Read the stories from the latest issue:
By Michelle Post Allow me to take you back into your memories, and I want you to think of the most beautiful place you have been. As you find your image, I want you to close your eyes and listen to the sounds, smell the aromas in the air, and feel the emotions as you…
By Elean Gersack It is time to roll up your sleeves and get checked at the 9Health Fair. For 36 years, this volunteer driven nonprofit has impacted more than two million lives with blood chemistry and other health screening programs. It is easy and convenient to take charge of your health by making plans to…
Kian Lame’s smile is as large as his zest for life as he visits his sister Yasmine at her college campus. Kian’s family is hoping to raise money to purchase an adaptive bike so that he can enjoy the feeling of independence and joy that all kids deserve. By Nancy Koontz; photos courtesy of Neda…
Castle Crocs have a lot of long-time returning swimmers, including these boys pictured last year (from left to right): Jack Nelson, Ryan Tierney, Ben Gardner, Caleb Jaramillo and Carter Brand. by Kathy Fallert; courtesy photos CASTLE CROCS Castle Crocs (Crocs) are gearing up for their 11th season. The overall mission for the Castle Crocs is…
In early May, residents will receive their Notice of Value for 2017, which will reflect the market value of a residence as of June 30, 2016. This year, while home values have increased, residents will not notice an equivalent change in their property taxes due next year. By Lynne Marsala Basche In early May, Douglas…
Revealing history and keeping it alive By Lynne Marsala Basche Imagine triggering the 1858 Colorado Gold Rush by finding gold flecks in Cherry Creek and the Platte River. Think about trekking up to the Devil’s Head summit in the late 1800s to what would become one of only four fire lookout stations along the Front…
The following test questions were sent in by one of our readers who claimed the hypothetical student got a zero on the test and should have received 100% – based on creativity alone! Each answer is absolutely correct, and funny too. The teacher clearly had no sense of humor. Questions: 1. In which battle did…
Location of proposed new development in Castle Rock to be built on previous landfill site. Submitted by the Town of Castle Rock A new development is proposed near the intersection of I-25 and Plum Creek Parkway. In March, Town Council postponed consideration on second reading of a finance agreement with the proposed developer, which would…
By Lynn Zahorik; photo courtesy of the Aston Martin Owners Club The mountain area Aston Martin Owners Club (AMOC) paid a visit to Castle Pines a few months ago. Looking for a unique restaurant where members could meet halfway between Denver and Colorado Springs, they were attracted by the Italian menu at Pino’s (formerly La…
The loss of life while serving one’s country, either in a military capacity or as a first responder, is something worthy of paying tribute. Throughout Douglas County, uniformed personnel are proud to participate in rendering honors at various locations as dignified honors motorcades pass through, taking these heroes to their final resting place. Article and…
By Amanda Merriman On a recent Monday afternoon, I scoured through the pantry for something that would inspire that night’s dinner recipe. Feeling frustrated, I decided it was time once again to get better organized with my meal planning. I found my solution in a free app called Mealime. I have used other recipe apps…
By Tim Gamble; photos by Lynne Zahorik Each year the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce and the community celebrate by saying hello to old friends and by welcoming new ones. We raise a glass or two to recognize and honor achievements of our peers. We enjoy a nosh, buy stuff, and dance to the music. …
Mallory Happ, a Forest Park resident and student at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), shared the lessons she learned after her first semester in college. By Sarah Bermingham, RCHS intern writer; photo courtesy of Kelly Happ College is an exciting new experience for students to grow, but this change can also be surprising…
As part of Girl Scout Brownie Troop 844’s “It’s Your World, Change It” Quest Journey, the girls delivered supplies and toys to the Buddy Center. They are pictured here with leaders Amy Ball (left) and Kristie Peters (right). By Lynne Marsala Basche; photos courtesy of Amy Ball Thanks to Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) Girl Scout…
By Kathy Fallert; courtesy photos Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) parents reminisced their way Back to Prom at the school’s annual fundraising gala held on Friday, February 24 at Cielo at Castle Pines. There were 175 people in attendance, many dressed to the nines in tuxedos and gowns in all sorts of fun styles and colors.…
The Rock Canyon High School student council introduced Faith to the entire student body at the opening assembly of Wish Week. By Sarah Bermingham, RCHS intern writer; photos courtesy of Julia Bartmann Wish Week at Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) is an event everyone looks forward to. “Wish Week is the most magical time of…
By Kay Bryant Canyons Community Church Meets at 4825 N. Crowfoot Valley Road, Castle Rockwww.canyonscc.org Easter Sunday service: April 16 at 10:30 a.m. Chabad Jewish Center Meets at 9950 Lone Tree Parkway, Lone Treewww.denverjewishcenter.com Passover: Community Seder on April 10 at 7 p.m. Cherry Hills Community Church Meets at 3900 Grace Boulevard, Highlands Ranch www.chcc.org…
By Lisa Crockett Spring is in the air, and farmers in the area are planning for the growing season ahead. For consumers looking for a way to support local growers and shrink their carbon footprint, there are a few options. Food co-ops allow consumers to buy a membership and then order their choice of produce,…
Rita Coltrane By Patte Smith, photos provided by Rita Coltrane and Orchestrated Light Photography Talent pours out of Rita Coltrane, an award-winning interior designer and an original homeowner in the Hidden Pointe neighborhood. Recently winning a Best of Houzz 2017 award for a unique and distinctive design, she humbly says that it was “completely unexpected.”…
Article and photo by Terri Wiebold The Douglas County Community Foundation (DCCF) held its second annual breakfast, “Focus Forward” at the Charles Schwab campus in Lone Tree last month. The foundation is doing amazing things to help Douglas County nonprofits, and The Connection’s Managing Editor Lynne Marsala Basche (second from right) was honored to be…
Union Station has its fair share of history, as well as upscale restaurants and shopping to explore. Article and photos by Kathy Fallert Where can you go in Denver that offers Snooze restaurant, Acme Delicatessen, Stoic & Genuine restaurant, The Tattered Cover, Milkbox Ice Creamery, Next Door Eatery, Cooper Lounge, the luxurious Crawford Hotel, artsy…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett I like to cook, I like to eat, and I like to feed the people that I love. So, you might think that dinner at my house is a consistently blissful affair. Alas, real life has a pesky way of interfering with what should otherwise be a pleasant…
By Amanda Merriman Connection writer Amanda Merriman admits she is hopelessly addicted to books. It has been this way nearly all her life. Every month she shares what she has been reading with the hope that others will share in the obsession too. “People say if you face your worst fear the rest is easy,…
Eye Level Optical celebrated its grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony last month on Village Square Drive. By Kathy Fallert; photo courtesy of Paul Masovero Eye Level Optical is the new business in town. Located right next door to the Bundt Shoppe on Village Square Drive in Castle Pines, co-owners Eileen Barry and Angela Gosling…
Mead, pictured in the back row (center) with her yoga class that includes all ages. “Yoga creates freedom in the body and calm in the mind. I have yet to hear a student say at the end of class,‘Gee, I wish I hadn’t come to yoga today’!” she laughed. By Patte Smith, photo courtesy of…
By Patte Smith Thursday, April 6, networking at 8:45 a.m., meeting 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Presentation: Balance for Fall Prevention and Tai Chi for Arthritis, presented by Mary Thuente, who holds a master’s degree in physical therapy. Bonaventure Senior Living, located at 1855 Low Meadow Boulevard, Castle Rock. Thursday, May 4, networking at 8:45…
Article and photos by Terri Wiebold Last month, we shared with you insight into the creative team of writers who bring the pages of The Connection to life, but the true lifeblood of the paper is our team of account managers. The Connection is 100 percent funded through advertising dollars, and the relationships and partnerships…
By Amy Shanahan; photos courtesy of Beverly Coggins The father daughter dance at The Country Club at Castle Pines is an annual event that has become a tradition for many of the club’s members. This year, the event took place on March 4 and was attended by more than 85 dads and their daughters. Castle…
DCSM student Dylan Tilton with 2017 Iditarod musher Aliy Zirkle at the musher’s banquet. Tilton’s passion for “The Last Great Race” came out of the classroom and into reality with a March trip to the iconic Alaskan dog sled race. By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of DCS Montessori DCS Montessori (DCSM) student and Castle…
Information provided by the FAA Several public workshops will be held in April and May on the proposed airspace improvements in the Denver Metro area. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is holding the workshops in an open house format so people can attend any time during the publicized time range to learn about the proposed…
A fluffy four-legged airline traveler sniffs around one of the new indoor private pet restrooms. The Pet Relief areas are a welcome amenity where dogs can go on the fly before taking to the skies. Article and photo by Lynn Zahorik; photo courtesy of DIA Traveling with your trusted furry friends just got easier at…
Brigadier General John Chase, Jr. (left), whose family acquired more land in Douglas County than any other. Chase commanded troops under Governor Peabody. By Joe Gschwendtner; photo courtesy of Douglas County History Research Center As Douglas County development accelerated in the late 1800s, no family acquired more land through the Homestead Act in our area…
Matthew Reljanovic, Broady Bowers and Trevor Venable represent Chile at DCS Montessori’s fourth annual international tea. Presentations covered government, culture, population and climate, and, of course, tea. By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of DCS Montessori DCS Montessori students had the opportunity to participate in a festive tea celebration when teacher (and Castle Pines resident)…
Construction on the 1,300-space parking garage south of RidgeGate on Havana and the bridge to the end-of-line station for RTD’s Southeast Rail Line has been underway for several months. The Southeast Rail Line Extension is scheduled to open in 2019. Article and photo by Patte Smith; map provided by RTD Motorists who travel north on…
“We thought our smoke alarms were keeping us safe …” – PineRidge resident Barb Saenger By Kathy Fallert; photo courtesy of Barb Saenger There are few things in life more annoying than the chirping of a smoke alarm in your home, especially when it continues after the batteries have been replaced. PineRidge resident Barb Saenger…
By Michelle Post “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” ~ Abraham Lincoln I love the above quote, for it reminds me that preparing to complete a task is more important than doing the job itself. In part one of this series we…
RJ McLennan won the giant slalom at the CHSAA state ski championships in Steamboat Springs by more than a second in 12 degree weather on February 23. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of Tania Coffey and RJ McLennan RJ McLennan, a Castle Pines resident and senior at Rock Canyon High School (RCHS), won the giant…
Information provided by the City of Castle Pines To more accurately align with the communication efforts of Lennar Homes, information about the Lagae Ranch development on the City of Castle Pines website has been changed to Castle Pines Valley. The new development, currently under construction, will include 231 single-family homes, 400 multi-family residences, an elementary…
By Elean Gersack Join a host of Denver area running enthusiasts for the annual Cherry Creek Sneak in Cherry Creek North on Sunday, April 23 at 7:30 a.m. The Cherry Creek Sneak is the Denver must for families and elite runners alike. Runners and walkers participate in the10-mile, 5-mile, and 3.1-mile (5K) There’s even a…
The eight foundations of Sources of Strength. Submitted by RHMS student Isabel Kiefert Sources of Strength (SOS), a group at Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) has a mission “To provide the highest quality evidence-based prevention for suicide, violence, bullying and substance abuse by training, supporting, and empowering both peer leaders and caring adults to impact…
RCHS National Merit finalist Megan Pitman (third from right) pictured here with fellow RCHS finalists Sydney Marchando (second from right) and Kate Schaffer (far right). The students are dressed for Hawaiian day in honor of their Wish Week kid, Faith (see related article on page 35). By Lisa Nicklanovich; courtesy photo Nine students at Rock…
By Kathy Fallert with courtesy photos If you’re looking for an excellent steak in a somewhat casual environment, then LongHorn Steakhouse is a good place to check out. The food is reasonably priced, the atmosphere is a comfortable western ranch theme, and they know how to do steak. Founded in 1981 in Atlanta, Georgia, the…
In an effort to spread happiness and positivity, RHMS students Braden McCollam (left), Alivia Ball (center) and Raegan Synk (right) composed and sent weekly inspirational emails to teachers and staff to brighten their days. By RHMS student Zoe Bair; photo courtesy of Kayla Mash Every Friday, Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) students Braden McCollam, Alivia…
BRE students battle their way to branch championships By Kathy Fallert; courtesy photo The Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) third and fourth grade team battled their way to victory as the Lone Tree branch champions in this year’s Battle of the Books competition. The competition is similar to a game show format. The students all…
By Michelle Post I remember the moment clearly, as if it happened yesterday, but it was 15 years ago. I was sitting in professional development training with members of my team, and we were learning about the different generations in the workplace. As the instructor began to detail each generation and their characteristics, one of…
Actors in the RCHS production of “Peter Pan: The Musical,” rehearsed one of the final scenes in the show in preparation for opening night on March 1. Actors featured (from left to right): Alyssa Marino, Leah Doogan, Ben Watervoort, Molly Lane, Maddie Maynor, Lily Schmoker, Amanda Scholtz, Landon Hogue and Elysa Veta. By Riley Busch,…
With a team of 50 (although not everyone participated in the actual plunge), Team DCSO BrrrITE Blue Line was ready to take the Polar Plunge in the Aurora Reservoir on February 11. By Lynne Marsala Basche; courtesy photos On February 11, members of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) took a chilly dip in the…
Riley, a fifth grader at Timber Trail Elementary school, plays her violin during the closing ensemble performance of “Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin during the Save the Music student performance night on February 10 at the Castle Pines Community Center. Article and photos by Elean Gersack On Friday, February 10, musical talent was abound at the…
Submitted by Douglas County Libraries The Douglas County Libraries Adventure Pass program is expanding in 2017 with the addition of Denver’s Clyfford Still Museum as a partner. Through the Adventure Pass program, library patrons can reserve free passes to six local cultural institutions, including Clyfford Still Museum, using their library cards. Douglas County Libraries’ 2017…
Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Most of the time when I cook, I am either following someone else’s recipe or riffing on something someone else thought of. Every once in a while, though, I come up with something that is my own, unique creation. Don’t get me wrong, I am not inventing molecular gastronomy…
By Patte Smith The Castle Pines Library is offering two sessions of Yours, Colorado: Over the Mountain & Through the Woods. Experienced hikers will host the session and share their knowledge of hiking and climbing a 14er. Now is your chance to scale one of these beautiful mountains, and brag to your friends that you…
Seven eighth-grade girls were selected to represent RHMS at the National Girls & Women in Sports luncheon. Pictured from left to right, Gabby Clutter, Audrey Burt, Carley Watterson, Eryn Collins, Karlie Wight, Olivia Gibson and Emily Glynn. By RHMS student Ryan Fincher; photo courtesy of Katie Cranston We have all heard about Rocky Heights Middle…
By Michelle Post Who said asking for help is a sign of weakness? Oh right! My dad. One of my dad’s “life lessons” he taught my siblings and me was asking for help was a sign of weakness. I remember coming to my dad seeking help on a school project, life issue or a work…
Article and photos by Kathy Fallert “I was told by the business lender that most small restaurants don’t survive past the first year,” chuckled Lisa Storey (a.k.a. Mama Lisa) of Mama Lisa’s Little Italy restaurant in Castle Pines, as she addressed the standing room-only crowd at her restaurant’s 15-year anniversary celebration on February 1. Complimentary…
By Lynne Marsala Basche; courtesy photos On February 11, Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) daddies and daughters traveled under the sea to attend the much-loved annual Daddy Daughter Dance. More than 1,600 balloons and decorations, including styrofoam jellyfish and coral reef lamp shades helped bring the “Under the Sea” theme to life. Guests could dance, snack…
Be ready to take in some breathtaking views of the Front Range and experience some exceptional bird watching when you visit Barr Lake State Park in Adams County. More than 350 species of birds have been spotted at Barr Lake, which is home to the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory headquarters. Barr Lake also hosts an…
Photo courtesy of Kristy Buirge Pixie and Emmie Buirge loved participating in the “Cutest Pet in the Pines” contest and being selected among its winners. “We got so many texts and emails from our friends and neighbors to congratulate them,” said their mom, Kristy. “Seeing our community’s adorable pets certainly made our holidays even…
By Amanda Merriman Dear Castle Pines community, I’d like you to meet Charity Miles. Charity Miles is an app that connects active people with worthwhile organizations making a difference in our world. So many of us already hit the trails as walkers, bikers and runners. Why not donate these miles to a cause you believe…
By Joe Gschwendtner; photos courtesy of “I’d do it again” by Sarah A. Gleason, Copyright 1982, Century One Press Sarah Gleason was an only child of Irish immigrants born in Colorado City. She taught school in Douglas, Weld and Jefferson Counties from 1926 to 1978 and was widely recognized as an extraordinary teacher. During…
Amelia Earhart’s 1923 Kissel “Gold Bug” on display at the Forney Museum of Transportation and (pictured below) an old photo of Denver firefighters rescuing residents from a downtown building that was on fire. By Patte Smith; courtesy photos The warm-up has not yet begun, and we are all getting a bit of cabin fever, but…
By Michelle Post Everyone has a story inside. That story could be the one that saves a life or inspires another to make social change or to become a global difference maker. That is what TED is. TED is a platform to share stories called TED Talks and to “spread ideas.” TED stands for technology,…
Parenting Ph.D. By Lynne Marsala Basche Raising a child is difficult. While challenges may change with the times, if you are a parent, grandparent or a caregiver to a preschool-aged child through high school-aged student, the need for education and guidance is always necessary. The Douglas County Parenting Coalition (DCPC) is waiting to support…
Yummy, simple frittata By Lisa Crockett Leftovers are not exactly the stuff of legend. What was fantastic last night for dinner, is often just sort of “meh” the next day for lunch. And more than one encore – that pan of lasagna that was so amazing? By day four, it’s enough to make you want…
By Terri Wiebold; photo by Paul Masovero The Connection received an inquiry about the large pile of dirt and equipment that is currently located on the northeast corner of N. Daniels Park Road and Santa Fe Drive (see inset). According to Castle Pines Metropolitan District Manager Jeff Coufal, the equipment and dirt are part of…
By Lynn Zahorik As the last few weeks of winter drift away, many people are starting to plan their summer calendars. Local swim families are gearing up to register for their summer swim teams. Castle Crocs, the recreational swim team program within the Castle Pines North community, opens up their online registration for returning…
Information provided by the DCPC One in three girls and one in five boys will face the potential of sexual abuse before they are old enough to vote. Very young children are at the highest risk. For parents of children up to 7 years old, the Douglas County Parenting Coalition (DCPC) is offering a My…
Student Timothy Merkle, a Castle Pines resident, trying out the AT&T driving simulator at Rock Canyon High School on February 2 which is designed to show the dangers of distracted driving. By Jack Hibbett, RCHS intern writer; photo courtesy of Suzanne Trantow A virtual reality simulator from AT&T recently came to Rock Canyon High School…
(Pictured from left to right) BRE students Olivia Bruns, Brooke Potter and Grace Bruns helped Dr. Claudia Folska whip up some egg salad on the “Cooking in the Dark” show. By Kathy Fallert; photo courtesy of Nancy Potter This winter three Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) students participated on the Rocky Mountain PBS show Cooking in…
On the first Wednesday in February every year, high school student athletes across the country sign letters of intent to play their sport at the next level. These students are committing to a sport while attending college in the fall. We commend all the student athletes and celebrate the following who reside in our 80108…
Celebration day! The Sanchez family poses in front of their new home with the Giveback Homes team. By Kay Bryant; photos courtesy of Jessica Northrop Seven-year Castle Pines resident Jessica Northrop is a wife, mother and professional real estate agent who was looking for a way to give back. She recently found it helping to…