The Castle Pines Connection

By Lisa Nicklanovich The RCHS Freshmen Cheer squad won the state championship on December 13 at Cherokee Trail High School.  The roster in the January issue of The Connection was incomplete; the Freshmen Cheer squad roster includes: Sophie Chirco, Cameron Dreher, Megan Goldin, Annalise Hildebrand, Avery Kane, Shelby Kane, Caroline Lascor, Ashley Miller, Hailey Mosteller,…

Members of IN! hosted an information night for prospective parents and students at the home of Tammy Abramovitz in January.  Members of the Board of IN! presented information about the tremendous advances that the group has made in bringing about the reality of inclusive higher education for students with intellectual disabilities.  Pictured from left to…

Top photo: After research and discussion about the circulatory system, fifth graders Isaiah Barrett (left) and Matt Strong (center)share their findings about how the heart oxygenates blood with their teacher Carolynn Barthelemy.   Bottom photo: Logan Byers, a fifth grader at Sage Canyon Elementary, reviews the circulatory system with his teacher Carolynn Barthelemy. Students are…

Student musicians like BRE violinist Josh Ruegge and TTE trumpeter Abe West will perform at a charity event at the Castle Pines Community Center on February 6. Proceeds from the event will provide band and orchestra scholarships to local students in need. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett Budget cuts several years back changed the…

Julie Adkins, 15-year resident of Castle Pines, has started ShadowBox, a business dedicated to compiling all of your special memories from any event and creatively framing them for display.   Article and photo by Lisa Nicklanovich  How is it best to capture a child’s sports season, a vacation or other important event in your life? …

More often than not, computer science is viewed as complex, confusing, and not particularly exciting.  It is also an area that is traditionally overlooked by girls.  The non-profit organization Code.org is changing that thinking one student at a time.  During the week of December 8 through 14, Castle Pines schools joined the movement. The Hour…

Surrey Ridge resident Kim Butorac-Good (front row, center) celebrates the growth of Music of the Heart with its participants in the Fanfare St. Joseph L’Asile Marching Band in Haiti. By Patte Smith; photo courtesy of Kim Butorac-Good   The Fanfare St. Joseph L’Asile Marching Band in Haiti has expanded from 17 musicians to 28, thanks to…

By Elizabeth Wood West Alberta Development (Alberta) invited area residents to attend a community meeting in December to learn more about the Promenade at Castle Rock (Promenade) project.  Attendees listened to Alberta’s presentation describing its rezoning plans for the property and also had an opportunity to talk with one of the property’s first anchor tenants.…

Sam Carstens, art teacher at DCS Montessori took his seventh and eighth grade painting students on an excursion to Denver to visit the Museum of Contemporary Art. Seventh grader Ameya Goel purchased a ticket to ride light rail to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Denver. The field trip was the culminating event of a…

Ken Harrison’s new book “Victors and Victims” explores the topic of success versus failure.  “Most people think ambition is knowing what you want and getting it.  In reality, it is knowing what you can offer and giving it,” Harrison remarked.  The book is an interesting look at factors that lead to success and overall happiness.…

Article and photo by Patte Smith The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Army Corp of Engineers (ACOE) has started work on the west side slope of I-25 along North Surrey Drive, the road that leads into the Surrey Ridge neighborhood from the north. A spokesperson from CDOT stated that the work involves erosion…

Saskia Seebacher, a RCHS exchange student from Austria, shows a warm winter look.  European fashion is slowly but surely pushing its way into the states and Seebacher is one of RCHS’s prime fashionistas.  “Fashion fades, only style remains.” said Seebacher. Article and photo by Maria Pangalos, RCHS intern writer The new year is time to…

The Holocaust and its effects were explored by students at Rocky Heights Middle School during the very moving production of A”nne Frank & Me.”  Director and RHMS music and drama teacher Susan Ritter was impressed with how the actors and the audiences reacted to the show.  “Middle school students really can handle a lot of…

By Elean Gersack It’s time to think about registering for spring sports leagues and activities.  Here is a quick reference guide to some of the most popular leagues and recreational activities around.   Castle Pines Athletics Never leave the community and play at home with Castle Pines Athletics.  Registration for spring soccer opens January 1. …

Photo courtesy of Elena Ronquillo Rina Castanon (pictured in center in red) hosted her fifth annual ornament exchange and luncheon for new and long-time Forest Park neighbors and local friends.  Castanon said, “The ornament exchange is dear to my heart because my friends are like family and Christmas is my favorite holiday.  Each friend chose…

Thank you to all of our readers who submitted pictures of their wonderful pets for our 2014 “Cutest Pet in the Pines” holiday contest.  This year’s submissions were full of character and personality, and the stars clearly enjoyed mugging for the camera! The staff of The Castle Pines Connection chose the winner in a close…

The Devries children (left to right): Caitlin (17), Josephine (12), Nicholas (12), and Jack (16) are coaches at the family’s gym.   By Elizabeth Wood West; photos provided by Ule Logue Photography Castle Pines residents Chris and Sharon Devries can credit their four children as being the inspiration for their latest family business, Chameleon Gymnastics,…

By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Susan Elizabeth Lee Phillis Shimamoto (left) and Susan Elizabeth Lee (right), founders of the Sock it to ‘Em sock campaign, pose during their holiday party on Sunday, December 21. Gary and Donna Stern of MiYO and Deb and Fernando Salazar of SmartLife in Castle Pines Village volunteered their work…

By Elean Gersack The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) offers many great services to help keep Douglas County’s low-crime statistics in check.  By working as a team with community members, crime is more easily and effectively deterred.   According to Detective Chris Stadler of the DCSO, the famous quote by the forefather of community-oriented policing,…

Kaden Jensen (right) accepts a donation for his “Hats on for Diabetes” fundraiser.  Jensen planned and executed the fundraiser, which raised $800 for the American Diabetes Association. Timber Trail Elementary art teacher Wendy Wilson (left) and Kaden Jensen (right) don hats to wear at school. Students paid a dollar to wear a hat and funds…

By Lisa Crockett Darrick Fehringer owns the Papa Murphy’s franchise in Castle Pines. Accordingly, when Fehringer lists his business online, mails a letter, or places an advertisement, he uses “Castle Pines” as the business’ address.   “When we use ‘Castle Pines’ we feel that it helps clear up confusion,” said Fehringer. “Castle Pines is its…

The challenge staircase has 200 steps and is one of many fitness features at the new Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock welcoming all ages and fitness levels. By Elizabeth Wood West; photos courtesy of the Town of Castle Rock  If you are looking for a unique kick-start for your 2015 fitness program, try…

By Terri Wiebold How do you reflect your Castle Pines lifestyle?  Are you a member of a book club, a bunko group, a fantasy football league, a bridge club, a hiking group, a quilting guild, etc.?  Share your story and your photos with The Connection and your neighbors in 80108. The Castle Pines Connection welcomes…

By Lisa Crockett Kindergarten registration for the 2014-2015 school year at Buffalo Ridge Elementary, Timber Trail Elementary, and Sage Canyon Elementary takes place in early January.  For specific dates and times, visit individual school websites, listed below. Eligible children must be five years of age by October 1, 2015.  For registration, you will need to…

Tina Dang opened her new business, Castle Pines Day Spa in December, fulfilling a life-long dream. Article and photo by Elizabeth Wood West “Being an esthetician is my dream, my talent; it’s what I love to do!” exclaimed Tina Dang, esthetician and owner of the new Castle Pines Day Spa.   Dang had three potential…

Third grader Harper Linn keeps track of funds raised at a lunchtime bake sale. Fifth grader Kyle Mackzum was an enthusiastic supporter of the third-grade bake sale, saying he enjoyed “great treats for a good cause.” First grader Rosie Benson, samples some “stone” soup at lunch time.  Benson, along with her fellow first graders raised…

Twelve-year-old Emily Glynn took twelfth place at the USATF Junior Olympic National Cross Country Championships in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina last month. By Lisa Crockett; photo courtesy of the Glynn family Twelve-year-old Emily Glynn, a member of the Parker Panthers running club, is racing toward an impressive distance-running career.  Last month she took twelfth place…

Photo courtesy of Kirsten Dreher The RCHS Freshmen Cheer squad after winning the state championship on December 13 at Cherokee Trails High School.  The team won all six of their regular season competitions.  The roster includes: Ashley Miller, Hailey Mosteller, Julia Nelson, Jessica Palyo, Amanda Rissler, Jenna Rivera, Jetta Schwiegerath, Natalie Valdes, Payton Warder, Jaycee…

A juice cleanse from Nekter Juice Bar features different juices like this one, a spicy lemonade-style drink that gets a pleasant kick from cayenne and turmeric. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett  Like many Americans, I take a break from healthy eating in December.  Endless parties and goodie platters mean all the things I love…

A group of competitive and fun loving Castle Pines residents gathered at Elk Ridge Park on Thanksgiving morning for the Second annual Turkey Day Adult Punt, Pass & Kick Competition. Submitted by Jeff Stotler; photo courtesy of Mary Clothier On Thanksgiving morning, a group of Castle Pines residents, led by Winter Berry resident Jeff Stotler,…

Claire Preen, a chocolatier and recipe book author moved from Australia to call Castle Pines her home.  Preen’s new book “Diva’s Guide to Dinner Parties,” which includes complete dinner party plans and 67 recipes, was just published.  Article and photo by Maria Pangalos, RCHS intern writer “What inspires me the most is the end result…

Varsity Cheer team roster:  Seniors:  Ariel Bailey (captain), Peyton Burger, Morgan Hildebrand, Rachel Moote, Caleigh Newberry, Paige Parrottino (captain), Hayley Pearson (captain), Caroline Skibness, Danelle Turnock, Darcy Vogt and Blair Whitworth.  Juniors:  Halie Balman, Ashley Bradley, Claudia Bradley, Lauren Fultz, Alisa Grossman, Mallory Happ, Megan Happ, Lily Lytle, Rachel Rothman and Lauren Shepherd.  Sophomore:  Schyler Geck.…

Eighth grader Kerst Meibos at the Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, the site of his Eagle Scout project. Meibos directed 130 volunteers in an effort to photograph and catalog all the gravesites in the cemetery.  By Lisa Crockett; photos courtesy of the Meibos family Thirteen-year-old Kerst Meibos spent a lot of his summer vacation in a…

By Lisa Nicklanovich; logo art by Kathy Ehler How can we as a community help keep our teens safe?  One proven way is to provide a fun, substance-free event on prom night, one of the most dangerous nights of the year for teens.    Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) Principal Andy Abner said, “Our goal…

By Elean Gersack There are many great fields and parks in Castle Pines available by reservation for sports practices, parties or gatherings.  The Castle Pines North Metropolitan District manages Coyote Ridge, Daniels Gate, and The Retreat parks while the City of Castle Pines manages Elk Ridge Park.  Here is how to make reservations: Coyote Ridge,…

The Stutler, Ihme, Giampietro and Nicklanovich families, along with their dogs, Roxie and Abby, joined together to support finding a cure for arthritis. Article and photo by Lisa Nicklanovich  Despite a week of warm, sunny weather, the clouds rolled in and snow started falling on December 14 just as the Jingle Bell 5K run/walk was…

Clients of the Douglas/Elbert Task Force will have a brighter holiday season, thanks to the generosity of our readers and many other friends, businesses, and family members from outside the community who helped fill the “POD in the Pines” with much-needed new clothing, toys, toiletries, and food. By Amy Shanahan; photo courtesy of Jeremy Gamble…

Seven-year-old Calvin Stotler warming up before his first round of the Punt, Pass and Kick competition at David Lorenz Park on September 20. American Academy second grader Calvin Stotler shows off his second place trophy in the PP&K, a customized football from the NFL.  By Kathy Fallert; photos courtesy of Ellen Stotler     Being an…

Savannah Petrosevich built her home with a roof made from egg cartons. Designed for the temperate forest, the home’s pitched roof allows rain and snow to easily roll off. Sage Canyon Elementary kindergartner Dylan Early shows off his dream house built of materials from the recycling bin, featuring a swimming pool and diving board, a…

Article and photos by Amy Shanahan The Christmas spirit was alive in Castle Pines on December 6, as families, singers, and holiday revelers came together to celebrate at the annual Santa in the Pines event at The Village at Castle Pines.  Hundreds of people came together to enjoy sleigh rides, visits with Santa and Mrs.…

Defense! Defense! King Arthur’s evasive behind-the-back dribble is hard to defend – just go ahead and foul him! By Patte Smith; photos courtesy of the Harlem Wizards organization Basketball “fan-antics,” flying fast breaks, riotous rebounds, and amazing alley oops are the name of the game as the world famous Harlem Wizards try to outscore the…

Buffalo Ridge Elementary students get ready to test their paper rockets alongside fifth grade teacher, Dana Sedersten. By Elean Gersack; photo courtesy of Sandy Cranston On November 19, kids at Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) were yet again treated to an after-school STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) program.  This is the third year for…

Article and photos by Lisa Crockett I always look forward to January.  There’s something so peaceful about taking down all the holiday decorations and enjoying the emptiness of the house after a season of celebration.  I like a good party as much as the next person, but there is something deeply delicious about a quiet,…

The merchants in The Village at Castle Pines have joined Sterling Building & Design to fill a large-size POD with much-needed items such as new and unwrapped clothing of all sizes, new and unwrapped toys, toiletries, gift cards, and non-perishable food items for donation to the Douglas/Elbert Task Force. Please consider helping those less fortunate…

Michaela Fullerton, resident of Castle Pines, was another of last year’s finalists who displayed her performing talent last March at the Lone Tree Arts Center. By Kathy Fallert; photos courtesy of Kiwanis Club The Kiwanis Club of Castle Rock will be holding auditions for its 11th annual Stars of Tomorrow talent competition at the Lone…

Candi Beach hosted an event to support Lukas Larsson and Love Hope Strength on Saturday, November 15. Pictured left to right: Alisha Bell (she got registered), Cash Beach (baby), Candi Beach, Lukas Larsson, Oliver Larsson, and Morgan Bell (he got registered … his dad lost his battle with leukemia last December). By Elean Gersack; photos…

By Patte Smith; photo courtesy of Dr. Jacqueline Shuler Why do kids scribble? Why do they paint blue cats and green people? Should a parent help their preschooler learn to draw? What is wrong with coloring books? Find the answers to these intriguing questions along with a lot of delightful photos of toddlers creating art…

The Douglas/Elbert Task Force Santa’s Sharing program allows community members the opportunity to “adopt” local pre-qualified families in Douglas and Elbert counties who find themselves in need during this holiday season. If you represent a business, association, individual, family, or community group and would like more information on this program, e-mail the program coordinator at…

Haley Pearson, Castle Pines resident, was deeply moved after visiting the Sinde Village in Africa in 2012 and wanted to do more to help out. By Kathy Fallert; photos courtesy of the Pearson Family The Pearson family, residents of Winter Berry, recently started making it their mission to raise money for communities in need, particularly…

By Lisa Crockett; photos courtesy of Ben Archibald It’s the season of hustle and bustle, of crowds and hassles. Amidst the chaos, a true moment of peace might be the best gift of all. At Regency Tea Room (Tea Room) in The Emporium in Castle Rock, that peace and serenity is done with elegance and…

Which came first, the chicken or “The Egg and I?” Castle Rock residents Cal and Teresa Weatherly and their family and friends at the new The Egg & I, which opened its doors last month in Castle Rock. Article and photo by Cindy Kessinger Cal and Teresa Weatherly are now the proud owners of their…

Seventh grader Taylor Eubanks presents rules for the creativity contest she is coordinating. By Lisa Crockett; photos by Lisa Crockett and courtesy of Ben Franklin Academy Castle Pines seventh grader Taylor Eubanks has girl scouting in her blood. Both her mom and her grandmother were avid scouters, and Taylor is continuing the tradition by earning…

Castle Pines resident and travel consultant Nancy Warner has gained much of her travel knowledge through first-hand experience, like this trip to Ireland. By Lisa Crockett; photos courtesy of Nancy Warner Vacation time. Whether Santa is bringing you some cash to spend on a getaway in the near future or you’re thinking of longer-range plans,…

Life-sized LEGOs, DUPLO racetracks, and virtual building activities are featured in the LEGO Travel Adventure exhibit, now showing at The Wildlife Experience in Parker. By Lisa Crockett; photos courtesy of The Wildlife Experience LEGO bricks are the building blocks for an exciting new exhibit at The Wildlife Experience (WLE) in Parker. The exhibit, called the…

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 and also at Walgreens. Article and photo by Lisa Crockett Castle Pines commemorative Christmas ornaments are now on sale, with proceeds benefitting the Castle Pines Arts and Cultural…

Miscellany Miscellany, the wonderful new store in The Village at Castle Pines, held its grand opening on a beautiful snowy day in November and attracted hundreds of shoppers. The boutique specializes in rustic décor, fanciful “found” objects, funky jewelry, and cute one-of-a-kind tops and sweaters. Owner Suzette Brauch, a Castle Pines Village resident, featured Christmas…

By Elean Gersack Safety is a top priority for most families. Fortunately, we live in one of the safest counties around. As a community, it’s up to everyone – families, neighbors, friends, schools, and law enforcement – to work together to help keep everyone safe. The Castle Pines Connection recently sat down with Douglas County…

By Lisa Crockett Colorado weather can be unpredictable, sometimes making travel treacherous. On a snowy day, it can be tough for parents and students to predict whether or not schools will open their doors. When questionable weather descends upon the area, the Douglas County School District (DCSD) has several procedures in place for deciding how…

The Robotics team at RHMS took home numerous awards from the district-wide Robotics Tournament held on November 15. The competition sparked the creativity of the students who worked so hard to master the art of creating a working and functioning robot. Submitted by eighth grade student Riley Busch; photo courtesy of eighth grade student Sydney…

Cowgirls McKenna Deckert (left) and Maddie Hill sample goodies made from fruits and veggies at Sage Canyon Elementary’s annual harvest festival and farmer’s market. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett Harvest has always been a time to celebrate the bounty of the season, and the tradition of a Harvest Day festival is alive and well…

This dramatic scene of Jesus on the cross closed out Regis Jesuit’s production of “Jesus Christ Superstar.” (Photo courtesy of Jeff Harpham) By Amy Shanahan; courtesy photos Regis Jesuit High School (RJ) was excited to produce its first musical in the school’s all-new Z Theater in the recently constructed Performing Arts Center and Student Commons.…

By Elean Gersack; photos courtesy of Sandy Cranston It was a blast from the past at Buffalo Ridge Elementary school on Friday, November 14. Families came out in droves to enjoy a laid back night of Bingo with a potluck dinner. In between rounds of Bingo, minute-to-win-it challenges kept the kids, parents, teachers and staff…

This season’s Timber Trail Elementary Girls on the Run team. Article and photos by Lisa Crockett Another season of Girls on the Run has drawn to a close for students at Timber Trail Elementary (TTE). The nationwide program is designed to teach third through fifth grade girls about physical and mental health and helps girls…

Eighth grade students from Rocky Heights Middle School had the opportunity to attend the district-sponsored Career Expo in November. Students enjoyed hearing about various careers and many came away with new ideas and dreams for their future. Submitted by RHMS eighth grade student Cody Hyman; photos courtesy of RHMS eighth grade student Josh Harmon Life…

BRE’s Green Team and the results of their lunch-time garbage bags plastic audit. The team created a baseline and will re-audit two more times this year with the hopes of inventory decreasing. Next up, food waste. Article and photos by Lynne Marsala Basche Recycling may not be something that students think about everyday, but Buffalo…

The Rock Canyon High School band performing at the Legend Show at Sports Authority Stadium on October 11 where they won first place. From left to right: Taylor Martin on flute, Shu Ee Ong on saxophone and Mark Berry on flute. By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of RCHS Band, Betsy Riner, and Tammy Reed The…

William Shakespeare, Cleopatra and Theodore Roosevelt all gathered at the DCS Montessori school (DCSM) in Castle Pines for a historic day last month. The unlikely trio was joined by all manner of other historic figures, ranging from Davy Crockett to Queen Mary – all played by students who were well-versed in the life and times…