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 July 21, 2023
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 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Cotton candy skies during sunset at Stonewall Mine.
Photo from Emily Swarthout, Colorado Desert District
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Adventure Pass Goes Live to Explore Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park on July 28
Story from: Daniel Williford, Interpretation and Education Division
 Get ready for the next broadcast of the Adventure Pass Exploration LIVE! livestream. Fresh from last month’s incredible big tree sequoia exploration at Calaveras Big Trees State Park, our virtual visit this month on Friday, July 28, at noon, takes us to the breathtaking giant old-growth coast redwood forest and true jewel in the treasure chest of California State Parks—Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. We will travel to the banks of the wild Smith River to meet with Park Interpreter Kyle Buchanan and find out what an Adventure Pass user can do in this remarkable ancient redwood forest.
View the livestream on either the department’s Facebook page or the Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students program Facebook page. The monthly broadcasts are building an audience with each livestream adventure, averaging about 1,000 views!
The livestream program is also aimed at educating fourth graders, their families and the general public about the California State Park Adventure Pass. The Adventure Pass Exploration LIVE! broadcast will share what the Adventure Pass is and how to get one, and encourage fourth graders to sign up for the free pass. We will also remind 2022-2023 fourth graders that their Adventure Pass is valid throughout the summer until Aug. 31, 2023. The 2023-2024 school year’s fourth graders can sign up starting Sept. 1, 2023.
Grab your lunch and settle in for an unforgettable virtual adventure at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park!
Click here to learn more about the Adventure Pass.
Aquatics Meets Cultural Interpretation With New Blended Program at Chah-pekw O' Ket'-toh Stone Lagoon Visitor Center
Story from: Nicole Peters, Chah-pekw O' Ket'-toh Stone Lagoon Visitor Center, Yurok Tribe
 Left and top right: Local youth from the Klamath Weitchpec Boys and Girls Club enjoy time out on the water with Yurok Tribe Visitor Center and North Coast Redwoods District lifeguard staff. Bottom right: Youth have the opportunity to hear from Tianna Williams-Claussen, director of the Yurok Tribe Wildlife Department. Photos from California State Parks.
Connect to the Coast youth programming, a brand-new program in partnership with North Coast Redwoods District and the Yurok Tribe, kicked off earlier this month at the Chah-pekw O' Ket'-toh Stone Lagoon Visitor Center, located within Humboldt Lagoons State Park.
This program brings together local youth to experience Yurok cultural interpretation from the Yurok Tribe and California State Parks visitor center staff and water safety skills from California State Parks lifeguards. Through this program, youth are working on creating new material to potentially enhance and update the current Junior Ranger workbook. They have also had the opportunity to interact with and learn from the Yurok Wildlife Program, focusing on past, present and future restoration work and will get to experience traditional food practices from the Yurok Food Sovereignty Program.
State Parks lifeguards collaborated with the Stone Lagoon Visitor Center to create fun water activities for youth participants. Using kayaks and paddleboards, the lifeguards demonstrate safe water practices and create activities that increase skills and confidence.
The goal for this program is to encourage outdoor exploration and recreation, especially for those who live near local state parks. This unique blended program allows local youth to connect not only with the cultural significance of this area, but also allows them to learn important skills to stay safe in and around the water.
Paddle Sports Pilot Program Launches at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area
Story and photos from: Eduardo Gonzalez, Central Valley District
 Visitors enjoy the paddle sports pilot program at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area.
Shaky knees and concerns of tipping boards quickly disappeared as participants of the first Paddle Sports program at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area (SRA) took to the water in kayaks and atop stand-up paddleboards. Quickly gaining confidence aboard their vessel, smiles began to arise. Thanks to the support of the Division of Boating and Waterways and donated kayaks from Parks California, Millerton Lake SRA will be hosting eight programs this summer, from mid-July to mid-August, every Wednesday and Friday, as part of the new pilot Paddle Sports program.
During the first program on Friday, July 14, staff discussed the importance of wearing a life jacket and ensuring its proper fit. We stressed having all safety equipment—such as a whistle and leash—and establishing a float plan before ever entering the water are key to a fun and safe outing. Families learned basic paddling techniques and getting on and off the vessels. All the families who participated were first-time paddleboarders and shared their deep appreciation for the program. It allowed them and their children to experience a new type of recreation and the means to do so safely. All of this was available at no cost beyond the park day-use fee.
Registration was opened to the public on the morning of Wednesday, July 12; all eight public programs were filled within 24 hours. The full registration indicated that the public is not only interested in such programming, but demanding them. Residents of the Central Valley are eager to take part in programming at our parks, and we are happy to have been given the opportunity to provide them with it.
We hope to continue this program in efforts to expose our visitors to new experiences and educate them on the importance of water safety. To learn more about the program, click here.
New Sign at Pismo State Beach Oceano Campground
Story and photos from: Laurel Rodger, Oceano Dunes District
 Oceano Dunes District's maintenance team members pose in front of the new sign that will welcome visitors to the Oceano Campground at Pismo State Beach (SB) for many years. Left to right: Maintenance Mechanic Troy Berg, Park Maintenance Supervisor Lloyd Kinney, Park Maintenance Chief III Jeff Findlay and Park Maintenance Worker I Brian Lydy.
After decades of welcoming visitors to the Oceano Campground at Pismo State Beach, the front entrance sign was beginning to show its age. Park Maintenance Chief III Jeff Findley wanted to replace the old sign with a new one that would stand the test of time. After exploring various options, the maintenance team settled on using treated concrete to replicate the look of the original wooden sign, and the new design they created paid tribute to the iconic old sign.
The new sign was manufactured in 13 pieces and shipped by truck to the Oceano Dunes District. In preparation for its arrival, the park's maintenance team removed the old sign and poured 19 yards of concrete for the new foundation in the old sign’s existing footprint. On the big installation day, a loader moved the approximately 10,000-pound new sign into place.
The project took about a year and a half to complete, and it was well worth the effort.
 The old Oceano Campground sign at Pismo State Beach.
Are You Ready for the Lemon Pickle Challenge?
Story and photos from: Megan Stanley, Capital District
 State Parks staff: Are you ready for the Lemon Pickle Challenge? Would you like to try a lemon pickle? You might have seen the Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park video with guide staff trying a lemon pickle recipe that comes from an 1857 cookbook once owned by Jane Stanford. A combination of lemons, onions, vinegar and spices creates a bright yet interesting flavor, and we thought it would be fun to share these interesting pickles with you!
If you are in the area and would like to stop by and try a lemon pickle, we would love to have you. Please contact Megan Stanley at megan.stanley@parks.ca.gov prior to your arrival. It would also be appreciated if you would let us film you trying it so that we can share the reactions with our park friends.
  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
Environmental Scientist (Watershed) (Permanent Intermittent) – Apply by July 21, 2023: Today is your last day to apply for this amazing career path! In this position, you will have the opportunity to be involved at the district level with the Watershed Management Program. Duties include watershed management and trails planning, coordinating with other agencies and project consultants, and other exciting projects. Take the assessment and apply. Click here for more information.
State Park Interpreter II – Apply by July 22, 2023: You will be responsible for planning, research and development of interpretive projects for the Department of Parks and Recreation; interpretation of concepts to the public; directing work of seasonal staff and volunteers; participation in or direction of major interpretive projects or portions of large interpretive projects; and other related work. Take the assessment and apply. Click here for more information.
Senior State Archeologist – Apply by July 24, 2023: Supervise and direct a major unit of professional archaeological staff within the department’s Cultural Cannabis Watershed Protection Program. Take the assessment and apply. Click here for more information.
Communication Operator – Apply by Aug. 1, 2023: The Communications Operator will dispatch State Park Peace Officers (Rangers and Lifeguards), National Park Service Rangers, Department of Fish and Game Wardens, and other emergency services personnel in the Southern Communications Center service area to emergency and non-emergency events. Take the assessment and apply. Click here for more information.
State Park Interpreter Specialist (Curatorial) – Apply by Sept. 26, 2023: Help develop interpretive content for interpretation, exhibit programs and digital media for the State Capitol Museum. This is an entry-level position. No assessment required. 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. No assessment required. Click here for more information.
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Aquatic Pest Control Series – Continuous: The role of the Aquatic Pest Control series is to minimize the impact of invasive plants in our waterways through weed control programs. The series includes Aquatic Pest Control Technicians and Specialists. 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 Series – 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: Embrace upskilling and venture outside your comfort zone. When you try new things, you prepare yourself for your next role. Take advantage of training opportunities and learn new skills.
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!
Steve Hilton Promotes to District Superintendent of Gold Fields District
Story from Jason De Wall, Northern Division Chief
Effective Tuesday, August 1, Steve Hilton will be the district superintendent of Gold Fields District as a district superintendent II. I want to thank Barry Smith for his more than three years of selfless service as the district superintendent. Barry will resume his duties as chief ranger in the district, working closely with Steve in his new role.
Steve joined California State Parks’ Northern Service Center as an associate state archaeologist in 2008, transferring from Caltrans Headquarters. Over the next eight years, Steve traveled throughout Northern California, assisting with large complex projects and undertakings. In May 2016 Steve joined State Parks’ Cultural Resources Division and quickly showed his enthusiasm for working closely with staff in the field, Service Centers and Headquarters. He loves to problem-solve and took on the job of developing the Parks Cultural Resource Database. He thrives in designing training programs that engage students with hands-on, practical scenarios. He excels in building collaborative relations between state parks and Tribal communities in developing agreements. Steve was willing to tackle the job of managing the various programs areas through a period of great change during the Transformation process.
In 2019 Steve landed in Gold Fields District as the Cultural Resources Program Manager. Working closely with district staff, Steve has developed relationships with a variety of stakeholders and partners while managing cultural resources. Over the past year, Steve has been working closely with district managers as the Gold Fields Deputy District Superintendent, taking on a variety of tasks, projects and events.
Please join me in congratulating Steve.
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Welcome, Richard Fink II, New District Superintendent of Angeles District
Story from Jason De Wall, Northern Division Chief
We are proud to announce the new district superintendent of the Angeles District, Richard Fink II.
Richard Fink II most recently served as deputy director for Orange County Parks. In this role, Richard oversaw the operation of over 60,000 acres of public land, including beaches, regional parks, historic sites, wilderness and protected areas. Previously, Richard served in a governor-appointed position with New York State Parks, where he assumed the role of deputy regional director for the New York City Region.
Richard is one of 300 Certified Park and Recreation Executives in the United States as, recognized by the National Recreation and Park Association. Richard; his partner, Lucinda; their 6-year-old son, Mason; and puppy, Scrambles, are extremely excited to join the California State Parks team in the Angeles District.
Richard will report for his first day on the job on Tuesday, August 1.
Please join me in welcoming Richard to California State Parks.
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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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Single space versus double at end of sentence: Use a single space at the end of a sentence after a period, question mark, etc., not a double space.
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Percent: Acceptable to use % symbol. Always use a numeral, even if under 10. Example: She is in the top 5% of her class.
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bioblitz: Use lowercase. A bioblitz is a community effort to record as many species within a designated location and time period as possible. A bioblitz event engages the public to connect with nature while also generating important and useful information for science and conservation. Mark your calendars, many state parks will be hosting bioblitzes to celebrate California Biodiversity Day from September 2-11.
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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 Pismo State Beach
Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area lifeguards partner with Pismo Beach City lifeguards for a cold, foggy evening aquatic training. Thank you to State Parks Seasonal Lifeguard II/Pismo Beach City Lifeguard Kiran Heidler for organizing the training and for the development of interagency camaraderie!
Photo from David Flanagan, Oceano Dunes District
 Citrus Heights, California
Congratulations to State Park Peace Officers (SPPO) Andrew Helble (left) and Hayden McDaniel for earning the Gold Fields District Top Officers in DUIs and boating under the influence (BUI) arrests in 2022. They were both recognized at the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Awards Ceremony for their enforcement efforts in 2022 and awarded a certificate and DUI 23152/ BUI 655 pin. The MADD ceremony was held at the Citrus Heights Community Center for the Northern California Law Enforcement Agencies. Andrew and Hayden work at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area.
Photo from Eric Dales, Gold Fields District
 Citrus Heights, California
It was an honor for Captain Scott Modeste and me to attend the MADD Awards Ceremony event with SPPOs Andrew Helble and Hayden McDaniel.
Left to right: Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division Captain Scott Modeste, SPPOs Andrew Helble and Hayden McDaniel from Folsom Lake State Recreation Area (SRA), Sergeant Eric Dales from Folsom Lake SRA, and Placer County Sr. Champlain Mike Boon.
Photo from Eric Dales, Gold Fields District
 Donner Memorial State Park
The Gold Fields District administrative team took their district’s tagline “What’s Your Adventure?” to the next level on Thursday, July 13, for a paddle tour of the lake. Not only was the tour educational, as staff members learned how the lake came to be and the important historical impact Donner Pass had on migration to the west and transcontinental railroad, but it was also a fun total-body, team-building workout. We all highly recommend you put this tour on your next state park adventure list! We would like to thank State Park Interpreter II Jeremy Lin and Senior Park Aide Interpreter Specialist Nick Potter for taking time to show off their passion for a beautiful park and their knowledge of the past.
Staff in the photos are Staff Services Analyst Jerrie Beard, Staff Services Analyst Cheryl La Jeunesse, Staff Services Manager II Brandy Greene, Administrative Officer I Carissa Barnett, Management Services Technician Ashton Hosmann, Office Technician Kasie Green, Associate Governmental Program Analyst Holly Welch and Staff Services Analyst Jill Brandt.
Photos from Carissa Barnett, Gold Fields District
 Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area
In-progress work—done by Master Equipment Operator Dwane Bell (in loader) and Hungry Valley Trail Crew Justin Bahn, Jon Bechtel, Ruben Jacobo and Blake Larson—on the soon-to-be-completed additions to the four-wheel-drive vehicles practice area. We’re excited to have these new additions!
Photo from Blake Larson, Great Basin District
 Palomar Mountain State Park
Deer roaming at Doane Valley Pond.
Photo from Emily Swarthout, Colorado Desert District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
A female western bluebird taking off. Did you know that females are gray-buff with a pale orange wash on the breast and blue tints to the wings and tail? The throat is blue in males and gray-buff in females, and the lower belly is whitish.
Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Old Sacramento State Historic Park
Yellow-billed magpies are only found in California and nowhere else. They can be found in parts of Northern California, including the Sacramento River Valley. These handsome birds alight on a locomotive at the California State Railroad Museum, on the banks of the historic Sacramento River.
Photo from Marion Millin, Capital District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Left: Grasshopper on a weed mariposa lily. Right: Golden bowl mariposa lily with a small pollinator.
Photos from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch
State Vehicular Recreation Area
Frogs on a log. This mix of Western toads and Baja tree frogs have recently transitioned to their journey on land, exploring the grasses away from their still-tadpole relatives.
Photo from Matthew Williams, Great Basin District
 Portola Redwoods State Park
A spined woodborer found outside Portola Maintenance Shop door. As larvae, these rather large beetles eat dead and dying wood of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir.
Photo from Lucas Dickey, Santa Cruz District
 Trione-Annadel State Park
"Once scorched forest
The little saplings that could
Reaching for the sky"
Taken along Richardson Trail.
Photo from Bill Krumbein, Retired ranger
Sue-meg State Park
Evening colors.
Photo from Kevin Manning, Camp host
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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Kudos to Camp Host Ron at Humboldt Redwoods State Park
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July 21, 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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