Pie Palooza was a Sweet Success!

The inaugural Pie Palooza fundraiser in Bailey was a runaway success, bringing together bakers, bidders, and pie lovers for a day of fun, flavor, and community spirit. Held Saturday, October 18 at Glen Isle Resort, the event exceeded all expectations, drawing more than 80 attendees — a remarkable turnout for a first-year event.

A total of 31 bakers each brought two pies — one for tasting and judging and one for the live auction — plus another 8 bakers contributed single pies for auction and on top of that we had a few celebrity pies. Guests enjoyed sampling a wide variety of sweet and savory creations, bidding on pies in the auction, and participating in a lively silent auction.

The Pie Palooza event was organized as a fundraiser to support the Platte Canyon Health District Committee in its continued efforts to bring improved healthcare access to the Platte Canyon area.

Three expert judges had the enviable yet difficult task of sampling and evaluating every entry:

•   Yvonne Lipson – Rotarian, past family doctor, and local baking enthusiast known as the Conifer Cake Lady

•   Julie Flukiger – Owner of Aspen Peak Cellars and expert pie baker

•   Kristin Bullock – Owner of Mountain Mama Goods, known for her sought-after sourdough bread, cinnamon rolls, and cookies

After much deliberation, the judges crowned this year’s winners:

First Prize Winners (with Bragging Rights)

1. Cream Pies: Bob Jeffers – Sour Cream Raisin Pie

2. Fruit Pies: Zachary Nies – Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie

3. Savory Pies: Patty Lucy – Tomato Pie

4. Other Pies: Kim Stammer – Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

Our Best of Show winner was Kim Stammer for her Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

A special thank-you goes to Richard Elsner, former Park County Commissioner, for serving as the event’s auctioneer and keeping the bids—and laughs—rolling throughout the afternoon.

The event also featured the debut sale of a custom-created cookbook titled “Livin’ and Cookin’ in the Park.”

This 142-page collection features recipes from local residents, historic and modern images, and rich stories celebrating Park County’s heritage. The cookbook reflects countless volunteer hours and is a true tribute to the region—its people, history, and palate—all for a good cause.

The cookbook includes high-altitude recipes, photos showcasing local wildlife and scenery, and short histories chronicling westward expansion, gold discovery, and the area’s Native Ute roots. All proceeds benefit the establishment of a Platte Canyon Health Service District in northeast Park County. If you’d like to purchase a copy of the cookbook, you can do so at Chill Squirrel Trading Company in Bailey, while supplies last. All proceeds benefit the establishment of a Platte Canyon Health Service District in northeast Park County.

Organizers were thrilled by the turnout and enthusiasm. “It went even better than we hoped,” Mary Anne Wesoloski said. “People told us it was one of the most fun community events they’ve been to — and they can’t wait for next year.”

If you were unable to attend but would like to support the effort, donations can be made at by clicking the donate button on this site.

With 31 bakers, dozens of delicious pies, and a room full of happy bidders, Pie Palooza has all the makings of a new Bailey tradition.