by Terri Wiebold

Photos by Jeremy Gamble

Coffee goers who did not want to get cold or wet these last few weeks of blizzard weather in Castle Pines North (CPN) could be found at the Starbucks drive thru, conveniently located just off Castle Pines Parkway, and adjacent to Castle Rock Bank at 506 Castle Pines Parkway.

“In weather like this, the drive-up window is so much more convenient than getting out of the car,” said Rick Whipple of Noble Ridge, braving the snow at the local Starbucks (pictured above.)

A current menu feature is the Cinnamon Dolce Latte, a blend of cinnamon, butter and brown sugar flavors, combined with sweet espresso, steamed milk, and topped with whipped cream, cinnamon and sugar. A favorite on the food menu is the reduced-fat cinnamon chip mini loaf. It is a blend of cinnamon and vanilla, drizzled with streusel topping.  Containing whole grains and no trans fat, anyone can feel good about sticking to New Year’s resolutions and enjoying this tasty treat.

“At Starbucks, we have always offered a wide variety of options, for both beverages and food, in order to meet the needs of our diverse customer base,” according to Starbucks Regional Marketing Manager Phil Smith. “We offer more than 87,000 beverage combinations to our customers, and these options are adaptable to their various needs.”

It is no secret that Starbucks Coffee Company is a world-wide phenomenon, but keeping a local feel to the Castle Pines North drive through location is important, says store manager Sherry Copeland. In December, Starbucks hosted a “Cheer Party” with DCS Montessori, which featured Santa & his sleigh, while a Douglas County librarian was also on hand to read The Night Before Christmas to the kids.

“Starbucks is so good to our community,” said CPN Master Association Business Relations Manager Sharon Kollmar. “They donate coffee for the New Resident Welcome Coffee every quarter, and they are always willing to help out whenever we ask.” In addition, the store takes pastry donations to a local senior center every day.

Open since April 2005, Starbucks features a drive through and a cozy seating area ideal for meeting with clients or socializing with friends. Hours are 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 5:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday; 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday; 5:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday. For more information about this location, call 303-663-0196.