Read the stories from the latest issue:
Every year, Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) produces a third grade show. The event requires months of preparation and practice and incorporates several educational subjects: art, music and physical education, with the respective teachers collectively taking on and overseeing the show start to finish. This year’s program focused on A HERD – BRE’s character development acronym:…
The Theatre III class at Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) offers students a dynamic and immersive experience. One of the annual traditions of the class, led by teacher Cindy Baker, is performing for children’s theater, a creative project that challenges students to act outside of their comfort zones and connect with audiences of all ages.…
Introducing Lexi Christine and Christine Amelia, the creative minds behind Whimsy Picnic Co., an event company headquartered in Castle Rock. Specializing in crafting cozy and visually stunning picnic experiences, they create enchanting setups with blankets, cushions and charming decor, both indoors and outdoors. Their focus is on fostering a magical atmosphere where guests can unwind,…
Celebrating a milestone, especially one as significant as 15 years of delivering “a little good news” to the community, is a great opportunity to look back at those who have been a part of the incredible adventure. Thank you to the tens of thousands of residents who have invited us into your homes…
On January 21, the United States Postal Service (USPS) raised postage prices almost completely across the board. Postage for a first-class Forever Stamp increased from .66 cents to .68 cents, the second increase in six months. International stamps as well as international postcard stamps increased from $1.50 to $1.55. Domestic postcard stamps were increased from…
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) began tolling fees on the I-25 South Gap Express Lanes in mid-January. “The Express Lanes, located on I-25 from Monument to Castle Rock, will be open 24/7 and tolls will range from .70 cents to $2 with an ExpressToll pass – among the lowest toll rates-per-mile in the nation,”…
Community compassion continues to make a difference in the lives of people who may have fallen on hard times in Douglas County. Thanks to donor generosity to DouglasHasHeart.org, as part of the countywide “Handouts Don’t Help” campaign, the Douglas County Community Foundation (DCCF) presented a $2,500 check to SECOR Cares during a Douglas County Homeless…
The Clarity Group (Clarity) on Village Square Drive is a different kind of therapy clinic. Owner Whitney Herrmann is committed to excellence in mental health therapy. She recruited a team of therapists who are the best in their field and who continue to improve and deepen their knowledge to benefit their clients. But what is…
Thursday, February 29, marks another leap year, 366 days versus 365 in 2024. For most, it is just an extra day in the shortest month that occurs every four years. But its history and evolution are worth revisiting. The science behind leap year: It takes 365.2422 days for the earth to circle the sun. The…
Nothing Bundt Cakes in Castle Rock recently celebrated its first birthday with a week-long celebration that ended with a chance to win free Bundlets for a year. Fans bundled up and braved the elements in January, as an arctic cold front moved into the area. The guests stood outside for more than an hour before…
Functional medicine is considered a relatively new approach in the medical field, establishing its presence in the early 1990s. It is a form of alternative medicine that addresses the root causes of health issues. Jaime McNitt combined her training in traditional Western medicine and the American healthcare system with her passion for providing comprehensive and…
Naomi Van Deman (10) is an incredible young lady. She is passionate about music and performing arts, active in choir, theater and learning the guitar. She likes cooking, riding her bike and horses, and spending time with her family and friends. Naomi is also a champion swimmer. Naomi was born with Achondroplasia (ACH), the most…
After living and working in Southern California for the past 13 years, Matt and Kristy Humphrey are back in their “home” state of Colorado and have settled in The Village at Castle Pines. “We are back where we belong; we met our neighbors, entertained, golfed, hiked, snowshoed and enjoyed the change of seasons,” said Matt.…
Christine Whaling not only has a good eye for spotting something worthy, she appreciates everything she sees. “I have always been passionate about art and collectibles ever since I can remember,” said Christine. Art is her calling. Christine achieved her bachelor’s degree in art history from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles and her master’s…
Girl Scout cookie season is back, and two neighborhood teens have big plans. Evie (12) and Abigail (15) Reynolds have each set a goal of selling 1,250 boxes. They plan to use money from cookie sales to earn their Silver Award and Gold Award, respectively, two of the highest awards in Girl Scouting. Evie, who…
Collin Romero is a 2019 graduate of Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) with a passion for aerospace and a love of football. Colorado School of Mines (Mines) was the perfect place to land for both. As one of the first students at American Academy (AA) – Castle Pines, Collin found fuel there for his love…
In the serene Pine Ridge neighborhood, there is a tale of love, adoption and joy with Ken and Marcella Raust and their cherished feline companions: Bob, Churro, Cocoa and Loki. Hailing from different states – Ken from California and Marcella from North Carolina – Ken moved to Colorado in 1986 and Marcella in 2000. The…
Winners of the Cutest Pet in the Pines contest stopped by The Pet Stuff Place to pick up their prizes. Honorable Mention Gracie and her family (above). Runner-up Bo (below).
Australian Cobberdogs are purebred Labradoodles, dogs that are known to be social and friendly to all. Cobberdog actually means “dog friend” in the Australian language. Claudio and Alis Ramos, with two daughters Bella and Tina, welcomed Boo into their home in 2021. “Alis always wanted a dog; it only took 19 years for me to…
Master Police Officer Seth Morrissey of the Castle Rock Police Department (CRPD) loves his job. As part of the Community Partnership Unit (CPU), Seth created a community outreach program that delights kids in Castle Rock. The Five-O trailer is his brainchild. Purchased entirely through community donations, Seth parks the Five-O and his patrol car at…
Douglas County nonprofit, It’s A Calling Foundation (IACF), was founded to provide mental health and wellness support for emergency responders, frontline medical workers, service members, veterans and the families who support them. This work requires strength, courage and bravery, but behind that grit, these heroes can experience emotional tolls leading to mental health struggles, suicidal…
The social media platform TikTok has been flooded with videos of young people biting into crunchy crystal candies of all different shapes and colors. The trend may be new to some, but crystal candies are inspired by Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions that go back thousands of years. Crystal candies look like jewels in color…
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (CMZ), situated in Colorado Springs, earned recognition as one of the top zoos in the United States. From its origins as philanthropist Spencer Penrose’s private collection, to its current status as a highlight of wildlife education, this place has captured the hearts of zoo enthusiasts nationwide. Voted the number four zoo in…
This crossword brought to you by Allstate Insurance – Tammy Lopez (720) 733-1331 Across 1. ____ the Wild by Krakauer 5. Baking meas. 8. Speck in the ocean 13. Stink to high heaven 14. French Sudan, today 15. Whinny 16. Abbr. at the end of a list 17. Iridescent gem 18. ___ orange 19.…
Judi Holst, a revered and inspiring teacher, recently concluded her 32-year teaching career, leaving behind a legacy of passion and innovation. Reflecting on her remarkable journey, Judi shared experiences and insights that defined her impactful career. Judi’s path into teaching began in the third grade when her teacher, Mrs. Julie Hey, became a source of…
Dear Mrs. A, Curious in King’s Crossing asks: What is an appropriate gift for an anniversary? I love that you asked! Anniversaries have a long tradition of appropriate gifts, and it is a wonderful guide to get cheeky with! I am attaching a list with both traditional and modern takes on the subject. Take a…
Worn down by dismal life opportunities available to them in Somerset, England, Elizabeth Ann Dowden and her husband James Perry packed up, leaving the Isles in 1848. With sons James Dowden (James D.) and George, and 9-year-old daughter Elizabeth in tow, the family took passage on a ship to the United States. No luxury liner,…
This month’s book recommendations are books with success on film. We all know popular book series that spawned movie phenomena, such as Harry Potter, James Bond and The Lord of the Rings. Authors like Stephen King and Michael Crichton have had multiple books turned into movies too. So, if you are looking to read the…
In December 2023, The Connection shared an inspiring story about resident Jeanne Furr turning 100 years old (https://www.castlepinesconnection.com/a-century-of-grace-and-joy-jeanne-turns-100/). With the help of some local businesses and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Independent Financial in Castle Pines threw Jeanne the birthday party of a lifetime. January 4 – Jeanne’s actual birthday – was a day of…
In a world increasingly dominated by technology, the realm of romance has also embraced the digital age. Online dating apps have become a popular avenue for people of all ages to connect, and this holds true for individuals aged 50 and older. Below are five popular online dating apps for this demographic and the…
Love is in the air this month. I know there are people who think Valentine’s Day is a “Hallmark holiday” designed to sell cards, but an occasion to let people know I love them has always seemed a good idea to me. And as usual, one of the first ways I think of expressing love…
This year marks 20 years since the start of Denver Restaurant Week (DRW). The Denver food scene has evolved impressively in that time. From March 1-10, foodies of all ages will celebrate the opportunity to try new culinary delights with abundant and affordable offerings. Diners will have both dine-in and to-go options priced at $25,…
Sarah Carlson has been baking cookies for the people she loves her entire life. As a young girl she spent hours in the kitchen alongside her mother, Marge, and grandmother Elga. What first began as a simple and small-drop family chocolate chip cookie recipe grew into a business to spread joy to all. One of…
There is a stigma and sometimes embarrassment surrounding the taboo subject of menopause, which leaves many women without guidance. According to the National Institute of Health, more than one million women a year in the United States experience menopause. The hormonal fluctuations that come with menopause affect mood, skin and energy levels often resulting in…
Overheard at the grocery store recently was a conversation between a mom and her teenage son. The son wanted a lemon/lime soda; mom convincingly and quickly pivoted from “All that sugar isn’t good for your body or your brain” to “Let’s get lime sparkling water and fresh lemons.” This is a great example of how…
Rock Canyon High School Principal Andy Abner has been named the 2024 Administrator of the Year by the Colorado Music Educators Association (CMEA). He was officially recognized at the CMEA Conference in late January. Information and photo provided by DCSD
Douglas County School District (DCSD) students continue to graduate at impressive rates. Data released by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) shows that on-time graduation for four-year students is 90.8%, which is 9.16% higher than other school districts in Colorado and a 9% increase from 2010 numbers in Douglas County. Recent DCSD graduates also accumulated…
Before winter break, a group of sixth graders led by teacher Heather Anderson at DCS Montessori Charter School (DCSM) read the “Being a Buddy” story in TIME for Kids magazine. The narrative showcased a girl’s journey to create a Buddy Bench for her school, inspiring young students to make a positive impact. The DCSM students…
Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) has a new book buddy program this school year as part of its goal for literacy promotion. General education (peer) students team up with significant special needs (SSN) students and read together with the theme: “Fall into a good book.” “We realized that everyone loves storybooks from a young age…
Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) athletics have a lot to be proud of these days. For the first time in school history, three Jaguar teams took 5A title championships in the 2023-2024 season. It was first-time wins for both boys cross country and golf and the sixth state championship for poms. The school honored the…
Food like the photos In the world of fast-casual food franchises, there is a new competitor to hit the Colorado market. Born from a passion for perfect chicken and a commitment to flavor innovation, Daddy’s Chicken Shack just opened in Littleton and is quickly becoming a go-to destination for those seeking a delicious twist on…
The strength of the human-canine bond is one for the ages. Dogs can instantly inspire a smile and provide hope and happiness. Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) is a national nonprofit that vets, tests, observes and provides support and insurance coverage to pet therapy teams (dogs and handlers) across the United States, Canada and Puerto…
The electric vehicle (EV) charging stations located at Douglas County Libraries – Castle Pines (DCL) have been removed from the parking area in front of the facility. Originally, these charging stations were purchased by the City of Castle Pines in an agreement to utilize parking spaces for all cars. Over their lifespan, the stations required…
from your Board of Douglas County Commissioners Earlier this year, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners (BOCC) – in its capacity as the County Board of Equalization (BOE) – approved $28 million in tax relief for Douglas County homeowners. The across-the-board reduction of 4% in residential property values would have provided an average of $223…
Groundbreaking for Tall Tales Ranch (TTR), an inclusive residential community supporting people with intellectual and development disabilities (I/DD), is expected by this summer. The Tall Tales Ranch site is located on four acres north of the Schweiger Ranch historic property and east of the RidgeGate Parkway light rail station in Lone Tree. TTR has partnered…
In early December, President Joe Biden announced Colorado’s Front Range Passenger Rail (FRPR) as a designated corridor for federal funding. On December 13, Governor Jared Polis, members of the Front Range Passenger Rail District (FRPRD), along with local and federal leaders attended a virtual meeting with more than 329 attendees to celebrate Colorado’s acceptance into…
The neighborhood sports bar and grill that opened its doors in the King Soopers shopping center in mid-December 2019 recently closed its doors – and then reopened two weeks later – prompting questions about the establishment’s future. “Our lease is up next October, and we have been in negotiations for the sale of the business,”…
There is a new doctor in town. Dr. Allan Leach, urogynecologist at AdventHealth Castle Rock, moved to Castle Valley with his family last August. His story begins in Kentucky where he was born and raised. Allan attended the University of Kentucky for undergrad and then medical school where he was recruited by and joined the…
There are delectable sweets being prepared in a kitchen at The Village at Castle Pines. Carrie Manion makes caramels which are rich and divine, custom made by hand with the best and freshest ingredients. Historically a baker, Carrie began her in-home business by chance. Every December, she made treats for her neighbors as Christmas presents.…
In December, three families in the Green Briar neighborhood got festive. Ethan Hecker, a 17-year-old junior from Highlands Ranch, brought the Grinch to life. Inside their cozy homes, the families were in for a treat as they saw the Grinch approaching. Their eyes widened with curiosity and excitement, turning a regular day into something magical.…
The Parker Task Force (PTF) has been making a difference in the lives of people who are struggling in the communities of Parker, Franktown and Elizabeth for nearly four decades. “The PTF was founded 37 years ago, and it has grown incredibly as the community has grown,” said Diane Roth, a member of the PTF…
Connor and Mason Enquist undoubtedly have a lot of things in common. They are brothers; they live in the Estates at Buffalo Ridge; they go to the same school and only one year separates them in age. But the thing that could bring them the closest is their love and talent for wrestling. Connor is…
It is not unusual to hear about children following in their parent’s footsteps, or even following the same career path as someone in their immediate family. But for the Petau family, not one, not two, but several generations have chosen the same path. They are a family of firefighters. “The first person in my family…
Congratulations Elmer! He and his pinecone won the hearts of our judges, and he has been selected as the Cutest Pet in the Pines for 2023. Elmer will receive a $100 gift certificate to The Pet Stuff Place, a basket of goodies and bragging rights for the year. Bo and Annie will both receive $50…
Folly is a 3-year-old English Labrador Retriever who is basically a federal agent. Although she loves a good game of tug of war, fetching her tennis ball, and sipping on a Puppuchinos from Starbucks, Folly’s calm demeanor and strong olfactory system make her an excellent Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) K-9 detection…
Born in Lostivefel, England in 1844 during the reign of King Edward VII, Frank Sobey was raised in Dubuque, Iowa, where his parents had immigrated. Against their wishes and merely 15 years of age, Frank joined the Union Army. His family immediately disowned him. Despite his youth, he vindicated himself with great…
South Metro Fire Rescue (SMFR) Emergency communications manager Chris Carnahan flies drones and gets paid to do it. Chris has been part of SMFR’s drone team for nearly five years. Drones are flown by SMFR dispatchers who are part of the agency’s Drone Team. They respond from 911 call centers to support large incidents. Originally…
Douglas County was recently named number one as the most physically active county in the nation in the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) annual PLACES report. The report was released in 2023, used data from 2021, and was examined by Northwell Health, the largest health care system in the state of New York.…
Bark for Books (BFB) is a literacy program that helps budding and struggling readers build confidence and self-esteem by reading out loud to trained therapy dogs. As one piece of a child’s literacy journey, BFB is interactive and comforting without the stress of being judged by others; their furry audiences just listen, approve and give…
Across 1. Fancy tie 6. Mama’s partner 10. FBI operative 14. Future fungus 15. Petri dish filler 16. Puerto ___ 17. A very large atmospheric disturbance 19. “Green Gables” girl 20. “___ we there yet?” 21. Biblical verb ending 22. Disney’s Lady, for one 24. Undisturbed 26. Thomas Jefferson, religiously 27. Narcissus’ nemesis 30.…
Douglas County Division of Open Space and Natural Resources (Open Space) has a fun program, a scavenger hunt, encouraging residents to get outside and explore. The game, Decode Douglas County Outdoors, is an activity suitable for all ages using decode booklets provided by the county to track progress. The program begins January 1 and booklets…
The 80108 ZIP code is a marvelous place to live and socialize. On any given day, one has only to visit MiYO Café to appreciate the palpable community spirit and cohesion on display at virtually every table. Not long ago, I careened into what might best be called a meeting of “Ken’s Posse.” This group,…
The exercise of setting New Year’s resolutions is ancient. The Babylonians are often credited with starting the practice 4,000 years ago, followed by the Romans, and later Christians. Today, the religious undertones are mostly gone, but looking back and then forward in self-reflection and determination (no matter how brief) is still very much part of…
Dear Readers, I have enjoyed showering you with my advice and opinions on manners over these last four years. But the start of a new year brings changes. Going forward, my column will become an advice column much like “Dear Abby.” But in my case, “Dear Mrs. A.” Please send your questions to editor@castlepinesconnection.com by…
Longtime resident and business partner of The Connection, Linda Clure, hosted a holiday wreath-making party at the Forest Park clubhouse last month. “I come from a large family of very creative individuals; unfortunately, I did not inherit this gene,” laughed Linda. “My Mom used to teach craft classes when I was growing up, and I…
Resident and local realtor Sarah Phillips held her ninth annual toy drive at her home on Yorkshire Drive in December. Sarah shared that it was her largest turnout to date with more than 200 toys collected. The toys benefit Santa’s Sharing Program at the Help & Hope Center in Castle Rock. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo…
The annual Christmas tree lighting at The Ridge at Castle Pines took place on Friday, December 1. It was the first event of Winter Wonderland, a series of December happenings co-hosted by the City of Castle Pines and the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce. The event included food trucks, live performances, a visit with Santa…
It is January. The Monday of the year. Time to get back in the saddle. Sigh. The house is clean and the holidays are behind me, and while I look forward to the quiet of a new year, I always feel a little empty. The idea that I need to eat like a responsible adult…
