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 April 11, 2025
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 Henry W. Coe State Park
My family and I were on a hike this past Saturday and my daughter spotted this gray fox on the roof near the visitor center getting a tan.
Photos from Mike Dippel, Monterey District
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WHAT'S NEW
Black Bear Wins State Parks' Sweet 16 Contest
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 This week we announced the winner of our Nature's Sweet 16 top wildlife animal contest that was voted by our social media followers on Instagram, Facebook and X for the past three weeks. The animal that was favored over some incredible California wildlife species over the past three weeks is…drum roll…ROAR…the ferocious BLACK BEAR!
We'd like to thank all who participated! This would not have been a success without everyone participating and we hope everyone learned some interesting facts about the wildlife that roams in California’s open spaces.
Here are some facts about black bears:
- Black bears are large and powerful, typically weighing between 150-600 pounds, with some males topping 800 pounds.
- They have an exceptionally strong sense of smell, which helps them locate food and mates, even from a great distance.
- They are excellent tree climbers, using their strong claws to ascend trees quickly for safety or to reach food sources.
- There are an estimated 25,000 to 35,000 black bears in California.
Read our blog to learn more!
Celebrate National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, April 13-19
Story from: Mary Garza, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 Communication operators left to right: Adam Kanthathin, Glen Elliff, Jennifer Vargas, PJ Davis and James Cheney. Photos from Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division.
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 13-19) is a time to recognize the dedicated professionals who serve as the lifeline between the public and emergency responders. Dispatchers play a crucial role in public safety, ensuring that help arrives when and where it is needed most.
Last year, dispatchers at both Northern Communications Center (NORCOM) and Southern Communications Center (SURCOM) felt truly appreciated by the officers from each department they serve. Throughout the week, they were showered with thank-you letters, snacks and, best of all, visits from so many officers. The overwhelming support and recognition reinforced just how valued their work is in the public safety community.
Unlike many dispatch centers that serve only a single city or county, NORCOM and SURCOM cover vast areas, ensuring seamless communication and coordination across multiple jurisdictions. NORCOM provides dispatch services for 43 counties in the northern two thirds of the state, while SURCOM covers 15 counties in the southern third. The two centers work together, sharing resources and dispatching for each other when needed to maintain consistent coverage across the state.
Dispatchers at NORCOM and SURCOM are responsible for coordinating emergency response efforts for a variety of agencies, including California State Parks, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Mountain Recreation Conservation Authority, and select officers of CAL FIRE, the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The calls they handle are as diverse as the agencies they support, ranging from reports of lost hikers and wildfire outbreaks to poaching incidents and medical emergencies in remote locations.
The work of a dispatcher is both challenging and rewarding. Every day, they must remain calm under pressure, think critically, and provide clear and accurate information to both callers and emergency responders. A typical call might involve a frantic family who has lost their child in a large state park. The dispatcher gathers key details about the child’s last known location, provides reassurance to the family, and coordinates search and rescue efforts. But dispatchers also handle other serious incidents—reports of animal cruelty, poaching, sexual assault, domestic violence, a variety of crimes in progress, drownings, swift water rescues, cliff rescues, wildfires and other emergencies that typical law enforcement agencies face daily. People bring their problems with them when they visit the parks and dispatchers must be ready to respond to any crisis with professionalism and urgency.
Despite the demands of the job, NORCOM and SURCOM dispatchers remain committed to their mission. Recruiting and training efforts continue to ensure that both centers become fully staffed, with new hires joining the teams and undergoing extensive training to prepare for the critical role they will play.
During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week we honor the dedication, resilience and skill of our dispatchers. Their work often goes unnoticed, but without them, emergency response would not be possible. To all the dispatchers working tirelessly behind the scenes—thank you for your service!
Every Kid Outdoors Interns Visit the Los Angeles Zoo on Professional Development Day
Story from: Lili Taleghani-Nia, Angeles District
 Top left: Los Angeles Zoo entrance sign.Top right: State Park Interpreter I Lili Taleghani-Nia in front of the zoo entrance. Bottom left: Every Kid Outdoors education interns, California State Parks and National Park Service staff, and Philip Caltabiano from the Learning and Engagement Division at the Los Angeles Zoo stop for a group photo. Bottom right: Giraffes at the Los Angeles Zoo. Photos from Cassandra Chavez, Angeles District.
Every Kid Outdoors (EKO) education interns shared between State Parks' Angeles District and our park partners from the National Park Service's Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area recently visited the Los Angeles Zoo to explore potential career paths and gain insight into the zoo’s interpretive educational programming.
The zoo's Learning and Engagement Division offers a variety of educational opportunities, including Zoo Camp during the summer, school programs, on-grounds interpretation, outreach programs and a paid internship program. Additionally, the zoo hosts seasonal programs like its Beloved Pet Ofrenda in October and Community Partner Career Tours, allowing local organizations to introduce youth to nature-based careers.
Interns learned about the zoo’s curriculum programs, which range from interactive educational sessions to guided tours, focusing on conservation and wildlife preservation. Interpretive techniques used at the zoo include storytelling, hands-on learning experiences, and immersive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. Successful community events, such as Family Fun Days, have taught valuable lessons in creating inclusive, informative and engaging experiences for diverse audiences.
Staff from both State Parks and the National Park Service attended in addition to EKO interns, for a full day of conversation around possible career paths.
Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission Meets in West Sacramento
Story from: Kevin Murphy, Communications and Marketing Division
 Left to right: Joe Stout, the new Bureau of Land Management director for California; Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division Assistant Chief Jack Gorman; Division Chief Callan McLaughlin; and Deputy Director Sarah Miggins. Top right: OHMVR staff invited members of the Greater Valley Conservation Corps to State Parks’ headquarters in Sacramento to provide information on employment opportunities with the department and to conduct mock interviews. Bottom right: OHMVR Administrative Assistant II Vicki Perez recently participated in a tour of State Parks’ SNO-Parks. Photos from OHMVR Division.
The California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Commission hosted its first public meeting of 2025 in West Sacramento on April 2. During the meeting, the Commission heard a budget update from Desiree Goyette and a legislative update from Megan Florida, in addition to a report from Heather Holm, chief of the Interpretation and Education Division. Holm highlighted the continuing success of the OHMVR Division’s public outreach efforts, including its new Beyond the Blacktop podcast. Chief Legal Counsel Tara Lynch provided a report on a recent legal decision involving Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA). Acting Oceano Dunes District Superintendent Jon O’Brien presented an air quality update for Ocean Dunes SVRA.
Planning updates were provided by General Plan Manager Katie Metraux, which included the general plans for Hungry Valley SVRA and Ocotillo Wells SVRA. In addition, Metraux provided an update for the Off-Highway Vehicle Access Initiative, which is being used to identified opportunities for additional OHV facilities in California as mandated by Senate Bill 155.
Two members were reappointed to the Commission in recent weeks. Vice Chairman Edward Patrovsky was reappointed by Senator Mike McGuire of the California Senate Rules Committee and Commissioner Patricia Ureña was reappointed by Governor Newsom. Their new terms extend their service through January 2029.
A full video recording of the Commission meeting is available at CAL-SPAN.org. While future meeting locations will be announced later, a full list of remaining meeting dates for 2025 is available on the Commission’s website. For information about the OHMVR Division, including a list of SVRAs and available grant programs, visit ohv.parks.ca.gov.
Harmony Across Time: A Celebration of Music and Railroad History
Story from: Traci Rockefeller Cusack, T-Rock Communications
 Members of the Great Wall Youth Orchestra at a previous California State Railroad Museum event. Photo from Kelly B. Huston, California State Railroad Museum volunteer.
The California State Railroad Museum will transform into a vibrant cultural stage as the Great Wall Youth Orchestra brings a unique blend of history and music to life on April 26. This special event, "Harmony Across Time," promises to connect the past and present through an immersive multi-sensory experience.
Visitors will be transported back in time as they explore the museum's historic locomotives and railcars, all while being serenaded by the rich and timeless sounds of traditional Chinese instruments. In collaboration with the Purple Silk Music Education Foundation, student musicians will perform live throughout the day, culminating in a main concert in the iconic Roundhouse.
The day begins with intimate “spot” performances scattered across the museum from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., creating an atmosphere of discovery. The highlight of the event, a grand performance at 1:30 p.m., will merge history and melody in a way that inspires awe. Following the concert, visitors are invited to meet the talented young musicians and gain a closer look at their traditional instruments.
In addition to the music, the museum offers a rich tapestry of railroad history. Guests can delve into the "Chinese Workers’ Experience" exhibit, which honors the Chinese laborers who played a crucial role in building the Transcontinental Railroad. From the famed “lost” Gold Spike to the legendary “Last Spike” painting, the museum is a treasure trove of stories that shaped the nation.
The Harmony Across Time concert is included with museum admission, making it an accessible event for all. This rare combination of live performance and historical exploration ensures a day of learning, inspiration, and cultural appreciation for visitors of all ages. For more information visit californiarailroad.museum/purplesilk.
 Members of the Great Wall Youth Orchestra at previous California State Railroad Museum event. Photo from Kelly B. Huston, California State Railroad Museum volunteer.
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PARTNER NEWS
Catch the Replay of Fireside Chat: Resilience in Action
Story from: Elizabeth Kubey, Parks California
 Thank you to everyone who tuned in to Parks California's Instagram Live on April 8. California State Parks staff working in the Wildfire Forest Resilience program joined us in conversation on wildfire resilience. Senior environmental scientists Lisa Andreano, Brooke Sheridan and Forester Azalie Welsh participated in leadership training programs as part of State Parks' partnership with Parks California.
Their training became essential this year when the Palisades Fire broke out. Lisa and Brooke were already in the Santa Monica Mountains teaching a class and Azalie traveled by air from Sacramento. During our conversation, we heard about fire's role in California's diverse habitats, how State Parks staff steward the land, how park visitors can prevent destructive fires and more.
Parks California, through our partnership, provides trainings and tools that support our state parks partners, like leadership training to help respond to catastrophic wildfires. Follow Parks California on social media and visit parkscalifornia.org for essential resources and the latest information. Listen to the full fireside chat on Parks California's Instagram and share with your community.
  Employee Spotlight: Jennifer Draa
Story from: Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division
 Jennifer Draa on the job at NORCOM and enjoying nature in her free time. Photos from Jennifer Draa, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division.
As we celebrate National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 13-19), State Parks highlights one of our employees who works tirelessly to assist visitors and staff in emergency situations.
Meet Communications Operator Jennifer Draa, who has been a dispatcher for 27 years. Jennifer is part of the Northern Communications Center (NORCOM) team and has been an incredible asset every day in NORCOM helping the public and assisting California state park peace officers and other agencies in 43 counties.
While not every call she receives has a happy ending, Jennifer finds that making a difference in helping the public and officers is very satisfying. Let’s learn a little bit more about Jennifer.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
To be able to say I helped in that rescue, or medical, etc., is very rewarding. To also have helped the officer when they needed help is rewarding. It gives you a great feeling to have helped save a life or make a situation better.
What does a typical day look like for you at work?
A typical day at work can start with a suicidal call, accidents, search warrants, deaths, Department of Fish and Wildlife animal calls and many other types of calls. Calls are always different, and you can never predict how the day will be. You just must handle whatever calls come in. It makes you feel very capable.
Can you share a project or accomplishment you’re particularly proud of?
An accomplishment I received was, I got voted as dispatcher of the year and received a trophy and praise from the officers. That was extremely satisfying.
Can you share a memorable or fun experience from your time with the department?
I used to go camping before working for parks. Since working for parks, I have gone camping so much more. It is wonderful to be able to go to the beautiful places I dispatch for and enjoy the great outdoors and meet the officers that I work for.
Do you have any advice for new employees or those looking to excel in their careers?
My advice for new employees is you really should want to do this job wholeheartedly. If you want to make a difference and find out you can do this, it Is very rewarding. It takes a special person to do this job. If you feel you could handle stressful situations and get the help that is needed to the officers and the public, you will do great.
What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?
My hobbies outside of work are camping, hiking, fishing, working out, learning new art, mosaics, painting, stained glass, traveling and gardening.
 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 the nominee's supervisor (if you know who that is).
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
Accounting Administrator I – (Sacramento) – Apply by April 17: Join our California State Parks at headquarters in Sacramento, where you will play a key role in managing complex accounting tasks. As the Bond General Ledger Accounting Lead, you will independently handle reconciliations across 32 funding sources, including Prop 68, and collaborate with top departments and agencies. You will also lead the Prop 68 financial adjustments and expenditure database, ensuring accurate reporting in the Agency Bonds Consolidated Reporting System. This is an exciting opportunity to take charge of high-impact financial operations in a fast-paced environment! Apply today! Click here to learn more!
Staff Services Analyst (Tuolumne County) – Apply by April 22: Join us at Columbia State Historic Park as a key team member under the State Park Interpreter III! You will dive into contract analysis, prepare Service and Public Works Agreements, and collaborate with contractors and HQ in Sacramento. Use your skills with Fi$Cal and Microsoft programs while helping guide the contracting process. It’s an exciting opportunity to make an impact in a historic setting! Click here to learn more!
Restoration Architect (Sacramento) – Apply by April 26: Join the Office of Historic Preservation in Sacramento, under the general supervision of the Deputy State Historic Preservation. As a Restoration Architect, you will play a key role in the state-wide review of the federal Historic Tax Incentives Program and provide professional architectural support for various federal and state programs. With expertise in the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, ADA, and the California Historical Building Code (CHBC), you will contribute to preserving California's rich history. A valid architectural certificate from the California State Board or the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards is required for this impactful role. Click here to learn more!
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Senior State Archeologist (April 18): Apply to take the Senior State Archeologist assessment today! Step into a leadership role where you will oversee a dynamic team of professionals with the Cultural Resources Division You will take charge of challenging technical decisions, develop and implement cultural resource programs, and offer expert solutions to cultural resource challenges. If you’re ready to lead with creativity and make a real impact, this is your chance to shine! Click here for more information.
Communications Operator Series (May 1): Interested in keeping our beloved California State Parks safe? As a Communication Operator, you will respond to emergency calls, dispatch units as needed and collaborate with other agencies to effectively address critical situations. You will access and utilize vital data to make informed decisions, track incidents, and coordinate timely responses to emergencies. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a fast-paced, high-impact environment while supporting the safety and well-being of the community. Click here for more information.
WORKSHOP SPOTLIGHT:
Join our upcoming virtual webinars to learn about exciting job opportunities with California State Parks. Learn more about the job application process, assessments, and the state hiring process. Our recruiters will provide guidance on how to succeed in the hiring process and answer any questions you may have. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights and take the first step toward your career! Learn more, find upcoming dates, and how to register by clicking here! The next webinar is Wednesday, April 23. See you there!
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:
- geographic regions: Minimize use of uppercase, except for specific regions or popular place names, such as Northern California, West Coast and the Bay Area.
- mountaintop: One word.
- one-on-one: Spell out rather than use numerals
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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 Año Nuevo State Park
Santa Cruz District state park peace officer staff meeting. Top row (left to right): Byran Kine, Joe Connors, Scott Sipes, Don Crouthamel and Ziad Bawarshi. Bottom row (left to right): Jackie Jurek, David Williams, Arlene Shaffer, Gabe McKenna, Mike McMenamy, Andrew Dobbs, Camerron Weaver, Stan Kopacz, Micah Moore, Kevin Ward, Trevor Morgan, Barbara Morris, Tyler Knapp, Ethan Cunningham, Ron Friedman, Jordy Malmberg, Brian Menter, Ben Allan and James Weber. Not Pictured: Josh Stone, Andrew Filous, Tyler Malloy, Tyler Leamer and Joe Walters.
Photo from Santa Cruz District
 University of California, Los Angeles
Employer Resumé Day inside the Career Center at UCLA. An incredible opportunity for students to ask specific questions and gain insights to make their resumés stand out to hiring managers. Students were able to sit one-on-one with prospective employers and receive feedback on their resumés as well as ask questions. Pictured is Angeles District Administrative Chief Jacoub Mahshi.
Photo from Cassandra Chavez, Angeles District
 Providence Mountains State Recreation Area
Cartoons have promoted the greater roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus) as huge, purple, goofy birds. Wrong. They are relatively small, clever, and serious predators. Our park trail camera recorded a roadrunner after it caught a small bird. Because they must swallow prey whole, these miniature dinosaurs will bash their prey against rocks to make sure it is deceased, as well as break its bones for easier swallowing.
Video from Andrew Fitzpatrick, Inland Empire District
 Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve
This side-blotched lizard challenged me to a push-up contest. Spoiler alert: he won.
Photo from Matthew Williams, Great Basin District
 Trione-Annadel State Park
While out by Ledson Marsh, Park and Recreation Specialist Sammy Reyes found a small rattlesnake hiding in a burned-out stump.
Photo from Mike Nelson, Bay Area District
Editor's note: Rattlesnakes are an important part of the native ecosystem and are protected within parks. If you encounter one on the hiking trail or in the park, please let it slither away and inform park staff if you are able. Be alert: Snakes are observed year-round. However, most sightings occur in the spring and summer months. If bitten, remain calm and call 911.
Delta Meadows Property
A peaceful day in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.
Photo from Robyn Krock, Partnership Division
 Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area
A small palm gazing at its reflection.
Photo from Alex Napier, Ocotillo Wells District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Manzanita flowers with raindrops.
Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
A stack of lenticular clouds over the desert.
Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 South Yuba River State Park
Bridgeport Covered Bridge.
Photo from Joseph Sebastian, Cultural Resources Division
 Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds
Night sky over the Monterey coast.
Photo from Matthew Burns, Gold Fields District
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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, April 12
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Sheep Shearing Day—Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: How does wool come off sheep? How does raw wool turn into yarn? Come to the Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and find out! Heritage breed sheep from local farm animal rescue Flat Broke Farm will be losing their winter coats under the expert guidance of shearer John Sanchez. After the sheep are sheared, you can have fun learning how to turn the raw wool into yarn, the first steps to making a sweater. Volunteers will teach how to card and drop spin wool as rancho workers would have in the 1830s. Docents will be on site to give guided tours, so bring a picnic and spend the day at the Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park. Admission fee: $3.00 for adults 18 and older, children 6 to 17 are $2.00, 5 and under are free. Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park is located at 3325 Adobe Road on the east side of Petaluma. California State Parks supports equal access. Prior to arrival, visitors with disabilities who need assistance should contact: Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park at (707) 762-4871.
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SpringFest at Bridgeport—South Yuba River State Park, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.: SpringFest at Bridgeport is an annual event celebrating the natural history of the South Yuba River. There will be wildflower walks, games and activities, live music, keynote speakers, a snack bar with drinks and light fare, and plenty of nature to enjoy. This event will be happening during peak wildflower season, so there is sure to be plenty of wildflowers to see! Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch.
Sunday, April 13, 20, and 27
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Eadweard Muybridge Tours—Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park, noon – 1 p.m.: Celebrate Sacramento Photography Month with an exclusive Eadweard Muybridge Tour inside the Leland Stanford Mansion, where the brilliant but disturbed photographer and the former governor made history together. Look through the lens of one of photography's pioneers. See the groundbreaking work of Muybridge, whose innovative techniques revolutionized the art form. Delve into his mesmerizing motion studies and iconic landscapes, while discovering the rich cultural heritage housed within the opulent walls of this historic landmark. Don't miss this rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the intersection of art, history, and technology, as we examine the contributions of photographic artist Eadweard Muybridge. Reserve your free tour here.
Thursday, April 17
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Watershed Walk & Bird Talk—Doheny State Beach, 9–10 a.m.: Meet at the Doheny lifeguard station on the sand and join us for an exciting walk along the San Juan Creek for an interpretive nature talk on the local shorebirds of Doheny Beach and the watershed that ends here. Bringing a hat, sunscreen, water, snacks, and close-toed shoes is highly recommended. Rain cancels.
Park Visitor Thanks Sierra District for New Bridge at South Yuba River State Park
I want to say that I am impressed by the new bridge [on the Buttermilk Bend Trail] - your guys did a great job and it looks like it will last a long time. Lots of wildflowers out now - and looks like one of the better flower years - and we met many people on the trail. Thanks for keeping after this important fix.
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April 7, 2025:
April 9, 2025:
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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 use this submission form or click the button above.
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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