Read the stories from the latest issue:
A Taste of Carmines Pizza & Pasta Article and photos by Lisa Crockett Carmines Pizza and Pasta in Lone Tree is a piece of New York City right here in Douglas County, and that’s just what owner Danny Pisarra had in mind. A dyed-in-the-wool New Yorker who trekked out west with a young family 22…
Information provided by the Castle Pines Village Garden Club The Castle Pines Village Garden Club (CPVGC) is a non-profit organization and open to the general public. Members from all over the state, including Fort Collins, Lafayette, and Highlands Ranch attend the meetings and enjoy the field trips. Programs are open to all members and guests.…
Wellspring Community founder Mary Lou Fenton visits with a guest at “An Evening of Inspiration,” the non-profit’s annual fundraiser at Cielo at Castle Pines. Article and photos by Elizabeth Wood West “No one is more amazed than I am at the incredible growth Wellspring Community has experienced in such a short time,” exclaimed Wellspring’s founder…
By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Jack Klobetanz Where do you choose to settle down and raise a family after you have weathered sand storms in Mongolia, trekked through Bolivia at 18,000 feet, and swam in Cleopatra’s bath in Turkey? Castle Pines of course. Jack Klobetanz, his wife Kelley, and their 18-month-old son Maddox moved…
Local resident Dan Hachmeister created Gioli Vodka, which he calls “an awesome product at an excellent price.” The spirit competed against 1,400 brands in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and took the gold medal for quality, craftsmanship and price. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Dan Hachmeister Simplicity and elegance are the hallmarks of…
The annual tw telecom Charity Invitational Golf Tournament benefiting SungateKids was a huge success, as donations continued to come in throughout the day. Diana Goldberg, executive director of SungateKids (left) was thrilled to receive a check for what eventually amounted to $420,000 from tw telecom Chairman, CEO and President Larissa Herda (right). Article and photo…
By Elizabeth Wood West The City of Lone Tree and RidgeGate Development invite the public to attend the annual Schweiger Ranch Fall Festival on Sunday, October 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Schweiger Ranch is located within the RidgeGate development at 10822 Valley Hwy., just south of Lincoln Avenue, on the east side of…
Metro District Manager Jim Nikkel Information provided by CPNMD The Castle Pines North Metropolitan District (CPNMD) has hired Jim Nikkel as its new full-time, in-house district manager. Nikkel served 14 years as a district engineer, and more recently as assistant district manager for the Parker Water and Sanitation District. He spearheaded the design and construction…
It’s almost time to hit the slopes, so get your passes now! By Elean Gersack; photo courtesy of Colorado Ski Country USA In just a few short weeks, the hills will be covered in fresh snow and it will be time to hit the slopes! Make plans now to get pass ready so you can…
President of the Castle Pines Rotary Club Elaine Love (left) made her sassy modeling debut at the tenth annual Sassy Soiree on September 13. A crowd favorite, Bella DiVita (center) came back for her tenth consecutive year and was greeted by a dozen red roses from men in the audience. Nicole Moses (right), owner of…
Magnified view of an adult Mountain Pine Beetle – actual size of an adult is around the size of a grain of rice. “Pitch tubes” – the telltale sign of beetles, usually on the lower 25’of a tree trunk. by Joe Gschwendtner with photos provided by the Colorado State Forest Service Castle Pines residents enjoy…
Young Life took to the water as the group stopped for some whitewater rafting on the way to summer camp last July. By Kathy Dunker; courtesy photos Young Life is celebrating 20 years in western Douglas County with its annual fundraising concert and silent auction this month. YoungLife anticipates raising more than $50,000 to support…
GoGi Cellars owner Kurt Russell showcased two pinot noirs and a chardonnay called “Goldie” during the first “Meet the Winemaker” event held by Village Wines at Castle Pines. Owners Brad (left) and Braden (right) Dodds were encouraged by the feedback they received from the attendees, and plan to host similar events each month. By Amy…
The volunteer team for Timber Trail Elementary’s Mother-Son Kickball Tournament takes a minute to clown around with a special guest from one of the event’s sponsors, Chick fil-A. Brothers Callum (left) and Liam (right) Cook take a time out just before their first game of the tournament. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett For the…
The Skyline Soccer International u13 team. Neil Alvarado (left) with teen soccer players (from left to right) Gavin, Netra, Prakrash, Bhola, Anit, Buddy, and Sudir. Except for Buddy, who is from Burma, all the other players are from Nepal. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of Neil Alvarado Neil Alvarado’s El Salvadorian roots, upbringing in Los…
The RCHS Jaguars rallied together at the half as they were down to the HRHS Falcons 14 to 3. By Kathy Dunker; photo courtesy of RCHS The RCHS Jaguars rallied together at the half as they were down to the HRHS Falcons 14 to 3. It was a warm Friday night at Shea Stadium on…
Make quick work of the evening meal with a slow cooker Article and photo by Lisa Crockett The days are shorter and cooler temperatures are here. Leaves are falling off the trees and pumpkins and scarecrows dot the neighborhoods of Castle Pines, an announcement of the coming of fall. Something about this time of year…
Parents of athletes at RCHS attended the Positive Coaching Alliance workshop entitled “the second-goal parent” presented by Amy Manson, a former elite runner. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of PCA Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) kicked off the school year for athletes and their parents with a Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) workshop on August 20.…
Information and photo provided by American Academy First grader Cal Stotler, resident of Winter Berry, will help choose and name the winning flavor for the AA STEM project this month, partnering with the Bundt Shoppe in Castle Pines. When you hear the term “chemical engineering” you may think of test tubes, bubbly liquids in neon…
The East/West Regional Trail is approximately 20 miles long and will eventually connect Highlands Ranch to Lone Tree and Parker. Above: red designates the East/West Regional Trail and blue designates connecting trails. By Elizabeth Wood West; photo and map courtesy of Douglas County On September 14, Douglas County Parks, Trails, and Building Grounds (DC Parks)…
Several members of the Castle Pines Village 6.5 mixed doubles tennis team stand proud and a little exhausted, while holding a United States Tennis Association (USTA) Championship banner after taking state on September 15. By Elean Gersack; photo courtesy of Anthea Gerberg One of the Castle Pines Village (CPV) tennis teams has a big reason…
The powwow is held at Tall Bull Memorial Park, just off of Daniels Gate Road. The traditional attire and dancing are amazing! Two Lakota Sioux, also Vietnam War veterans, competed in the intertribal dance competitions at the powwow. Native Americans from many local and state-wide tribes were at the powwow. Article and photos by Liz…
The fifth grade teacher team at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School collaborates to build lesson plans rich with rigor and relevancy to promote 21st century learners. Article and photo by Elean Gersack Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) has always prided itself on its talented and dedicated teacher base and warm and caring atmosphere. However, a new…
By Elizabeth Wood West If you are looking for lots of Halloween fun for all ages this year, visit Castle Pines and Castle Rock and enjoy these different Halloween events. The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce invites kids to stop by the Castle Pines business district for Trick or Treat Street on Wednesday, October 30,…
By Lisa Crockett; photos by Tim Gamble, Cindy Cranstone, Lisa Crockett and courtesy of Jon Radloff Any Octoberfest celebration should include good food, beer, and a festive atmosphere. This year’s celebration in Castle Pines offered all those things in abundance. Neighbors gathered to enjoy the sunshine and each other’s company, but to add to the…
By Lisa Crockett Laura Olson of Douglas County Libraries hosted a special “sensory-enhanced story time” at Timber Trail Elementary School last month. “This story time is for all ages, but is geared for kids on the Autism spectrum and for differently-abled kids,” said Olson.
BRE Fall Book Fair is October 5-10 It’s going to be a reading oasis come October at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE). The school will host its annual Scholastic Fall Book Fair from October 5 through October 10. The community is invited to stop by and browse the extensive collection of books and gifts for…
A little – no make that a lot of rain didn’t stop the action as the DCSM fun run moved indoors this year to raise funds for the school. By Kathy Dunker; photos courtesy of DCSM Friday, September 13 was not unlucky for the DCS Montessori Charter School (DCSM) as it held its 3rd annual…
Chairperson Paige Taylor congratulates then-kindergartener Grant with a hug and a medal as he finished the race in 2011! Article and photo by Elean Gersack Buffalo Ridge Rock Slide is October 5 Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) will host its annual Rock Slide Fun Run on Saturday, October 5, at 9 a.m. The race will…
Information provided by RTD The citizen’s group responsible for advising the Regional Transportation District (RTD) on its FasTracks program is seeking new committee members who are interested in public transit issues. Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) is looking for individuals interested in serving on this all-volunteer panel. Applicants will be considered for positions expiring in December…
A new approach to learning and teaching is under way at RHMS, whereby students are being taught through collaborative, project-based methods. Currently, the eighth grade students are working on a Denver tourism challenge in which groups of students are tasked with putting together a multimedia presentation based on bringing tourism to Denver. Article and photo…
Congressman Cory Gardner spoke to Castle Pines Chamber members and local business leaders at the Rockyard American Grill and Brewing Company in Castle Rock. By Steve Baska; photo courtesy of Carla Kenny U.S. Representative Cory Gardner spoke to Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce members and local business leaders about tax reform and other issues at…
Players on the Castle Pines Athletics kindergarten team Blue Sharks focus on the game at Daniels Gate Park. By Liz Jurkowski Once again, Saturdays are filled with the sound of cheering parents and kicking balls at every park and playground in Castle Pines. Soccer season is in full swing now, with young athletes in the…
Volunteers in 19th century costumes are preparing to make ketchup on the 1860s farm. The barn and old windmill is next to the Blacksmith’s shop at the Littleton Museum. Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski Who knew that an outstanding living history museum exists less than a half hour from the City of Castle Pines?…
Information provided by CRCGT The Castle Rock Community Green Team (CRCGT) needs volunteers to work one, two-hour shift per month at the Castle Rock reclying center. The Community Recycling Center, located at 701 Prairie Hawk Drive, is open to the public every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., year round. Contact volunteer coordinator Peggy…
The lovely Sanctuary Golf Course was the setting for the ninth annual Fall Classic Charity Golf Tournament in support of Regis Jesuit. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan The ninth annual Regis Jesuit (RJ) Fall Classic Golf Tournament was held on September 11 at the beautiful Sanctuary Golf Course in Castle Pines. The rainy day…
The middle school building at DCS Montessori is under construction and is expected to be finished after the winter break. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Seventh and eighth graders at the DCS Montessori (DCSM) in Castle Pines should have a new place to call home by the first of the year, according to Mike…
Master gardeners of Castle Pines contest judges (left to righ): Harriette Einolf, 11-year Forest Park resident, 7-year master gardener; Ellie Landry, 15-year Royal Hill resident, 6-year master gardener; Cathy Robinson, 15-year Glen Oaks resident, 3-year master gardener; Margaret Hayward, 1-year Hidden Pointe resident, 10-year master gardener; Carol Grant, 17-year Retreat resident, 2-year master gardener; and…
Carriage rides, pumpkin patch picking, and much more at the Colorado Agriculture Leadership Foundation’s (CALF) annual Harvest Day. By Elizabeth Wood West; photos courtesy of CALF The Colorado Agriculture Leadership Foundation (CALF) invites the public to celebrate fall ranching and farming traditions at its annual Harvest Day. This popular family event will be held on…
By Liz Jurkowski To date this year, there have been more than 1,400 calls to Douglas County’s Department of Human Services about children who may be abused or neglected. It seems shocking to imagine that stuff like that even happens here in our neighborhoods, but the truth is it happens everywhere. However, there is hope…
Don Van Wormer, City Manager City of Castle Pines Information and photo provided by the City of Castle Pines After several months of operating without a city manager, the Castle Pines City Council selected Don Van Wormer to fill the vacancy. In the role as city manager, Van Wormer will be responsible for the general…
Co-owner and winemaker Braden Dodds sources all of his grapes from Cortez and Palisades, Colorado. His expertise and years of experience have led the winery to receive numerous accolades and awards. Article by Amy Shanahan; photos courtesy of Jimmy Dozer Locally-owned winery Ruby Trust Cellars held its Open House and Release Party on August 10…
Castle Rock Mayor Paul Donohue (second from right) congratulates members of the DC Dolphins board and staff on the grand opening of their new facility “The Tank” in Castle Rock. The DC Dolphins run youth sports programs in the area. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett The DC Dolphins, a Castle Rock-based youth sports league…
Aguilar Public Relations has been selected to to provide public relations and communications services for the city. Pictured above left to right: Karen Magner, Timi Aguilar, Tracy Elliott, and Michael Price. (Photo courtesy of Joell Iliff). Information provided by the City of Castle Pines In August, the City of Castle Pines began working with Aguilar…
Pictured left: AJ and Alex LaMotte cuddle with their OutPaws adopted dog Coolio who lives up to his name as a way-cool pooch! Pictured right: Although appearance varies, potcake dogs generally have smooth coats, cocked ears, and long faces. Most have an “island attitude” of being laid back and lovin’ to chill with the family.…
By Elizabeth Wood West Thanks to Rotary Clubs of Douglas County (including Castle Pines, Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Parker, and Cherry Creek Valley) and Castle Rock Adventist Health Campus (CRAHC), area residents will have the opportunity to attend the first Family 9Health Fair in Douglas County. The Family 9Health Fair is for both adults and…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Cars have been a lifelong passion for Castle Pines resident Bob Rausch. He’s spent his professional career selling cars and recently became the general manager at Mercedes-Benz of Littleton. “The car business really is a people business,” said Rausch. “I love to get to know customers and develop relationships…
Team USA golfer Paula Creamer gears up for match play at the Solheim Cup, which was held last month at the Colorado Golf Club in Parker. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Although sunny skies and supportive crowds weren’t enough for Team USA to recapture the Solheim Cup in August – which they lost to…
The outlet mall was built in 1992 and has become one of Colorado’s top tourist destinations. It continues to expand and add new retailers, benefiting consumers. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of the Outlets at Castle Rock If you haven’t been to the Outlets at Castle Rock in a while, it’s time to take another…
Sam Bishop, director of community development in Castle Pines, presents a resolution to adopt a vision statement to the City Council in August. The resolution – which was approved by the Council – will help guide future development and growth in Castle Pines. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett “When you dream of Colorado, wake…
By Patte Smith Dig out that old dusty bike or shine up your awesome state-of-the-art bicycle, gather the family together, and join in the fun at the 3rd annual WackyW bike ride on Sunday, September 8. This one-day cycling event held at Rocky Heights Middle School is not only a fun fitness ride, but it…
By Kathy Dunker It’s that time of year again for the annual DCS Montessori (DCSM) parents, teachers, staff, and students to gear up for the Fun Run on Friday, September 13. The school’s goal this year is to raise $50,000. A target amount of $100 per student in pledges has been set to help them…
Castle Pines was well-represented among the patrons who showed up for the Cabela’s grand opening celebration in Lone Tree. Above left to right: AJ Cocetti, Evan Kellogg, Justin Galbraith, Chris Dixon, Nick Merrill, and Dale McMillan. Article and photo by Terri Wiebold The grand opening of the new 110,000 square-foot Cabela’s store in Lone Tree…
Eighteen crew members of the minesweeper USS Quail, after being ordered on May 6, 1942 to scuttle their ship to prevent her from capture, journeyed in this 36-foot Navy motor launch from the island of Corregidor, Philippines more than 2,000 miles to safety in Australia. By Joe Gschwendtner; photos courtesy of Tim Deal Tim Deal…
By Elean Gersack Enjoy fall golf at its best while connecting with community members and business owners and supporting a great cause. The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce will host its second annual golf tournament on Tuesday, October 1 at The Ridge at Castle Pines North. The tournament will benefit The Wellspring Community. The shotgun…
Bryan Warnecke, nicknamed “Pink Lightning” by his ice hockey coach, crosses the finish line! By Elean Gersack; courtesy photos July 20 through 22 marked a special weekend for several Castle Pines residents. Together with hundreds of other cyclists, they took to the hills in support of pint-sized patients at Children’s Hospital Colorado (Children’s Colorado). The…
The 12U Armour baseball team won back-to-back state championships on August 1 in Cooperstown, New York. Pictured left to right, back row: Geno Macias, Coach John Cornelio, Lance Opp (CP), Coach Mike Bard, Riley Cornelio, Justin Olson, Ethan Frasier, Jett Hoggatt, Head Coach Gene Macias, Coach Tim Estes. Front row: Hank Bard, Evan Mason, Jake…
Nancy Hardardt and her husband Steve found both “lost shakers of salt.” Hardardt remarked, “We enjoyed a wonderful evening with good friends, great food and music at the country club’s margaritaville party!” By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of The Country Club at Castle Pines A sold-out crowd attended the much-touted “party of the year” at…
Kids from Castle Pines Real Colorado team the Lightning Cheetahs won the U7 2013 Super Kick It 3v3 Soccer Regional Tournament in Vail in July. Pictured above left to right: Jayse Rand, Ethan Cheung, Zachary Lorenzo, Becker McClure, Damiano Venturi, and Cameron Buie.Lightning Photo courtesy of Jane Taylor
Darick D’Ercole, owner of Tactical Supply Bravo in Centennial, with an M1A 308 sniper rifle. The rifle was manufactured in the early 1960s and has been upgraded by D’Ercole with modern parts. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Castle Pines resident Darick D’Ercole recently opened Tactical Supply Bravo in Centennial. It’s a one-stop gun shop…
The Highlands Ranch Composite Mountain Bike Team meets every Tuesday and Thursday at 5:30 p.m. in the Mountain Vista High School parking lot. The team is open to all high school students who have an interest in developing their athletic skills while enjoying outdoor recreation in a team environment. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of…
A new taste of the old west at Castle Cafe Location: 403 Wilcox Street, Castle Rock Hours: Open for lunch and dinner; hours vary, visit website for details Price: Most entrees are available for between $8 and $15 Travel Time from Castle Pines: About 10 minutes Other Details: Take some time to look at the…
Volunteers collect items to distribute to James Resource Network clients. By Lynne Marsala Basche; photos courtesy of James Resource Network It could be the dad sitting on the park bench, watching his children play. Maybe it is the mom living in the beautiful house you admire when you pick your child up from a play…
By Lisa Crockett More than a year after announcing new stores in Boulder and Denver, California-based Trader Joe’s has announced a third location in Greenwood Village. The new location will give Castle Pines residents easy access to the specialty grocer, known for unique snacks, organic food, and the ever-popular “Two Buck Chuck,” Charles Shaw wine.…
Commemorative holiday ornaments are being sold as a fundraiser for the Castle Pines Arts and Cultural Foundation. Ornaments are now on sale at the Castle Pines Library, The Ridge at Castle Pines North Golf Course, The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce, and Castle Pines Walgreens. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Christmas is still months…
Custom needlepoint finishing – like this pillow featuring a needlepoint canvas — is at the heart of Karen Barton’s home-based business, The Pine Needle Shop. In early September, The Colorado Needlepoint Roadshow – an event Barton is co-hosting – will bring needlepoint vendors and teachers to Castle Pines. By Lisa Crockett; photo courtesy of Karen…
By Patte Smith Time to break out of day in, day out of “eat breakfast, get lunch and cook dinner.” Sounds monotonous and it is. Well on September 8 say “no more!” and give your palate a real treat. The American Culinary Federation Colorado Chefs Association (ACFCCA) and Douglas County School District (DCSD) Nutrition Services…
Article and photos by Amy Shanahan The fifth annual Hot Rods in the Village Car Show took place on a beautiful, hot sunny day in The Village at Castle Pines. With more than fifty participants, attendees enjoyed viewing everything from vintage coupes and sedans to classic trucks, muscle cars, and hot rods. The event was…
Families arrived early with blankets and chairs, ready for an evening of fun for the Master Association’s Movie in the Park event. The movie started just as the last rays of sun disappeared. Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski There was a great turnout in August for the movie in the park event hosted by…