kaycie Young –…

Kambree, Kate and Svea work on their poster for “people who buy” in the initial stages of Mrs. Kennedy’s consumer unit. Article and photo by Elean Gersack In January, third graders in Mrs. Kennedy’s class at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) dove headfirst into economics with a consumer awareness unit. As a Colorado state standard, third…

RHMS students Shayna Smith and Emily Wilson competed in a nationwide archery tournament and tied for first place!. According to Smith, the key to being successful at archery is “being calm, focused, having a good attitude, having fun, and enjoying what you are doing!” By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Dorothea Morrow-Smith In only its…

A memorable and meaningful Christmas season was enjoyed by this Castle Pines Village bunco group. Back row: Millie Brister, Lin Giampietro, Angela Williams, Marylou Giampietro, Diane Stavaski. Front row: Nan Wesselink, Susan McCauley, Lisa Bartmann, Allison Wiener, and Angel Resatar. Not pictured: Nancy Hardardt, Alyda Macaluso, and Stacy Gaines. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan…

By Elizabeth Wood West The Town of Castle Rock (Town) approved its financial agreement with Alberta Development (Alberta) and the related metropolitan district for Alberta’s proposed “Promenade at Castle Rock” development project (Promenade). Promenade is a new 200-acre commercial/residential development that may include up to 900,000 square feet of commercial space and approximately 350 multi-family…

Castle Pines residents who joined the new fitness group are, from left, Rose Adamo, Christy Lott, Jillann Turnwall, Tara Broyd, Tracey Hopkins, and Abeer Miller. By Steve Baska; photo courtesy of Marcio Stewart Castle Pines resident Marcio Stewart says a story in the January issue of The Castle Pines Connection about a new program he…

Students in Shawndra Fordham’s Bio Technology class typed questions into a chat queue while Dr. Shawn Burgess, a genome researcher in Maryland, explained his research work on zebrafish and regenerative hearing. Article and photos by Lisa Nicklanovich If your hearing is starting to deteriorate, whether due to age or loud music, listen up; you may…

By Elizabeth Wood West Get ready to caucus – election year 2014 is here. There are many local, state, and national candidate races, campaign events, and assemblies this year for Douglas County voters to participate in. According to the Douglas County Clerk and Recorder’s election office, there are a total of 218,155 registered voters as…

Castle Pines residents Taylor Robinson, Grayson Kamel, Sarah Parker and Ally Fritsch performed in “Willy Wonka” this winter. “Playing an Oompa Loompa in ‘Willy Wonka’ was my favorite part so far because of all the fun dance numbers and the amount of stage time,” remarked Fritsch. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Nancy Fritsch Youth…

Dragonfly Celebrations, a new party-planning business owned by Castle Pines resident Page Warnke, plans celebrations for adults and children alike, like this “pretty and pink” party for a child’s birthday. By Lisa Crockett; photos courtesy of Dragonfly Celebrations Everyone loves a party, but Castle Pines resident Page Warnke loves everything leading up to a party,…

Ginger Whellock is pictured here in front of several of her gorgeous paintings. Whellock paints every day and constantly strives to improve her work. A plaque above her desk in her studio provides inspiration with a quote from Winston Churchill. “The way to achieve happiness is to try for perfection that is impossible to achieve,…

Timber Trail Elementary fifth graders present proposals to reduce waste and conserve energy at the school. Students earned a $2,000 grand from Douglas County School District to help them implement some of their plans. By Lisa Crockett; photo courtesy of Timber Trail Elementary As part of its Project Based Learning (PBL) approach, educators at Timber…

Douglas/Elbert Task Force volunteer Diana Stigleman stocks shelves in the “Birthday Room.” The Task Force provides new toys to children in need who are celebrating a birthday. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett For a family struggling to make ends meet, a little food in the pantry and enough money to pay the utility bill…

The Douglas County Conservation District is now accepting orders for seedling shrubs and trees, available at a nominal cost on a first-come, first-served basis. By Elizabeth Wood West; photos provided by Pam Brewster/Douglas County Conservation District If your green thumbs are itching to get outside this spring and start digging in the dirt, take heart.…

By Elean Gersack It’s February and that means it is National Heart Month. We should be good to our hearts throughout the year, but this month marks a time to give it some extra love and make a commitment to improve heart health. Taking simple steps can help care for your heart. Eat Right –…

Dream Team members Aidan, Riley and Dylan hold the heart shaped suckers that will be on sale February 3 – 7 and delivered on Thursday, February 13. By Avarie P., BRE Ridgeline Staff Reporter Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) is doing something special to spread the love on Valentine’s Day. BRE’s Dream Team is selling heart…

Third grader Marissa Lopez teaches her mom, Liah, how to animate a bouncing ball. Students in a special after-school enrichment class at Timber Trail learned animation techniques that taught computer and problem-solving skills. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett A bouncing ball. It seems like a fairly simple image. Just a single sphere, bouncing a…

By Cindy Kessinger The 1937 musical “Babes in Arms” featured a beautiful valentine song that has been a Valentine’s Day favorite and sung by many greats, including Frank Sinatra. But the lyrics to “My Funny Valentine” are not your typical I love you lyrics. “Your looks are laughable, un-photographable, yet you’re my favorite work of…

By Lisa Nicklanovich Did you make a New Year’s resolution to exercise more, eat better, get organized, or save money?  With these helpful apps on your phone, you might just be able to count yourself in the small percentage of people who actually stick to their resolutions. All apps listed are free and are compatible…

Article and photos by Lisa Crockett A new eatery in town brings a local favorite to the neighborhood. Golden Flame Hot Wings in the Village Square shopping center is the third location in the chain that gained popularity in Aurora. A large selection of wings and famous locally-produced sauces which range in intensity from mild…

Voodoo Doughnuts held its grand opening in Denver in January. The company chose Denver to open its first store outside of Oregon and doughnut lovers are delighted with the funky voodoo magic inside the bright pink building. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan Anyone who has lived or spent any time in Oregon or Washington…