California State Parks welcomes 32 new peace officers at graduation ceremony

California State Parks celebrated the graduation of 32 cadets on Friday, April 11.

These dedicated individuals completed eight months of rigorous training and are ready to “Live the Parks Life” as State Park peace officers, joining the nation's largest state park system.

From the program's start on Sept. 3, 2024, the cadets have shown unwavering commitment to protecting California’s natural and cultural treasures. Their journey exemplifies this year’s motto: “Water and Land, Together We Stand,” reflecting their dedication to safeguarding the state’s diverse landscapes and waterways for future generations.

“California congratulates the 32 new state park rangers and lifeguards who will now serve in 13 parks across the state. I thank these dedicated individuals for their valuable public service — ensuring our parks remain enjoyable and safe destinations for all Californians,” said California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

The graduation ceremony marked the culmination of a 32-week Basic Visitor Service Training Academy.

The graduates officially received their badges in front of their family, friends and department staff, watching in person and virtually. With this milestone, they now embark on careers dedicated to serving, protecting and educating visitors across California’s 280 state parks.

“We welcome 32 new guardians of California’s most cherished places,” said State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “These men and women have not only trained hard, but they have chosen a life of service, of standing in the gap between preservation and destruction, between safety and danger. They will be the steady hands guiding lost hikers home, the first responders in times of crisis, and the storytellers who connect us to our past. Their duty is not just a job, but a promise to protect the lands and waters that define who we are as Californians.”

This year’s graduating Basic Visitor Service Training Academy 50 class includes 27 rangers and five lifeguards, selected from a competitive pool of approximately 830 applicants.

Their assignments span the state, from the North Coast Redwoods to the Central Valley, Santa Cruz, Orange Coast and Inland Empire districts.

The cadets’ training was extensive, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges ahead. Key areas of instruction included:

• Strategic communication and de-escalation techniques.
• Physical arrests and defensive tactics.
• Search and rescue operations.
• Investigation techniques.
• Visitor services, public education and interpretation.
• Park resource protection and management.
• Firearms training and first aid.

The program’s rigorous curriculum also prepared the cadets for the next stage of their journey: a 13-week Field Training Officer Program, where they will gain hands-on, on-the-job training.

Start your own journey

Want to “Live the Parks Life”? Explore a rewarding career with California State Parks. Visit LiveTheParksLife.com for more information on the academy, including requirements, frequently asked questions and the recruitment timeline. Click on the “CA State Park Peace Officer Cadet Academy Exams (Ranger/Lifeguard)” link to start your journey.

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Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS

Published: 16 April 2025

Thompson announces 2025 Lake County Climate Crisis Champion

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — On Sunday, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced that Clear Lake Environmental Research Center, or CLERC, was chosen as the 2025 Lake County Climate Crisis Champion.

Each year, Rep. Thompson recognizes community members across California’s Fourth Congressional District to honor for their outstanding efforts to address our ongoing climate crisis.

“The Clear Lake Environmental Research Center has been at the forefront of Lake County community’s fire prevention and fight against climate change,” said Thompson. “CLERC has made significant contributions to the Lake County community through their commitment to advancing environmental resilience, wildfire prevention and climate action. The center has established a team of over a dozen professionals with expertise in biology, fire science, water resource management, and more who are essential in the center’s mission. This organization is an excellent example of a local science-based group working for the betterment of their community and our environment. I am honored to recognize them as a Climate Crisis Champion.”

Rep. Thompson was honored to award this year’s Climate Crisis Champions across each of our five counties in the 4th District: Lake, Napa, Solano, Sonoma and Yolo.

Champions are selected for their significant efforts to combat our continuing climate crisis and protect our environment at home in our communities.

Through their advocacy, Climate Crisis Champions are helping to build a more sustainable future for all.

This year’s venue, Crocker & Starr, is an industry leader in environmental awareness and winery sustainability. Being a Napa Certified Green Winery is at the core of Crocker & Starr as they have always strived to be good stewards of the land.

A complete list of 2025 Climate Crisis Champions include:

• Clear Lake Environmental Research Center – 2025 Lake County Climate Crisis Champion.
• Gustavo Aviña – 2025 Napa County Climate Crisis Champion.
• Justina Salinas – 2025 Solano County Climate Crisis Champion.
• Robert Ashe – 2025 Sonoma County Climate Crisis Champion.
• Yocha Dehe Chairman Anthony Roberts – 2025 Yolo County Climate Crisis Champion.

Thompson is proud to represent California’s Fourth Congressional District, which includes all or part of Lake, Napa, Solano, Sonoma and Yolo counties.

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Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS

Published: 15 April 2025

City of Lakeport opens applications for 2025 safe and sane fireworks sales permits

LAKEPORT, Calif. — The city of Lakeport is now accepting applications from qualified nonprofit organizations for a permit to sell safe and sane fireworks for the 2025 season.

Applications must be submitted in writing on forms provided by the city and delivered to the City Clerk's Office no later than 5 p.m. April 30.

Application forms are available here, at City Clerk’s Office at Lakeport City Hall, 225 Park St., or by request via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Key points for applicants:

• The permits are for Lakeport nonprofits only. Applying organizations must have a membership of at least 20 members who either reside in the city, are employed in the city, or are owners or operators of a business or other establishment located in the city.

• Only one application per nonprofit organization is allowed. Multiple or transferred applications will be voided.

• Up to four permits will be issued citywide.

• If more than four qualified applications are received, priority will be given to nonprofits with continuous permits since 2007; remaining permits will be awarded by random drawing.

• Qualified applicants that are not selected will be placed on a waiting list for future opportunities.

If approved, applicants must submit the following supporting documents by June 1:

• Proof of stand location and permission from property owner.
• State Fire Marshal retail sales permit.
• Liability insurance certificate naming the City as additional insured.
• Temporary sales tax permit from the California State Board of Equalization.

At least one representative from each permitted nonprofit must attend a fireworks safety seminar coordinated by the Lakeport Fire Department and the fireworks wholesaler. Failure to attend will result in revocation of the permit.

Applicants will be notified of the status of their applications by May 1.

The City Council reserves the right to suspend fireworks sales in the event of a declared wildfire-related state of emergency.

For questions or to request an application form, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 707-263-5615 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS

Published: 15 April 2025

CHP honors public safety dispatchers during National Telecommunicators Week

The California Highway Patrol is honoring its public safety dispatchers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, which takes place April 13 to 19, to celebrate their extensive contributions to public safety.

“Each day, our public safety dispatchers stand as the first line of support for California’s communities and our officers in the field,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Their calm, professionalism, compassion and unwavering commitment under pressure save lives and keep us all safe. We honor these extraordinary individuals whose voices guide us through our darkest moments and whose dedication exemplifies the very best of public service.”

CHP dispatchers are trained to handle high-pressure situations, whether coordinating responses to traffic crashes, natural disasters or other emergencies. Without their commitment, devotion and hard work, countless lives and properties would be in jeopardy.

With each new crisis, dispatchers are an indispensable link between our officers, the public and vital support services, ensuring the right resources are deployed swiftly and effectively.

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is a nationally recognized week designated by Congress to honor and show appreciation for those who perform telecommunications-related duties.

In recognition of their importance, Assembly Bill 1945, signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2020, officially classified public safety dispatchers as first responders — a well-deserved acknowledgment of their vital work behind the scenes.

The CHP operates 24 Communications Centers across California and employs nearly 800 public safety operators and dispatchers. In 2024 alone, CHP dispatchers answered more than 5.8 million calls for service, which included 3.9 million 9-1-1 calls.

In an emergency, every second counts. If you need to call 9-1-1, remember to stay calm, speak clearly and follow the dispatcher’s instructions — they will be there to help you.

The CHP seeks individuals ready to serve as public safety dispatchers and operators. If you have strong communication skills, can stay calm under pressure and are committed to helping others, this may be your opportunity.

To learn more and view upcoming hiring events, visit CHPBeTheVoice.com. 

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of safety, service and security.

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Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS

Published: 15 April 2025