Castle Rock, CO November 2025 by City Lifestyle

When You Need Us Most

Thankful for Those Who Serve Others

Dear Readers,

November is a time for gratitude—a chance to slow down, reflect on what truly matters, and recognize the people and organizations that make our community stronger. Here at Castle Rock City Lifestyle, our annual Thankful Issue is one of my favorites because it captures the heart of who we are as a town: generous, compassionate, and deeply connected.

This month, we’re shining a light on some of the incredible local services that embody that spirit of giving. We’re thankful for the programs and volunteers who support our veterans, providing resources, companionship, and care to those who’ve given so much of themselves in service to our country. Their courage and sacrifice remind us daily of the importance of community and gratitude.

We’re also highlighting organizations dedicated to supporting those undergoing cancer treatment, offering comfort and hope during life’s most difficult seasons. From local nonprofits providing meals and emotional support, to individuals quietly lending a hand behind the scenes, these stories are a beautiful reminder that kindness is the most powerful medicine of all.

And, of course, we celebrate the many initiatives uplifting Douglas County youth—our next generation of leaders, creators, and dreamers. Whether through mentorship, education, or the arts, these efforts ensure our young people are seen, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

As we move into this season of thanks, I invite you to take a moment to recognize the good happening all around us. Gratitude doesn’t have to be grand—it can be as simple as thanking a neighbor, supporting a local cause, or spending time with those you love. When we come together in appreciation, our community grows even stronger.

So from all of us at Castle Rock City Lifestyle, thank you for being part of this journey with us. Your support allows us to continue telling the stories that connect, inspire, and remind us just how special this place we call home truly is.

With heartfelt thanks,

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Steve Hill | steve.hill@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Debbie Hill | debbie.hill@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kristen Gonzales

kristen.gonzales@kcrcopywriting.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Kristen Gonzales

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Castle Rock Headshots; Karen Conrad Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Crystal Cleaning

For more than 40 years, the Colorado Eye Consultants team has been caring for patients and changing lives.

Colorado Eye Consultants is committed to delivering compassionate and quality care in a safe and nurturing environment. Using the latest technologies and innovative practices, our doctors dedicate themselves to excellent outcomes…every time.

To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (303) 730-0404.

1501 West Mineral Avenue, Suite 100 Littleton, CO 80120 ColoradoEyeConsultants.com

Veteran Ribbon Homes Ribbon Cutting 2: Foss Swim School Ribbon Cutting 3-5: Oktoberfest

CASTLE ROCK HEADSHOTS

JOHN MANKA

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6: Downtown Cruiser Ride 7: Have you met the High 5 Bear? 8: The Brinkerhoff Ribbon Cutting

The Brinkerhoff and Bar Hummingbird Opened in Early October

Perched high above Castle Rock, The Brinkerhoff is inspired by the colonial architecture of Mexico and the vibrant energy of Mexico City. The menu highlights prime steaks, sushi featuring line-caught tuna and fish flown in daily, and cocktails crafted with house-aged barrel tequila. Each element chosen with care to create a dining experience that is timeless and memorable. An open kitchen, artisan details, and sweeping mountain views create an atmosphere both transportive and inviting.

Black Ties and Tails

Second annual graduation gala event is coming this November. This is a black tie elevated event where the year’s graduating teams will get to cross the stage, receive their diplomas, and demonstrate the hard work they’ve dedicated to becoming a veteran service dog team.

Trifecta Sports Bar, Grill and Game Room Now Open

Trifecta Sports Bar, Grill, and Game Room was born from the shared passion and vision of its operating owners, Greg Wischmann, Caleb Lau, and award-winning Chef Kendall Ivy. They envisioned a place where locals could enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, delicious meals, and a variety of entertainment options, all under one roof. Thus, the concept of Trifecta was conceived, aiming to be the ultimate hangout spot for sports enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

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Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community.

Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction

Shelter Dogs to Service Dogs

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN GONZALES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

PAWS Justice, PAWS BamBam, PAWS Sarge

PAWS Bret

General William Tecumseh Sherman once said, “War is hell.” For veteran Michael Connors, the hellish part extends far beyond the war itself. Acclimating back to society after seeing, hearing, and smelling the horrors of war causes trauma that cannot be undone.

When he was injured overseas, Michael recovered at Walter Reed. A dog program within the hospital changed his trajectory when a girl kept asking him to pet the service dog she managed.

“She came in and said, ‘I’m not leaving until you touch the dog,’” he explains. “I was like, fine. You happy now? She said yep, and she left, and that was the first night in 45 days that I slept more than two hours. I woke up the next day and I said, ‘Someone go find me the girl with the dog.’”

After that, Michael worked with dogs through an occupational therapy program for veterans, teaching service dogs in training basic commands. There he would find Megan, the dog who would save his life when he was at his lowest.

“She was a yellow lab,” Michael explains. “I brought her to my room. I spent a couple of hours with her, and then I finally just hit that point where I was like, all right, I’m done…the dog actually climbed on the bed onto me… and I just crumbled into the dog.”

He goes on, “That dog is the only reason that any of this exists. It’s the only reason I’m still on this planet.”

Michael realized that dogs have a sense of helping, and other veterans needed that too.

One veteran suicide is too many, and he started the ConnorsK9P.A.W.S. non-profit to help veterans get their lives back. Over the last four years, he has helped 47 veterans by training service dogs that have become saviors for veterans.

The ConnorsK9-P.A.W.S.’ mission is simple: save as many veterans as possible. They achieve this by identifying veterans through an intensive application process, which includes background checks, letters of recommendation, and a physician’s sign-off. Any veteran who has been either honorably, generally, or medically retired or discharged is eligible for the program. Once all that is done, there is an interview, and if approved, Michael finds a dog under two years old through local rescues to begin training with the veteran.

“From that point, we move forward into how is this going to work for you?” Michael says. “Veterans will have two private trainings with me every month, and will have one group training with us every month.”

CONTINUED >

PAWS Gunner

PAWS Jarvis

He continues, “The group training is designed to get veterans around other veterans who are also in the same process. If I hand you a dog and it’s brand new, you’re gonna get frustrated. If I hand you a dog and it’s brand new and you’re frustrated, but I put you with other veterans who literally just went through it, they bounce things off each other and they build the camaraderie back.”

The service dog accompanies the veteran everywhere, ensuring they can handle any situation, while prioritizing the veteran’s care at all times. The training typically takes 12-18 months, and the process costs approximately $25,000 per dog, which includes training, veterinary visits, food, and other expenses.

There are plenty of veterans who need help, but financing the dogs that can support them is crucial.

“If we have a $100,000 a year budget and I’m about to graduate eight dogs, and if we did recreation therapy, we’re at $202,000,” Michael explains. “That gap right now is all coming from me. My business [Connors K9 Training] is funding the non-profit.”

Monetary donations are the most effective way to support ConnorsK9-PA.W.S. Supporting local events is a close second.

THE CONNORSK9-P.A.W.S.’ MISSION IS SIMPLE:

save as many veterans as possible. They achieve this by identifying veterans through an intensive application process, which includes background checks, letters of recommendation, and a physician’s sign-off. Any veteran who has been either honorably, generally, or medically retired or discharged is eligible for the program.

CRPD / PAWS Buddy and DCSO / PAWS Olive

PAWS Sarge, PAWS Bret, PAWS Gunner, PAWS Bear, PAWS Star

PAWS Gunner

“That dog is the only reason that any of this exists. It’s the only reason I’m still on this planet.”

- Michael Connors

“When these veterans who have spent all this time going through trauma in the military and then come to these events where it’s about them recovering and getting the dogs, having the community support is monumental,” Michael explains.

“105 West Brewing Company has been a massive supporter of P.A.W.S.,” he continues. “Every May, we are their charity of the month, and they donate all tips left to P.A.W.S. at the end of the month.”

This month, P.A.W.S. will honor eight dogs who have graduated from the program at a black-tie event for veterans and their partners.

“So the first four, who get to come in, will be the graduates from last year who just graduated and show they’re still working and supporting. Then the eight from this year will come in one at a time and go up on stage to get their graduation diplomas,” Michael relays proudly. “We’re doing it in a past, present, future mindset of a graduation.”

With donations, community support, and sponsors, the future of ConnorsK9-P.A.W.S. looks brighter than ever, with the primary goal always at the forefront: saving veterans through the healing power of a dog.

DCSO / PAWS Leo

ADVENTHEALTH CASTLE ROCK’S

NEW CANCER CENTER

A BEAUTIFUL NEW SPACE TREATING CANCER PATIENTS OPENS SOON FOR OUR CASTLE ROCK COMMUNITY

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN GONZALES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

For cancer survivors, Melissa Rufenacht and Marcy Blair, the new cancer center at AdventHealth Castle Rock is a Godsend for the local community.

“Unless you have been diagnosed with cancer, you don’t know there is no cancer center,” Marcy, the chairman of the foundation for AdventHealth Castle Rock, states. “You have to get in your car and drive.”

“When you have to have chemo, you need to have someone take you, and possibly have someone else pick up your kids, all when you’re not feeling well,” Marcy continues.

When asked three and a half years ago to chair the fundraising, Melissa says, “I’ve never chaired a $14 million campaign, but let’s do this! My heart is here in Castle Rock, and I want to take care of people in our community.”

Additionally, the Rock of Hope Gala in February, sponsored by AdventHealth Castle Rock, which raised funds for the cancer center, exceeded all expectations.

“The energy of the night and people coming together, I think that’s why it was so successful,” Melissa explains. “When they asked who in the room is either going through cancer or is a cancer survivor, stand up, and then who has a family member that’s going through it, and literally everyone was standing.”

The Schraders, a wonderful local family from Castle Rock, made a substantial donation to the cause after learning about this endeavor. Their name is proudly emblazoned on the building, showcasing their beautiful generosity to the community.

“I’VE NEVER CHAIRED A $14 MILLION CAMPAIGN, BUT LET’S DO THIS!"

“The Douglas County commissioners gave us $1 million at the gala, and the Schraders had put it out there that they would pledge $1 million more if someone would match,” Marcy recalls. “They brought up this big fake check for the picture…it was fabulous!”

Now, with $11 million towards their $14 million goal, the third floor of the new AdventHealth Castle Rock building is on track to be finished by year end, supporting cancers such as breast, prostate, lung, and more. It wasn’t easy to get where they are, as some people believed they wouldn’t gain enough support for the cause.

“We reached out to people and said, Do you think this campaign is possible? Do you

think the community will rally to raise the $14 million to contribute to the campaign?” Melissa remembers. “I had a woman come up to me and say that she didn’t think so, and she started crying because we were over halfway at that point.”

Melissa and Marcy took it all in stride, and the money continued to flow in from all across the area.

“We’re over 10.5 million now,” Marcy says proudly. “I don’t know where the next $3.5 million is going to come from, but we didn’t know where the first $10.5 million was going to come from.”

She goes on to say, “We’re a very generous community, and when people really hear the stories and find out the need,

there isn’t anyone who hasn’t been touched by cancer.”

From the third floor, individual infusion bays backing onto windows that showcase the mountains, to a room where the windows open and the sun shines in for patients waiting for treatment or just receiving it, to the future garden-level radiation center, this cancer center’s impact will be felt far and wide.

The hope is that by February 2026, the Rock of Hope Gala will be a celebration party marking AdventHealth Castle Rock’s achievement of reaching $14 million.

Reflecting on this amazing endeavor, Marcy says, “Anything you can do for families, whether the journey is going to have a successful outcome or sometimes a heartache, surround them and keep them close to their community and the people who love them.”

H O P E

Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

CHRISTMAS SHINES BRIGHT

ARTICLE BY KARA WITHEROW PHOTOGRAPHY BY GAYLORD HOTELS

BRIGHTEST AT GAYLORD ROCKIES

The best Christmas memories don’t have to be made far from home. Just a quick drive from Denver, Gaylord Rockies Resort in Aurora will soon turn into a winter wonderland where families can slow down, laugh together, and make new traditions. From November 24, 2025, through January 2, 2026, the resort comes alive with millions of twinkling lights, towering Christmas trees, festive music, and seasonal treats that dazzle, delight, and set the perfect holiday scene.

ICE! FEATURING DR. SEUSS’ “HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS!”

At the heart of So Much Christmas at Gaylord Rockies Resort is ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole

Christmas!” The beloved children’s book is brought to life with more than 2 million pounds of hand-carved, boldly colored ice. Guests can wander through iconic scenes, marvel at sculptures nearly 30 feet tall, and zoom down ice slices, all while staying warm in parkas provided by the resort. Journeying through the attraction, guests will see stunning ice carvings of familiar characters and scenes, including the grumpy Grinch’s lair, Who-ville, the Grinch carving roast beast, and 12-foot ice statues of the Grinch.

SO MUCH CHRISTMAS

Beyond ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!,” Gaylord Rockies Resort offers a winter wonderland of festive activities for the whole family.

Santa

Brave the indoor four-lane snow tubing hill for a thrilling ride, craft and decorate gingerbread creations, solve riddles on a Grinchy scavenger hunt, or step inside Santa’s workshop to meet the man in red himself. After a day filled with Christmas cheer, linger a little longer over an exceptional meal. At Old Hickory Steakhouse, savor timeless cuts in an elegant setting. Garden + Grain Seasonal Kitchen showcases fresh, local ingredients, and Copper Table tempts with authentic Colorado cuisine and traditional flavors. As the day winds down, enjoy an evening stroll through the glowing, glittering Grand Lodge. This year, skip the travel stress and give your family the greatest gift of all: time together. With so much to see and do, Gaylord Rockies Resort is the ultimate destination for creating holiday traditions and making memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Explore overnight packages, ticket bundles, and special offers at ChristmasatGaylordRockies.com, and make this holiday season one your family will never forget.

This Christmas, Gaylord Rockies Resort transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling lights, festive fun, and ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”

Gaylord on the Rockies Offers a Beautiful Winter Wonderland Getaway

Gaylord Rockies Resort

ICE! Featuring the Grinch

Personalized Care At Every Visit

As the only familyowned veterinary clinic in Castle Rock we treat your pets like a part of our family because they are an important part of yours!

Providing comprehensive services from preventative care to complex surgeries, we are here for all stages of your pet’s life!

NOVEMBER 2025

MID NOVEMBER 2025

Homegrown Tap & Dough Opening December

221 Wilcox St, Castle Rock, CO 80104

Homegrown Tap & Dough offers an approachable Italian restaurant experience that celebrates Colorado’s landscapes and ingredients. What began with hand-tossed pizza has grown to include Italian favorites. like Pepperoni Rolls, Chicken Parmesan and Colorado-inspired sandwiches. Each location feels “quintessentially Colorado,” with gondolas from ski resorts, stone fireplaces, and artifacts honoring local history. With Homegrown Tap & Dough Castle Rock opening Fall 2025.

NOVEMBER 8TH

Annual Yuletide Bazaar

The Parker Fieldhouse, 18700 Plaza Drive, Parker, CO 80134 | 9:00 AM

This year, we are proud to celebrate America 250 / Colorado 150 with a day full of holiday cheer and community spirit. The event will feature:

• Over 100+ crafters with handmade creations

• Fresh baked goods and treats

• Performances by school choirs singing Christmas carols

• An art contest

• Visits from Mr. & Mrs. Claus and Buddy the Elf

NOVEMBER 8TH

Pie Bake-Off

Millhouse, 1381 W. Plum Creek Parkway Castle Rock, CO 80109 | 10:30 AM

It's that festive time of year when families gather around to enjoy good company, hearty food, and most importantly, pie! Do you have what it takes

to rise to the occasion? Don't be afraid to take whisks in the Town's pie-baking competition. Don't have baking skills? Come to the competition and try the pies by the slice free of charge.

NOVEMBER 13TH

Black Ties and Tails Event

Union American Bistro, 3 Wilcox St, Castle Rock, Colorado | 5:00 PM

The second annual graduation gala event is coming this November. This is a black tie elevated event where the year's graduating teams will get to cross the stage, receive their diplomas, and demonstrate the hard work they've dedicated to becoming a veteran service dog team.

For more information visit connorsk9paws.org

NOVEMBER 22ND

Castle Rock Starlighting

Downtown Castle Rock | 2:00 PM

An annual holiday tradition in Castle Rock since 1936.

Step into a Norman Rockwell scene at Starlighting, an annual traditional community ceremony that includes lighting the star on top of Castle Rock followed by a fireworks display. Festivities include caroling, dancing, visiting with Santa Claus, kids activities, nonprofit booths, food vendors, hot chocolate and the iconic chili supper at the Firehouse.

DECEMBER 5TH

Castle Pines Tree Lighting

The Ridge Golf Course 1414 Castle Pines Pkwy Castle Pines, CO 80108 | 5:00 PM

Join us for the Tree Lighting Celebration to kick off the Winter Wonderland series of events!

• Meet and greet Santa and his reindeer, take photos, and share your holiday wishes

• Hop on an enchanting train ride

• Stroll through a magical path lined with sweet surprises and festive decorations

• Bring your friends, family, and neighbors to share in this spirited event!