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 June 16, 2023
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 Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
State Natural Reserve
Photo title: "Flowers Fields and Snowy Hills"
Photo represents "Spring Awakening" because: “This spring season was a wild one, with record-breaking precipitation and unusual temperature swings. While the Poppy Reserve never had a true 'superbloom,' small patches did explode with color early on, providing a great contrast in this photo, with bright flowers in the foreground and snowy mountains in the distance.”
Date taken: March 25, 2023
Photo by: Matthew Williams, Great Basin District. Matthew is a supervising state park peace officer in the Mojave Sector and has been with State Parks for 15 years. Matthew has two photos selected in this contest. See photo below, featuring a chuckwalla.
 Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Photo title: "A Lone Lupine Among Goldfields"
Photo represents "Spring Awakening" because: “Wildflowers make spring wonderful. For me there is nothing better than finding a different wildflower in a field of another wildflower. The lone lupine rising above the goldfields is one of those scenes that brings me joy when I see it. That’s what spring is about to me, the joy of seeing old friends when the wildflowers bloom. The wildflowers are something I look forward to every year.”
Date taken: May 2023
Photo by: Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District. Michele is a state park interpreter at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and has been with the department for eight years. She has also been a previous winner of our photo contests.
 Columbia State Historic Park
Photo title: "Flame Skimmer Brightens Columbia"
Photo represents "Spring Awakening" because: “This vibrantly colored flame skimmer looked like a flower in clear contrast against the green spring grass, as it perched above a seasonal stream. Spring is colorful and lively. Insects make a terrific symbol of leaving winter behind and transitioning into warmer months.”
Date taken: June 5, 2023
Photo by: Amber Sprock, Central Valley District. Amber is a park and recreation specialist (the district’s public information office/marketing director). She has been with the department for 16 years.
 Providence Mountains State Recreation Area
Photo title: "No Good Deed Goes Unpunished"
Photo represents "Spring Awakening" because: “After the preceding wet winter, the Mojave Desert has awoken, and it is feeling pretty rowdy. So much winter precipitation has given rise to an impressive amount of spring plant growth, which translated into a bumper crop of animals. With the local wildlife so abundant, we have been shepherding all sorts of animals off the roads. I stopped to help encourage this gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer) to get out of traffic. 'No good deed goes unpunished' they say, and this reptile was not to be moved. It hissed loudly at me for some time (stay tuned for the video) until I abandoned my shepherding. How rude. This individual was about 4-feet long, but much shorter in patience.”
Note: Photo was taken from a distance with wide lens camera.
Date taken: May 23, 2023
Photo by: Andrew Fitzpatrick, Inland Empire District. Andrew is a state park interpreter I and has been with the department 14.333 years. He took two of the top photos for the contest and has been a previous winner of our photo contests.
 Providence Mountains State Recreation Area
Photo title: "Sky Island Sunrise"
Photo represents "Spring Awakening" because: “Deserts have a serious PR problem: Most people imagine them as empty wastelands. While there are some wasteland-esque areas in deserts, deserts are definitely not empty, but full of wildlife. This is especially true here in the Providence Mountains, which rise to over 7,000-feet above sea level. The elevation of desert mountains allows them to stay cooler and attract and hold more moisture from precipitation. On these cooler and wetter heights, plants and animals that normally wouldn’t be able to survive in the hot flats below can continue to exist, albeit isolated from others of their species by the ocean of less hospitable desert around them. In effect, these mountains become ecological islands. The canyons here allow visitors entry into this 'sky island,' which was especially vibrant with an impressive diversity of plants this spring.”
Date taken: April 20, 2023
Photo by: Andrew Fitzpatrick, Inland Empire District. This is the second photo he took selected for this contest. See gophersnake above.
 Red Rock Canyon State Park
Photo title: "Smiling Sauromalus"
Photo represents "Spring Awakening" because: “Chuckwalla lizards (Sauromalus ater) are a generally skittish reptile that likes to hide in rock crevices and wedge themselves in, making it difficult for predators to get to them. This brightly colored male was more interested in eating the few remaining flowers of late spring and head bobbing to impress a mate, than he was interested in my presence.”
Date taken: May 28, 2023
Photo by: Matthew Williams, Great Basin District. This the second photo selected in the contest from Matthew. See photo above from the Poppy Reserve.
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Park Leaders Kick Off California State Parks Week by 'Trying Something New'
Story from: Adeline Yee, Communications and Marketing Division
 Top: Group photo of Park leaders, State Parks staff and partners at Black Miners Bar, Folsom Lake SRA on Wednesday, June 14. Bottom left (left to right): Brandy Ventittelli, Shadow Glen Family Stables; Sam Hodder, president and CEO of Save the Redwoods League; Terry Howard, Shadow Glen Family Stables; Rachel Norton, executive director of California State Parks Foundation; and State Parks Director Armando Quintero. Bottom right: Rachel's horse did not want to leave the water and created a lot of laughs. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
The second annual California State Parks Week kicked off on Wednesday, June 14, with a fun array of recreational activities at Black Miners Bar, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area (SRA). The theme was “trying something new” and so, park leaders and media invited did just that.
State Parks Director Armando Quintero, President and CEO of Save the Redwoods League Sam Hodder and California State Parks Foundation Executive Director Rachel Norton arrived bright and early for action. First up was horseback riding. Thanks to horses provided by Shadow Glen Family Stables, the park leaders took a trot around the day-use area and on the beach. Rachel’s horse kicked up quite a bit of water and did not seem to want to move on. But who can blame the horse? The weather was perfect for a dip in the water.
Next up was kayaking. Armando brought his own kayak and wore his Mandalorian helmet for fun since his nickname is “Mando.” The other kayaks were provided by Lake Natoma Paddle Rental.
Finally, the activities finished off with paddleboarding and all three park leaders paddled like pros. California State University, Sacramento, (CSUS) Aquatic Center provided the paddleboards and safety tips. The Division of Boating and Waterways also handed out free life jackets to the public. In between all this activity, there were five different media outlets doing live and recorded interviews to help spread the word about State Parks Week.
Save the Redwoods League, the California State Parks Foundation and Parks California were all a huge part of this kickoff event and others planned for State Parks Week.
But this event could not have happened without Gold Fields District Superintendent Barry Smith, Deputy District Superintendent Steve Hilton and all their staff and partners in the district. They set up the entire area, provided the activities and made sure it was a fantastic day.
Special thanks to our participating partners and State Parks staff members:
- Lake Natoma Paddle Rental – Dan Crandall
- Shadow Glen Family Stables – Terry Howard
- CSUS Aquatic Center – Cindi and Brian Dulgar
- Division of Boating and Waterways – Melissa Miranda
- Friends of Lakes Folsom and Natoma – Jim Casio
- Friends of Folsom Powerhouse Association – Scott Hayes
- Gold Discovery Parks Association – Mike Judd/Denise Karapinar
- Gold Fields District/Folsom Lake SRA Interpretation – Devin Swartwood/Nicole Barden
- Aquatic Safety – Ryan Steele
- Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area – Peter Jones/Joleen Ossello
There are more than 180 events—in-person and virtual—happening statewide for California State Parks Week, June 14-18. Click here to watch a video of Director Quintero providing details about State Parks Week. To find an event near you, visit CAStateParksWeek.org.
Governor Gavin Newsom on Thursday, June 15, issued a proclamation declaring June 14-18, as “California State Parks Week.” Click here to read the proclamation.
 Top: Sam Hodder and Rachel Norton kayaking in Lake Natoma. Left middle: Armando Quintero, Sam Hodder and Rachel Norton paddleboarding. Bottom left: Digital Content Analyst Brittani Peterson was game for kayaking, too. Bottom middle: Sam Hodder, Rachel Norton and Armando Quintero after stand-up paddleboarding. Right middle: The "Mandalorian" was spotted kayaking as well! Bottom right: ABC10's John Bartell interviewing Armando Quintero. Photos from Adeline Yee and Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Top left: KCRA reporter Mike Teselle interviewing Armando Quintero about State Parks Week. Top middle: KCBS radio reporter Kris Ankarlo interviews Armando on horseback. It was Kris' first time on a horse and also stand-up paddleboarding, too! Top right: Good Day Sacramento reporter Jordan Segundo doing a live shot with Armando. Bottom left: Segundo also interviewed DBW's Melissa Miranda about water safety and the free personal floatation device giveaway. Bottom middle: Kris Ankarlo interviewing Sam Hodder. Bottom right: FOX40 reporter Gary Gelfand doing a live shot with Armando. Photos from Adeline Yee, Communications and Marketing Division.
Theme for Summer Photo Contest: 'The Art of Nature'
Story from: Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division
 A close-up of lupine, with contrast of green and mountains in the foreground, at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. Photo from California State Parks.
The “Spring Awakening” photo contest was a huge success, with staff sending some of their best photos, making it very difficult for us to decide on the top photos. We received over 70 entries showcasing the wonderful views spring brings to the 280 state parks. The top photos (see above) showered us with stunning views of wildflowers, with snow in the background and the majestic wildlife that resides in the parks. Congratulations to the winners and a big thank you to everyone who submitted photos. We always appreciate your participation in our photo contest and welcome more to participate in the upcoming contests.
The top photos will be shared next week (June 19–25) on California State Parks' social media accounts (Instagram, Facebook and Twitter). Be sure to follow us and share the amazing photos your colleagues took for the “Spring Awakening” photo contest.
For the next photo contest, we want you to show your artsy side for “The Art of Nature” contest. With 280 state parks, there are plenty of ways to showcase the art of nature, whether it is a spectacular sunset or sunrise, a fun activity at a park or wildlife roaming the parks. Your photos can be close-ups, angles, patterns, motion or other unique perspectives of the natural, cultural or historic resources in California's State Park System. Your photos can also be of staff doing their job in nature. Whatever you capture in your photos, have fun and bring out your creative side.
“The Art of Nature” photo contest will run from June 21 through Sept. 6, 2023. As a friendly reminder, if your photos include people who are non-State Parks employees or volunteers, 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 photo and the name of the state park where it was taken. The Communications and Marketing team will announce the top five photos in late September 2023. 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 “The Art of Nature.”
- Photos must be taken between June 21 and Sept. 6, 2023.
- Photos with images of non-State Parks staff must include a photo Visual Media Consent form (DPR 993).
- Photos can be taken at any of California’s 280 state parks or any State Parks office.
- Only State Parks 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 (members of which are not eligible to participate in the contest).
- Photo images should be a minimum of 1920×2400 ppi.
If you have any questions on the contest, please send an email to the Weekly Digest. Have any ideas for the fall photo contest? Let us know your suggestions!
 Sunset rays through the clouds over Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. Photo from California State Parks.
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Los Angeles County Library’s TikTok Video on California State Library Parks Pass Goes Viral
Story from: Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division, and Michelle Gibson, Los Angeles County Library
Click here or above to watch the TikTok video with Park Aide Rick McClung introducing the California State Library Parks Pass. The video has received more than 3.7 million views so far.
The Los Angeles County Library posted a TikTok video promoting the California State Library Parks Pass on Monday, June 5, and it has gone viral, with over 3.7 million views just on TikTok alone so far.
Los Angeles County Library Social Media Coordinator Michelle Gibson visited Chino Hills State Park and asked Park Aide Rick McClung, working at the kiosk, if he could be filmed as they used the pass to get into the park. Rick happily agreed and, without a script, provided information about how the pass works. The public loved the video!
In addition to the more than 3.7 million views on TikTok, the video has also received more than 1.4 million views on Instagram. Between the two posts, the video has received over 400,000 "likes," has been shared over 120,000 times and has been saved by almost 60,000 people.
Michelle said that Rick was wonderful and was kind enough to allow her to record the video as he scanned the pass. She said, “He was awesome, and our TikTok video is getting several comments about what a wonderful employee he is and how everyone should strive for that level of customer service.”
Some of the comments received about the video include “Love the pass! Been to Chino Hills, and he is like the nicest, friendliest and most helpful park ranger. That ranger is awesome!!!!!!” and “I always feel like park rangers are the happiest people!"
Thank you to the LA County Library for sharing the video. If you have not heard what all the buzz is about, learn more about the California State Library Parks Pass here.
FamCamp Returns to Candlestick Point State Recreation Area After Nearly 30 Years
Story and photos from: Katie Freehling, Office of Community Involvement
 Left: Parks California Community Engagement Coordinator Veronica Silva-Miranda, and State Parks Interpreter Nick Fowlks receive the Candlestick Point SRA FamCamp trailer with enthusiasm. Top right: One of the FamCamp sites. Bottom right: View of the San Francisco Bay from the FamCamp site.
Life often has a way of bringing us back to where we started. In 1994, Carol Nelson and Jack Shu launched FamCamp, a program that provides camp sites and basic camping equipment for underserved communities. Candlestick Point State Recreation Area (SRA), where Nelson served as superintendent, was one of the flagship FamCamp sites. Nelson and Shu dreamed of increasing access to the great outdoors and providing opportunities for all Californians to build meaningful connections to nature. Today their legacy lives on and their vision comes full circle, as we relaunch FamCamp at Candlestick Point SRA. Located in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco, the park offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and city skyline.
Last month, the Office of Community Involvement team rolled into San Francisco with a brand-new trailer in tow. The trailer includes tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, stoves, lanterns and other basic camping gear for groups of up to 30 people.
The team at Candlestick Point welcomed us with open arms to receive the trailer and provide a tour of the park and FamCamp site.
The partnership between the Office of Community Involvement, Candlestick Point SRA and Parks California is an example of how intentional collaboration and creative solutions can increase access to outdoor experiences for all Californians. We cannot wait to see how lives will be transformed as the park and community organizations begin to host FamCamp trips.
Candlestick Point SRA, in partnership with California State Parks Foundation (CSPF) and Parks California, will host the first of many trips on June 22-23. Pride Learn-to-Camp invites the LGBTQ+ community, their families and their allies to connect with each other, create community and experience the great outdoors in a safe and inclusive environment. To learn more about this event, contact candlestick@ports-ca.us or call (415) 300-5860.
FamCamp is managed by the Office of Community Involvement and is currently available at 14 California state parks. The program has expanded to five new parks this year, including Sue-meg State Park (SP), Millerton Lake SRA, Cuyamaca Rancho SP and Anza-Borrego Desert SP, with Candlestick Point SRA as the newest location. The program is available to certified community organizations and public agencies. To learn more about how to become certified, contact us at OCI@parks.ca.gov or visit our webpage.
54th Annual Hangtown Motocross Classic Event at Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area
Story from: Joleen Ossello, Gold Fields District
 Professional riders on the track at the 54th Annual Hangtown Motocross Classic at Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area on Saturday, June 3. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
Saturday, June 3, marked the 54th Annual Hangtown Motocross Classic at Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area (PCSVRA). The national event, put on by the Dirt Diggers North Motorcycle Club (DDNMC) along with MX Sports Pro Motocross and Carson City Motorsports, has been held at the park for over 40 years and attracts competitors and fans from all over the nation. This year, the event was televised to over 30 countries, with over 1 million local TV viewers and an estimated 20,000 people—including over 1,000 overnight campers—attending in person. It truly is a spectacular event that showcases what off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation and sports competition are all about.
Over the course of four days, 30 staff from Gold Fields District (PCSVRA, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area [SRA], Auburn SRA, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park), the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division, Carnegie SVRA, Strategic Planning and Recreation Services Division and the Statewide Bond Office assisted with the State Parks OHV interpretative outreach “super booth.” Activities included a Tread Lightly!-themed Junior Ranger Program, opportunities to make your own commemorative event button, motorcycle sound testing demonstrations and a comparison of local carnivorous predators using animal mounts on display. Approximately 1,200 eventgoers stopped by, many of them comparing the bobcat and coyote size to their own domestic pets. Booth information showcased the park’s Road and Trail Management Plan Public Survey, the Off-Highway Vehicle Access Project and the upcoming California State Parks Week.
Eighteen rangers from Gold Fields District, Santa Cruz District, San Luis Reservoir K-9, Capital District K-9, Millerton Lake SRA and OHMVR Division looked out for the safety of event participants, spectators and staff. They were assisted by two fire management team members with a Type 6 fire rig from Santa Cruz to watch for grass fires and to help with landing zone operations of the REACH Air Ambulance on site. The event was managed by a unified command system, consisting of staff from the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, California Highway Patrol, Placer County Sheriff Search and Rescue OHV Unit, Alpha One Ambulance Service, Citi Guard (interior security), Alpine Star Mobile Medical Unit, DDNMC and California State Parks.
Sixteen maintenance staff of all specialties within the Gold Fields District included heavy equipment operators, environmental resources and trails crew, who played an integral part in preparing the park before and ensuring smooth operations during the event. They worked hard to prep the roads and access systems within the park by grading and rolling for the annual Dust-Off application, to maintain facilities and water treatment plant operations, and to hang the brand-new park welcome banners for the event.
Weeks of hard work are required to make an event like this successful, and we could not have done it without the tireless efforts of all the staff and volunteers involved. A big thank you to all who helped with the event. We look forward to doing it again next year! For more photos, visit us @prairiecitysvra on Instagram and Facebook.
 Top: State Parks staff at the interpretation booth. Middle left: Supervising Ranger and Incident Commander Tony Guzman worked his final Hangtown Motocross Classic after more than 20 years. Bottom left: Admin Chief Brandy Greene and Admin Officer I Carissa Barnett make commemorative buttons for visitors while Permanent Maintenance Worker II Steve Kische arranges the booth information. Middle: State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) Alex Robertson on patrol with the "Zero" electric motorcycle. RIght middle: SPPO Matt Pasquarella with K-9 Hugo on patrol. Bottom right (left to right): Prairie City Sector Manager Peter Jones, Environmental Scientists Taylor Espenshade and McKenzie Boring, Park Aides Jessica Congleton, Crystal Meleen and Garrison Gable along with K-9 Doc the Bomb Dog. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division; Joleen Ossello, Gold Fields District; and Thomas Cunningham, Central Valley District.
California State Park Adventure Pass Goes Live to Explore Calaveras Big Trees State Park on June 22
Story from: Daniel Williford, Interpretation and Education Division
 Get ready for another Adventure Pass Exploration Live! livestream event aimed to educate fourth graders, their families and the public about the California State Park Adventure Pass. This month we travel to Calaveras Big Tress State Park on Thursday, June 22, at noon, and also find out what an Adventure Pass user can do at this special place where the Stanislaus River runs through this incredible forest.
This event is our sixth installment of our monthly livestream series and can be viewed on both the State Parks’ Facebook page and the Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students Program Facebook page.
The Adventure Pass Exploration Live! event will also share what the Adventure Pass is and how to get one, along with a call to action for fourth graders to get the Adventure Pass and explore the Adventure Pass parks throughout their fourth grade year. It is also a reminder for 2022-23 fourth graders that their Adventure Pass is valid throughout the summer until Aug. 31, 2023.
Please join us on this adventure to Calaveras Big Trees State Park!
'Walk Into Wellness' Events Happening at Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
Story and photo from: Amanda Sellers, Northern Buttes District
 Butterflies at Loafer Creek Day-Use Area at Lake Oroville State Recreation Area were used as part of the "Walk Into Wellness" nature walks.
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area is hosting “Walk Into Wellness,” a new series of walks in nature to promote health and wellness. These walks focus on calming reflections and enlightening exercises while observing the beauty in nature.
Following a discussion of how stress affects our health and how trauma impacts our ability to maintain optimal wellness, participants are guided through a stroll in various park units. Several self-care opportunities, such as deep breathing, nature appreciation, meditative moments, aromatherapy and gratitude sharing, are provided along the walk. Participants comment on how they need these quiet moments in nature.
The most recent Walk into Wellness occurred at Loafer Creek Day-Use Area in Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. I brought along a pavilion of butterflies and shared the metaphor of going through different phases in life. The participants reflected on their own changes and challenges in life, and how learning to destress, relax and get inspired is necessary to carry us forward in a positive manner.
The butterflies will be released in a ceremony this Sunday, June 18, at the North Forebay to celebrate California State Parks Week in the “Milkweed and Monarchs, an Adventure in Parks special event. This special event is a partnership with the Northern Buttes District Ide Adobe, Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park and Lake Oroville, thanks to a generous grant from the California State Parks Foundation.
The next "Walk Into Wellness" event will be on Sunday, July 16, at 8 a.m., at Bidwell Canyon in Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. For more information, please call (530) 538-2200.
Deceased Dolphin Found at San Buenaventura State Beach
Story from: Sebastian Louda, Channel Coast District
Lifeguards at San Buenaventura State Beach in the Channel Coast District were called to reports of a beached dolphin around Lifeguard Tower 6 on Saturday, June 10. Seasonal Lifeguard II Eric Fedde and I arrived on the scene and found one recently deceased dolphin on the sand. We notified the Channel Islands Marine Wildlife Institute (CIMWI), which sent out a marine biologist from the Channel Islands Cetacean Institute.
The biologist performed a necropsy on the dolphin and discovered it had been pregnant with a baby dolphin that was due for imminent delivery. The biologist stated the dolphin most likely died of domoic acid poisoning. Domoic acid is produced in offshore algae blooms (red tide) and bioaccumulates as it moves up the food chain to the largest marine mammals—seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises. It causes irreversible neurological damage in these animals, resulting in seizures, disorientation, aggressive behavior and ultimately death. Seals and sea lions will exhibit "crowning" behavior with their neck curving upwards to the sky.
Algae blooms are a natural occurrence; however, they are likely exasperated by agricultural runoff from farms upriver. There is no treatment for affected animals beyond feeding them fish unaffected by the acid and letting their own bodies detox. Recovered animals are often unable to be rereleased into the wild, as they have suffered neurological damage inhibiting them from foraging, hunting and surviving in the wild.
Since the incident, lifeguards at Channel Coast District beaches have responded to five other marine mammals in distress because of domoic acid poisoning. If an animal in distress is spotted, please contact CIMWI and they will send a volunteer to assess the animal for capture or monitoring.
Division of Boating and Waterways Participates in 'Get the Scoop With Sheriff Coop' Event
Story from: Joanna Andrade, Division of Boating and Waterways
 Top photo (left to right): Deputy J. Guibord with Sacramento County Sheriff's Department, Samm Teixeira and Joanna Andrew with DBW and Deputy M. Keegan with Sacramento County Sheriff's Department. Bottom photos: Samm Teixeira fits children with new life jackets at the event.
“Get the Scoop with Sheriff Coop” is a series of three free family events hosted by the Sacramento County Sherriff's Office. The events feature live and static displays of current and past law enforcement vehicles and specialty units, operations, a free barbecue lunch, department recruiters, face painting, ice cream, a bounce house, fun demonstrations and so much more.
It is an opportunity for the public to engage with local law enforcement in a positive way. Sacramento County Sheriff Marine Patrol Unit was one of the featured law enforcement units at the event. On Sunday, June 4, Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) staff attended this event at Rosemont Community Park, working alongside the marine patrol unit to distribute 100 life jackets and educate the public on safe boating practices. This event is mutually beneficial for both DBW and law enforcement and showcases positive outreach and education on safe boating and water recreation.
Here are upcoming dates for more “Get the Scoop with Sheriff Coop” events:
- Sunday, July 16, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., at Antelope Community Park, in Antelope, California
- Sunday, August 13, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., at Rutter Parks, in Sacramento
Inland Empire District Attends San Bernardino County Family Fish and Wildlife Festival at Prado Regional Park
Story and photo from: Teri Pope, Inland Empire District
 Interpreter II and District K12 Access/Parks Online Resources Teachers and Students Coordinator Ian Bernstein runs the Inland Empire District booth at the San Bernardino County Family Fish and Wildlife Festival on Saturday, June 10.
Interpretive staff from the Inland Empire District were delighted to attend the second annual San Bernardino County Family Fish and Wildlife Festival on Saturday, June 10. The event was held at Prado Regional Park in Chino, California, which is so close to Chino Hills State Park, that they are nearly adjoining.
Prado Park is the perfect location for such an event since it has facilities for fishing, archery, shooting, equestrian activities, camping and hiking. All those activities, and many more, were represented in the booths at the festival.
The weather for the day was unseasonably cool, with typical morning overcast—the famous “June gloom"—which probably helped attendance for the event. Many multigenerational families were spotted in the diverse crowd. All seemed to be having a great time!
State Parks’ booth had kid’s activities, like a food web puzzle, as well as California trivia, and information about all six parks in the Inland Empire District. The event was attended by nearly 1,000 people, with over 600 of them visiting our booth. Many were excited to learn about the upcoming California State Parks Week activities widespread across the district. Several visitors commented on the diversity of program offerings in our parks and are making plans to visit them soon.
Honored Elders Day Event Held at State Indian Museum State Historic Park
Story and photos from: Ileana Maestas, Capital District
 Left to right: Groundskeeper Juan Nunez, Maintenance Aide Jesus Rios, Park Interpretive Specialist Theresa Havelka and Docent Al Striplin (Amah Mutsun Ohlone and Aztec).
Honored Elders Day was held Saturday, June 3, on the grounds of the State Indian Museum State Historic Park (SHP), in Sacramento.
This event, which has been held annually for 44 years, brings together Native American elders and their families to share a meal, engage with the community and celebrate their many contributions.
Beginning in February, Capital District staff and the Native Planning Committee worked together to put on this event. Traditional dance groups (Tribal protocols limit photography of dance groups), California Indian vendors and Tribal leaders participate to make this the largest affair of the year at the State Indian Museum SHP. Capital District staff and docents work together to ensure a terrific celebration.
 Top left (left to right): District Interpreter Alison Parks, Interpreter I Devin McCutchen and Park Interpretive Specialist Theresa Havelka. Top right: Park Aide Mike Ramirez (Konkow Maidu) standing next to an image of a past Honored Elders Day event that his grandmother attended. Bottom right: Docent Jean Marcy (left) and Park Aide Teresa LaRose (Pomo). Bottom left: Honored Elders Day vendors.
 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
 JOB SPOTLIGHTS
State Park Interpreter I (Community Engagement Interpreter) – Apply by June 16, 2023: Today is the last day to apply! In this dynamic position, located at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area, you will not only conduct interpreter programs and engage the community within and around the area, but you will create culturally relevant, interpretive and environmental programming that integrates both assets and experiences of the audience. In addition, you will assist the Bay Area District, Northern Service Center and headquarters staff on special interpretive and site development projects. Click here for more information.
Associate Personnel Specialist – Apply by June 18, 2023: Classification and Hiring is hiring! We need your customer service skills to build a diverse and dynamic workforce. Review and analyze electronic Requests for Personnel Action (RPA) packages via eRPA system and other personnel action documents. Take the assessment and apply! Click here for more information.
State Park Peace Officer (Ranger): Canine Handler – Apply by June 19, 2023: Patrol the magnificent Hearst Castle, beaches, campgrounds and visitor center areas with your loyal and trusted partner. You must meet the minimum qualifications established by the Department of Human Resources AND either be currently eligible, or eligible for reinstatement, as a PC 830.2, California State Peace Officer. Click here for more information.
State Park Interpreter I (Permanent Intermittent) – Apply by June 21, 2023: Receive permanent status and work part-time. Lead a team of seasonal staff to gather, present and interpret information for the North Coast Redwoods District at Sue-meg Village. Take the assessment and apply! Click here for more information.
Park Maintenance Worker I – Apply by June 28, 2023: This job is located at beautiful Huntington State Beach. Perform repairs to various park facilities and structures with accepted techniques in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting, masonry and roofing maintenance. Click here for more information.
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, Archeologist Specialist, Guide Trainee or Forestry Aide openings today. Click here for more information.
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Associate Civil Engineer – Apply by June 26, 2023: Associate Civil Engineers plan and direct the design for a variety of engineering projects. You need a valid certificate of registration as a civil engineer and three years of experience to qualify. Click here for more information.
Research Writer – Apply by June 30, 2023: This exam is hosted by the Department of Water Resources. Research Writers assist or complete interpretive writing of technical material for news releases and publications of state agencies. Qualifying experience includes writing of articles newspapers, magazines, trade journals or for radio broadcast or in the writing of technical reports of digests of technical research studies. Click here for more information.
State Park Peace Officer Cadet (Ranger and Lifeguard) - Continuous: Applications for the State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) Cadet exam are now offered on a continuous basis. 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. When applying, you can opt in for electronic notifications. 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 State 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 – Continuous: 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: Not sure if the job you are applying to is right for you or what the job is exactly? Reach out to the contact on the job bulletin and interview the hiring manager. Ask them about particulars in the duty statement and find out who are the subject matter experts you may connect with as well. Then, complete your application as a well-informed candidate.
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!
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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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paddleboard, stand-up paddleboarding: “Paddleboard” is one word, no hyphen; “stand-up” is hyphenated before “paddleboarding.”
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kickoff; kick off: Use "kickoff" when used as noun or adjective; e.g., the campaign kickoff, the kickoff meeting. Use "kick off" when used as verb; e.g., I will kick off the meeting with introductions.
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gopher snake: Two words.
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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 Malibu, California
California State Parks had a blast being part of Malibu's fifth annual Safety Expo last week. K-9 Argo, his handler Ranger Gunn, and Ranger Maikai "unleashed" their knowledge about the invaluable work state park peace officers do in State Park System. Participants got hands-on experience learning about local wildlife with replica animal furs and gave some "paw-some" pets to K-9 Argo. More than just his coat, Argo showcased the incredible work his nose does in helping keep parks safe for all its visitors. A big thank you to the city of Malibu for hosting. We can't wait for next year!
Photo from Isla Buelow, Angeles District
 California State Capitol
Sara Schlussler from the Office of Grants and Local Services and Kevin Tang from Personnel represented California State Parks during the Sacramento Pride March on Sunday, June 11, with California Natural Resources Agency and California Environmental Protection Agency staff.
Photo from Sara Schlussler, Community Engagement Division
Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park
Parks staff try out a lemon pickle recipe from Jane Stanford's cookbook, which is currently on display at the historic mansion. Reviews varied! Click here or the button above to watch the video.
Video from Megan Stanley, Capital District
 Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
The theme of the California State Parks Week kickoff event at Lake Natoma was "try something new."
Top: Interpretive Senior Park Aide Horacio Porath and Interpreter Nicole Barden go kayaking. Bottom left: Interpreter Joleen Ossello conquers kayaking. Bottom right: Digital Content Analyst Brittani Peterson heads out on a kayak on Lake Natoma to capture videos for social media.
Photos from Adeline Yee and Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division
 Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
Left (left to right): Information Officer Adeline Yee, Save the Redwoods League Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Jennifer Benito and Deputy Director of Public Affairs Gloria Sandoval take a quick photo while State Parks Director Armando Quintero is being interviewed by KCBS Radio reporter Kris Ankarlo on horseback. Top right (left to right): FOX40 reporter Gary Gelfan, Jennifer Benito, Information Officer Doug Johnson and FOX40 photographer Saif Tawfeeq. Bottom right: Adeline tries out canoeing and also did stand-up paddleboarding for the first time.
Photos from Adeline Yee and Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
State Park Peace Officer Tristan Rosenberger is looking like he belongs in the "Yellowstone" TV series.
Photo from Adeline Yee, Communications and Marketing Division
 Donner Memorial State Park
A kayaker paddles through the early morning mist on Donner Lake inside the park before sunrise, Sunday, June 11.
Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division
 California State Railroad Musem
Keeping it clean! Hours before the California State Railroad Museum opens to the public, Museum Technicians Maria Bagget (top-right) and Shelia Aldrich (left) use a variety of specialized cleaners (bottom-right) and a scissor lift to keep the trains looking shiny and fingerprint-free.
Photos from Ileana Maestas, Capital District
 Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park
Top: Momma bear with her two cubs. Bottom: Bear cubs climbing a tree.
Note: Enjoy bears from a distance. Click here for more information on bear safety and how to keep Tahoe bears wild.
Photos from Camden Dahms, Sierra District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Left: A diamond clarkia (the flower that started my wildflower obsession). Right: A bordered patch butterfly on a popcorn plant. Did you know that they lay eggs on the host plant in clusters averaging 139 eggs per cluster?
Photos from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area
Meanwhile in the park … The only thing rarer than winning the lotto is seeing a pink grasshopper. The odds of seeing one is 1% during a person’s lifetime. Caused by the phenomenon erythrism, it is defined as an unusual reddish discoloration caused by a lack of black pigment and an excess production of red pigment. The combination of freckles and red hair is thought to be a form of erythrism in humans. It is cool that rare animals coexist in the off-road environment.
Photo from Callista Turner, Great Basin District
 Angel Island State Park
A small gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer) sunning itself on the pavement. When threatened, gopher snakes flatten their heads and vibrate their tails to mimic rattlesnakes. Luckily, this species is nonvenomous.
Photo from Victoria Austin, Bay Area District
 Portola Redwoods State Park
The Pacific lamprey spawn in our local creeks at Portola. The young feed on vegetable matter, and the adults become predators swimming in the ocean. Their mouth is a disk, like a suction cup with rasping teeth. SO COOL! In fast current, they can hold onto rocks with their mouths.
Photo from Lucas Dickey, Santa Cruz District
 Palomar Mountain State Park
Lupine seen from the Boucher Lookout at the park.
Photo from Emily Swarthout, Colorado Desert District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Another one of my favorite wildflowers, a fairy lantern.
Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Topanga State Park
Caterpillar scorpionweed (Phacelia cicutaria) has joined the spring "superbloom" following a winter rainfall total of 50 inches. It’s fun to say and pretty to see.
Photo from John Conroy, Angeles District
 Sutter's Fort State Historic Park
The historic park lit up for Sacramento Pride on Saturday, June 10.
Photo from Linsey Fredenburg Humes, Friends of Sutter's Fort
 Clear Lake State Park
A serene sunset.
Photo from Annie Scandurro, park visitor
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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Officer Xeem (Anthony) Yang Receives Note of Appreciation From Stranded Boaters at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area
Hello Sgt Barber,
My name is Gordon Heneweer and I wanted to reach out and express my sincere appreciation for [State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Xeem (Anthony)] Yang.
On June 13, my wife Cara and I launched our Malibu Wakesetter boat at the main Millerton Lake boat launch around 5:30pm. The conditions were perfect as we motored out to the opposite side of the lake and continued down the back channel, navigating through floating debris and logs washed down from the mountain runoff. We finally anchored our boat in a calm cove near the end of the back river channel.
We then settled in for a beautiful evening picnic on the boat. Around 7:45pm, we decided to head back to the boat ramp so that we could be off the lake by dark. As I turned the key to start the engine, I knew that our battery was dead. At that point, we knew that we may have to spend the night on the boat as there was no other boating activity around us. Fortunately, I had cell service and was connected to Officer Yang by the Fresno County Sheriff dispatcher.
Officer Yang was attending to another matter in the Madera area, but said he would drive to Millerton Lake and board the patrol boat to help us. Literally an hour or so later, Officer Yang found us and approached our stranded boat. He then helped us get the boat started with a hand-held battery charger. We then began a slow journey back to the boat ramp in very dark conditions. With all the floating debris in the back channel, Officer Yang navigated the patrol boat and escorted us all the way back. When we got to the boat ramp, he tied off the vessel and provided lighting so that we could place the boat on the trailer.
Officer Yang went above and beyond to help us and did so in a very humble and professional manner. Cara and I are so grateful for his willingness to rescue us in our moment of crisis.
I hope you are able to share this story with your team, and provide a moment of special recognition to Officer Yang.
Sincerely,
Gordon & Cara Heneweer
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June 15, 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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