The Castle Pines Connection

RHMS Nighthawks Trevor Fearon, Carter Brand, Caleb Jaramillo, Anthony DiMuria and Derek Fearon at the completion of the Douglas County Cross Country District Championships.  Fearon, Brand, Jaramillo and Fearon are part of the varsity team that won their division.  (Not pictured: Jack Hibbett, Wesley Beckham and Carson Timmons). By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of…

By Patte Smith

Wahoo!  Drew, Larson and Cameron Cooke take on a Keystone Mountain snowstorm this past March.  Winter will be here soon, so get your ski passes ready to go and have a blast on the slopes this season! By Elean Gersack; photo courtesy of the Cooke Family Epic Schoolkids Colorado Pack New this year is the…

Castle Pines residents Jennifer and Craig Loucks (left) and Angela and Rob Greenhow (right) had a fantastic time at the Urban Nights event where the theme for the evening was #grateful. (Photo courtesy of Westword Magazine). By Amy Shanahan; courtesy photos Congratulations to Castle Pines Village (CPV) residents Cheryl and Gary Joseph and their family foundation for…

By Patte Smith Minions, super heroes, witches and turtles can gather ghoulish gummy goodies (say that fast three times) at the annual Trick or Treat Street held in the Castle Pines business districts on October 28 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.   Kids get to trek around the area and get some goodies.  Trick or…

Article and photos by Amy Shanahan The Rotary Club of Castle Pines (RCCP) is extremely active in our local community and the members give graciously of their time to raise money for programs that support both our local and the international community.  On August 23, the RCCP held its inaugural “BBQ, Brews and Banjos” event…

Gerald Albright enjoyed playing the saxophone and taking the stage with his daughter Selina for a special performance held at The Country Club at Castle Pines. By Amy Shanahan; courtesy photos Members of The Country Club at Castle Pines (CCCP) were treated to a wonderful evening of music under the stars, courtesy of club member…

The Settlement is a new development of 12 custom luxury homes in Castle Pines Village. Two well-known Colorado home builders will build The Settlement.  Chris and Amy Sublette (owners of Ryan Homes Inc.) are pictured left, and Bill and Jill Maul (owners of Viaggio Homes) are pictured right. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Shawn…

Local band “Second Round” performed at The Country Club at Castle Pines on September 4.  “I don’t know who had more fun….the audience or the band!” stated band member Archie Anderson.  Band members from left to right: Matt Talbot, Joey Alfano, Joe Alfano, Archie Anderson, Joe Cantalamessa, John Talbot, and Mike Schwander. Article and photo…

Third grade festivities ensued on September 3 when the kids were taken out to the ball game as part of their baseball class theme. By Kathy Fallert; photos courtesy of Mary Carter The Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) third grade classrooms chose the theme of baseball this year.  Keeping in that culture, it was fitting that…

Photos by Cindy Cranstone The Connection caught up with 80108 resident Ashli Griswold (pictured right) at the new Lolli & Pops store in Park Meadows.  The Lolli & Pops website sums it all up with, “We are a small collection of candy shops with a simple goal – to make the world sweeter.” Inside you…

HOA1 residents Lorrie Ball (above left) and Harley Rinerson (above right) would be facing a three story structure just 60 feet from their property lines if the proposed complex project moves forward.  Castle Pines City Planner Sam Bishop (left) and Price Development Group (PDG) representative Chris Bennish held several meetings last month to address concerns…

Sisters Amber Graham (left) and Magen Culver (right) are in their fourth year of spooking locals on their annual Castle Rock Ghost Tour. By Kathy Fallert; Photo courtesy of Magen Culver and Amber Graham Sisters and Castle Rock residents Magen Culver and Amber Graham spent a lot of time traveling from their home town in…

By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of AA A September morning started as a typical school day for American Academy (AA), but it quickly turned into a mixture of tense moments and excitement when a great horned owl was found trapped in one of the school’s soccer nets. AA’s facilities director Steve Cunningham found the…

By Lynne Marsala Basche; photos courtesy of the City of Castle Pines On September 13, the City of Castle Pines hosted the 4th annual Run Wild in conjunction with the inaugural Dirty 40 Ride Wild, which was postponed last April due to inclement weather.  It is no understatement to say Castle Pines got wild! More…

Left to right: Mark Adams, Kristin Adams, Nicole Opperman, John Kutac, and Jeff Jervik celebrated in Las Vegas. Press release and photo submitted by Elements Therapeutic Massage National franchise Elements Therapeutic Massage (Elements) celebrated the best of the best at its annual awards ceremony last month in Las Vegas. Nicole Opperman, manager of the Castle…

By Patte Smith; photos courtesy of Douglas County Libraries A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…wait, no, that’s not right.  It is October 2015 here on earth where spaceships do not fly up and down I-25 – but parents you can shuttle your kids ages 6-12 to the Douglas County Libraries STEM…

Fifteen staff members at The Country Club at Castle Pines received scholarship money on behalf of the club members.  Left to right:  Ethan Baughman, Reed Wagstaff, Jordan Kauffmann, Mackenzie Maslowski, Kayla Trujillo, Mario Mangone, Morgan Adams, Ryan Hough, Blake Mounts, Justin “JT’ Kahn, Alexis Svenson, Kyle Parmley, and Lauren Simpson.  Not pictured: Sebastian Wilson and…

Ten-year-old Ferron Marx displayed her winning entry in the Food Truck Frenzy poster contest, which will be used for promotion of the event next summer. By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of Castle Pines Orthodontics The Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce hosted its inaugural Food Truck Frenzy this summer, but food was not the only…

10u World Series Championship Warriors wrapped up an amazing undefeated week on July 25.  Left to right, back row: Coaches Eric Jaworsky, Jon Shank (CP), Ryan Duman (CP), and Scott Bliek (CP); Front row:  Garrett Triplett, Chase Jaworsky, JT Shank (CP), Julian Terreza, Carson Tinney, Brody Bliek (CP), Dominick Cristinzio, Dylan Goltl, Noah Scott, Brayden Duman,…

Spector, Dodd & Associates hosted a community paper shred and computer recycling event on Saturday, August 1. The event was a rousing success, with more than 200 cars dropping off recycling.  The event raised roughly $1,500 for Connect Us, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help develop skills in young children with Autism.  The…

Liz Jurkowski and her son Wade waited for the light rail train at Lincoln Station in Lone Tree. Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski What little kid does not like a train ride?  And what mom would turn down some real quality time with her son or daughter?  On a beautiful summer weekend day, the…

Caption and photo by Amy Shanahan The Country Club at Castle Pines would like to congratulate Sean McCue for 20 years of service as the golf course superintendent at the club.  McCue has served in this position through many staff and club changes but still enjoys his job every single day.  “I love my job…

Castle Pines resident Jameson Benson (17) was crowned Douglas County Fair Queen 2016.  To learn more about Jameson, visit http://www.douglascountyfairandrodeo.com/royalty/. Douglas County Fair Queen Jameson Benson with Sheriff Tony Spurlock (right) and the 2016 royal court. Photo courtesy of Carla Kenny

Loralee Kaschinske and Martha Beck. Beverly Byrd and Molly Beck By Patte Smith; photos courtesy of Douglas County Libraries Volunteering over the past year, four Castle Pines residents were recognized by Douglas County Libraries (DCL) on July 28 for their service and commitment to the libraries.  Each award winner received the President’s Volunteer Service Award,…

Thirteen-year-old Castle Pines resident Maiya Upton is an active participant with DCYO. Long time musician and conductor Thomas Blomster helps lead 35 young musicians at DCYO. By Kathy Fallert; photos courtesy of Julia Brochey Do you have a young orchestra musician looking to expand their horizons?  Douglas County Youth Orchestra (DCYO) may be just the…

Article and photos by Amy Shanahan; photos by Cindy Cranstone Close to 2,000 people made it out to Sterling Custom Homes’ annual luxury home tour in August.  Sterling, along with many of its trade partners showcased a beautifully custom-built home in Castle Pines Village.  Visitors were able to see the very latest in custom finishes…

By Patte Smith More successful than organizers imagined, the Lone Tree Link is going strong and will celebrate its first anniversary on September 17.  “We’ve been extremely impressed with the Lone Tree Link service and the positive response from riders who have chosen to utilize the free shuttle to get them to and from the…

Rocky Heights Middle School is proud of its new administrative team.  Left to right: Dean Kelly Corr, Assistant Principal Celine Wicks, Principal Dr. Jason Sears, and Assistant Principal Matt Wilson. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) experienced quite a bit of change over the summer, as its entire administrative staff…

By Patte Smith Autumn in Colorado is a sensory experience.  Whether on a weekend drive through the mountains or trekking along a path next to a stream, the beauty of fall colors is amazing.  Take a deep breath and smell the pines while enjoying the  breathtaking sights of the Rockies and the color palette of…

Members of Foundry Church in Castle Pines came together for the Do Good Challenge, helping others in need. By Riley Busch, RCHS intern writer; photo courtesy of Debra Prince When you look around you, what do you see?  Do you see only the world, full of your worries and problems?  Or, do you see the…

Article and photos by Amy Shanahan While development in the 80108 zip code has been limited the past few years, residents in the southern portion of Castle Pines Village are seeing some new home construction. Home builder Taylor Morrison  featured  its “Under the Tuscan Sky” event at its new development in Castle Pines Village on…

Article and photos by Amy Shanahan School may be back in session, but summer is not over yet!  Castle Pines Village (CPV) residents celebrated going back to school with a kid’s carnival at the Summit Club and a pool party at the Canyon Club on a gorgeous day in August.  Both parties were hosted by…

Vacquero resident Jessie Kenny had a slew of supporters from the neighborhood at the Ironman Boulder finish line. Participating in her first Iron Man Triathlon ever, Kenny finished in just over 12 ½ hours last month in Boulder. By Kathy Fallert; photos courtesy of Jessie Kenny Jessie Kenny, resident of Vacquero, moved to Colorado two…

The CPV Ladies 3.5 Red team (two photos above) is all grins right after their state championship win on August 2!  Congratulations to the entire team — Jill Skinner, Liz Zeller, Stacia Novak, Karen Lang-Pluto, Diane David, Deb Rubida, Biz Hansen, Britney Anderson, Mary Elizabeth Lowen, Anthea Gerberg, Linda Hanson, Karin Miller and Mary Walker.…

By Elean Gersack On Saturday, September 19 from 8 a.m. to noon dogs and their owners will converge on the trails at Glendale Farm Open Space for a wag of a good time at the annual Denver Dumb Friends League’s Wag ‘n Trail.      The 1.6 mile hike will boast beautiful views and plenty of…

Outgoing Rotary club president Karen Becker (left) was thrilled to present the award for Rotarian of the Year to Renee Palmer (right) in thanks for her dedicated service to her local community. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of James McClung The Rotary Club of Castle Pines (RCCP) was thrilled to honor Renee Palmer as Rotarian…

Maria and Sophia Pangalos atop 14,265-foot Quandary Peak near Breckenridge with a photo-bombing mountain dog. Article and photos by Maria Pangalos, RCHS intern writer As the school year begins again, we fall back into the same routines; mom and dad at work, kids at school, kids go to activities after school, you all eat dinner…

Castle Pines Village residents Fred and Jana Bartlit are pictured with this year’s entertainers Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald.  The Lulu’s Barkin’ BBQ fundraiser is held at the Bartlit’s lovely home each year and benefits the Dumb Friends League.  This year the event raised nearly $800,000 and succeeded in finding new homes for ten lucky…

By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Lisa Perini A big part of what makes Lulu’s Barkin’ BBQ such an amazing event (see related story front page) is the delicious food that is served each year.  Thanks to the wonderful folks from Perini Ranch Steakhouse out of Buffalo Gap, Texas, no one goes home hungry. Tom…

Caption and photos by Elean Gersack Matt and Kari Ansay (far left and far right) with dear friends John and Kristi Hermann of Castle Pines Village.  John served as Master of Ceremonies for the awards ceremony during the XDrive Classic Golf Tournament at The Club at Pradera on August 3.  Proceeds from the event went…

Fifteen year Castle Pines resident Dennis Murray is the only pro golfer in Colorado history to be named both Teacher of the Year (2015) and Player of the Year (1982). By Kathy Fallert; photo courtesy of Dennis Murray We’ve all heard the saying, “those who can, DO; those who can’t, TEACH.”  Not so for professional…

Social worker Julia Gregson loves having her practice in the Coldwell Banker building on Happy Canyon Road in the heart of Castle Pines.  Her dog Claire is ever present by her side and is happy to greet visitors and clients alike. By Rachel Zetwick, intern writer; photo by Amy Shanahan When walking into Julia Gregson’s…

By Lynne Marsala Basche There is nothing better than getting outside on a crisp late summer or early fall Colorado day and participating in a local run or bike event.  And, if those events have zombies, color blasters or pumpkins, all the better.  Lace up your sneakers, get ready to walk, run or anything in…

By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of Lucia McConnell Inspiration is everywhere you look.  For Castle Rock artist Cindy Welch, inspiration can be found in the form of a mailbox, colorful outdoor umbrellas and even business signs.  Welch’s latest commission, “The Barn,” which is being unveiled next month, represents her passion for capturing moments in…

A Spellbinder volunteer captivated the imagination of this audience of children. Information provided by Douglas County Libraries Douglas County Libraries is seeking volunteers for a program that bridges the generation gap and helps young children learn. Spellbinders are seasoned volunteers ages 50 and older who stay young at heart by telling stories to children in…

The Crockett Family (Richard, Lisa, Nora, Sam, and Ben) are heading north to Mankato, Minnesota. They are all set to make new friends, tackle the cold and try things like snowshoeing and cross country skiing. We will miss you all! By Elean Gersack; photo courtesy of the Crockett Family Lisa Crockett and The Castle Pines…

Dr. Jay and Gina Brekke have jumped in with both feet and are already making a difference in the Castle Pines community.  On this recent “house call” to SmartLife Audio Video in The Village, Dr. Jay examined Cody after a frantic call from the business owner who was concerned about the Labrador Retriever.  All are…

Louisa Wright is a Castle Pines resident who came up with a simple idea three years ago and has seen tremendous success with her product My Back Sleeper.  The pillow (pictured here) forces users to remain sleeping on their back throughout the night. Article and photo by Amy Shanahan It took more than a couple…

Each month, The Connection Food & Dining guide features a restaurant we feel our readers will enjoy.  A restaurant  cannot pay to be featured, and there is no charge to the restaurant once they have been selected.   This month, we thought we would spice things up a bit with ethnic food.  Check out The Connection…

Logan Haselden enjoyed showing his vintage 1970 Grabber Green Mustang Fastback to the huge crowd that came out to enjoy the Hot Rods in the Village Car Show. Article and photos by Amy Shanahan The seventh annual “Hot Rods in the Village” car show sponsored by the Vintage Car Club of Castle Rock took place…

Tapestry Hills residents (left to right) Kieran, Cortney, Ryan, and Cale Williams.  Cortney underwent a voluntary double mastectomy last year as cancer prevention. By Kathy Fallert; photo courtesy of Courtney Williams With Breast Cancer Awareness month just around the corner, genetic testing for the BRCA genes may be an option to consider.  The BRCA gene…

Castle Pines neighbor Dennis Hendrickson (center) and his family enjoy a meal from California-based The Melt, now open in the dining hall at Park Meadows Retail Resort.  (Photo by Terri Wiebold)

By Lisa Crockett The Connection’s website has a fresh new look. When you visit www.castlepinesconnection.com you will find more than just a pretty face, however.  In a matter of seconds, readers can easily access information about any subject The Connection has covered – ever – plus a whole lot more! “Although we pride ourselves on…

By Lynne Marsala Basche The Castle Pines Rotary is excited to introduce BBQ, Brews & Banjos.  This family-friendly event is August 23 from 12:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the Bar Double F Ranch in Larkspur and is sure to be a toe-tapping good time.   Spend a relaxing summer afternoon enjoying delicious food and…

The recent HRC fundraiser taught the young cyclists respect for the trail system and also gave them some well-deserved pride in the work they accomplished. Pictured right:  After repairing more than 800 feet of trail, these HRC volunteers took a test ride to enjoy their hard work. By Kathy Fallert; photos courtesy of Kim Lockett…

More than 200 volunteers donated their time to Project Recycle, a local nonprofit organization that gives recycled bikes to children and adults in need.  These volunteers spent a beautiful day together at Elk Ridge Park in July.  Jim Mullen and his great-granddaughter Harper Ann Cooper both volunteered for Project Recycle and attended the event at…

By Carin R. Kirkegaard; photos courtesy of Cari Ogg and Justin Day Local Castle Pines swim team, the Castle Crocs, ended the summer swim season and celebrated a decade of bringing the community together and developing its youth through swimming.   More than 20 new swimmers joined old veterans and moved up in the ranks…

Information provided by the Douglas Elbert REALTOR® Association Helping Hands is a community outreach program of the Douglas Elbert REALTOR® Association. Its mission is to help those in need within our community with home improvement projects to better a family’s quality of life. Helping Hands supports the elderly, the young, the disabled, the economically challenged,…

BRE’s new principal, John Veit, and his family on a summer vacation to Universal Studios in Florida before starting the new school year. By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of John Veit A new school year always brings changes and excitement, and the halls of Buffalo Ridge Elementary school (BRE) are no exception.  In addition…

Gerald Albright tours throughout the world but his wife Glynis and his children Brandon and Selina are his foundation.  The family enjoyed time together for Father’s Day on the patio at The Country Club at Castle Pines.  Albright’s daughter Selina is a talented vocalist who will perform with her father at the end-of-the-summer party at…