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Articles by Elean Gersack
High school student makes magic
Sixteen-year-old Rock Canyon High School junior Liam Abner recently performed on Penn & Teller: Fool Us, a magic competition television show judged by two venerable magicians and illusionists. The episode aired on February 21 on the CW Network. According to Liam, the producers, staff and entirety of the production were all amazing and the crew treated him with the utmost respect and care throughout the week.
Magpie Art Center in Sedalia opens in April
At 4138 Rio Grande Avenue, just over the second set of train tracks in downtown Sedalia, sits a quaint property once owned and lived in by Rosemary Sandell, a well-known Sedalian. Cherri LaMarr purchased the home about two years ago and has renovated it into the Magpie Art Center (MAC). The grand opening is planned for Apri1 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cherri, director of the MAC, has an art and graphic design background and has lived in the Indian Creek area of Sedalia for 12 years.
Rescue, rehab and adoption through Soul Dog Rescue
Soul Dog Rescue (SDR) is a nonprofit that began in 2010 with a mission to alleviate animal suffering and address overpopulation on Native American reservations in the Four Corners region—Colorado, Arizona, Utah and New Mexico.
Coach inspires at her alma mater
A former Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) student, poms team member and school newspaper writer, Paige Cassidy is the school’s assistant varsity poms coach. Paige graduated RCHS in 2010 and returned to coach in 2014, following her graduation from CU Boulder. Paige loves being part of her students’ lives, both in and out of the gymnasium. Coaching a two-season sport with summer training, she spends most of the year at the school.
Celebrating heart month with heart health
February is heart month, so it is the perfect time to celebrate nonprofit South Denver Heart Center Foundation (SDHCF) and its mission to provide health and cardiac education to medical professionals and community members. South Denver Cardiology Associates (SDCA) has been part of the community for the past 51 years. The state-of-the-art health and wellness facility in Littleton is one of the largest independent medical practices in Colorado.
Denver Restaurant Week March 7-16
Save room for plenty of food in March. This year’s Denver Restaurant Week (DRW) is March 7-16. The annual event is now in its 21st year. The dining scene across the metro area has blossomed extensively and has become an eating destination that now includes Michelin-starred restaurants and James Beard Award-winning chefs. Celebrate the week by trying new bites and new places around town with special menus at affordable price points.
Castle Pines earns community award
In October, Castle Pines was one of ten communities honored by Communities of Excellence 2026 (COE26), a nonprofit organization that hosts a learning collaborative of communities across the country. COE26 trains communities in the Baldrige-based Communities of Excellence framework, which provides opportunities for communities to work together, share successes, challenges, ideas and best practices. This includes social impact, collaborative strategic goal setting and resident engagement.
Nonprofits enrich our community
As the year ends, we are reflecting on the hopefulness that is all around us. In 2024, we featured 11 nonprofits in our Angels Among Us segment. These organizations, and the people who serve them, provide an incredible impact to our community and beyond. Special thanks to all for taking time to visit and allowing The Castle Pines Connection to share their inspirational stories.
Boy meets girl turns into happily ever after
From 1999 to 2002, Jeremy Gamble and Nicole Tobey were back door neighbors in HOA1. Jeremy was 5 and Nicole was 6 when they first met. As youngsters, the two frequented each other’s homes and have great memories of playing PlayStation with Nicole’s siblings, looking at the stars through her family’s telescope, and playing with toy cars. In 2002, the two lost touch when Nicole and her family moved to another house in the neighborhood.
The Castle Pines Connection
If you are wondering where to vote in the upcoming 2024 General Election, drop off your ballots at a ballot drop box location or go to a polling location to stand in line; both options by 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 5. Most 80108-ers will drop their ballot at the drop box behind the Douglas County Library (DCL) – Castle Pines at 360 Village Square Lane.
Colorado Gives Day is December 10
Tuesday, December 10 is Colorado Gives Day (CGD), a day to celebrate and support Colorado nonprofits. Although year-round giving is important and easy, CGD remains an annual tradition of Coloradans as a year-end push to donate to important causes. The CGD voice provides a platform to spread awareness for all types and sizes of nonprofits. As of October 1, there were 263 Douglas County nonprofits registered with CGD.
The Castle Pines Connection
The League of Women Voters (LWV) was started in 1920 by leaders of the women’s suffrage movement as a nonpartisan, activist, grassroots organization believing voters play a critical role in democracy. Today, there are more than 700 leagues across the country, with a local chapter here, the League of Women Voters of Arapahoe and Douglas Counties (LWVADC). It is one of 18 leagues in Colorado.
The Castle Cup is a seriously good time
A men’s group has been enjoying an annual day of competition since 2018. It is called The Castle Cup. According to Mark Voss, an unofficial committee member and organizer of The Castle Cup, it started as a way to celebrate the end of the Village men’s 4.0 tennis team season. Tennis, golf and cocktails make up the triathlon day. Random partners are paired for doubles tennis and two-man scramble golf pairings make up the competition. The day is capped off with an evening awards ceremony.
The Castle Pines Connection
Emily Davenport is passionate about wildlife. As a certified wildlife rehabilitator with nearly two decades of veterinary experience, she recognizes the importance of having relationships with others in her field. In 2017, she founded the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance (RMWA) to foster professional collaboration. In 2022, she took a big risk and took it a step further.
The Castle Pines Connection
The arts are about to take full bloom in Castle Rock thanks to the Tri Arts Project (TAP). Initially established in 2022 as Rock the Arts, TAP used 2023 to forge a full-fledged effort to grow the nonprofit through volunteers and funds. TAP fosters a love of the arts by bringing people together who are passionate about teaching, learning and growing creatively – with a vision of making Castle Rock a visual arts hub. The organization now has 10 board members and more than 15 additional volunteers.
Village tennis team made districts
Tennis is a true passion in The Village at Castle Pines, and when a team makes it to districts, it is cause for celebration. “Go, Village People!” shared captain Michael Shorts with his tennis team. In July, the Village at Castle Pines Men’s 55 & Over, 7.0 doubles tennis team closed out the season with a United States Tennis Association district playoff run. The team plays three lines of doubles. Each line has two players with individual ratings that combined equal 7.0 or less.
The Castle Pines Connection
“Noonan, Noonan … miss it, mmmiss it.” This famous crowd whisper and roar surrounded the 18th hole putt that made caddie Danny Noonan the big winner in the 1980 film and timeless cult classic, Caddyshack. In anticipation of the BMW Championship this month, let’s reminisce about this golf movie. The “I’m Alright” theme song from Kenny Loggins and a dancing gopher are the backdrops for the hilarious comedy set at the fictitious Bushwood Country Club.
Pitchers & Patriots event planned for August 10
On Saturday, August 10, the fourth annual Pitchers and Patriots: Honoring the Brave (Pitchers & Patriots) cocktail hour will be hosted at Haven in the Pines from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. This local nonprofit supports and honors veterans; this year the event proceeds will go to Blue Angel Foundation, the SEAL Legacy Foundation and Project Sanctuary.
Keeping wildlife wild and safe
Long before our community existed, wildlife lived and thrived in the picturesque landscape that now encompasses our homes, businesses and roadways. Knowing how to best appreciate and care for wildlife is important in creating harmony for our people, pets and the beautiful fauna. With summer in full swing, many young animals are exploring for the first time, increasing encounters with humans.
The Castle Pines Connection
Service. Honor. Sacrifice. Emotions swell when thinking about veterans and all they have given for our freedom. A local nonprofit, Rocky Mountain Honor Flight (RMHF), has been taking vets to Washington, D.C. since 2007 to provide a chance to see firsthand the memorials that recognize their service. It is a full-circle moment for those who fought for our country and are still here to remember.
Sedalia’s historic museum and gardens
In the quaint town of Sedalia sits a historic little building and grounds, the Sedalia Museum and Gardens (SMG). Getting to know this special place is like taking a step back in time. Save the date for this year’s garden sale, Saturday, May 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at 4037 N. Platte Avenue. According to Carole Williams, who is the last, active founding museum member, the impetus of SMG began with a long-time Sedalia resident Barbara Belfield Machann.
The answer to cancer might be walking right next to you
Just to our north at Colorado State University’s Flint Animal Cancer Center (FACC), researchers are on a mission to conquer cancer in all species and believe cures for pets could work for humans as well. The nonprofit One Cure was founded in 2011 to spread the word about FACC and support important clinical trials and comparative oncology research. “One Cure is founded on the principle that cancer is cancer. Pets and people get the same kind of cancer. One cancer.
The Castle Pines Connection
Summer is in sight, so now is the time to help your kids blossom by signing up for camps. Whether it is one day, one week or more, kids love exploring during the downtime of summer. Here are a few fun options, but remember, where there is one, there are many. Enjoy. Audience of One Calling all 5- to 18-year-olds who are interested in theater. Spend the days learning musical theater skills while rehearsing, playing theater games, participating in outdoor activities and making new friends.
Preserving land for generations to come
The Douglas Land Conservancy (DLC) was established by community members in 1987 over concerns about unsustainable growth. Since then, the nonprofit organization has protected nearly 27,000 acres of wildlife habitat, working ranches, wetlands, clean water and scenic views across Douglas, Elbert and Jefferson Counties by way of conservation easement – the first being Big D Meadow at Perry Park in Larkspur.
Spring activities and sports for kids
Spring is around the corner, so now is the time to register kids for sports and other extra-curricular activities. Below is a quick reference guide to some near-by options. Boutique Dance Academy Little ones will find their moves at Boutique Dance Academy in Castle Rock, where the art of dance empowers students with self-esteem, discipline, responsibility, teamwork, respect, commitment and passion. Learn more at www.boutiquedanceacademy.com.
The Castle Pines Connection
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 of science, a gift from his engineering grandfather. He grew up in the Greenbriar neighborhood and completed kindergarten through eighth grade at AA before starting at RCHS.
Mental health support and advocacy for our heroes
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 thoughts, marriage and family relationship issues, substance abuse and more.
Twenty years of tasting Denver’s culinary delights
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, $35, $45 and $55 for multi-course meals. DRW aims to highlight Denver’s culinary landscape by helping increase business and encourage new patrons across establishments.
The power of companionship in healing
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 Rico – including right here in Castle Pines.
Tall Tales Ranch groundbreaking planned for this summer
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 with Shea Homes and HomeAid Colorado to develop this unique life-sharing community.
Mid-year school supply boost
The Foundation for Douglas County Schools will once again host a mid-year supply drive for teachers. The Lend A Hand School Supply Drive will take place during the month of January. This annual event is a great way to support area teachers by helping replenish classroom supplies for the second half of the year. More than 110 teachers benefited from the event last year.
The Castle Pines Connection
Evelyn Razem is a teen who is all heart.A sophomore at Rock Canyon High School, she has a learner’s permit and a passion for giving back and helping others. Each week, she volunteers at her old stomping grounds, DCS Montessori School (DCSM), to teach youngsters how to crochet during the after-school specials program.She has been crocheting for more than 10 years and learned the art in this very same after-school class.
Strength and hope are abundant!
As 2023 comes to a close, we reflect on the strength and hope that is all around us.For the past seven years, our Angels Among Us segment has featured nonprofits and people who are using their voices and abilities to bring incredible impacts to the community and beyond.This year, we featured 12 stories.Thank you to each of these organizations for visiting with us and allowing us to share their purpose and missions.These heroes and champions of cause inspire so many, and for that, we at The...
The Castle Pines Connection
It was a clean sweep last month at the Continental League for the Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) spirit teams.Varsity cheer, junior varsity coed cheer, varsity poms and junior varsity poms all finished in first place. The Continental League consists of 11 high schools – Castle View, Chaparral, Douglas County, Heritage, Highlands Ranch, Legend, Mountain Vista, Ponderosa, Regis, RCHS and Thunder Ridge.
Honoring legacy through Folds of Honor
Honor their sacrifice by honoring their legacy.That is the beautiful mission of Folds of Honor (FOH), a national nonprofit organization started by Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, dedicated to providing educational assistance to dependents of those who sacrificed so much.
Paul Dannels’ legacy is a beautiful one
Friends, family, neighbors and the community came out to celebrate the legacy of Paul Dannels on September 24 for the fourth annual walk to benefit Paul’s Mystery Ship to End ALS.
Restoration for human trafficking victims
Ten years ago, Sedalia resident Jonathan Spencer learned more people are enslaved today than at any other time in history.There are an estimated 40 million people trapped in various forms of trafficking around the world.
A sanctuary for unwanted farm animals
About 18 miles southwest of Castle Pines, sits The Random Ranch (TRR), a beautiful place for animals of all kinds to live out their remaining years in glorious form.Amy Bennett founded TRR 12 years ago.This working farm was not intended to be an animal sanctuary, but it accidentally became one.
XDrive Classic scores big again in 2024
On Monday, July 31, a sold-out crowd teed up for the 9th annual XDrive Classic Golf Tournament at The Club at Pradera in Parker.The event raises awareness for Fragile X Syndrome, a leading cause of autism, and raises money for The Joshua School (TJS) and Treeline Pass (TLP).These two impactful organizations help children and adults with disabilities.This year’s event raised more than $50,000.
The Castle Pines Connection
Back in the day, Chiara Robinson spent plenty of time roaming the great outdoors with her younger brothers and HOA1 neighborhood friends.The Castle Pines Storm swim team, organized in part by her family, was the place she found her love of swimming, and her brothers, Cai and Cooper, discovered their preference for frozen water (and ultimately the game of ice hockey).
Join 100 women who care on August 7
Suzanne Wexler has put her stamp on Douglas County and Colorado as a leading champion of help and hope.She originally hails from New York but lived in Chicago for 22 years where she raised her family, was the director of a homeless shelter, a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), and huge supporter of the elderly and schools.‑ Since landing in Parker five years ago, she has continued her helpful and caring ways including starting the Lunch Bunch – a collective movement of 125+ volunteers...
Guys Who Give in Douglas County
On the second Wednesday of the second month of each quarter, a group of guys meet at Lone Tree Brewing Company to grab a beer and combine forces to support local charities.Guys, mark your calendars and join the next meeting on Wednesday, August 9.It is open to all.
Personal journey propels passion
From the beginning, Cayden Bro’s journey has been filled with compassion and determination.He and his family moved to Castle Pines just blocks away from Buffalo Ridge Elementary School (BRE) when he was 2 years old.
RCHS scientist wins top honors
Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) rising senior, Aditi Avinash, is a science star in the making. In May, Avinash earned top honors at Regeneron’s International Science and Engineering Fair in Dallas, Texas.Her research and findings for Model Validation and Preclinical Testing of Digestive Enzymes for Gluten Breakdown: A Move to Cure Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease, won first place out of more than 80 fellow competitor submissions in the Translational Medical Science category.
The gift of life is calling
Paul Carpenter is an 11-year-old boy who just finished fifth grade at Flagstone Elementary School in Castle Rock. What you see on the outside is a super happy and fun child who everyone adores. But, behind those amazing brown eyes, is a boy who was not expected to survive after birth and who has faced a multitude of health challenges throughout his lifetime. Right now, Paul needs a new kidney. He and his family are desperate to find a living donor who has “B” or “O” type blood.
OU grad is dedicated to women’s health
Kylie Hutchison moved to Castle Pines when she was 12 years old. She attended Rocky Heights Middle School and graduated from Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) in 2019. On May 12th, she graduated from the University of Oklahoma (OU) with a degree in microbiology and minors in chemistry and medical humanities. While at RCHS, Hutchison played volleyball and captained the team during freshman, sophomore and junior years. Her favorite class was biotechnology and its independent-study component.
Chasing life with the Peace Corps
Harry Pearson grew up in the Hidden Pointe neighborhood with his mom, dad, two brothers and one sister. His family has always been full of independence, starting with his dad who left Australia at age 23 to follow his dreams and find his way. His mom has a similar story, and now each of the Pearson children is following in the same footsteps, chasing life wherever it takes them.
Women’s Bean Project provides stepping stones for a fresh start
Located in Denver near I-25 and Alameda sits a very special place, called Women’s Bean Project (WBP). For 34 years, this nonprofit organization has been helping women create a fresh start with self-sufficiency through social enterprise. The founder of WBP, Jossy Eyre, was volunteering at a daytime women’s shelter in the late 1980s as part of her master’s degree in social work program.
Loving life in Washington, D.C.
These days, Piper Melbye soaks in the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C. (D.C.) and is loving her busy life there. Back in 2016, Melbye graduated from Rock Canyon High School after growing up from the eighth grade on in The Village at Castle Pines. Melbye was a competitive and high school cheerleader as well as a high school golfer and is the youngest of three siblings.
The Castle Pines Connection
March is gender equality month, so fittingly this month’s Angels Among Us features Together Women Rise (RISE), whose mission is to cultivate the collective power of community to achieve global gender equality. RISE is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. What started as a collective giving circle among a group of friends has blossomed into an organization with 380 chapters across the country, including 22 in Colorado, with hopes of adding more.
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