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 August 2, 2024
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 Malibu Creek State Park
The M*A*S*H signpost points to past Olympic sites like Seoul and Tokyo, but where is Paris? In case you're wondering, it's 5,666.62 miles to this year's Summer Olympics.
Photo from Angeles District
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Employee Spotlight: Simon Fong
Story from: Jo Biswas, Communications and Marketing Division
 Simon with his dog, Brownie. Photos from Simon Fong, IT Division.
We’re excited to highlight Simon as our very first Employee Spotlight pick! Simon is an invaluable member of the Parks Information Technology (IT) Division, providing Help Desk support for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 IT issues. Anyone who’s been assisted by him will tell you that he's always upbeat, friendly, and eager to tackle your tech troubles. Read on to learn more about Simon!
Q: What do you enjoy most about your role?
A: The people at Parks. Every person is unique and does something different for Parks. I went all the way down to Heber Dunes SVRA and Pelican State Beach. The ability to travel lets me meet with these people and see the land we support.
Q: Can you share a project or accomplishment you're particularly proud of?
A: During the pandemic, we had an issue with the new computers. A percentage of them would not start up properly. I diagnosed that there was a faulty design to the motherboard which will affect the ability to read the hard drives in the computer. I replaced the hard drives with SSDs (solid-state drives) and fixed the issue.
Q: Can you share a memorable or fun experience from your time with the department?
A: We had to drive off road to a park in the desert. After replacing computers in a remote park, we were offered a scenic boat trip up the river. It was near 110 degrees that day. The cool river and natural rock formations helped make the day trip worth it. The personal tour was a nice touch.
Q: Do you have any advice for new employees or those looking to excel in their careers?
A: Availability is a good skill. When I was a student, I said yes to everything. Even duties that were outside my scope. By the end of my internship with Parks, I was on the IT team coordinating our move to our current accommodations. You are doing well if people come to you for questions. Make sure to take breaks and vacations too.
Q: What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?
A: I like spending time with friends and my dog, playing board games, and checking out local events on the weekends.
Nominate An Exemplary Colleague
Do you know of an exceptional State Parks colleague in your field, division, or district, who goes above and beyond in their role? Nominate them for Employee Spotlight! In upcoming issues, the Weekly Digest team will spotlight outstanding employees, sharing insights into their journey, experiences, and wisdom gained during their career at State Parks.
Send in your submissions to WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov with the subject: "Employee Spotlight Submission".
Don't forget to include:
- Specific reasons for why you are nominating them. This could be based on their outstanding achievements, dedication, teamwork, or any other qualities that make them stand out.
- The name of their supervisor (if you know who that is).
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Mendocino Headlands State Park Team Carries Out Dramatic Sailboat Rescue
Story from: Bill Maslach, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District
 Top: The 32-foot sailboat stuck on shore on Portuguese Beach in Mendocino Headlands State Park. Photo from Loren M. Rex, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District. Bottom right: Supervising State Park Peace Officer (Lifeguard) Joe Stoffers setting up a line-and-pulley system. Bottom left: Stoffers and Lifeguard I Chase Ahrens work from the water to help pull the boat free. Photos from Bill Maslach, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District.
In a great example of teamwork and resourcefulness, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District staff pulled off a tricky rescue to free a sailboat stuck on the shore at Mendocino Headlands State Park. The 30-foot sailboat, Not Sure, washed up on Portuguese Beach.
The next morning, the responding team quickly got to work to rescue the boat and its occupants. State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) (Ranger) Brandon Burson stayed on the beach to handle communications, while Lifeguard I Chase Ahrens and Supervising SPPO (Lifeguard) Joe Stoffers worked from the water on freeing the vessel. Stoffers rigged a winch to a driftwood log and set up a line-and-pulley system connected to the ship's anchors. This setup allowed them to pull the boat forward, gradually working it free from the beach. Later, a team of five lifeguards entered the water, towing the vessel into the bay by pulling a line while swimming.
By this time, a crowd had gathered on the bluff above and was watching the team's efforts. As the boat was successfully freed, the crowd erupted in applause, clearly awed by the team's ability to accomplish such a challenging rescue by hand. This is a great display of the Mendocino Headlands ranger and lifeguard staff's remarkable expertise, ingenuity, and ability to handle any challenge that comes their way.
Sierra District State Park Peace Officer Comes to Aid of Stranded Boaters on Lake Tahoe
Story from: Dan Youngren, Sierra District
 State Park Peace Officer Ryan Petersen in front of Lake Tahoe, where he helped rescue a group of boaters. Photo from Taylor Jackson, Sierra District.
A Sierra District employee's quick action, professionalism, and ability to stay calm under pressure played a crucial role in rescuing a group of stranded boaters. State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) Ryan Petersen, who is also a qualified lifeguard, demonstrated these qualities on Saturday, July 13, during a high wind event on Lake Tahoe.
An aquatic deputy with the Placer County Sheriff's Office contacted SPPO Petersen for assistance after reports came in of a capsized vessel on the lake. Petersen and Seasonal Lifeguard Logan Connors responded swiftly, heading to the area on their patrol vessel along with Placer County personnel. Upon arrival, they discovered at least six people in the water, struggling to swim to shore in difficult conditions. The water was choppy, with strong gusting winds.
Without hesitation, SPPO Petersen stripped down to his “reds” – his lifeguard swim trunks – and dove into the water to assist the stranded boaters. His efforts, alongside those of the team, ensured that the boaters reached a pier safely. This successful rescue operation was a testament to Petersen's prior networking with allied agencies and his professional lifeguard training, which not only ensured the safety of the visitors but also enhanced the department's reputation with its allied agency partners.
Well done, SPPO Petersen!
Sonoma State Historic Park and CAL FIRE Host Family Safety Event
Story and photos from: Dave Duplantier, Bay Area District
 Top left: A young boy in a firefighter uniform poses for a photo in front of Engine 1482. Top right: CAL FIRE personnel demonstrate a water sweep for attendees. Bottom: CAL FIRE is set up and ready for the safety event to start.
The Bay Area District recently teamed up with CAL FIRE (Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit) to host an engaging and educational event at Sonoma State Historic Park (SHP) that delighted families and children. The highlight of the day was a 4x4 wildfire engine and a 10-person hand crew from the Hood Mountain base. Both vehicles were staged in front of Sonoma SHP for attendees to enjoy. Unfortunately, the large vehicle tractor trailer with a bulldozer was diverted to an incident on the way to the event.
Children had the exciting opportunity to use a fire hose and other equipment with the help of CAL FIRE personnel. They were also able to climb aboard the engine as the crew put on the emergency lights and did a few quick blasts of the horn. The event also featured a variety of fun giveaways, including stickers, coloring pages, and plastic helmets, ensuring that every child went home with a special memento.
Beyond the fun, the event also served an important educational purpose. CAL FIRE representatives provided valuable fire prevention tips and safety information, helping raise awareness about the importance of fire safety in the community. A wildfire engine and a hand crew demonstrated how they set up and deployed their equipment, charging a live (water hose) line and simulating a ground fire attack for event attendees.
About 250 attendees participated, showing their appreciation for the tireless work CAL FIRE men and women do every day to respond to fires and emergencies throughout the state. This collaborative event was a great success, combining entertainment and education to benefit both children and their families.
Adamson House Lintel Restoration Project Preserves the Past at Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Story from: Cassandra Chavez, Angeles District
 A before (top) and after (bottom) comparison of the Adamson House lintel. Photos from Damian Ruddy, Angeles District.
At the entrance to the historic Adamson House at Malibu Lagoon State Beach, an ornately carved lintel (beam) stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of a time long gone. This beautiful piece of architectural history, which has greeted visitors for nearly a century, has recently received a much-needed restoration to protect it from Malibu’s intense coastal weather.
Since the last restoration of the lintel was over ten years ago, it was necessary to protect it from further deterioration. Consequently, a strategy for rehabilitation was drafted then followed by a plan of action for the restoration of the lintel.
The restoration project took a total of 130 hours to complete, with 83 of those hours allocated to cleaning, and 48 hours designated to the application of a weather-proofing sealant, all of which was done with eco-friendly environmental supplies. A canvas drop cloth was placed to protect and preserve the historic flagstones and surrounding areas, all while the entire lintel was broadly scrubbed with a large brush to strip away the old sealant. A smaller specialized soft bristle brush was then used for the finer details and intricate curves. After completing the cleaning phases, three coats of natural wood sealant were applied using specialized synthetic-bristled paintbrushes.
With vigilance and team effort, the project was successfully completed in a timely manner. The restored lintel now gleams with renewed vigor, its detailed carvings once again standing out as a focal point of the Adamson House.
One of the Adamson House docents, Marilyn Wolk, said, “This is a beautiful example of hand carved wood. I had a tour group look at it in awe and they marveled at the details, and it’s all thanks to Parks staff and interns who brought it back to its original splendor.”
An annual conservation program, involving a light cleaning and sealant application is planned to maintain and keep the historic intricately carved lintel ready to withstand yet another hundred years of Malibu weather for guests of the Adamson House to enjoy.
 A side-by-side closeup of the Adamson House lintel before (left) and after (right) its restoration. Photos from Damian Ruddy, Angeles District.
Los Angeles State Historic Park's Program of Special Events Has a Great Community Impact
Story from: Angeles District
 Special events at Los Angeles State Historic Park, clockwise from top left: Kite festival. Major concert/festival. Photos from Angeles District. People enjoying the green space. Photo courtesy from California State Parks. Movie night. Photo from Angeles District.
Los Angeles State Historic Park (LASHP) is widely known for its impeccable maintenance, accessible urban green space, and a robust program of special events and community engagement programs.
Special events hosted at LASHP have included major concerts, festivals, movie nights, fitness walks/runs, live performances, craft fairs, LA Pride, and more. Revenue generated from these special events directly supports a variety of projects and activities at LASHP, as well as throughout the California State Park System. Examples include:
- Design and construction of a new pedestrian crosswalk along Spring Street
- Attendance at a science camp for students of Castelar Elementary School
- Weekly monitoring and staff support for the Los Angeles River Farmers Market
- Upgrade and installation of security cameras throughout the park
- Purchase of turf cutter, donation of golf cart, and other park maintenance tools
- Rental and logistical support for the annual Community and Unity People's Kite Festival
- Monitoring and staff support for a variety of free community engagement events
In addition to proceeds which directly support LASHP, special events also generate significant revenue and engagement for businesses and organizations throughout Downtown Los Angeles. Father Greg Boyle, S.J., founder of Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest gang rehabilitation and reentry program in the world, states that “events and concerts at the park help to build and foster community, connection, and incredible opportunities for Homeboy Industries and the people we serve.” Furthermore, Boyle believes that special events at LASHP create “new cultural experiences” and “awareness about the environment” for people who may not have previously had access to these activities.
In late 2024, the Angeles District will establish a forum for community feedback to discuss the impacts and benefits of special events at LASHP. The collaborative discussions will provide an overview of current programming as well as a framework for coordination of future event seasons. The forum will also create a direct line of communication between the park and its neighbors.
To learn more about special events and community engagement programs at LASHP, please visit: https://lastatehistoricpark.org/events/.
 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
 Environmental Services Interns – Apply by August 7, 2024: The Environmental Services Intern (ESI) will work with the District’s Natural Resources team on habitat restoration and vegetation management. Duties include removing invasive plants, thinning vegetation, planting, fencing, and maintaining irrigation systems. The ESI will also monitor wildlife, document activities, and help ensure environmental compliance. Click here for more information and to apply.
Associate Park and Recreation Specialist – Apply by August 24, 2024: As the NAGPRA Program Lead, your role will be to take the lead on formal, government-to-government consultations with federally recognized and non-federally recognized tribes. You will work with culturally affiliated tribes to identify and repatriate the remains of their ancestors and cultural items in a respectful and expeditious manner. Click here for more information and to apply.
Associate State Archaeologist – (Multiple opportunities) – Apply-by dates vary: In this exciting role, you will use your expertise in the practice of archaeology and knowledge of pertinent law and regulation to review cultural resources, evaluation and treatment, and other important tasks. Click here to view opportunities and to apply.
Park Interpretive Specialist (Multiple opportunities) – Apply-by dates vary: In this seasonal role, you will lead engaging tours, and promote conservation across the state. Other tasks include conducting educational programs, operating audiovisual equipment, and educating visitors on park rules and preservation. Click here to view opportunities and to apply.
Communications Operator – Until Filled: Are you looking for an exciting and rewarding career that allows you to provide protection to the public, law enforcement, and California State Parks? In this position, you will monitor emergency communication systems, answer calls for service, and dispatch field units to emergencies. Become a guardian of the largest state park system in the nation in this exciting and rewarding career. Click here to view opportunities and to apply.
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Aquatic Pest Control Specialist (9/1/2024) - As a journeyperson, you'll lead a pest control team under general supervision, handling all fieldwork and project phases. You'll oversee planning, training, and coordination, drawing on technical data to make decisions. The specialist ensures safe boat operation, trains the technician, and maintains equipment while guiding and directing field activities. Click here for more information.
Aquatic Pest Control Technician (9/1/2024) - Our Aquatic Pest Control team is responsible for making sure our California State Parks' waterways are free of invasive plant and animal species. In this entry-level role, you'll perform routine tasks under close supervision while training in aquatic pest control and advancing quickly through increasing responsibilities. Click here for more information.
Museum Curator I (8/15/2024) – Guided by general direction, the Museum Curator I will skillfully plan and oversee programs for acquiring, conserving, and interpreting museum objects within park areas or house museums. From preservation to storage, they ensure each artifact's significance is preserved and shared with care. Click here for more information.
Museum Curator II (8/15/2024) – The Museum Curator II leads strategic programs for managing museum collections in facilities with active yet moderate-sized holdings. From acquisition to storage, they ensure each artifact is carefully preserved and its story is vividly told. Click here for more information.
Museum Technician (8/15/2024) – As a Museum Technician, you will safeguard and maintain art collections with precision. Your duties will also include specialized cleaning, pest control, and climate management. You will contribute to preservation efforts through inventory management and record-keeping, while ensuring safe object relocation. Click here for more information.
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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Olympics, Olympic, Olympian Games, Olympian: All are capitalized.
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Prefix “re”: reexamine, reword, reentry: All one word, no hyphen.
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sunblock, sunscreen: One word.
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
State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Ray Rathjen-Gonzales instructs a group of officers and firefighter rescue teams during the South San Luis Obispo County active shooter training. The annual training is a two-day, multiagency training on active shooter response.
Photo from Patrick Cullen, Oceano Dunes District
 Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District Superintendent Bill Maslach grilling hot dogs at a volunteer appreciation event on June 13.
Photo from Amelia Schall Tůmová, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Ground squirrel surveying the land.
Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Hearst San Simeon State Park
A bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) flying by San Simeon Creek.
Photo from Rachael Mellinger, San Luis Obispo District
 Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area
This hawk caught a meal (ground squirrel).
Photo from Christopher Kofman, Great Basin District
 Bodie State Historic Park
"I spy with my little frog eye."
Photo from Simone DuRand, Sierra District
[Editor's note: The "frog" is actually a Great Basin spadefoot toad but that would make for a less catchy caption...]
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Clockwise from left: A participant of the park's Horses 101 program pets Gus, a favorite with visitors. View of the full moon just before dawn from the park. An orange sulphur butterfly feeding on California buckwheat.
Photos from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
A perfect mess.
Photo from Ashley Miller, park visitor
Sonoma State Historic Park
View of striking clouds from the courtyard of the historic La Casa Grande.
Photo from Donna Joy Vigil, Bay Area District
 Red Rock Canyon State Park
Photos taken during a trip to the Eastern Sierra.
Photos from Steve Nestle, Santa Cruz District
 South Carlsbad State Beach
Typical summer day, looking south toward Encinitas.
Photo from Mike Powell, San Diego Coast District
 Austin Creek State Recreation Area
I took this photo while on a tour of Pond Farm Pottery on Monday, July 29. It was fascinating to learn about the life of Marguerite Friedlaender Wildenhain and I encourage anybody interested to sign up for a tour by clicking here.
Photo from Amelia Schall Tůmová, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District
 MacKerricher State Park
A beach cleanup was held on July 20 at Pudding Creek in partnership with the Mendocino Coast Children’s Fund.
Photo from Amelia Schall Tůmová, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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Here are some upcoming State Parks events. For a list of more upcoming events, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/events.
Saturday, August 3, 2024
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Backcountry Gourmet Cooking in the Wilderness—Mount San Jacinto State Park at 3 p.m.: See what's on the menu with Interpreter Nick. Learn some great new and easy recipes to use while backpacking or hiking! Location: Idyllwild Campground | 25905 CA-243, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549.
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Cocoa, Coffee and Crafting— South Carlsbad State Beach, 9-11 a.m.: Start your summer morning right with hot cocoa, coffee, crafts and community. Stop by these open house style events to meet Interpretive staff and other campers, learn about campground updates and local attractions or participate in passive-style activities. Topics vary each session. Coffee and hot cocoa will be provided while supplies last, please plan to BYOM (Bring-Your-Own-Mug)! Location: Campfire arena (grey benches next to The Camp Store). Family-friendly, all ages, campers, and walk-in guests welcome. No on-site parking for day-use visitation.
Friday, August 9, 2024
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Family Fun Fridays—San Elijo State Beach, 9-11 a.m.: Get a jump on the weekend by attending these fun-filled Friday mornings! Join a state park interpreter for family friendly activities including crafts, games and ocean education. Topics vary each session. This event is open-house style, drop in anytime from 9-11 a.m. to participate. Location: Campfire arena (south end of campground). Family-friendly, all ages, campers, and walk-in guests welcome. No on-site parking for day-use visitation.
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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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