“RED’S, WHITE’S AND BLUES CELEBRATION”
May 26th from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Glasses of RED Wine $5 WHITE Wine Margarita’s $5

Free Out-Door Concert of BLUES by Beach Cuvee This is a Family Friendly event, so bring your beach chairs or blanket, enjoy some wine (bottles available for purchase too!) food and fun!  We have plenty of picnic areas nestled in the midst of a lush citrus grove on our 3 ½ acre grounds!

The post Escondido Wine and Culinary Campus Hosts Benefit For Wounded Warrior Project appeared first on Visit Escondido™.

“As local winemakers refine viticultural practice and hone vinification technique,
the local wine industry blossoms.”

Learn more about our local area wineries at their websites and customize your experience with a wine tour!

• Altipiano Vineyard and Winery
• Belle Marie Winery
• Bernardo Winery
• Cordiano Winery
• Deer Park Winery & Auto Museum
• Hidden Valley Enoteca
• Orfila Vineyards and Winery
• Triple B Ranches
• Vesper Vineyeards

Customize your Wine Tour experience! Visit beautiful vineyards and award-winning wineries right in the Escondido area. Romantic adventures, birthdays, anniversaries, corporate groups or just catching up with friends… call 760-789-7252 for more information.

The post Escondido Wine Country Blossoms as a Destination appeared first on Visit Escondido™.

Thousands from across the region endured near-record heat Sunday in Escondido and surrounding North County communities to cheer on the world’s top cyclists in America’s version of the Tour de France.

Despite temperatures in the high 90s, avid cycling fans and newcomers to the sport jammed the sidewalks of downtown Escondido’s Grand Avenue Sunday for the Amgen Tour of California.

The crowds swarmed the blocks of downtown near Grand Avenue and Broadway, which served as the starting line just after 11 a.m. and the finish line just before 4 p.m.

In between, the cyclists drew smaller crowds along a 103-mile route, including the San Pasqual Valley, Main Street in Ramona, Palomar Mountain, parts of Julian and Cole Grade Road in Valley Center.

Downtown Escondido was filled with loud, cheering and people shaking cowbells during the start and finish, and crowds milled about in between.

But the turnout appeared significantly smaller than the last time Escondido hosted the race in 2009. Food courts, festivals and some restaurants near the finish line were sparsely populated much of the day, and many blamed the heat.

Cynthia Palmer of the National Weather Service in Rancho Bernardo said temperatures as high as 97 were recorded in Escondido Sunday. The city’s record temperature for May 12 is 98 in 1927, she said.

“I think the heat might be taking a toll,” Vinnie Griffin of downtown’s Vinz Wine Bar said during the race.

But others downplayed the effect.

“The riders got an especially warm welcome today in Escondido,” joked fan Kerry Catori, who was shielding herself from the sun with a cloth parasol. “But I think the people that wanted to be here came anyway.”

Catori, who lives less than a mile from the finish line in Old Escondido, said she was impressed by the size and scope of the race.

It brought many unfamiliar sights to Escondido: an army of TV trucks, large hospitality tents throughout downtown, giant video screens on nearly every downtown corner and dozens of reporters and photographers from overseas.

The race was broadcast live in 216 countries and across the United States on the NBC Sports Network.

“I’m excited this has come to our town,” Catori said. “I’m so proud of my city.”

Escondido officials, who spent $500,000 to host the race, say they hope it boosts the city’s image and helps spur local economic development.

After Escondido, the eight-day race moves to Murrieta, Palmdale, Santa Clarita, Santa Barbara, San Jose, Livermore and the final stage, a race from San Francisco to the finish line in Santa Rosa next Sunday.

Dave McStay of Temecula brought his family to Escondido and said he plans to spend Monday in Murrieta, where temperatures are expected to be even higher.

“This is exciting, because the crowds are great, and they have a lot of the top riders,” he said.

READ FULL ARTICLE: U-T SAN DIEGO ONLINE…

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June brings the promise of summer fun at Harrah’s Rincon Casino and Resort. This month visit Harrah’s Rincon to enjoy the unparalleled gaming excitement, a luxury hotel, seven great restaurants, a well-appointed retail shop with unique gift items, and a full-service spa, all conveniently located just 20 minutes northeast of Escondido. During June, Harrah’s Rincon is offering live entertainment including Karaoke Wednesdays, and Noches Latina Thursdays, terrific beverage specials, and exciting promotions and tournaments that you won’t find anywhere else!

PROMOTIONS AND EVENTS

Year of the Millionaire Promotion – Now-December 31 
Do you want to be a millionaire? Harrah’s Rincon is giving you your chance during the exciting Year of the Millionaire Promotion. Throughout 2013, Harrah’s Rincon will be giving away $100,000 in cash and Free Play each month and at 1 a.m. on January 1, 2014, one guest will win $1 million CASH! Year of the Millionaire is open to all Total Rewards Cardholders and entry is easy – just use your Total Rewards card when you play your favorite games at Harrah’s Rincon. For every Tier Credit you earn, you will receive one entry into both the monthly and the year-end drawings. The earning period is now through 11:59 p.m. on December 31 (New Year’s Eve).  Don’t have a Total Rewards card? Then this is the time to get one – it’s easy, free and your ticket to earning great rewards at Harrah’s Rincon. Plus you will receive 500 entries into your first eligible monthly Year of the Millionaire drawing and 1,000 entries into the year-end $1 Million drawing!

Monthly drawings are held the last Saturday of the month (in June that will be June 29) and the earning period for these drawings ends at 10:30 p.m. on the drawing date. Guests will need to activate monthly entries at one of the Promotional Kiosks or the Promotions Center from 6 a.m.-10:30 p.m. on June 29. Five winners will be chosen hourly from 1-10 p.m. to receive $1,000 in Free Play – these prizes must be claimed by 11:59 p.m. Then at 11 p.m. one lucky player will be selected to win $50,000 CASH! The winner must claim the prize within 10 minutes or another winner will be selected.

Play and Chews Promotion – June 1-30
How can you go wrong with a promotion that lets you play and eat?! Guests can earn a complimentary buffet or $20 food voucher valid at Fiore, the Café, the Buffet, Pink’s, or Fortunes by simply earning 50 Tier Credits using their Total Rewards Card while playing. The earning period is from 6am-5:59am and must be used within a 24-hour period from the time it is issued.

$10,000 Blackjack Tournament – June 4 and 18
 If blackjack is your game, you should check out the $10,000 Blackjack Tournament. Registration begins at 3 p.m. with tournament play starting at 3:20 p.m. in Pit 5 and lasting until approximately 9:30 p.m. Entry is free to Platinum, Diamond and Seven Star cardholders ($20 entry fee for Gold cardholders). The top 24 scorers from the preliminary round will advance to the secondary round with one wild card winner. The First Place prize is $5,000 in live chips.

Crack the Code – June 5, 12, 19, and 26
One of Harrah’s Rincon’s most popular promotions, Crack the Code, is back! This is super-easy – simply swipe your card at the Promotions Center between 1-10pm each promotional day for a chance to crack your secret code to win cash or free play.

Mystery Reward Credit Multiplier – June 6, 13, 20, and 27
 If you love getting extra credit for your play, this promotion’s for you. Depending on your tier level, you are guaranteed to earn anywhere from 2x to 9x the number of reward credits for your play. But you may earn even more – possibly up 50x the number of reward credits for your play. See the Total Rewards Center for details.

June Gift Giveaway – June 7 and June 9
Our Gift of the Month for June is a popcorn maker. To receive your gift, all you have to do is earn 150 tier credits. You can pick up your gift at the Promotions Center from 1-10 p.m. on either promotional day.  One gift per guest and gifts are available while supplies last.

$10,000 Slot Tournament – June 11 and June 25
Here’s a tournament for slot players. Registration starts at 3 p.m. for Diamond and Seven Star cardholders and 4 p.m. for Platinum and Gold cardholders (registration ends at 7 p.m.). Entry is free for Seven Stars, Diamond and Platinum cardholders ($20 entry fee for Gold cardholders). Tournament play begins at 4 p.m. in the Tournament Zone. Winners will be announced one hour after the final session has ended and the First Place prize is $750 in Slot Play. Prizes must be claimed by June 18 and July 2 respectively.

June Cash Giveaway – June 15-16
Here’s your chance to earn extra cash while you play your favorite slot or table games. From 6 a.m. June 15 until 9:30 p.m. on June 16 players can earn $10 in cash for every 200 Tier Credits received up to a maximum of $7,500 during the promotion. You can pick up your cash from 1-10 p.m. both days at the Promotions Center.

ENTERTAINMENT

Karaoke Wednesdays at Harrah’s Rincon
Don’t just sit at home and watch those talent contest TV shows – come on out to Harrah’s Rincon and check out Karaoke Wednesdays at Harrah’s Rincon. Every Wednesday night from 8 p.m.-midnight in the Oasis Lounge, guests can take the mike and thrill the audience with their hidden talent.

Noches Latinas in the Oasis Lounge Thursdays
Wednesday is Latin night in the Oasis Lounge. Join us as lively tunes are spun by our local DJ and you can enjoy $3.50 Corona and Corona Light beers. It’s the best way we know to get over the midweek “hump” day!

Bringing Down the House Comedy Night – Thursday, June 27
Here’s your chance to check out local and up-and-coming comedy talent. The fun gets underway at

9 p.m. in the Oasis Lounge. The comedy acts will be followed by music spun by our house DJ until 1 a.m.

Live Entertainment in the Oasis Lounge – Friday-Saturday
Harrah’s Rincon Casino & Resort features free live entertainment provided by some of the best local bands every Friday and Saturday in the Oasis Lounge. The May schedule is as follows:

June 1:                        9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.       Kool Breeze

June 7:                        9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.       Aunt Kizzy’z Boyz

June 8:                        9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.       Identity Theft

June 14:                      9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.       Clay Colton

June 15:                      9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.       Pleazure Band

June 21:                      9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.       WILD $IDE

June 22:                      9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.       Caliber

June 28:                      9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.       Superfreaks

June 29:                      9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.       Official Biz

FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Monthly Beverage Specials
The following beverage specials are available Monday-Thursday at all casino bars: •Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum for $4.75 •Budweiser Draft for $3 •“Good Morning!” $3 Mimosas (Wycliff Champagne and Orange Juice) are available from 6am-noon seven days a week during the month of June.

And you can check out Happy Hour at the Fiore Casino Side Bar Monday-Friday from 4-7 p.m. Happy Hour specials include half price on all wines by the glass, draft beers and house liquors.

ABOUT HARRAH’S RINCON
Winner of the AAA Four-Diamond Award, owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians and managed by HCAL, LLC, a Caesars License Company, Harrah’s Rincon Casino & Resort is located at 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way (33750 Valley Center Road) in Valley Center, CA, 20 minutes northeast of Escondido. With approximately 1,400 employees and an identity as a top resort-gaming destination, the casino offers state-of-the-art amenities and the unparalleled customer service that has made Harrah’s a nationally recognized brand.

The post Things are Heating Up at Harrah’s Rincon in June appeared first on Visit Escondido™.

Daunting, daring, brassy and bold – you will love every minute of Chicago with songs including All That Jazz, I Can’t Do It Alone, Mr. Cellophane and Razzle Dazzle! Chicago holds the record for the longest-running musical revival on Broadway! Relive the magic of this Bob Fosse classic – Rated PG-13.

For tickets please Call 1-888-802-7469 or go to WelkResorts.com
When: 1 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays; 8 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays; through June 2
Where: Welk Resorts Theatre, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido
Tickets: $45 and up (buffet lunch or dinner is $18 extra)

U-T San Diego Review:
Welk’s ‘Chicago’ has ‘Razzle Dazzle’
Ray Limon’s production doesn’t soften the cynicism in the story
By Pam Kragen, March 24, 2013

When the musical “Chicago” debuted in 1975, audiences and critics were initially put off by its cynicism and unsympathetic characters. Over time, its rough edges have been softened by stage and film directors.

But at Welk Resort Theatre, where a new production of Kander and Ebb’s classic opened Saturday, director/choreographer Ray Limon has embraced the musical’s darkest roots. You may not like the selfish, fame-craving characters in this satirical tale of crime and celebrity in Prohibition-era Chicago, but you’ll love this high-energy production.

Limon’s production honors Bob Fosse’s original choreography and vaudeville staging concept in the well-danced show. And since each character is a vaudevillian, Limon allows them to step outside the story and have their moment to milk the audience for applause, whether it’s RC Sands’ quivering lips and chin as crime reporter Mary Sunshine or an epically long final note sung by Randall Dodge as greedy defense attorney Billy Flynn.

Co-starring as the “merry murderesses” Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart — who both plan to cash in on their notoriety as stage stars after Flynn springs them from jail — are Welk vet Natalie Nucci and newcomer Adrienne Storrs.

It’s a nice pairing. Nucci’s a seasoned pro with fire in her belly, sardonic humor and desperation in her eyes. Storrs is greener, hungrier, vivacious and cruel. Their characters aren’t nice ladies, but, boy, can these ladies dance.

There’s great support work here from Dodge (who wears a pencil-thin mustache and self-adoring sneer with aplomb); the scene-stealing Sands; the touchingly tender Shaun Thomas as Roxie’s cuckolded husband, Amos, and the soulful Valerie Geason as the prison Matron. There’s also a solid dance company and onstage band led by music director/keyboardist Justin Gray.

Virtually every number’s a standout, though it’s hard to top the ensembles “We Both Reached for the Gun” and “Cell Block Tango,” or the perfectly delivered duet “Class.”

Welk has the unfortunate timing of opening its “Chicago” on the heels of San Diego Musical Theatre’s much bigger and more spectacular staging of the musical. But this “Chicago” has heart. Not its characters, mind you — they’re a gleefully unrepentant lot — but in its cast.

(Photo: Natalie Nucci as Velma Kelly leads a dance scene in Welk Resort Theatre’s “Chicago.” CREDIT: Sharyn Sakimoto)

The post CHICAGO at Welk Resort Through June 2 appeared first on Visit Escondido™.

May 19, 2013 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

The Escondido Street Faire is held during the months of May and October on Grand Avenue between Centre City and Ivy. The Street Faire is sponsored by the Escondido Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Business Association.

For more information, contact the Chamber at 760-745-2125 or go to http://escondidochamber.org/1897/escondido-street-faire-returns-may-19th/

For vendor information, please call Keith Kennedy & Associates, 760-945-9288
or Apply Online Here!

• Live entertainment
• Over 700 booths
• Arts/Crafts
• Farmers Market
• International foods
• Second largest in California
• Fun for the whole family!

ESCONDIDO STREET FAIRE STAGE SCHEDULE

9:30 – 10:00am DANCE FX Frances Worley dancefxstudio@cox.net

10:10 – 10:50am TBD 

11 – 11:45am  Off BROADWAY DANCERS Michaelann Johnson  dancemikeyj@msn.com Our diverse group of dancers range in age from 3 to 16 years We are a nonprofit Dance studio that is very affordable and gives children the opportunity to take dance classes.

11:50 – 12:20pm  CHURCH’S ANGELS Gloria Zeitung  Gzeitung@yahoo.com Channah Zeitung   Martial arts child prodigies and California’s state champion.  Started competing at 3 yrs of age against boys and girls twice her age. Featured on ABC network Katie Couric Show, Channah is one of 5 of the nations wonder kids, Rayna Vallendingham, age 10 world champion at age 8 holds the record, Kathryn Baron world champion and Channah’s mentor, and Olivia Polumbo age 9 California’s state champion .

12:30 – 1:00pm TBD

1:30 – 2pm – EAST WEST MMA Ashley Uribe senseiestebanuribe@yahoo.com East West MMA is located in Escondido off of West Valley Parkway. We offer practical self defense courses for all ages and skill levels in a fun and exciting family atmosphere! As part of our community outreach program, anyone who inquires today will receive our introductory package, including 2 private classes and fitness evaluation absolutely free!

2 – 2:15pm  FLIP TO CHEER Tammy Atyim fliptocheer@yahoo.com The Pommettes Cheerleaders are a group of young ladies from Escondido from ages 4 to 11.  The group holds classes through the city of Escondido parks and Recreation Dept.  The girls learn cheers, pom dances as well as tumbling skills in our popular “Cheer-nastics” class.  The girls enjoy performing at many community events.  The group also has preschool classes as well as tumbling classes.  The class is run by Miss Tammy Atyim.

2:30 – 3:50pm OPEN FOR BUSINESS Scott Mercer mercer434@sbcglobal.net Mason Mercer age 15(lead singer/keyboard) Brady Kerr age 16(lead guitar) Jessica Kerr age 15 (bass guitar) Matt Siemer age 13 (drums) They have been playing together for 3 years and yes Brady and Jessica are brother and sister! They are passionate about their music/performing and are also advocates for No Bullying in schools. www.openforbusinessband.com

4:00 – 5:15pm POPPI GRANDE AND THE SHAKEDOWN DADDIES Ray Mead ray_mead@cox.net Poppi Grande and The Shakedown Daddies play high-energy, original music mixed with a unique spin on our favorite covers. This electric four piece rock band will stir you emotionally and move you physically. Bet you can’t sit still!

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Race day events for the AMGEN Tour of California on Sunday, May 12 start at 9:00 a.m. in downtown Escondido.

You can experience the opening ceremonies and the official start of the race at 11 a.m. on Grand Ave at Broadway, then stay downtown for events and festivals, watch the race on jumbo screens and be there for the exciting finish at approximately 3:30 p.m.

Come and see us in the Visit Escondido booth at the Amgen Lifestyle Festival in Maple Street Plaza and spin the bike wheel for great prizes!

Events:  Sunday, May 12:

Honor Ride The Amgen Tour of California has teamed up with Ride 2 Recovery to raise money for veterans through Honor Ride events. Ride 2 Recovery’s mission is to improve the health and wellness of healing heroes through mental and physical rehabilitation programs that feature cycling as the core activity.
When: 9:30 a.m.
Location: Woodward Ave and north on Escondido Blvd

Good Morning AMGEN! Ready for an epic day? Get your blood pumping in Grape Day Park with a FREE Crossfit session! Sponsored by Crossfit Xystum. When: 9:00 a.m. Crossfit, 10:30 a.m. Yoga Location: Grape Day Park

Kid’s Zone Enjoy FREE fun for the entire family! The kid’s zone will be full of exciting, hands-on events for all ages. This special area is generously sponsored by Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap.
When: 9:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.
Location: San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum

Food Truck Village All that pedaling making you hungry? Stop by the Food Truck Village organized by T1O Events for a quick bite. Featuring 19 trucks … many area favorites and some new truck faces! Check back for a complete list of participating trucks!
When: 8:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.
Location: On Broadway, between Woodward & Valley Parkway

Escondido Street Eats Race-side outdoor dining area offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack and beverage selections, plus souvenir photo booth, outdoor gear, bikes, and even Mother’s Day gift retailers.
When: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: 220-260 W. Grand Ave, NE corner of Escondido Blvd and Grand Ave.

Jam in the Park Find a spot and relax in Grape Day Park! The Amgen Jam will feature two live bands:
11:30 a.m. – Dead Feather Moon is a San Diego-based band whose distinguished sound combines Rock with Alt-Country and Psychedelic Blues.
1:30 p.m. – Sue Palmer & Her Motel Swing Orchestra are renowned for their highly energetic shows and have received rave reviews for their live performances. Her band plays a wonderful combination of swing, blues, New Orleans and boogie-woogie styles.
Don’t miss Xorbing in the Park! Are you ready for a once-in-a-lifetime ride inside a massive plastic ball? Whether you call it eXtreme Orbing,(Xorbing, Zorbing, Orbing, Globe Riding or riding in a human hamster ball, you’ll be laughing and yelling all the way down the hill. $5 per ride

Two Lifestyle Festivals
The AMGEN Tour of California Lifestyle Festival will take place in the newly constructed Maple Street Pedestrian Plaza, Municipal Lot #1 and Broadway between Grand and Valley Pkwy from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
A Local Festival will also be on Maple Street, between Second and Grand Ave. The festivals will feature:
- Over forty (40) participants and interactive mobile displays
- Health & Fitness: Cancer support and awareness, health and physical screenings, educational activities and more
- Cycling Center: Bicycle safety, free bike valet, bicycling manufacturers and vendors featuring cycling gear, gadgets and apparel
- Race Central Pavilion: Race merchandise, commemorative programs and sweepstakes promotions

Breakaway from Cancer® Mile Celebrating cancer survivors everywhere, the Breakaway Miles take place during the Amgen Tour of California before the professional riders roll across the finish line.
When: 2:30 – 3 p.m.
Location: Grand Ave between Escondido Blvd and Broadway

Special Mother’s Day Events!

Mother’s Day Home Tour Enjoy this lovely opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day in a most charming and memorable way by touring several historic homes in the Old Escondido Historic District and enjoying lovely refreshments in a garden.
When: Noon–5:00 p.m.
Location: Old Escondido Historic District For more information, go to OldEscondido.org

The Goods – An Artisan Mother’s Day Festival at Orfila Vineyards & Winery Join the fun at this beautiful vineyard and winery location for an amazing festival to include gourmet food trucks, craft beers, live music, local artists, and of course, Orfila wines!
When: 3 – 7:30 p.m.

Connect with us all weekend!
www.facebook.com/Amgen2013Escondido
www.facebook.com/VisitEscondido
www.twitter.com/ATOCEscondido
www.twitter.com/VisitEscondido

#atoc   #atoc2013   #escondido

 For more info including road closures, go to
Amgen2013Escondido.com

Best Viewing Locations

The post Amgen Tour of California Race Day Activities & Viewing Locations appeared first on Visit Escondido™.

Escondido VIP Hospitality Tent – At the race start/finish line on Grand Ave in Downtown Escondido, Sunday, May 12
Limited tickets are available for this exclusive front row seat to the race. Mingle in style and enjoy all-inclusive food and beverages (including beer and wine) from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Flat screen TVs inside the tent will broadcast the race live, plus you’ll be able to see the start/finish and announcers’ stage right from the tent’s patio.

These are one-of-a-kind opportunities, especially for cycling fans. Or why not treat your mom to a unique Mother’s Day gift?
Tickets and more information are online at www.Amgen2013Escondido.com.

Other opportunities:

The 2013 Amgen Tour of California professional road cycling race brings with it the opportunity for fans to immerse themselves in the world of cycling during the eight-day race May 12-19, 2013. From the Lifestyle Festival that travels to a new host city each day to special VIP Experiences that provide unprecedented access inside the race, including access to the riders, there is something for everyone, from budding fan to avid cyclist.

The 2013 Amgen Tour of California will cover nearly 750 miles of scenic California roadways, highways and coastlines. While the annual race will feature the world’s elite road racers, fans don’t have to be cyclists to enjoy the race – the Amgen Tour of California Lifestyle Festival, perfect for all interest levels and ages, provides a day of entertainment and fun for the whole family.

The Lifestyle Festival, located near the finish line at each stage, is the perfect destination for fans who arrive early to interact with sponsors, vendors and other enthusiasts while they wait for the cyclists to cross the finish line later in the day. As the official gathering point for all participants, spectators and vendors, the day-long festival will feature cycling products and demos, cancer awareness education, family activities, food, entertainment and more. Visitors can congregate among fellow race watchers, take in live music, grab lunch or a beverage in the beer garden, watch the race live on outdoor video screens, and participate in a bike safety clinic to get ready to hit the road after seeing the pros cross the finish line.

For avid cycling fans looking to create the ultimate race-day memory, short of turning pro, you can’t get any closer to the action than Amgen Tour of California VIP Experiences. These limited edition hospitality packages are the only way to get on the course and behind the scenes during a stage of America’s Greatest Race:

VIP Car Ride ($1,500 – $2,500): Experience the crowd, the course and the excitement the way the riders do by following the peloton on the route in an official race vehicle. Arrive ahead of the cyclists and watch them race to the finish line from the VIP Suite, then follow the stage winners to the official post-race press conference, which is otherwise closed to the public. Finish Line Experience ($1,000): This exclusive “behind the scenes” VIP Experience provides access to the official media compound, backstage to watch the award presentations from the green room, and to the post-race press conference where the stage winners recap the day.

Read more on VIP ops…

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA OVERALL RACE START IN ESCONDIDO, CLICK HERE!

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This annual event raises funds that are distributed to the Community Services Department’s Share a Dream Scholarship and Youth Programs.  This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the community while playing a sport you enjoy!

The tournament is a four-player scramble with a shot gun start.  Registration includes green fees, cart, dinner, and tee package.  Individual and teams awards will be given during the evening program in addition to a silent auction and raffle.  Not playing golf, but want to participate in the dinner, awards, auction and raffle?  No problem. Dinner guests are welcome with tickets available for $30.

Check-in begins at 11:00 a.m. with a free driving range available from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  The shot gun start is at 1:00 p.m. with dinner and awards held at 6:00 p.m.

Pre-registration has ended, but mention this post as a friend of Visit Escondido when you register by May 7th and receive the discounted price of $95 per person.  Registration is available at the Community Services Department at Escondido City Hall, or you can download an application online at http://fore.escondido.org.  

For questions or additional information, please contact a Community Services representative at 760.839.4386.

This tournament is a four-player scramble with a shot gun start. It is a unique opportunity to contribute to the community while playing a sport you enjoy. Professional golfers are welcome to participate, however, are not eligible to receive team or individual awards.

What’s Included:
Green Fees & Cart
Delicious dinner following tournament, served on the green. Guests are welcome for an additional fee.
Individual & Team Awards
Tee Package, Silent Auction, & Raffle Prizes

Schedule of Events:
11:00 a.m. Check-in
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Free Driving Range available
1:00 p.m. Shot Gun Start
6:00 p.m. Dinner & Awards

Held at The Vineyard at Escondido:
The Vineyard at Escondido is a Par 70 course measuring 6,531 yards from the blue tees. The scenic layout winds through acres of mountainside, obstacles, and five lakes. The Vineyard at Escondido is located at 925 San Pasqual Road. Cleats with metal spikes are not permitted.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available!

Exclusive and Premium sponsorship opportunities are still available for this upcoming event. This established event provides businesses and individuals with a prime opportunity to support Escondido Recreation and the youth it serves. All contributions are tax deductible and will receive recognition based on the sponsorship level selected. For more information, please call 760-839-4382.

Proceeds will be distributed to the Escondido Recreation’s Share a Dream Scholarship Program and Youth Programs.

The post FORE Escondido – 19th Annual Charity Golf Tournament appeared first on Visit Escondido™.

Custom Jerseys from Champion System Will Carry Leader Names for Each Stage, Including Amgen Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey Designed by Northern California Resident

The leader jersey lineup for the upcoming 2013 Amgen Tour of California professional road cycling race has been unveiled by race operator AEG.   A long-standing tradition in professional cycling, special race jerseys will be awarded daily to overall race leaders in several categories. New to the race this year, each award jersey from Champion System, the official jersey partner of the 2013 Amgen Tour of California, will carry the last name of the cyclist wearing it during competition – believed to be a first for any professional cycling race.

Earlier this month, Martinez, Calif. resident Matt Orendorff won AEG’s design contest for the 2013 Amgen Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey, chosen from a pool of submissions and determined by a panel of judges. Orendorff’s winning design, which will be featured in the race, prominently features the Breakaway from Cancer logo and a clean, sharp race-inspired design. His prize package includes a trip for him and one guest to one stage of the 2013 Amgen Tour of California, including round trip airfare, hotel accommodations, VIP Hospitality passes, a race merchandise package, and the opportunity to meet the Most Courageous Rider winner of the stage following the awards ceremony.

“Leader jerseys are one of the great traditions of cycling,” said Kristin Bachochin, executive director of the race and senior vice president of AEG Sports. “In the past seven editions of the Amgen Tour of California, we’ve seen some epic performances from the cyclists who have been awarded these top honors. I look forward to seeing how this year’s competition unfolds.”

“We wanted to create something for the Amgen Tour of California that brought our philosophy of customer unique branding to these leader jerseys. Each leader of each category will be wearing their personal branded jersey with their name on it, sporting a unique piece of this year’s race history,” said Scott Kaylin, president of Champion System.

The 2013 Amgen Tour of California, which will cover nearly 750 miles of scenic California roadways, highways and coastlines from May 12 – 19, will feature the world’s elite cyclists vying for these six leader jerseys:

• Amgen Race Leader Jersey: The coveted yellow jersey is awarded daily to the rider with the lowest cumulative time over the entire race. The rider wearing this jersey often changes from stage to stage as each day’s results are added into the equation. It is possible for a rider to win the Amgen Race Leader Jersey without winning a daily stage since the jersey takes into account overall times.

• Amgen Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey: This special and traditional jersey will be awarded daily to the cyclist who best exemplifies the character of those engaged in the fight against cancer – courage, sacrifice, inspiration, determination, and perseverance.

• Nissan King of the Mountain (KOM) Jersey: The 2013 race is characterized by a great deal of climbing, and this jersey goes to the peloton’s strongest climber. A cyclist earns this jersey by collecting points at designated King of the Mountain (KOM) locations located at the tops of mountains and hills. Only the first three cyclists to reach the top on rated climbs receive points towards this award.

• Visit California Sprint Jersey: The Sprint Jersey is awarded to the rider that accumulates the most bonus points, which are given based on Sprint Line performances as well as finishing the stage in the top-15 places. Cyclists who specialize in bursts of power and speed, or consistently finish near the top of each stage, will have the best chance to wear the respected green jersey.

• Crunchies Best Young Rider Jersey: Crunchies, “Nature’s Ultimate Snack Food,” is a first-time sponsor of this sought-after Best Young Rider jersey. It will be awarded on the podium daily to the rider under age 24 with the least amount of elapsed time over the entire race to that point. This jersey is an easy way to spot rising cycling stars.

For fans who covet race-day looks, official Amgen Tour of California leader jerseys and a limited edition race jersey are available exclusively at www.amgentourofcaliforniastore.com.

About the Amgen Tour of California
The largest cycling event in America, the 2013 Amgen Tour of California is a Tour de France-style cycling road race, created and presented by AEG, that challenges the world’s top professional cycling teams to compete along a demanding course from May 12-19, 2013. For more information about the men’s and women’s races, please visit www.amgentourofcalifornia.com.

About Amgen
Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures and delivers innovative human therapeutics. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen was one of the first companies to realize the new science’s promise by bringing safe and effective medicines from lab, to manufacturing plant, to patient. Amgen therapeutics have changed the practice of medicine, helping millions of people around the world in the fight against cancer, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, bone disease and other serious illnesses. With a deep and broad pipeline of potential new medicines, Amgen remains committed to advancing science to dramatically improve people’s lives. To learn more about Amgen’s pioneering science and vital medicines, visit www.amgen.com. Follow Amgen on www.twitter.com/amgen.

About AEG
AEG is one of the leading sports and entertainment presenters in the world. AEG, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Anschutz Company, owns or controls a collection of companies including facilities such as STAPLES Center, The Home Depot Center, Sprint Center, The O2, Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE and Best Buy Theater Times Square; sports franchises including the Los Angeles Kings (NHL), two Major League Soccer franchises, two hockey franchises operated in Europe, management of privately held shares of the Los Angeles Lakers, the Bay to Breakers foot race and the Amgen Tour of California cycling road race; AEG Live, the organization’s live-entertainment division, is a collection of companies dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performance, touring and a variety of programming and multi-media production. For more information, visit AEG today at www.aegworldwide.com.

About Escondido
With a beautiful year round climate Escondido is the heart of northern San Diego. Rich in history and culture, it’s home to the California Center for the Arts, a unique visual and performing arts complex; the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, an expansive wildlife sanctuary; an amazing sculpture garden created by the late world-acclaimed artist Niki de Saint Phalle; and the Daley Ranch, a wilderness preserve with extensive hiking trails.

Escondido also offers a variety of culinary experiences with chef-owned restaurants such as Vintana Wine + Dine, Intertwined Bistro & Wine Bar, and Bellamy’s, three weekly farmers’ markets, many beautiful boutique wineries with spectacular views, and the best of the craft beer culture at Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens.

This wonderfully unique area also offers many other activities such as enjoying a round of golf at one of the five golf courses, fishing or picnicking at three lakes, cycling on Palomar Mountain, hiking on the Caballo Trail, browsing through downtown art galleries or shopping at world-class retail stores and the largest auto park in Southern California. You can also play at one of several nearby casino resorts! For more information go to www.visitescondido.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA OVERALL RACE START IN ESCONDIDO, CLICK HERE!

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