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 April 21, 2023
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 Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
A male California quail is spotted taking in the views of the wildflower bloom.
Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
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Celebrate Your Colleagues and Park Partners at
20th Annual Director's Recognition Awards Ceremony
Story from: Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division
 Each year, California State Parks recognizes employees' and park partners’ exceptional accomplishments at Director’s Recognition Awards ceremonies. After the pandemic forced the ceremony to be held virtually for the last two years, this year’s event will be in-person again. It will take place on Thursday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to noon, at the California Natural Resources Agency Headquarters Auditorium in Sacramento. The ceremony will also be livestreamed for all employees and awardees’ family members who cannot participate in person. You can watch the ceremony at parks.ca.gov/DirectorAwards.
Some of this year’s recipients are being recognized for their heroic efforts during wildfires and winter storms, others for establishing a work environment that promotes teamwork and sustainable upward mobility, and others for their significant efforts in protecting and creating more access to state parks.
A special thank you to those of you who took the time and effort to nominate and honor your colleagues and partners for these awards. Your recognition of their achievements makes this awards program successful.
Below you will find this year’s award recipients for each category. Join the department in celebrating the accomplishments of your colleagues and the spirit of service and commitment to the department’s mission.
ANNUAL RECOGNITION AWARDS:
Climate Adaptation Award: Recognizes those who have taken remarkable steps in preparing for and protecting against the adverse and imminent consequences of climate change, including wildfires, flooding, erosion, air pollution and droughts, as well as threats to park habitats, ecosystems and people.
Redwoods Rising – A collaboration between Save the Redwoods League, the National Park Service and California State Parks.
Compass Award: Recognizes remarkable long-term visioning, innovative thinking and mentorship that fosters talent and provides support to staff at all levels.
Ricky Roldan – Training Section, Administrative Services Division
Equity and Diversity Award: Recognizes those who have made an exceptional contribution to ensuring all Californians have access to the outdoors and cultural sites and have significantly contributed to the department’s values of equity and inclusion.
Outdoors for All Park Pass Program Team:
State Parks: Paul Banas, Laurel Brode, Denise Peterson, Gloria Sandoval, Laura Kujubu, Andrew Shipley, Kimberly Milruya, Oscar Vasquez, Jorge Moreno, Daniel Williford, Tad Perez and Adeline Yee.
California State Library: Natalie Cole, Lisa Nowlain, Reed Strege and Rebecca Wendt.
Department of Social Services: James Gunn, Elizabeth Griffith and Shannon Rohall.
Innovation Award: Recognizes those who have demonstrated the remarkable ability to complete tasks and projects or address park problems through creative and innovative means.
North Coast Redwoods Trail Crew – North Coast Redwoods District
Anahi Aleman Omar Dominguez-Castillo Michael Leone
Matthew Amstutz Zeppelin Estrada Christian Lopez
Gary Asbury Abraham Eudy Jose Loza-Cruz
Andrew Avila George Evans James Lynn
Adam Baran Caleb Farland Dalton Olson
Luz Beltran Nicholas Femenella Jessica Ramirez-Lepe
Bradley Butler Justin Goerrs Peter Richardson
Dontae Cameron Miriam Gregory Yony Rivas
Dee Dee Cathey Camryn Hall Cole Saxen
Joseph Cofresi Jack Harris Lincoln Stone
Brandon DePerna Diego Hernandez Melody Vaughn
Inspiration Award: Recognizes those who have achieved a major public objective while emphasizing community involvement.
Sarinah Simons – Sierra District
Leadership and Vision Award: Recognizes staff with the ability to motivate and inspire others to positive action and who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the ideals and values of the department.
Heather Holm – Interpretation and Education Division
Partnership Award: Recognizes partners who have demonstrated a high level of commitment over a substantial period of time toward accomplishing the department’s mission.
Parks California California State Parks Foundation Save the Redwoods League
Professional Integrity Award: Recognizes employees who demonstrate a high degree of honesty, integrity and idealism in the face of adverse pressure.
Jenan Saunders – Office of Historic Preservation
Resilience Award: Honors an individual or team who tirelessly and valiantly rose to enormous challenges during an emergency response situation and/or recovery effort.
Andrew Capistrano and Daniel Walsh – Strategic Planning and Recreation Services Division
Trailblazer Award: Recognizes those who have introduced new ideas or methods to accomplish the mission of State Parks or pioneered ways to introduce the public to California’s outdoors.
Terri Gaines – Natural Resources Division
SPECIAL COMMENDATION AWARDS: Recognizes employees who have made a significant contribution by going above and beyond the norm and made a substantial impact.
Lisa Andreano – Natural Resources Division
Kari Cotton – Southern Communications Center
Michelle Forsha – Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division
Kelly McFadden – San Luis Obispo Coast District
Andrew Shipley – Strategic Planning and Recreation Services Division
Fire and Forestry Crew – San Luis Obispo Coast District
Myriam Alvarez Madison Gilmartin Andrew Massaro
Brad Collins Kevin Hurt Kelly McFadden
Matt Cunningham Colton Kegeler Mica Sarmiento Martinez
Mateo Fresquez Harrison Kohr Nora Stankavich
SPECIAL ACT OR SERVICE AWARDS: Recognizes employees who have performed an extraordinary act of heroism extending far above the normal call of duty or service and who performed at great risk to their own safety in an effort to save human life and/or property.
Alison Cebula – Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District
Albert Di Paolo – Capital District
Guy Chrisos – Capital District
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Parks Pass Grants From California State Library a Big Hit With Public
Story and photos from: Lisa Nowlain, California State Library
 Photo taken by a patron of grant recipient Santa Clara Public Library. Library patron took library-provided bear canister to Desolation Wilderness in Lake Tahoe area.
As part of the California State Library Parks Pass program, the California State Library managed the Parks Pass Grant program. The program allows public libraries to create parks-based programming that generates positive, measurable impacts in the areas of health, natural resource stewardship, as well as historical and cultural connections, with an equity lens. The first-round grant program projects have included circulating outdoor gear; story walks, ranging from original picture books to mobile story walks to native-plant gardens with signage; and programming, ranging from bilingual bird walks to inclusive presentations to trolley rides in parks.
In the first round, 38 grantee projects from public libraries with budgets up to $5,000 will complete their projects by June 30, 2023. Twenty-three second-round grantees are currently working on their projects as well.
Below are some examples of grant projects, with feedback from the libraries and public:
National City Public Library
The National City Public Library hosted two field trips to local state parks: one at the Tijuana Estuary Reserve and one at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Both field trips included a trolley ride from the library and special kits to deepen their experiences.
“One of the most rewarding moments in our Tijuana Estuary trip came at the conclusion of the trip, after almost all of the attendees had left. A young girl, aged about 13, had attended with her brother and her mom. She thanked me for taking her on the Tijuana Estuary trip and told me this was her first time riding a trolley and she loved it. She talked to me for a while about her backpack (we made nature backpacks for all attendees) and had me show her how to use the magnifying glass, bug catchers, etc. She also said she wanted to work outdoors ‘in the sunshine’ one day. Her mom later told me that they were from Mexico and had not been in the United States for very long, and this was the first time her children got to explore their new home. She was excited, her children were happy, and it was a very positive and meaningful exchange.”
Mono County Library
The Mono County Library is offering a series of guided outdoor walks in the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve area and is circulating binoculars and nature-journal bags. The library will plan several walks during the California State Parks BioBlitz at Mono Lake to increase local participation. At least two outdoor walks will focus on youth and families, and Spanish-speaking participants.
“For the guided bird walk, one special highlight for the participants was being able to look through the state park interpreter’s special telescope to identify Lewis’ woodpeckers, phalaropes, avocets, American robins, grebes and two adult ospreys with two osprey chicks. Two comments that resonated with us included ‘I felt more relaxed and connected to my family from this library program’ and ‘I participated in this program because it was a unique program inclusive of kids and families.’”
Santa Barbara Public Library
The Santa Barbara Public Library is creating and circulating Adventure Packs, which include books and materials useful for outdoor activities in state parks, such as birdwatching, hiking, stargazing, etc. The library is also hosting a virtual Trail Talk series, with different local experts focusing on state parks, and a Chumash Storyteller.
“On the week we launched the Adventure Packs, library staff members introduced them to a Spanish-speaking patron who was going on a road trip. The patron was so excited and said, ‘From now on, I will check what the library has available before planning my vacation. I love all you have and offer for free. You guys have changed my life, and for sure, I will be back!’”
Santa Clara City Library
Santa Clara City Library is partnering with organizations that promote equity in the outdoors to provide inclusive presentations, workshops and guided hikes. The library is inviting naturalists and scientists from the Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences at Santa Clara University to deliver research-based presentations on ethical and sustainable engagement with the outdoors. It is also circulating hiking backpacks and more expensive outdoor items, such as trekking poles and bear canisters.
“Some great comments we've gotten from our circulating items survey include ‘What a fantastic service! We are so grateful to be able to use these outdoors resources. This access helps foster an appreciation of the outdoors and also provide a sustainable means of providing commonly used outdoors resources to those who may otherwise be unable to afford these experiences.’ ‘I think this is a fantastic addition to the resources the library provides to the community. Financial barriers to things like safely enjoying the outdoors are significantly lessened by the library providing access to things like park passes, bear canisters, trekking poles, etc. Awesome idea!’"
Tulare County Library
Tulare County Library's Park Pass Program focuses on Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, the only state park in Tulare County. Library programs are scheduled before planned park celebrations and include story times with park interpreters, as well as a pop-up library at the park during celebrations.
“The Library’s Pop-Up Library attended October’s Allensworth celebration to inform the public about the parks pass program, library services and giveaway books that celebrate African Americans. The Pop Up was welcome with open arms! Over 60 people came up to our booth to gather information about the parks pass program and library services. The book giveaway spoke to those attending the celebration. Many came up to the table and would say things like ‘I like this one and this one’ or ‘This is perfect. I was looking to purchase this one for my child’s home library.’ Others literally jumped for joy, because they were represented and reflected in the books that we were giving away.’”
To learn more about grantees, please contact Lisa at lisa.nowlain@library.ca.gov.
 Flyer promoting 2022 event by grant recipient National City Public Library.
California State Parks Encourages Californians to Invest More Time in Outdoors on Earth Day
Story from: Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division
 Saturday, April 22, is Earth Day and what better way to celebrate it than by visiting the outdoors and learning how you can help protect natural and cultural resources. In the spirit of this year's Earth Day theme to invest in our planet, State Parks is encouraging all Californians to invest a little more time to the outdoors. California has over 200 state parks and beaches that can be enjoyed this Earth Day and year-round, and State Parks encourages all to go on a hike, walk among the giant sequoias and redwoods, discover the waterfalls along the trails, get a glimpse of the wildlife or simply enjoy the breathtaking views along the coastline or mountains.
The public will be able to participate in activities at several state parks tomorrow, including cleanups at Carpinteria State Beach and Old Town San Diego State Historic Park (SHP) and a BioBlitz at Castle Rock State Park (SP). If you cannot head outdoors, join us for a special virtual event, as staff will be livestreaming from Calaveras Big Trees, Mount Tamalpais and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks for a program called “Small Actions, BIG TREES: The Story of the Coast Redwood and Giant Sequoia.”
A list of statewide events for departments under the California Natural Resources Agency is also available online at resources.ca.gov/EarthDay2023.
Here are some in-person and virtual Earth Day events being held at state park units:
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Earth Day at Los Angeles SHP, Saturday, April 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers will learn about monarch butterfly conservation and the role of native plants in their survival. We will plant native milkweed and other pollinator-supporter plants and use hand tools to clear the area of weeds. After the plants are installed, groups will work together to water and mulch the planting beds. Staff will host family-friendly art and educational activities that allow volunteers to learn more about pollinators. All ages welcome.
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Earth Day Cleanup at Old Town San Diego SHP, Saturday, April 22, from 9 a.m. to noon. Help keep the historic park clean and learn how you can positively impact the San Diego Watershed.
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Climate Action Workday at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area, Saturday, April 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers will help with maintenance projects to prevent erosion and build wildfire resiliency in the park. To reduce wildfire risk, volunteers will replace split-rail fencing to prevent vehicles from driving off-road into dry grass. A separate group will help plant native trees and spread mulch in the Meadows Cove day-use area.
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Beach Cleanup at Carpinteria State Beach, Saturday, April 22, from 9 a.m. to noon. Celebrate Earth Day by helping keep your beautiful beach clean with a coastal cleanup. Participants can bring a bucket and gloves, or you can borrow some to clean up the pollution at the beach. All ages are welcome, and kids can also earn a Junior Ranger badge.
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Earth Day BioBlitz at Castle Rock State Park, Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. What better way to celebrate Earth Day than by surveying your favorite park to discover as many different critters and plants as you can for community science? Don’t know the trails, or would just like some company? Docents will guide you to the best spots in the park. Meet for the bio-briefing at the Kirkwood Entrance parking lot, then hit the trails and start exploring. Bring something to document your findings—phone or tablet, camera, voice recorder, notebook or sketchbook. All ages welcome. Free event; however, the vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 291-8273 or visit parks.ca.gov/CastleRock. Event made possible by the Portola and Castle Rock Foundation and State Parks.
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Small Actions, BIG TREES: The Story of Coast Redwood and Giant Sequoia Forests (Virtual), Saturday, April 22, at 2:30 p.m. Join this livestream from the Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students (PORTS) Program YouTube channel, as staff will be streaming live from Calaveras Big Trees, Mount Tamalpais and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks, discussing the history behind these amazing forests and what you can do now to protect them.
You can find additional events and ways to recreate responsibly in the department’s Earth Day press release.
 Click here to register for the "Small Actions, BIG TREES: The Story of Coast Redwood and Giant Sequoia Forests" PORTScast on Saturday, April 22, at 2:30 p.m.
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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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
 IN-PERSON RECRUITMENT EVENT
Careers at California State Parks: In-Person Hiring Info Session: May 11, 2023, 2 to 4 p.m.: Learn how to jump-start your career and work at one of the 280 California state parks. The Parks Recruitment Team will teach you how to create a CalCareers account and apply for the jobs that interest you. We offer opportunities in Law Enforcement, Administration, Communications, Facilities and Maintenance, and many more. Click here for more details.
Visit the Recruitment Events Monthly Calendar to find out when the Parks Recruitment Team will be at an event near you.
JOB SPOTLIGHTS
State Park Interpreter I – Apply by April 23, 2023: We are hiring a State Park Interpreter I at Los Encinos State Historic Park (SHP). This position will be responsible for the creation of the Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students Program and Summer Learning Program. The State Park Interpreter I will work with California’s K-12 education community to enhance digital engagement and in-person school group interpretation opportunities at Los Encinos SHP and surrounding areas of Angeles District park units. Click here for more details.
Associate Personnel Analyst – Apply by April 24, 2023: The Associate Personnel Analyst is responsible for supporting special projects, including Human Resources Information System implementations, developing plans and programs, and assisting with compliance reviews. Click here for more details.
Information Technology Specialist I – Apply by April 26, 2023: We are hiring an Information Technology Specialist at our headquarters in Sacramento. This position will work on Technology Recovery, Privacy Program and Information Security milestones for the department's 280 locations and will administer program compliance with a focus on developing technical documentation for business continuity. Click here for more details.
Seasonal/Part-Time: Multiple Opportunities – Apply-by dates vary: 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, Guide Trainee or Forestry Aide openings today. Click here for more information.
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
State Park Peace Officer Cadet (Ranger and Lifeguard) – Apply by June 10, 2023: We are currently accepting applications for the State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) Cadet exam. This is the first step toward acceptance to the SPPO Cadet Academy. In the cadet academy, you will learn everything you need to know to become an SPPO Ranger or Lifeguard. You will learn about law enforcement, public safety, natural and cultural resource protection, education, interpretation, program management and much more. Click here for more information.
Laborer – Continuous: Our California State Parks Laborers work on park restoration projects and help keep our parks safe and operational for all to enjoy. If you are interested in working outdoors and making a difference, apply for this exciting opportunity. The file-in-person locations and dates can be found in the assessment bulletin. Click here for more information.
Supervisor, Cultural Resources Program – Apply by April 24, 2023: If you have experience as a Senior State Archeologist or State Historian III, or experience in the implementation of cultural resource management, planning and protection programs, apply for the Cultural Resources Program Supervisor assessment. Click here for more information.
Communications Operator – Continuous: Our California State Parks Communications Operators are emergency dispatchers who monitor emergency communications systems, answer calls for service, log incidents and dispatch field units to emergencies. Apply to take the Communications Operator assessment today and begin your parks career in this exciting and rewarding opportunity. Click here for more information.
Park and Recreation Specialist Series – Continuous: The Park and Recreation Specialist Series assessments are now available online. From creating new outdoor parks in California communities to leading outdoor recreation programs, the opportunities are endless. From entry-level to management, explore our Park and Recreation Specialist Series assessments today. Click here for more information.
State Park Interpreter I, II and III – The State Park Interpreter I, II and III assessments have been rereleased and are available online. State Park Interpreters help develop interactive and educational programs to teach the rich history of California. Click here for more information.
EMPLOYMENT TIP
Be an action star! Use action words when creating your resume to shine a light on your experience.
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!
New Research Writer Andreas Agocs Joins Communications and Marketing Division
Story and photo from: Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division
 Andreas standing in the lobby of the California Statewide Museum Collections Center in McClellan, California.
Andreas Agocs recently joined the Communications and Marketing Division as a research writer to assist with the department’s publications and research needs.
Andreas comes to the department with a background as a historian, who has published for both academic and general audiences. He taught at the University of the Pacific, where his classes included a course on California’s culture and environment that positioned the state in a global context.
In addition to his research and teaching background, Andreas has experience as a technical editor for an environmental consulting firm in Sacramento. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, reading and seeking out beauty in unexpected places.
At State Parks, Andreas looks forward to writing about aspects of the department’s history and enriching our understanding of California’s cultural and natural heritage.
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Style time! Here are this week's tips to help spread the word about our departmentwide style guidelines:
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Dual heritage: No hyphen for terms such as “African American,” “Asian American” and “Filipino American.” No hyphen even if used as a modifier; e.g., The Asian American history event is happening next month.
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snowcat: One word.
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breathtaking: One word, no hyphen.
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.
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 McClellan, California
The McClellan facility hosted some of the department K-9s for detection training. A diversity of locations within the facility were used, including office areas, large warehouse spaces and outdoor equipment yards, which provided realistic training scenarios for the teams. The K-9 teams attending are certified in either narcotics, firearms or explosives detection. Special thanks to Museum Curator II Wil Jorae and the rest of the McClellan staff for allowing this training to take place.
Left to right: Martin Gilbertson and K-9 Ivan (Sierra District), Janessa Sederquist and K-9 Oz (Northern Buttes District), Kyle Meza and K-9 Ghost and Tom Cunninghan and K-9 Doc (Central Valley District), Andrew Bampton and K-9 Zuma and Benjamin Ellis and K-9 Jerry (San Luis Obispo Coast District), and Alex Lucero and K-9 Rex (Gold Fields District).
Not pictured: Matt Pasquarella and K-9 Hugo (Captial District) were called to perform an explosives detection sweep during training.
Photo from Mike Gleckler, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 Ishxenta State Park
It was a great day to be out in the forest. We had natural resources staff, a long-term volunteer and members of a county youth development program all working together to protect a Gowen cypress stand in the park. Jon Hubbard (far left) has been volunteering in this park unit for over 25 years and today he got some extra help! Together, they were able to remove many non-native, invasive plants encroaching on this rare stand of federally threatened species.
Photo from Aiden Sarbeck, Monterey District
 Red Rock Canyon State Park
A collage of some of the park’s finest smiling faces. We would like to offer a huge thank you to Red Rock Canyon’s fine volunteers during this Volunteer Appreciation Week!
Photos from Damion Laughlin, Great Basin District
 Millerton State Recreation Area
The Division of Boating and Waterways Inland Boat Operator course at Millerton Lake, with the Central Sierra snowpack in the background.
Photo from Steve Barber, Central Valley District
 Mount San Jacinto State Park
Anaheim Police Department Motor doing their annual mountain ride training decided to pay us a visit. Park staff left to right: Park Maintenance Worker I Mylan McCloria, State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Bill Solylo, Office Technician Janet Desoto and volunteer Chip Bradley.
Photo from Mylan McCloria, Inland Empire District
 Great Valley Grasslands State Park
The Central Valley District wildlife team met a United States Geological Survey crew at the park to look for western spadefoot toad, share knowledge and conduct field training. The toad species is not considered endangered, but it is listed as a species of concern and is under review to be considered as endangered by U.S. Fish and Wildlife. The team got a positive detection that the toad is present in the park. They found a tadpole. The survey crew also stumbled upon some very young coyote pups.
Photos from Delayna Miler and Andrew Collum, Central Valley District
 Donner Memorial State Park
The future looks bright for these newly certified interpretive guides. On Thursday, April 20, Sierra District interpretive staff graduated from a four-day training. The Certified Interpretive Guide training through National Association for Interpretation (NAI) creates a solid foundation for understanding the principles of interpretation and applying them to programs in our parks. Interpreters are now equipped to lead historic walks, mountain bike and kayak tours, guided hikes and much more as we prepare to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors in Sierra District parks this summer.
Congratulations to these graduates (left to right): Adela Pizzaro-Conte (Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park), Katie Sullivan (Lake Sector), Jeremy Lin (Donner Memorial State Park (SP)), Kaytlen Jackson (Lake Sector), Sam Bell (Sierra Gold Sector), Catherine Jones (Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve), Nick Potter (Donner Memorial SP), Cam Dahms (Lake Sector), Paige Haller (Sierra District), Ruger (Donner Memorial SP), Stephanie Ambrosia (NAI Instructor) and Bill Bowness (Donner Memorial SP).
 Calaveras Big Trees State Park
State Park Interpreter I Lillie Oravetz conducts a Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students Program in the snow.
Photo from Nicky Lambert, Office of Grants and Local Services
 D.L. Bliss State Park
Staff after digging out the park's dorm for the summer season. The deck shown is on the second story of the dorm building. We must dig out or melt out from under 8 feet of snow, just to start the park cleanup in the Sierras this spring.
Shovelers (left to right): Park Maintenance Assistant Melina Meyer with puppy Scout; Management Services Technician Shiann Rios, out of the office for some fresh air and exercise; Park Maintenance Assistant Ryan Downey; and Park Maintenance Worker I Javier Gallardo.
Photo from Elizabeth McMillan, Sierra District
 Carrizo Plain National Monument
Director Armando Quintero recently visited Carrizo Plain National Monument. This Bureau of Land Management National Conservation Land, which is just a few hours from Los Angeles, is another great spot to view beautiful wildflowers this season.
For information on state park units with wildflowers, visit www.parks.ca.gov/WildflowerBloom.
Photos from Armando Quintero, State Parks Director
 Old Sacramento State Historic Park
While I was walking to work this morning, I watched a pair of geese enjoying our 1849 scene here in Old Sacramento. Yesterday there were a group of 'tweens rolling down the hill and I WISH I had been able to snap a picture of them; they were having so much fun. So many people and animals enjoy our open green space in Old Sacramento.
Photo from Wendy Sanchez, Capital District
 Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
The heat is on in the desert, and many of the annuals won’t be blooming much longer. Left: a mallow blooming. The flower looks so delicate but the 98 degree temperature didn’t seem to bother it. Right: A section of Palm Canyon, where the brittlebush provided most of the color.
Photos from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 South Yuba River State Park
A Northern California version of the wildflower bloom, featuring foothill poppies, spider lupines and bird's eye gilia.
Photo from Leah Gardner, Natural Resources Division
 Asilomar State Beach
A flower in bloom.
Photo from Steven Ptomey, Great Basin District
 Asilomar State Beach
Flowers in bloom.
Photo from Steven Ptomey, Great Basin District
 Doheny State Beach
Enjoying the amazing view from the day-use area.
Photo from Daryl Lucarelli, Orange Coast District
 Asilomar State Beach
The Conference Grounds sign.
Photo from Steven Ptomey, Great Basin District
 Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek before and after a rainstorm in March.
Photos from R.J. Van Sant, Angeles District
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Parks Employee Wellness Challenge: ‘Opt for the Outdoors’
Story and photo from: Brooke Haugen, Risk Management Division
 I spotted this cute little egg (which appeared to be a disposable type, made of cardboard) in a tree overlooking Lake Natoma in Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. A good reminder to take a minute, enjoy your surroundings and be present. Had I not stopped to enjoy the view, I would have completely missed this!
So far, for the month of April, State Parks employees have had an opportunity to participate in the first-ever Employee Wellness Challenge, which will run through the remainder of this month. To kick things off, we decided to go with the theme “Opt for the Outdoors” to encourage people to spend intentional time outdoors.
Each week, we have been providing reminders of all the great ways that being outdoors benefits our health and overall well-being. This has been giving us a glimpse into what our employees are doing throughout the state.
To keep things interesting, we are having our department districts and park units compete head-to-head. Currently, here are the top three: Third place is Oceano Dunes District, second place is Bay Area District and first place is Northern Buttes District. So far, staff have compiled a total of 5,219 hours of time outside—that’s over 217 days! Check back at the end of the month to see just how many hours we land.
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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April 17, 2023
April 19, 2023
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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.
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