OAKHURST – The Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau souvenir store is a popular stop for thousands of visitors every year on their way to or from Yosemite and the southern gateway region of Madera County. It serves as a first, or last, chance to grab that perfect gift for friends and family. As an added bonus, items in the store are now made in the USA.
“I felt it was important that we make the switch. As millions of Americans are still struggling to find work, this small gesture may help a company keep someone employed, or may even help them to hire someone else,” said Visitors Bureau CEO Dan Cunning.
Items include Yosemite photos printed on various media, T-shirts, stuffed animals representing regional wildlife, books, postcards, local fruits and nuts and more. Each of the items was made in America.
“We went out specifically looking to purchase items that were made domestically. Some of the items may cost a dollar or two more, but it’s worth it as our economy still recovers,” said Visitors Center manager Judi Hussain.
So far the change has resulted in a lot of positive feedback.
“People have been thankful for the switch, both Americans and foreign visitors,” said Hussain.
“Americans appreciate our effort to keep things domestic while some foreign visitors like the fact that they’re taking a truly American souvenir back home with them,” she said.
The Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau promotes Madera County and the southern gateway region of Yosemite. The area includes the cities of Chowchilla and Madera, towns of Ahwahnee, Bass Lake, Coarsegold, Fish Camp, Madera Ranchos, North Fork, Oakhurst, O’Neals and Raymond, as well as Yosemite National Park.
The visitor center is located at 40637 Highway 41, Oakhurst, CA, 93644.
