HRCA June 2024 Newsletter

JUNE 2024

15 Years of the Backcountry Wilderness Area

Prior to Mission Viejo starting development in Highlands Ranch in 1981, it was decided that twothirds of the new, planned community would be made into homes, businesses and interwoven green spaces. The final third—8,200 acres— would be set aside as a conservation property and called OSCA (Open Space Conservation Area) through the 80s, 90s and 2000s until the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) renamed the property, the Backcountry Wilderness Area of Highlands Ranch. In the OSCA Plan, the HRCA would assume ownership and management of the Backcountry Wilderness Area once the community reached 90 percent buildout. Officially, that happened in 2009; 15 years ago last month! (Continued on page 11.)

Art Encounters

The new season of Art Encounters is in full swing! From June 2024 to May 2025, nine new sculptures will be on display in Highlands Ranch. All pieces are available for purchase. The public is encouraged to visit each piece of art and vote for their favorite. Visit HRCAonline.org/CAA for all the details. Stayed tuned for more information on this exciting program and be on the lookout for new pieces popping up around the community.

Contacts

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

303.471.8958

President: Monica Wasden

Vice President: Dan DeBacco

Vice President: Todd Landgrave

Treasurer: Leo Stegman

Secratary: Jim Allen

EASTRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

303.471.8858

9568 University Blvd.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES

303.471.8958

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

NORTHRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

303.471.8950

8800 Broadway

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

SOUTHRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

303.471.7020

4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

WESTRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

720.348.8202

9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

A Message from the GM

Empowering Dreams: HRCA’s 2024 Community Scholarship Fund Recipients

In the spirit of celebration and community upliftment, we are delighted to share the heartwarming story of HRCA’s 2024 Community Scholarship Fund recipients. This year’s ceremony, held on Tuesday, May 21, at the Wildcat Auditorium, was a testament to the unwavering commitment of our community to empower the next generation.

For more than two decades, the Highlands Ranch Community Scholarship Fund (HRCSF) has been a beacon of hope for students pursuing higher education.

Over the last several years the fund has grown with special thanks to the generous contributions of our community members and the annual Highlands Ranch Beer Festival.

What sets HRCSF apart is its dedication to inclusivity. Beyond academic merit, the fund extends support to students with special needs, ensuring that every member of our community has access to the opportunities they deserve. The Therapeutic Recreation department has been a cornerstone of support for families touched by special needs for over 25 years. Through their innovative programs and unwavering dedication, they have enriched the lives of countless individuals within our community. Thanks to a unique collaboration with HRCSF, students with special needs receive the financial assistance they need to participate in life-enriching programs, furthering their personal growth and development.

As we reflect on the success of this year’s scholarship recipients, we are reminded of the transformative power of education and community support. Each scholarship awarded represents a dream fulfilled, a future brightened and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the recipients of the 2024 Community Scholarship Fund. Your achievements are a source of inspiration to us all, and we cannot wait to see the incredible impact you will continue to make on our community and beyond.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the success of HRCSF, whether through donations, volunteerism or simply by being a part of our vibrant community. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Mike Bailey HRCA General Manager

2024 HRCSF Recipients

Congratulations to the recipients of the Highlands Ranch Community Scholarship Fund (HRCSF) for 2024. The applicant pool demonstrated the exceptional students we have within our community. The CSF is a 501(c)3 organization formed to provide post-secondary education scholarships for graduating seniors residing in Highlands Ranch, as well as scholarships to individuals with special needs assistance to join specialized programming.

Abby Porterfield

Highlands Ranch High School

Intended study: Nursing

Alexandra Gustafson

Rock Canyon High School

Intended study: Aviation

Ariella Jeffrey

Highlands Ranch High School

Intended study: Biological sciences, pre-med

Ava Luke

Mountain Vista High School

Intended study: Criminal justice

Cayden Lanziner

Rock Canyon High School

Intended study: Mechanical engineering

Chase Thompson

Mountain Vista High School

Intended study: Business marketing

Claire Jackson

Thunder Ridge High School

Intended study: Biology

Courtney Campbell

Rock Canyon High School

Intended study: Neurosciences

Courtney Steele

Mountain Vista High School

Intended study: Education

Ethan Johnson

Thunder Ridge High School

Intended study: Natural resources

Gabriel Flexter

Highlands Ranch High School

Intended study: Finance

Grace Roscoe

Mountain Vista High School

Intended study: Sports management

Grayson Witt

Mountain Vista High School

Intended study: Mechanical engineering

Holly Rider

Highlands Ranch High School

Intended study: Kinesiology

Isabelle Meyer

Thunder Ridge High School

Intended study: Hospitality

Jameson Tokle

Mountain Vista High School

Intended study: Architecture

Kaitlyn Holmberg

Thunder Ridge High School

Intended study: Finance

Kaitlyn Lynch

Valor Christian High School

Intended study: Biology

Kendall Cramer

Mountain Vista High School

Intended study: Architecture

Kelton Burns

Rock Canyon High School

Intended study: Chemical engineering

Lauren Vick

Rock Canyon High School

Intended study: French

Madison Craffey

Thunder Ridge High School

Intended study: Art education

Madison Rhodes

Thunder Ridge High School

Intended study: Communications

Paityn Parks

Thunder Ridge High School

Intended study: Psychology

Tessa Smith

Mountain Vista High School

Intended study: Interior architecture

Truman Wells

Mountain Vista High School

Intended study: Finance

Additionally, scholarships are awarded to HRCA’s Therapeutic Recreation Department participants. Through a symbiotic relationship with HRCSF, scholarships are granted to students requiring financial help to take part in group activities or receive personal instruction.

Assessments & Covenants

What is the Architectural Review Committee?

The Board of Directors, as authorized by our Community’s Declarations, established the Architectural Review Committee, commonly known as “The ARC.” The Architectural Review Committee consists of between five and nine volunteer resident homeowners that are appointed by the Board of Directors. The ARC is responsible for reviewing plans for exterior improvements being made to residential properties by homeowners. However, instead of the typical bureaucratic, nitpicking image often associated with architectural review committees, the Highlands Ranch Community Association’s ARC is comprised of a group of passionate community members who collaborate to enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of our neighborhood. The ARC not only ensures adherence to guidelines, but also acts as a resource for homeowners, offering creative suggestions and solutions to improve their properties. They provide insight on sustainable landscaping, facade redesigns, and energy-efficient upgrades, fostering a sense of community and shared environmental responsibility.

The committee is tasked with ensuring that any alterations or additions to homes or properties comply with the established rules and regulations regarding aesthetics and design. This can include reviewing plans for new construction, renovations, landscaping changes, exterior paint colors, fencing, lighting and other modifications that could affect the appearance of the neighborhood. Rather than being seen as enforcers, the ARC strives to be partners in elevating the overall quality of life for everyone in the neighborhood.

To accomplish this, while maintaining a cohesive and visually appealing community by upholding certain standards and guidelines, the ARC often works closely with homeowners to ensure that proposed changes meet the criteria set forth in the Residential Improvement Guidelines. These guidelines are available on the HRCA website.

Join ARC today

We are actively seeking members to join the Architectural Review Committee (ARC). Visit our website and scroll to “HRCA Committees”, then “Join a Committee”. Here you will find items needed to apply for The ARC. The Charter and previous agendas and minutes are also located on this page. The Committee meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at the Administrative Offices at Eastridge Recreation Center.

ASSESSMENTS

303.471.8815

9568 University Blvd. assessments@hrcaonline.org HRCAonline.org/Assessments Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT SERVICES (CIS)

303.471.8821

9568 University Blvd. assessments@hrcaonline.org HRCAonline.org/Covenant Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Infant Swimming Resource (ISR)

Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) lesson experience is a comprehensive four to six week program where lessons are customized for the infant or child as they are safely guided through the learning process. ISR integrates swimming skills that are developmentally appropriate for young children, teaching them to save their own lives, while building the confidence that can lead to a lifetime of fun in and around the water. Reach out today to book summer sessions!

Date: Monday - Friday

Time: Scan the Aquatics QR code for details.

Location: Southridge Indoor Pool

Summer Masters Program

Intro to Scuba and Snorkel

Intro to Snorkel: Interested in learning the proper techniques involved with snorkeling both on the surface and underwater? This class is perfect for the entire family!

Intro to Scuba Diving: Curious about scuba diving but not quite ready for open water or a certification course? Take the plunge and experience the thrill in a safe pool environment! - Classes are taught by certified PADI instructors. All gear is provided.

Date: Sundays, June 2, July 21 or August 18*

Time: 12:30-2:30 p.m. (Snorkel) 2:30-4:30 p.m. (Scuba)

Location: Eastridge Indoor Lap Pool

*One time class - choose a single date

Were you a high school swimmer looking to get your groove back? Did you swim in college and want a great workout group with experienced coaches? Are you a triathlete looking for tips to improve your technique? Join one of our Coached Workout Classes this summer! Purchase a punch pass online or at the Northridge Front Desk. Bring your swim suit and goggles and get your swim on! Classes meet weekly. Check the website for current class times.

15 Years of the Backcountry Wilderness

Area

(Continued from page 1.)

Since then we’ve:

-Grown from one to 11 full-time staff members

-From $10,000 in revenue to more than $1 million

-Added 25 miles of natural surface trails along with amenities like the Archery Range, Base Camp and Horse Corrals

-Offers world-class hunting opportunities for members

-Engages 1,500 kids at Camp Backcountry each week in the summer

-Works on conservation projects in water, noxious weeds, fire mitigation and reduced cattle grazing

-Currently working on bison reintroduction to 200 acres in property’s southeast corner in partnership with Denver Mtn Parks

-Continue to manage the Backcountry Wilderness Area with careful, thoughtful decisions and rules in place to protect our local wild place.

Head to the HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Area Blog (HRCAbackcountryblog.org) for a yearby-year history of where we started and how far we’ve come.

Three Backcountry Wilderness Area Programs to Try in June

UTV Tours of the Backcountry Wilderness Area, Wednesdays:

Take a UTV tour of the Backcountry Wilderness Area to learn about the property, habitat improvements and programs while enjoying a relaxing outing and taking in the scenery. All proceeds benefit the Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund. Only one person must register and can invite up to three others to join.

Horseback Trail Rides:

Check out the Backcountry Wilderness Area on four hooves instead of two feet on our guided horseback trail rides. The relaxing one-hour outing explores a portion of our conservation property with opportunities to spot local wildlife like elk, mule deer, bobcats, golden eagles and wild turkeys. The Front Range foothills provide the perfect backdrop to a close-to-home horseback riding experience.

Seedlings Nature Playgroup, Mondays, 5 - 7 p.m.: Ages 1-6. Seedlings Nature Playgroup is a supportive group led by a seasoned educator with a play-based and Waldorf background. Children and parents will get to know each other and become familiar with the land, as we explore the Backcountry Wilderness Area together week after week. The evening will consist of time for a picnic dinner (brought from home), singing songs that celebrate the seasons, short hikes and explorations and imaginative child-led nature play.

UTV Tours of the Backcountry Wilderness Area, Wednesdays / Backcountry Base Camp. Seedlings Nature Playgroup, Mondays, 5-7 p.m. (first session starts on Monday, June 3) / Meet at Backcountry Base Camp. (6005 Ron King Trail)

STEMtastic Camps

Cooking Camps

Looking for help in the kitchen? This summer your child can learn helpful cooking skills while enjoying the fruits of their labor. Students enrolled in our cooking camps explore new recipes and flavors to expand their palates. These fun-filled camps fill quickly so register soon to get your helpers ready to cook! For more information, call 303-471-8853.

Location: Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Keep those brains busy this summer with one of our STEMtastics camps! We offer a variety of camps like Junior Scientists for your preschool aged children, Chess Workshops to build skill and strategy along with Coding and Drones for the more technical camper. For more information call 303-471-8818.

Location: Scan the Education QR code for details.

Active Ninja Warriors

Ninjas come in all shapes and sizes. Our Active Ninja classes start as early as age three up to age 15. Experience this warrior training program that includes a combination of gymnastics, trampoline and tumbling. Does your child have what it takes to be an Active Ninja? For more information, call 303-471-8818.

Location: Active Athletics8175 S Grant Way, Littleton, CO 80122

Summer Concert Series

Prepare for an unforgettable summer with our seven-part Summer Concert Series! Round up your squad and groove to a fun lineup of bands performing in June at Civic Green Park.

Whether you bring along a cozy blanket, a delightful picnic spread, or opt for treats from our array of food trucks, you’ll immerse yourself in the magic of live music, all while basking in the majestic sunset behind the iconic Rocky Mountains.

*Please note that all 2024 Summer Concert series performances in June have been moved to Civic Green Park located at 9370 S. Ridgeline Blvd.

Date:

•Thursday, June 6: Nothing But Nineties (90s/Pop/Rock)

•Thursday, June 13: Amanda V’s Material Girl (Madonna/Pop/80s)

•Thursday, June 20: Little Moses Jones (R&B/Soul/Hip Hop)

•Thursday, June 27: Hand Turkey (Funk/Dance/Soul-Pop)

Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Location: Civic Green Park - 9370 S. Ridgeline Blvd.

Details: Food trucks begin serving at 5:30 p.m.

Culture on the Green: Mudra Dance Studio

Join us for a very special performance by Mudra Dance Studio! With evocative elements of East Indian music, dance and culture, this is sure to be an evening of entertainment that the whole family can enjoy.

Date: Friday, June 21

Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Location: Civic Green Park9370 Ridgeline Blvd.

Details: Free

Highlands Ranch Beer Festival

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience at the Highlands Ranch Beer Festival! In partnership with Davidsons Beer, Wine & Spirits, we’re excited to bring you a day filled with craft beers, delicious food (available for purchase) and live music.

Date: Saturday, June 22

Time: 1 p.m. VIP access, 2 - 5 p.m. General Admission

Location: Civic Green Park - 9370 Ridgeline Blvd.

Details: $60 VIP, $45 GA

Golf Tournament

Lone Tree Symphony Orchestra

Golf for a good cause! HRCA is thrilled to present our second annual Golf Tournament to benefit our non-profit organizations (HRCA Scholarship Fund, Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund and the Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association). All participants will enjoy 18 holes of golf, catered lunch and various prizes. The deadline to register is Friday, June 14, or whenever the tournament fills! Join us and make a difference!

Date: Thursday, June 27

Time: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Location: University of Denver Golf Club9000 Creekside Way

Details: $145 per golfer

Talented musicians from the FunnyBones Trombone Quartet will be bringing their unique flair to the stage as part of the Lone Tree Symphony Orchestra’s Mini Symphony To-Go program.

Date: Friday, June 28

Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Location: Southridge Recreation Center4800 McArthur Ranch Rd. Details: $25

UPCOMING EVENTS

Thursday, July 4: Independence Day 5K

July 4th Parade July 4th Fireworks

Monday, July 8: Summer Hunt RaffleDrawing

Wednesday, July 10: Chamber Music

Thursday, July 11:

Summer Concert Series: Eric Golden

Saturday, July 13: Oaked and Smoked

Monday, July 15: Pottery Sale

Thursday, July 18: Summer Concert: Bad Colorado

Thursday, July 25: The Petty Nicks Experience

Friday: July 26: Culture on the Green: Michael Friedman: Funk & Soul

EVENTS

303.471.8888

HRCAonline.org/Events

HRCAonline.org/Tickets

Check the website for the most current event information and to purchase tickets.

Independence Day 5K

Get your Fourth of July holiday started with a family-friendly and festive 5K! This easygoing run/walk is great for anyone - whether it’s your first 5K or you’re a seasoned runner. Bring the whole family, including pets, and afterward, head to the HRCA Fourth of July Parade.

Date: Thursday, July 4

Time: 7:30 a.m.

Location: Town Center South9315 Dorchester

Details: $45+ adults / $30 ages 12 & under

Fourth of July Parade

The Highlands Ranch Community Association and Highlands Ranch Metro District are partnering to bring the Fourth of July Parade to the community. Participate for free in the Family, Pet, and Bike Parade or apply to march with your business or organization in the Community Parade. Parade applications must be received by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26.

Date: Thursday, July 4

Time: 8:45 a.m. Family, Bike, and Pet Parade begins; 9 a.m. Community Parade begins

Location: Highlands Ranch Pkwy & Hepburn St.

Details: Free

Fourth of July Fireworks

Join us for a spectacular fireworks display presented by the Highlands Ranch Community Association, Highlands Ranch Metro District and Douglas County! Bring a blanket and picnic, or enjoy food from onsite food trucks. Fireworks start around 9:30 p.m., weather and fire ban permitting. Parking is limited, consider biking, walking or ridesharing.

Date: Thursday, July 4

Time: 9:30 p.m.

Location: Highland Heritage Regional Park9651 Quebec St.

Details: Free

Free Yoga in the Park 2024!

Join us for Yoga in the Park this summer as HRCA Fitness partners with the Highlands Ranch Metro District to offer free yoga at Civic Green Park! Breathe in the fresh air, stretch under the open sky and find your inner balance amidst nature’s embrace, guided by expert instructors. Don’t miss out on this great community experience – come flow with us and discover the harmony of mind, body and nature. Registration is not required, participants must bring their own mat, all levels are welcome. Ages 13+ only.

Date: - Saturdays, June 1, 15, 22, 29, July 13, 20 and August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Time: 8 - 9 a.m.

Location: Civic Green Park - 9370 Ridgeline Blvd. Details: Free

Sip & Strech

Join us for a night of ultimate relaxation and Zen! Enjoy an hourlong, all-level yoga and stretchbased class led by our certified yoga instructor. The class will include an extended restorative rest to ensure you are relaxed from head to toe. Stay after to enjoy a refreshing glass of wine or beer and snacks while relaxing and visiting with friends on the back patio. This is an event you do not want to miss! Grab your friends, family and significant others for a night that is sure to leave you feeling calm and restored. Childcare options are available for ages two to eight. Registration fee includes one drink ticket per attendee. Ages 21+ only.

Date: Wednesday, July 17

Time: 4 - 6 p.m. or 6:30 - 8:30 p.m

Location: Southridge4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: $30 members / $35 guest

Wimbledon Finals

Tennis Mixer

Dust off your tennis whites and don your Wimbledon-style finest for a fun evening at the Wimbledon Finals Tennis Mixer! Celebrate the excitement of one of tennis’ most iconic events while mingling with fellow players and making new friends. Take to the court during our mixer for friendly matches and drills. Each ticket purchase includes two complimentary beer or wine tickets to toast the occasion. Delight in light snacks as you get to know fellow tennis lovers, learn more about our programming, and meet our pros. Don’t wait, this event will sell out! Ages 21+ only.

Date: Friday, July 12

Time: 5 - 8 p.m.

Location: Northridge - 8800 Broadway

Details: $25/$29 per person

Get ready to soak up the sun this summer with PEAK Golf Academy! Join our youth golf clinics for a season of perfecting your swing and stroke, meeting new friends and enjoying the great outdoors! All youth golf camps take place at the University of Denver Golf Club in Highlands Ranch! Scan sports QR code for more details. To register, please visit HRCAonline.org or call Patrick Gojan at 303-471-8869.

Youth Golf Camps League Tennis

There are many opportunities to play league tennis this year - a great way to stay active, improve your tennis game and have the chance to compete for a national championship. If you love playing tennis, you’ll love league tennis. Scan the QR code for more information or call the Tennis Sports Desk at 303-471-8996. Let’s Tennis!

Special Olympics Tennis Team

Learn the skills to play tennis, the rules of the game and good sportsmanship, while meeting new friends and having fun.

Date: Mondays, June 3 - July 29

Time: 4 - 5 p.m.

Location: Northridge Tennis Pavilion

8800 Broadway

Details: $150/$173

Stride to Ride Camp

A program dedicated to teaching individuals of all abilities two wheeled balance, coordination, and confidence for a lifetime of riding adventures. Price includes a Strider bike to take home!

Date: Monday, June 17 -Friday, June 21

Time: 10 - 11 a.m.

Location: Southridge Gym 4800 McArthur Ranch Road

Details: $220/$253

UPCOMING EVENTS

Wednesday, July 10:

Mountain Bike Race Series - Highland Point Circuit

Friday, July 12:

Wimbledon Finals Tennis Mixer

Saturday, July 13: Yoga in the Park

Wednesday, July 17: Sip & Stretch

Mountain Bike Race Series - Rocky Gulch Circuit

Saturday, July 20: Yoga in the Park

Wednesday, July 31:

Mountain Bike Race Series - Badlands Circuit

Facility Closures

Saturday, June 15:

All recreation centers close at 4 p.m. for the HRCA Summer Staff Party.

Saturday, June 22:

The Northridge Outdoor Pool is closed from 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 22, July 13 & 20 for Summer Swim Team Meets.

Events

Saturday, June 1: Yoga in the Park Summer Kickoff Classic Car Show

Thursday, June 6: Summer Concert Series: Nothing But Nineties

Sunday, June 9: Adult Dance Recital

Thursday, June 13: Summer Concert Series: Amanda V’s Material Girl

Friday, June 14: Happy Hour Half-K

Saturday, June 15: Yoga in the Park

Thursday, June 20: Summer Concert Series: Litttle Moses Jones

Friday, June 21: Culture on the Green: Mudra Dance Studio

Saturday, June 22: Yoga in the Park Highlands Ranch Beer Festival

Thursday, June 27: Golf Tournament

Summer Concert Series: Hand Turkey

Friday, June 28: Lone Tree Symphony Series

Saturday, June 29: Yoga in the Park

9568 University Blvd Highlands Ranch, CO 80126

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