News & Important Updates

The Platte Canyon Chamber has always been committed to understanding the heartbeat of our community. As part of our ongoing efforts to guide strategic planning and enhance the quality of life in Bailey, we conducted a comprehensive research study in November 2023. Here are some key insights from this enlightening endeavor. Engaging Our Community Launching on October 13th, 2023, our online survey aimed to capture the sentiments, thoughts, and suggestions of our residents. We were overwhelmed by the response: 357 completed surveys were submitted. And we had an impressive 100% completion rate with on average over 10 minutes spent by those who completed the survey. This level of engagement speaks volumes about our community's passion and commitment to Bailey. What Does Bailey Mean to You? When asked about the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Bailey, "small town," "beautiful mountain scenery," and intriguingly, "Sasquatch" were among the top associations. The prevailing sentiment was that of a quaint, mountainous community with a unique charm. Strengths and Opportunities Our survey participants identified Bailey's primary strengths as its small-town feel, picturesque location, and friendly community spirit. However, challenges lie in infrastructure, healthcare access, and public safety, highlighting areas where focused efforts could make a significant difference. Building Community Connections While 48% of respondents felt Bailey has a good or great sense of community, we recognize the need to strengthen bonds further. A sense of community is the bedrock of a thriving town, and we're committed to fostering connections and building a stronger, more cohesive Bailey. The Future of Bailey The feedback also shed light on our residents' aspirations for Bailey's future. Key themes that emerged included beautification, improved communication, better recreational facilities for families, and increased support for local businesses. Chamber's Role and Responsiveness While 27% rated the Chamber's effectiveness positively, we acknowledge that there's work to be done. With 33% of respondents unaware of the chamber's existence, we aim to enhance our visibility and clearly communicate our role as the town's advocate and resource hub. Moving Forward Together Armed with these invaluable insights, the Platte Canyon Chamber has taken proactive steps to address the community's concerns. We've presented our findings to the Park County Board of Commissioners and held a public town meeting to discuss actionable strategies. Immediate initiatives include beautification projects to enhance Bailey's aesthetics and exploring options to address the pressing need for improved healthcare access. Join Us in Shaping Bailey's Future Your voice matters! As we continue to develop plans and strategies based on this research, we invite you to join us. Share your ideas, concerns, and aspirations for Bailey's future. Together, we can build a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous community that we're all proud to call home. Below is the research study executive summary: Executive Summary: Platte Canyon Chamber Research Study 2023 Objective: The Platte Canyon Chamber conducted a research study in October and November 2023 as part of its strategic planning process to understand community sentiments and guide future planning efforts. Methodology: An online survey was launched on October 13th, 2023, with several open-ended questions distributed via email, social media, and neighborhood groups. By November 15th, 357 completed responses were received, indicating a highly engaged audience with a 100% completion rate. Key Findings: Community Perception of Bailey: The top associations with Bailey were "small town," "beautiful mountain scenery," and mentions of "Sasquatch." The most common attributes associated with Bailey were "small town," "mountain community," and "friendly." Most respondents were unaware of the official town tagline, with "Bailey strong" being the most guessed phrase. Strengths and Weaknesses: Top strengths identified were being a "small town," residing in a "beautiful area," and being "friendly." Infrastructure, access to healthcare, and public safety were identified as primary weaknesses. Sense of Community: 48% felt Bailey had a good or great sense of community. In comparison, 37% rated their neighborhood as having a good or great sense of community. Retirement and Family Environment: 44% rated Bailey as a good or great place to retire, with concerns mainly around limited healthcare access. 47% rated Bailey as a good or great place to raise children, citing concerns about lack of playgrounds and school system quality. Aesthetics and Public Art: Only 16% felt Bailey had good or great street landscaping and hardscapes in commercial areas. Merely 11% believed Bailey had a visible presence of public art. Chamber Effectiveness: 27% rated the chamber's effectiveness as good or great. 33% were unaware of the chamber's existence. Expectations from the chamber included economic development, beautification, and improved communication. Conclusion: The research study highlighted key areas of concern and opportunities for improvement in Bailey. Priorities include beautification, infrastructure development, healthcare access, and improved communication from the chamber. These insights are instrumental in guiding future initiatives and community engagement efforts. Next Steps: Following the survey's findings, the chamber has presented the results to the Park County Board of Commissioners and held a public town meeting in February to discuss plans moving forward. Immediate actions include beautification efforts and advocating for healthcare initiatives on the ballot. Download a copy of the full study report here .

We've had reports of a couple scams circulating right now that we all need to watch for.

Located in the picturesque foothills alongside the South Platte River in Bailey, Aspen Peak Cellars stands as a testament to resilience, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. Founded by Marcel and Julie Flukiger, Aspen Peak Cellars has weathered numerous challenges to become a beacon of quality dining and winemaking in the region. Their award-winning, handcrafted wines, produced right here in Bailey, draw wine enthusiasts from all across the Country. The story of Aspen Peak Cellars begins with Marcel and Julie, both trained chefs, who crossed paths nearly thirty years ago at Denver's historic Brown Palace. After falling in love, marrying and settling in the foothills, their journey into winemaking began unexpectedly when Marcel gifted Julie a winemaking kit for Christmas in 2005. What started as a hobby soon turned into a passion, with the couple winning several awards for their wines. In 2009, Marcel and Julie took a leap of faith and opened Aspen Peak Cellars at the Clifton House, a micro-winery, bistro, and bed and breakfast near Conifer. However, tragedy struck in the summer of 2011 when the 135-year-old barn at the Clifton House, housing their winery, was destroyed by a lightning strike. Undeterred, Marcel and Julie relocated their business to a new, larger facility in Bailey in 2012. Their journey took yet another challenging turn in 2016 when a semi-trailer slammed into their winery, rendering it a "total loss." Despite the setbacks, Marcel and Julie remained steadfast in their determination to pursue their passion for great food and great wine. During the rebuild, they opened a small tasting room next to Sasquatch Outpost until they were able to reopen in January of 2018, operating as a full-service winery/bistro since then. And knock wood, there will be no more run ins with Mother Nature or 18 wheelers in their future. In my interview with Marcel and Julie, they shared insights into their journey, challenges, and vision for the future. Marcel emphasized the importance of their background in the restaurant business, coupled with their self-taught expertise in winemaking. From starting as a small operation to methodically expanding into a team-driven enterprise, Marcel and Julie credit their success to persistence, a focus on consistency, and a passion for what they do. Their advice for aspiring business owners emphasizes the need for a solid business plan, resilience in the face of adversity, a commitment to consistency and a deep-rooted passion for their craft. Producing approximately 2.500 cases of wine annually from grapes sourced from Palisade, Colorado as well as California and Washington, Aspen Peak Cellars has carved a niche for itself in Colorado's winemaking landscape. Despite the hardships they've faced, Marcel and Julie take pride in the steady growth of their business and the employment opportunities it provides to the local community. With a much appreciated, dedicated team of 18 employees, Aspen Peak Cellars continues to thrive, thanks to the unwavering support of loyal customers and tourists alike. Looking ahead, Marcel and Julie are excited about the future of Aspen Peak Cellars. They recently introduced dinner service, expanding their offerings to provide a unique dining experience amidst the scenic beauty beside the river. Additionally, they are actively involved in community initiatives to promote tourism and enhance the local economy. Marcel and Julie invite visitors to savor the fruits of their labor, experience the warmth of their hospitality, and join them in celebrating the art of food, wine and music that defines their winery. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a connoisseur of fine dining, or simply seeking a memorable experience in the foothills of Colorado, Aspen Peak Cellars promises an unforgettable adventure for all who venture through its doors.

Here's why It is so crucial:

Looking to elevate your business's visibility while making a positive impact in the community? Look no further! Bailey Days 2024 presents a great opportunity for businesses like yours to shine while supporting our vibrant local scene. Here's why you should consider becoming a sponsor: Brand Visibility: With more than 100 vendors and artisans, Bailey Days attracts thousands of visitors from near and far. By sponsoring the event, your brand will be prominently showcased to this large audience, as well as to the local community. Foster Community Engagement: Demonstrate your commitment to our lively and thriving community by supporting one of its most cherished events. Your sponsorship helps foster a sense of togetherness and pride among residents and visitors alike. Seize Marketing Opportunities: Take advantage of various marketing channels associated with Bailey Days to promote your business. From event signage to social media mentions, your sponsorship provides valuable exposure for your brand. Enhance Brand Image: Align your business with a beloved local event and bolster your brand's reputation. By associating with Bailey Days, you showcase your company's values and commitment to the community, enhancing your image among customers and stakeholders. Network with Local Leaders: Connect with other businesses, community leaders, and potential clients during the event. Bailey Days provides an excellent opportunity for networking and building mutually beneficial relationships within the local business community. Support Local Economy: By sponsoring Bailey Days, you're not just investing in your business; you're investing in the growth and prosperity of Bailey's economy. Your support contributes to the success of local vendors, artisans, and businesses, creating a ripple effect of economic benefits for the entire community.  Join us in embracing corporate social responsibility while reaping the rewards of increased brand visibility, community engagement, and positive brand image. Don't miss out on this chance to showcase your business and make a meaningful impact at Bailey Days 2024! Ready to sign up or learn more? Click here to learn more and sign up.

Exciting news from the Platte Canyon Chamber of Commerce: we're rolling out FREE visitor kits for your properties! These kits include: - An outline of suggested fun things to do in the area - Listing of area businesses of interest to visitors - Flyers, coupons and special offers from area businesses  Ready to enhance your guests' experience? Send an email to marketing@Bailey-Colorado.org or reach out to us starting April 1st to arrange pick up of these visitor kits! Let's showcase the best of Bailey together!

Surrounded by the tranquility of Bailey's natural scenic beauty, Polita's Place Apothecary & Wellness stands as a beacon of holistic health and wellness. At its helm is Paula Marquez, a passionate clinical herbalist and Reiki master whose journey towards healing and empowerment has woven seamlessly into the fabric of her community. Paula's trajectory is as diverse as the herbs she lovingly tends to. With a background in healthcare as a medical assistant, she embarked on a path toward traditional medicine, and then moved into eduction for 16 years, only to find her true calling in educational holistic practices. Her transition from the rigors of the medical field to the gentle embrace of education and herbalism reflects her unwavering commitment to holistic healing. As the founder of Polita's Place, Paula has curated a space where ancient wisdom meets modern sensibilities. The essence of an apothecary, with its roots in antiquity as a haven for herbal remedies, finds new life in her storefront. Here, over 70 herbs stand ready to offer their medicinal gifts, each meticulously selected and blended to address a myriad of health concerns. From soothing teas to potent tinctures, Paula's offerings are as diverse as the individuals they serve. But Polita's Place is more than just a purveyor of herbal remedies; it is a sanctuary for holistic wellness. With her background in Reiki and holistic nutrition, Paula extends her healing touch beyond the physical realm. Reiki sessions, workshops, and private consultations form the cornerstone of her practice, offering clients a holistic approach to well-being that nurtures mind, body, and spirit. What sets Polita's Place apart is not just the products lining its shelves, but the depth of care and expertise Paula brings to each interaction. Her consultations are not mere transactions but transformative journeys, where she delves deep into the root causes of imbalance and crafts personalized wellness plans tailored to each individual. Drawing upon her extensive knowledge of both herbalism and conventional medicine, Paula bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, offering her clients a holistic approach that honors the wisdom of both worlds. Beyond her role as a healer, Paula is a beacon of inspiration for her community. Her journey from uncertainty to empowerment serves as a testament to the transformative power of following one's heart. In a world often defined by hustle and haste, Paula's steadfast dedication to her dream of owning an apothecary in the mountains is a reminder of the importance of staying true to one's vision, even in the face of uncertainty. As Polita's Place continues to flourish, Paula's vision extends beyond the confines of her storefront. She dreams of fostering a community of wellness practitioners, where collaboration and camaraderie reign supreme. Her desire to create a wellness group within the Platte Canyon Chamber of Commerce reflects her commitment to nurturing a network of support and collaboration, where healers of all modalities can come together to uplift and empower one another. In Paula Marquez and Polita's Place, the community of Bailey finds not just a storefront, but a sanctuary—a place where healing is not just a transaction, but a journey; where wellness is not just a destination, but a way of life. With each herb lovingly blended, each consultation thoughtfully crafted, Paula invites her community to rediscover the healing power of nature and the boundless potential that lies within.

Supporting local businesses and keeping sales tax within Park County can have a significant positive impact on the roads and infrastructure of our community. When residents choose to buy locally, they contribute to the growth and sustainability of small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy. These businesses, in turn, generate revenue that directly supports essential services like road maintenance, infrastructure improvements, and community development projects. By keeping sales tax dollars within Park County, we ensure that a portion of every purchase goes back into funding vital public services. These funds play a crucial role in providing services and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Additionally, investing in local businesses fosters a sense of community pride and unity, as it encourages collaboration and cooperation among neighbors and entrepreneurs. Buying local also helps to reduce environmental impact by minimizing transportation emissions associated with goods imported from distant locations. This aligns with the ethos of sustainability and environmental stewardship that is deeply ingrained in the culture of Park County. Supporting local businesses and keeping sales tax within Park County is not just about economic prosperity—it's about investing in the well-being and future of our community. By making conscious choices to buy local, we can contribute to the maintenance and improvement of our roads and infrastructure, ensuring a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come.