Castle Rock, CO February 2025 by City Lifestyle

Local Love at Brekke Veterinary Clinic

Love Our Locals

Dear Readers,

Love is in the air this February, and we couldn’t be more excited to share our Love Local issue with you! This month, we’re turning the spotlight on the incredible people, businesses, and organizations that make our community so special.

There’s something truly powerful about prioritizing local—whether it’s grabbing your morning coffee from a neighborhood café, attending a local event, or supporting a nearby nonprofit. When we invest in our community, we’re not just helping it thrive—we’re building connections, strengthening relationships, and creating a place we’re all proud to call home.

In this issue, you’ll find features on some of the amazing locally owned businesses that add flavor and character to our area. We’re also highlighting events that bring us together and organizations doing impactful work. It’s a reminder that when we show up for each other, we all benefit.

In almost 40 years together we’ve lived in many places. In all of them we’ve loved our local spots. Castle Rock has an inspiring passion to support our local community like no place we’ve ever been.

This February, let’s celebrate what makes our community unique and renew our commitment to supporting each other. Together, we can continue creating a stronger, more vibrant place to live, work, and love. Here’s to showing our local love and making a difference where it matters most.

With gratitude and local pride,

STEVE HILL, PUBLISHER & DEBBIE HILL, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

February 2025

PUBLISHER

Steve Hill | steve.hill@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Debbie Hill | debbie.hill@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kristen Gonzales kristen.gonzales@kcrcopywriting.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Debbie Hill, Emma Reed

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Gina Kaufman MSN, FNP-C

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Outlets at CR and CRPD teaming up to bring "More Cheer to the New Year" 2: Starlight Market 3: Reindeer Games 4: Christmas Tree in Festival Park 5: Downtown lit up for the Holidays 6: Making S'Mores at the Storytellers and S'Mores Event 7: Castle Pines 2024 Winter Wonderland Carriage Rides

business monthly

AdventHealth Castle Rock Oncology Donation

On December 11, the Schrader family honored their pledge to advance worldclass cancer care in Castle Rock by fulfilling their $4M donation commitment to AdventHealth Castle Rock. This contribution was made two years ahead of schedule to expedite the development of cancer care services in our community. The Rock of Hope Campaign has now raised 57% of its $14M goal to successfully complete the campaign and activate expert, compassionate, faith-based, cancer care to Castle Rock.

Scan to read more

Summer Learning and Adventure at Camp DCL

Douglas County Libraries is excited to present its 2025 lineup of summer camps for kids ages 5-12. From hands-on creative arts and culinary adventures to STEM-style escape-room challenges and more, there’s something for every child to enjoy. The weeklong, half-day camps run June 2-August 1, with full-day camps offered at select library locations including Castle Rock. Registration opens on February 3. Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait! See full camp details by location at DCL.org/camp-dcl

CRIMINAL JUSTICE & YOUR RIGHTS

YOUR GUIDE TO CRIMI RESOLUTION

Join distinguished Criminal Defense Attorney Christopher J. Linas and Licensed Legal ParaProfessional Megan Urioste on Monday, February 10th at 6:00 PM MT for an enlightening one-hour FREE webinar.

In this complimentary session, discover how extenuating circumstances, prosecutor negotiations, and plea agreements can shape the outcome of criminal cases

Our experts will share proven strategies to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about case resolution

The session includes a 45-minute discussion of these essential topics, followed by a 15-minute live Q&A where attendees can gain clarity on their specific concerns.

Empower yourself with knowledge about the criminal justice system and your legal rights

Fully confidential: No cameras, names, or identifying information is shared.

4TH STREET LAW

Fairy Tale Ball: Beauty and the Beast

Be Our Guest!

You’re invited to a magical Fairy Tale Ball: Beauty and the Beast—a royal event perfect for kids ages 4-10 (but all ages are welcome)! Join us Saturdays, Feb. 1-March 1, for unforgettable enchantment, crafts and activities, and fairy tale fun. Costumes are encouraged. View the calendar and register at the link in bio.

Scan to read more

AdventHealth Rock of Hope Gala

Rock of Hope: A Campaign to Bring Cancer Care to Castle Rock. Every year in Castle Rock and surrounding areas, hundreds of people are diagnosed with cancer. As our community grows, that number is projected to climb into the thousands. Yet, we do not have a facility in town equipped to treat them. The time has come to bring cancer care to Castle Rock for our neighbors, our loved ones, and ourselves.

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Date Nights

Clue Clock Escape https://clueclock.com | 720.645.2927

Theater Of Dreams https://amazingshows.com | 303.660.6799

Music Video Bingo at Honnibrook Craft Meadery https://www.honnibrook.com | 720.257.9866

Live Music at The Whiskey Lounge https://castlerocklounge.com | 303.862.8575

Live Music at Hideaway Bar & Grill https://hideawaybarandgrill.com | 720.519.0509

Florist

The Flower Shop https://theflowershopcp.com | 303.663.8835

Studio Prive

https://www.shopstudioprive.com | 720.833.1085

Ambrosia Flowers & Gifts https://ambrosiaflowersco.com | 303.474.4727

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Castle Rock Florist https://castlerockflorist.com | 303.688.3310

The Flower Fix https://theflowerfix.com/collections/flowers | 720.251.2349

Castle Rock Film Festival

The Castle Rock Film Festival’s third season is April 10-12th.

Created by the Castle Rock Artist Alliance, the festival is a showcase of documentaries, short films, music videos by local filmmakers and movies from around the world. This year the festival has programs for everyone, including those adrenaline junkies who desire a little fright to add excitement to their Castle Rock night life.

While the list of movies is still under wraps, the festival promises an exciting and diverse lineup. Especially

for movies made right here in our backyard. The Local’s Only Program is a showcase of movies made by Colorado filmmakers. Stories that touch on life here in the Rockies, as well as great fantasias that shoot for the stars.

“Some of the best movies we get every year are from places we never expect like Elizabeth, Fort Collins, Denver, or from people who live in Castle Rock,” says Festival Director Hunter Burns. “This year is no different. So we decided that we needed to give them a show all their own”.

The festival makes a point about film being a local affair. Often the fest highlights heroes like Richard J. Fierro, whose brave actions stopped the Club Q shooting in Colorado Springs and whose life is now documented in last year’s festival Winner FIERRO directed by local filmmaker Edward Tyndall.

Programs this year will include a Comedy and Drama Hour, a Rising Stars show of High School, College and undiscovered talents, The Documentary & Music Show, Local’s Only AND a special Late Night program mysteriously titled THE MIDNIGHT CLUB. Tickets are available now at filmfreeway.com/ CastleRockFilmFestival/tickets .

All proceeds support the Castle Rock Artist Alliance Veterans and First Responders Art Programs. These programs give free art instruction, supplies and community to groups of Vets, and First Responders, those who serve Castle Rock and our country. Instructors are all members of the Artist Alliance and every dollar raised at the festival helps support this fund. “You can see a documentary some of the vets contributed to about the program called Painting a New Path on YouTube,” said Burns. “I think it shows what happens when the art community in town comes together.”

Learn more about this program and others the Castle Rock Artist Alliance activates at castlerockartistalliance.com

Laughter, Wonder - Castle Rock

STAYCATION!

Nearby destinations for your next weekend away

Nestled in Colorado Springs, The Broadmoor blends opulence with natural beauty. Its spa, golf courses, and fine dining provide unparalleled indulgence. Locals relish weekend escapes, exploring Cheyenne Mountain’s trails or unwinding lakeside. Perfect for staycations, The Broadmoor offers a serene retreat without leaving town, combining luxury and adventure for an unforgettable getaway.

The Gaylord Rockies offers Denver locals a luxurious getaway close to home. With sprawling pools, a relaxing spa, diverse dining, and seasonal events, it’s a destination for every occasion. Families love the indoor water park, while couples enjoy serene mountain views. Rediscover relaxation and entertainment at this unique retreat in Aurora’s backyard.

The Halcyon Hotel is known for its chic, home-away-from-home vibe in Cherry Creek. Enjoy rooftop cocktails, complimentary adventure gear rentals, and curated art-filled spaces. Perfectly placed for exploring Cherry Creek’s upscale boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, it’s the ideal base for a stylish staycation that blends relaxation with urban discovery.

1. BROADMOOR HOTEL

2. GAYLORD ROCKIES

3. HALCYON HOTEL IN CHERRY CREEK

The St Julien Hotel and Spa, nestled in downtown Boulder, offers luxurious spa treatments, farm-to-table dining at Jill’s Restaurant, and breathtaking Flatirons views. Perfect for a serene staycation, unwind with live music on the terrace or explore Pearl Street’s vibrant charm—all just steps away.

Nestled in the heart of Frisco, the Frisco Inn on Galena offers cozy charm and modern comforts for visitors exploring this vibrant mountain town. With gourmet breakfasts, a relaxing hot tub, and easy access to hiking, biking, and Main Street’s shops, it’s the perfect home base for an unforgettable Frisco adventure.

Locals treasure The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa for its historic charm and luxurious offerings. Enjoy afternoon tea in the opulent atrium, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, or savor fine dining. Perfect for staycations, this Denver icon blends elegance and urban convenience, making it an ideal escape without ever leaving the city.

5. ST. JULIEN HOTEL & SPA

6. BROWN PALACE HOTEL AND SPA DENVER

4. FRISCO INN ON GALENA

COMMUNITY

LOVE YOUR LOCAL VET

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN GONZALES

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BREKKE VETERINARY CLINIC

Brekke Veterinary Clinic: A Family-Owned Vet Supporting the Local Community

The sense of community is apparent when a client walks through the door at Brekke Veterinary Clinic. From the warm receptionist’s greeting to the spacious, inviting waiting room and pet treats on the counter, clients and their beloved pets know they are getting the personalized attention they seek.

“We really emphasize on personalized care and really engaging with people,” says owner Dr. Jay Brekke, DVM. “Our biggest goal is to be here for the community.”

Since opening his clinic in 2015, Jay founded his practice on community and ensuring owners and their pets receive the care he would provide to his own dog or cat. His college friend from Hawaii, Dr. Jacqueline Rudzinski, DVM, joined his practice in 2020 during a crucial time, helping care for the animals during the pandemic. Two other associate veterinarians, Dr. Andee Youngblood, DVM, and Dr. Emily Sponseller, DVM, have joined the practice, too.

In addition to four veterinarians who provide customized care, Jay’s practice is family-owned. His wife runs the business side of things, and her sister handles customer service and client-based initiatives. They love pets and have many to show for it.

“At one point, we had like 11 rescues between her [sister-in-law], my in-laws, and my wife and I,” explains Jay, citing that he also has four kids to add to the mix.

Celebrating 10 years this August, Jay is proud of his family-centered business and what it offers people that larger corporations cannot. Lower visit costs, personalized attention, and relationships with other local specialists are only a few attributes of Brekke Veterinary Clinic.

“One thing that we do is have very good relationships with a lot of specialists,” Jay explains, listing several local specialists he works with, including a veterinary surgeon, a veterinary cardiologist, a veterinary radiologist, a veterinary anesthesiologist, and a veterinary internal medicine specialist.

He goes on to say, “We’re able to conduct and coordinate a lot of that specialty care in-house, so people don’t have to go to other places and drive, and they get to keep everything through us with partners that we trust.” This level of care sets the Brekke Veterinary Clinic apart, especially as pets age and have more specialized needs.

Jay has developed relationships with specialists over the past 10 years to provide better care for his patients without having them go to a large corporation where they feel less connected to the community.

“It’s important,” Jay says, “because we can hold people’s hands during the specialty process, which is usually very advanced situations that are stressful and expensive.” For pet owners everywhere, knowing their doctor is not only familiar with a particular specialist but works with them directly is the old-school bedside manner people long to find.

As Brekke Veterinary Clinic expanded in 2020, there was a need for more space. They opened a sister clinic in East Castle Rock on Aloha Street. This space is an extension of their Happy Canyon location and is where they perform all their procedures.

While the clinic specializes in dogs and cats, Jay also lends his expertise to non-profit groups that rehabilitate wildlife birds whenever possible. For him, it’s another way to give back to the community.

When speaking about his clients, Jay beams with pride: “We have a lot of good clients, and the people we see appreciate and value what we value. It’s a good relationship because that’s what they’re looking for and what we are looking for.”

A SALAD REC IPE TO LOV E

A GORGEOUS, FRESH AND SIMPLE DISH

PEAR, PROSCIUTTO,

Burrata Salad

INGREDIENTS

• Ripe Pear

• Prosciutto

• Burrata

• Lemon Zest

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Dried Figs

• Red Pepper Flakes

DIRECTIONS

1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.

2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.

3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.

4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.

5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.

6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.

7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.

A Place to grow

Ivybrook Academy in Castle Rock brings an innovative blend of learning styles to the Pre K students and families of the community. Since its opening in 2020, the school has provided flexible, individualized education for children from toddlers to kindergarten. Here, education focuses on the academic achievements of students just as much as their social and emotional development.

The half-day academy has earned tremendous trust among the families it has served and is continuing to grow through wordof-mouth referrals. With exceptionally low teacher attrition and a strong, healthy culture that flows from staff to students, Ivybrook is making positive impacts on the community and offering strong foundations in early childhood education. Behind the success of the school is Mark Arbitrio—a Colorado resident, husband, and father.

“Mr. Mark,” as the Ivybrook students know him, is a trusted figure for teachers, parents, and children alike. His belief in the program has contributed massively to its success. And for Mark and his wife, it’s personal too, as their own boy recently graduated from Ivybrook last year. This personal connection fuels his passion for ensuring every child who walks through Ivybrook’s doors receives the same enriching experience.

ARTICLE BY EMMA REED

In a world where early childhood education doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, Mark has carved out a space where connection and care come first. This isn’t just about teaching ABCs; it’s about shaping a culture where every child, parent, and teacher finds inspiring development and feels part of a thriving community.

With a background in corporate sales, Mark made what he describes as a “natural” transition to running the early childhood education center. “It’s all about relationships,” he shared. “And this is no different. Building trust with parents, children, and staff is the foundation of everything we do here.” This emphasis on human connection has been pivotal to Ivybrook’s establishment, growth, and reputation over the past five years.

2020 was a difficult year to open a school, Mark reflects. But despite the challenges, he was successful in bringing the first Ivybrook Academy to Colorado. When his own search for the right preschool for his son didn’t meet expectations, Mark and his wife, Alison, did

Meet Mark Arbitrio: The visionary leader behind Castle Rock’s innovative early childhood education center, Ivybrook Academy

Arbitrio Family

something about it. Backed by robust support and national resources, Ivybrook Academy has flourished with several other Douglas County locations following its lead.

Ivybrook’s educational philosophy is built on flexibility and personalization, ensuring that every child is met where they are developmentally and academically. The school adopts a blended learning approach, merging elements of Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and traditional education models. This combination allows students to explore their interests, develop critical thinking skills, and grow at their own pace.

The program places a strong emphasis on the social and emotional development of Ivybrook students, recognizing how these skills lay the groundwork for lifelong success. This

allows for even the quietest children to find their voices. Mark explained how rewarding it is for parents and teachers alike to watch the reserved students blossom and come alive in the space. This focus on holistic development ensures that each child gains confidence and learns to navigate relationships, preparing them not only for the classroom but also for the larger world.

A culture of warmth and respect has been cultivated at Castle Rock’s Ivybrook Academy. “It’s wonderful to see how the positive energy from our teachers filters down to the kids,” Mark said. This ethos of mutual respect and kindness permeates every corner of the academy, creating an environment where children feel valued and parents feel confident entrusting their little ones to the program.

Under Mark’s leadership, Ivybrook Academy in Castle Rock has become a worthy cornerstone of early childhood education in the community. As he reflects on the past five years, Mark remains steadfast in his commitment to fostering relationships and enriching lives. “I’m really grateful to have both the staff and the families that we have,” he said. “I love going to work every day.”

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 5TH

Colorado Bluebird Project — Open House

Millhouse - 1381 W. Plum Creek Parkway Castle Rock, CO 80109 | 7:00 PM

Learn about the Colorado Bluebird Project through the POST Partners Volunteer Program and how to construct or monitor nest boxes in order to increase populations. Join us at the 2025 Open House to learn more about how you can help! Trained volunteers monitor Town owned nest boxes from April through August.

FEBRUARY 6TH

AdventHealth Rock of Hope Gala

The Oaks at Plum Creek 321 Players Club Dr, Castle Rock, CO 80104 | 6:00 PM

A Campaign to Bring Cancer Care to Castle Rock. Every year in Castle Rock and surrounding areas, hundreds of people are diagnosed with cancer. It's time to bring cancer care to Castle Rock. Please consider attending the Rock of Hope Gala at The Oaks at Plum Creek. Proceeds from this event will directly support the oncology campaign.

FEBRUARY 15TH

13th Annual Castle Rock Bull Riding Evening

Douglas County Fairgrounds | 7:00 PM

As one of Castle Rock's premier events, it features two great showtimes: a 2:00pm matinee and 7:00pm show, held at the Douglas County Fairgrounds indoor arena. More than 100 bulls will buck and be scored individually. Bull riders are also competing for a trophy buckle. Youth bull riders will try their skills on mini bulls.

FEBRUARY 20TH

Colorado Bluebird Project - Option 1

Millhouse - 1381 W. Plum Creek Parkway Castle Rock, CO 80109 | 4:00 PM

The Colorado Bluebird Project improves the vitality of native bluebird populations and educates the public about bluebirds. Since 2007, the program has maintained and monitored over 200 nest boxes at sites throughout Castle Rock. The Project needs volunteers for monitoring breeding activity in the nest boxes. For more information, contact the Natural Resource Specialist at 720-733-2294 or bspagnuolo@CRgov.com, or visit CRgov.com/Bluebird

FEBRUARY 22ND

Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Gala

Cielo at Castle Pines, 485 West Happy Canyon Road, Castle Rock, CO 80108 | 6:00 PM

The Disco Jungle Gala & Annual Community Awards will be held at Cielo at Castle Pines. You are invited to our event where we recognize the dedication, leadership and valued contributions of the county's most engaged professionals!

Please join us as we honor our 2024 Castle Rock Chamber Chairman Rob Osborn and welcome our 2025 Chairman Kris Brader.

FEBRUARY 26TH

Colorado Bluebird Project - Option 2

Millhouse - 1381 W. Plum Creek Parkway Castle Rock, CO 80109 | 6:30 PM

YOUTH& BEAUTY REDISCOVERED

OCULOFACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

At Colorado Eye Consultants, we are proud to offer oculofacial plastic surgery by ASOPRS fellowship trained & board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Carl Rebhun. With years of advanced training and dedication to his patients, Dr. Rebhun combines the latest surgical innovations with artistic precision to achieve natural, rejuvenating results.

WHY CHOOSE DR. CARL REBHUN?

EXTENSIVE TRAINING: ASOPRS fellowship trained and board-certified.

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EXCEPTIONAL CARE: Personalized consultation to meet your goals.

DUAL EXPERTISE: Specializes in both cosmetic & medical procedures. Call (303) 730-0404 to schedule your consultation today!

ColoradoEyeConsultants.com

LOVE POTION #9

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY ANNA BARNES

A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY

WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?

This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!