|
 September 23, 2022
|
|
 Bodie State Historic Park
Photo title: "A Summer Sun Sets Over California’s Past"
This is “State Parks for All” because: “During the Gold Rush, people from all over the world came to California to pursue a better life for themselves and their families. Today, people from all over the world still come to Bodie—a historic mining boomtown—to gain an understanding of the past. We may call Bodie a 'ghost town,' but it continues to make vital connections for each person who visits today.”
Date taken: Aug. 9, 2022
Photo by: Colt Russell, Sierra District. Colt is a senior park aide and has been with the department for almost three years.
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Photo title: "Park Visitors Love Packer"
This is “State Parks for All” because: "Horses 101 is a program put on by our mounted volunteers to introduce the public to horses and learn about trail and campground courtesy. A large number of our park visitors have never seen a horse up close and in person. This program gives them an opportunity to meet a horse and ask questions. They also get to talk to the horse’s owner and learn what it is like to care for their four-legged companions. It is so much fun watching the kids petting the horses using what they have learned from the presentation. Horses 101 has been Cuyamaca’s most popular program this summer."
Date taken: A July 2022 weekend
Photo by: Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District. Michele is a state park interpreter and has been with the department for seven years.
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Photo title: "Mule Deer Roaming the Fields at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park"
This is “State Parks for All” because: "I love this photo because of the beautiful colors and how peaceful the deer look. This is a perfect example of a nondisturbed state park. Our mission statement is embodied by the preservation of the park’s natural resources."
Date taken: Aug. 11, 2022
Photo by: Emily Swarthout, Colorado Desert District. Emily is a state parks peace officer (ranger) at Palomar Mountain State Park, but she started her career as a park aide at San Diego Coast District in 2018. She took the next step in her career and recently graduated from the Basic Visitor Service Training 47 in April.
 San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
Photo title: "Sunrise on the O’Neil Forebay"
This is “State Parks for All” because: "This image to me represents the rewards we all experience in our state parks, which includes quality recreational opportunities, such as fishing, combined with beautiful scenes like sunrises and sunsets."
Date taken: Sept. 10, 2022
Photo by: Lee Sencenbaugh, Central Valley District. Lee is currently a senior park aide but retired from his position as a state park superintendent II. He has been with the department since June 1987.
 Sinkyone Wilderness State Park
Photo title: "Haven’t you 'herd'? The Lost Coast Trail is a great place to see elk."
This is “State Parks for All” because: “State Parks are places of sanctuary, enjoyment and inspiration not only for the people of California and beyond, but also to the astounding variety of plants and animals that call our parks home. It was a real treat to spend time watching this herd of Roosevelt elk of all ages, including young calves, grazing along the Lost Coast Trail and relaxing on the beach later in the afternoon."
Date taken: Aug. 5, 2022
Photo by: Naftali Moed, Bay Area District. Naftali is an environmental scientist and has been with the department for over three years.
|
|
Governor Newsom Proclaims Today Native American Day
Story from: Governor’s Press Office
 Flags of various Native California Tribes outside the State Capitol building. Photo from California State Parks.
As leaders of Native American tribes from across California gathered today for the 55th Annual Native American Day celebration at the State Capitol, Governor Gavin Newsom issued a proclamation declaring Sept. 23, 2022, as Native American Day in the State of California.
Here is an excerpt from the governor’s proclamation: “On California Native American Day, we honor and celebrate the first peoples and nations of this place who have long stood as an example of the leadership, determination, ingenuity and empathy needed to face the existential challenges of climate change, cultural shifts and meeting the needs of diverse communities … I encourage all Californians to spend time on this Native American Day not only learning about the rich histories, traditions and contributions of the diverse tribal communities throughout the state, but finding ways to answer the call for truth, visibility and justice for California Native peoples.”
Click here to read the full proclamation.
What Do You Love About Fall? Capture It in Next Photo Contest
Story from: Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division
 What do you love about fall? Snap a shot and share it for this next photo contest. The beautiful colors of fall captured at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. Photo from California State Parks.
Today we announced the top five “State Parks for All” photo contest winners (see above). Congrats to the top five and a big thank you to everyone who shared their photos with us! The “State Parks for All” contest received a variety of photos, but these top five exhibited why the state’s 279 parks are for all. From the wildlife to the history to the recreational activities that visitors can enjoy when they visit California’s state parks, these winning photos exemplified the beauty of nature and what everyone can enjoy when they visit the outdoors.
The top five photos will be shared next week (September 26-30) on California State Parks' social media accounts (Instagram, Facebook and Twitter). Be sure to share them and give them some love!
For this upcoming photo contest, it’s all about fall—"Fall in Love With Fall.” With summer over, fall has now begun, bringing new seasonal changes and cooler weather, but also a change in color in nature. For the “Fall in Love With Fall” photo contest, the idea is simple—share what you love about fall while out in nature. Is it hiking in the rain? Camping under the cooler night sky? The changing colors? The wildlife? Whatever it is that you love about fall in the state’s 279 parks, capture it in a photo and make sure to submit it for the contest.
The “Fall in Love With Fall” photo contest started September 22 and ends Dec. 5, 2022. If your photos include people who are not State Parks employees or volunteers, please remember that you must have a Visual Media Consent form (DPR 993).
To be eligible to participate, you must be a State Parks employee or park volunteer and submit your photos to the Weekly Digest. Provide a brief caption description of your “Fall in Love with Fall” photo and the name of the state park the photo was taken in. The Communications and Marketing team will announce the top five photos in December. The photos will be showcased in the Weekly Digest as well as State Parks’ social media channels with their photo credit.
The rules and criteria to submit photos are:
- Submit photos to the Weekly Digest email address with the subject line “Fall in Love With Fall.”
- Photos must be taken between Sept. 22–Dec. 5, 2022.
- Photos with images of nonpark staff or volunteers must include a Visual Media Consent form (DPR 993).
- Photos can be taken at any of California’s 279 state parks or State Parks office.
- Only park employees and volunteers can submit photos.
- Photos will be judged on photo quality, uniqueness, moment captured and content.
- The top five photos chosen will be shared on California State Parks’ social media channels and in the Weekly Digest.
- Photos will be judged by the Communications and Marketing team (who is not eligible to participate in the contest).
- Photo images should be a minimum of 1920×2400 ppi.
If you have any questions about the contest, please send an email to the Weekly Digest. If you have any new photo contest ideas, email us your suggestions.
Our Promise 2002 Kick-Off Celebration
Story from: Elisa Partin, Administrative Services Division
 The Our Promise California State Employees Giving at Work campaign is right around the corner. This year's campaign will run from October 1 through Dec. 31, 2022.
Get inspired to give by attending the kick-off event on Tuesday, October 4, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on the West Steps of the Capitol (1315 10th St., Sacramento, California). This is a free event featuring more than 100 nonprofit booths. Learn how nonprofits are caring for California and how your dollars can make a huge impact for your favorite cause.
Preregister by Friday, September 30, to be entered to win a prize!
If you have any questions, please contact Elisa Partin at Elisa.Partin@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
State Parks Director Quintero Saves Life While at Meeting in Redding
Story from: Brian Ketterer, Coastal/Desert Division, and Doug Johnson, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
During a superintendent meeting in Redding, California, this week, California State Parks Director Armando Quintero stepped in to help someone in need, potentially saving a life.
“This stuff just happens so quickly, there isn’t even time for adrenaline to kick in, it’s just done,” the director said while talking about the incident.
Monday evening, while finishing up an informal gathering with a small group of State Parks leaders in the hotel club, Director Quintero noticed a server with a strange look on her face.
“I looked at her and I thought something’s not right. I asked, ‘Are you OK?’ and she gave me this odd look, and I thought, oh, my God, she’s choking,” he later recalled.
Without hesitation, he provided the Heimlich maneuver and successfully forced out a grape the person was choking on. Many others at the dinner had things in their hands, and by the time they realized what was happening, the director had already acted.
While shaken, the server was okay. But Director Quintero and other State Parks leaders wanted to make sure. The director pointed out that often after choking, people can have trouble swallowing again.
“What was really cool was being with my colleagues. We sat her in a chair, somebody brought her a bottle of water and we said you need to just drink liquids again and get comfortable with swallowing again,” he said. “And we just made sure she was fine, and it only took a few minutes.”
The server later came back and gave him a beverage, free of charge.
“No fanfare, no prescribed speech, no intention other than someone needed help,” Coastal Division Chief Brian Ketterer later described the director’s actions in an email to staff. “[His actions were] the embodiment of our State Park System.”
“As soon as that happened, my colleagues all said you just saved a life. My first thought was that’s what you guys do every day,” Director Quintero said.
Wrangling a Sheep Near Malibu Creek State Park
Story from: Ilsa Buelow, Angeles District
 "Hidalgo" the sheep is safely rescued near Malibu Creek State Park. Photos from B. Maikai, Angeles District.
While leaving Malibu Creek State Park on Tuesday, September 20, I noticed a sheep wandering by the side of a busy street. I stopped both lanes of traffic to ensure the animal's safety and called Ranger Daniel Allen for backup to help catch the sheep. In the process, off-duty Ranger B. Maikai noticed the commotion and pulled over to assist.
Rangers Allen and Maikai and I put our resources together, got creative and fashioned leashes out of tow straps to wrangle the ram. The sheep moved into an open field of Malibu Creek before darting down a hill, where he thankfully wedged himself in some bushes to end the "goose" chase. Once he was leashed up, we trekked back up the hill through the overgrown brush, lifted our new buddy into Ranger Allen's truck and waited for Animal Control to transport the sheep to their facilities.
In the meantime, our mystery friend got his fill of water and was nicknamed “Hidalgo” after the 2000s classic film starring Viggo Mortensen, which happens to be a fan favorite of Ranger Allen's. Hidalgo is now patiently waiting at the Agoura animal shelter until either his owner is found or he is adopted.
Thank you, Malibu Creek team, for your continued dedication to protecting not only our native critters, but the strays that wander in.
New Recreational Activities Introduced at Trione-Annadel State Park
Story and photos from: Alexis "Lexi" Jones, Bay Area District
 Left: Supervising Ranger Alexis Jones tries her hand at a fly-fishing cast. Top right: Ranger Cecilia Rejas tries her skills on a stand-up paddleboard. Bottom right: Visitors enjoying new recreational activities on Lake Ilsanjo at Trione-Annadel State Park.
The summer of 2022 brought new activities to Trione-Annadel State Park’s (SP) Lake Ilsanjo. The lake is a manmade reservoir and has always been the destination for adventurous anglers and swimmers willing to embark on a 2.5-mile hike up to the saddle of Trione-Annadel SP. The lake, named after “Ilsa and Jo” (IIlsa+Jo=Ilsanjo), has blue gill that visitors fish for from various points around the lake.
With the support of Friends of Trione-Annadel (FOTA) and myself, two new recreation activities were hosted this past summer. The first event was a partnership with Sports Basement to introduce kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) on the lake. We had 50 participants sign up through our cooperating association’s website, and each got an opportunity to paddle around and explore the lake on SUPs and kayaks. It was a complete success, and we have already had folks start to bring their own SUPs to the lake!
On Saturday, September 17, we hosted the nonprofit organization California Trout (Cal Trout) for a fly-fishing demo day. Cal Trout came with two master cast instructors and taught people how to cast. Practice casting was done on land first (it’s hard to get the hang of), and no hooks were used. After the practice session, the participants graduated to casting in the lake. Cal Trout also took the opportunity to have a booth set up at the lake to showcase the advocacy work they do statewide.
Both events were well attended and were very well received by the public. It is always great to introduce new recreational activities within our park.
Channel Coast District Establishes New Western Snowy Plover Docent Program at Carpinteria State Beach
Story from: Sydney Hild, Channel Coast District
 Two recently hatched western snowy plovers at Carpinteria State Beach. Photo from Sydney Hild, Channel Coast District.
The Channel Coast District expanded their Western Snowy Plover Docent Program by establishing a new plover docent program at Carpinteria State Beach (SB).
Back in 2021, Carpinteria SB hosted a pair of western snowy plovers (WSP) that successfully hatched and fledged three chicks, which was a first in over 60 years! This one nest sparked a great deal of public interest and excitement in the Carpinteria community, and many community members wanted to know how they could get involved.
Near the start of the 2022 nesting season, Carpinteria SB welcomed its first group of plover docents. State Parks staff trained seven passionate volunteers to help assist with observation, outreach and public education about nesting WSP on Carpinteria SB. Carpinteria SB sees a record-breaking number of visitors every summer and our plover docents assisted park staff by educating visitors about sharing the beach with WSP. Carpinteria’s seven plover docents volunteered their time during the busy summer weekends of May through August, working shifts to be present during the peak hours of recreational activity.
On Friday, September 16, State Park staff hosted an appreciation barbecue for the docents. The barbecue was a time of reflection as they reviewed how the season went and brainstormed ways to improve their efforts next nesting season.
Carpinteria SB ends this nesting season with seven wonderful plover docents, and both the docents and park staff are looking forward to growing the plover docent program next nesting season.
 Group photo taken after the plover docent barbecue on the Carpinteria State Beach boardwalk. Left to right: Forestry Aide Katelyn Stewart; Channel Coast District Superintendent Greg Martin; Forestry Aides Meagen Najera and Mike Bechtel; Environmental Scientist Sydney Hild; Plover Docents John Calendar, Deidre Sklar, Tom Beland, Laurel Luby, Doug Elder and Chris Elder; Senior Environmental Scientist Nat Cox; Plover Docent Linda Rose; and Skilled Laborer Dexter Reynolds. Photo from Dave Wilson, Channel Coast District.
Girl Scouts Love State Parks, Including California Citrus State Historic Park
Story from: Marymar Mendoza and Samantha Alonso, Inland Empire District
 San Gorgonio Girl Scout troop no. 1521 and no. 42 receiving their Girl Scout Love State Parks patch for completing their passport guide at California Citrus State Historic Park. Photo from Marymar Mendoza, Inland Empire District.
Every year, Girl Scouts explore the natural wonders found across the country during the Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend. Girl Scouts nationwide, along with their troops, friends and families, celebrate our shared love of the outdoors.
This year, Girl Scouts Love State Parks week took place on September 10 and 11, and here at California Citrus State Historic Park, we hosted approximately 80 Girl Scouts. Led by our volunteer Michelle Nichols, Girl Scouts were given the opportunity to take a tour of our citrus groves along with sampling some delicious fruit along the way.
Inside our visitor center, the scouts were treated to many wonderful activities on their visit, including the Junior Ranger Adventure Activity Book, the opportunity to become a Litter Getter, various arts and crafts and a fun little game we call, “Guess the Scat!”
 Top left: Senior Park Aides Samantha Alonso and Marymar Mendoza with San Gorgonio Girl Scout Troop no. 1086. Top right: Girl Scouts tasting delicious citrus from our groves. Bottom left: Girl Scouts taking part in the Litter Getter program, helping keep our park clean. Bottom middle: Girl Scout Olivia trying the Australian finger lime. Bottom right: Volunteer Michelle Nichols giving the San Gorgonio Girl Scouts a tour of our varietal groves. Photos from Marymar Mendoza and Samantha Alonso, Inland Empire District.
Annual Docent Barbecue Held at La Purísima Mission State Historic Park
Story from: Kristen McNally, Channel Coast District
 Park volunteers/docents and La Purísima Mission State Historic Park staff around the Padres Fountain during the recent barbecue. Photos from Leah Braitman and Kristen McNally, Channel Coast District.
Over 70 volunteers and docents gathered with their friends and family on Saturday, September 10, for the annual La Purísima Mission State Historic Park docent barbecue around Padre's Fountain. The evening began with appetizers around the fountain, where guests socialized and reconnected with fellow volunteers and docents. As the evening continued and the barbecue was ready, State Parks staff grabbed their serving utensils and filled guests' plates with tri-tip, chicken, rice, beans and bread.
After dinner was served and enjoyed, awards were presented to volunteers and docents. Active volunteers were each given a specialized certificate with their total hours for the year. Those with 10 years of service or more were each given a red rose handed out by Channel Coast District Interpreter III Ann Boggess and Channel Coast District State Park Superintendent Greg Martin. The evening concluded with handcrafted awards created by the La Purísima Mission interpretive staff and given to volunteer activity groups, including tour guides, bread makers, crafters, animal caregivers and board members. These unique awards always get a good laugh from the crowd as they are often creatively and uniquely crafted.
The docent barbecue is held annually during the summer and is a way for park staff to show appreciation and say thank you for the outstanding dedication from park volunteers throughout the year. We look forward to celebrating around the fountain again next year!
Plenty Happening at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
Story from: Mike Ninneman, Central Valley District
 Railtown 1897 SHP volunteers (left to right) Mike Bispo, Mike Ninneman and Garrett Franklin washing Sierra Railway engine No. 3. Photo from Peter Stewart, Park Operations.
Saturday, September 17, was a busy day for staff at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park.
The Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association, Branch 49, displayed many of their historic industrial machines in the picnic area, while resident movie star Sierra Railway engine No. 3 was brought outside for washing.
Train rides through the scenic California Mother Lode behind 100-year-old steam locomotive No. 28 ran all day in beautiful weather. In the evening, visitors were treated to a free movie night with a showing of “Back to the Future Part III” behind the roundhouse, which was filmed using engine No. 3 and several other pieces of Railtown’s historic rail equipment.
When our visitors are excited and having a good time at this place that we all love, the time and effort it takes to bring Railtown to life is worth every moment.
 Top: Sierra No. 28 on the turntable, with volunteers Paul and Laura Huston in foreground. Bottom right: Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association, Branch 49, historic industrial machines. Bottom left: Railtown Movie Night featured showing of “Back to the Future Part III." Photos from Mike Ninneman, Central Valley District.
State Parks Communications Supervisors Participate in Women Leaders in Law Enforcement Event
Story from: Julie Higday, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
My partner, Communications Supervisor Joanne Levelle, and I attended the Women Leaders in Law Enforcement (WLLE) Symposium in Orange County at the Anaheim Hilton Convention Center from September 12-14. This year’s turnout hit a record of 1,600 attendees.
The purpose of the training symposium is to bring together law enforcement professionals in a supportive and empowering environment, enabling us all to learn from the knowledge and experience of others. WLLE is a unique opportunity to network and connect with women and men who can help you succeed in your future endeavors. The symposium's goal is to continue to provide dynamic, contemporary training presented by subject matter experts in their fields and designed to help develop both professional and sworn members of the law enforcement community.
It was an honor and privilege to attend the conference for the first time. I felt the energy and comradery each day of the conference with all the female officers and professional staff (nonsworn) in attendance from a number of law enforcement agencies. Everyone shared a common understanding, unity and empowerment as we heard from the leaders of the organization and the exceptional keynote speakers over the three-day event.
By the last day of the event, I decided to share my experience with others in hopes that it will bring awareness to future WLLE events. I want to let everyone know about WLLE, especially in State Parks. I do not believe there were any State Parks rangers or professional staff in attendance other than my partner and I to represent our agency.
To learn more, please review the information links below and the YouTube video that was shown to us on the first day.
Next year’s WLLE symposium is scheduled for Sept. 6-8, 2023, in San Diego, California.
|
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
|
To view current job openings within California State Parks, please visit our jobs webpage at www.LiveTheParksLife.com.
State Parks Job Spotlights and Open Exams
 WEBINAR
Facilities and Park Maintenance Webinar: Oct. 6, 2022, at 10:30 a.m.: In this webinar, you will have the opportunity to learn more about the many career paths and benefits available within our Facilities and Park Maintenance Division. Click here to register for this webinar.
JOB SPOTLIGHTS
State Park Interpreter III – Apply by Sept. 23, 2022: Angeles District is seeking a State Park Interpreter III - District Interpretation and Education Manager to provide high-quality, relevant and engaging interpretation and educational programming. Take the online assessment and apply. Click here for more information.
Office Technician – Apply by Sept. 26, 2022: California State Parks is now hiring an Office Technician in Oceano Dunes. Come join the State Parks Oceano Dunes team in beautiful Oceano and Pismo State Beach. This position supports the Facilities Development field program through accounting and administrative support. Take the online assessment and apply. Click here for more information.
State Park Interpreter I – Apply by Sept. 30, 2022: We are now hiring a State Park Interpreter I in Borrego Springs, California. This position will create lasting connections between students and the parks of the Colorado Desert District. Spark students’ curiosity while harnessing the extraordinary natural and cultural resources of the parks as a living laboratory and place of research. Contribute to the goal of expanding access to parks through high-quality virtual and in-person programs. Take the online assessment and apply. Click here for more information.
Park Maintenance Supervisor – Apply by Oct. 12, 2022: We are now hiring a Park Maintenance Supervisor at Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area. This position will work with Environmental Scientists to plan and implement restoration work, forest management, prescribed fires, trail maintenance and resource management. Click here for more information.
Seasonal/Part-Time – Dates vary: With more than 40 openings statewide, now is a great time to get started in a seasonal/part-time job at California State Parks. With no exam needed, apply to our Park Aide, Maintenance Aide, Environmental Services Intern, Park Interpretive Specialist or Forestry Aide openings today. Click here for more information.
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Park Maintenance Assistant – Until seats are filled: There's still time to register for the Park Maintenance Assistant assessment. Join our Facilities and Park Maintenance by taking this entry-level assessment. From park restoration projects to keeping our parks clean and operational for all, come Live the Parks Life as a Park Maintenance Assistant. Click here for more information.
Park Maintenance Worker I – Until seats are filled: There's still time to register for the Park Maintenance Worker I assessment. From carpentry to masonry to repair and construction, park maintenance workers are essential to keeping visitors safe, preserving our precious resources and ensuring our state parks are operational for all to enjoy year-round. Click here for more information.
Park and Recreation Specialist Exam Series – No deadline: The Park and Recreation Specialist exam series is now online and continuous. Take the assessment (entry level to supervisory) anytime. From grant administration to outdoor education, the right exam is available to match your education and experience level. Click here for more information.
Historical Monument Guide I – Apply by Sept. 23, 2022: As a Guide I, you'll lead tours for park visitors at places like Hearst Castle or other California State Park historical monuments. If you have one year of experience in presenting to the public, apply to take the Guide I, Historical Monument assessment. Click here for more information.
State Park Interpreter I, II and III – No deadline: The State Park Interpreter I, II and III assessments are now available online. Our Interpreters develop interactive educational programs and teach the rich histories of California. Click here for more information.
Superintendent Series – No deadline: The California State Parks Superintendent assessments are available online. As a Superintendent, you'll be responsible for the protection and management of natural and cultural resources, public safety and law enforcement functions, visitor services, interpretation programs, real property management, facilities maintenance and administration. Click here for more information.
Employment Tip
Call Your References: Did you recently interview for a job and are wondering what to do next? Call your references and see if they've been contacted and discuss what was asked. Their insight is valuable.
If you have any questions regarding these opportunities, connect with us at Recruiting@parks.ca.gov. We’re happy to help!
Interested in more jobs and exams like this? Explore www.LiveTheParksLife.com to discover the possibilities.
Join the Parks Jobs mailing list here. We can send you updates on jobs and exams that interest you!
|
|
|
Style time! Here are this week's tips to help spread the word about our departmentwide style guidelines:
-
paddleboard, stand-up paddleboarding: “Paddleboard” is one word; “stand-up” is hyphenated before “paddleboarding.”
-
cross-country: Always use a hyphen, whether used as an adjective, adverb or noun.
-
Animal and plant names: Use lowercase unless a proper name is part of the title. Examples: sea otter, bald eagle, California quail, Douglas fir.
Keeping a consistent writing style ensures the Weekly Digest looks and sounds its best. Each week, the Communications and Marketing Division reviews submitted articles for proper grammar and punctuation and style consistency––from capitalization and hyphenation to proper acronyms and active/passive voice usage. In general, we follow the Associated Press style and Merriam-Webster, but at times we use our own department-specific style.
We always welcome your feedback on how to “Live the Parks Life” in (writing) style. Connect with us via email at weeklydigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
 Chino Hills State Park
Director Armando Quintero makes a stop to meet with park staff.
Left to right: Director Quintero, Groundskeeper Robert Luna, Park Maintenance Worker I Daniel Gascon, Volunteer Mike Lindsey, Interpreter I Ian Bernstein, Interpreter III Teri Pope and Inland Empire District Superintendent Kelly Elliott.
Photo from Armando Quintero, State Parks Director
 Crystal Cove State Park
Our outstanding seasonal maintenance aides: Teamwork is their middle name. They just completed a big brush maintenance job.
Left to right: Alexandra Sasikumar, Jeff Avveduto, Park Maintenance Aide Jeff Brown, Jim Del Crognale and Kasey Magallenes.
Photo from Marty Kansriddle, Orange Coast District
 Reno, Nevada
Several State Park Explosives Detection K-9 teams attended the yearly Reno K-911 training at the beginning of September. This is an explosives detection operationally based, realistic joint K-9 training with federal, state, county and city agencies. Over 100 teams participated this year with 22 different K-9 scenarios running consecutively over a three-day period in Reno, Nevada. Training locations included the El Dorado, Silver Legacy and Circus Circus casinos, the National Bowling Center, The Reno Events Center, Amtrak train station and the Reno Aces baseball stadium.
Left to right: Angelica Stevens and K-9 Halo (Orange Coast District), Aaron Hoff and K-9 Torq (Orange Coast District) and Matt Pasquarella and K-9 Hugo (Capital District).
If interested in becoming a K-9 handler or hosting a K-9 training within your district, please reach out to Mike Gleckler (michael.gleckler@parks.ca.gov) or James Grennan (james.grennan@parks.ca.gov).
Photo from Mike Gleckler, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services
 Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
NBC’s "California Live," with host Malou Nubla, joined Special Projects Coordinator Julie Barrow (above) on a tour of Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park to film a segment on the history of the lighthouse and the restoration efforts. From checking out Whaler’s Cove, going into the tower, viewing the Fresnel lens and taking a peek into one of the hostel cottages, Malou and her crew explored the park. To view the segment, click here.
Photos from Julia Barrow, Santa Cruz District
 California State Railroad Museum
A recent first aid class was held at the museum on Thursday, September 8. The class was taught by two of our fantastic park rangers Hannah Rizzo and Matt Pasquarella. I learned so much from them and hope I never have to use what they taught me. Left: Manikins and lung bags. Top right: Docents Heather Kearns, Ed Moriarty and Terry Bechtel are receiving instructions from Ranger Rizzo before practicing with the AED, as Ranger Pasquarella observes. Bottom right: Ranger Rizzo explains the finer points of chest compressions, taking charge and giving direction during an emergency to docents Heather, Ed and Terry.
Photos from Wendy Sanchez, Capital District
 Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area
Spelunking! On Friday, September 16, Forestry Aide Timothy Hart and Environmental Scientist Elizabeth Gutberlet were performing surveys in the Kiln Cave. Both Timothy and Elizabeth were preparing to “do a science"!
Photos from Timothy Hart and Fiona Catalano, Diablo Range District
 Richardson Grove State Park
Richardson Grove has several gray foxes. Although they are nocturnal, these foxes
are commonly seen in the daytime running through the campgrounds even using the pedestrian crosswalk by the Ranger Office. This fox was spotted on a path by the Eel River bed.
Photo from Ann Hagerman, North Coast Redwoods District
 Sue-meg State Park
A serene September sunset.
Photo from Kevin Manning, park camp host
 Picacho State Recreation Area
Looking southeast from the park across the Colorado River on Tuesday, September 20. The peak in the distance is Thumb Peak in Castle Dome Mountains, in Arizona, which is about 30 miles away.
Photo from Tony Grubb, Ocotillo Wells District
 Trinidad State Beach
Waves upon waves.
Photo from Keven Harder, North Coast Redwoods District
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
|
Sept. 20, 2022
Sept. 21, 2022
|
|
|
The Weekly Digest includes a collection of news articles related to the
California Department of Parks and Recreation. The views expressed and opinions do not always reflect that of the department.
To view this week's News Clips, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/NewsClips.
Weekly Digest Article and Photo Submissions
If you have an article or photo you would like to submit for the Weekly Digest, please send your entries via email to WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
For an article submission, please include:
- Author’s name and division/district.
- All relevant information (e.g., headline, park name, dates, name of event, individuals’ full names and titles, etc.).
Articles should be no longer than 300 words.
For photos, please include:
- Photo credit info and captions.
- Photo release forms should be kept on file for non-employees or volunteers.
Unless otherwise noted, all photos included in the Weekly Digest are courtesy of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
The deadline for Weekly Digest submissions is close of business Thursday. For more information, email WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
|
|
|
