Videos Login Subscribe Renew E-edition
logo
ePaper
coogle_play
app_store
  • News
  • Features
  • Opinion
    • Columns
    • Letters
  • Obituaries
  • Classifieds
    • Place a Classified
  • Advertise
  • Contact us
  • Legal Notices
    • Read Statewide Legal Notices
  • Archives
    • News
    • Features
    • Opinion
      • Columns
      • Letters
    • Obituaries
    • Classifieds
      • Place a Classified
    • Advertise
    • Contact us
    • Legal Notices
      • Read Statewide Legal Notices
    • Archives
LOOKING BACK
Feature
August 7, 2024
OURAY COUNTY
LOOKING BACK
40 YEARS AGO

August 8, 1974 – Over 40 people attended the Ouray City Council meeting Monday night, most of whom opposed the issuance of a new 3.2 beer license in town. After hearing opinions from both sides, the council unanimously voted to deny the application of Frances Ann Holman for a license at 325 Sixth Ave., presently Hopscotch Leathers. Holman and LaVerne Wager proposed to operate the 3.2 establishment as partners. Keith Kelley, Ouray police chief, reported that the requested background check on the applicants had been made, and that “both ladies have a clean record.” Holman presented a petition favoring issuance of the license, and letters of recommendation from R.J. Scoggins, Robert S. Bowers and Dick Warren. Ron Cline, who operates a craft and gift shop near the location proposed for the 3.2 establishment, submitted a letter in opposition which stated that he believed such a business was not consistent with the types of stores presently on Sixth Avenue; that the location would be too near residential areas; and that there already are a number of establishments in town where 3.2 beer can be purchased.

Firefighters gain ground on Gold Mountain Fire
Main, News...
Firefighters gain ground on Gold Mountain Fire
Sheriff allows some evacuees to return home; blaze shifts away from populated areas
By By Mike Wiggins, Erin McIntyre and Deb Hurley Brobst mike@ouraynews.com erin@ouraynews.com 
July 8, 2026
Residents forced to flee the Gold Mountain Fire north of Ouray nearly two weeks ago returned to charred landscapes but fully intact homes Wednesday, an indication that authorities believe the threat h...
this is a test
Despite fire, downsized Fourth celebration marches on
Main, News...
Despite fire, downsized Fourth celebration marches on
By Erin McIntyre erin@ouraynews.com 
July 8, 2026
A scaled-back Fourth of July celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States and 150th birthday of Ouray attracted thousands to the city, despite the cancellation of fireworks, water fights and...
this is a test
First fire, then floods? Leaders start planning for next potential emergency
News
First fire, then floods? Leaders start planning for next potential emergency
By Deb Hurley Brobst Special to the Plaindealer 
July 8, 2026
Even though the Gold Mountain Fire is still burning, Ouray County officials are already thinking about flash flood risks in the burn scar as Colorado moves into monsoon season. “This is a predictable ...
this is a test
News
Water providers ask customers to pull back
Ridgway enacts mandatory irrigation restrictions
By Mike Wiggins and Erin McIntyre mike@ouraynews.com erin@ouraynews.com 
July 8, 2026
Water managers in Ouray County are asking residents to curtail water use and avoid putting more demand on their distribution systems in light of the Gold Mountain Fire and ongoing tinder-dry condition...
this is a test
News
Looking Back
50 Years Ago
July 8, 2026
July 7, 1966 Charges have been filed in Ouray County Court against three Ouray youths for violation of state statutes in climbing over a fence at the municipal swimming pool last Friday and breaking b...
this is a test
News
Following outcry, Ouray seeks gym solutions
City may move fitness center to empty building, assess bathhouse for possible remodel
By Mike Wiggins mike@ouraynews.com 
July 8, 2026
The city of Ouray is thinking about moving the fitness center from inside the historic bathhouse at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool to an empty building across the street from the Ouray Community Center. C...
this is a test
ePaper
coogle_play
app_store
ePaper
coogle_play
app_store
Editor Picks
A foam-filled Fourth
News
A foam-filled Fourth
July 8, 2026
this is a test
Good For You!
Feature
Good For You!
Celebrating 90 years, Neighbor to Neighbor's 20th anniversary and Ridgway mayor honored with good governance award
July 8, 2026
Neighbor to Neighbor celebrated its 20th anniversary in Ouray County with a potluck at Pa-Co-Chu-Puk at Ridgway State Park on June 25. Pictured here from left to right are: Alice Goertz, Patty Ratliff...
this is a test
Calendar & Events
Calendar & Events, Feature...
Calendar & Events
July 9-23, 2026
July 8, 2026
Thursday, July 9 Ridgway Concert Series: Black Uhuru with opener Psylo, free concert in Hartwell Park, 6 p.m. No dogs or outside alcohol allowed. Youth Garden Club: Compost Basics for ages 8-18, from ...
this is a test
Some evacuated areas will reopen to residents Wednesday
News
Some evacuated areas will reopen to residents Wednesday
By erin@ouraynews.com 
July 7, 2026
The Ouray County sheriff is allowing some residents to return to their homes in evacuated areas starting Wednesday morning. The sheriff's office approved re-entry for credentialed residents who live i...
this is a test
Wildlife displaced by fire, residents can help by providing water for animals
News
Wildlife displaced by fire, residents can help by providing water for animals
Commissioners to discuss emergency plans for flooding
By James Hanlon, Special to the Plaindealer 
July 7, 2026
Wildlife escaping the Gold Mountain Fire are moving closer to town, prompting state wildlife officials to advise the public on how they can simultaneously help animals and give them the space they nee...
this is a test
Facebook

Remote-triggered avalanche in San Juan Mountains

First responders receive first COVID-19 vaccines

Ouray County Plaindealer
Office address:

195 S Lena St. Unit D
Ridgway, Colorado 81432
970-325-4412

Mailing address:
PO Box 529
Ridgway CO 81432

This site complies with ADA requirements

© 2023 Ouray County Plaindealer

  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Accessibility Policy