Read the stories from the latest issue:
A real estate guru, a collector, a father, a grandfather and a philanthropist, Roger Rostvold has a story worth sharing. He and partner Janine Gibson are enjoying retirement in their townhome in HOA2. Stemming from Norwegian heritage, Roger was born in Palo Alto, California, and grew up in Claremont, the oldest of five. He attended…
Memorial Day weekend officially kicked off summer travel along the I-70 mountain corridor, and since then, motorists have started to see delays ramping up with Denver hitting triple digits last month and summer activities and events in mountain communities creating a big draw. The Fourth of July weekend is consistently one…
Life can change in a moment’s notice. Registering for CodeRED alerts from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) allows mass notifications to areas where emergencies are occurring. The system not only notifies citizens of evacuations for emergencies like wildfires, it also notifies when there is police activity in an area, bio-terrorism alerts, boil water notices,…
On June 18, community members, local leaders and advocates gathered for an afternoon of celebration and connection at the much-anticipated open house celebration of Unity on Park, an inclusive housing development for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD). Hosted by the Douglas County Housing Partnership in collaboration with Wellspring Community, the event marked a…
Local teens are sitting on both sides of the table at Teen Court, a peer-to-peer criminal justice system for teens under 18 years old charged with non-violent, first-time municipal offenses. The program is restorative in nature with the goal of preventing future offenses. Teen Court has positive benefits for everyone involved. According to Alex…
Hard times happen. A new resource guide can help residents connect to convenient wellbeing services. Working together, the Douglas County Health Department, Department of Human Services, the Healthy Families Partnership and the Older Adult Initiative collaborated to collect resources and combine them into one online map for all ages focusing on the following needs: Education…
On June 11, the Douglas County Older Adult Initiative held a Senior Resource Fair and Town Hall at the county building in Castle Rock. Several local organizations set up booths to share information about transportation, housing and in-house services (such as meal delivery and help with chores), followed by a panel presentation that included questions…
Douglas County taxpayers who are 65 or older as of January 1 may qualify for a senior property tax exemption. The application deadline is Tuesday, July 15. The partial tax exemption for senior citizens was created for qualifying seniors as well as the surviving spouses of seniors who previously qualified. As of January 1, taxpayer…
Growing up suffering from eczema, 22-year-old Jack Kerstiens (pictured left) tried everything to relieve his discomfort. The ointments, creams and even prescriptions never provided much comfort, so Jack looked for a more natural solution and found tallow. Tallow is rendered, clarified beef or sheep fat, mostly from around the animal’s organs. It has a…
At just 19 years old, Kayden Ozdemir is on the road to success and already has a formidable resume. Currently studying astrophysics with a double major in business management and economics at the University of California-Santa Cruz (UCSC), Kayden graduated from Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) in 2024 with highest honors and is one of…
Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali: all of these famous artists revolutionized the painting style known as Modernism, but one artist has been on the path to an entirely unique art style, fittingly called “Gregism.” Lifelong artist Greg Dye captures colorful scenes of the American West in his own method of oil painting. Greg…
Having a child graduate into their next phase of life, at any age, can be emotional; your heart is pulled in different directions. Imagine having three kids move forward all at the same time. Welcome to Mary and Mike Kasal’s world these past few months. The Kings Crossing parents watched two daughters and a son…
When you ask Preston Clapper at what age he set his sights on being a pilot, he will tell you it was as early as he can remember. Growing up in a military household with a dad who was an F-16 pilot in the Air Force was also pivotal. “Aviation has always been a central…
No two days are the same for the executive director of Jefferson County Public Library (JCPL), Donna Walker. Her role is to meet the mission of the library and oversee 11 branches and 450 staff members. Donna spends much of her time meeting with elected officials and community leaders to understand how the library can…
Carrie Glassburn has her perfect job at the Town of Parker (Town). As the cultural director of Parker Arts, Carrie has a variety of responsibilities. She selects mural artists and bands to book for the upcoming season at Discovery Park, the downtown amphitheater; she writes grant proposals for new cultural initiatives; she presents to Town…
Last month, deputies from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) responded to an unusual call––a wild moose signting near I-25 and Happy Canyon Road. After wandering the community and being captured on several Ring security cameras, a neighbor reported that the female moose, estimated to weigh 1,000 pounds, settled in behind Saxton Place in The…
Hey there, it’s me, your dog Mi-Perro. (You know my name means “my dog” in Spanish, right?) I want to share some thoughts with you about me and thunder and fireworks. It’s summertime! Nice warm days. Time for playing on the grass and chasing balls. But also, time for those loud fireworks and thunderstorms. I…
Biscuit, a miniature horse, was just four months old when Kristi Hoben brought her home in 2018. The amount of joy Biscuit would end up bringing to others was not yet known. But boy, did she shine. In 2019, the principal of Palmer Ridge High School in Monument reached out to Kristi’s husband and…
With more than 100 years of history and tradition, the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo (DCFR) is a county icon. The fair runs every summer, with its award-winning rodeo, celebrating the western heritage and agriculture of Douglas County. DCFR marks 1918 as its official first year, but several similar events in the previous couple of…
In May, the Wiens Ranch in south Sedalia hosted a cutting horse competition, reminding us that ranching was and remains significant to the economic welfare of Douglas County. William Newlin of Parker is credited with bringing Shorthorn cattle from Minnesota into Douglas County in 1862. The term of art is ranging, i.e., cattle ranged…
Ancient Greek, Roman and Celtic cultures believed bees to be messengers that moved between mortals and the gods. Ancient Egyptians revered bees and honey—both were associated with the sun god Ra. Bees represented harmony, balance, luck and prosperity in Chinese folklore. Today we often associate these miniature pollinators with industry and hard work. Honey has…
The City of Castle Pines has no events planned for Independence Day this year, but several are happening nearby. Many are free and open to the public, and some require registration, so check websites for details. While some venues in Colorado now present drone or laser light shows to avoid potential wildfire danger, the events…
The Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) offers a countywide leadership program for anyone who lives or works in Douglas County. Called Leadership Douglas County (LDC), this year marks the 25th anniversary of the program. On June 4, the LDC class of 2025 celebrated graduation along with family, colleagues and alumni of the program at…
The weather was perfect for the annual Food Truck Frenzy that took place on Saturday, June 7 at Coyote Ridge Park. While enjoying live music from the band Fireball Daddy, families and friends chose from more than a dozen food trucks. Face painting and inflatable slides were hits with the kids and many local businesses…
On Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31, Castle Pines held its 36th Annual Community Garage Sale. More than an opportunity to clean out garages and make some cash, neighbors enjoyed connecting with each other. Some made super creative signage, and many hosted joint sales and spent the day together. Nearly 150 homes participated, with…
Amber is a fascinating mixed breed, a 10-year-old mashup of Labrador retriever and dachshund or what is called a “dachsador.” With a long body, low belly, short legs and a slight deformity to her front leg she was born with, Amber is perfect in her own way. At 35 pounds, she leans more towards a…
Allison Janedis is a registered dietician (RD) and on her way to becoming a physician’s assistant (PA). Her journey began while running for the cross-country team at Rock Canyon High School (RCHS). She explained, “In cross country and track, nutrition was crucial to athletic success.” An RD is someone who specializes in medical nutrition therapy…
Each season you see them bundled up braving the winter chill, smiling behind tables stacked high of Thin Mints and Samoas cookie boxes. Girl Scouts do it for fun but also to fund big goals. For two Sedalia Girl Scouts from Troop 67474, the result of eight years of cookie sales was an unforgettable trip…
Crossword brought to you by Allstate Insurance — Tammy Lopez (720) 733-1331 Across 1. Ornamental flower, for short 4. Wheel of Fortune purchase 7. ___ diagram (illustration used in logic) 11. Whitman’s dooryard bloomer 13. Best seller 14. Flaxlike fiber 15. Root out and destroy 17. Same 18. Ted or Tina 19. Changed 21.…
McKenna DeBever grew up in Highlands Ranch and is a two-time Olympic swimmer who has traveled all over the world, competing on the international stage. A swimmer with the Highlands Ranch Community Association Seahawks from age 5, McKenna, now 29 and living with her family in The Canyons neighborhood, said she feels “fulfilled and accomplished…
PicklePalooza II drew nearly 400 players and spectators to Founders Park in Castle Rock on June 7, a 52% increase in participation from last year’s fundraising event. Hosted by Paul’s Mystery Ship to End ALS, the tournament featured 78 teams competing in divisions 2.5–4.0. The event was host to friendly matches, food, music and awareness…
Dear Readers, I’d like to talk to you about a thing that happened to me while shopping and how it made me a more courteous and informed shopper. I’m talking about the queue with the impulse buying. You know, HomeGoods has the longest one, but they are common, and they come with a code of…
As major pollinators, bees are an important part of our ecosystems. Sandy Holcomb is passionate about honeybees. She keeps an apiary with multiple hives near Chatfield State Park. The apiary is surrounded by wildflowers and is protected by an electric fence to deter predators like skunks and bears. Sandy is a park ranger and through…
Watermelon is a refreshing part of summer meals and is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help protect cells and DNA from damage and reduce inflammation. They support eye health, promote heart health and potentially aid in muscle recovery. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy the cold crunch of a delicious bite of watermelon? Watermelon is…
If I was, for some odd reason, ever forced to choose just one indulgence food to enjoy for the rest of my life, it would be ice cream. Like, I wouldn’t even hesitate to commit to that as my chosen treat for the rest of my days. I loved it as a kid; I love…
Father and son Keith and Cashel Dugger spend their days around the game of baseball. Keith is in his 26th season with the Colorado Rockies, currently serving as the head athletic trainer for the team. Cashel plays starting catcher for the venerable UCLA Bruins baseball program; the team punched a ticket to Omaha to compete…
Valor Christian High School (Valor) ended its school year with accolades and honors in both girls golf and lacrosse, proving they can dig deep with determination and perseverance. At the 5A state championship golf tournament, sophomore Ella Scott made the final putt on the 18th hole for the win at Todd Creek Golf Club in…
Two educators who started work on the same day in 2004 at Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE) also retired on the same day in May, 21 years later. Jenn Miller and Danielle Peddie met as colleagues at BRE and have become lifelong friends, both ready for what comes next. “It is bittersweet but there are no…
The flag football teams for community-based Castle Pines Athletics (CPA) recently finished the Super Bowl season. The winners by age group include: Cowboys – 1st and 2nd graders, Commanders – 3rd and 4th graders, Texans – 5th and 6th graders. Information and photos provided by Castle Pines Athletics
There was an additional student from 80108 who signed a letter of intent to swim at the collegiate level at California Baptist University. It takes a great deal of discipline and hard work to balance academics and athletics, so we commend this student athlete from Lutheran High School. We reached out to all Douglas County…
Eighth graders from DCS Montessori recently traveled to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a learning adventure as part of the school’s mission “to enrich the world through positive and substantial contributions.” To prepare for the trip, the students learned about the Caribbean Island as part of a global studies elective class when they were seventh…
Serving sweet treats in a kind, inclusive space July is National Ice Cream Month. Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, located at 6340 South Parker Road in Aurora, is a place to celebrate. Owner Troy Knuckles beamed with joy when he spoke about his business. “Howdy Ice Cream means so much to me because it’s not just…
James Allan Holmes is the definition of a modern-day Renaissance man––a person who is skilled in multiple disciplines and has a broad base of knowledge. He is an artist, businessman and art collector. His days are fluid and he addresses them holistically, believing that every aspect of his life––professional work, personal interests, family, friends and…
Douglas County veterans now have access to local Veterans Affairs (VA) care. A ribbon cutting ceremony last month celebrated the grand opening of a new VA outpatient clinic at the corner of Prairie Hawk Drive and Dacoro Lane in Castle Rock. The clinic is ready to support the nearly 27,000 veterans in Douglas County, including…
On May 21, Douglas County Commissioner George Teal and Heroes Hall Foundation leadership unveiled the new sign marking the location of the Heroes Hall Complex, a 14,000-square-foot building that, when complete, will house the Douglas County Veterans Service Office, the Douglas County Veterans Monument Foundation, The American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars. In April,…
Many neighboring communities will soon see development activity on regional parks and recreational facilities. In 2022, more than 87% of Douglas County voters approved to extend the 0.17% sales and use tax that has helped preserve parks, trails, historic resources and open space throughout the county. A 2024 survey of citizens determined the community’s priorities…
In 2022 and in response to the national opioid crisis, many states began to receive opioid settlement funds paid for by the large companies involved in manufacturing, distributing and selling of opioids like codeine, morphine and oxycodone. The Colorado Opioid Abatement Council (COAC), created by the Department of Law in the Office of the Colorado…
The Castle Pines North Metro District (CPNMD) began its annual fire hydrant flushing program to maintain water quality and ensure the reliability of the water distribution system last month. This routine maintenance is expected to continue until late June or early July. Hydrant flushing plays a vital role in keeping the water system clean and…
On May 3, the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce held a paint recycling event, Recycle Paint in the Pines. The Chamber partnered with GreenSheen to collect the paint. Residents helped to keep 65,951 pounds of paint out of landfills. GreenSheen will combine, filter and process the recycled latex paint to make new paint in 18…
Most people know that homeowners associations (HOAs) place limits on homeowners, but did you know there are Colorado laws that limit what HOAs can do? The Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act (CCIOA) and other laws place oversight on what HOAs can require. For example, HOAs cannot prohibit the following: Display of a flag, sign, or…
Douglas County offers free electronics recycling to residents through December 30 at PedalPoint Lifecycle Solutions, 3251 Lewiston Street, Suite 10, Aurora. Services are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on occasional Saturdays, including June 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with some holiday closures. Participants need to register at…
If you are applying for a marriage license, first-time passport, or recording home and property documents, the Douglas County Recording Office has reopened its permanent location at 301 Wilcox Street in Castle Rock. The office was temporarily relocated in January so the permanent location could undergo necessary renovations. The updated office provides expanded customer service…
There is a special election on Tuesday, June 24, where Douglas County residents will vote on two items: 1) whether or not to form a Home Rule County Charter (HRCC) and 2) select 21 HRCC commission members. The candidates for Douglas County Districts 1, 2, 3 and At-Large will be listed on this month’s ballot.…
Since before she can remember, Chef Natalia Fragapane has been in love with cooking. Surrounded her whole life with women chefs—including grandmothers and sisters—she was in the kitchen cooking for loved ones by age 8. Today, she and her partner, Adrian Falero, are owners of the new restaurant, Alta Empanadas, located at 363 Village…
On May 7, the South Metro Denver Chamber (Chamber) hosted “The TANK” at the Lone Tree Arts Center. Inspired by a popular reality television show, the event brought the business and nonprofit sectors of the community together by showcasing nonprofits selected by the Chamber. Like the television show, the philanthropies had to pitch to a…
Logan and Nate Heflebower, sons of the family that opened Heflebower Funeral & Cremation Services, were raised understanding the importance of compassion, grace and dignity both within funeral services and the larger community. The brothers were inspired to open up their own funeral business together in 2020, but for animals: A Paws in Time (APT),…
College and professional athlete. Business owner. Mother. Wife. Coach. Philanthropist. These descriptions only scratch the surface of Wendy Ingraham, founder and executive director of Robin’s Nest Foundation, owner of Sky View Farm Equine Center (SVF) in Castle Rock and secretary on the Board of Directors for the Castle Pines Homes Association. Having grown up on…
If your teens have needed a math tutor along the way, chances are they have met Michelle Rafter. For 25 years, Michelle has helped thousands of kids from her home in HOA2. “I take pride in creating a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and working through challenges,” Michelle stated. Michelle…
The simple definition of “help” is to make it easier for someone by offering services or resources. The tagline for nonprofit Be the Good Ones (BTGO) says it all: “small needs and good deeds,” a focus to make meaningful impacts in even the slightest ways. The organization is led by three individuals and serves…
The Village Castle Pines Garden Club (VCPGC) Annual Fashion Show and Luncheon was a huge success on Friday, May 16. Eighty-nine members joined at the Hilton Denver Inverness for this grand finale of the fiscal year. Eight members modeled three outfits each, strutting down the runway to music selections that they chose themselves. The outfits…
Spring is in the air and the Village Castle Pines Garden Club (VCPGC) is busy planning activities for the summer. The club enjoys social activities, gardening together, educational programs and holding charitable fundraiser events for the community. The upcoming June 28 donation drive benefits the Help & Hope Center (H&H) in Castle Rock, which supports…
In May, members of 100 Women Who Care Douglas County (100WWCDC) gathered for an evening of networking, supporting good causes and to celebrate the organization’s second anniversary. At each quarterly meeting, this giving circle of women enjoys a sponsored dinner while learning about three, pre-vetted nonprofits from around the county. The women vote by secret…
The Womenade organization gathered for its spring fundraiser at the HOA2 clubhouse to support Sabrina, a single mom and lifelong resident and business owner in Castle Rock. Earlier this year, Sabrina was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a severe autoimmune disorder that attacks the nervous system, leading to paralysis. Sabrina is currently undergoing treatment, holding on…
We often see our wildlife neighbors in open spaces, walking along the streets, and even sometimes in our yards. Among those are the beautiful red foxes. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), foxes can be found in most places in the state, including Douglas County. Colorado is home to four species of foxes. Red…
Born in 1828 in Sligo, Ireland, Mary Jane Gallagher was the incorrigible child of a priest and a nun. Her father disowned her, when at 16, she took passage on a ship bound for Massachusetts as a nanny. Married a year later to James Montieth, Mary Jane bore four children. One, her namesake, died as…
On April 26 at the Douglas County Library – Castle Rock, Girl Scout Unit 652 met with Bin Blessed (BB), a Castle Pines-based nonprofit, to learn about and help BB’s 10-year beneficiary, There With Care (TWC). TWC helps families with critically ill children, neonatal intensive care unit babies, and teens facing a mental health crisis…
On April 23, the City of Castle Pines held its twice-yearly New Resident Welcome Party at The Ridge at Castle Pines. More than 50 new residents gathered to learn more about the city, the business community and chamber, and their local newspaper––all while enjoying complimentary drinks and refreshments with fellow new neighbors. A few lucky…
Guinea pigs have long been a favorite first pet for families; and still are, for good reason. They are small, lovable, furry friends—gentle, sociable and easy to care for. In December 2020, the Neira family—Amy, Nick, Gavin (19), Garrett (16) and Grant (12) of the Turquoise Terrace neighborhood, adopted American guinea pigs Gabe and…
If you are looking for something a little different to do this summer, and do not mind a bit of a drive, there are some fun, quirky festivals around Colorado that just might be the thing. Here are a few of them: The 51st Madam Lou Bunch Day In honor of the town’s most successful…