News & Important Updates

Meet Chill Squirrel Trading Company Owners: Jeff Shippen & Kim Mickelsen Shippen Known for its variety, charm, and ever-changing shelves, Chill Squirrel is more than a store—it’s an experience. This “practical gift shop” has become a staple for both visitors and locals over the past six years. Jeff and Kim Shippen each spent 37 years in corporate America—Jeff in data and Kim in marketing. Like many who fall in love with Bailey, they began as weekenders after buying a vacation home here in 2015. The peace of the mountains called them to make Bailey their full-time home, and by early 2019 they had opened the first Chill Squirrel shop above the old Coffee Shack on Hwy 285. In 2021, they moved into their current location in Rustic Square—a bigger, brighter space that gave them room to expand and to join a cluster of other local shops. The move has allowed them to thrive, grow, and better serve the Bailey community. Gifts, Surprises, and Something for Everyone Chill Squirrel is more than a gift shop—it’s a place where tourists and locals alike can find something unique, practical, and fun. The shelves are filled with a wide variety of treasures—candles, cigars, jewelry, toys for kids, and gourmet food items like charcuterie boards. They also carry unique imported goods from Turkey, India, and Ghana. What makes them stand out is not just the variety but the philosophy behind the shop: it’s designed to be a place where you can pick up a gift for any occasion—birthday, wedding, anniversary—and have it be something special you wouldn’t expect to find in a small town. Jeff and Kim are also constantly refreshing their merchandise, learning what appeals most to their customers, and never letting their inventory go stale. Each visit feels new, which is part of the reason customers keep coming back. From Rocky the Squirrel to a Community Symbol The name has a heartfelt backstory. Shortly after Jeff and Kim were married, Jeff found a baby squirrel—pink, furless, and abandoned. They named him Rocky and raised him until he was ready to return to the wild. From that moment, squirrels became a symbol for them. Pair that with the sense of calm they felt every time they turned off the highway onto 285 and left the stress of city life behind, and the name “Chill Squirrel” was born. It’s playful, memorable, and a little mysterious—so much so that people often stop in just to learn what it means. What Makes Chill Squirrel Special Constantly changing inventory—there’s always something new to discover Affordable pricing—often below suggested retail Something for everyone—from tourists to locals, kids to grandparents Special orders available—if they don’t carry it, they’ll try to get it for you Community connections—active on social media, but mindful not to flood local feeds Thriving Through Challenges and Change Opening right before COVID in 2019 tested their resilience, but Chill Squirrel pulled through and celebrated six successful years in March 2025. One of their biggest ongoing challenges has been letting locals know they’re here. Even now, people who have lived just down the road for years are discovering Chill Squirrel for the first time. Despite that, their reputation continues to grow, fueled by loyal regulars, repeat visitors from Denver, Evergreen, Conifer, and beyond, and seasonal residents who make the shop one of their first stops when they return to town. Jeff and Kim are most proud of their ability to adapt, evolve, and stay strong despite economic ups and downs. Family, Community, and the Joy of Connection Chill Squirrel is about more than selling gifts—it’s about people. Jeff and Kim love connecting with tourists from all over the world, as well as building relationships with their Bailey neighbors. Outside of the shop, they enjoy traveling, exploring Colorado’s mountains and hidden gems, and—most importantly—spending time with their grandchildren: twin 6-year-old grandsons in Denver and a 1-year-old grandson in Omaha. Advice for New Business Owners “You cannot build it and think they will come,” Kim says. “You have to market yourself, get involved in the community, and create a compelling reason for people to visit you.” Fun Fact Squirrel lovers are drawn in by the name. Squirrel haters? They come in too—out of curiosity. Either way, the name works, and everyone leaves with a smile (and usually a bag in hand). Plan Your Visit You’ll find Chill Squirrel at 47 County Rd 68, in Rustic Square behind Casa Sanchez. They are open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm.

The August Chamber meeting was filled with community energy, meaningful announcements, and great ways to get involved. Here's a look at what's happening across the Bailey area. Member Updates & Community Highlights PCCP Resale Boutique Supports Seniors The PCCP Resale Boutique in downtown Bailey is donating 100% of its August profits to the Senior Alliance of Platte Canyon . Since its founding, the Boutique has given away over $250,000 to local nonprofits, making a significant impact in our community. Be sure to stop by, shop, and support this month’s cause. Pumpkin Patch & Silent Auction – October 11 Deer Creek Secure Self Storage will host a Pumpkin Patch and Silent Auction on October 11 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of the High Rockies . This family-friendly event includes: Bouncy House Face Painting Costume Exchange Food Vendors Silent Auction One Free Pumpkin per Child If you’d like to donate a silent auction item, contact Heather Linne-Spidel at 720-800-0022 or text 720-928-8924. McGraw Park – Park County Historical Society Events Open House : Saturday, August 16, 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Tarryall Gold Presentation : August 30 at 1:00 PM Field Trip to Leavitt : August 23, meet at 10:00 AM October Field Trip : Planned visit to Tarryall Gold (details to come) Como Railroad Days : Happening this weekend in Como Firewood Ministry at Conifer Community Church – September 20 The annual Wood Splitting Event will be held on September 20. All split firewood is donated to local families in need of help with winter heating. The ministry is looking for volunteers and sponsors to support this effort. Chamber Initiatives & Opportunities Bailey Visitor Center – Volunteers Needed The Bailey Visitor Center is now open Thursday through Sunday , and the Chamber is actively seeking volunteers to help greet and assist visitors. Sign up to volunteer here. Community Opportunity Board – Now Live The Chamber's Opportunity Board is now active and available for community use. Whether you're looking to hire , volunteer , offer housing , or share a local need , this is the go-to spot for connecting resources in the Bailey area. Visit the board and explore current listings or post your own at: https://www.bailey-colorado.org/opportunity-board Coroner's Care Team Seeking Volunteers The Park County Coroner’s Care Team is recruiting volunteers to support families and survivors in times of crisis. Ideal volunteers: Are compassionate and good listeners Have some spare time Live in Park County (at least part-time) Are calm and supportive during difficult situations If you're interested, call 719-836-4340 or speak with Jim Meyers , who is currently involved and available to answer questions. Business Spotlight: Crow Hill Insurance Bryan Hutchison, the new owner of Crow Hill Insurance, was the featured presenter at this month’s meeting. He shared valuable insight into navigating the local insurance landscape and offered helpful tips for managing rates and deductibles. Bryan brings fresh energy and a deep understanding of coverage options in mountain communities. Stay Connected Whether you're supporting a nonprofit, volunteering at the Visitor Center, or attending an upcoming event, your involvement strengthens our community. Thank you to all members and guests who joined the August meeting. We look forward to seeing you next month!

Meet Owners: Kyleigh Rossignol & Ben Goldsmith

Where Every Purchase Pays It Forward: PCCP Resale Boutique Turns 9

The Platte Canyon Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the opening of the new Bailey Visitors Center, located at 81 Main Street, in the heart of downtown Bailey. The Visitors Center, made possible through a partnership with Park County, which provided the space, was brought to life in just a matter of weeks—and with a budget of under $500. "This was truly a community-powered project," said Mark Linne, President of the Platte Canyon Chamber. “Thanks to generous donations of furniture, fixtures, and time, and a lot of elbow grease from our Chamber Board, we were able to get this vital resource up and running with almost no cost.” The center is designed to serve both visitors and locals, providing maps, business directories, recreational guides, brochures, and other information to help people make the most of their time in Bailey and the surrounding area. The space also highlights local attractions, shops, eateries, events, and outdoor activities. As part of a broader effort to improve the visitor experience in Bailey, the Chamber is also working to add a video monitor and outdoor kiosks that will provide information 24/7 and is exploring additional ways to make Main Street more welcoming and accessible. In the meantime, public port-a-potties have been placed near the Visitors Center, addressing the long-standing challenge of having no public restrooms on Main Street. The Chamber envisions the Visitors Center as a hub to boo st tourism, support local businesses, and help travelers see Bailey not just as a drive-through town—but as a true destination.

This month’s Chamber meeting highlighted the incredible progress happening across our community—from new resource launches and upcoming events to exciting ribbon cuttings and valuable educational opportunities. Here's your full update: Shepherd of the Rockies Annual Plant Sale – May 17 Mark your calendars for this year’s plant sale at Shepherd of the Rockies Church on Saturday, May 17, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM , located at 106 Rosalie Rd., Bailey, CO 80421 . The sale features a wide selection of indoor and outdoor plants, including geraniums, petunias, morning glories, nasturtiums, tomatoes, alyssum, hoya carnosa, succulents, coleus, spider plants, aloe vera, mother of millions , and more. In addition, shoppers can find books, gardening tools, pots, and other gardening-related items. Proceeds benefit the church and its outreach. 2025 Seniors Alliance of Platte Canyon Resource Directory The updated Seniors Alliance Resource Directory is now available and packed with essential resources and services to help seniors in the Platte Canyon area stay connected and supported. Directories can be picked up at the new Bailey Visitor Center or at participating local businesses. Browse the full directory online at: https://seniorsalliance.org/resource-directory/ Platte Canyon Health Service District – Public Hearing May 14 The Platte Canyon Health Service Committee is working on getting a proposal for a Health Service District on the ballot to help shape the future of local healthcare access. A public hearing will take place May 14 at 3:00 PM at the BOCC office in Fairplay. Community members can also participate via Zoom from the Bailey Library. Learn more at: plattecanyonhealthmatters.com John Reynolds Reenactment – April 24 Join local historian Jim for a powerful reenactment of John Reynolds at the Bailey Library on April 24. This live performance brings local history to life and offers an engaging experience for all ages. Bailey Theatre Company – A Tuna Christmas Opens May 29 The Bailey Theatre Company kicks off its season with A Tuna Christmas, running May 29 through June 8 at the Bailey Theater. Use promo code PCAC20 at checkout to receive $8 off your ticket. Tickets are available at: https://www.baileytheatrecompany.org/ Boys & Girls Club of the High Rockies – $20,000 Raised! Thanks to the success of this year’s Great Futures Gala, the Boys & Girls Club of the High Rockies raised $20,000 to support youth programs across the mountain community. Learn more or donate at: https://bgchr.co/ Mudbugs, Music & Mingling – May 20 at Chimney Doctors Join us on May 20 at 5:00 PM at Chimney Doctors, 280 Main Street, Bailey, for a lively evening of music, networking, and crawfish. Sponsored by Chimney Doctors and Ginger Williams, Realtor , this event is open to non-Chamber business owners as well. Live music will be provided by Joe Bye & Friends . Deep Woods Sasquatch Escape Room – Ribbon Cutting June 7 The new Deep Woods Sasquatch Escape Adventure will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, June 7, at 149 Main Street in Bailey. The ribbon cutting will take place at 2:00 PM , and all are invited to attend. The escape room promises a slightly spooky, team-based adventure with a Sasquatch twist. Follow their progress and listen to the podcast at: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchoutpost2025 Bailey Visitor Center – Now Officially Open It’s official: The Chamber has received the keys to the new Bailey Visitor Center from Commissioner Amy Mitchell. The center, located in downtown Bailey, includes restrooms, picnic tables, trash service, and visitor signage. Special thanks to Shirley Septic for donating and maintaining two portable restrooms. The Chamber is currently seeking volunteers to help staff the center. Contact the Chamber if you’re interested. Guest Speaker: Carol Togie – Park County Health Agency Carol Togie, Director of the Park County Health Agency, shared insights about the scope of services the agency provides, including: Infectious disease control (e.g., tuberculosis, typhoid, cholera) Motor vehicle safety initiatives Workplace safety efforts Vaccinations for uninsured children It’s important to note that the agency is not responsible for restaurant health inspections. STRIDE Community Health Center – Open Tuesdays The STRIDE Health Bus is available every Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Bailey Library. If the mobile unit ("Billy the Bus") is not parked outside, services are offered inside the Library’s Community Room. Services include: Sick visits and chronic care (e.g., diabetes, hypertension) Labs, wound care, and referrals On-site staff and MedPod technology for virtual visits Paperwork assistance and outreach support STRIDE is also available in Conifer on Tuesdays and Fridays at the Mountain Resource Center. Attend their open house on April 20 at 10:00 AM to learn more about available services. New: Platte Canyon University – Free Community Courses A new educational initiative is launching this spring through Platte Canyon University, offering free community courses on relevant local topics. Upcoming sessions include: Property Taxes 101 – May 22 at 6:00 PM, Fire Station Generative AI – Date TBD Insurance in the Mountains – What to know and how to prepare Bookkeeping Basics – Tips and tools for local entrepreneurs Stay tuned for more information and how to register. Chamber Launches HOMEGROWN: A Meetup for Home-Based Businesses If you're running a business from home—whether it’s a side hustle or your full-time gig—join us for HOMEGROWN , a new Chamber initiative just for you. Date : Wednesday, May 21 Time : 6:00 PM Location : Bailey Library Community Room, 350 Bulldogger Rd, Bailey This meetup offers a casual space to connect, exchange ideas, and grow your business alongside others who work from home. Come be part of a supportive, local network. If you'd like to get more involved, showcase your business, or attend future events, don’t hesitate to reach out or visit our website for the latest updates: Chamber Website: https://www.plattecanyonchamber.org Email: info@plattecanyonchamber.org

Member Spotlight: Jim & Daphne Myers – The Sasquatch Outpost 

This month’s Chamber meeting highlighted the incredible progress happening across our community—from new resource launches and upcoming events to exciting ribbon cuttings and valuable educational opportunities. Here's your full update: Shepherd of the Rockies Annual Plant Sale – May 17 Mark your calendars for this year’s plant sale at Shepherd of the Rockies Church on Saturday, May 17, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM , located at 106 Rosalie Rd., Bailey, CO 80421 . The sale features a wide selection of indoor and outdoor plants, including geraniums, petunias, morning glories, nasturtiums, tomatoes, alyssum, hoya carnosa, succulents, coleus, spider plants, aloe vera, mother of millions , and more. In addition, shoppers can find books, gardening tools, pots, and other gardening-related items. Proceeds benefit the church and its outreach. 2025 Seniors Alliance of Platte Canyon Resource Directory The updated Seniors Alliance Resource Directory is now available and packed with essential resources and services to help seniors in the Platte Canyon area stay connected and supported. Directories can be picked up at the new Bailey Visitor Center or at participating local businesses. Browse the full directory online at: https://seniorsalliance.org/resource-directory/ Platte Canyon Health Service District – Public Hearing May 14 The Platte Canyon Health Service Committee is working on getting a proposal for a Health Service District on the ballot to help shape the future of local healthcare access. A public hearing will take place May 14 at 3:00 PM at the BOCC office in Fairplay. Community members can also participate via Zoom from the Bailey Library. Learn more at: plattecanyonhealthmatters.com John Reynolds Reenactment – April 24 Join local historian Jim for a powerful reenactment of John Reynolds at the Bailey Library on April 24. This live performance brings local history to life and offers an engaging experience for all ages. Bailey Theatre Company – A Tuna Christmas Opens May 29 The Bailey Theatre Company kicks off its season with A Tuna Christmas, running May 29 through June 8 at the Bailey Theater. Use promo code PCAC20 at checkout to receive $8 off your ticket. Tickets are available at: https://www.baileytheatrecompany.org/ Boys & Girls Club of the High Rockies – $20,000 Raised! Thanks to the success of this year’s Great Futures Gala, the Boys & Girls Club of the High Rockies raised $20,000 to support youth programs across the mountain community. Learn more or donate at: https://bgchr.co/ Mudbugs, Music & Mingling – May 20 at Chimney Doctors Join us on May 20 at 5:00 PM at Chimney Doctors, 280 Main Street, Bailey, for a lively evening of music, networking, and crawfish. Sponsored by Chimney Doctors and Ginger Williams, Realtor , this event is open to non-Chamber business owners as well. Live music will be provided by Joe Bye & Friends . Deep Woods Sasquatch Escape Room – Ribbon Cutting June 7 The new Deep Woods Sasquatch Escape Adventure will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, June 7, at 149 Main Street in Bailey. The ribbon cutting will take place at 2:00 PM , and all are invited to attend. The escape room promises a slightly spooky, team-based adventure with a Sasquatch twist. Follow their progress and listen to the podcast at: https://www.youtube.com/@sasquatchoutpost2025 Bailey Visitor Center – Now Officially Open It’s official: The Chamber has received the keys to the new Bailey Visitor Center from Commissioner Amy Mitchell. The center, located in downtown Bailey, includes restrooms, picnic tables, trash service, and visitor signage. Special thanks to Shirley Septic for donating and maintaining two portable restrooms. The Chamber is currently seeking volunteers to help staff the center. Contact the Chamber if you’re interested. Guest Speaker: Carol Togie – Park County Health Agency Carol Togie, Director of the Park County Health Agency, shared insights about the scope of services the agency provides, including: Infectious disease control (e.g., tuberculosis, typhoid, cholera) Motor vehicle safety initiatives Workplace safety efforts Vaccinations for uninsured children It’s important to note that the agency is not responsible for restaurant health inspections. STRIDE Community Health Center – Open Tuesdays The STRIDE Health Bus is available every Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Bailey Library. If the mobile unit ("Billy the Bus") is not parked outside, services are offered inside the Library’s Community Room. Services include: Sick visits and chronic care (e.g., diabetes, hypertension) Labs, wound care, and referrals On-site staff and MedPod technology for virtual visits Paperwork assistance and outreach support STRIDE is also available in Conifer on Tuesdays and Fridays at the Mountain Resource Center. Attend their open house on April 20 at 10:00 AM to learn more about available services. New: Platte Canyon University – Free Community Courses A new educational initiative is launching this spring through Platte Canyon University, offering free community courses on relevant local topics. Upcoming sessions include: Property Taxes 101 – May 22 at 6:00 PM, Fire Station Generative AI – Date TBD Insurance in the Mountains – What to know and how to prepare Bookkeeping Basics – Tips and tools for local entrepreneurs Stay tuned for more information and how to register. Chamber Launches HOMEGROWN: A Meetup for Home-Based Businesses If you're running a business from home—whether it’s a side hustle or your full-time gig—join us for HOMEGROWN , a new Chamber initiative just for you. Date : Wednesday, May 21 Time : 6:00 PM Location : Bailey Library Community Room, 350 Bulldogger Rd, Bailey This meetup offers a casual space to connect, exchange ideas, and grow your business alongside others who work from home. Come be part of a supportive, local network. If you'd like to get more involved, showcase your business, or attend future events, don’t hesitate to reach out or visit our website for the latest updates: Chamber Website: https://www.plattecanyonchamber.org Email: info@plattecanyonchamber.org

Blossoming Boutique: More Than a Plant Store, It’s a Gift to Bailey

Our April 8th Chamber meeting was full of exciting announcements, community updates, and upcoming events. Here’s a quick rundown of everything you need to know: Member & Guest Introductions Mountain Women in Business Events & Opportunities: Check their Community Events Calendar for upcoming workshops, networking sessions, and more. Craft Mountain Brewing LLC Summer Fest: Scheduled for June 27–29, featuring live music, a multi-stop tour of Bailey (6–8 stops), vendor booths, and a game card to track progress. Complete your tour for a chance at a grand prize. Bailey Theatre Company First Show of the Season: A Tuna Christmas opens on May 29. Ticket Subscription: Enjoy discounted ticket prices by purchasing a subscription for the season. McGraw Park Walking Map: A new walking map is being produced this year. Open Houses: Ten houses will be open for tours. John Reynolds Reenactment: Held at the Bailey Library on May 24. Garden Volunteers: McGraw Park is seeking volunteers to help maintain their gardens. Life Bridge Food Bank Easter Basket Donations: Each “basket” of food costs $60 and will help feed local families for Easter. Goal: Serving an estimated 180 families this year. Sasquatch Outpost Escape Room: Opening in June with a Sasquatch theme. It’s a bit spooky—recommended for teams of up to six people. American Legion Meeting: April 10 at 6 PM at the Lutheran Church on Rosalie Road. Legion Breakfast: Next one is on May 4; all-you-can-eat for $12. PeaceWorks Spring Gala: May 31, 5–8 PM. Tickets: Available via their website: Upcoming Events - PeaceWorks Inc (check “Spring Gala” details). Boys & Girls Club of the High Rockies Great Futures Gala: April 27, 4:30–7:30 PM at Lone Rock Retreat. Tickets: Purchase online at Boys & Girls Club of the High Rockies | Kindful . The Truth About Senior Living Communities Zoom Call: Learn about modern senior living options. Register: MWinB Zoom Meeting – The Truth About Senior Living Communities (scroll for registration link). General Meeting Notes Bailey Visitor Center: On track for an opening soon. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is in the works; details TBD. Stride Healthcare in Bailey: Mobile healthcare bus/library community room every Tuesday, 10 AM–2 PM. More days may be scheduled if demand increases. Platte Canyon School District: Renovations for the middle school are on schedule for August. State assessments take place in April. Community news can be included in the district’s weekly Friday update—contact Mike Schmidt to submit. Platte Canyon Fire Protection District: Classroom Use: Not fully repaired, but available. Call 303-838-5853 for scheduling. Grant for Right-of-Way Mitigation: Work continues on major arteries. Chipping: Not yet available (no grant secured). You must call to be on the waitlist; placing slash by the road will not guarantee service. Chief Davis Scholarship: Applications open now, with awards mid-May. Call 303-838-5853 to apply. CHANCES Scholarship: Accepting applications. Learn more at Chances Silent Auction | Platte Canyon Area Chamber for ways to support. May Chamber Mixer: Scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, 5:30–7 PM at Chimney Doctors. Beautify Bailey: Mural Project: Paint-by-number murals planned for the Main Street side of China Village and the Hwy 285 side of the apartments at China Village. Volunteers are encouraged to join—this promises to be a fun community event! FAB (Fire Adapted Bailey): Presented on Mountain Pine Beetles. Visit their website for prevention tips: Mountain Pine Beetle – FIRE ADAPTED BAILEY . Get Involved & Stay Informed Whether you’re interested in attending local events, volunteering, or helping fund community projects, there’s a place for everyone! Keep an eye on the Chamber’s communications, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to be more involved. Contact the Chamber: info@plattecanyonchamber.org Visit Our Website: Platte Canyon Chamber of Commerce Thank you to all our members and guests who attended the April 8th meeting. We look forward to seeing you at our next Chamber event!

For over four decades, Crow Hill Insurance has been a trusted resource for Bailey residents and businesses. Founded in 1982 by Duke and Peg Dozier, the agency was later taken over by Gail Crawford, who has dedicated 30+ years to serving the community. Now, as Gail transitions toward retirement, Bryan Hutchison is stepping in to continue Crow Hill's legacy of exceptional customer service and personalized insurance solutions.