OCRA Community Blogs

Eureka Ice Conditions

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 06:22:00 -0800

Busy weekend over in Eureka. I counted 11 parties on Saturday and 9 today. Most things are in ok shape. We climbed the 2nd Gully on Sat., and Stairway today. Whorehouse, Highway to Hell, and Tempered by Fire are all in good shape as well.

Don on 2nd Gully.
Climbers at the base of 1st Gully.
The crux 3rd pitch of Stairway. Funky WI4+. More parties have bailed than have climbed this pitch so far.
Don at the top of the 3rd.The Stairway to Heaven, 900ft. WI4+ 12/7/08

I talked to a guy from Lake City who said the ice is pretty good over there.

OIPI will be evaluating the park condition on Wed., but it does not look good for opening weekend. There will be an update posted on the 13th regarding the park opening.

Think Cold!!! CC

Bridalveil Falls is IN!!!

Grey Squirrel — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:49:00 -0800

Greetings fellow ice enthusiasts!

The "ice addict" and I took a trip over to Telluride today to check out conditions on Bridalveil Falls. As many of you are aware, the climb is now legal (as of 12/5/08) so long as you follow some basic rules.

For starters, their is a mandatory climber register located near one of the mine buildings on the left side of the road; approximately 100m from where you park your car outside of the gated area. According to the register, we were the second party on the route this year. The initial registered party from Frisco climbed it on the first legal day last Friday. Strong work!!

There is no walking off of the route. It is mandatory rappel. There are new bolted rap stations on the 'climber's right' side of the climb. It would behoove you to look at the topo in the registration box for the station beta. We didn't. Made it a bit of an Easter Egg Hunt on the way down. No big deal.

Please play by the rules. If we abuse it, we'll lose it. Having not been on it since the last time it was legal around 2001 or so, I can tell you it stinks not having access.

Thanks to Steve, Damon and company in Telluride for getting the route open; and a big thanks to Idarado Mining Company for allowing us to play in your backyard!

We had heard that the climb might not be in and that the first pitch was suspect. It was certainly plenty spicy, but the ice was thick enough to take full depth screws (that sounds a bit odd doesn't it?).

The climbing was classic Bridalveil hard conditions with heady maneuvers around and over cauliflowered formations with eggshell top-outs. Very full value, but also reasonable.

Be forewarned that the first pitch path of least resistance is currently climbers right which puts you under a big steady drip; bring the shower cap for the deluge.

A great day on a great climb. It sure is nice to have winter back.

Respectfully submitted,

Grey Squirrel

P.S. Sorry for spacing the camera; it looks like it normally looks save for a bit thinner at the bottom.

Bridalveil

ice addict — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:51:00 -0800

Bridalveil is not only legal again, it is in. Grey Squirrel and I climbed it today. The center at the bottom still has a small hole through to the water. We went to the right to avoid the very thin veneer and found chandeliers topped with large cauliflowers to navigate around and over. There is a good belay cave at half height, followed by about another ten meters of spicy climbing and then it backs off and cruises to the top. The first pitch was one of the coolest pitches of pure ice I've climbed in a couple years.

Whorehouse Hoses

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 08:29:00 -0800

Guided the Whorehouse Hoses last Monday. The first pitch is in good shape. Nice WI3 on the left, sticker WI5- on the right, hollow in the middle. Nice work Don and Paige!Enjoy the snow? CC

Camp Bird Road Climbs

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 08:44:00 -0800

Camp Bird Climbs are in interesting shape. The Racing Stripes are the best routes around, but I wouldn't go over there this week with the snow! I heard someone climbed the Ribbon and BirdBrain, but neither look like they are worth it to me. All the Skylight climbs are doable but thin, don't expect any quality pro on the top-outs. Killer Pillar might be good soon! All routes had parties on them today.

Chockstone Chimney
The Skylight
Slip Slidin Away in 2 pitches? It goes with 1 60m rope.
Choppo's Chimney
Pocket-Pool Pablo Poking Pebbles.
Comp climbers warming up before they go send in the lounge.
Caio, CC.

General Conditions

San Juan Mountain Guides — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 21:35:00 -0800

The ice park opened on the 20th. Things are a little snowy and thin in the park, but good ice on the steeps. Explore a little, clean off some snow, and belay back from the ice.

A comp climber does his park to clean up the 07 Qualifier.

Outside the park, things are in variable condition. Everything is in at the Skylight, but has some snice plastered to most routes. Gravity's Rainbow and Kennedy's have been getting climbed, and it looks like Gravitational Pull would go. Skyrocket is in and offers a nice get away close to town. Cascade is frozen, though I haven't heard of an ascent yet. Dexter Slabs look all together, but I haven't made the trek up there to see first hand.

Cheers, CC

Gravity's Rainbow

San Juan Mountain Guides — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 09:08:00 -0800

Climbed Gravity's Rainbow on Saturday. There were three parties and everyone knew how to work together to share the fun.

A couple local boys start up the last pitch.

It was in super shape despite a fresh snice layer, which I was obliged to plow through. Kevin was on it today and said it was getting slushy. It may be done till the next cold cycle.

Cheers, CC

Bridalveil Falls

San Juan Mountain Guides — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:05:00 -0800

Guided Bridalveil today. It was good. We climbed the fresh left pillar, it looked like most folks had headed up the right hummocks. Only 6 parties had signed in as doing the route so far this year. Both lines are WI5.
Halfway up the steep opening pillars.
Rounding the corner into the first cave.
The final 30m headwall of sweet WI4.
It's open. Come and get it.
CC

ice addict — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 21:48:00 -0800
Leading Pitch 3
A good view of Pitches 1 and 2.

Stephen following pitch 1.

Climbed Ames Ice Hose on December 31. Pitch 1 is unusually fat this year. I was able to get 13-16cm screws all the way up. The second pitch was rumored to be full of snice and kinda sketchy, but the a team the day before did a fine job of cleaning out all the garbage and now it is in excellent shape and fuly protectable with screws. The only negative of the whole day was that someone has removed the pitons above pitch 2, so until they are replaced you need to belay from the ice with screw, which places the belayer in a less protected location.Pitch 3 is fat as always.

San Juan ice conditions

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 23:13:00 -0800

The fest was good this year. The clinics went smooth despite unpredictable river conditions. I've been out in the backcounty a bunch since then and there are some great conditions on many routes. Stairway to Heaven is especially fat and sticky, and folks have been climbing Goldrush and others in Eureka. The Ames Ice Hose is still good. The first pitch is beat out, hard to find anything to swing into. The last pitch is well traveled as well, but very good. Should have a few more days of mild weather to enjoy.

Cheers, CC

February Ice Conditions

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 10:53:00 -0800

It's been a while since we've seen significant snow, but the ice is great! The park is super fat and sticky. Skylight climbs are good. Ames is getting bigger, Bridalveil is a highway. Stairway and Whorehouse are in good shape.

I haven't heard of anyone climbing the Talisman yet.

Mad Props to Dawn Glanc for winning the comp this year! She deserved it, hardest working woman in ice climbing, not to mention the best handshake!

I've been slugging it out all over the San Juans lately. Closing in on 75 days for the season, a little slow, but plenty of season left.

Cheers, CC

Ouray Colorado Away.com article

Karen Avery — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 09:56:00 -0700

http://away.com/features/top-ten-active-baby-boomer-vacations-colorado-hiking.html features the Beaumont Hotel, the Ouray Hot Springs pool and the Box Canon Falls as a favorite for active vacations.

There are many more hiking trails and you can see details at http://www.ouraytrails.org or contact the Visitor Center in Ouray for more details.

Ouray Conditions

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 22:01:00 -0700

Well, the ice season is over here in Ouray. Although we are continuing to get snow every couple of days. The skiing is good in spots and funky in others. I have been fielding a bunch of inquiries about mountaineering lately, but haven't been super optimistic. We are still in a winter snow environment, so skis or snowshoes and full avi kit are needed to get to the top of most anything in the San Juans. If you are keen and hardy there are lots of good ski mountaineering objectives available for 1 to 3 day trips to the high peaks. I've benn trying to rock climb as much as possible, and the Pool Wall has been quite nice, as have some desert locations.Cheers, CC

Canadian Rockies Trips

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 22:12:00 -0700

Recently got back from a couple weeks of ice climbing in the Canadian Rockies. Started off with a week of guiding classics like Guinness Stout, Murchison Falls, Professor Falls, Louise Falls, and This House of Sky. We happened to hit an extreme cold snap for a few of the days, but we persevered and survived despite many rounds of the screaming barfies.

Paul on the way down Professor Falls after cruising the route in fine style. Congrats!

After that Kevin came up and met me to try some alpine lines, but conditions were not good in the higher mountains so we opted for a few classic water ice routes instead. Overall we had a great week. Here are a few shots of our favorites.

Bourgeau Left-Hand WI5

The Sorcerer WI5+

3rd pitch of The Sorcerer

Curtain Call WI6-

Red Man Soars M6+ WI5Whiteman Falls WI5+

Now I've got a couple weeks to get warm before I head back to Alaska for a few trips. Cheers, CC.

Ouray Chamber Chat

Lora — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 01:23:00 -0700

April 15, 2009

IN THIS ISSUE:

Feature: Hungry? Backstreet Bagel OPEN 7am-6pm and Timberline Deli OPEN 11am-7pm ! The Buen and Bon Ton are your dinner hot spots!
MOVIE NIGHT! The Reader - Presented by the Ouray Movie Club this Friday
"Inspirational and Awareness" Documentary Film Series
The Hot Springs Pool closed April 13 -19, Weisbaden & Orvis OPEN!
Parent Prevention Night
After-Prom Party at the Western Hotel
"Photoshop Elements 6/7 WOW!" Class
Local Business Expo featuring YOU?… Registration information and more!
"Paws for Music"
2nd Annual Shred Event in Ridgway and Ouray!
"Favorite Music from the Movies" special performance at the Wright Opera House
Free training offered for non-profit organizations and board development.
Who is CLOSED and OPEN...Peak to Peak Bicycles Tuesday-Saturday 9-6
May and Summer Days! Mark your calendars: State Liquor License Workshop
Members links... if you are not listed and would like to be, just let us know!

Feature: The Ouray Chamber in partnership with the Ridgway Chamber are hosting a Business Expo at the 4H Center in Ridgway. It runs from 8:00am to 4:00 pm and let's business owners showcase their business or service. Mark your calendar to participate or to attend!

Friday, April 17th, The Reader - Presented by the Ouray Movie Club
Showtime: 7 p.m.
Doors: 6:30 p.m.
Place: San Juan Room - Ouray Community Center, Ouray, CO
Starring: Kate Winslet & Ralph Fiennes
Director: Stephen Daldry
Runtime: 124 min.
MPAA Rating: R|Parental Guide

Academy Award-Won-Best Actress-Kate Winslet
Golden Globe-Won-Best Supporting Actress-Kate Winslet
"[Winslet's] fierce, unerring portrayal goes beyond acting, becoming a provocation that will keep you up nights." - Pete Travers - Rolling Stone

Synopsis: When Michael is fifteen he has a brief but heated affair with Hanna, a woman in her mid-30's who finds him sick and feverish in the street and cares for him. Nearly a decade later in Post-WWII Germany, Michael has become a law student and is astonished to find Hanna had become a Nazi prison guard and was on trial for murder. He discovers a secret that might affect her sentencing but is too ashamed of their affair to come forward.
[Official Site]
[Trailer/Short Feature] http://www.apple.com/trailers/weinstein/thereader/
Note: Everyone is welcome at $7.50 per ticket. 2009 Movie Club members may use their punch cards.

Thurs. April 18th, 2009 Top of the Pines presents an "Inspirational and Awareness" Documentary Film Series
"Power Paths"
Power Paths is an inspiring documentary about how Native American communities are creating new ways to produce clean power as the Tribes attempt to restore lands devastated from the impacts of coal mining.
for more info on film, visit www.powerpaths.org. All shows will be held at the Sherbino Theater 6:30-9:30. film starts at 7:15 $8 donation.

The Hot Springs Pool will be
closed for cleaning and general maintenance: April 13 through April 19, 2009 , June 23, 2009 , August 25, 2009 , October 19 through October 25, 2009

THURSDAY April 23, Parent Prevention Night, Learn how to talk with your kids about substance use. Ouray Community Center 6:30pm. Sponsored by Voyager Youth Program and Juvenile Diversion. For more info: 626-4279

SATURDAY April 25, After-Prom Party at the Western Hotel, Ouray, 11:30pm-2:00am Casino night for students with food, drinks, games and give-aways. Sponsored by Voyager Youth Program and Juvenile Diversion. For more info: 626-4279

Saturday, April 25: Steve Traudt's "Photoshop Elements 6/7 WOW!" Class - April 25
Sign-up by Monday the 13th to get into the class at a discounted rate! Photoshop Elements 6/7 WOW! Saturday, April 25, 2009 9 am - 4:30 pm. Price for those registering by April 13: $126 for Weehawken members or $140 for non-members, After April 13, $140 member /$154 non-member. For more information contact Ashley King: 970-318-0150
wcaouray@yahoo.com

Saturday, April 25: -- Business Expo
The Ouray Chamber in partnership with the Ridgway Chamber are hosting a Business Expo at the 4H Center in Ridgway. It runs from 8:00am to 4:00 pm and let's business owners showcase their business or service. Admission is free to the general public. There is limited booth space available so contact the Ridgway Chamber at 626.5181 or racc@ridgwaycolorado.com to reserve your spot. NO FORMS NECESSARY! This event that will showcase our diverse local businesses and services. The cost to participate is $45 for RACC members, $100 for non-members! This secures a 10'X10' space for your presentation. The event will be held from 8 am-4 pm at the 4-H Event Center. Yet another benefit of being a OCRA or RACC member! This event will be free to the public.

We are going to ask folks to come and attend and learn about all the products and services that we have in our county ... Think LOCAL in all your purchasing decisions!

April 25^th - "Paws for Music" Canceled!

April 25^th 2^nd Annual Shred Event……
Protect yourself from Identity Theft! We will be providing a shred truck for anyone who has paperwork they would like to shred.

Alpine Bank in Ridgway Saturday, April 25, 2009

119 Liddell Drive • Ridgway 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

917 Main Street • Ouray 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

April 26: THE MONTROSE COMMUNITY BAND AND FRIENDS OF THE WRIGHT OPERA HOUSE PRESENT

"Favorite Music from the Movies"

Sun., April 26, 2009, 3 PM,

Wright Opera House, Ouray, CO

Director Emcee

Toby King Jim Opdahl

Tickets: $10 (Fundraiser for FWOH & MCB)

Available at Buckskin Booksellers, Ouray

Cimarron Books & Coffeehouse, Ridgway

Or call John Ast, 325-7255/901-8455

Wednesday, April 22: Free training offered for non-profit organizations and board development. Area non-profits are invited to attend a free Board Development Seminar. Event is to be held at the Montrose Regional Library 1:30pm. Brown Bag Luncheon with guest speaker Noel Hagan. To register or for more info, please call Melanie Hall 901-6575, montrosecommunityfoundation@gmail.com

April Closures… and… who IS open:

Retail: The Blue Pear will be closed from Easter Sunday, April 12 through April 30 to freshen up and rejuvenate for the upcoming season.

OPEN: Peak to Peak Bicycles OPEN Tuesday thru Saturday 9-6

The Coachlight
Tavern
will remain OPEN thru the month of April on Friday,

Saturday, & Sundays at 5:00 p.m. The Coachlight Restaurant will then open 7 days a week starting in May.

Restaurants Closed: Bistro at Billy Goat Gruffs Closed Sunday April 12th thru Monday April 27^th.

Bulow's Bistro Closed March 30- May 7.
O'Briens Closed April 6- April 29.

Outlaw
is Closed from Monday the 13th -Thursday the 16th
Open Friday the 17th regular days and hours.

Historic Western Hotel: Open May 15 details coming soon!

Bistro at Billy Goat Gruffs: We are going to a 5 day schedule until summer (when we'll go back to at least 6). So, we will be open Tuesday thru Saturday, closed on Sunday and Monday. We're open at 5pm daily, and we have gone back to our one weekly special "Thirsty Thursdays" with $2 drafts all night (we aren't running any of the other specials we were doing during the winter). For this summer, we are planning to do lunch and dinner in the Bistro, as well as extended hours for the Biergarten. I'll get you that information when we get a bit closer, but I wanted to put a bug in your ear! We may also be adding a 'play' area in the Biergarten to be a bit more family-friendly down there, and give the kids somewhere to stay busy while their parents have a Liter :)

May and Summer Days:

May 1, 2 at 7 p.m. & May 3 at 2 p.m. Ouray High School presents: Little Shop of Horrors a musical comedy by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken Rated PG13. Tickets are $7.00 adults and $4.00 students
Ouray School Stage. For more information call Director Nancy Nixon, 970-325-4505 ext 46.

Monday, May 11, 2009: State Liquor License Workshop 11 am -3 pm, Ouray Community Center. Please register by May 1. for State Liquor Workshop!

Who should attend: special events permitees, local gov. staff, bartenders, servers and liquor licensees. To register or for more information please contact Kathy Elmont, 325-7061 or elmontk@ci.ouray.co.us.

Ouray Beautification Committee:

· "Spruce-up Ouray": Saturday, May 16, 2009; from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM AND Sunday, May 17, 2009; from Noon to 4:00 PM.

· Committee meetings - monthly, the second Wednesday, beginning at 3:30 PM in the Community Center's San Juan Room.

Monday, May 11, 2009: State Liquor License Workshop
11 am -3 pm, Ouray Community Center. Who should attend: special events permitees, local gov. staff, bartenders, servers and liquor licensees. To register or for more information please contact Kathy Elmont, 325-7061 or elmontk@ci.ouray.co.us.

May 12: Job Fair to be hosted at the Ouray School! Details coming soon! This event is open to the public and we encourage you all to recruit or look for a job at this event. Hosted in part by Ouray School, Community Development Committee, OCRA and the Ridgway Chamber of Commerce.

Ouray Trail Group: Work days: Every Monday and Thursday beginning Monday, May 18, 2009 and ending Thursday, September 17, 2009. Contact: Phil Wolkin @ 325-4368. Meetings monthly (April – September) – the third Tuesday, beginning at 9:30AM in the Community Center's San Juan Room.

Wed, May 20: Business After Hours: The Blue Pear and the Friends of the Wright Opera House. 5:30-7:30. This event is open to all chamber and citizen members.

May 30: Adoptathon at the SCHS shelter in Ridgway.

Thursday, June 4, Ouray Farmers Market, 2-6 pm. Contact Ouray Farmers Market:
Details coming soon! For more information or to participate in the planning, serving on the board, volunteering, etc. please contact: ourayfarmersmarket@ gmail.com

June 17, Business After Hours: Ouray Mule and Carriage. 5:30-7:30. This event is open to all chamber and citizen members.

July 18^th - "Paws for Art" : Formerly the Fur Ball, this new Fun-raiser has been upscaled to a casually elegant early evening event featuring a Live Art Auction, complimentary wine, beer, appetizers and live music. Although this event is to benefit homeless dogs (and cats), dogs will not be attending this year as they tend to get unruly when they drink too much wine. However, pet lover or not - you won't want to miss this Art Auction – with artist contributions of all genres this will be a uniquely fun evening at the Telluride Conference Center in Mountain Village.

July 24-26: The Ouray Chalet Inn & Synergistic Visions Present...

San Juan Majesty Digital Photography Workshops with
Steve Traudt
and
Assistant
Dick Colby

Inspiration & Instruction in Ouray, Colorado!

Summer Wildflower & Landscape Workshop
&
Photoshop Elements July 24-26, 2009. $339. Join professional photographer Steve Traudt for an exciting photo workshop timed for the famous wildflower explosion. We begin Friday at 6 pm with a classroom session. Saturday is a full day of field trips, review sessions and more training, including some bonus Photoshop Elements work in the evening (bring your PC or Mac laptop computer loaded with Elements 6 or 7). We are back in the field Sunday morning with the workshop concluding about noon. Subjects covered include exposure control, close-ups/macro, panoramas, high dynamic range HDR, lighting, composition, depth of field and much more. Need a room too? Book at the Chalet Inn for special discounted workshop prices. You won't find a better value or more exciting workshop. Small class size for more one-on-one time including constructive reviews by Steve. More workshop details at: www.synvis.com

Announcing the First Annual Colorado Peace Ride

August 9 - 12, 2009 Colorado Peace Ride: Join this amazing tour along one of the 10 most scenic routes in the country! The Colorado Peace Ride is a 4-day, 238-mile tour along the entire San Juan Skyway loop: Peace Ride Route . Think sweeping vistas, epic climbs topping 10,000 feet and sweet stretches of downhill, beginning in historic Durango, with overnight stops at the hot springs of Ouray, the legendary town of Telluride and the grounds of the Sophia Peace Center in Dolores. This eco-friendly ride funds services for a wide range of causes, providing unique support in strategic planning, project facilitation, team building, and worker rejuvenation. The Peace Ride is a fully supported tour with an affordable entry fee of just $200, and Olympic rider and coach, Colby Pearce, has designed the training schedule. Ride limited to 500 cyclists so register online now! For more information: Colorado Peace Ride

September 25-27: Autumn Color Workshop
&
Photoshop Elements.
$359. Join Steve for a magical photo experience in Ouray at the height of autumn color. We begin Friday night at 6 pm with a lecture. Saturday features field trips and review sessions. Sunday morning is another field trip and after lunch is a special bonus of a hands-on Photoshop Elements class with some of Steve's favorite techniques. We conclude about 4pm. You'll learn composition, panoramas, HDR, exposure control, lighting and much more. Bring your laptop computer (PC or Mac) loaded with Elements 6 or 7. Need a room? Book at the Chalet Inn for special discounted prices. Small class size; less is more! See www.synvis.com
for details.

Requested links for the chamber chat:

Jeep road condition updates: http://soajeep.com/custom1.shtm
Newspapers: Ouray Plaindealer and Ridgway Sun - www.ouraynews.com and Ouray County Watch- www.watchnewspapers.com
Ouray Chamber Resort Association (OCRA) – www.ouraycolorado.com
Ouray County Performing Arts Guild (OCPAG) – www.ocpag.org
Ouray County Arts Association (OOAA) – www.ourayarts.org
Ouray County Historical Society: www.ouraycountyhistoricalsociety.org
Ouray Ice Park: http://www.ourayicepark.com
Ouray Trail Group - www.ouraytrails.org
San Juan Mountain Guides: New Classes www.ourayclimbing.com/
Weehawken Creative Arts (WCA) – www.weehawkenarts.org
Yankee Boy Conservation Association: http://www.yankeeboy.org

Ouray has a new Interactive Travel Brochure

Lora — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:10:00 -0700

The Ouray Chamber Resort Association has put together a virtual brochure with help from VacationFun.com.

Visit the Ouray interactive travel brochure now!

Browsing the interactive travel guide is easy and fun. It showcases all the attractions and activities that the destination has to offer.

Enjoy!

Camp Bird Road - Yankee Boy Access

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 04:32:00 -0700

I've been fielding a lot of questions about Sneffels and Yankee Boy Access, so i thought I would post what I know. The official opening is May 1. I'm not sure how far it will be plowed, but I would imagine at least until the Ruby Trust Mine. If you go, remember that the plow takes all precedent!

Do Not Block the Road!!! Only park where the plow can get around you. I.E. not at the very end of the plowed road where they can't get around to plow further. There are usually adequate pull-outs in strategic locations along the way.

Enjoy the spring skiing and mountaineering! Cheers, CC

Sunday Wall - Unaweep Canyon

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 04:39:00 -0700

Spent a nice day in Unaweep on Friday. We were all alone, as is usually the case here. We climbed the Standard route to Sundancer, and then finished with the top 2 pitches of High Exposure.

For those unfamiliar with the canyon, it is home to a bunch of great 1-4 pitch routes on interesting rock in a nice setting. Very Western. Check it out! CC.

Bachelor Syracuse Mine Tour Gets Mentioned

Karen Avery — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 04:55:00 -0700

In a story appearing in the Dallas Morning News about exploring the Colorado gold rush, the Bachelor Syracuse Mine Tour received a nice plug. Read about it here

Great Article from the Tampa Bay Tribune on Wild Flowers

Karen Avery — Sun, 03 May 2009 14:54:00 -0700

The Tampa Bay Tribune wrote a whole bunch of great stuff on viewing Wild Flowers in and around Ouray and had great things to say about San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours. Read all about it in this article that mentions both Telluride and Ouray.

http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/may/03/tr-wildflower-power/life/

Small Town, Big Dining

Karen Avery — Mon, 04 May 2009 13:24:00 -0700

Here is a great article on gocolorado.com on all the fantastic fare for those eating in Ouray. Check out the link.

http://www.gocolorado.com/Article.aspx?articleId=e62bd04d-dff9-4a70-ab84-04629725c261&type=Article

Culinary Retreat Offered in Ouray

Karen Avery — Mon, 04 May 2009 13:26:00 -0700

Weehawken Creative Arts Presents
A Culinary Retreat in Ouray, Colorado
with Sara Sharpe and the Box Canyon Lodge

June 9, 10 & 11, 2009

Learn Incredible Recipes in the Kitchen While Enjoying Ouray’s Scenic Beauty and Diverse Adventure Options!

Come to Ouray for a culinary retreat and experience you won’t soon forget. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and the smells and sights of spring while staying at the Box Canyon Lodge and learning from Weehawken Creative Arts’ most popular culinary instructor and chef, Sara Sharpe during a three-day culinary retreat! We leave plenty of time for you to head-out on your own to enjoy the sights and shops.

Day 1: Tuesday - June 9, 2009
5pm at A Secret Garden Bed and Breakfast in Ouray
Hors d’oeuvres You Won’t Soon Forget
On Tuesday night, you will enjoy libations, meet your classmates and enjoy a meal-sized portion of six different hors d’oeuvres. You will get the inside scoop from Sara on each of the items you will be enjoying. Students can expect to learn and see a demonstration of 4 of the 6 hors d’oeuvres they will be enjoying and will get a verbal instruction and recipe for the remaining 2 hors d’oeuvres. Recipes for every item on the menu will be shared and distributed.
Meal-sized sampling and reception from 5-6:20 / Class from 6:30 – 8:30
The menu will consist of:
*1) Maryland Crab Cakes with Chipotle Remoulade - demonstrated
*2) Raspberry Brie in Puff Pastry - demonstrated
*3) Spinach Boursin Pizzas - demonstrated
*4) Tenderloin of Beef Canapes with Artichoke-Arugula Garnish - demonstrated
5) Indonesian Chicken Sate – Recipes Given
6) Tilapia Sesame with Dill Sauce – Recipes Given

Day 2: Wednesday - June 10, 2009
Morning until 12:15 pm – Optional Jeep Tour ($54 + applicable taxes)
12:30 pm at A Secret Garden Bed & Breakfast in Ouray
Summer Fun – The Secrets of Great Summer Grilling
On Wednesday afternoon, join Sara on her beautiful patio for lessons in all of her favorite grilling techniques. Refreshments and meal sized portions included. Recipes on all menu items will be shared and distributed.
Instruction from 12:30 - 2:20 / Sit-Down Meal served at 2:30
The menu will consist of:
*1) Grilled Chicken Breasts with Sara’s special marinade
*2) Chipotle Sweet Red Pepper Sauce
3) Grilled Vegetable Pizza
4) Corn and Black Bean Salad
5) Roasted Asparagus
6) Lemon Mousse
*Sara will not demonstrate the marinade or the chipotle sauce due to time constraints but recipes will be shared

5 pm – 9 pm
Optional In-Town Community Event – Culinary Related – “A Taste of Ouray”
Tantalizing, delicious samplings of local cuisine with music and beverages – Nominally Priced!
Ouray Community Center, 320 6th Ave
Info: www.ouraycolorado.com or 1-800-228-1876

Day 3: Thursday - June 11, 2009
9 am – 12:30 pm - at A Secret Garden Bed & Breakfast in Ouray
Secrets of A Secret Garden Brunch
On Thursday, students will gather at A Secret Garden to learn Sara’s signature B&B brunch dishes. Sara will prepare a range of her famous brunch dishes served at her B&B and recipes and demonstrations will be provided. Meal-sized portions included. Recipes on all menu items will be shared and distributed.
Instruction from 9 am – 11 am / Sit-Down Meal Served at 11 am
The menu will consist of (all demonstrated):
1) Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Quiche
2) Oven-Baked French Toast
3) Apple-Oat-Oatbran Pancakes
4) Lavender Heart cookies
5) Champagne Punch
*Fruit and Juice are also on the menu

About the Instructor
Sara Sharpe began her culinary career as Director of the Cuisinart Test Kitchen in Stamford, Connecticut. She played a leading role in demonstrating the food processors that would soon find their way into American kitchens. Sara founded Sara Sharpe Catering in Miami, FL in 1978 and continues to own and run that company today. She has studied with French master chefs Michel Guerard, Jean Troisgros and Roger Verge.
Sara opened Secret Garden Bed and Breakfast and Fine Catering in Ouray in 2005. Her lovely home and gardens have been the site of many weddings retreats, reunions, and other events in the gorgeous setting of Ouray. Sara is one of Weehawken's most-popular and highest-rated instructors. Students who attend any of her classes rave about the experience and oftentimes come back again and again for more!

COST for this Experience:
Includes 3 learning workshops & meals -- 1 pool pass & 2 nights lodging & taxes
*Spouse Meal Rate: invite your spouse or partner to the meal portion of each class for $25/meal – *Must be arranged in advance (meal only – no instruction)
• Members Registering and Paying by May 25: $375
• Non-Members Registering and Paying by May 25: $380
• Members Registering or Paying after May 25: $380
• Non-Members Registering or Paying after May 25: $385
• LOCAL? Call WCA for local’s pricing.

Lodging at the Box Canyon Lodge:

*2 Nights Lodging (Additional nights can be arranged upon request at $89 + taxes)
With its peaceful location, clean, comfortable, nicely decorated rooms, meticulously-maintained grounds and warm, personal service, the Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs has become the home away from home for many of Ouray’s visitors. In addition to being a AAA three-diamond property, the Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs has been recognized by a variety of publications, receiving the “Award of Excellence” by the Colorado Connoisseur and Travel Holiday Magazine and was recognized in Sunset Magazine’s “Best of the West”.

The Box Canyon Lodge offers outdoor mineral hot springs tubs terraced on the mountainside immediately behind the lodge. Each of their redwood tubs offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. Revitalizing in these hot springs in this scenic setting is popular year-round. The temperatures in the hot tubs range between 103 and 108 degrees. Since the hot springs water is constantly flowing in and out, there is no need to use chemicals in our hot springs. Since children are usually present at the lodge, bathing suits are required when using the hot tubs.

Optional Day Trip:
Jeep Tour on the morning of Wednesday, June 10
$54 per person + applicable taxes
*Arrange with Weehawken in Advance, please!

Class Size is Limited!
Register today to save your space.

Chamber Chat - May 5th

Karen Avery — Tue, 05 May 2009 14:53:00 -0700

OCRA Chamber Chat

May 6, 2009

The Chamber will be CLOSED Wed, May 6! Please see our move schedule below.

IN THIS ISSUE:

Beaumont and the Voodoo Lounge
Cedar Hill Cemetery Clean up Day
Mother’s Day Brunch and Special Events/ update on Papillon
State Liquor License Workshop! Please preregister and attend!
Job Fair: get a job, hire an employee, hospitality training and more!
Community Climbing Wall Fundraiser
Living with Wildlife
Spruce-up Ouray
Ouray Trail Group: Work days
Business After Hours
Pastel Landscape Painting
Adoptathon
Spring Cleaning?
Business hours: some updates (not all, just the one’s that have been sent to the chamber)… but I see a lot of you are OPEN! Welcome back!
Summer Items
Who has been featured? http://www.dallasnews.com/ sharedcontent/dws/fea/travel/ unitedstates/stories/DN- goldrush_0426tra.ART.State. Edition1.1037193.html
http://www.gocolorado.com/ Article.aspx?articleId= e62bd04d-dff9-4a70-ab84- 04629725c261&type=Article

Feature and other notices: Catmando is at it again! Dave Leonardi made it into Yankee Boy Basin today May 5th. Record time and earliest in his career! Good news for the tourists and Ouray economy, perhaps not so good that our snow pack is low. Red Mtn Town is being worked on and Corkscrew. Stay tuned.

Priscilla Sherman
Photographer and Volunteer spotter

The chamber is moving BACK to 1230 Main

Closed to street traffic: Wed. May 6-Wed. May 13, 2009
Wed. May 6: Close 703 Main to finish packing all materials.

Thurs. May 7: . Move Crew .Volunteers Welcome! 10 am -4 pm.

Help load the trucks and clean the space we are vacating.

Friday: Open downstairs area with information and a bell.
(Volunteers needed to listen for the bell and help unpack 10am -4 pm any amount of time is helpful.)

Saturday/Sunday: Organize office space and begin lobby set up.

Volunteers welcome 10am -3pm.
Mon.-Tues: May 11 and 12: Prepare to open

We will open no later than Wed. the 13th, but will do our best to open sooner.

May 7th, Beaumont is opening both restaurants Bulow's from 7-11 a.m for express breakfast, lunch 11-2:30, a lite fare menu from 2:30-5:30, Dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 7 days a week through the summer. Voodoo Lounge(Tundra Bar) open 5-6:30 for 1/2 off appetizer special. Tundra dinner 5:30 to 9:30 Thursday - Monday. Through the summer.
Thank-you,
Mark Krasic

Saturday, May 9: Cedar Hill Cemetery Clean up Day! 9:00am. If the weather is wretched, another day will be named. Thanks, Glenda Moore

SUNDAY, MAY 10: Mothers Day!

Ouray Elks Lodge On Sunday, May 10^th, Ouray Elks Lodge #492 will present its annual Mothers’ Day recognition program and brunch. The program will take place at 1:00 PM in the Lodge Room. The public is invited. The program will consist of a short formal ceremony honoring our mothers, followed by a free brunch that includes crepes and punch. Carnations will also be presented to attendees, who are encouraged to share their thoughts and tributes to their mothers. For information call Bette Maurer at 325-0425.

Papillon on Main:. Jody is back and cooking up a feast for Mothers Day! Stop in for a very special buffet which includes an omelet station, New Orleans Boiled Shrimp, Eggs Benedict, Potatoes O’Brien, Dirty Rice, assorted desserts and more!. Located at 630 Main.

Open at 8 am. $22.95. 303-332-6921. Welcome back Papillon! Although there will be some bakery items for sale, it will be in a limited quantity. When they open for the season you may need to make a mad dash for your doughnut! Full schedule coming soon! Open May 14, 7 days a week until further notice. (winter hours will be in effect and announced later on).

Ouray County Performance Art Guild:

Sunday Salon
With Da Capo Areato

Sunday, May 10 at 1:00 p.m.
at the Hallmark Home on Log Hill

The Salon takes place at the home of Bill and Sybil Hallmark on the Log Hill escarpment, with panoramic views of the Ridgway Valley. Beginning at 1 p.m. guests will be treated to a gourmet luncheon prepared by Secret Garden Catering. Following that will be a performance by the Montrose-based Da Capo Areato duo of Jennifer Lockwood, cellist, and Carrie Stuckert, violinist.
Da Capo Areato is a versatile string duo that performs a variety of classical, Celtic and modern music. Their classical repertoire includes works by composers such as Bach, Mozart, Tchaikovsky and Dvorak. They also perform many styles of Celtic music including traditional Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton pieces, as well as modern acoustic arrangements from The Beatles to Metallica. Jennifer and Carrie also performed at last year's "Dave Baker and Friends" event at the Wright Opera House.

Tickets for this very special musical afternoon are $40, payable by check to OCPAG, P.O Box 14, Ouray. Directions to the Hallmark home will be mailed to ticket holders. For any further information, please call 970-626-2970. Our website at http://www.ocpag.org

Monday, May 11, 2009: State Liquor License Workshop 11 am -3 pm, Ouray Community Center. Who should attend: special events permitees, local gov. staff, bartenders, servers and liquor licensees. To register or for more information please contact Kathy Elmont, 325-7061 or elmontk@ci.ouray.co.us.

May 12: Job Fair to be hosted at the Ouray School 10:30 am -2 pm at the Ouray School Gym. Free Hospitality Training. Employers: $25 for a booth. This event is open to students and the community. Be ready to apply and interview! 626-5181 for more information. Hosted in part by Ouray School, Community Development Committee, OCRA and the Ridgway Chamber of Commerce.

THURSDAY May 14, Community Climbing Wall Fundraiser, Ouray Community Center, 6:30 pm - 11:00 pm, Event includes slide show by American Alpine President Jim Donini, silent auction, and music by Dust Storm Band. $15 entry, includes 1 drink ticket. More info call 318-8537

THURSDAY May 14: Living with Wildlife: Hi all, This is just a heads-up that I will be sending (probably tomorrow) an article on our next Living with Wildlife presentation on May 14 which will feature a return engagement by Sherri Tippie on beaver. I want to include new information on the benefits of beaver dams re water conservation, water quality, sediment collection, flood control, creating habitat for fish, waterfowl, and other wildlife, etc. With the current concern about water conservation and protecting the watershed, I think this will be of great interest to the community.

Thanks for your help,

Sara Coulter

San Juan Corridors Coalition

626-4496

Saturday, May 16, 2009; · “Spruce-up Ouray”: from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Details TBA. Ouray Beautification Committee:

Committee meetings - monthly, the second Wednesday, beginning at 3:30 PM

in the Community Center’s San Juan Room.

Sunday, May 17, 2009; “Spruce-up Ouray”: from Noon to 4:00 PM. Details TBA

May 18, 2009 : Ouray Trail Group: Work days: Every Monday and Thursday beginning Monday, May 18, 2009 and ending Thursday, September 17, 2009. Contact: Phil Wolkin @ 325-4368. Meetings monthly (April – September) – the third Tuesday, beginning at 9:30AM in the Community Center’s San Juan Room.

Wed, May 20: Business After Hours: The Blue Pear and the Friends of the Wright Opera House. 5:30-7:30. This event is open to all chamber and citizen members.

On May 22, 23 & 24 Weehawken Creative Arts will present a "Pastel Landscape Painting" workshop with Doug Dawson in Ouray, Colorado.

May 30: Adoptathon at the SCHS shelter in Ridgway.

Spring Cleaning? Don’t forget about the Women’s Club Rummage Sale will be held June 19 and 20.

Retail: The Blue Pear will be closed from Easter Sunday, April 12 through April 30 to freshen up and rejuvenate for the upcoming season.

OPEN: Peak to Peak Bicycles OPEN Tuesday thru Saturday 9-6

Ouray County Historical Museum is OPEN Thurs- Sat. 10-4:30

The Coachlight Tavern will remain OPEN thru the month of April on Friday,

Saturday, & Sundays at 5:00 p.m. The Coachlight Restaurant will then open 7 days a week starting in May.

Outlaw is open for Burgers and Closed every Monday until Memorial Day. They will be closed on the last Sunday and Monday of the month possibly for a new water cooler that needs to be in by May 1s. News to follow...

The Outlaw will be having some exciting changes beginning Memorial Day week end. Happy Hour and appetizers.....possible late night week ends...Keep an eye out for the events to follow...

Historic Western Hotel: Open May 15 details coming soon!

Bistro at Billy Goat Gruffs: The Bistro at Billy Goat Gruff's will reopen for the summer season this Friday, May 1st! We will have our full Bistro menu back in place for Summer! So those of you missing your potato-wrapped Salmon or slow-smoked Ribs, come on down!

Beaumont is opening both restaurants Bulow's from 7-11 a.m for express breakfast, lunch 11-2:30, a lite fare menu from 2:30-5:30, Dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 7 days a week through the summer. Voodoo Lounge(Tundra Bar) open 5-6:30 for 1/2 off appetizer special. Tundra dinner 5:30 to 9:30 Thursday - Monday. Through the summer.
Thank-you,
Mark Krasic

Summer Days:

Thursday, June 4, (and every Thursday until mid-Sept.) Ouray Farmers Market, 2-6 pm. Ten or more local farmers, homemade breads, cheese and more. Sustainable workshops such as: solar dehydrators, make a bow drill, compostable seedling pots, salves, and more!! For more information or to volunteer, etc., please contact: Trevor or Erin- ourayfarmersmarket@ gmail.com. Sorry, no crafts.

June 17, Business After Hours: Ouray Mule and Carriage. 5:30-7:30. This event is open to all chamber and citizen members.

July 18^th - “Paws for Art” : Formerly the Fur Ball, this new Fun-raiser has been upscaled to a casually elegant early evening event featuring a Live Art Auction, complimentary wine, beer, appetizers and live music. Although this event is to benefit homeless dogs (and cats), dogs will not be attending this year as they tend to get unruly when they drink too much wine. However, pet lover or not - you won’t want to miss this Art Auction – with artist contributions of all genres this will be a uniquely fun evening at the Telluride Conference Center in Mountain Village.

July 24-26: The Ouray Chalet Inn & Synergistic Visions Present...

San Juan Majesty Digital Photography Workshops

with Steve Traudt and Assistant Dick Colby

Inspiration & Instruction in Ouray, Colorado!

Summer Wildflower & Landscape Workshop & Photoshop Elements July 24-26, 2009. $339. Join professional photographer Steve Traudt for an exciting photo workshop timed for the famous wildflower explosion. We begin Friday at 6 pm with a classroom session. Saturday is a full day of field trips, review sessions and more training, including some bonus Photoshop Elements work in the evening (bring your PC or Mac laptop computer loaded with Elements 6 or 7). We are back in the field Sunday morning with the workshop concluding about noon. Subjects covered include exposure control, close-ups/macro, panoramas, high dynamic range HDR, lighting, composition, depth of field and much more. Need a room too? Book at the Chalet Inn for special discounted workshop prices. You won’t find a better value or more exciting workshop. Small class size for more one-on-one time including constructive reviews by Steve. More workshop details at: www.synvis.com

Announcing the First Annual Colorado Peace Ride

September 25-27: Autumn Color Workshop & Photoshop Elements. $359. Join Steve for a magical photo experience in Ouray at the height of autumn color. We begin Friday night at 6 pm with a lecture. Saturday features field trips and review sessions. Sunday morning is another field trip and after lunch is a special bonus of a hands-on Photoshop Elements class with some of Steve’s favorite techniques. We conclude about 4pm. You’ll learn composition, panoramas, HDR, exposure control, lighting and much more. Bring your laptop computer (PC or Mac) loaded with Elements 6 or 7. Need a room? Book at the Chalet Inn for special discounted prices. Small class size; less is more! See www.synvis.com for details.

Closures… and… who IS open: This list is complied of information that was sent to the chamber. This is not a full list as openings are changing daily. Please contact the business you wish to visit for more information.

Requested links for the chamber chat:

Jeep road condition updates: http://soajeep.com/custom1. shtml
Newspapers: Ouray Plaindealer and Ridgway Sun - www.ouraynews.com;
Ouray County Watch- www.watchnewspapers.com
City of Ouray: (view City Council Agendas prior to the meetings) www.cityofouray.com
Ouray Chamber Resort Association (OCRA) – www.ouraycolorado.com
Ouray County Performing Arts Guild (OCPAG) – www.ocpag.org
Ouray County Arts Association (OOAA) – www.ourayarts.org
Ouray County Historical Society: www. ouraycountyhistoricalsociety. org
Ouray Ice Park: http://www.ourayicepark.com
Ouray Trail Group - www.ouraytrails.org
San Juan Mountain Guides: New Classes www.ourayclimbing.com/
Weehawken Creative Arts (WCA) – www.weehawkenarts.org
Yankee Boy Conservation Association: http://www.yankeeboy.org

Ouray Beautification Committee: Committee meetings - monthly, the second Wednesday, beginning at 3:30 PM in the Community Center’s San Juan Room.

Disclaimer: The Chamber Chat is a courtesy service. Our goal is to be short and readable with pass-along information and reminders. This service is being provided in lieu of forwarding e-mails directly to you. Thank you for reading our chat!

Mooses Tooth, Ham and Eggs

San Juan Mountain Guides — Tue, 12 May 2009 00:18:00 -0700

The Mooses Tooth, South FaceBill and I flew into the Root Canal Glacier on May 1st. On May 2nd, we blitzed Ham and Eggs to the summit of the Mooses Tooth in 13 hours roundtrip. On May 3rd, we flew out. Headed back in on the 19th.

Bill on the summit with Denali in the background.Bing, Bam, Boom. We had planned on a little more time in the range, but with mission accomplished we decided to call it a trip. The unseasonably warm temps had deterioriated conditions on most ice routes, so we were psyched to get one fine route in.

Cheers, CC

OURAY ELKS BINGO BEGINS JUNE 3RD

Lora — Thu, 28 May 2009 01:05:00 -0700

It's summertime, and that means Wednesday night Bingo at the Ouray Elks lodge. Games will be held at 7 PM every week, starting June 3rd. "Our weekly Bingo program was really popular last year," said program director Julie Wesseling. "It's really a fun evening for the whole family. We'll have light concession refreshments available, and the Progressive game is always exciting. These games are open to the public, and we hope to see a lot of our old friends, as well as new faces."

Income from Bingo supports a number of lodge programs, as well as helping to cover lodge upkeep.

Kort McCumber & McCumberland Gap to Play Wright Opera House

Lora — Fri, 29 May 2009 04:35:00 -0700

Tickets are now on sale for Ouray County's own prelude to the Bluegrass Festival. On June 17, at 7:30 pm, Kort McCumber and his band, McCumberland Gap will return to the Wright Opera House for another musical love fest with the audience. Their music is best described as "Americana" featuring a range of stringed instruments with equal parts of folk, bluegrass, country, blues and a healthy dose of something new and fresh. Kort and the McCumberland Gap Band weave a rich tapestry of musical skill and energy into each song with guitar, mandolin, banjo, harmonica, piano, bouzouki, cello, electric bass, upright bass, and more.

A limited list of Kort's many song writing accolades and invited performances include Colorado Songwriter of the Year, finalist in International Songwriting Competition, Flat Rock Music Festival Song Writing Competition, Sundance Festival, Jacksonville Symphony, Rocky Mountain Folk Festival, Nashville River Stages, and Boulder's Chautauqua Auditorium, Fox Theater and Boulder Theater.

The concert is sponsored by Citizen's State Bank to assist the Friends of the Wright Opera House in their effort to purchase the building and create a center for the arts for Ouray County to complement the existing retail activity present there. Tickets are $15 and are available in Ouray at Buckskin Booksellers, Khristopher's Culinaire, and Mouse's Chocolate; in Ridgway, at Cimarron Books & Coffee and in Montrose at Ouray Silversmith.

"We feel lucky to be able to get on to Kort's schedule and especially fortunate to have the Citizen's State Bank step forward to provide the sponsorship to make it possible to bring this band back to the Wright Opera House," notes Dee Williams, Friends board member.

Chamber Chat

Karen Avery — Fri, 29 May 2009 16:09:00 -0700

OCRA Chamber Chat: Annual Members Meeting will be held 6/03/09 at 9 am. Held at the Ouray Community Center! Meet the publishers of the 2010-2013 Visitors Guide and hear what the chamber had been doing for YOU!

May 29, 2009

The Visitors Center is currently seeking volunteers to assist with Visitors Services! Stop in for training (where is that map?) and share your stories of Ouray with visitors! 325-4746.

IN THIS ISSUE:

· Feature: Sierra Mccfarlane

· Trail update

· Arts Beat hosted by OCPAG

· Adoptathon

· Are you Gluten Free?

· Ouray Farmer’s Market

· Taste of Ouray: A Festival of Flavor!

· Culinary Retreat Experience

· 14^th Annual Love Your Valley Festival

· Corkscrew Railroad Bed and Turntable

· Evening of History "Ouray County Ranching Stories"

· Business After Hours: Ouray Mule and Carriage

· ANNUAL WOMENS CLUB RUMMAGE SALE!!

· Evening of History "The Mesker Iron Fronts on Ouray's Main

· Trio Solesti

· Evening of History "Lake Lenore"

· Who has been featured? This link that was aired on KOAA on 5/12/09 Go to this site and look at the Top Video Stories on the right side of the page and select “Amazing Ouray” from the selections below it. http://www.koaa.com/

· Summer Days of Play…BINGO, July events! Mark your calendar!

For a complete list visit OurayColorado.com

· Links

· A message from Mild to Wild Rafting

· 2009 OCRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

· Miss a feature? What is a radio pet fence?

Feature and other notices: Congratulations to Sierra Mccfarlane the 2009 Jeep Raffle Scholarship Recipient!

Does anyone need ink for HP88 Inks? If so, contact the chamber, we have some from a broken printer….

Trail Update: Upper Cascade Falls and Portland Trail are prime for Hiking right now!

Trails ready to hike (As at May 13th)

Although there may still be a few downed trees and lingering mounds of snow further up, particularly on the north and east facing slopes, the following trails are ready to hike:

Ouray Perimeter trail, Ice Park Loop, Corbett Creek/Dallas Trail, up to below the Aspens, Portland Mine, Sutton, to the large avalanche between the two creeks, Lower and Upper Cascade Falls, to the top ledge, Twin Peaks and Oak Creek, to the junction, Old Twin Peaks, Silvershield, Baldy, to the summit, Storm’s Gulch, Alpine Mine Overlook, to the junction until you encounter snow, Dexter Creek, for 1.5 miles and Bear Creek, to Grizzly Bear Mine. The Trail Group has completed work in the Amphitheater and moving on to several other trails in the next two weeks.

With unseasonably warm temperatures forecast for the next ten days, several other trails up to about 10,500 feet should begin to open up. Compliments of Kelvin Kent.

Friday, May 29 at 5:30 p.m.
A 3-course Progressive and Entertaining Dinner

5:30 - Appetizer at: the Kiva of Chipeta Sun Lodge (cash bar), catered by Secret Garden
Poetry Reading - Art Goodtimes, Poet, Activist, Mycologist
Art will read from his recent book "As If the World Really Mattered."

7:00 - Main Course at: Drake's Restaurant
Music - Ken Crombie Jazz Trio with John Tuttle and John Allen

8:30 - Dessert and Coffee at: Ridgway Public Library
Artist and exhibit - George Kernan, painter. Meet this fine local artist

Main course choices are:
Sliced Roast Beef with garlic mashed potatoes and vegetable
Spinach, Feta, and Tomato Souffle topped with cheese and served with rice
1/4 Herb Roasted Chicken served with rice and vegetable

Tickets: $50 per person (Spaces limited)
Call 626-2970 to reserve your place (by Wednesday, 5/27/09)
Our website at http://www.ocpag.org
contains an Event Calendar and biographies of other artists we are bringing to the county.
If you would like to become a member of OCPAG, you can find the membership form by clicking on this link: http://www.ocpag.org/members. htm

We appreciate your support!

May 30: Adoptathon Second Chance Humane Society is sniffing out good owners for homeless pets! On May 30th from 9:00am to 3:00pm the Second Chance Humane Society is hosting its annual Adoptathon! Come and meet some great dogs and cats. You’ll also enjoy music performed by Tony Rosario and the Pour Boyz! For more information please contact 626-2273.

Are you Gluten Free or is your diet as such?

-Tundra, Bulow’s- let your server know

-Bill Goats Gruff- let your server know

-Artisan Bakery-just ask!

-Papillons on Main – Call ahead and let them know

-Spangler House B&B- Call ahead and let them know (vegan and gluten free)

-Ducketts Market : has lots of available products which are wheat and gluten free. We are also open to bringing in new Wheat free or Gluten Free products on your faves list. Let us know we always welcome your feedback and we're all about happy tummies. 970-325-4397

-Ago Gallery has a new cook book that will be out this May 28th that has 200 gluten

free recipes in it as well as art work by Romagean. This book will be for sale

through Ago Gallery and San Juan Pottery.

June 10: Taste of Ouray: A Festival of Flavor! Culinaire and Wine Festival Ouray Community Center 4:30-9. Beverages provided by Colorado Boy Brewery, Ourayle House and Montaya Distilleries from Silverton, CO. Several Western Slope Wineries will be on hand as well! NA and gluten free beer too! ALSO there will be a book signing: “An Artistic Flavor” a gluten free recipe book by Romagene Person.

Massard Room:

4:30-7: Food service 5-9

5 – 7 Kids Creation Station: hosted by Weehawken Creative Arts

6:30 – 7:30: Mystery Box Culinary Cook-

San Juan Room:

5-9: Dessert Service and Musical and Theatrical Performances

Chameleon Ensemble 5-6:30

David Baker and friends 7:30-9

Our Proud Sponsors Include: Backstreet Bagel, Khristopher’s Culinaire, Ouray Performance Art Guild, The Western Hotel and Saloon, Ouray Chamber Resort Association and Red Hat Distribution.

On June 9, 10 and 11 Weehawken Creative Arts will present a "Culinary Retreat Experience" with Sara Sharpe and the Box Canyon Lodge in Ouray. During this three-day adventure, students will learn incredible recipes in the kitchen and enjoy a relaxing break in Ouray!

June 13^th 12pm – 6pm 14^th Annual Love Your Valley Festival

Music, food and fun for the kids! Enjoy great music by The Last Bus and High Plains, Micro Brew Sampling with a cool glass for $20 per person, delicious food provided by Blue Ribbon Barbeque and Sandy’s Kitchen. Fun and Games for the whole family! Doggie Obstacle Course, Chalk Walk Art and much much more!

June 13 – Corkscrew Railroad Bed and Turntable Hike – Sponsored by the Ridgway Railroad Museum and OCHS (guided $10 fee) Call: 970-325-4576 to reregister.

June 16 – Jane Bennett, Evening of History "Ouray County Ranching Stories"

June 17, Business After Hours: Ouray Mule and Carriage. 5:30-7:30. This event is open to all chamber and citizen members.

June 19 & 20 – ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE!! Sponsored by the Ouray Woman’s Club. Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 9am-2pm. Fantastic bargains! Clothing, antiques, furniture, books, and many more treasures. Ouray Community Center.

June 23 - Tom Hillhouse, Evening of History "The Mesker Iron Fronts on Ouray's Main Street"

June 26 – Trio Solesti – world renowned chamber music trio from New York, 7:30pm, 4-H Event Center, Ridgway, CO Info: www.ocpag.org

June 30 - Karen Griffiths, Evening of History "Lake Lenore", Ouray Historical Society

Summer Days: on going and dated:

WEDNESDAYS until Aug 26 OURAY ELKS BINGO, 7 PM at the Ouray Elks lodge. Open to the public.

July 4 - Old Fashioned 4^th of July Celebration - Parades, kids games, fire hose water fights, Elks Club BBQ, and spectacular fireworks display! Fun for the whole family!

July 7 - Don Paulson, Evening of History - "Late 19th and Early 20th Century Ouray Photographers"

July 10-12 – Hardrock Hundred Endurance Run in the scenic, rough mountains of SW CO.

July 14 – Carolyn Kelly, Evening of History - "Historic Ouray Homes"

July 15-18: FJ Cruiser Summit

July 21 - Tom Rosemeyer, Evening of History - "The Camp Bird Mine"

July 24-26: The Ouray Chalet Inn & Synergistic Visions Present...

San Juan Majesty Digital Photography Workshops

with Steve Traudt and Assistant Dick Colby

Inspiration & Instruction in Ouray, Colorado!

July 25, 26, 29 & 30- Diamond W Wranglers –Cowboy western singing group, 7pm, Wright Opera House. Western Music Album of the Year! Info, call John – 970-325-7255

July 31 - Artists Alpine Holiday – 49^th Annual National Juried art show. Enjoy the creative and unique art work of artists in various mediums–oils, watercolors, photography www.ourayarts.org

Summer Wildflower & Landscape Workshop & Photoshop Elements July 24-26, 2009. $339. Join professional photographer Steve Traudt for an exciting photo workshop timed for the famous wildflower explosion. We begin Friday at 6 pm with a classroom session. Saturday is a full day of field trips, review sessions and more training, including some bonus Photoshop Elements work in the evening (bring your PC or Mac laptop computer loaded with Elements 6 or 7). We are back in the field Sunday morning with the workshop concluding about noon. Subjects covered include exposure control, close-ups/macro, panoramas, high dynamic range HDR, lighting, composition, depth of field and much more. Need a room too? Book at the Chalet Inn for special discounted workshop prices. You won’t find a better value or more exciting workshop. Small class size for more one-on-one time including constructive reviews by Steve. More workshop details at: www.synvis.com

Announcing the First Annual Colorado Peace Ride

September 25-27: Autumn Color Workshop & Photoshop Elements. $359. Join Steve for a magical photo experience in Ouray at the height of autumn color. We begin Friday night at 6 pm with a lecture. Saturday features field trips and review sessions. Sunday morning is another field trip and after lunch is a special bonus of a hands-on Photoshop Elements class with some of Steve’s favorite techniques. We conclude about 4pm. You’ll learn composition, panoramas, HDR, exposure control, lighting and much more. Bring your laptop computer (PC or Mac) loaded with Elements 6 or 7. Need a room? Book at the Chalet Inn for special discounted prices. Small class size; less is more! See www.synvis.com for details.

Requested links for the chamber chat:

· Jeep road condition updates: http://soajeep.com/custom1. shtml

· Newspapers: Ouray Plaindealer and Ridgway Sun - www.ouraynews.com;

· Ouray County Watch- www.watchnewspapers.com

· City of Ouray: (view City Council Agendas prior to the meetings) www.cityofouray.com

· Ouray Chamber Resort Association (OCRA) – www.ouraycolorado.com

· Ouray County Performing Arts Guild (OCPAG) – www.ocpag.org

· Ouray County Arts Association (OOAA) – www.ourayarts.org

· Ouray County Historical Society: www. ouraycountyhistoricalsociety. org

· Ouray Ice Park: http://www.ourayicepark.com

· Ouray Trail Group - www.ouraytrails.org

· San Juan Mountain Guides: New Classes www.ourayclimbing.com/

· Weehawken Creative Arts (WCA) – www.weehawkenarts.org

· Yankee Boy Conservation Association: http://www.yankeeboy.org

· Ouray Beautification Committee: Committee meetings - monthly, the second Wednesday, beginning at 3:30 PM in the Community Center’s San Juan Room.

“A thunderstorm is God's way of saying you spend too much time in front of the computer”

So read the memo and get outside for a whitewater adventure. You’re going to get wet anyway, so don’t let the rain scare you away.

Mild to Wild Rafting

970.247.4789

2009 OCRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Karen Avery (2009/10) President

Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs
325-4981

Chris Bonatti (2007-2009) Vice President

The Outlaw Restaurant

HM: 325-4366

Nancy Wolkin (2009-2011)Treasurer

Denim of Antiquity

Store: 325-4924

Cell: 596-1079

Clint Boots (2008-2010) Secretary

Citizens State Bank

325-4478

Rob Megna (2008-2009)

Backstreet Bagel

Cell: 530-575-1333

Festival

Bill Leo (2007-2009)

Ouray Mountain Sports

325-4284

Jill Schoenebaum (2008-2010)

4 J+1+1 RV Park

w)325-4418 H) 325-4864

Rick Smith (2009-2011)

O’Brien’s Pub

325-4386

Michelle Poirer (2009-2011)

Blue Pear

325-9838

Cell: 252-256-4312

Miss a feature?

The Ouray County Historical Society is currently accepting entries for its annual photo exhibit "San Juan Memories". $5 per photo entry fee, ribbon winners from the past may not submit any previous prize winning photo, entries due by June 25, no more than three entries by any one artist, juried by Jack P. Arrington, Boulder, CO photographer. Opening July 8. Juried first place prize - $75, Juried 2nd place prize - $50, Juried 3rd place prize - $25. Peoples Choice Award - $25. Any single individual can only win one award. Contact museum for details. For further details please call the Museum 325-4576 or stop by the Museum at 420 6^th Avenue in Ouray.

Dog Care for the day and for your yard! Little Paws and Dog Watch can help! Little Paws will take care of your pup when you are working or gone on a trip! Daily, overnight or weekly care @ $15/day per dog. For families with multiple dogs, a discounted price of $12.50/day per dog is given for visits longer than 3 days. Daily walks, playtimes, and any basic grooming needed are included in the fee. Pick-up and drop-off services are available for a small fee.

A pet containment system from Dogwatch is a radio pet fence that uses an electronic radio signal. Our underground dog fence keeps your pet IN a designated containment area, such your backyard or OUT of an area like your garden! All pet fencing systems are a form of electronic dog fence and should not be mistakenly referred to as an electric fence that contains livestock with an electrified wire. Indoor options also available!

Chamber Chat -- June 3rd

Karen Avery — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:31:00 -0700

OCRA Chamber Chat: June 03, 2009 (can you believe it is June already!!)

Please share with us your 4^th of July activities,special hours, etc.

Thank you! Jennifer

****Montrose Harley Rally will be held June 18-20! 500 + are registered, and they are going to visit Ouray!! Be ready!

IN THIS ISSUE:

· Feature: Ouray visitor comment (what’s your feature? Share with us!)

· Message from BJ…she’s now on Main!

· Mountain Bike Rentals

· Trail Update

· Ouray Farmers Market, starts this week!

· Taste of Ouray: A Festival of Flavor!

· Art Opening June 12th

· Culinary Retreat Experience

· 14^th Annual Love Your Valley Festival

· Corkscrew Railroad Bed and Turntable

· Ouray County’s own prelude to the Bluegrass Festival

· Food Handler Safety class

· Evening of History "Ouray County Ranching Stories"

· Business After Hours: Ouray Mule and Carriage

· ANNUAL WOMENS CLUB RUMMAGE SALE!!

· Evening of History "The Mesker Iron Fronts on Ouray's Main

· Trio Solesti

· Evening of History "Lake Lenore"

· Dinner until 10:00 pm… who is open? The Outlaw will be starting June 15!

· Free Days.. a message from the City.

· Ouray Mule and Carriage: starting this weekend will provide Stage Coach Rides on MAIN St!!!
Call to arrange a guest pick up from your hotel to dinner!

· Summer Days of Play… July events! Mark your calendar! For a complete list visit
OurayColorado.com

· Links

· Are you Gluten Free?

· 2009 OCRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

· Miss a feature? What is a radio pet fence?

Feature and other notices: Note from a guest: I have to say that is the cutest little town! We are from NM and visited two weeks ago, we have recommended it and some of our friends. As a matter of fact they just got back and my brother and sister in law are headed that way soon!

Thank you for the pleasant experience.

Brenda Morales

Ouray Massage Therapy has a new location at 8th & Main. (in the Cutting Edge building)

A pleasant healing decor with a Balinese theme. Offering Therapeutic Massage, Spa Treatments
and retail Chinese Therapeutic Oils, Homemade Organic Lotion & Aromatherapy Sprays. I will also
 be teaching some workshops as well. More info on my website: www.bodybybeej.com.

Locals get $10 off all sessions all year. Contact: 318-1113

   Best Regards, B.J.

New Service offered by River Side Inn and Cabins in collaboration with Peak to Peak Bikes! Bike rentals, Bike shuttle service and more! Contact River Side Inn or Peak to Peak for more info!

Trail Update: San Miguel R&B advises they are above the Tom Boy Townsite clearing snow. No estimate yet to clear the pass, but should be earlier than usual.

WARREN BARKER

Thursday, June 4, (and every Thursday until mid-Sept.) Ouray Farmers Market, 2-6 pm. For more information or to volunteer, etc., please contact: Trevor or Erin- ourayfarmersmarket@ gmail.com. Sorry, no crafts.

June 10: Taste of Ouray: A Festival of Flavor! Culinaire and Wine Festival Ouray Community Center 4:30-9. Beverages provided by Colorado Boy Brewery, Ourayle House and Montaya Distilleries from Silverton, CO. Several Western Slope Wineries will be on hand as well! NA and gluten free beer too! ALSO there will be a book signing: An Artistic Flavor a gluten free recipe book by Romagene Person.

Massard Room aka: The Play Room:

4:30-7: Food service 5-9

5 – 7 Kids Creation Station: hosted by Weehawken Creative Arts

6:30 – 7:30: Mystery Box Culinary Cook-

San Juan Room:

5-9: Dessert Service and Musical and Theatrical Performances

Chameleon Ensemble 5-6:30

David Baker and Friends 7:30-9

Our Proud Sponsors Include: Backstreet Bagel, Khristopher’s Culinaire, Ouray Performance Art Guild, The Western Hotel and Saloon, Ouray Chamber, Switzerland of America, and Red Hat Distribution.

On June 9, 10 and 11: Weehawken Creative Arts will present a "Culinary Retreat Experience" with Sara Sharpe and the Box Canyon Lodge in Ouray. During this three-day adventure, students will learn incredible recipes in the kitchen and enjoy a relaxing break in Ouray!

June 12: Ago Gallery - Fabric Art Gallery Show Calendar

Greetings OCRA Members!

Romagean's School of Visual Art Presents:

Now on sale at the Ago Gallery 445 Main Street, Ouray

Romagean Personne is an artist by trade and has write and had published a

cookbook An Artistic Taste this book has 200 gluten free recipes with some of her art work. You will remember the painting on the cover as it appeared on the cover of the 2007 Ouray County Visitors Guide

Art Opening June 12th through July 5th

Featuring a Special Collection of Ceramic Art

By Bill Wilson at the Ago Gallery of Fine Art. Reception June 12th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm

June 13^th 12pm – 6pm 14^th Annual Love Your Valley Festival

June 13 – Corkscrew Railroad Bed and Turntable Hike – Sponsored by the Ridgway Railroad Museum and OCHS (guided $10 fee) Call: 970-325-4576 to reregister.

June 15: The Colorado State Cooperative Extension Service is offering a Food Handler Safety class at the Ouray Community Center on June 15^th from 2 to 5 PM. Cost for the class is $5.00 per person. The three hour course for food service workers covers the basic requirements for safe food handling. Contact Rhonda at the CSU Extension office for more information, 970-244-1839.The class is sponsored by:

Colorado State University Tri-River Extension
The Colorado Trust
Ouray County Public Health

June 16 – Jane Bennett, Evening of History "Ouray County Ranching Stories"

June 17, Business After Hours: Ouray Mule and Carriage. 5:30-7:30. This event is open to all chamber and citizen members.

June 17: Kort McCumber and his band, McCumberland Gap Ouray County’s own prelude to the Bluegrass Festival. On June 17, at 7:30 pm, Kort McCumber and his band, McCumberland Gap will return to the Wright Opera House for another musical love fest with the audience. The concert is sponsored by Citizen’s State Bank to assist the Friends of the Wright Opera House in their effort to purchase the building and create a center for the arts for Ouray County to complement the existing retail activity present there. Tickets are $15 and are available in Ouray at Buckskin Booksellers, Khristopher’s Culinaire, and Mouse’s Chocolate; in Ridgway, at Cimarron Books & Coffee and in Montrose at Ouray Silversmith. You may also purchase tickets by contacting Dee Williams at 970-318-1278 (cell) or via email at swap17@mindspring.com.

June 23 - Tom Hillhouse, Evening of History "The Mesker Iron Fronts on Ouray's Main Street"

June 26 – Trio Solesti – world renowned chamber music trio from New York, 7:30pm, 4-H Event Center, Ridgway, CO Info: www.ocpag.org

June 30 - Karen Griffiths, Evening of History "Lake Lenore", Ouray Historical Society

Free Days: each of you must complete a Temporary Encroachment Permit application form if you place merchandise on the sidewalk for sale. If you have NOT completed the form because you don’t have benches, flower pots, etc., then go to City Hall to get the form and the front desk can assist with that step.

Summer Days: on going and dated:

WEDNESDAYS until Aug 26 OURAY ELKS BINGO, 7 PM at the Ouray Elks lodge. Open to the public.

Outlaw: Kitchen is open until 10:00 pm for the summer!!!!!!!!

July 1: Deadline date to register for the below class is July 1, 2009

Robert Parham

Photography

Experience the beauty of Colorado's San Juan Mountains at the height of

wildflower season. Awardwinning photographer Rober Parham leads this

two-day workshop that will explore the essential elements of

scenic/landscape photography in the heart of Colorado's grandest high

mountain scenery. The enthusiasts at all levels of experience. For almost

thirty years Parham has explored and photographed these mountains, which

contain thirteen of Colorado's most beautiful and rugged 14,000' peaks and

countless peaks above 12,000'.

Approximately two hours of classroom time each day following lunch will

focus on photo critique, technique and equipment issues. "Base camp" for

the workshop is the picturesque mountain town of Ouray, also known as the

"Switzerland of America" and "Jeep Capitol of the World".

Minimum students 3 maximum 6

Price 285.00

July 4 - Old Fashioned 4^th of July Celebration - Parades, kids games, fire hose water fights, Elks Club BBQ, and spectacular fireworks display! Fun for the whole family!

July 7 - Don Paulson, Evening of History - "Late 19th and Early 20th Century Ouray Photographers"

July 10-12 – Hardrock Hundred Endurance Run in the scenic, rough mountains of SW CO.

Summer in the San Juans 2009 Work Shop

July 11 and 12 Robert Parham
Whose work has appeared on calendars world wide

Photography

Experience the beauty of Colorado's San Juan Mountains at the height of

wildflower season. Awardwinning photographer Rober Parham leads this

two-day workshop that will explore the essential elements of

scenic/landscape photography in the heart of Colorado's grandest high

mountain scenery. The enthusiasts at all levels of experience. For almost

thirty years Parham has explored and photographed these mountains, which

contain thirteen of Colorado's most beautiful and rugged 14,000' peaks and

countless peaks above 12,000'.

Approximately two hours of classroom time each day following lunch will

focus on photo critique, technique and equipment issues. "Base camp" for

the workshop is the picturesque mountain town of Ouray, also known as the

"Switzerland of America" and "Jeep Capitol of the World".

Price 285.00. Deadline date is July 1, 2009. Minimum students 3 maximum 6


July 11 and 12: Plein Air Painting in the Beautiful San Juan Mountains

Cost is 285.00. Romagean Personne: Learn to paint in the outdoors with One of Colorado's favorite artists. In May 2000 Romagean was added to the Archives of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, D.C. Her work is registered with the National Fine Art Title Registry.

We will travel to some wonderful but not forgettable places to paint in the San Juan Mountains. Students will receive a $25.00 gift certificate from Judsons Art Outfitters upon attending this class. If the weather is bad the class will take place in doors at Montgrose Center for the Arts, 219 A East Main Street, Montrose, CO phone 970-252-0241 or visit www.montroseartcentert.com Minimum students 4 maximum 12

 July 13: A Painter's Photography Class by Romagean Personne, Cost 75.00

This is not a class in the mechanics of using a camera; it is a class in

using your camera to capture subject matter for painting. Students must

have their own cameras and knowledge of the operation of them prior to the

class.

Students will experience the following: What to look for when shooting a

photo to work from. Distinguishing which details will help in producing a

painting. How to use the camera as a tool. What to leave out when working

from the photograph.

July 14 – Carolyn Kelly, Evening of History - "Historic Ouray Homes"

July 15-18: FJ Cruiser Summit

July 21 - Tom Rosemeyer, Evening of History - "The Camp Bird Mine"

July 24-26: The Ouray Chalet Inn & Synergistic Visions Present...

San Juan Majesty Digital Photography Workshops

with Steve Traudt and Assistant Dick Colby

Inspiration & Instruction in Ouray, Colorado!

July 25, 26, 29 & 30- Diamond W Wranglers –Cowboy western singing group, 7pm, Wright Opera House. Western Music Album of the Year! Info, call John – 970-325-7255

July 31 - Artists Alpine Holiday – 49^th Annual National Juried art show. Enjoy the creative and unique art work of artists in various mediums–oils, watercolors, photography www.ourayarts.org

Announcing the First Annual Colorado Peace Ride

Requested links for the chamber chat:

· Jeep road condition updates: http://soajeep.com/custom1. shtml

· Newspapers: Ouray Plaindealer and Ridgway Sun - www.ouraynews.com;

· Ouray County Watch- www.watchnewspapers.com

· City of Ouray: (view City Council Agendas prior to the meetings) www.cityofouray.com

· Ouray Chamber Resort Association (OCRA) – www.ouraycolorado.com

· Ouray County Performing Arts Guild (OCPAG) – www.ocpag.org

· Ouray County Arts Association (OOAA) – www.ourayarts.org

· Ouray County Historical Society: www. ouraycountyhistoricalsociety. org

· Ouray Ice Park: http://www.ourayicepark.com

· Ouray Trail Group - www.ouraytrails.org

· San Juan Mountain Guides: New Classes www.ourayclimbing.com/

· Weehawken Creative Arts (WCA) – www.weehawkenarts.org

· Yankee Boy Conservation Association: http://www.yankeeboy.org

· Ouray Beautification Committee: Committee meetings - monthly, the second Wednesday, beginning at 3:30 PM in the Community Center’s San Juan Room.

Are you Gluten Free or is your diet as such?

-Tundra, Bulow’s- let your server know

-Bill Goats Gruff- let your server know

-Papillons on Main – Call ahead and let them know

-Spangler House B&B- Call ahead and let them know (vegan and gluten free)

-Ago Gallery has a new cook book that will be out this May 28th that has 200 gluten

free recipes in it as well as art work by Romagean. This book will be for sale

through Ago Gallery and San Juan Pottery.

2009 OCRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Karen Avery (2009/10) President

Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs 325-4981

Chris Bonatti (2007-2009) Vice President

The Outlaw Restaurant

HM: 325-4366

Nancy Wolkin (2009-2011)Treasurer

Denim of Antiquity

Store: 325-4924

Cell: 596-1079

Clint Boots (2008-2010) Secretary

Citizens State Bank

325-4478

Rob Megna (2008-2009)

Backstreet Bagel

Cell: 530-575-1333

Festival

Bill Leo (2007-2009)

Ouray Mountain Sports

325-4284

Jill Schoenebaum (2008-2010)

4 J+1+1 RV Park

w)325-4418 H) 325-4864

Rick Smith (2009-2011)

O’Brien’s Pub

325-4386

Michelle Poirer (2009-2011)

Blue Pear

325-9838

Cell: 252-256-4312

Miss a feature?

First Summer Concert on Father’s Day

Lora — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 01:46:00 -0700

On Sunday afternoon, June 21, the Jeff Solon Jazz Trio will perform a concert at Ouray's Fellin Park starting at 4:00 p.m. This concert will be the first free Summer 2009 concert sponsored for the community by the Ouray County Performing Arts Guild.

Jeff Solon and his Durango-based group perform classic jazz composition, blues, boogie woogie, and also original compositions. Their instruments include guitar and keyboard as well as Jeff Solon on tenor saxophone, harmonica and flute. The Jeff Solon Trio has produced several CDs, which are available for purchase on their web site, www.jeffsolon.com.

So bring your lawn chairs or blankets and picnic (no alcohol permitted) to the park in Ouray for what is sure to be a lively and entertaining concert by this regional band. If needed, the rain venue will be the Ouray School.

“Ouray County Ranching Stories” Kicks Off OCHS Evenings of History Lecture Series

Lora — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 02:09:00 -0700

Dutch Charlie, Button Porter, California Frank… get to know these and other colorful characters from Ouray County's ranching history at 7:30 p.m. on June 16, when the Ouray County Historical Society kicks off its Evenings of History lecture series at the Ouray Community Center with Jane Bennett, the Ouray County Ranch History Museum's resident storyteller.

For 25 years Jane Bennett has been telling stories about the American Southwest as a member of both the tourism and publishing industries. In 1995 and 1996, she was principal performer in "The Diggers," a musical variety show about mining history in Ouray. She wrote her first book, Tales of the Bachelor Mine, in 2005 and is a member of the Western Writers of America. In the last five years she has helped to launch the new Ranching Museum at the historic Old Schoolhouse in Colona, and is currently the acting President of the Museum's Board.

The 2009 lecture series will cover topics ranging from "The Camp Bird Mine" to "The History of Ouray Through Postcards" and will be held every Tuesday night from June 16 through July 21. All lectures begin at 7:30 p.m. and will be held at the Ouray Community Center. Admission to the lectures is free, but donations are very much appreciated by OCHS. For more information and a complete schedule of OCHS summer lectures and events, contact the Ouray County Museum at 325-4576 or visit their website at www.ouraycountyhistoricalsociety.org.

Chamber Chat -- June 10, 2009

Karen Avery — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 15:51:00 -0700

OCRA Chamber Chat:

Please share with us your 4^th of July activities,

special hours, etc. Thank you! Jennifer

June10, 2009

Taste of Ouray: A Festival of Flavor! TONIGHT! With Special performances by the Chameleon Ensemble and David Baker and Friends! Kids parade and more!

IN THIS ISSUE:

Montrose Harley Rally will be held June 18-20! 500 + are registered,

and they are going to visit Ouray!!

· Feature: Free days at National Parks.. see below for details!

· Jeep sales are great… River Side Inn and Cabins had the top sales for May!

· Mountain Bike Rentals

· Trail Update

· Taste of Ouray: A Festival of Flavor! TONIGHT!

· Art Opening June 12th

· Culinary Retreat Experience

· 14^th Annual Love Your Valley Festival

· Corkscrew Railroad Bed and Turntable

· Ouray County’s own prelude to the Bluegrass Festival

· Food Handler Safety class

· Evening of History "Ouray County Ranching Stories"

· Business After Hours: Ouray Mule and Carriage

· ANNUAL WOMENS CLUB RUMMAGE SALE!!

· Free Concert in the Park!

· Evening of History "The Mesker Iron Fronts on Ouray's Main

· Trio Solesti

· Evening of History "Lake Lenore"

· Dinner until 10:00 pm… who is open? The Outlaw will be starting June 15!

· Ouray Mule and Carriage: starting this weekend will provide Stage Coach Rides on MAIN St!!! Call to arrange a guest pick up from your hotel to dinner!

· Summer Days of Play… July events! Mark your calendar! For a complete list visit OurayColorado.com

· Links

· Are you Gluten Free?

· 2009 OCRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

· Miss a feature? Where is BJ now a days?

Feature and other notices: The National Park Service will allow visitors free entry during three weekends this summer to encourage Americans to visit national parks such as the Grand Canyon, Yosemite and Rocky Mountain National Park.

The fee waivers — one each month in June, July and August — will apply to all 391 national parks across the country, from Alaska to Florida. All 147 Park Service sites that charge fees for entry will waive entrance fees from June 20-21, July 18-19 and August 15-16.. Entry fees being waived range from $3 to $25. That does not apply to fees charged for camping, reservations, tours or concessions.

New Service offered by River Side Inn and Cabins in collaboration with Peak to Peak Bikes! Bike rentals, Bike shuttle service and more! Contact River Side Inn or Peak to Peak for more info!

Trail Update: San Miguel R&B advises they are above the Tom Boy Townsite clearing snow. No estimate yet to clear the pass, but should be earlier than usual.

WARREN BARKER

Massard Room aka: The Play Room:

4:30-7: Food service 5-9

5 – 7 Kids Creation Station: hosted by Weehawken Creative Arts

6:30 – 7:30: Mystery Box Culinary Cook-

San Juan Room:

5-9: Dessert Service and Musical and Theatrical Performances

Chameleon Ensemble 5-6:30

David Baker and Friends 7:30-9

Our Proud Sponsors Include: Backstreet Bagel, Khristopher’s Culinaire, Ouray Performance Art Guild, The Western Hotel and Saloon, Ouray Chamber, Switzerland of America, and Red Hat Distribution.

June 12: Ago Gallery - Fabric Art Gallery Show Calendar

Greetings OCRA Members!

Romagean's School of Visual Art Presents:

Now on sale at the Ago Gallery 445 Main Street, Ouray

Romagean Personne is an artist by trade and has write and had published a cookbook An Artistic Taste this book has 200 gluten free recipes with some of her art work. You will remember the painting on the cover as it appeared on the cover of the 2007 Ouray County Visitors Guide Art Opening June 12th through July 5th Featuring a Special Collection of Ceramic Art By Bill Wilson at the Ago Gallery of Fine Art. Reception June 12th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm

June 13^th 12pm – 6pm 14^th Annual Love Your Valley Festival

June 13 – Corkscrew Railroad Bed and Turntable Hike – Sponsored by the Ridgway Railroad Museum and OCHS (guided $10 fee) Call: 970-325-4576 to reregister.

Colorado State University Tri-River Extension
The Colorado Trust
Ouray County Public Health

June 16 – Jane Bennett, Evening of History "Ouray County Ranching Stories"

June 17, Business After Hours: Ouray Mule and Carriage. 5:30-7:30. This event is open to all chamber and citizen members.

June 21: Free Concert in the Park! On Sunday afternoon, June 21, the Jeff Solon Jazz Trio will perform a concert at Ouray’s Fellin Park starting at 4:00 p.m. This concert will be the first free Summer 2009 concert sponsored for the community by the Ouray County Performing Arts Guild.

June 23 - Tom Hillhouse, Evening of History "The Mesker Iron Fronts on Ouray's Main Street"

June 26 – Trio Solesti – world renowned chamber music trio from New York, 7:30pm, 4-H Event Center, Ridgway, CO Info: www.ocpag.org

June 30 - Karen Griffiths, Evening of History "Lake Lenore", Ouray Historical Society

Summer Days: on going and dated:

WEDNESDAYS until Aug 26 OURAY ELKS BINGO, 7 PM at the Ouray Elks lodge. Open to the public.

July 1: Deadline date to register for the below class is July 1, 2009

Robert Parham Photography Workshop

Award winning photographer Rober Parham leads this two-day workshop that will explore the essential elements of scenic/landscape photography in the heart of Colorado's grandest high mountain scenery. Price 285.00. Deadline date is July 1, 2009. Minimum students 3 maximum 6. Contact Ago Gallery for more information.

July 4 - Old Fashioned 4^th of July Celebration - Parades, kids games, fire hose water fights, Elks Club BBQ, and spectacular fireworks display! Fun for the whole family!

*Painting Marmot: Make your own T-shirt $12.00 and face painting all day.

*San Juan Mnt. Guides: offering zip-line rides again on the 4th of July. We will be offering the rides from 11:30 am til 1:30 pm. After the parade and before the water fights. The cost is $10per ride.

July 7 - Don Paulson, Evening of History - "Late 19th and Early 20th Century Ouray Photographers"

July 10-12 – Hardrock Hundred Endurance Run in the scenic, rough mountains of SW CO.

Summer in the San Juans 2009 Work Shop

July 11 and 12: Robert Parham Photography Workshop

Contact Ago Gallery for more information.

July 11 and 12: Plein Air Painting in the Beautiful San Juan Mountains

Cost is 285.00. Romagean Personne: We will travel to some wonderful but not
forgettable places to paint in the San Juan Mountains.  If the weather is bad the class
 will take place in doors at Montrose Center for the Arts, 219 A East Main Street,
Montrose, CO phone 970-252-0241 or visit www.montroseartcentert.com Minimum
students 4 maximum 12

  July 13: A Painter's Photography Class by Romagean Personne, Cost 75.00

Students will experience the following: What to look for when shooting a photo to work from. Distinguishing which details will help in producing a painting. How to use the camera as a tool. What to leave out when working from the photograph.

July 14 – Carolyn Kelly, Evening of History - "Historic Ouray Homes"

July 15-18: FJ Cruiser Summit

July 18^th - “Paws for Art” : Formerly the Fur Ball, this new Fun-raiser has been upscaled to a casually elegant early evening event featuring a Live Art Auction, complimentary wine, beer, appetizers and live music. Pet lover or not - you won’t want to miss this Art Auction – with artist contributions of all genres this will be a uniquely fun evening at the Telluride Conference Center in Mountain Village.

July 18^th 1-5: Paint whimsical Horses with Alice Billings at the Painting Marmot Cost: $60.00 (please sign up at the store and) Deposit $15.00. Sketch your horse live at the Ouray Livery and Paint it with acrylic paint. Instructor is longtime Ridgway artist Alice Billings. Alice is known for her paintings of horses and is an avid horse woman. She works with therapy horses and rescued horses 612 Main St.. 970-325-7232

July 21 - Tom Rosemeyer, Evening of History - "The Camp Bird Mine"

July 24-26: The Ouray Chalet Inn & Synergistic Visions Present...

San Juan Majesty Digital Photography Workshops

with Steve Traudt and Assistant Dick Colby

Inspiration & Instruction in Ouray, Colorado!

July 25, 26, 29 & 30- Diamond W Wranglers –Cowboy western singing group, 7pm, Wright Opera House. Western Music Album of the Year! Info, call John – 970-325-7255

July 31 - Artists Alpine Holiday – 49^th Annual National Juried art show. Enjoy the creative and unique art work of artists in various mediums–oils, watercolors, photography www.ourayarts.org

Announcing the First Annual Colorado Peace Ride

August 9 - 12, 2009 Colorado Peace Ride: Join this amazing tour along one of the 10 most scenic routes in the country! The Colorado Peace Ride is a 4-day, 238-mile tour along the entire San Juan Skyway loop: Peace Ride Route . The Peace Ride is a fully supported tour with an affordable entry fee of just $200, and Olympic rider and coach, Colby Pearce, has designed the training schedule. Ride limited to 500 cyclists so register online now! For more information: Colorado Peace Ride

September 25-27: Autumn Color Workshop & Photoshop Elements. $359. Join Steve for a magical photo experience in Ouray at the height of autumn color. See www.synvis.com for details.

Requested links for the chamber chat:

· Jeep road condition updates: http://soajeep.com/custom1. shtml

· Newspapers: Ouray Plaindealer and Ridgway Sun - www.ouraynews.com;

· Ouray County Watch- www.watchnewspapers.com

· City of Ouray: (view City Council Agendas prior to the meetings) www.cityofouray.com

· Ouray Chamber Resort Association (OCRA) – www.ouraycolorado.com

· Ouray County Performing Arts Guild (OCPAG) – www.ocpag.org

· Ouray County Arts Association (OOAA) – www.ourayarts.org

· Ouray County Historical Society: www. ouraycountyhistoricalsociety. org

· Ouray Ice Park: http://www.ourayicepark.com

· Ouray Trail Group - www.ouraytrails.org

· San Juan Mountain Guides: New Classes www.ourayclimbing.com/

· Weehawken Creative Arts (WCA) – www.weehawkenarts.org

· Yankee Boy Conservation Association: http://www.yankeeboy.org

· Ouray Beautification Committee: Committee meetings - monthly, the second Wednesday, beginning at 3:30 PM in the Community Center’s San Juan Room.

Are you Gluten Free or is your diet as such?

-Tundra, Bulow’s- let your server know

-Bill Goats Gruff- let your server know

-Papillons on Main – Call ahead and let them know

-Spangler House B&B- Call ahead and let them know (vegan and gluten free)

-Ago Gallery has a new cook book that will be out this May 28th that has 200 gluten

free recipes in it as well as art work by Romagean. This book will be for sale

through Ago Gallery and San Juan Pottery.

2009 OCRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Karen Avery (2009/11) President

Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs 325-4981

Chris Bonatti (2007-2009) Vice President

The Outlaw Restaurant

HM: 325-4366

Nancy Wolkin (2009-2010)Treasurer

Denim of Antiquity

Store: 325-4924

Cell: 596-1079

Clint Boots (2008-2010) Secretary

Citizens State Bank

325-4478

Rob Megna (2008-2009)

Backstreet Bagel

Cell: 530-575-1333

Festival

Bill Leo (2007-2009)

Ouray Mountain Sports

325-4284

Jill Schoenebaum (2008-2010)

4 J+1+1 RV Park

w)325-4418 H) 325-4864

Rick Smith (2009-2011)

O’Brien’s Pub

325-4386

Michelle Poirer (2009-2011)

Blue Pear

325-9838

Cell: 252-256-4312

Miss a feature?

Ouray Massage Therapy has a new location at 8th & Main. (in the Cutting Edge building)

A pleasant healing decor with a Balinese theme. Offering Therapeutic Massage,
Spa Treatments and retail Chinese Therapeutic Oils, Homemade Organic Lotion &
Aromatherapy Sprays. I will also be teaching some workshops as well.
More info on my website: www.bodybybeej.com.

Locals get $10 off all sessions all year. Contact: 318-1113

   Best Regards, B.J.

Let the Games and Lunch Begin!

Lora — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:18:00 -0700

Billy Goat's is now open for lunch at 11am daily, and our game room and indoor seating are also open! We have pool, shuffleboard and foosball. Join us on "Thirsty Thursdays" for great draft specials, and try our slow-smoked Pork Ribs every Monday night through the summer season!! Come down for a Liter and enjoy the views!

Peak 11,300 SW Ridge

San Juan Mountain Guides — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 22:15:00 -0700

I had a great 2nd trip in the Alaska Range in Mid-May. Bob and I flew directly into the West Fork of the Ruth Glacier on May 19th. We set up a nice camp and got prepped to head up on the route the next morning. The SW Ridge of PK 11,300 is one of the finest routes in the range. 4,000 feet of steep snow, sweet iced up corners and couloirs, and loads of clean 5.8 rock steps. From below the route is quite deceptive. It appears straightforward and not too far, but as it unfolds there are seemingly endless cols and corners to navigate before emerging on the summit ice field.We spent the first night at the Grey Rock Bivy, climbed over the summit to the start of the rappels on the 2nd, and back to camp on the 3rd day.Great trip, great company!

Cheers, CC

Alpine Climbing Conditions in the San Juans

San Juan Mountain Guides — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 22:55:00 -0700

Spent a few days up in Yankee Boy Basin this past week. Snow conditions are good. You can drive past the toilet to the upper gate and park. There is still plenty of snow for good alpine climbing right now. The south facing routes are holding less snow, but there is enough for great conditions on Teakettle and Sneffels. The north routes like Gilpin are still chock full and even seeing some ski descents.

Tis' the season! Come and get it!

Cheers, CC

Uncompaghre Gorge Canyon Zip-Line

Lora — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 05:33:00 -0700

San Juan Mountain Guides announces TWO dates for Zip Line runs across the Uncompaghre Gorge. Fun for the whole family. $10 per ride.

June 27^th 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

July 4^th 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM

Come get a new perspective on the gorge!

Come up to the Ice Park Upper Bridge on county RD 361 (Camp Bird Road)

Summit for Someone Course

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 11:23:00 -0700

Last weekend I instructed a 4-day Alpine Mountaineering Course for the Summit for Someone program. It is a pretty cool organization that raises money for at-risk youths to get to go climbing. The folks on our course each raised over $2000 each to go towards the Big City mountaineers foundation.We started with a thorough overview of equipment and packing techniques before heading up into the mountains. We made a nice camp at snow line with running water and great views. The next couple days we learned a ton of new techniques for snow and ice, and then climbed the very alpine South Slopes route on Mt Sneffels. It was a bit brutal in the morning with snow and high winds, but everyone put their best foot forward, and a few hours later Nick was on top of his first 14er! We elected to escape the harsh weather and spent the last day rock climbing and working on rope skills at a nice crag overlooking Ouray.

Super fun course! Looking forward to next year.
CC

Dallas Peak South Face Couloir

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 11:48:00 -0700

Bob O. and I got the chance to go into Mill Creek and climb the South Face Couloir on Dallas Peak on the 19th. Dallas has the reputation as the hardest 13er in the state, and it definitely has its challenges. The SFC is a sweet alpine route for those with good snow and ice skills. It features a moderate (2.5hrs) approach hike, and then 2500 feet of sweet neve, short steps of water ice, and good alpine rock. I'm not sure if anyone else ever climbs this route, but it is excellent. We were the first party on top for the year.This is one of the best alpine routes in the San Juans, period. If you have the skills. Bob is an alpine animal. Should be good for another 2 weeks.

Cheers, CC.

Maiden Voyage, Black Canyon

San Juan Mountain Guides — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:14:00 -0700

Went into the Black with Dave L. from Australia today (Tues. June 23). He had seen the canyon before, but this was his first foray into the depths. We chose Maiden Voyage for his 1st Black route; opting for its clean rock, morning shade, and sweet handcracks!Dave was right on my heels for the descent down the Cruise Gulley, there were nice ropes fixed on the rappels, and we were soon at the base. Dave hiked every pitch like he was walking down the sidewalk.Having fun in the shade!Checkerboard's Island in the Sky.

Back on the Rim 4 hours later. Super fun climbing!
Cheers, CC

JULY 4TH EVENTS

Lora — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:04:00 -0700

July 3^rd

8PM – Firefighters Dance – Community Center

9PM- Fall Baby at Backstreet Bagel corner of 6^th and Main, $5 cover.

9PM -Live Music at Papillon featuring Til Willis - 9pm-Midnight

July 4th

6AM – Pancake Breakfast, Community Center – Ouray Mountain Rescue (fundraiser)

8AM 10K Race walk/run race around benefits KURA Radio, $5 entry, $15 w/ T-shirt. Register at City Hall between 7 am and 7:45 am.

10AM – 4^th of July Parade on Main Street

Immediately following parade – Children's games at Fellin Park at the Hot Springs

OURAY ELKS BBQ, after the parade. Lodge open to the public.

Painting Marmot: Make your own T-shirt $12.00 and face painting all day. 325-7232

11:30 AM to 2:30 PM San Juan Mountain Guides announces Zip Line runs across the Uncompaghre Gorge. After the parade and before the water fights. The cost is $10per ride. 970-325-4925

2PM – Water Fights at corner of 6th & Main St.

4PM - Rock Creek Bluegrass band @Backstreet Bagel corner of 6th and Main

Dusk – Flare Parade coming down into town from the South

Dusk – Fireworks

9PM -Live Music at O'Brien's Pub featuring Til Willis - 9pm

Don't forget to pick up your Jeep Raffle Tickets!

Jeep Tickets support fireworks!

Mt Wilson - El Diente Traverse

San Juan Mountain Guides — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 22:28:00 -0700

I had the pleasure of spending the weekend with JD from Highlands Ranch. We have had a few adventures together over the years, including a fast ascent of the Tre Monts Route on Mont Blanc.

We started off with a day of rock climbing in the Alcove. Below is JD working up into the crux stemming moves on Groove Tube 5.9.

After that we packed up and hiked into Navajo Basin. We had some hail on the hike, but it was beautiful camping in the upper basin. We got up at 0330 and started climbing up the steep snow couloir on Mt. Wilson's North Face.
We climbed the 1500 feet of good neve, and headed over to the summit block on Mt. Wilson.
After topping Mt Wilson, the weather was holding ok, so we headed across the ridge to El Diente.
There are a couple ways to make the traverse. What I like to call the climber's traverse or the hiker's traverse. We opted for the high line and did the majority of the traverse on the crest itself.

As you approach El Diente, the ridge becomes more sharp and you are faced with this drop-off. An airy 20m rappel leads to the notch on El Diente and the summit shortly thereafter.
We descended the North Couloir on El Diente, and made the hike to camp and out to the trailhead. One of the sweetest ridges in the state. Good work JD!

Cheers, CC.

News from Ouray

Lora — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 01:15:00 -0700

"The Ouray Gallery will be closing its doors in October as I am retiring from the art/retail business to pursue other opportunities. There are many bargains to be had so come in and checkout the art and gifts as well as furniture and equipment. Please call Susan Lander at 970/275-9080 for further info."

Saturday August 15^th 3 pm. Ouray County Performing Arts Guild present the San Juan Chamber Musicfest featuring nationally acclaimed musicians Max Levinson (piano), Allison Eldredge (cello), Catherine Leonard (violin) and Patrick Shaughnessy (viola). Playing Elgar, Dvorak, Gershwin (Rhapsody in Blue) and Schumann. Concert at the Ouray School. Tickets $20 with students free. Buckskin Booksellers in Ouray, Cimarron Books and Coffee in Ridgway, Thomas Productions in Montrose, through website OCPAG.org and at the door.

Saturday, August 22, the award winning troupe "Legendary Ladies" brings an evening of "unconventional women of the west" show under the artistic direction of Kyle Neidt, also academic advisor for theater and dance at the University of Colorado at Boulder. The program is preceded by an optional reception at Venue Roscoe Fox and a dinner in the historic Beaumont Hotel. Info: Ouray County Historical Society, 970-325-4576

Saturday and Sunday, August 22 & 23, Author Kent Nelson will offer a Fiction Writing Workshop with Weehawken Creative Arts that will be all about the exploration of the facets of fiction writing for writers of all levels.

Sunday August 23^rd4.00 pm. Ouray County Performing Arts Guild present a Concert in the Park. Featuring the Dallas Divide Bluegrass Band. At Ridgway Hartwell Park. This is a free concert. Bring chair and/or blankets.

August 29: 2^nd Annual Grillin Chillin Thrillin Festival. 13 Western Slope Breweries,$20 to drink beer, all others free! Live music, zip and slack lines, kick ball teams (cheer them on!), kids puppet show, BBQ food and Grilled desserts! Picnic in Fellin Park with some of the best brews Colorado has to offer! Vegetarian food and NA beverages available. Public transportation provided by Ouray Mule and Carriage. This event is sponsored by the Ouray Chamber and the Festival Committee for CHANGE! 970-325-4746 for more info.

Fall Activities:

September 25-27: Autumn Color Workshop & Photoshop Elements.
$299. Join Steve for a magical photo experience in Ouray at the height of autumn color. See www.synvis.com
for details.

October 3, 2009, 2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run 10am – 2pm, Hot Springs Park, Ouray. 2 nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run - This run circumnavigates a 13.9 mile loop around the City of Ouray on USFS trails. The run is scheduled to coincide with the Ouray Oktoberfest for even more enjoyment! Pre-registration required. For information, visit www.ouraytrailrun.com

October 3, 2009: 45^th Annual Jeep Raffle Drawing and Oktoberfest celebration! Beer, Brats and Bavarian Music:

Return of the popular Bavarian band, The Austrian Connection!!!!!!!! Ouray Community Center 5-10 pm! Join us for spectacular San Juan Mnt Color then stop in for an evening celebration with live music, local brews and more! Sponsored by the Ouray Chamber Resort Association.

Restaurant Info:

Declaimer: This is information that restaurant members have asked OCRA to share with other members. This is a consolidated list or reports and has not been solicited.

The Bistro at Billy Goat Gruff's will be opening for lunches at 11am, Thursday-Sunday. Our lunch menu will feature our fabulous burgers, salads and appetizers, as well as our slow-smoked BBQ Ribs. If you are looking for a great gathering place outside, try the Biergarten, which opens at 11am daily, and offers our indoor seating area with pool table, shuffleboard and foosball.

Are you Gluten Free or is your diet as such?

-Spangler House B&B- Call ahead and let them know (vegan and gluten free)

-Ago Gallery has a new cook book that will be out this May 28th that has 200 gluten free recipes in it as well as art work by Romagean. This book will be for sale through Ago Gallery and San Juan Pottery.

WEDNESDAYS until Aug 26 OURAY ELKS BINGO, 7 PM at the Ouray Elks lodge. Open to the public.

New Service offered by River Side Inn and Cabins
in collaboration with Peak to Peak Bikes! Bike rentals, Bike shuttle service and more! Contact River Side Inn or Peak to Peak for more info!

Ouray Massage Therapy has a new location at 8th & Main. (in the Cutting Edge building) A pleasant healing decor with a Balinese theme. Offering Therapeutic Massage, Spa Treatments and retail Chinese Therapeutic Oils, Homemade Organic Lotion & Aromatherapy Sprays. I will also be teaching some workshops as well. More info on my website: www.bodybybeej.com. Contact: 970.318-1113

What’s Happening in Ouray

Lora — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 11:07:00 -0700

Friday, August 21st : Friends of the Wright Opera House are having a fund raiser at the Wright Opera House on Friday August 21st at 7.30 PM. Sweet Sunny South, the very very popular bluegrass band from Paonia will be returning to Ouray County to give another fabulous performance. Tickets are $15 at the door or can be purchased at various stores in Ouray and Ridgway. A great event for visitors and tourists alike.

Saturday, August 22, the award winning troupe "Legendary Ladies" brings an evening of "unconventional women of the west" show under the artistic direction of Kyle Neidt, also academic advisor for theater and dance at the University of Colorado at Boulder. The program is preceded by an optional reception at Venue Roscoe Fox and a dinner in the historic Beaumont Hotel.
Info: Ouray County Historical Society, 970-325-4576

Saturday and Sunday, August 22 & 23, Author Kent Nelson will offer a Fiction Writing Workshop with Weehawken Creative Arts that will be all about the exploration of the facets of fiction writing for writers of all levels.

Saturday, August 22 : The 3rd Annual Creek Palooza will be held on Saturday, August 22nd from 11 am to 9 pm at Canyon Creek Bed & Breakfast, located at 820 Main Street in Montrose! Ten local bands and solo artists will be performing all day on two stages. Proceeds will benefit our local Partners mentoring program! Free admission. For more info, call 249-2886 or 249-1116.

Sunday August 23rd 4.00 pm. Ouray County Performing Arts Guild present a Concert in the Park. Featuring the Dallas Divide Bluegrass Band. At Ridgway Hartwell Park. This is a free concert. Bring chair and/or blankets.

August 29: 2nd Annual Grillin Chillin Thrillin Festival. 13Western Slope Breweries,$20 to drink beer, all others free! Live music, zip and slack lines, kick ball teams (cheer them on!), kids puppet show, BBQ food and Grilled desserts! Picnic in Fellin Park with some of the best brews Colorado has to offer! Vegetarian food and NA beverages available. Public transportation provided by Ouray Mule and Carriage. This event is sponsored by the Ouray Chamber and the Festival Committee for CHANGE! 970-325-4746 for more info.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29: PIG ROAST (AND ITALIAN BEEF, TOO). Presented by Ouray Elks 492 at Grillin' and Chillin' in Fellin Park, 12 PM – 6 PM.

August 29: Mount Sneffels Education Half marathon on Sat Aug 29th. Ouray to Ridgway. Register online at Active.com or pick up a form at many locals in Ouray or Ridgway, We will accept registrations the night before at the Hot Springs pool or on the morning of the race. Any questions please contact Glynn Williams at the Variety Store 325-4469 or at home 325-4932. Cell phone 596-3001. ovs@mindspring.com It is a major fund raiser for us so any help you can give us will be much appreciated

Fall Activities:

Nestled in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. This beautiful town and ranch, Jossi Ranch, has been compared to Switzerland. Offering mountains, ghost towns, waterfalls, lakes and streams to paint. Lots of places to dine and several hotels, B & B and camping. At 8am we will begin painting on the Jossi Ranch and then we will be served lunch ($12.00 per person) from 12:00 – 1:00pm. Paint in the town of Ouray 1:30 – 4:30pm. At this time artists will be able to sell their own works and are responsible for their own sales. Dinner will be at Secret Garden Bed & Breakfast for $24.00 per person. All costs must be paid by September 1, 2009. Mail your check for $36.00 made out to Romagean Personne; PO Box 313, Ouray, Colorado 81427.

September 25-27: Autumn Color Workshop & Photoshop Elements. $299. Join Steve for a magical photo experience in Ouray at the height of autumn color. See www.synvis.com for details.

October 3, 2009, 2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run 10am – 2pm, Hot Springs Park, Ouray. 2 nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run - This run circumnavigates a 13.9 mile loop around the City of Ouray on USFS trails. The run is scheduled to coincide with the Ouray Oktoberfest for even more enjoyment! Pre-registration required. For information, visit www.ouraytrailrun.com

October 3, 2009: 45th Annual Jeep Raffle Drawing and Oktoberfest celebration! Beer, Brats and Bavarian Music: Return of the popular Bavarian band, The Austrian Connection!!!!!!!! Ouray Community Center 5-10 pm! Join us for spectacular San Juan Mnt Color then stop in for an evening celebration with live music, local brews and more! Sponsored by the Ouray Chamber Resort Association.

Ouray Mule and Carriage: starting this weekend will provide Stage Coach Rides on MAIN St!!! Call to arrange a guest pick up from your hotel to dinner!

A New Service offered by River Side Inn and Cabins in collaboration with Peak to Peak Bikes! Bike rentals, Bike shuttle service and more! Contact River Side Inn or Peak to Peak for more info!

Summer in the San Juans

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 00:57:00 -0700

Its been a great summer season in the San Juans this year. We've had lots of great adventures all over the range. I've slacked a little on blogging regularly so here are a few highlights.

Rainbow Overflow in the Uncompaghre Gorge

Beautiful Blue Lakes from the pass.

Grady makes the FA of Grilled Cheese Sandwich 5.7. One of the new sport routes put up by SJMG guides in the Pool Wall Alcove.

I'll keep working on this, I'm in Italy! CC

The Dolomites!

San Juan Mountain Guides — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 04:16:00 -0700

Just wrapped up 11 straight fantastic days in the Dolomites with Paul M. As always the company was fantastic, and the climbing was pretty good too! Here's the breakdown.

The view of the Tofana from Hotel Montana.

A friendly slobber to welcome us to Cortina! I'm a sucker for Saints.Day One. Paul cruising up Via Miriam on Torre Grande in the Cinque Torri. A classic 8 pitch UIAA V+, and a great way to get feel for the dolomite. Day Two: Torre Piccola di FalzaregoContemplating the Italian good life on top.Day 3: Torre Grande di Falzarego, just a little bigger and harder.Day 4: A well deserved rest day of sport climbing at Crepe du Oucera. Paul cranking away on the steep French grade 5c.Day 5: Spigolo Jori on Punta Fiames. Can you spot the line?
A little bit of air between Paul and the track as we approach the arete proper.On top with the hikers. Where did we come from?
Day 6: We went sport climbing at Sas di Stria. Too many pitches of French 5 to count.
Day 7: The Primo Spigolo, Tofana di Rozes. What can you say, its primo.10 pitches in with the famed Pilastro behind.Beautiful line. Worth another look.Day 8: The Grande linkup of the Torri di Falzarego. Clouds threatened, but Paul was getting pretty fast by now. Brits and Germans provided some good entertainment and motivation, but we were the first to the top!
Day 9: Via Ferrata di Innerkofler to the top of Paterno.

Day 10: Sport climbing in the rain under the huge overhangs at Landro. Paul cranked out 10+ pitches of stellar limetone that day, impressive. He was insistent we were first to be there, last to leave. the other guide thought we were a little weird, but dedicated.

Day 11: The beautiful Mazzorana route on Piz Popena Basso. Only 5 pitches, but sweet stemming for the last 60 meters. Then the crux of the trip, negotiating Piazza di Roma in the heart of Venice. Paul made it in, and i made it out alive. Mission accomplished.

The gorgeous Croda di Lago. Next year Paul?

OCRA Chamber Chat

Lora — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 02:05:00 -0700

Check out Ouray Colorado Chamber on facebook and post your photos of Ouray!

Sept 9, 2009

IN THIS ISSUE: Ouray Hot Springs Pool Hours. Winter hours begin on Tuesday Sept 8: Mon-Fri. 12-9, Sat. Sun 11-9. Pool will be closed for cleaning October 19 through October 25, 2009.

Feature and other notices:

Bachler' Mine will run tours until October 1!

Papillion's now closed on Wed. for the winter.

What are your winter hours and closures?

· Thistledown Campground to close for the season.

· Farmers Market on Thursday! 2-6!

· Fall hours for the Visitors Center

· Special "dance in the park"

· "Living in Bear Country"

· Ouray County Railroad Days.

· Open House for Indigo Paper Goods Barb Wade

· WATERCOLOR with Meredith Nemirov

· Painters of America 5th Annual Great Paint Out

· Fall Landscape Photography Workshop

· 2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run

· Polka Band booked for Oktoberfest!

· Winter Days of Play…
For a complete list visit OurayColorado.com

Get ready for winter activities with a little crossfit with Allen, yoga at Inner Mountain and dance with Weehawken! Ouray, Colorado, we have it all!

Miss a feature? The campground host is leaving soon after Labor Day and the season is coming to a close. Fees will not be required for use of Thistledown or Angel Creek Campgrounds from September 14 through late May 2010. The campgrounds will remain open, but no services will be provided and the toilet will be locked. Self-containment should be heavily promoted. Barring that, campers should walk several hundred feet into the forest (away from the creek, campground, roads, and trails) and bury human waste in catholes at least 6 inches deep. This is difficult to do in lower Canyon Creek and there is a lot of private property in the area, so, again, self-containment and removal is strongly preferred.

The six portable toilets further up the canyon will be removed for the season on September 15.

The toilet at Na-gach Day-Use Area, next to Amphitheater Campground, will remain open for an extended season through October. This is the nearest USFS toilet, located just above the City of Ouray.

Fall Activities:

VISITOR CENTER HOURS as of Sept 1-30.

Monday – Wednesday 9-6

Thursday – Saturday 9-5

Sunday 10-4

September 10:
Living with Wildlife, "Living in Bear Country," Two Videos, Thursday, September 10, 7 p.m., Ridgway Community Center, free monthly series sponsored by San Juan Corridors Coalition, information 626-4496.

The weekend of September 10 - 13 will provide plenty of opportunity for area residents, railfans and history buffs to experience the railroad heritage of the San Juans as the Ridgway Railroad Museum presents the ninth annual Ouray County Railroad Days. This educational event celebrates Ouray County's world famous railroad history with a variety of events for everyone from the most serious railfan to new residents with an interest in the unique history of the area.

Sunday, Sept 13: Barb Wade is expanding her graphic design business to include a line of stationery and greeting cards. To celebrate the launch of her new line, Indigo Paper Goods, she would like to invite chamber members to an Open House on Sunday, September 13th from 2-5pm. 102 Spruce Ct. (bottom of 5^th Ave.) 325.4123 for more info.

September 14-16, 2009: WOOD, WATER, ROCK: PAINTING TREES, RIVERS, SNOW, CLOUDS AND MOUNTAINS IN WATERCOLOR with Meredith Nemirov. 9 am to 4 pm each day. At the artist's studio and outdoors ~ Ridgway, CO

Saturday, September 19, 2009 Oil Painters of America (OPA) 5th Annual Great Paint Out, Ouray, Colorado 8am-8pm All PAAC Members and other artist are invited! Hostess: Romagean Personne 970-325-0270; romagean@agogallery.com Paint at a private ranch with lunch served; paint in town in afternoon with opportunity to sell. Dinner will be available. All costs must be paid by September 1st!

SEPT. 25, 26, 27 2009: Fall Landscape Photography Workshop with Kathleen Norris Cook
A PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP FOR BEGINNING TO ADVANCED STUDENTS IN OURAY, CO. For more information please see: www.weehawkenarts.org wcaouray@yahoo.com

October 3, 2009, 2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run

10am – 2pm, Hot Springs Park, Ouray. 2 nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run -

This run circumnavigates a 13.9 mile loop around the City of Ouray on USFS trails. The run is

scheduled to coincide with the Ouray Oktoberfest for even more enjoyment! Pre-registration required.

 For information, visit www.ouraytrailrun.com

October 3, 2009: 45^th Annual Jeep Raffle Drawing and Oktoberfest celebration! Beer, Brats and Bavarian Music: Return of the popular Bavarian band, The Austrian Connection!!!!!!!! Ouray Community Center 5-10 pm! Join us for spectacular San Juan Mnt Color then stop in for an evening celebration with live music, local brews and more!

Sponsored by the Ouray Chamber Resort Association.

Restaurant Info:

Declaimer: This is information that restaurant members have asked OCRA to share with other members. This is a consolidated list or reports and has not been solicited.

Are you Gluten Free or is your diet as such?

-Spangler House B&B- Call ahead and let them know (vegan and gluten free)

-Ducketts Market : has lots of available products which are wheat and gluten free. We are also open to bringing in new Wheat free or Gluten Free products on your faves list. Let us know we always welcome your feedback and we're all about happy tummies. 970-325-4397

-Ago Gallery has a new cook book that has 200 gluten free recipes in it as well as art work by Romagean. This book will be for sale through Ago Gallery and San Juan Pottery.

- Khristopher's Culinaire also has Gluten Free products as well as Gluten Free and Food Allergy Cookbooks. Khristopher's Culinaire, 733 Main St/PO Box 1831, Ouray, CO 81427, Phone/Fax 970-325-4089, kc@kcouray.com, www.kcouray.com, www.facebook.com.

Weehawken Dances Classes: Drop-In Dancers Welcome! Drop in rate: $15/class

New Service offered by River Side Inn and Cabins in collaboration with Peak to Peak Bikes! Bike rentals, Bike shuttle service and more! Contact River Side Inn or Peak to Peak for more info!

Ouray Massage Therapy has a new location at 8th & Main. (in the Cutting Edge building)

A pleasant healing decor with a Balinese theme. Offering Therapeutic Massage, Spa Treatments and retail Chinese Therapeutic Oils, Homemade Organic Lotion & Aromatherapy Sprays. I will also be teaching some workshops as well. More info on my website: www.bodybybeej.com.

Locals get $10 off all sessions all year. Contact: 318-1113

 Best Regards, B.J.

Chamber Chat 9-16-09

Lora — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 01:29:00 -0700

OCRA Chamber Chat:

Sept 16, 2009

IN THIS ISSUE:

Jeep Jamboree 9/18-19

Farmers Market on Thursday! 2-6!

Painters of America 5th Annual Great Paint Out

Autumn Color Workshop & Photoshop Elements

Second Chance Humane Society celebrating 15 years

Fall Landscape Photography Workshop

2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run

Polka Band booked for Oktoberfest!

Locals day on the train -- Sunday, November 1st.

Winter Days of Play…
For a complete list visit www. OurayColorado.com

Get ready for winter activities with a little crossfit with Allen, yoga at Inner Mountain and dance with Weehawken! Ouray, Colorado, we have it all!

Feature and other notices:

Change of Hours?- See below for updates!

*Billy Goat Gruff's will be closing for the season on Sunday the 20th!

We will be doing some great local specials during that last weekend... (we can't keep the beer through the winter). So come down and help us drain our kegs! Our last Thirsty Thursday in the Biergarten is this Thursday, and we will be doing some great $2 and $1 draft specials thru the weekend We will be closed for the winter season, but both the Bistro and the Biergarten will reopen next May! Thanks for a great summer!

*Coachlight Tavern is still open 7 days a week at 5:00p.m. thru September and
then starting in October we will go to our winter schedule of Friday, Saturday,
& Sunday. Coachlight Restaurant is now open tuesday thru Saturday and closed
on Sundays and Mondays. Our last day for the summer season will be Saturday Sept 26, 2009.

*O'Brien's CLOSED on TUESDAY.

*Outlaw open from 4:30 until 9:00 (Instead of 10:00) 7 days a week until the middle of October and then it will be 5:00-9:00 6 days a week (Closed Mondays). Also we are going to be closed Nov. 8-19. We will be open Saturday the 7th and then reopen on Friday the 20th.

*Papillion's now closed on Wed. for the winter.

*Bachler' Mine will run tours until October 1!

* Ouray Hot Springs Pool Hours.Winter hours begin on Tuesday Sept 8: Mon-Fri. 12-8:45, Sat. Sun 11-9. Pool will be closed for cleaning October 19 through October 25, 2009.

*Ouray Mule and Carriage will run tours ALL winter! Details coming!

*San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours will run until Nov. 1.

*V&S: Open 9-9 7days a week thru out Sept

Fall Activities:

Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009 Ranch History Museum open, 1-5 p.m. in the historic Colona School ¼ mi. west of Hwy. 550 on Ouray County Road 1. Storytelling at 3 p.m. This is the last regular date of the museum's 2009 season. Free; donation requested. Info: 970 626-5075.

September 27: Second Chance Humane Society is celebrating 15 years of success and invites the entire community to join with us! There will be two celebrations in two areas of our large service region. On Saturday September 26 we will be celebrating in Telluride at Elks Park and on Sunday September 27 we will be in Ridgway's Town Park.

Both events take place from 3-5 PM and involve "Chip Parties" offering ½ priced micro-chipping for all pets (only $25!) as well as an array of "chip" treats such as chocolate chip cookies and ice cream, chocolate chip cake, chips and dip, etc. Doggie DNA Test Kits will also be available along with live music and giveaways. Contact Kelly @ 626.2273 for more information or log onto: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.

October 3, 2009, 2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run

10am – 2pm, Hot Springs Park, Ouray. 2 nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run - This run circumnavigates a 13.9 mile loop around the City of Ouray on USFS trails. The run is scheduled to coincide with the Ouray Oktoberfest for even more enjoyment! Pre-registration required. For information, visit www.ouraytrailrun.com

October 3, 2009: 45th Annual Jeep Raffle Drawing and Oktoberfest celebration! Beer, Brats and Bavarian Music: Return of the popular Bavarian band, The Austrian Connection!!!!!!!! Ouray Community Center 5-10 pm! Join us for spectacular San Juan Mnt Color then stop in for an evening celebration with live music, local brews and more! Sponsored by the Ouray Chamber Resort Association.

Requested links for the chamber chat:

City of Ouray: (view City Council Agendas prior to the meetings) www.cityofouray.com

Jeep road condition updates: http://soajeep.com/custom1.shtml

Newspapers: Ouray Plaindealer and Ridgway Sun - www.ouraynews.com;

Ouray County Watch- www.watchnewspapers.com

Ouray Chamber Resort Association (OCRA) – www.ouraycolorado.com

Ouray County Performing Arts Guild (OCPAG) – www.ocpag.org

Ouray County Arts Association (OOAA) – www.ourayarts.org

Ouray County Historical Society: www.ouraycountyhistoricalsociety.org

Ouray Ice Park: http://www.ourayicepark.com

Ouray Trail Group - www.ouraytrails.org

Painting Marmot Art Supply and Art School www.paintingmarmotart.com

Rays Good Stuff, jerky, jellies and more. The perfect gift! http://raysgoodstuff.com

San Juan Mountain Guides: New Classes www.ourayclimbing.com/

Weehawken Creative Arts (WCA) – www.weehawkenarts.org

Yankee Boy Conservation Association: http://www.yankeeboy.org

Ouray Beautification Committee: Committee meetings - monthly, the second Wednesday, beginning at 3:30 PM in the Community Center's San Juan Room.

Restaurant Info:

Declaimer: This is information that restaurant members have asked OCRA to share with other members. This is a consolidated list or reports and has not been solicited.

Are you Gluten Free or is your diet as such?

-Spangler House B&B- Call ahead and let them know (vegan and gluten free)

-Ago Gallery has a new cook book that will be out this May 28th that has 200 gluten

free recipes in it as well as art work by Romagean. This book will be for sale

through Ago Gallery and San Juan Pottery.

-
Khristopher's Culinaire also has Gluten Free products as well as Gluten Free and Food Allergy Cookbooks. Khristopher's Culinaire, 733 Main St/PO Box 1831, Ouray, CO 81427, Phone/Fax 970-325-4089, kc@kcouray.com, www.kcouray.com, www.facebook.com.

Weehawken Dances Classes: Drop-In Dancers Welcome! Drop in rate: $15/class

Ouray Mule and Carriage: provides Stage Coach Rides on MAIN St!!! Call to arrange a guest pick up from your hotel to dinner!

New Service offered by River Side Inn and Cabins in collaboration with Peak to Peak Bikes! Bike rentals, Bike shuttle service and more! Contact River Side Inn or Peak to Peak for more info!

Ouray Massage Therapy has a new location at 8th & Main. (in the Cutting Edge building)

A pleasant healing decor with a Balinese theme. Offering Therapeutic Massage, Spa Treatments and retail Chinese Therapeutic Oils, Homemade Organic Lotion & Aromatherapy Sprays. I will also be teaching some workshops as well. More info on my website: www.bodybybeej.com.

Locals get $10 off all sessions all year. Contact: 318-1113

Best Regards, B.J.

A pet containment system from Dogwatch is a radio pet fence that uses an electronic radio signal. Our underground dog fence keeps your pet IN a designated containment area, such as your backyard or OUT of an area like your garden! All pet fencing systems are a form of electronic dog fence and should not be mistakenly referred to as an electric fence that contains livestock with an electrified wire. Indoor options also available!

[OCRA Members] Chamber Chat 9 23 2009

Lora — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 07:52:00 -0700

OCRA Chamber Chat:

Sept 23, 2009

IN THIS ISSUE:

Runners will be coming into town for the 2nd Annual Ouray Mountain Trail Run. If you would like to put any information about your business of coupons in our race bag please give to Jennifer by the 26th.

Farmers Market on Thursday! 2-6!

Papillon on Main will be opening at 6:00 AM this weekend only.

List of restaurant and deli hours for the winter

Fall Landscape Photography Workshop with Kathleen Norris Cook

Second Chance Humane Society celebrating 15 years

Fall Landscape Photography Workshop

2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run

Oktoberfest Oct 3 at the Ouray Community Center! Jeep Tickets will be picked up from vendors on Fri. Oct 2.

Locals day on the train -- Sunday, November 1st.

Winter Days of Play…
For a complete list visit OurayColorado.com

Get ready for winter activities with a little crossfit with Allen, yoga at Inner Mountain and dance with Weehawken! Ouray, Colorado, we have it all!

Links to members

2009 OCRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Feature and other notices: How is the chamber working for you? This week we arranged for Ouray Colorado- to have High Definition Footage shot (this week) because we KNOW we are the BEST Destination for Recreation! The footage will be aired on KCNC Channel 4 Denver in October and the footage will be available for mutli-media purposes.

Do you have a feature to share? Please send it in! :-)

Change of Hours? See below for updates!

**Bachler' Mine will run tours until October 1!

* Ouray Hot Springs Pool Hours: Winter hours begin on Tuesday Sept 8: Mon-Fri. 12-8:45, Sat. Sun 11-9. Pool will be closed for cleaning October 19 through October 25, 2009.

*Ouray Mule and Carriage will run tours ALL winter! We are now giving tours by reservation and no longer doing the hourly runs. We've had good success in the last couple weeks operating this way so unless the roads are not passable don't hesitate to direct people to call us at: 970-708-4946 to set up a tour.

*San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours will run until Nov. 1.

*V&S: Open 9-9 7days a week thru out Sept

*Spa Vivante has moved from the Beaumont Hotel and

is now called Vivante Spa Therapy.The new office is on 2nd Street. All

Riverstone, Massage, and Spa Body Treatments are still available by

Sherrah Taylor. In October, Sherrah will also be working at Ouray

Medical Center at 824 Main Street. All organic Starflower Facial and

Body Products and Shining Mountain Herbs will be sold there. To make

an appointment please call 970-209-8387.

Restaurant	Winter Hours	P.O. Box/
Artisan Bakery
Backstreet Bagel & Deli	Open Year Round b-fast and lunch Specials:	1466
Bon Ton 325-4951	Closed Tues and Wed starting late Oct. Specials: Thursday -Pasta Night	667
Buen Tiempo Mexican Restaurant 325-4544	Closed for lunch Specials:	667
Bulow's Bistro Restaurant 325-7000		740
Coachlight Restaurant & Tavern	Open 7 days a week at 5:00p.m. thru September and then starting in October we will go to our winter schedule of Friday, Saturday, & Sunday. Coachlight Restaurant is now open Tuesday thru Saturday and closed on Sundays and Mondays. Our last day for the summer season will be Saturday Sept 26, 2009	1051
Gold Belt	Closing for the winter	548
Historic Saloon Restaurant	Closed for the winter, open for catering and special events.	25
Maggie's
O'Brien's Pub 325-4386	Closed on TUESDAY Specials:	864
Ouray Café'
Ouray Swim & Snack House 325-4813	Open Specials:	679
Outlaw Restaurant	4:30 until 9:00 7 days a week until the middle of October and then it will be 5:00-9:00 6 days a week (Closed Mondays). Also we are going to be closed Nov. 8-19. We will be open Saturday the 7th and then reopen on Friday the 20th. Specials:	59
Papillion Main	Closed on Wed Specials: Monday Night Football Buffet, Music on the weekends	7
The Bistro at Billy Goats Gruff	CLOSED for the winter	486
Timberline Deli and Catering 325-4958	Open 7 days a week. Specials: Thai Dinner on Sat and Sun Fried Chicken 7days a week

October 3, 2009, 2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run

10am – 2pm, Hot Springs Park, Ouray. 2 nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run -
This run circumnavigates a 13.9 mile loop around the City of Ouray on USFS trails. The run
is scheduled to coincide with the Ouray Oktoberfest for even more enjoyment! Pre-registration
required. For information, visit www.ouraytrailrun.com

October 3, 2009: 45th Annual Jeep Raffle Drawing and Oktoberfest celebration! Beer, Brats and Bavarian Music: Return of the popular Bavarian band, The Austrian Connection!!!!!!!!
Ouray Community Center 5-10 pm! Join us for spectacular San Juan Mnt Color then stop in for an evening celebration with live music, local brews and more! Sponsored by the Ouray Chamber Resort Association. (Gypsie costumes are ok ONLY if you got the Bulgarian e-mail last week, you may not win a prize thought.....!)

Requested links for the chamber chat:

Chamber Chat 9-30-09

Lora — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:11:00 -0700

OCRA Chamber Chat:

Sept 30, 2009

IN THIS ISSUE:

New Local "Live Sound" Service from our own Red Mountain Radio LLC

Beautification Committee needs to hear from you!

2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run

Polka Band booked for Oktoberfest!

Living with Wildlife presentation

Rocky Horror Picture Show

Seasonal Closures- hours and what not

Locals day on the train -- Sunday, November 1st.

Winter Days of Play…
For a complete list visit OurayColorado.com

Get ready for winter activities with a little Yoga at Inner Mountain and dance with Weehawken! Ouray, Colorado, we have it all

Feature and other notices:

The Hot Springs Pool will be CLOSED for cleaning and general maintenance: October 19 - 25, 2009

STOP THE PRESSES:

New Local "Live Sound" Service

September 25, 2009 (Ouray, CO) - Red Mountain Radio LLC is pleased to announce the addition of live sound reinforcement to its list of services. This service is appropriate for local live music and events such as conferences, meetings, and theater. Complete packages for live music at small and mid sized venues include an 800 Watt digital front of house (FOH) mix, monitors, microphones, and set-up. A down-tempo music DJ service is also offered for openings, receptions, and music between live sets.

Red Mountain Radio LLC partners Eric and Ethan Funk are both electrical engineers with formal music training and a history of engineering mixes for live music and radio. "We have been asked many times if we can provide this type of service and we are now pleased to have a complete set of equipment in place."

Please visit "sound.redmountainradio.com" for additional information and rates.

Red Mountain Radio LLC specializes in electronics engineering design including radio, wireless, radar, and digital broadcasting for customers throughout the U.S.

# # #

For more information about Red Mountain Radio LLC please call Eric Funk at 970-325-2158x12, e-mail Eric at eric@redmountainradio.com, or visit redmountainradio.com.

The Beautification Committee needs emails/ letters from the community in support of grant and funding requests so they may continue their efforts in Ouray. Letters of support are a very important part of the process and your support in this way would be very much appreciated. showing support it would help their cause. Please send email/letters to jossiranch@ouraynet.com

October 3, 2009, 2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run

10am – 2pm, Hot Springs Park, Ouray. 2 nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run - This
run circumnavigates a 13.9 mile loop around the City of Ouray on USFS trails. The run is scheduled to
coincide with the Ouray Oktoberfest for even more enjoyment! Pre-registration required. For information,
visit www.ouraytrailrun.com

October 3, 2009: 45th Annual Jeep Raffle Drawing and Oktoberfest celebration! Beer, Brats
and Bavarian Music: Return of the popular Bavarian band, The Austrian Connection!!!!!!!!
Ouray Community Center 5-10 pm! Join us for spectacular San Juan Mnt Color then stop in for an
evening celebration with live music, local brews and more! Sponsored by the Ouray Chamber Resort
Association.

October 8 : Our next Living with Wildlife presentation on October 8 will feature Brian Holmes, CDOW Conservation Biologist, on the Black-footed Ferret Recovery Project. This project is an interesting model for a species that was thought to be extinct until a small colony was discovered in WY and bred in captivity to produce stock for returning to the wild. Unfortunately, the ferret is dependent on the prairie dog, and they have been attacked by plague in CO this year, so a great many of the reintroduced ferrets have been lost. 626-4496

October 23 &24 Rocky Horror Picture Show- A Benefit for the Friends of the Wright Opera House. Doors open at 9:30 show at 10 pm. $12 donation for your "RHPS" goodie bag at the door, costumes encouraged. Over 21 only

Change of Hours? See below for updates!

* Ouray Hot Springs Pool Hours: Winter hours begin on Tuesday Sept 8: Mon-Fri. 12-8:45, Sat. Sun 11-9. Pool will be closed for cleaning October 19 through October 25, 2009.

*Ouray Mule and Carriage will run tours ALL winter! Details coming! We are now giving tours by reservation and no longer doing the hourly runs. We've had good success in the last couple weeks operating this way so unless the roads are not passable don't hesitate to direct people to call us at: 970-708-4946 to set up a tour.

*San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours will run until Nov. 1.

*Spa Vivante has moved from the Beaumont Hotel and is now called Vivante Spa Therapy.The new office is on 2nd Street. All Riverstone, Massage, and Spa Body Treatments are still available by Sherrah Taylor. In October, Sherrah will also be working at Ouray Medical Center at 824 Main Street. All organic Starflower Facial and Body Products and Shining Mountain Herbs will be sold there. To make an appointment please call 970-209-8387.

Restaurant	Winter Hours	P.O. Box/
Artisan Bakery
Backstreet Bagel & Deli	Open Year Round b-fast and lunch Specials:	1466
Bon Ton 325-4951	Closed Tues and Wed starting late Oct. Specials: Thursday -Pasta Night	667
Buen Tiempo Mexican Restaurant 325-4544	Closed for lunch Specials:	667
Bulow's Bistro Restaurant 325-7000		740
Coachlight Restaurant & Tavern	Open 7 days a week at 5:00p.m. thru September and then starting in October we will go to our winter schedule of Friday, Saturday, & Sunday. Coachlight Restaurant is now open Tuesday thru Saturday and closed on Sundays and Mondays. Our last day for the summer season will be Saturday Sept 26, 2009	1051
Gold Belt	Closing for the winter	548
Historic Saloon Restaurant	Closed for the winter, open for catering and special events.	25
Maggie's
O'Brien's Pub 325-4386	Closed on TUESDAY Specials:	864
Ouray Café'
Ouray Swim & Snack House 325-4813	Open Specials:	679
Outlaw Restaurant	4:30 until 9:00 7 days a week until the middle of October and then it will be 5:00-9:00 6 days a week (Closed Mondays). Also we are going to be closed Nov. 8-19. We will be open Saturday the 7th and then reopen on Friday the 20th. Specials:	59
Papillion Main	Closed on Wed Specials: Monday Night Football Buffet, Music on the weekends	7
The Bistro at Billy Goats Gruff	CLOSED for the winter	486
Timberline Deli and Catering 325-4958	Open 7 days a week. Specials: Thai Dinner on Sat and Sun Fried Chicken 7days a week

Ouray Massage Therapy has a new location at 8th & Main. (in the Cutting Edge building)

Locals get $10 off all sessions all year. Contact: 318-1113

Best Regards, B.J.

Chamber Chat 10 22 09 What do Rocky Horror and Send out Cards have in common?

Lora — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 23:37:00 -0700

OCRA Chamber Chat:

Oct. 22, 2009

IN THIS ISSUE: Board of Director's Nominations NOW being sought! Please send suggestions to the chamber and our nominating committee will follow up with those individuals! Make a difference, be an active member of the Board of Directors!

Did you love the flowers this summer? Let the Beautification know with a letter of support!

Rocky Horror Picture Show

Send out Cards with Sendoutcards.com Sat. Oct 24.

Trick or Treat on Main Street Halloween

OURAY ELKS HAUNTED HOUSE SET FOR OCTOBER 31ST

Info on Heritage Tourism

Seasonal Closures- hours and what not

OURAY ELKS SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

Locals day on the train -- Sunday, November 1st.

Winter Days of Play…
For a complete list visit OurayColorado.com

Get ready for winter activities with a little crossfit with Allen, yoga at Inner Mountain and dance with Weehawken! Ouray, Colorado, we have it all!

Links to members

2009 OCRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Feature and other notices:

The Hot Springs Pool will be CLOSED for cleaning and general maintenance: October 19 - 25, 2009

Ouray is nothing short of Bountiful with Weehawken! Check out their website for a full list of fabulous classes!

The Beautification Committee needs emails/ letters from the community in support of grant and funding requests so they may continue their efforts in Ouray. Letters of support are a very important part of the process and your support in this way would be very much appreciated. Please send email/letters to jossiranch@ouraynet.com . Committee meetings - monthly, the second Wednesday, beginning at 3:30 PM in the Community Center's San Juan Room

Saturday, Oct. 24- Send out Cards with Sendoutcards.com, just in time for the holidays! We are going to show people the SendOutCards.Com system. You are able to take your photographs and digital graphics and easily incorporate them into your own personal greeting card. When you click "Send Card" we print the card, stamp it, and mail it for you. A card to a group is a feature that allows you to do Holiday cards in minutes. A free gift is given to all attendees and there is no charge for admittance. The event is taking place Saturday, October 24 between 3:00 and 5:00 pm at Backstreet Bagel. Bring a friend and have fun!

Saturday, Oct. 31:
Trick or Treat on Main Street Halloween Night from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Sponsored by: THE CITIZENS STATE BANK OF OURAY . Post the attached poster in your window to let the kiddies know to stop in!

Saturday, Oct. 31: The Ouray Elks Lodge 492 will once again be presenting their Haunted House on October 31st. This is a favorite event for area children and adults alike; this year's theme is the Haunted Mansion, loosely based on the recent Disney film. The fun begins at 6:30 PM and runs until 8:30. Admission fee for one trip through the house and a goodie bag is just $3 per person, with a $10 rate for a family of four. Come experience the Haunted Mansion, complete with the Dining Room, the Library, the Graveyard, the Attic, the Pit, and the singing statues. For more information, call Manette at 325-0095.

Heritage Tourism:

"We are proud to announce the release of a new research study that reveals the popularity of cultural and heritage travel in the United States - travel to the very places that are featured on Gozaic.com!

This study, conducted by Mandala Research and sponsored by Heritage Travel, Inc. and Gozaic.com, is the first of its kind to segment cultural and/or heritage travelers. It reveals that 78% of all U.S. leisure travelers participate in cultural and/or heritage activities while traveling (118.3 million adults each year). Even more important is cultural and heritage travelers spend an average of $994 per trip - compared to $611 spent on the average U.S. trip. This contributes over $192 billion annually to the U.S. economy.

The study delves into the specific habits of cultural and heritage travelers, the reasons why they travel, and the activities they enjoy while traveling - providing detailed and valuable industry information and reconfirming the size of this lucrative market. For more information and statistics from the study, please read our recent press release:

New Study Reveals Popularity of U.S. Cultural and Heritage Travel

If you have any questions about this study, please feel free to contact us at 202-588-6200 or by email at hti_partner@gozaic.com. "

Best regards,

Scott Gerloff

Vice President, Partner Relations

sgerloff@gozaic.com

Change of Hours? See below for updates!

Restaurant	Winter Hours	P.O. Box/
Artisan Bakery	Closed Tuesdays, closed at noon on Sunday, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.
Backstreet Bagel & Deli	Open Year Round b-fast and lunch Specials:	1466
Bon Ton 325-4951	Closed Tues and Wed starting late Oct. Specials: Thursday -Pasta Night	667
Buen Tiempo Mexican Restaurant 325-4544	Closed for lunch Specials:	667
Bulow's Bistro Restaurant 325-7000	Closed Oct. 10 until Thanksgiving. Will re-open for lunch and dinner. Tundra-Closed for winter	740
Coachlight Restaurant & Tavern	Open 7 days a week at 5:00p.m. thru September and then starting in October we will go to our winter schedule of Friday, Saturday, & Sunday. Coachlight Restaurant is now open Tuesday thru Saturday and closed on Sundays and Mondays. Our last day for the summer season will be Saturday Sept 26, 2009	1051
Gold Belt	Closing for the winter	548
Historic Saloon Restaurant	Closed for the winter, open for catering and special events.	25
Maggie's
O'Brien's Pub 325-4386	Closed Nov. 1-19 and on TUESDAY's Specials: Poor and Hungry Monday Dart League this winter!	864
Ouray Café'
Ouray Swim & Snack House 325-4813	Open Specials:	679
Outlaw Restaurant	4:30 until 9:00 7 days a week until the middle of October and then it will be 5:00-9:00 6 days a week (Closed Mondays). Also we are going to be closed Nov. 8-19. We will be open Saturday the 7th and then reopen on Friday the 20th. Specials:	59
Papillion Main	Closed on Wed Specials: Monday Night Football Buffet, Music on the weekends	7
The Bistro at Billy Goats Gruff	CLOSED for the winter	486
Timberline Deli and Catering 325-4958	Open 7 days a week. Specials: Thai Dinner on Sat and Sun Fried Chicken 7days a week

* Ouray Hot Springs Pool Hours: Winter hours begin on Tuesday Sept 8: Mon-Fri. 12-8:45, Sat. Sun 11-9. Pool will be closed for cleaning October 19 through October 25, 2009.

*San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours will run until Nov. 1.

*V&S: Open 9-9 7days a week thru out Sept

OURAY ELKS SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

Jim Pettengill, scholarship chairman at Ouray Elks Lodge 492, has announced that application forms for scholarships from the Elks National Foundation and for local Elks scholarships are now available. "There are two principal kinds of national and state scholarships," said Pettengill. "Legacy Awards are available to children or grandchildren of active Elks, and Most Valuable Student Scholarships are available to anyone – you do not need to have an Elk in the family to apply for a MVS award. In addition, the MVS applications are used by the local lodge to award four scholarships to local students."

Deadlines for these Elks scholarship applications have changed this year. MVS applications must be turned in to either the student's school counselor or to Pettengill no later than November 2, 2009; Legacy Award applications are sent directly to the Elks national office, and are due by January 8, 2010. "This year application forms must be downloaded from the Elks national website at www.elks.org/enf " said Pettengill. "Click on Scholarships and follow the instructions. Anyone needing information or assistance can contact their counselor or call me at 626-4239. The early deadline is approaching rapidly, so students should start the process now. Helping our local students to further their education is one of the most important of our community assistance programs."

What are your winter hours and closures?

Requested links for the chamber chat:

City of Ouray: (view City Council Agendas prior to the meetings) www.cityofouray.com

Jeep road condition updates: http://soajeep.com/custom1.shtml

Newspapers: Ouray Plaindealer and Ridgway Sun - www.ouraynews.com;

Ouray County Watch- www.watchnewspapers.com

Ouray Chamber Resort Association (OCRA) – www.ouraycolorado.com

Ouray County Performing Arts Guild (OCPAG) – www.ocpag.org

Ouray County Arts Association (OOAA) – www.ourayarts.org

Ouray County Historical Society: www.ouraycountyhistoricalsociety.org

Ouray Ice Park: http://www.ourayicepark.com

Ouray Trail Group - www.ouraytrails.org

Painting Marmot Art Supply and Art School www.paintingmarmotart.com

Rays Good Stuff, jerky, jellies and more. The perfect gift! http://raysgoodstuff.com

San Juan Mountain Guides: New Classes www.ourayclimbing.com/

Weehawken Creative Arts (WCA) – www.weehawkenarts.org

Yankee Boy Conservation Association: http://www.yankeeboy.org

Ouray Beautification Committee: Committee meetings - monthly, the second Wednesday, beginning at 3:30 PM in the Community Center's San Juan Room.

2009 OCRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Karen Avery (2009/11) President

Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs

325-4981

Chris Bonatti (2007-2009) Vice President

The Outlaw Restaurant

HM: 325-4366

Nancy Wolkin (2009-2010)Treasurer

Denim of Antiquity

Store: 325-4924

Cell: 596-1079

Clint Boots (2008-2010) Secretary

Citizens State Bank

325-4478

Rob Megna (2008-2009)

Backstreet Bagel

Cell: 530-575-1333

Festival

Bill Leo (2007-2009)

Ouray Mountain Sports

325-4284

Jill Schoenebaum (2008-2010)

4 J+1+1 RV Park

w)325-4418 H) 325-4864

Michelle Poirer (2009-2011)

Timber Ridge and Matterhorn Lodges

Cross Fit

325-325-4856

Ice climbing for Halloween

Danika — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 23:17:00 -0800

I think this may have been my earliest outing ever for ice... and what a great day it was. Drove up Eureka to take the skis and ice tools for a walk. On the drive we noticed a little flow just south of Whorehouse that looked good - and no skis needed. We drove a little higher to make sure it was the best looking flow; here's the report:

Stairway - thin, fragile looking, but had ice on all the pitches
1st & 2nd gullies and the rest of the S. facing flows - very wet, thin and falling down
Whorehouse - thin and lots of water, a little ice

Heard news of some very wet conditions and marginal ice in S. Mineral Creek, but didn't check it out.

Here's the flow we climbed. Sorry for the bad pic - all I had was the cell phone...

Also worthy of noting - there was good ice forming up on Gravity's Rainbow and the ice up in Bear Creek. The afternoon heat is melting it all fast though...

OCRA Community Blogs

Eureka Ice Conditions

Bridalveil Falls is IN!!!

Bridalveil

Whorehouse Hoses

Camp Bird Road Climbs

General Conditions

Gravity's Rainbow

Bridalveil Falls

San Juan ice conditions

February Ice Conditions

Ouray Colorado Away.com article

Ouray Conditions

Canadian Rockies Trips

Ouray Chamber Chat

Ouray has a new Interactive Travel Brochure

Camp Bird Road - Yankee Boy Access

Sunday Wall - Unaweep Canyon

Bachelor Syracuse Mine Tour Gets Mentioned

Great Article from the Tampa Bay Tribune on Wild Flowers

Small Town, Big Dining

Culinary Retreat Offered in Ouray

Chamber Chat - May 5th

OCRA Chamber Chat

Mooses Tooth, Ham and Eggs

OURAY ELKS BINGO BEGINS JUNE 3RD

Kort McCumber & McCumberland Gap to Play Wright Opera House

Chamber Chat

OCRA Chamber Chat: Annual Members Meeting will be held 6/03/09 at 9 am. Held at the Ouray Community Center! Meet the publishers of the 2010-2013 Visitors Guide and hear what the chamber had been doing for YOU!

Chamber Chat -- June 3rd

OCRA Chamber Chat: June 03, 2009 (can you believe it is June already!!)

Please share with us your 4th of July activities,special hours, etc.

Thank you! Jennifer

****Montrose Harley Rally will be held June 18-20! 500 + are registered, and they are going to visit Ouray!! Be ready!

First Summer Concert on Father’s Day

“Ouray County Ranching Stories” Kicks Off OCHS Evenings of History Lecture Series

Chamber Chat -- June 10, 2009

OCRA Chamber Chat:

Please share with us your 4th of July activities,

special hours, etc. Thank you! Jennifer

Let the Games and Lunch Begin!

Peak 11,300 SW Ridge

Alpine Climbing Conditions in the San Juans

Uncompaghre Gorge Canyon Zip-Line

Summit for Someone Course

Dallas Peak South Face Couloir

Maiden Voyage, Black Canyon

JULY 4TH EVENTS

July 3rd

July 4th

Mt Wilson - El Diente Traverse

News from Ouray

What’s Happening in Ouray

Summer in the San Juans

The Dolomites!

OCRA Chamber Chat

Check out Ouray Colorado Chamber on facebook and post your photos of Ouray!

Sept 9, 2009

Chamber Chat 9-16-09

[OCRA Members] Chamber Chat 9 23 2009

Chamber Chat 9-30-09

Chamber Chat 10 22 09 What do Rocky Horror and Send out Cards have in common?

Ice climbing for Halloween

Please share with us your 4^th of July activities,special hours, etc.

Please share with us your 4^th of July activities,

July 3^rd