Yosemite happenings in March and beyond

Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau Newsletter	March, 2013

A rainbow lights up the mist of Bridalveil Fall

March is a special time in California's Gateway to Yosemite. Not quite winter, but not quite spring either. The result is you get the best of both worlds. One day you may experience bright sunny weather and the next a blanket of snow creates beautiful scenery and a feeling of calm and serenity.

Read on for some great events and happenings throughout the region, as well as some enticing travel
incentives.

Sincerely,

Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau

In this issue

:: Madera Wine Trail celebrates Rhone Varieties

:: New Chef at Crab Cakes

:: Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad kicks off season

:: Madera Arts Council celebrates 30 years

:: Yosemite Tours

:: Springhill Suites updates Internet

:: Woodcarver's Rendezvous

Madera Wine Trail celebrates the Rhone Varieties

Take to the Trail March 2 between Noon and 4 pm for a special showcase of the award-winning wines for which Madera County is known. The participating wineries will highlight their Rhone varietals including: Petite Syrah, Syrah, Grenache Noir, Mourvedre and various blends.

While visiting, enjoy wine production information, education on Rhones from winemakers themselves, who will be available to discuss the techniques that go behind making such a delicious product.

Click for participating wineries and ticket info.

New chef at Crab Cakes

Visalia native Brian Velasquez takes over as Executive Chef of Crab Cakes in Oakhurst.

Changes continue at the popular Oakhurst eatery Crab Cakes.

The restaurant, fresh off its relocation to a much larger venue, has announced the hiring of L. Brian Velasquez as the new Executive Chef.

Chef Velasquez has more than 20 years' experience in high-intensity culinary production and upscale cultural dining. He brings a new attention to creativity and focus on local ingredients to the Crab Cakes Menu.

To learn more about the chef or experience his culinary passion, plan an evening at Crab Cakes.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad to kick off season

The sound of steam engines will be heard once again just south of Yosemite as the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad kicks off its 2013 season starting this month.

The Jenny Railcars begin operating on March 16. Steam Engine rides roll out starting March 27, weather permitting.

For a full schedule and more information, visit www.YosemiteSteamTrains.com.

Madera County Arts Council celebrates 30 years

The Madera County Arts Council commemorates 30 years of promoting art and artists in Madera County with a community celebration March 23.

The evening will take place at the Hatfield Hall at the Madera District Fair Grounds from 6 to 9 pm.

The evening is set to be a fun celebration of all the council's and the county's artists have accomplished over the last three decades while also setting the stage for future growth.

Tickets cost $75. To purchase or find out more, call 559-661-7005.

Easiest way to see Yosemite: Take a tour

Yosemite National Park is such an amazing place. You can spend weeks there without seeing everything. Many visitors are overwhelmed with all that there is to see and do. Later they find out they've missed out on some great opportunities.

That's where the tour companies come in to play. They offer various packages that let you explore Yosemite without having to drive, meaning you get to pay attention to the scenery, not the roads. You'll learn more about the park than you ever could on your own, letting you come away loving the park that much more. From photo tours to hiking excursions, private tours to groups, our tour partners have you covered. Visit our transportation page to see what options are available.

Springhill Suites makes huge improvement to Internet

Springhill Suites by Marriott in Madera

The popular Springhill Suites by Marriott in Madera just completed a massive upgrade of their Internet service, upgrading to a 10mbps system.

The upgrade was part of a planned company-wide boost in Internet capabilities, but the Madera property opted to make the switch a year ahead of time.

The $20,000 project delivers faster connections to guests with uninterrupted service. The new system can easily accommodate the higher demands placed on it by the increased usage of laptops, tablets and smart phones.

Woodcarver's Rendezvous returns to Oakhurst
Sierra Woodcarver's Rendezvous

The California Carvers Guild has announced the 6th Annual Oakhurst Woodcarver's Rendezvous will take place April 14 through 21.

The event will once again be held at the Oakhurst Community Center.

"This special week of carving is guaranteed to be fun for the whole family, and we would like to extend a special invitation for everyone to come and join us," said Larry Smith, co-chair of the event.

There will be carving classes, demonstrations and seminars for all l

Registration costs $105 for a single person or $160 per couple from the same household for the entire week. Attendees will need to bring their own knives, tools and equipment.

The event will also include an Open House on Saturday, April 20.

Lodging arrangements have been made with the Comfort Inn, High Sierra RV Park and Elks Lodge. For more information, contact Smith at 559-658-2405 or Jack Parks at 562-425-0732.

Fun events and travel incentives

Businesses offer discounts and other travel incentives

Apple Blossom Inn offers picnic package

Apple 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.

Pair of holiday celebrations at The Blue Heron

The Blue Heron in Yosemite Lakes Park will be celebrating St. Patrick's Day with a Gaelic Irish Band, Irish food and green beer on March 17 from 4-7 pm. Then they will celebrate Easter with a special Brunch on March 31 from 11-2. The cost is $21.95 for adults and $12.95 for kids. Reservations and more information can be obtained by calling 559-658-6969.

Celebrate St. Patty's Day at Crab Cakes

Crab Cakes in Oakhurst has a Corned Beef and Cabbage special planned for St. Patrick's Day. Enjoy the traditional Irish favorite for only $12, with $6 from every plate going to North Fork's Squirrel Cage Theater. There will also be live music, and a delicious Bailey's Irish Cream Cake dessert by Sweet Dreams Cakery. Make your reservations by calling 559-641-7667.

Easter Sunrise at ECCO

Event: Easter Sunrise Service at ECCO

Starts: Sunday, March 31, 6:30 am

Price: Free and no reservations required.

Location: Evergreen Conference Center Oakhurst (ECCO), outdoor chapel

43803 Hwy 41, Oakhurst, CA 93644

Details: Breakfast to follow the service. $11, reservations required

Phone: Kristen, 559.683.8162

Email: programs@ECCOyosemite.org

Learn more about ECCO at www.ECCOyosemite.org

Getaway for less at Fresno/Yosemite International Airport

Now you can enjoy the serenity or of snow-capped Colorado mountains with new non-stop air service from Fresno to Denver beginning May 17 with Frontier Airlines! Introductory fares are as low as $69 to $118 each way. Go to www.flyfrontier.com for details.

Fresno Flats hosts March Mingle

On March 8, Fresno Flats Friday presents MARCH MINGLE,the opening event of their third season of popular dinners and programs of local interest. MARCH MINGLE will be an evening offering wine tasting from San Joaquin Wineries, Crab Cakes' hearty appetizers, Sandy Schaefer's chocolate and a" Meet and Greet" for members and friends of Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park. Proceeds from all Friday night programs go toward maintaining the Village Museum buildings. The event will take place in the Cunningham School at Fresno Flats located on School Road (427). Doors open at 5:30. The public is invited to attend. Admittance is $10.00. Details: 658-2019

Have your Holiday gathering at Hampton

Spring into spring at Hampton Inn & Suites, 3254 Airport Drive, Madera, CA. Get 10 per cent off all rooms, from a Standard room to a Luxury in-room Jacuzzi Suite, plus free winetasting for two at one of our local wineries. You must call the hotel directly to get our Spring into Spring deals. 559-661-0910.

Get free complete breakfast, free parking, free WI-FI, free use of pool, business and fitness center!

Holiday Inn Express: Royal Romance Package

What could be more romantic than arriving at a Jacuzzi Suite to find eaiting for you a bottle of champagne and delicious chocolates on the bed? After a night of romance you will enjoy a hearty hot breakfast-in-bed. It's a perfect way to rekindle the flames. For couples who prefer, sparkling cider will be provided in lieu of champagne. We would love to help set the mood and are willing to work with you to fulfill any special requests. Please contact us at 559 665 3300 if you would like to add any other special touches to your romantic getaway. This package must be reserved 3 days in advance. Once booked there will be no refunds or changes to the package, which includes the room and its amenities.

King Vintage Museum to unveil new museum

Exciting news at the Wild Wonderful King Vintage Museum: Opening in March,"THE TEDDY BEAR MUSEUM IN THE SIERRAS" featuring 100's of Teddy Bears from 1902.

President Teddy Roosevelt, after whom the Teddy Bear was named, is celebrated. Featuring a history of the "GOOD BEARS OF THE WORLD". The Gift Shoppe includes teddy bears and other items for sale. Open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 am to 4 pm. Call 559-658-6999 for more information.

Narrow Gauge Inn announces "Getaway with your pet"

The Narrow Gauge Inn wants your whole family, pets included, to enjoy a nice vacation. Enjoy 2 Nights in a Queen Room for Two (upgrades based on availability)

Includes: Doggie treat made by our chef w/recipe, chew toy, additional variety of treats & traveling water bowl for $209 Sunday through Thursday and $289 Friday and Saturday. Pet policies apply.

Paradise Springs hosts free bridal show

Calling all future brides! Paradise Springs hosts a free bridal show on Sunday, April 28 from noon to 4 pm. Paradise Springs is located at

52770 Road 632 in Oakhurst. Enter to win a "Wedding Day" package giveaway - Must be present to win, some restrictions apply.

Yosemite getaway at The Pines Resort at Bass Lake

The Pines Resort on Bass Lake is a perfect destination for your Yosemite Getaway. For a limited time book a two-night stay in a chalet for only $179. In addition, if you present your Yosemite entry ticket, you will receive extra $20 off. That's two nights for $159! Call (800) 350-7463 to make your reservation. Valid any day of the week, by March 28, 2013. More details on www.basslake.com

Winter Special at The Redwoods in Yosemite

Yosemite This Winter ~ *One FREE Night!

December 1, 2012 - March 23, 2013

20% off your 1st night stay
20% off your 2nd night stay
50% off your 3rd night stay
*4th night FREE!

Offer is not valid with any other discount or during holiday periods. Not valid on existing reservations. Offer expires March 23, 2013. Call 866-470-3720 or visitwww.RedwoodsInYosemite.com

Winter Preferred Guest Offer

The Tenaya Lodge is offering a nice package through March 25. Book deluxe rooms midweek, including breakfast for two, just $139.

Weekends only $50 more - that's 70% off peak season! Use promotional code WINTERVIP.

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