Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau
Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau April 2010
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In This Issue
Article Headline
April-May
Events

April 7-11 Annual Chowchilla Stampede

April 10 - Racing at theChowchilla Speedway

April 14 - Madera Flea Market

April 17 - Walking Tour of Fresno Flats

April 17 - Racing at Madera Speedway

April 17 - Raymond Parade and Family Fun Day

April 18-25 - 3rd Annual Wood Carver's Rendezvous

April 30-May 2: Coarsegold Rodeo

May 1 - Bass Lake Arts and Crafts Fair

May 1 - Racing at the Chowchilla Speedway

May 1 - Racing at the Madera Speedway

May 13-16 - Madera County Fair at the Chowchilla Fairgrounds

May 15- Spring Wine Trail Adventure

May 15 - Release Party on the Grass

May 15 - Chowchilla Spring Festival Parade

May 22 - Racing at Madera Speedway

May 25 - Racing at the Chowchilla Speedway

May 30 - Racing at the Chowchilla Speedway


 
Greetings!

Just like the blooming of wildflowers, each April many season businesses in Madera County open their doors. Additionally, many fun and exciting events occur. Read on for more information about what new there is to see and do in California's Gateway to Yosemite, as well as exciting discounts and promotions.
 
Sincerely,
 
Jarrod Lyman
Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau
 
Like wildflowers,businesses open in spring
Favorite spots open for businessThe Forks Resort
April is here, and that means spring has returned to Madera County. With the warmer weather comes popular, seasonal businesses once again opening their doors.

The Forks at Bass Lake, known for their world famous Forks Burger, opened this month to much acclaim and long lines for the first burger of the season. The Forks is also a great vacation spot for someone looking to head out to Bass Lake for a stay. The modern cabins, accommodating four to eight persons, are located near the lake, most with lake views. Fishing, boating water skiing and swimming are just outside the cabin door. Numerous hiking trails are nearby.

Paradise Springsis another property that opened up this month. Located in the Sierra National Forest, Paradise Springs has five cabins of varying size surrounded by 100 acres of scenic nature. A great place for a secluded getaway, Paradise Springs is also becoming one of the most popular wedding locations in the region.

A fun attraction that has opened for the season is Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad. "The Logger" takes you on a ride through the Sierra Nevada National Forest and through history. In addition to the authentic Shay locomotives, YMSPRR has the Thornberry Museum and gold panning for kids. It's an authentic ride through history.

Many campgrounds also reopen during this time of year. If you're in the mood to "rough it" or are just looking for a fun family getaway without the electronic tethers, then log on to www.recreation.gov. 

Cattle auctions give glimpse in to rural life
Producer's Livestock makes for fun Tuesdays
For many Madera County residents, farming and ranching is a way of life. But for the numerous visitors who come through Madera County, the agricultural lifestyle is something new and exciting. The cattle auctions are a fun way to get a firsthand look at the ranchers way.

Every Tuesday at 10:00 am, one of the best auctioneers in the country takes the stage as cattle are bought and sold to the highest bidders. Visitors can get an up close and personal look at one aspect of ranch life. The auctions are free for the public. 
 
Next wine trail weekend coming May
Next event May 15 and 16

The family wineries of the Madera Wine Trail will host "Spring  Wine Trail Adventure" on May 15 & 16  from 10 am to 5 pm.

Wine lovers may purchase a Passport Glass for $25 at any of the participating wineries both days of the event, or purchase ticketsin advance for $20. Guests will be able to  sample fabulous local wines complemented by indulgent foodpairings, local art and live music, all while enjoying
conversation with the vintners themselves.


Birdstone Winery
Chateau Lasgoity
Ficklin Vineyards
Idle Hour Winery
Mariposa Wine Company
Quady Winery
Westbrook Wine Farm
Vineyard 208

If you can't wait until May, then perhaps you would like to join the Winemakers of the Madera Wine Trail on April 15th at 5:30pm for their Madera Wine Education Series presented by Tesoro Viejo.  The "Spring Wines & Pairings" class will feature Mike Blaylock from Quady Winery, Anna Marie dos Remedios from Idle Hour Winery, and Tony Kirk from Birdstone Winery at the Vineyard Restaurant.  $40 class fee includes 8 wines, food pairings & materials.  To register email Holly Carter at holly@passantinoandersen.com or call(559) 281-9210.


New quarter to feature Yosemite
New quarter looks like a million bucksYosemite Quarter
The US Mint recently announced a new line of quarters honoring some of the nation's most popular, and beautiful, national parks. No surprise that chief among the new quarters is the iconic Yosemite National Park.

The Yosemite quarter features Yosemite rising majestically over the valley and the Merced River on the "tails" side of the quarter. The Yosemite quarter, the third in the series, will be minted in July of this year.

Ways to stay and play for less
Discounts, deals and promotions you can use 

Bass Lake Water Sports is offering 20% off all boat rentals midweek throughout the month of April.

Receive a $39, 50 minute relaxation massage from Body Centre Wellness Spa. This deal is good on Friday's only through April, or any Sunday.

The Hampton Inn in Madera has a pair of specials. First, you can receive a special rate of $79 if you mention the newsletter. If you're planning a trip with a large group, reserve ten rooms and receive either a jacuzzi suite or meeting room for free.

The Holiday Inn Express in Chowchilla is offering a free night with two night's stay. Use the promo code Stay2.

The Madera Valley Inn is offering $20 off their corporate rate for anyone mentioning this newsletter.

Sierra Meadows Golf Course is offering a frequent player card for discounts starting in May. The card normally sells for $40, but will be given FREE during the month of April.