Check out Sierra Tel today for a Christmas present that will let you keep in touch with those you love.
To plan your southern Yosemite vacation, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
4 days until Christmas
Only four days till Christmas and my true love gave to me ... 4 calling birds..on phones from Sierra Tel.
Our partners over at Sierra Tel aren't just providers of phone service, they also have a great selection of telephones, great gifts for Christmas. Be it a picture phone, cordless phone with all the latest features, or even a decorative telephone, they've got something for everyone.
Check out Sierra Tel today for a Christmas present that will let you keep in touch with those you love.
To plan your southern Yosemite vacation, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com.
Check out Sierra Tel today for a Christmas present that will let you keep in touch with those you love.
To plan your southern Yosemite vacation, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
5 Days before Christmas
Five days before Christmas and my true love gave to me - 5 Golden rings Chukchings!
Head on over to the Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino for all kinds of Holiday fun. Try your luck at the slots, hit the table games, or dine at one of their seven restaurants, each with a fun atmosphere and fantastic menu.
Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino is the largest tribal casino in central California and it shows in the amenities they offer. Turn your luck around this Christmas with a trip to Coarsegold's own Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino!
To see all of the great attractions in Madera County: California's Gateway to Yosemite, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com.
Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino is the largest tribal casino in central California and it shows in the amenities they offer. Turn your luck around this Christmas with a trip to Coarsegold's own Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino!
To see all of the great attractions in Madera County: California's Gateway to Yosemite, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com.
Yosemite Daily Report for Dec 20
To start planning your Yosemite Vacation, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com!
Wawona
Respected education news website, Education Week , featured an article about the success of the NPS partnership with NatureBridge to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. The article delves into the NPS commitment to expand educational programs to reach a quarter of America’s schoolchildren as part of the “Call to Action” initiative to honor the NPS Centennial in 2016. NatureBridge and other partners are a key component of the strategies NPS will use to meet that lofty goal. The article also provides an interesting profile of broader NatureBridge goals and initiatives, which are at the core of what we're doing in Yosemite. Visit the Education Week website to read more about STEM education and a very cute description of 6th graders in a field science program at NatureBridge’s Golden Gate campus: http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/12/14/14parks.h31.html?tkn=SUVFcLLei7rZx7qVxmbk7tSCu77x8wjMEa81&cmp=clp-edweek. (M. Carr - 12/19)
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EMPLOYEE NEWS
*************************************************
The last phase of utility work at the Tecoya Dormitories is now underway with the replacement of the sewer lines serving the Northern units. ASI is installing the majority of the new lines using a drilling method instead of open trenching. Areas that cannot be drilled due to soil conditions will have to be trenched. This area is very congested and difficult for the contractor to work in. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. There will be no work during the holiday period from December 24th through January 2nd. (G. Rothell - 12/14)
______________________________________________________
Foresta Road Closure - Slide Repair Between Rancheria and Old El Portal
Starting Monday, November 14th the Foresta Road will be closed between Rancheria and Old El Portal as crews complete a slide repair from a spring 2011 slide. The Foresta Road will be closed at 7:00 AM on November 14th and remain closed for approximately 2-3 months, while crews complete the stabilization work. The crews are planning to work 6-days per week, Monday thru Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Due to the safety concerns, it will require a hard closure, meaning that throughout the duration of the project, there will be no access for pedestrians, bicycles, passenger vehicles, trucks, etc... Access will be limited to construction crews and emergency vehicles only. Trucks will also be using middle road to access CA St. Rte. 140, so please be cautious as you are traveling thru this area of Hwy. 140. Also, crews will be bringing in equipment and materials starting Thursday, November 10th, with intermittent single lane traffic control along Foresta Road. (M. Pieper - 11/10)
*************************************************
ACTING DESIGNATIONS
Ron Gaunt will be acting Branch Chief of Construction and acting Branch Chief of Design for Project Management, beginning Friday, December 16, 2011, through Thursday, December 22, 2011. Ron may be reached at 379-1027 or you may leave a message with Ashley Wilde at 379-1221.
Mike Yochim will be the Acting Division Chief for the Planning Division Dec. 19th though the 22nd. You may phone Mike in his El Portal office at 379-1441. Mae Frantz will be the Acting Division Chief Friday, December 23rd. Mae may be reached in her El Portal office at 379-1218. If either are unavailable you may leave a message with Doyle Harrison at 379-1110.
Peggy Moore (379-2177) will be acting Branch Chief for Vegetation and Ecological Restoration December 20-30, 2011.
Jim Roche will be the Acting Chief of Physical Science and Landscape Ecology from Monday, December 19 through Friday, December 30. Jim can be reached at 379-1446 (office) or 742-3452 (cell).
Ann Roberts (379-1383) will be Acting Branch Chief of Environmental Planning and Compliance from Tuesday, December 27 to Thursday, December 29, 2011.
David Stone will be out of the Park from Friday, December 9 through Wednesday, December 21. He will have limited cell reception, but may be reached, with urgent issues, by 209-372-8458.
Julie Byerly will be acting Deputy Chief Ranger from Saturday 12/3 through Sunday 12/18, she can be reached at 372-0243.
Andy Fristensky will be Acting Deputy Chief of Interpretive Operations until further notice. He may be reached at 372-0599.
Jeffrey Trust will be Acting Yosemite Valley Field Interpretation Supervisor until further notice. He may be reached at 372-0307.
Greg Torres will be Acting Trails Supervisor 11/30 through 1/3. He can reached at 742 8811.
Ron Watson will be the Acting Supervisory Information Technology Specialist until further notice. He may be reached at 379-1074.
Brenna Lissoway (379-1283) is on a detail as the Park Archivist. If you have need to access the Archives, or have archive related questions, you can call 379-1282 or 379-1104.
*************************************************
COMMUNITY NEWS
Yosemite Winter Club Ice Skating Program Sign-Up Nights
Have you always wanted to learn to ice skate? If so, sign-up for ice skating lessons for the 2011-2012 season will be on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 from 5:30 to 6:00 PM and on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 from 5:30 to 6:00 PM. Figure skating lessons are offered for anyone 5 years and up. To participate in the ice skating program, you must be a member of both the Ice Skating Institute (ISI) and the Yosemite Winter Club. Registration forms for both organizations will be available when you sign up or you can go on-line to join ISI at www.skateisi.com and the Yosemite Winter Club at www.yosemitewinterclub.com. For more information you can contact either Carol at 742-4410 or Beckie as 372-8642. (B. Jonasky - 12/20)
______________________________________________________
Daily Report - Yosemite National Park
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
WEATHER
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
WEATHER
Yosemite Valley
Today: Sunny, with a high near 44.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a steady temperature around 36.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 46.
Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 44.
Today: Sunny, with a high near 44.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a steady temperature around 36.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 46.
Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 44.
No snow.
El Portal
Today: Sunny, with a high near 62.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 33.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 63.
Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 61.
El Portal
Today: Sunny, with a high near 62.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 33.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 63.
Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 61.
Wawona
Today: Sunny, with a high near 53.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 23.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 54.
Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 51.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 23.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 54.
Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 51.
**************************************************
PARK AND PARTNER NEWS
PARK AND PARTNER NEWS
Yosemite Archives Closure
The Yosemite Archives will be closed to regular research appointments Dec 27-30. For emergency access please contact Archives staff at 209-379-1283. (B. Lissoway - 12/20)
______________________________________________________
The Yosemite Archives will be closed to regular research appointments Dec 27-30. For emergency access please contact Archives staff at 209-379-1283. (B. Lissoway - 12/20)
______________________________________________________
Traffic Counter Installation
There will be minor roadway work in locations throughout the park associated with installing traffic counters. Locations and dates (weather permitting) are as follows: El Cap Cross Over at Southside Drive; and Arch Rock; Tuesday 12/20 South Entrance. Please use caution when workers are present. For more info: Bret Meldrum 379-1216. (B. Meldrum - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
There will be minor roadway work in locations throughout the park associated with installing traffic counters. Locations and dates (weather permitting) are as follows: El Cap Cross Over at Southside Drive; and Arch Rock; Tuesday 12/20 South Entrance. Please use caution when workers are present. For more info: Bret Meldrum 379-1216. (B. Meldrum - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
Yosemite Conservancy Mourns Two Giants
Jon B. Lovelace Feb 6, 1927 - Nov 16, 2011 / Sibyl Ann Otter Aug 19, 1935 - Dec 12, 2011
With a very sad heart, we share the recent passing of two of our friends and former board members, Jon Lovelace and Ann Otter. These gracious souls were deeply involved in preserving the environment, promoting health and science, and advancing the arts and education through generous philanthropy and activity on many boards. They both loved Yosemite beyond words and hiked the backcountry regularly. While you may not know their names, you have experienced their generosity. A fundraising legend, Ann, with her husband Dick Otter, was a founding member of The Yosemite Fund and most passionate about the Museum, all the while giving widely to Conservancy projects and programs. A wise and modest businessman, Jon chaired the Capital Group Companies and, with his wife Lillian Lovelace, built the capacity of the Fund and its successor, Yosemite Conservancy. He was most excited by trail repair – particularly over Red Peak Pass - the reintroduction of peregrine falcons and big horn sheep, and the new helicopter rappel tower. Both individuals served on our Project Review committee to help direct donor funds into the park. The Conservancy and the public will be forever in their debt. We will miss them. (M. Tollefson - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
NatureBridge and NPS featured in Education Week Jon B. Lovelace Feb 6, 1927 - Nov 16, 2011 / Sibyl Ann Otter Aug 19, 1935 - Dec 12, 2011
With a very sad heart, we share the recent passing of two of our friends and former board members, Jon Lovelace and Ann Otter. These gracious souls were deeply involved in preserving the environment, promoting health and science, and advancing the arts and education through generous philanthropy and activity on many boards. They both loved Yosemite beyond words and hiked the backcountry regularly. While you may not know their names, you have experienced their generosity. A fundraising legend, Ann, with her husband Dick Otter, was a founding member of The Yosemite Fund and most passionate about the Museum, all the while giving widely to Conservancy projects and programs. A wise and modest businessman, Jon chaired the Capital Group Companies and, with his wife Lillian Lovelace, built the capacity of the Fund and its successor, Yosemite Conservancy. He was most excited by trail repair – particularly over Red Peak Pass - the reintroduction of peregrine falcons and big horn sheep, and the new helicopter rappel tower. Both individuals served on our Project Review committee to help direct donor funds into the park. The Conservancy and the public will be forever in their debt. We will miss them. (M. Tollefson - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
Respected education news website, Education Week , featured an article about the success of the NPS partnership with NatureBridge to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. The article delves into the NPS commitment to expand educational programs to reach a quarter of America’s schoolchildren as part of the “Call to Action” initiative to honor the NPS Centennial in 2016. NatureBridge and other partners are a key component of the strategies NPS will use to meet that lofty goal. The article also provides an interesting profile of broader NatureBridge goals and initiatives, which are at the core of what we're doing in Yosemite. Visit the Education Week website to read more about STEM education and a very cute description of 6th graders in a field science program at NatureBridge’s Golden Gate campus: http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/12/14/14parks.h31.html?tkn=SUVFcLLei7rZx7qVxmbk7tSCu77x8wjMEa81&cmp=clp-edweek. (M. Carr - 12/19)
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EMPLOYEE NEWS
Yosemite Directive # 7 - Fiscal-Related Park Closure
Yosemite has created a new directive for a fiscal-related park closure. This can be found on the Superintendent's Sharepoint site. (K. Kosick - 12/20)
Yosemite has created a new directive for a fiscal-related park closure. This can be found on the Superintendent's Sharepoint site. (K. Kosick - 12/20)
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CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Utility work at the Tecoya Dormitories The last phase of utility work at the Tecoya Dormitories is now underway with the replacement of the sewer lines serving the Northern units. ASI is installing the majority of the new lines using a drilling method instead of open trenching. Areas that cannot be drilled due to soil conditions will have to be trenched. This area is very congested and difficult for the contractor to work in. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. There will be no work during the holiday period from December 24th through January 2nd. (G. Rothell - 12/14)
______________________________________________________
Foresta Road Closure - Slide Repair Between Rancheria and Old El Portal
Starting Monday, November 14th the Foresta Road will be closed between Rancheria and Old El Portal as crews complete a slide repair from a spring 2011 slide. The Foresta Road will be closed at 7:00 AM on November 14th and remain closed for approximately 2-3 months, while crews complete the stabilization work. The crews are planning to work 6-days per week, Monday thru Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Due to the safety concerns, it will require a hard closure, meaning that throughout the duration of the project, there will be no access for pedestrians, bicycles, passenger vehicles, trucks, etc... Access will be limited to construction crews and emergency vehicles only. Trucks will also be using middle road to access CA St. Rte. 140, so please be cautious as you are traveling thru this area of Hwy. 140. Also, crews will be bringing in equipment and materials starting Thursday, November 10th, with intermittent single lane traffic control along Foresta Road. (M. Pieper - 11/10)
*************************************************
ACTING DESIGNATIONS
Ron Gaunt will be acting Branch Chief of Construction and acting Branch Chief of Design for Project Management, beginning Friday, December 16, 2011, through Thursday, December 22, 2011. Ron may be reached at 379-1027 or you may leave a message with Ashley Wilde at 379-1221.
Mike Yochim will be the Acting Division Chief for the Planning Division Dec. 19th though the 22nd. You may phone Mike in his El Portal office at 379-1441. Mae Frantz will be the Acting Division Chief Friday, December 23rd. Mae may be reached in her El Portal office at 379-1218. If either are unavailable you may leave a message with Doyle Harrison at 379-1110.
Peggy Moore (379-2177) will be acting Branch Chief for Vegetation and Ecological Restoration December 20-30, 2011.
Jim Roche will be the Acting Chief of Physical Science and Landscape Ecology from Monday, December 19 through Friday, December 30. Jim can be reached at 379-1446 (office) or 742-3452 (cell).
Ann Roberts (379-1383) will be Acting Branch Chief of Environmental Planning and Compliance from Tuesday, December 27 to Thursday, December 29, 2011.
David Stone will be out of the Park from Friday, December 9 through Wednesday, December 21. He will have limited cell reception, but may be reached, with urgent issues, by 209-372-8458.
Julie Byerly will be acting Deputy Chief Ranger from Saturday 12/3 through Sunday 12/18, she can be reached at 372-0243.
Andy Fristensky will be Acting Deputy Chief of Interpretive Operations until further notice. He may be reached at 372-0599.
Jeffrey Trust will be Acting Yosemite Valley Field Interpretation Supervisor until further notice. He may be reached at 372-0307.
Greg Torres will be Acting Trails Supervisor 11/30 through 1/3. He can reached at 742 8811.
Ron Watson will be the Acting Supervisory Information Technology Specialist until further notice. He may be reached at 379-1074.
Brenna Lissoway (379-1283) is on a detail as the Park Archivist. If you have need to access the Archives, or have archive related questions, you can call 379-1282 or 379-1104.
*************************************************
COMMUNITY NEWS
Yosemite Winter Club Ice Skating Program Sign-Up Nights
Have you always wanted to learn to ice skate? If so, sign-up for ice skating lessons for the 2011-2012 season will be on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 from 5:30 to 6:00 PM and on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 from 5:30 to 6:00 PM. Figure skating lessons are offered for anyone 5 years and up. To participate in the ice skating program, you must be a member of both the Ice Skating Institute (ISI) and the Yosemite Winter Club. Registration forms for both organizations will be available when you sign up or you can go on-line to join ISI at www.skateisi.com and the Yosemite Winter Club at www.yosemitewinterclub.com. For more information you can contact either Carol at 742-4410 or Beckie as 372-8642. (B. Jonasky - 12/20)
______________________________________________________
Monday, December 19, 2011
6 days until Christmas...
With just six days until Christmas my true love gave to me: 6 geese a laying....around the lake by the Blue Heron in Yosemite Lakes Park.
Enjoy the views overlooking the lake at The Blue Heron as several large flocks of geese and other waterfowl swim in the calm waters. Watch herds of deer wander through the park as you dine of sumptuous food prepared by internationally known Chef Christian Mueller. Enjoy classic American fare, and even a few dishes from his native Germany - the schnitzel is fantastic - all in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.
If you have a special event coming up, or would like to plan a Christmas party, the Fireside Room offers the perfect opportunity. Delicious food, beautiful surroundings and affordable prices make it a winner this Christmas.
To learn more, visit www.theblueherononline.com.
To learn more about all the great dining, shopping and other vacation wonders in Madera County: California's Gateway to Yosemite, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com
If you have a special event coming up, or would like to plan a Christmas party, the Fireside Room offers the perfect opportunity. Delicious food, beautiful surroundings and affordable prices make it a winner this Christmas.
To learn more, visit www.theblueherononline.com.
To learn more about all the great dining, shopping and other vacation wonders in Madera County: California's Gateway to Yosemite, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com
Yosemite Daily Report for Dec 19, 2011
Remember, to start planning your Yosemite vacation, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com.
Wawona
Respected education news website, Education Week, featured an article about the success of the NPS partnership with NatureBridge to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. The article delves into the NPS commitment to expand educational programs to reach a quarter of America’s schoolchildren as part of the “Call to Action” initiative to honor the NPS Centennial in 2016. NatureBridge and other partners are a key component of the strategies NPS will use to meet that lofty goal. The article also provides an interesting profile of broader NatureBridge goals and initiatives, which are at the core of what we're doing in Yosemite. Visit the Education Week website to read more about STEM education and a very cute description of 6th graders in a field science program at NatureBridge’s Golden Gate campus: http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/12/14/14parks.h31.html?tkn=SUVFcLLei7rZx7qVxmbk7tSCu77x8wjMEa81&cmp=clp-edweek. (M. Carr - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
Yosemite National Park Rangers Staffing in Gateway Community Visitor Centers - news release
Park Providing Additional Staffing During Holiday Season
Scott Gediman 209-372-0248
Kari Cobb 209-372-0529
The last phase of utility work at the Tecoya Dormitories is now underway with the replacement of the sewer lines serving the Northern units. ASI is installing the majority of the new lines using a drilling method instead of open trenching. Areas that cannot be drilled due to soil conditions will have to be trenched. This area is very congested and difficult for the contractor to work in. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. There will be no work during the holiday period from December 24th through January 2nd. (G. Rothell - 12/14)
______________________________________________________
Foresta Road Closure - Slide Repair Between Rancheria and Old El Portal
Starting Monday, November 14th the Foresta Road will be closed between Rancheria and Old El Portal as crews complete a slide repair from a spring 2011 slide. The Foresta Road will be closed at 7:00 AM on November 14th and remain closed for approximately 2-3 months, while crews complete the stabilization work. The crews are planning to work 6-days per week, Monday thru Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Due to the safety concerns, it will require a hard closure, meaning that throughout the duration of the project, there will be no access for pedestrians, bicycles, passenger vehicles, trucks, etc... Access will be limited to construction crews and emergency vehicles only. Trucks will also be using middle road to access CA St. Rte. 140, so please be cautious as you are traveling thru this area of Hwy. 140. Also, crews will be bringing in equipment and materials starting Thursday, November 10th, with intermittent single lane traffic control along Foresta Road. (M. Pieper - 11/10)
*************************************************
ACTING DESIGNATIONS
Ron Gaunt will be acting Branch Chief of Construction and acting Branch Chief of Design for Project Management, beginning Friday, December 16, 2011, through Thursday, December 22, 2011. Ron may be reached at 379-1027 or you may leave a message with Ashley Wilde at 379-1221.
Mike Yochim will be the Acting Division Chief for the Planning Division Dec. 19th though the 22nd. You may phone Mike in his El Portal office at 379-1441. Mae Frantz will be the Acting Division Chief Friday, December 23rd. Mae may be reached in her El Portal office at 379-1218. If either are unavailable you may leave a message with Doyle Harrison at 379-1110.
Jim Roche will be the Acting Chief of Physical Science and Landscape Ecology from Monday, December 19 through Friday, December 30. Jim can be reached at 379-1446 (office) or 742-3452 (cell).
David Stone will be out of the Park from Friday, December 9 through Wednesday, December 21. He will have limited cell reception, but may be reached, with urgent issues, by 209-372-8458.
Julie Byerly will be acting Deputy Chief Ranger from Saturday 12/3 through Sunday 12/18, she can be reached at 372-0243.
Andy Fristensky will be Acting Deputy Chief of Interpretive Operations until further notice. He may be reached at 372-0599.
Jeffrey Trust will be Acting Yosemite Valley Field Interpretation Supervisor until further notice. He may be reached at 372-0307.
Greg Torres will be Acting Trails Supervisor 11/30 through 1/3. He can reached at 742 8811.
Ron Watson will be the Acting Supervisory Information Technology Specialist until further notice. He may be reached at 379-1074.
Brenna Lissoway (379-1283) is on a detail as the Park Archivist. If you have need to access the Archives, or have archive related questions, you can call 379-1282 or 379-1104.
Daily Report - Yosemite National Park
Monday, December 19, 2011
WEATHER
Monday, December 19, 2011
WEATHER
Yosemite Valley
Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 43.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 33.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 44.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 44.
Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 43.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 33.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 44.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 44.
Snow? No. No snow.
El Portal
Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 61.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 33.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 63.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 62.
El Portal
Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 61.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 33.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 63.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 62.
Wawona
Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 52.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 26.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 54.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 53.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 26.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 54.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 53.
**************************************************
PARK AND PARTNER NEWS
PARK AND PARTNER NEWS
Traffic Counter Installation
There will be minor work in roadway locations throughout the park associated with installing traffic counters. Locations and dates (weather permitting) are as follows: Monday 12/19 east of Crane Flat; west of the 120 Tunnels; El Cap Cross Over at Southside Drive; and Arch Rock; Tuesday 12/20 South Entrance. Please use caution when workers are present. For more info: Bret Meldrum 379-1216. (B. Meldrum - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
There will be minor work in roadway locations throughout the park associated with installing traffic counters. Locations and dates (weather permitting) are as follows: Monday 12/19 east of Crane Flat; west of the 120 Tunnels; El Cap Cross Over at Southside Drive; and Arch Rock; Tuesday 12/20 South Entrance. Please use caution when workers are present. For more info: Bret Meldrum 379-1216. (B. Meldrum - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
Yosemite Conservancy Mourns Two Giants
Jon B. Lovelace Feb 6, 1927 - Nov 16, 2011 / Sibyl Ann Otter Aug 19, 1935 - Dec 12, 2011
With a very sad heart, we share the recent passing of two of our friends and former board members, Jon Lovelace and Ann Otter. These gracious souls were deeply involved in preserving the environment, promoting health and science, and advancing the arts and education through generous philanthropy and activity on many boards. They both loved Yosemite beyond words and hiked the backcountry regularly. While you may not know their names, you have experienced their generosity. A fundraising legend, Ann, with her husband Dick Otter, was a founding member of The Yosemite Fund and most passionate about the Museum, all the while giving widely to Conservancy projects and programs. A wise and modest businessman, Jon chaired the Capital Group Companies and, with his wife Lillian Lovelace, built the capacity of the Fund and its successor, Yosemite Conservancy. He was most excited by trail repair – particularly over Red Peak Pass - the reintroduction of peregrine falcons and big horn sheep, and the new helicopter rappel tower. Both individuals served on our Project Review committee to help direct donor funds into the park. The Conservancy and the public will be forever in their debt. We will miss them. (M. Tollefson - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
NatureBridge and NPS featured in Education Week Jon B. Lovelace Feb 6, 1927 - Nov 16, 2011 / Sibyl Ann Otter Aug 19, 1935 - Dec 12, 2011
With a very sad heart, we share the recent passing of two of our friends and former board members, Jon Lovelace and Ann Otter. These gracious souls were deeply involved in preserving the environment, promoting health and science, and advancing the arts and education through generous philanthropy and activity on many boards. They both loved Yosemite beyond words and hiked the backcountry regularly. While you may not know their names, you have experienced their generosity. A fundraising legend, Ann, with her husband Dick Otter, was a founding member of The Yosemite Fund and most passionate about the Museum, all the while giving widely to Conservancy projects and programs. A wise and modest businessman, Jon chaired the Capital Group Companies and, with his wife Lillian Lovelace, built the capacity of the Fund and its successor, Yosemite Conservancy. He was most excited by trail repair – particularly over Red Peak Pass - the reintroduction of peregrine falcons and big horn sheep, and the new helicopter rappel tower. Both individuals served on our Project Review committee to help direct donor funds into the park. The Conservancy and the public will be forever in their debt. We will miss them. (M. Tollefson - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
Respected education news website, Education Week, featured an article about the success of the NPS partnership with NatureBridge to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. The article delves into the NPS commitment to expand educational programs to reach a quarter of America’s schoolchildren as part of the “Call to Action” initiative to honor the NPS Centennial in 2016. NatureBridge and other partners are a key component of the strategies NPS will use to meet that lofty goal. The article also provides an interesting profile of broader NatureBridge goals and initiatives, which are at the core of what we're doing in Yosemite. Visit the Education Week website to read more about STEM education and a very cute description of 6th graders in a field science program at NatureBridge’s Golden Gate campus: http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/12/14/14parks.h31.html?tkn=SUVFcLLei7rZx7qVxmbk7tSCu77x8wjMEa81&cmp=clp-edweek. (M. Carr - 12/19)
______________________________________________________
Yosemite National Park Rangers Staffing in Gateway Community Visitor Centers - news release
Park Providing Additional Staffing During Holiday Season
Scott Gediman 209-372-0248
Kari Cobb 209-372-0529
Yosemite National Park announces that Park Rangers will be staffing visitor centers in the gateway communities of Mariposa, Oakhurst, and Groveland from Saturday, December 17, 2011 through Monday, January 2, 2012. Park Rangers will be helping to staff the Mariposa Visitor Center, the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau in Oakhurst, and the Yosemite Chamber of Commerce in Groveland. The hours of each of the visitor centers varies.
The park has provided Rangers working in the gateway community visitor centers for the past several years. The Rangers help provide up-to-date information about the park, assist in trip planning, and sell park passes. In the visitor centers, park visitors can purchase the 2012 Annual Yosemite National Park Pass, the Interagency Annual Pass, the Lifetime Senior Pass, and the Access Pass. Additionally, visitors can purchase a single visit pass to the park that is good for any time during the 2012 calendar year.
“We are very happy to be able to provide Park Rangers to assist in staffing the gateway community visitor centers. We have received a lot of positive feedback about Rangers who have staffed these centers during the summer months. The holidays are a great time to visit Yosemite National Park,” said Don Neubacher, Yosemite National Park Superintendent.
For more information about Yosemite National Park and available passes, please visit www.nps.gov/yose . For information on each visitor center hours, please visit their website. (K. Cobb - 12/16)
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CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Utility work at the Tecoya Dormitories The last phase of utility work at the Tecoya Dormitories is now underway with the replacement of the sewer lines serving the Northern units. ASI is installing the majority of the new lines using a drilling method instead of open trenching. Areas that cannot be drilled due to soil conditions will have to be trenched. This area is very congested and difficult for the contractor to work in. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. There will be no work during the holiday period from December 24th through January 2nd. (G. Rothell - 12/14)
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Foresta Road Closure - Slide Repair Between Rancheria and Old El Portal
Starting Monday, November 14th the Foresta Road will be closed between Rancheria and Old El Portal as crews complete a slide repair from a spring 2011 slide. The Foresta Road will be closed at 7:00 AM on November 14th and remain closed for approximately 2-3 months, while crews complete the stabilization work. The crews are planning to work 6-days per week, Monday thru Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Due to the safety concerns, it will require a hard closure, meaning that throughout the duration of the project, there will be no access for pedestrians, bicycles, passenger vehicles, trucks, etc... Access will be limited to construction crews and emergency vehicles only. Trucks will also be using middle road to access CA St. Rte. 140, so please be cautious as you are traveling thru this area of Hwy. 140. Also, crews will be bringing in equipment and materials starting Thursday, November 10th, with intermittent single lane traffic control along Foresta Road. (M. Pieper - 11/10)
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ACTING DESIGNATIONS
Ron Gaunt will be acting Branch Chief of Construction and acting Branch Chief of Design for Project Management, beginning Friday, December 16, 2011, through Thursday, December 22, 2011. Ron may be reached at 379-1027 or you may leave a message with Ashley Wilde at 379-1221.
Mike Yochim will be the Acting Division Chief for the Planning Division Dec. 19th though the 22nd. You may phone Mike in his El Portal office at 379-1441. Mae Frantz will be the Acting Division Chief Friday, December 23rd. Mae may be reached in her El Portal office at 379-1218. If either are unavailable you may leave a message with Doyle Harrison at 379-1110.
Jim Roche will be the Acting Chief of Physical Science and Landscape Ecology from Monday, December 19 through Friday, December 30. Jim can be reached at 379-1446 (office) or 742-3452 (cell).
David Stone will be out of the Park from Friday, December 9 through Wednesday, December 21. He will have limited cell reception, but may be reached, with urgent issues, by 209-372-8458.
Julie Byerly will be acting Deputy Chief Ranger from Saturday 12/3 through Sunday 12/18, she can be reached at 372-0243.
Andy Fristensky will be Acting Deputy Chief of Interpretive Operations until further notice. He may be reached at 372-0599.
Jeffrey Trust will be Acting Yosemite Valley Field Interpretation Supervisor until further notice. He may be reached at 372-0307.
Greg Torres will be Acting Trails Supervisor 11/30 through 1/3. He can reached at 742 8811.
Ron Watson will be the Acting Supervisory Information Technology Specialist until further notice. He may be reached at 379-1074.
Brenna Lissoway (379-1283) is on a detail as the Park Archivist. If you have need to access the Archives, or have archive related questions, you can call 379-1282 or 379-1104.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
7th day before Christmas
The seventh day before Christmas, my true love gave to me seven swans a swimming the grace of a swan at the Tenaya Lodge ice skating rink, located just outside of Yosemite.
Nothing says The Holidays like a beautiful ice skating rink, and taking to the ice with friends and family. If the stresses of the Holiday season has you feeling like an ugly ducking, regain your inner - and outer- swan at the Ascent Spa at the Tenaya Lodge. You can even purchase gift certificates so your true love can choose the time of their pampering.
Nothing says The Holidays like a beautiful ice skating rink, and taking to the ice with friends and family. If the stresses of the Holiday season has you feeling like an ugly ducking, regain your inner - and outer- swan at the Ascent Spa at the Tenaya Lodge. You can even purchase gift certificates so your true love can choose the time of their pampering.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
8 Days until Christmas . . .
With just eight days until Christmas, my true love gave to me . . . not maids a milking, but eight gallons of fresh pomegranate juice from Home Grown Cellars!
Madera is the Heart of Pomegranate Country, and Home Grown Cellars showcases all that is wonderful about this amazing fruit. From fresh juice grown and squeezed right there on site, to honey created solely from the pollen of pomegranate trees and many many more products, Home Grown Cellars gift shop is stocked with goods that will let you find a gift for everyone on your list.
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