Here's Why Local Is the Way To Go

Shop local - you hear it, but why should you? And more importantly, are you?

Here's this week's example of the why...

Bear Creek Coffee started out as a dream for local residents Stephen and Kristee Frazee. That dream came with a philosopy, "there is a level of love and care for our customers", said Kristy.

Since first opening their doors around 10 years ago, the dream has had a few "changes". It was a year ago the Frazees opted to "share their space" with another family venture Good Dogs/Hotdogs. Nathan and Erica Engleman and their daughter, Cherie moved their eatery from a remodeled mobile unit to the brick and mortar location in March of 2025.

But the story doesn't end there...

A family philosophy  in this venture could be "there's always room for one more." Tortuga Brewery moved in to also share the space this month. And the three went from Bear Creek Coffee to "The Creek".

Perhaps Kristy said it best when she told the Ulysses News last year, "we do what we can to make it special with personal touches. ...it’s more than just a meeting spot or an eating spot."

And so it is - it's a place where everyone may not know your name, but if you are a regular customer the staff knows what you want.

A recent visit to the local hot spot was a perfect example. I parked my car, went inside and there was a new face at the register to take my order. The young lady behind her said, "I've got it - I saw you coming." She had seen me get out of my car and immediately started the order - now that's customer service.

Just a note - I really am a creature of habit for many things - my fave is the iced Chai.

Some other awesome choices from the menu: Pa's Favorite Egg Sandwich, Avocado Toast, loaded fry chips, German Potato salad, the Elk Burger - hotdogs of pretty much every palate craving and so much more.

And now, patrons can come in, visit and have a brew.

These could very quickly and easily become a triple bonus choice - Bear Creek Coffee, Good Dogs/Hotdogs and Tortuga Brewery - and you will find all three under one roof in Ulysses.