Media Contact: Gaylene Ore Ore Communications (970) 887-2536 e-mail:  gaylene@orecommunications.com       FRASER, COLORADO Elev. 8575 ft./ Pop.910   History:  The town of Fraser was originally settled as the town of Eastom, the railhead for a bustling logging industry.  Logging remained an important industry well into the 1940’s, when recreation became a dominate factor in the local economy.  With the influx of seasonal visitors, the community gained new importance as the commercial center for the east end of the Fraser Valley.  Today, Fraser serves as the retail center for locals and visitors alike.  The town boasts a large  supermarket, and a retail center anchored by a small department store, as well as a liquor store, bike shop, coffee shop, restaurant, dry cleaners, furniture store, electronics shop, and others.  Restaurants and other retail shops line the “old town” strip along US Highway 40.    What to Do: The Walk Through History Park in Fraser is home to a collection of sculptures by local artist J.M. Hoy depicting scenes from the history of Grand County and Colorado.  During the winter, the Fraser Tubing Hill is a favorite of locals and visitors alike.  The nearby Fraser Experimental Forest offers access to camping and several excellent hiking, mountain biking and snowshoe trails, including the challenging Byers Peak trail.   Lodging:  Reasonably-priced lodgings are available at the town’s motel and several condominium complexes, and camping is available in the nearby Fraser Experimental Forest.   Events:  The High Country Stampede Rodeo, held Saturday evenings during the summer at the John Work Arena near Fraser, showcases the best local amateur and professional contestants.  The Lions Club fishing ponds come alive each June for the Fraser Valley Fly Fishing Festival, with equipment demonstrations, a boat show, and fishing contests for anglers of all ages.   Fun Fact:  Byers Peak Ranch near Fraser was once known as the 'Western White House'.  President Eisenhower, President Hoover and other dignitaries visited the ranch to fly-fish and relax, Colorado-style. The Fraser River, in particular the ruggedly spectacular Fraser River Canyon, was a favorite fly-fishing destination of the late President Eisenhower.  Today, the river and nearby streams remain some of the best Rocky Mountain trout waters in the state.    Another Fact:  The town served as the site of a prisoner-of-war camp during 1945-46 for German soldiers captured during the Battle of Anzio; many of the prisoners worked loading lumber onto rail cars at nearby mills.    Grand County, Colorado is the perfect year-round destinations with activities ranging from a family ski adventure to a real Western trail ride. For additional information on Grand County and an online Trip Planner check out www.grand-county.com or call 800-729-5821.