Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau Newsletter
August,  2012
Pet Friendly vacations

August as here, a time of year some refer to as the "Dog Days of Summer." So we thought we'd highlight some ways our many dog-owning visitors can visit California's Gateway to Yosemite.

Read on for some great places pet owners can stay, places to visit and more.

And of course, we have some other great things to see and do and our monthly list of sales, travel incentives and more.


Sincerely,
Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau
In this issue
:: Pet-Friendly Options
:: Museum, Arts Council team up
:: Concerts in the Park
:: Tribal Culture on Display
:: Concert at "The Logger"
:: Bass Lake Home Tour
Pet Friendly options
Ways to stay and play with your
furry friends  

Dodger
Dodger, the friendly face of Rivercreek Golf Course 
For many people, it's not a vacation without taking their pets along. Never fear, for California's Gateway to Yosemite has many options for pet -friendly travel.

If you're into camping, Yosemite South KOA welcomes pets at all campsites. They even boast a dog-walking trail to and from the clubhouse.
Ficklin Vineyards pet friendly
 
Want to try some of the wineries along the award -winning Madera Wine Trail? You're in luck, as Cru Wine Company, Fasi Estate Winery and Ficklin Vineyards are pet-friendly. 

Want to stay at Bass Lake? Miller's Landing proudly welcomes dogs in their cabins. They even welcome them on their rental boats, so your pup can take to the waves.

The award-winning Apple Blossom Inn allows pets in the Red Delicious room and Golden Delicious suite - they both have private entrances so don't go through the common eating areas.  

Another popular Bed and Breakfast, Vulture's View, welcomes pets and is even offers an exclusive special: Book 3 mights and get 50% off the 3rd night.  Must mention black and white cat when making reservation.

Located in the Sierra National Forest, the three cabins of Far Meadow offer quiet seclusion, proximity to Yosemite, and of course, plenty of room for your favorite furry friend to run around. 


The historic Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad encourages dog lovers to bring their pets, as long as dogs are friendly and on a leash.

The Holiday Inn Express in Chowchilla welcomes pets, and offers a full trail for walks.

Enjoy a stay at the historic Sierra Sky Ranch with your best friend, and enjoy dinner at the Branding Iron Steak House on property, which has new hours, Wednesday through Sundays.

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite's Fido- Friendly Package includes a plush dog bed and water bowl for use during stay, and a canine fact sheet with fun suggestions on pet-friendly areas to roam, plus complimentary doggie treats for special wags and rewards. For truly deserving dogs, ask about the Deluxe Pampered Pet Package.

If you're planning a vacation but feeling uneasy about boarding your pet, All Kritter Sitters offers bonded and insured pet-sitting services in your home. As added peace of mind, they provide social media updates about your pets while you are away. If you are planning a trip, call All Kritter Sitters today 1-855-257-4883.

If you want to take in some tunes with your beloved pet, the free Friday night concerts at Appellation California  and Yosemite Lakes Park are pet friendly.


To see a full list of pet friendly accommodations, and where in Yosemite your dog is or isn't able to join you, visit our website and click on "Pet Friendly."  

 

Madera County Arts
Council, Children's Museum team up

Pair offer photo, art classes through Chukchansi Grant 


Photo class at Children's Museum
Diana Baldrica instructs kids on the basics of photography. 

The Children's Museum of the Sierra in Oakhurst is teaming up with the Madera County Arts Council to offer photography and art classes, thanks to a Chukchansi Community Grant.  

 

Classes started this week at the museum and continue for three more weeks. Kids interested in the classes can still attend.

 

The photography courses are Monday and Wednesdays, while the art courses are Tuesdays and Thursdays.

 

For a full schedule or more information, visit the Children's Museum or MCAC websites.   
 
Concerts in the Park

Madera County Arts Council
A team competes in Tree Felling at the 2011 Logger's Jamboree

The Madera County Arts Council  once again hosts a series of concerts at Lions Town and Country Park in Madera.

 

A total of five concerts will be held in the scenic outdoor venue located on Howard Road on the western side of town. The music ranges from classic rock to  gospel and 70-80's hits.

 

The music starts at 7 pm and runs until 9 pm. The concerts are free to enjoy, just bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the tunes.  

 

To learn more, visit http://www.maderaarts.org/ or call 559-661-7005.

Tribal culture on display in North Fork

Indian Fair Days and Pow Wow Aug. 4-5

Ivory Gardner performing fancy shawl dance
Ivory Gardner performs a Fancy Shawl Dance at the annual Indian Fair Days and Pow Wow in North Fork.

Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada mountains have been home to numerous Native American tribes for centuries.

 

The community of North Fork, which is located in the exact geographic center of California, is home to the Mono tribe. Each August, the tribe celebrates the rich heritage of the native peoples of the region and beyond with the annual Indian Fair Days and Pow Wow. This year's event takes place August 4 and 5.

 

As many as one dozen, and possibly more, tribes from throughout the United States will be on hand to showcase their unique customs as they all gather to celebrate their heritage. There will be a hand-game tournament, food and craft vendors showcasing tribal art as well as a dance competition.  

 

The event takes place at the North Fork Recreation Center located at 33057 Road 230 in North Fork.  

 

Gates open at 9 am both days. Tickets cost $2 ahead of time, and can be purchased at the Sierra Mono Indian Museum in North Fork. Entrance is $5 at the gate.

 

For more information, contact the museum at 559-877-2115, email at staffmonomuseum@gmail.com or online at www.SierraMonoMuseum.org  

 

Concert at "The Logger" Aug. 17
Carmel Helene

 A rising star in the music industry performs live at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad.

  

Carmel Helene, a solo artist who is also known for her role as a backup singer for performers like Miley Cyrus, Michael Bolton as well as her performances at the American Music Awards and Country Music Awards, will perform at the picnic area at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on August 17 fresh off a European tour.   

 

The concert will include the railroad's famous steak dinner at 6. The train departs the station at 7, with music starting about 7:30. Tickets cost $75 and include the meal and train ride.

To book, call 559-683-7273 or visit www.YosemiteSteamTrains.com.  
Bass Lake Home Tour 
Bass Lake Home Tour
An exciting addition to this year's tour is a newly constructed home near Bass Lake Heights. The 3 story, cubist modernist residence is approximately 6,200 square feet, all white stucco, steel, and glass, and is completely solar powered. 

The 7th Annual Bass Lake Home Tour will take place on Saturday, September 8, 2012 from 10 am to 3 pm. The event is sponsored by the Bass Lake Lions Club in conjunction with Bass Lake Realty.

 

Several custom homes will be graciously offered for touring by their owners. Self-guided tours will begin in The Pines Village at Bass Lake beside the Bass Lake Realty office. The Lions Club will prepare and serve a delicious lunch, included in the price, for tour participants from 11 am - 2 pm.

Fun events and travel incentives 

Businesses offer discounts and other travel incentives


Free concerts continue at Appellation: California Appellation California
The popular concert series at Appellation: California in Madera continue through August. 3 Guys Playing the Blue takes the stage Aug. 3, followed by Remnants on Aug 10. The Executive Rockers will perform Aug 17, Beale St. Band on Aug 24 while Square 1 wraps up the month on Aug 31.

Apple Blossom Inn offers picnic packageApple Blossom Inn, Yosemite Area Bed and Breakfast

Enjoy the beauty and natural splendors of Yosemite National Park for a two-night stay at the award-winning Apple Blossom Inn. Ask for the picnic package to enjoy Yosemite National Park, luxurious accommodations and a delicious picnic lunch for a great price. 

  

   

Magic Show to benefit Boys and Girls Club of OakhurstBoys and Girls Club of Oakhurst

Local magician Robin Pedranti will put on a special performance at the Golden Chain Theatre on August 3 to benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Oakhurst. The show starts at 7 pm. Tickets are $25 for adults and kids 12 and under are $15. Visit the Boys and Girls Club online to learn more.  

 

Erna's Elderberry House hosts an Evening in Vienna  Erna's Elderberry House logo  

Enjoy a scrumptious summertime Viennese meal at Erna's Elderberry House on August 25. Let strolling musicians serenade you with the melodies of Old Vienna, the music of Johann Strauss and Lehar, and popular winesongs that have you wanting to hum along. Take time out from your daily routine, "travel to Vienna" and treat yourself to an evening of fine food and entertainment. To entice all loyal guests, Miss Erna has priced this Evening in Vienna very attractively: for an all inclusive $100.00, it's dinner, music,
tax and gratuity. 559-683-6800    
     

   

Friday at Fresno Flat    Fresno Flats Historic Park

On August 10, Friday at Fresno Flats presents Dr. Madison Seamons, DVM MS, a professional horseman who practices equine medicine, surgery and dentistry in Coarsegold. The public is invited to attend Dr. Seamons' program which is certain to offer something for everyone.  Fresno Flats is located on School Road (427) in Oakhurst. A delicious and bountiful dinner is offered at 5:30 followed by Madison Seamons, Cowboy Poet, Artist and well-respected equine veterinarian. Admission $10.00. Call 559-683-2161 for more info.      

  

 

Hampton Inn Madera offers discount Hampton Inn Madera  

Take $10 off any room when you stay 2 nights or more from Aug.1 to 31st. Here at the Hampton Inn & Suites, 3254 Airport Drive, Madera CA 93637. Call 559-661-0910 to make your reservation.

 

 

Holiday Inn Express Gateway to Yosemite offers Yosemite Package

In the package offered by Holiday Inn Express   you will receive a map of Yosemite National Park and a guide to Yosemite Valley to plan your trip ahead of time. We will give you a $10 GAS CARD and also a $5-off Coupon to Farnesi's Steakhouse for you to enjoy.  Also, you will receive 2 chilled SMART WATERS to help you keep cool on your trip up to the mountains.        

    

Fun events at Oakhurst Feed and Pet SupplyOakhurst Feed and Pet Supply 

 In honor of AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days turning 10 this year, Oakhurst Feed & Pet Supply will be hosting events during four weekends in the month of September.  Events range from a Craziest Pet Trick Contest to informative workshops. Contact Oakhurst Feed & Pet Supply for details (559) 683-7977 or visit us on Facebook  

  

The Pines Resort at Bass Lake offers sizzling summer deals The Pines Resort on Bass Lake The Pines Resort has an exclusive summer offer: Book any 2 mid-week nights and receive a $50 meal voucher at Ducey's on the Lake. While there, enjoy a fast Internet connection thanks to their new resort-wide WiFi upgrade. 
 

Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau offers fishing reports 

The Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau is offering updated fishing reports compliments of the pros at What's Biting Now Lure and Tackle Company. Alan is an experienced guide who can help make your next fishing expedition the best ever.      

 

Friday Nights at the Lake in Yosemite Lakes Park The Blue Heron at Yosemite Lakes Park

Free concerts continue at Yosemite Lakes Park ever Friday night throughout August. Wild Hare takes the stage August 10, followed by Lark Spur Entertainment August 17 while Fantasy will perform August 24. Rockville wraps up the month on August 31.  

 

Package deals from Yosemite Skyway Vacation Rentals Yosemite Skyway Vacation rentals

Starting in October, Yosemite Skyway Vacation Rentals will team up with White Cloud photography to provide package deals: Photo hikes with photo assistance, accommodations, food, and transportation. Other packages will include fishing, biking and more. Contact Yosemite Skyway Vacation Rentals for more information.  

  

Planning on visiting? You can book your stay right on our website! Visit http://www.yosemitethisyear.com/where-to-stay, browse our properties and book your stay right there on the site!

You can also book your room on our Facebook page now as well.

 

Sincerely,

Jarrod Lyman
Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau