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03/11/2014 03Ai 2013 Yakima Valley Tourism Annual Report
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A , L xi i ma . . , i. - A ,. • , , .,., . . . -:' .0' -",.. 4 " AI 2013 • . ei‘f •'''' 4 C 1. • '.............. ; M it i YAKIMA ANNUAL VALLEY REPORT . . ...... . --e- 1 YAKIMA VALLEY TOURISM a L and WHAT'S IN STORE FOR 2014 ' • ' - i4 41 r* . 4 . ...4 v. • ...?" iv.,‘ • 4 ... • V i . - • - ..' V Nil .. . . ' - a _,,, , •, ti. 1 5, ,.. :., . ... , „. I 1 c . i' ,...-- I ... ,;.../_ f2 T ulip i IP 11 . . - 1 , . ----.,,,, II , \ - ... "Hi Milli N ' , , \ .. • - 61 ' t Nt:' ' ... .[ ) , V. ...„,., • 1 . . . ^ __., l - 1 If ' . ,. ! . . . • --. 1 ... ' . , , , . .., - • ' , . -• , - i •_. -,.. LEADERSHIP MESSAGE We are proud to present our 2013 Annual Report on behalf of .. the Board of Directors and staff of Yakima Valley Tourism (formally • ._ + ■1 Yakima Valley Visitors & Convention Bureau). It was a productive E � ,,�, t4 year with new projects to improve tourism for the Yakima Valley. �; :'' r . y t, ~ Tourism continued modest growth in 2013. Lodging data for ;,;' � � ' "��; Yakima County shows that room occupancies grew 3.7%, the 1► }� ., 4 71;:a .._ _• �,.� average daily room rate grew 1 %, and room tax receipts grew - ` 'N. ' r , 4.6% over 2012. Local sales taxes also saw healthy growth. ' ' I. ; t / ' . r . ts Tourism plays an important role in the economy. According to 1. ;c= >� iN `' 111. ;, ' ' ` ` Washington State Tourism research: Travelers spent an estimated $354 million in Yakima County in 2012 (most recent year figures available). Visitors supported more than 3,580 jobs in tourism industries. * Dia Tourism created an additional 1,432 jobs for Yakima e / / County in support industries including finance, construction, food processing, education, insurance, real YA K I M A estate and wholesale trade. VALLEY Visitors to Yakima County generated $23 million in state and local taxes. These are new revenues that support our roads, police and fire services, parks and other vital services for our citizens. TOURISM 2020: Tourism is economic A STRATEGIC PLAN , - development creating ► jobs and local taxes. It In May 2013 the board and staff met to define 411) _ builds on our quality tourism visions for the Yakima Valley. These of life. Yakima Valley became the foundation for a six year strategic Tourism improves the plan for the organization and industry. economy in the Yakima t ■ / Valley by growing all The plan focuses on four core strategic areas: segments of the Ryan Beckett John Cooper tourism industry. Advocate for Infrastructure to 2013 Board Chair President & CEO Support & Grow Tourism Facilitate Business Development Opportunities w. Increase Sales & Marketing Efforts Grow Community & Government `` . Relations to Achieve Goals At the retreat the organization laid the foundation for a name change that better reflects future focus and direction, including product development. Starting in 2014 our name is now Yakima Valley Tourism. . 2 • 2013 Annua Report_ • YakimaValleyTounsm.com a . 1 �' I M1 ` • i , ai. di -h- ... . , O 1-'-i ` - _ ... I ]:, 1_ j h il 11 CONVENTION & GROUP SALES YAK I M A The meetings industry is an important part of Yakima Valley's tourism industry. Yakima Valley CONVENTION CENTER Tourism worked to grow this sector in 2013 with The Yakima Convention Center is the premier meeting facility in great success. Staff generated 181 leads (up 15 %) Central Washington and is a major generator of economic activity for and booked 36,837 room nights (up 70 %). Downtown Yakima. Sales Activities In 2013, attendees were able to enjoy and appreciate improvements Olympia based meeting planners are a vital source at the Center. In its third year, the Outdoor Plaza was utilized by 36 of group business to the Yakima Valley. We built groups for meal events, convention displays, and socials. That's a 33% on our relationships by hosting two networking increase in the use of the Plaza. Staff continued to upgrade the Center functions. In the spring we did a car-themed as part of its Capital Facilities Plan. reception at the LeMayAmerican Car Museum in Tacoma. The newness of the museum was a big After the previous caterer terminated its contract, the City of Yakima attraction and resulted in a record number of 62 went to public bid for a new caterer. In May, Centerplate Catering attendees from 31 associations. Our annual fall began full time operation in the Center. "Farmer's Market Luncheon Extravaganza" drew in 55 attendees. Guests loaded up on farm fresh The Convention Center hosted 118,745 visitors during 505 Yakima Valley produce while learning about the event days and brought in more than $8.3 million to the local improvements at the Yakima Convention Center economy in 2013. and updates within the hotel community. In addition to these events, the staff made many road trips to make sales calls to meeting planners. Convention Center Revenue Convention & Group Services $900,000 Quality visitor services helps convention $800,000 delegates learn about the Yakima Valley, provides member exposure plus helps to retain $700,000 — — groups. Our Volunteer Information Specialists $600,000 — logged more than 690 hours and assisted $500,000 — 2,655 convention delegates. $400,000 — Industry Involvement & Education $300,000 — By taking an active role in professional trade $200,000 — _ organizations, staff builds relationships and attracts conventions to the Yakima Valley. We $100,000 — — belong to trade organizations including the $ Washington Society of Association Executives and 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 the Society of Government Meeting Professionals - two key groups for group business. Total Earned Revenue YakimaValleyTourism.com • 2013 Annual Report • 3 Y P MARKETING J i .. The Marketing Department developed brand - specific content in both ~' digital and print formats. In 2013, we connected all of the content built 1 '`44 NI INC' I! dow over the years and added new media -rich campaigns, including the Spirits & Hops Trail (SpiritsAndHopsTrail.com) and Yakima Valley Made (YakimaValleyMade.com). 1. In the Spring, the airwaves - -- -- .. - - in the Seattle market were s o ss ' . : : 1 li ► ringing with a catchy :60 ma 1,-, - second and a :30 second ' ` ' r - '' radio commercial telling - ,, , :: soggy residents they could -, ' jf VISITOR "Find Spring" in the sunny _ ":rl�:^m^..^,i'."' Yakima Valley. _- INFORMATION Existing campaigns were """""' °"°""°` CENTER livened up with fresh content. _ . , The Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center (VIC) off The combination of previous Interstate 82 is one of the best information centers year's momentum for Farm in Washington State. The VIC staff is well- informed Fresh Fun, Yakima Valley Wine ® on lodging, dining, attractions, wineries, event Country, and Winedoggies information, outdoor recreation and much more. along with their fresh appeal brought a record 42% increase The VIC creates new visitor spending. In surveys in summer web traffic. conducted at the VIC, 20% of the visitors served `YAKIMAVALLEY extended their stays, with the majority staying at least The winter campaign hit a I _Ntaae one extra night. Using this data as a baseline, we record high in web traffic this season. The campaign, "Sip, estimate these extended stays resulted in a minimum ,a. Ski and Savor," was enhanced of $275,088 in new visitor spending. p «AX IXI�I MI ,Xi with a radio campaign in The VIC celebrated 10 years of service to the Seattle, targeted advertising community in 2013 with an anniversary party. in Spokane, a winter getaway rotary(' giveaway with local World'` ' ,.. t' . r Class Skier Andy Mahre, new -Aga- ".......L: attraction information from :,�:,, Vi=a I/ White Pass Ski Resort, and a * I r i ,�W1LLEY listing of winter events for &t ax; ; ;,,. . . Yakima Valley towns i (WinterinTheValley.com). }} I Media campaigns were supported with digital and print - advertisements in numerous state, regional and national media outlets. In addition, social and digital campaigns to drive targeted Group tours were hosted at the VIC for a number likes /follows were conducted in Google, Facebook, Twitter, and of community, business and educational groups. through third party, online sweepstakes. The groups were informed about the services the In 2013 our campaigns delivered 315,691 visitors to VIC has to offer. our website, a 25% increase over 2012. In 2013, the Visitor Information Center served 13,994 walk -in visitors plus responded to 7,562 people via online and mail. 1, -- ' ' ,�o�+ • 'Q` 1 013 Annual Report akimaValieyTou ` m corn t MEDIA & TRADE RELATIONS MEMBERSHIP Group & Leisure & EVENTS The Yakima Valley gained exposure through our attendance at industry, Membership consumer and media trade shows in 2013. Staff - participated in the More than 350 businesses and organizations following shows in 2013: are members of Yakima Valley Tourism, contributing in excess of $115,000 in dues to support our efforts to advance tourism. For their support, members receive many benefits • National Tour Association Travel Exchange — Orlando, FL • Go West Summit (international operators) — Fort Worth, TX • Travel Industry Association Pow Wow (international operators) and exposure to visitors. — Las Vegas, NV • Two Nation Vacation Travel Show (tour and travel trade) Marketing Opportunities — Portland, OR & Seattle, WA More than 30 e- newsletters went to • ITB (German tour operators) — Berlin, Germany members informing them of industry news, • Society of American Travel Writers Western Chapter Conference marketing, and sales tips plus organizational — Palm Springs, CA events and opportunities. The popular Yakima • Taste Washington (consumer wine show) — Seattle, WA Valley Official Visitors Guide TM was produced • Wine Tourism Conference (industry wine education and showcase) and distributed giving members and Yakima — Portland, OR Valley communities extensive exposure. In addition we partnered with Springhill Press to The Go West Summit will be in Tacoma in 2014, the first time the produce a new Yakima County street map. conference has been held in Washington State. We have partnered with Visit Spokane and Tourism Walla Walla on developing a Pre- Holiday Reception & Silent Auction Familiarization (FAM) Tour called Washington Wine Experience that The 24th Annual Holiday Reception & Silent was offered to international tour operators attending the conference. Auction welcomed more than 500 guests with a Great Gatsby theme. Thanks to the generosity Familiarization Tours and goodwill of Yakima Valley Tourism members An important role of Yakima Valley Tourism is to invite and host tours and the community, the event netted more than to the Yakima Valley in partnership with the local tourism industry and $36,000 for Yakima Valley Tourism and the state organizations like the Port of Seattle and Visit Seattle. A group of Visitor Information Center. U.K. tour operators visited the area in May and two media tours were hosted during the summer and fall for German travel media. 1 (; 1 .e. Media Exposure ' .,. _ ,;. In addition to calling and corresponding with writers, we targeted 1 I ;/ high profile travel, wine, and lifestyle bloggers. For example, in the , spring we hosted Cassandra LaValle, who writes the lifestyle blog, Coco +Kelly, which has 238,000 monthly website visits. GreenRubino remained our public relations firm that assists in generating travel media coverage of the Yakima Valley. By the end of ,, . the year, our collective editorial media efforts generated $572,029 . in advertising value in 96 publications /media outlets with a ,' combined readership exceeding 46 million. The Yakima Valley enjoyed editorial exposure in the following media in 2013: BLEND • AAA Journey Magazine • Seattle Magazine • The Oregonian In place of the Annual Lunch, in April Yakima • Alaska Airlines Magazine • Seattle Met Magazine • Willamette Living Valley Tourism tried a new evening wine • Coco +Kelly • Sunset Magazine Magazine event called BLEND. Special guest speaker • Edible Seattle • The Mom Reviews was Rex Pickett, screenwriter, director and • LonelyPlanet.com writer best known for his popular novels Sideways and Vertical. YakimaValleyTourism.com • 2013 Annual Report • 5 A I SW I i . . „, _, ' A , a Yakima X 102 1 ` ,s ; '. Valley Sports rt ►► y , _ �� Commission s QR Signature Events �1 Each year, the Yakima Valley Sports �� Commission organizes, promotes and ,, .t: !A/ I S 5 operates four Signature Events: YAKIMA VALLEY YAKIMA VALLEY "Avows SPORTS COMMISSION LUNCHEON Yakima Valley Sports Awards Luncheon The sports event market continues to expand and grow, providing (early -June) economic benefits and exposure for the Yakima Valley. The Yakima Valley Awards were given in 20 high school sports for Sports Commission staff works to enhance existing sporting events and athletes coaches and teams at the 2013 Sports tournaments, attract new events, and promote the Yakima Valley as a Awards Luncheon, attended by almost 600 people. premier sports destination in the Northwest. The economic impact I of sports tourism in the Yakima Valley was an estimated $34.8 million in 2013 (up 5% from 2012) and the number of sporting events held was 447 (up 7% from 2012). 3 -ON -3 TOURNEY DOWNTOWN YAKIMA Yakima Hot Shots Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) 3 -On -3 Basketball Tourney The Yakima Valley hosts several Washington Interscholastic Activities (late- August) Association (WIAA) State High School Championships including A record 497 teams and 1,988 players Volleyball (1B, 2B and 1A), Boys and Girls Basketball (1A and 2A), participated in the 2013 Hot Shots 3 -0n -3 Dance and Drill (all classifications), Baseball (1B, 2B, 1A and 2A), Tourney, held on 40 courts on the streets of Softball (1B, 2B and 2A) and Boys and Girls Tennis (1B, 2B and 1A). downtown Yakima. • ,i *MEMORIAL rRE5ENT5 - • i I"+ , � ` / + ate ��i l 711H I ' 1 JO'LL€"YB� I triliVAL "'1-11Y, fl'".VAL SunDome Volleyball Festival q = ra ? � (early- September) t . 80 varsity and junior varsity volleyball teams _ _' 7 4- ,r came to the Yakima Valley for the 11th annual I 1 + 44 1 kt4 SunDome Volleyball Festival, held at the Yakima -- j Valley SunDome and East Valley High School. «. µ T— ' 9 VA 1 VAL fi ,. i ;t* •' • PLUNDER i ?., . Y t a _ -a* a v , " `` I, . �'. .1, Pirate Plunder Adventure Race .�., 4. s�. .,> , ` 't ., ; '` (early-October) � '; �.� . Started in 2012, the Pirate Plunder f ` Y Adventure Race is the Sports Commission's .. e :. '� " � 4 c. 414* . ' newest event. The 4+ mile, 16- obstacle ra • Y . -• had 1,438 runners in 2013, up 63% from its inaugural year. 6 • 2013 Annual Report • YakimaValleyTourism.com WHAT'S IN STORE FOR 2014 The following is a synopsis of the 2014 Business Plan for Yakima Valley Tourism: TOURISM 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN MEMBER SERVICES Implement goals, objectives and strategies outlined to achieve tourism ■ Survey members as to their marketing and business development needs growth in the Yakima Valley. Contact Yakima Valley Tourism for details. and develop programs to meet or exceed their needs. ■ Provide support and services to members that ensure a high level COMMUNITY AND GOVERNMENT RELATIONS of satisfaction. ■ Increase awareness of tourism's economic value to the general public, ■ Build membership to 365 members and sustain a high level of retention. political leaders and stakeholders. Build awareness of Yakima Valley ■ Update, print and distribute the Yakima Valley Official Visitors GuideTM. Tourism activities. ■ Stage a successful 25th Anniversary of the Holiday Reception & Silent Auction. ■ Expand the role of the organization in the development and preservation of the tourism product in the Yakima Valley. ■ Continue to be active in the Washington Tourism Alliance and the MEDIA & TRADE RELATIONS proposed long -term funding legislation for state tourism marketing. ■ Increase positive media coverage on the Yakima Valley through ■ Generate news releases and story ideas for the media on Yakima Valley public relations efforts. Tourism programs and the tourism industry. ■ Make media sales calls and pitches to publishers, writers and bloggers in key markets. The goal is to generate more than 45 stories with a media value exceeding $500,000. CONVENTION & GROUP SALES ■ Actively promote the region to group tour and international ■ Generate 200 group sales leads and book 34,000 future room nights. markets. Attend leisure and industry travel shows, showcasing key ■ Attract planners to the region through programs that meet their needs attractions and activities. for continuing education. ■ Promote niche products and brand components to further expand ■ Conduct 8 -12 sales trips to the Puget Sound area and throughout the exposure and recognition of the Yakima Valley. Examples include the State. the Spirits and Hops Trail and Yakima Valley Made projects. ■ Increase hosted association board meetings for new and /or pending ■ Utilize the Washington Wine Country entity as a vehicle for pieces of group business. additional media exposure. ■ Host a local appreciation event for local staff members belonging to groups that regularly host state conventions and meetings. ■ Ensure quality customer service for groups. YAKIMA VALLEY SPORTS COMMISSION ■ Provide leadership in the development of existing and new sports facilities. YAKIMA CONVENTION CENTER ■ Build on Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) state ■ Maximize Convention Center use to meet budgeted income high school championships. and expenses. ■ Research and attract new sporting events. ■ Implement the sixth year of the Capital Facilities Plan to ensure the ■ Strengthen relationships with local sports organizations, tournament facility remains competitive, meets ongoing and emergency repairs, plus directors, venues and elected officials. provides for additional enhancements. ■ Further grow and develop the Yakima Valley Sports Commission's ■ Update the 2008 Feasibility Study regarding future expansion options. signature events: Yakima Hot Shots 3 -on -3 Basketball Tourney, SunDome ■ Work closely with Centerplate Catering to build business. Volleyball Festival, Pirate Plunder Adventure Race and the Yakima Valley ■ Convention Center staff will maximize use of the Center to grow earned Sports Awards Luncheon. revenue by 3%, increasing event days by 2.5% and serving 130,000 attendees. VISITOR SERVICES ■ Increase Visitor Information Center (VIC) activity as a local ticket outlet, MARKETING including carrying Yakima Valley Baseball t- shirts and other memorabilia ■ Increase the Yakima Valley's presence in leisure travel through marketing. and selling game tickets. ■ Place advertisements in key regional magazines /newspapers ■ Provide exceptional customer service to a projected 15,000 visitors to representing priority regional markets and focus interests. the VIC, encouraging them to extend their stay. ■ Work with Washington Wine Country (WUC) Alliance to broaden ■ Maintain and secure additional sponsors for the VIC. tourism exposure to the regional wine industry. ■ Improve and expand the retail offerings at the VIC. Promote and carry ■ Plan and implement a strategic winter campaign that includes visitor more Yakima Valley Made, and Made in Washington products along with incentives, packages, giveaways and more. other unique gift items. Continue to market and improve the Yakima ■ Significantly increase Social Media marketing by empowering staff to be Valley gift baskets offered. curators and content generators for various social media platforms. ■ Create and implement a plan to hold business after -hours and other events at the VIC. YakimaValleyTourism.com • 2013 Annual Report • 7 __.) YAKIMA VALLEY Yakima Valley Tourism 10 North 8th Street • Yakima, WA 98901 Phone: 509.575.3010 • Fax: 509.575.6252 • Toll Free: 800.221.0751 YakimaValleyTourism.com • • YAKIMA VALLEY TOURISM STAFF: BOARD OF DIRECTORS: • • Adminstrative Yakima Valley Sports Commission • Maureen Adkison Kathleen Goyette Chris Pauling • John Cooper Rich Austin Yakima City Council Ski White Pass Prudential Almon Realty President & CEO Director of Sports • • John Baule Sean Hawkins Steve Pinza Wendi Bixler Mike Carey ; Yakima Valley Museum City of Yakima Second Street Grill Controller & HR Manager Senior Sports Sales Manager • • Ryan Beckett Jill Johnson Matt Rawn Stephanie Gangle Nicol Sloon • RE /MAX Traditions Johnson Orchards Two Mountain Winery Office Manager c,nnrtc SeIPC Mananar • • Loren Belton Greg Luring Wanda Riel Laura Rodriguez Leisure & Internet Marketing • City of Toppenish McDonald's of Yakima Holiday Inn Downtown Receptionist Kirsten Danielson • • Jennifer Bliesner Elizabeth McGree Nina Ummel Yakima Convention Center Director of Marketin Terril, Lewis, &Wilke Insurance JEM Development Ummelina Day Spa Connie Upton Daniel Writer • • Pepper Fewel Sharon Miracle General Manage Graphics & Web Developer . Cherry Wonrl B &B Tree Top Store &Visitors Center Lisa Krous Visitor Services • • Assistant General Manager Pam Lakman Ryon Remmerden Visitor Information Center Manage. EX - OFFICIO: Convention Center Sales Manager Diane Smestad • Verlynn Best Humberto Rodriguez Sam Dobbs Travel Consultant • Greater Yakima ChamoerorLcenrnerce Prosser Chamber of Commerce D ^ Ann Laberge • • Rand Elliott Gene Rostvold Convention & Group Sales Travel Consultant : Yakima County Commissioners Yakima Valley Sports Commission Brynn Kloster Tourism Development • Dave McFadden John Tierney Director of Convention & Group Sales Katie Heaverlo • New Vision City of Selah fl - t -, r of Media & Trade Relations Diane Reim • Shirley Puryear Roger Wentz Senior Safes Manager Member Services • Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail City of Union Gap Lorena Lopez Michelle Hopkins ; C Sales Manager Director of Member Services • • • Yakima Valley Tourism 10 North 8t Street Yakima, WA 98901 T: 509 - 575 -3010 YA K I M A F: 509 - 575 -6252 VALLEY 800- 221-0751 www.yakimavalleytourism.com Annual Report City of Yakima In addition to the items in the 2013 Annual Report, below are activities specific to Yakima. Yakima Valley Tourism attended various industry and consumer trade shows in 2013 to market the region and local attractions including: • Go West Summit — domestic and international tour operators • ITB- Berlin Convention • Two Nation Vacation Portland & Seattle Shows • WTA Tourism Summit • USTA Pow Wow — international travel buyers • Wine Tourism Conference • Society of American Travel Writers Western Chapter Conference • Taste Washington Public Relations Campaign — presented the following to travel and lifestyle media: • Yakima Convention Center • Yakima Hotel Updates • Yakima Events • Yakima Restaurants • Yakima Wineries • Downtown Yakima • Yakima Historic District Regional Marketing: • Full -page destination advertisements were placed in key regional magazines: Washington Tasting Room, NW Travel, Sunset, SIP Northwest, and Seattle Met. • We maintained a large presence with state - focused guides: WA Wine Commission Wine Tour Guide, WA State Travel Planner (State Tourism Visitor's Guide) and Scenic WA. • Worked with the newly acquired Washington Wine Country (WWC) Alliance to broaden tourism exposure to the regional wine industry. Created and promoted WWC website, Taste & Tote campaign, Facebook and Twitter accounts. • Dedicated "Downtown Yakima" location for events, portal page on VisitYakima.com, tab on Facebook. • Repeated 2012's "Find Spring" radio campaign in the Seattle market March through May. Supported radio with Find Spring website including Spring events, attractions, lodging packages and a getaway giveaway. • Increased social media interactions by 50% through strategic content posts, partner content shares, and targeted advertising. • Grew the www.YakimaValleyTourism.com event calendar to rank #1 in the community on Google search. Traffic to the events section of our website grew 26 %. • Continued the success of season or topic- focused micro websites by adding SpiritsandHopsTrail.com and YakimaValleyMade.com to the existing 8 other sites created in previous years. • Purchased all city landing pages on Yelp.com for the Yakima Valley and stocked them with branded images, content, videos and advertisements. • Increased content to our mobile websites resulting in a 35% increase in mobile traffic. • Developed $40,000 winter campaign including giveaway with White Pass and world class skier Andy Mahre, radio campaign in the Seattle Market, print advertising in Outdoors NW, Snowlander, Sunset, NW Travel, Seattle Met and USA Today travel guide. Increased visitors to website by 26% November — January. Membership: • Yakima Valley Official Visitors Guide TM : o Yakima listing includes address, phone numbers, website or email address. o 100,000 copies distributed. o Multiple category listing. • Visitor Information Center: o Yakima brochures and event information are displayed. o Additional sponsorship /partnership opportunities exist. o Numerous referrals to Yakima events. • Yakima Valley Tourism Website: o YakimaValleyTourism.com features all active member listings and links plus maps, events and information about Yakima Valley Tourism. o Website links. • Priority Referrals: o Members like Yakima receive priority referrals based on need of customers. • Directory of Conventions & Sporting Events: o The Directory of Conventions & Sporting Events lists future meetings, conventions, sporting events and trade shows and is only available to members of Yakima Valley Tourism. • Networking Opportunities: o Yakima Valley Tourism hosts two large events, the Annual Meeting and Holiday Reception where members can network with other member businesses. We also offer member educational seminars. • Tourism E- Newsletters: o These keep members current and informed on the tourism industry, Yakima Valley Tourism events and staff updates. Sports: Through December 2013, the Yakima Valley Sports Commission helped secure the following future events: • 2014 WASA Fall Council Convention • 2014 16U A WASA State Girls' Fastpitch Championships • 2014 16U B WASA State Girls' Fastpitch Championships • 2014 18U A WASA State Girls' Fastpitch Championships • 2014 18U B WASA State Girls' Fastpitch Championships • 2014 Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) 1A and 2A Basketball Championships • 2014 WIAA Dance and Drill Championships • 2014 WIAA 1 B, 2B and 2A Softball Championships • 2014 WIAA 1A and 2A Baseball Championships • 2014 WIAA 1B, 2B and 1A Tennis Championships • 2014 WIAA 1 B, 2B and 1A State Volleyball Championships Some of the events the Yakima Valley Sports Commission is currently working to secure include: • NWAACC Women's Fastpitch Spring Crossover Tournament 2014 -15 school year and beyond • NWAACC Women's Fastpitch Championships 2014 -15 school year and beyond • WIAA 1A and 2A Basketball Championships 2014 -15 school year and beyond • WIAA Dance & Drill Championships 2014 -15 school year and beyond • WIAA 1B, 2B and 2A Softball Championships 2014 -15 school year and beyond • WIAA 1A and 2A Baseball Championships 2014 -15 school year and beyond • WIAA 1B, 2B and 1A Volleyball Championships 2015 -16 school year and beyond • WIAA 1B, 2B and 1A Tennis Championships 2016 -17 school year and beyond The 2014 Hot Shots 3 -On -3 Basketball Tournament attracted a record -497 teams the weekend prior to Labor Day. The marketing efforts for Hot Shots, one of the Sports Commission's four Signature Events, have been expanded to bring more out -of -town visitors to the Yakima Valley. The 2014 Tourney is set for August 23 -24 and the Sports Commission's Hot Shots Organizing Committee has already started working on the event. Hot Shots will again be heavily promoting the event to teams outside of the Yakima Valley. The 12 Annual SunDome Volleyball Tournament, another of the Yakima Valley Sports Commission's Signature Events, was reformatted several years ago to increase the level of play and the number of out -of -town teams. In 2012, a 16 -team, one -day Junior Varsity tournament was added at East Valley High School, boosting the field to a maximum of 80 teams. The 2014 SDVF will be held September 12 -13. In 2012, the Sports Commission organized the Pirate Plunder Adventure Race. The second annual Pirate Plunder in 2013 saw 1,438 competitors participate in the 4.15 -mile, 16- obstacle race -up 63% from the inaugural event. The Pirate Plunder is held at Pirate's Landing, located adjacent to the Yakima Wastewater Treatment Plant. The 2014 Pirate Plunder will be held on October 4. Wildlife: Shoreline Whale Watching r) ► r _ .r R ' - . f j F Sc tacuiar -1100004 .01 M o nt- na :ow Ado Glacier National Park Yakima Wine Tasting Rooms l2 GreenGetaways `•' Adventure: Juneau Alaska cart t, )AVTR!PPIIHG, .w CULTIVATE R a.t I TASTE, 58 I I POUR SPREE p. az NOIYaTDP . i . ■ is i -r--- --- 1 4 4 i 1 . ■ • . I 11 '• a s r.r'� GI ��J ti .f Y _ - ilieLi _ — ii i ..p si AP Y AKIMA TASTING ROO • An Eclectic Array of Wines With mom than 16,000 vineyard showed me their best -kept si. :t— from a single vineyard, this r'ieiing is acres awl m We than fit) Vitirvarid.4. thr cozy downstairs seller marry nut lug be rr ssstd. the Yakima Valley Arceltirtkkn ii Decorated with local artis ts' paintings After sarr 7line some of the ante'; Washtrrtan's nicest weie- growirg burg on rustic' rods - embedded walls bat reds and why es. it trite tO rellioei. W i t f r r id flurry wineries to tempt and soft leather chairs arrived In s nole sparklirg wines atTreveri your palate. woe tasting in me valley i intimate alcoves to sir k inito. the cellar collars' - 5p2rklP Tasting Roorr' or 2nd forrridehle proiect. so a Ruud plat.;e to is d &rtd11 Millie 14 sit, sip and talk. Avenue hers. German vintner Juergen sample a broad variety of the region's Or F'rday yet ngs the canter ream latch, MIN degrees in wlrernaking thirty different typos of wines Is in feat. nes live music. and spaall,rig wineimakir•tg, irerodutes . downtown l na` s four tifsb roomS, Una ii the native aloud for the spirit Wa6h stgtor in !wars to ar eclectic Star, at 6 laert Cellars ar North or Are withi 1 a mountain, any` +Caria array of buttilr. Front ::rreret, 'crated orl a tumRr 91 Wirtry rearmed 'Ise* after tht€ Wet, Hering trained with a wedding Yakinr * hitttorit dr«iinrt. Nate and Sean refarrngto the vokanic Seirt i•lt•pnKe wins producer n r-ir;r, Gvrrnany, Gilbert maned Gilbert Cellars in aua on "trips in the stoma Vatley, uxatrd Grieb has an irritrec obey wdlgrrr for and green harvest and hand prune their : in a tilstottc dcwntarwin building. the handcrafting spare Pig wines Anil the able vireryarr s on the Wahl Stolle, . `(Md Yakima" rum- cif - the- tantury Karla wines are very good Grieh's Syresh !Slut Horstheaven H its, and Ahtar m Valley Winery Tastrg Root" on 2rtd Street grid E..1ra -erut Char Ionnay have beers to produce powerfully olaaored, yet orliars up some superbtiemprenillas servred by Ii 5.5ecretary of 5ta1P Hilary delira -ply halrired wines such as synth and Kaiid's tlttrgsh p b rod, the Clark Star Clinton ai d plonratk r+etept}i5' 5 MOO and chardpinay. Isyrah.rnoorredire d ri d grenactre). Whits House. Gilbert Celia Cs rand rry upcta rs But tlarsa s besisel er is the Katie Grieb .Se"a 114 Afirthpdc tasting roams is pleeeart enough. but Mae Riesling; frith *iirr.s of green apple Chanipermiste— rnean:„ig ter tarnwnts tasting room *nari ger Laura Rankin and lemon arid lime citrus tweeters to. nom in bottles. 35 tradit i ctal y Northwest Tr:vei —J une 2013 —Page 3 FOCUS n, w W11(TIRtP'PIN6 p. rr CULTIVATE tt TASTE p. fie POUR SPREE e 8 I 140,45T OP p. a}ti sparldiing wine (*titans Oink their To ,ample a good variety of the fruity wines as a hex. For example_ the Yakima V.:I ley's wig. downtown Grape Etirc+w concoction ham a ri n of Yakima s i great pi are to start. turbine& strew orilh volt to grape jvkq ta4ri Last rig roan offers something and Treveri Edtsrs' Willer- Thurgau different and just mieht inspire a drive tf you like a coal mint taster on a (remember to bring a designated drivel trot summer day, try the Titvijitc, to the 1'`+kir 1+If1Ity Wires Trail in the with fresh lime and Fresh mint leaves countryside soul at tor" drowned in Treveri rieslir Want something a i th . e Imre tart? $rp Ya]krna's Tasting Rooms the 5rtuttgart with elderberry tyrvp, Gilbert Callan, 5 P1. Front St., Suits t cranberry bitters, and Treieri piflOtri5. mat So'9-ze3 -9c19. T4ertcefirrry {r r Hilaire Calkers offer ioral (aria 4►inery. to S. 2nd St.: W9 - 453 - varietal wines. with gunmetal Ilahels lira, )rnncu r). and tastes at the Jackson Farm Testing Treteri Cellars, z2i S. 2nd Ave.: 5rO9- e Ream on Wad Visions&Anarrus_ }fit! GtMG,d�re *,:eitc~i.c�r* !Nathan* only lin casts each year, Tha Winos of Mt. Hilaire Cellars. St. Hilaire Celitirs is known For its voto Yakima Aug., 077; sa9--453 -5937, dnna m iFa-npa -ir, France. But Trtveri Moneywu.od 1 nth Wine are dessert t,eurrarrsanrlura'.raxit c4 101 4l16 effort anothr- wag ua v Mac, plus mare tradltIcnal rehear 'ii , tasting experteme —a linet,p or nine Linfandel and merlat. NEW! Downtown Yakima Summer Nights Concerts « Yakima Va... http : / /www.visityakima.com /newsite /yakima - valley - blog / ?p =6177 tom- isI Ti, l YAKIMA . - I VALLEY ir■ `'� F ' . ) Rfir). ' Coorg Ilk w NEW! Downtown Yakima Summer Nights Concerts The City of Yakima, Townsquare Media, and Legends Casino have joined forces to create Downtown Summer Nights, a new Thursday evening concert series that will feature a diverse mix of musical styles ranging from blues to rock, salsa to country. Sponsored by Legends Casino and produced by the City and Townsquare, the free and family - friendly Downtown Summer Nights series will kick off its 11 show run on June 13 with Nashville -based Too Slim and the Taildraggers, a blues/rock group ' tp, that has built an international following since it was founded in Spokane in 1986. Brewers Grade will bring its brand of •ar' Northwest country music to the Downtown Summer Nights stage on June 20 Indie rock group The Village Musicians, made ti"Y. up of three brothers and a best friend, will headline the show on June 27 • r■ After taking a break for the July 4 holiday, Downtown Summer Nights will return on July 11 with Fino, a Tri- Cities band r "e'a , whose rich repertoire includes salsa, funk, Tejano, country, classic rock, and contemporary. With its unique blend of rock and folk, Yakima and Northwest favorite Not Amy will be the featured act on July 18 and will be followed on July 25 by up -and- coming country singer Kate Turner. The Village Musicians August will start with 3 Date, a true Rock 'n' Roll band from the Tri- Cities area, taking the Downtown Summer Nights stage on August 1st. Country group Chase will be next up on August 8 The unique sounds of Australian -born Blake Noble, a percussive guitarist I who also plays the didgeridoo, will be on display during the August 15 show. While producers are still working to fill the August 22 slot, they have lined up Seattle -based Eclectic Approach, which has appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and is ( J - ' currently on a U.S. tour, to close out the series on August 29 r• Downtown Summer Nights events will start at 5:00 pm and will take place on 4 Street behind the Capitol Theatre. "In addition to the great music, there will also be craft vendors, kids activities, food booths run by local restaurants, and a beer and wine garden," said Yakima Economic Development 4 Brewers Grade , Sean Hawkins. "It's going to be a lot of fun. There will be something for everyone," / said Hawkins. 'Downtown Summer Nights is one more piece of the puzzle that we're putting r in place to grow Downtown Yakima's reputation as an arts and entertainment destination." .k- r r The Downtown Summer Nights website - www.downtownsummerniqhts.com - includes a complete list of musical performers, information about how vendors can sign up for booth space, and other news about the series. Economic Blake Noble Development Manager Sean Hawkins can also be contacted by phone (575 -6274) or by e-mail (sean.hawkins @yakimawa.gov) by anyone wanting to learn more about the Downtown Summer Nights concert series. SHARE O © • This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 1st, 2013 at 6:54 pm and is filed under Outdoors, Uncategorized, Yakima Tourism, Yakima Valley Events. You can follow any responses to this entry through the rOSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed Yakima Valley Tourism is an Equal Opportunity Employer © Yakima Valley Tourism. All Rights Reserved. 1 of 1 2/28/2014 3:40 PM Celebrate National Trails Day — Enjoy Trails through Yakima « Y... http: / /www.visityakima.com /newsite /yakima - valley - blog / ?p =6267 ; ice r' �,, E / • YAKIMA �_ � � • VALLEY .� '�C'� Celebrate National Trails Day - Enjoy Trails through Yakima Celebrate June 1, the American Hiking Society's National Trails Day , the country's largest celebration of trails. Close into the city of Yakima there are miles of trails. Listed below with links to more information are easy trails, some are adjacent to city parks and urban nature, others are walks through vineyards near wineries, through canyons and natural areas. June 1 is also the 2013 Gap2Gap Relay race on the Yakima Greenway, a very popular annual event. The Yakima Greenway: Walk the Yakima Greenway, a 10 mile paved pathway that follows the Yakima River as it runs north and south and the Naches River which runs east and west. The Yakima Arboretum is located along the pathway as well as an off leash dog park. Directions for walking to Yakima Greenway from Yakima and Union Gap hotels here. William 0. Douglas Trail Segments: The first dedicated segment of the William 0 Douglas Heritage Trail begins at Justice Douglas' High School alma mater, located on South 6th Avenue. This is an urban hike along about 2 miles of designated paths and city streets. Follow the route he walked as a young boy to overcome his physical weakness. The destination for this hike is the top of Selah Ridge, reached after crossing the historic railroad bridge over the Naches River. There are currently 6 segments of smaller hikes to this trail. Cowiche Canyon Trail: The Cowiche Canyon is a popular hike. This is an old railroad bed which is now a gravel trail with wooden trestle bridges over a small creek. The trail is 3.5 miles one way with interesting rock formations. ? » Cowiche Canyon to Weikel to Rocky Top: Leaves the Cowiche Canyon Trail and climbs up the hillside. Directions t Cowiche Canyon Winery Trail: Near bridge #8 of the Cowiche Canyon Trail there is a junction with the Winery Trail, which climbs the north hillside to the Tasting Room of Yakima & _ the Wilridge Vineyard and the Naches Heights Tasting Room. Parking is allowed at the wineries, if you would rather start the hike on the Winery Trail down to the Cowiche Canyon Trail. Naches Trail: The Naches Trail starts in the city of Naches, 10 miles to the west of the city of Yakima. Currently this trail is paved for a few miles and when completed will provide a paved path connecting Naches and Yakima via the Yakima Greenway. » Powerhouse Canal Pathway An easy winding pathway of about 4 miles round trip which starts at 40th Avenue at Chesterly Park and Powerhouse Road. Expect views of Chesterly Park, lots of back yards, and Robertson School playground. Pathway crosses several Yakima streets to end at McGuinness Park The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575 -3010. .,? SHRRE SHARE © © 0 0 Tags: Cowiche Canyon, Hiking near wineries, Naches Heights Winery , National Trails Day, Powerhouse Canal Path, The tasting Room, Wilridge Vineyard, winery hikes, Yakima Greenway, Yakima Hiking, Yakima Parks, Yakima trails This entry was posted on Monday, May 27th, 2013 at 2:05 pm and is filed under Uncategorized You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed 1 of 2 2/28/2014 3:41 PM The WAY to go Wine Tasting - Yakima Wineries! « Yakima Vall... http: / /www.visityakima.com /newsite /yakima- valley - blog / ?p =5367 � It 'ur , � 'fi 1 YAKiMA ...0,40.>, _ 1 Apikili �� VALLEY - . / � � � I ► 1 R7:9 4 . . � , The WAY to go Wine Tasting — Yakima Wineries! Did you know that within a 10 minute driving radius of downtown Yakima there are 8 wineries to visit. These wineries are part of the Wire Association of Yakima (WAY). They offer monthly special events which include live music, wine and food pairing. `�^�� Looking forward to Spring Barrel Weekend? Don't forget to visit the downtown wineries, whether you start your `` t tasting at these wineries or end up there to enjoy the evening entertainment, this is the way to go. Four of these � f wineries are within walking distance of each other and downtown Yakima hotels and restaurants. . . T * O K Gilbert Cellars in the Historic District offers fresh seasonal •4 j I • i ngredients perfectly paired with their award winning wines. On most weekends in their "underground" you can find live music. The Gilbert d • Y � \ Family has a 100 year history in the Yakima Valley as orchardists .0( �/ . ihz, - ' -- -- -- t and farmers. The vineyards are located west of downtown Yakima. In v O the summer the Gilbert family opens their wine cave to exclusive • it • • - an gatherings and live music. This is a great venue to taste wine, listen to live music and watch the P sunset. r 1 Lookout Point and Antolin Cellars have joined together in a tasting room one block north of i llP Yakima Avenue on 2 Street. Antolin I r,, i Cellars wines are produced from their - grapes grown in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA. - ` Their 2010 Vognier is listed at #47 in Paul Gregutt's Seattle Times Top 100 NW Wines for 2012. s 1 (i' Lookout Point Winery specializes in Malbec and both the 2008 and 2009 were evaluated as 90Pts by k - Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast respectively. The '08 Malbec was described as, "Lively, - • ' - distinctive and juicy, with red plum, blackberry, stony mineral and spice flavors that come together ii easily on the expressive finish." The winery offers a superb menu Prepared by the winemaker's wife, - it the Culinary Arts instructor at Yakima Valley Technical Skills Center in Yakima. _ - ••*: Kana Winery is located on 2 Street - -- µ ° •, South of Yakima Avenue in the historic 4 ) • I 0.F. , Larson Building. Kana is a native word for i k the spirit or the fire within a mountain, in - �. r� reference to the perceived supernatural power of volcanic activity. In the Yakima Valley, this volcanic 7 - ' ► ‘ activity leads to the making of excellent terrior for fine wines. On most Fridays you will find the winery owner and friends playing music. On first Fridays there will be a band and a special food menu. For i Jazz lovers, the 2 Saturday of the month there will be live Jazz with Rondi Marsh and the Jazz w Crush. • ° Treveri Cellars production facility is outside of Yakima but within 10 minutes' drive, situated on a hill with a wonderful view of Mt. Adams. This is the place to go for sparkling wines. Enjoy the wonderful selection of 8 sparkling wines, from their Extra Brut to Sparking Rose', Riesling, Gewiirztraminer and more. Recent accolades include 90+ point scores from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. Be sure to check their website for special weekend events with live music and small bites Don't n ss this perfect setting for a summer refresher. Naches Heights Vineyard and The Tasting Room at Wilridge Winery are a 10 minute drive from w, • downtown Yakima, where you will be surrounded by the vineyards. Wilridge Winery is located in a 100 year old farmhouse with a welcoming front porch and deck area. Enjoy the wines and special summer _ music and outdoor movies. 4 r MIMI The Naches Heights Vineyard is a short stroll away. Expect a unique menu paired with their wines — _—,, and and ever changing lineup of live music on weekends. Both wineries have a large grassy area for children to romp. Naches Heights has beautifully landscape grounds and you will be able to stay in a well- appointed yurt this summer. The tasting room is features a fireplace, comfortable leather seating ?`t " Vl, - and tables for inside dining and wine tasting. r " Southard Winery, located north of Yakima in Selah,WA is a family owned and operated estate vineyards and winery. They produce Riesling as well as Roussanne, Syrah and Red Blends. Thank you to the members of the Winery Association of Yakima (WAY) for supporting the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center as a Diamond Sponsor. The Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center: Celebrating 10 years of serving travelers to the Yakima Valley in 2013. 1 of 2 2/28/2014 3:41 PM The WAY to go Wine Tasting — Yakima Wineries! « Yakima Vall... http: / /www.visityakima.com /newsite /yakima - valley- blog/ ?p =5367 The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here. or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575 -3010. 0 SHARE SHARE D © Tags: Antolin Cellars, Downtown Yakima Wineries, Gilbert Cellars, Kana Winery, Lookout Point Winery, Naches Heights Winery, Southard Winery, The Tasting Room At Wilridge Winery, Treveri Cellars, WAY, Winery Association of Yakima This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 19th, 2013 at 3:43 am and is filed under Accommodations , Restaurants, travel yakima , Washington Wine Country, Wineries, wines You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed. Yakima Valley Tourism is an Equal Opportunity Employer © Yakima Valley Tourism. All Rights Reserved. 2 of 2 2/28/2014 3:41 PM Taste the Fun! Special Deals at Central WA State Fair! « Yakim... http: / /www.visityakima.com /newsite /yakima- valley - blog / ?p =6957 YAKIMA i. VALLEY /9,6 Taste the Fun! Special Deals at Central WA State Fair! Taste the Fun at the Central WA State Fair and pay less! Great admission deals at the Central Washington State Fair, September 20- 29, 2013. This year everyone can afford to attend; Friday is KIMA TV Day and the 1st day of the Fair, enter before 3 p.m. for only $4. Monday is Franz Bread Day Bring EMPTY Franz Bread sack with a sticker; pay $28 at the gate and ,y receive admission and unlimited carnival rides. .. > 1.. yttitirr Tuesday is SOLARITY KIDS DAY. Starting at 3:00 p.m, I j I ' Youth 12 & younger pay $15 which includes; gate admission and a wristband for unlimited carnival rides. No coupon required. $25 for carnival , f 'f�l _ wristband — 1:00 PM to 10:00 p.m. This is also KIMA TV & LIVING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Military Appreciation and Senior Appreciation Day. Active Military, Veterans & Seniors (65 & over) pay $7.00 Gate admission all day. - Wednesday is PEPSI DAY — $5 until 5 p.m. All fair patrons pay $5 gale admission until 5 p.m. — ages 5 and under ' always free $25 for carnival wristband — 1 PM to 10 PM Thursday is "Be A Kid Again Day" with $8 gate admission for ALL ages! .r* r. Sunday, the last day of The Fair is YAKIMA VALLEY FARM WORKERS CLINIC "FAMILY DAY" Pay $25 & receive f t admission for a family of five. Kids 5 & under free — no coupon required. With all these great deals, you can spend your savings /, on Deep Fried Twinkies!...Or Ice cream on a stick!... Or may' lamb burgers...or elephant ears... or Young Life BBQ beef burgers or.... Click here for a complete daily fair schedule of activities. The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive additional information regarding membership, Click here. or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575 -3010. SHARE SHARE O Tags: Central Washington State Fair, Fair in Yakima, State Fair This entry was posted on Monday, September 16th, 2013 at 2:47 am and is filed under Central Washington Agriculture Museum, Culinary, Cultural Celebrations, Recreation, Uncategorized, Washington Wine Country, Yakima Valley Events. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed Yakima Valley Tourism is an Equal Opportunity Employer © Yakima Valley Tourism. All Rights Reserved. 1 of 1 2/28/2014 3:42 PM