Cabrillo National Monument VIP Newsletter | |
September 2022 Updates for VIPs | |
Don't Forget to Log Your Hours! | |
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VIPs, Save the Date!
Annual Volunteer Recognition Event Scheduled for October 22nd
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Please join us for this year's VIP Recognition Rendezvous on Saturday, October 22nd at 5:30pm, where we can celebrate and thank you all for your enduring service and dedication. Each year, our volunteers provide us with the most valuable thing they can give us- their time. This is a small token of appreciation for all the service you provide to us here at Cabrillo National Monument.
We continue to keep health and safety in mind, so this year's recognition event will once again be hosted at the monument outdoors. Bring a lawn chair to enjoy the sunset together and some soft music. Food will be provided by Cabrillo National Monument Foundation. Stay after sunset to enjoy Jupiter and Saturn with us, hosted by the San Diego Astronomy Foundation!
Please make sure you have logged your hours contributing to this fiscal year onto Volgistics, as it will affect distribution of recognition items. RSVP to the event by Friday, October 7th.
NPS Photo | P. Geisler
Banner created from collage of photos taken at last year's annual VIP recognition event in September. Pictures included VIPs enjoying time chatting together and with staff, as well as grabbing treats from the food table. The banner reads, "VIP Recognition Rendezvous 2022."
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- Annual VIP Recognition Event
- How Did We Shine? Program Returns
- Extended Hours Done For The Season
- VIP Spotlight: Brian MacDonald
- VIP Kudos: Facebook Comment
- Volunteer Navigation Committee Updates
- Organizational Chart and All Employee Meeting
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- National Public Lands Day Events
- Celebrate America's National Parks and the Dedication of Those Who Serve Ceremony
- Hartzog Award Recipients History Interactive Map
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How Did We Shine? Program
Returns Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 6th!
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We are pleased to announce that the How Did We Shine? Program, which began in April 2016, is being re-established. The program is supervised by Volunteer Coordinator, Ranger Sandy.
For those who have recently joined us, the program is open to all park employees, volunteers, and partner members (including Cabrillo National Monument Foundation) at Cabrillo National Monument. It allows these individuals and park visitors to nominate those whom they believe were exceptional in their interaction among themselves and the public.
The program is managed by a selected volunteer, the How Did We Shine Program Coordinator, who is supervised by the Volunteer Coordinator. The How Did We Shine Program Coordinator is currently Peter Lee Tancredi.
Nomination forms will be available at the Visitors Center and Entrance Station beginning Tuesday, September 6th. Staff and volunteers are encouraged to provide nomination forms when they are aware of outstanding work being done. Please take the time to nominate a fellow volunteer or staff member, as well. If more forms are needed, please check in with the ranger on duty at the Visitor Center.
Completed forms are to be placed in the designated folders in the two locations and picked up bi-monthly by the program coordinator. All completed forms are reviewed by Superintendent, Andrea Compton, and distributed to the nominees and their supervisor. Furthermore, all individuals who make nominations and provide an email or USPS address will be provided a thank you.
Please reach out to cabr_volunteers@nps.gov with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
VIP Peter Lee Tancredi, How Did We Shine? Program Coordinator
Ranger Sandy, Cabrillo Volunteer Coordinator
Thank you to VIP Peter-Lee for the dedication and passion to make this happen again. It will be a great initiative for recognition from visitors, but also one another. Forms available in the Visitor Center, Entrance Station, but also available online. Save the QR code below for easy access to the online form! You can have folks scan it.
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Flyer created with NPS Photos | C. Aurrecoechea
Flyer reads, "How Did We Shine? Did you receive exceptional service from one of the park rangers, employees, or volunteers today? We’d appreciate if you would take a moment to complete a How Did We Shine? form at the Visitor Center Information Desk, so we can let them know. Forms also available online. Thank you for visiting Cabrillo National Monument!" There is a QR code visible for the online form, as well as a series of logos for the National Park Service, Volunteers-In-Parks program, and Cabrillo National Monument Foundation. At the bottom of collage of images feature Ranger Sandy at the tidepools, VIP Mohamad doing Weed Warriors work, Greenhouse VIP Supervisor Patricia showing off amazing soil, Ranger Bri holding a snake, VIP Gary in action at the 16th century life of a soldier table, and Science Educator Sam doing her weekly snake talk.
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Extended Hours Done For The Season | |
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This weekend marked the end of our extended sunset hours. On Labor Day and onward, Cabrillo National Monument will continue to be open daily from 9am to 5pm.
What other places in San Diego do you enjoy watching the sunset from?
Photo by VIP Kim | Trees frame the image of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse's lens and lantern in the distance. The historical 38 star flag also waves in the frame.
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VIP Spotlight:
Brian MacDonald
"VIP Brian MacDonald is a fixture at TPERP on busy weekends. He drives a long way on his precious weekend for Cabrillo. Brian is always hiking up & down the Coastal trail, picking up trash along the way and engaging in conversation with our visitors. He is our muscle to pick up heavy debris from the Tidepool- once, he hauled up a really heavy boat battery.
With his quiet demeaner and modesty, it’s hard to tell how much he loves the park, but the way he takes care and protects the tidepools is hard to miss. There's a joy to him being here. He is naturally good with talking to our visitors without any pretentiousness or aggression- TPERP VIP supervisor, Pauline, and other staff would eagerly vouch that. Brian is very handy for closing shifts, too. Once you get to know him, one can realize he has a sense of humor, though I have to ask if he is joking.
He also has volunteered for Special Events- placing cones, directing runners, etc. Once we volunteered for a 5K run event, pre-pandemic, and I was quite impressed with the way he perfectly placed cones (not that I am an expert on placement of cones, but…). He said he used to run, so he knows where to place the cones at a curve. Brian may be quiet, but it's a good thing considering everyone can gracefully hear the sound of waves, birds, and the whispering of our vegetation. I’ll say Brian is in harmony with Cabrillo National Monument."
Thank you to VIP Romi for this month's thoughtful nomination.
Brian is definitely a joy to have around and all our Cabrillo family can attest to that. I can also personally vouch that I have seen first-hand how much Brian has a love for the outdoors and our national parks. I always happily answer his Yosemite questions- they help me recall the beautiful memories I have from the four and half years I worked there. I have also seen him walking out of the tide pools carrying a rusty sink in his hands- HA!
Thank you, Brian, for your continued dedication to Cabrillo National Monument.
NPS Photo | C. Aurrecoechea
VIP Brian roving alongside the coastal trail in full volunteer uniform and TPERP backpack- his back to us. In the background, pelicans fly in the air over the blue, ocean water.
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VIP Kudos
Ranger Elizabeth sent over a great comment that was submitted to the National Park Service Employees Facebook page which has over 10,000 employees. It says:
“Thanks CABR for the excellent service today. Picked up my annual pass, kid got a Jr. Ranger badge, and your volunteers were rocking. It was busy but everyone was amazing, even so close to closing. It made our afternoon as my mom relived when she worked for the association and I got to tell my kiddo of my YCC and WG days. My first WG-2 job was at CABR. It was nice to get to let my little one do a fun Jr Ranger badge while our family is visiting from CO to visit my hometown. I was YCC 1993-1995 and YCC crew leader (fed) summer of 1996." - From Victoria Smith-Campbell, currently employed with the US Forest Service.
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“My family and I enjoyed the Bayside Trail along the Cabrillo National Monument at 1430 on Sunday xx July, with Mr Gary Reilly. I wanted to let you know how great an experience we had. Gary was highly knowledgeable about the history, geology, and ecology of Point Loma, which my sister (who is studying biology and geology at university) and I (studying for a PhD in war studies) appreciated. He was entertaining, friendly yet highly professional. We would be grateful if you could pass on our compliments to Gary and our thanks to the wider Park team.” - From a visitor
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Let's keep it going! Thinking of a fellow volunteer who deserves to be celebrated? Send us your kudos and spotlights to the link below, so we can share them in the next newsletter, and celebrate each other together! | |
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NPS Photo | P. Geisler
VIPs, including the Tams, Mona, Patrick, Katrina, Brian, the Burtons, and others, all pose after the June 2019 annual tidepool clean-up. The slope up to the Whale Watch Overlook could be seen in the background, covered in coastal vegetation.
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Volunteer Navigation Committee (VNC) Updates
The VNC elected new Board members with VIPs Dan Wieder as Chair, Mohamad Yassin as Vice-Chair, and Eve Jones Burton as Recording Secretary.
Our next VNC meeting will be held on October 1 at 9am.
This will be a hybrid meeting with both an in-person in the auditorium, as well as through a virtual option via Zoom. Watch for details later this month!
The VNC is currently working on creating standardized training content for volunteers who want to work at the lighthouse. The next training that we will be tackling will be the Visitor Center along with the Cabrillo Exhibit and Auditorium. If you are interested in helping develop this training please send an email to cabr_volunteers@nps.gov.
We will also be developing an E-library of content (from several sources) that has been previously recorded, to be used as a Continuing Education tool.
All volunteers are welcome to join in! You can RSVP by signing up on Volgistics for the next meeting. Never attended a VNC meeting but would like to give it a try? Email
cabr_volunteers@nps.gov so we ensure you are able to sign up on Volgistics.
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So, why would you need a committee run by volunteers—isn’t that just one more thing to add to your already full to-do list, and yet another meeting to attend? The Volunteer Navigation Committee (VNC) is so much more than just another committee and another meeting. The group provides volunteers with a voice in the decision-making processes related to the VIP program at CNM. See you at the next meeting!
NPS Photo | Seven smiling volunteers take a selfie in front of the Assistant Keeper's Quarters.
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Annual TPERP Conference Later This Month!
RSVP REQUIRED
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“We ourselves feel like what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean, but the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.” -- Mother Teresa
RSVP TODAY! Want to learn more about Cabrillo’s shorebirds? Wondering just how many people visit Cabrillo’s coastal area? Have questions about the marine mammals that call our shores home? Ever wonder what the thermal image of a crab looks like? Want to learn how to take some epic wildlife pictures?
Join us for the annual Tidepool Protection, Education, and Restoration Program (TPERP) Conference on September 17th at 10am - 4pm in the park auditorium (lunch will be provided and check-in starts at 9:30am). The conference is open to all volunteers, not just TPERPers. We have a wonderful series of speakers set-up for this event. Sign up for the conference in Volgistics under Continuing Education/Training.
Deadline to sign-up is September 10th. An RSVP is required for this event, since space is limited. See you there!
Please email cabr_volunteers@nps.gov if you have any questions, concerns, or need any accommodations.
| Graphic that reads, "Checklist for TPERP Conference." A checkmark shows in the beginning of each of the following items: Shorebirds, coastal area visitation, marine mammals, thermal imagine, photography, and safety. In the background is an image of cliffs seen from the Coastal trail. Seagulls decorate the image. | | | |
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Cabrillo Organizational Chart &
Next All Employee Meeting
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We have had a lot of recent staffing changes in the park since the last newsletter. For your convenience, please see the organizational chart above for Cabrillo National Monument. Interviews for a few of these positions should be beginning soon (example: Supervisory Rec. Fee Tech and Resources Management & Sciences Program Manager).
Our volunteers continue to be resilient to these changes and for that, we thank you! Our management team is currently working on trying to fill vacant and acting roles. Please continue to communicate with your VIP supervisor with any questions, needs, or concerns.
Want an opportunity to meet some of our Cabrillo staff?
Attend the next all employee meeting:
Wednesday, September 7th at 1pm in Lower Maintenance.
Image: Colorful informational chart divides different park divisions/work groups and is titled, "Cabrillo National Monument Organizational Chart."
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Mental Health Resources for Volunteers
Volunteer-specific resource list now available! Click below! WASO VIP partnered with the Wellness and Resilience Branch in the Office of Risk to create a list of volunteer-focused mental health resources, which is now available to you all!
"Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of courage."
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Clear Radio Communication for Speedy Responses
This safety message addresses two events that have occurred recently at the park: cardiac emergency and a missing person. In both cases, clear communication is necessary for speedy responses!
In the event of a cardiac emergency:
- Have a responder stay with the person experiencing a cardiac emergency
- Contact Law Enforcement (LE)
- If no LE rangers are on duty, tell 799 to call Federal Fire, and another person to bring a first aid kit and AED. Prime locations for these items include the Visitor Center, Entrance Station, and TPERP trailer.
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Provide care to the extent of your training until a more qualified person (e.g. LE, EMT, Paramedic) takes over.
In the event of a missing person:
- Contact LE
- Keep the reporting party with you until LE arrives; get their name, address and phone number
- Get a description of the missing person: name, age, description, time and place of last contact, level of familiarity with the park, mental state, and pertinent medical conditions
Note: If the person is vulnerable, and there is no LE, restrict outgoing park traffic and contact the Chief Ranger (200) or Superintendent (100)
- Contact 799 to make a PA announcement; delegate search tasks to park staff
NPS Photo | C. Aurrecoechea
VIP Scott holds a radio up in the air excitedly after it was recovered in the tidepools.
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Stay Safe In A Heat Wave
We have been having excessive heat warnings in San Diego County coastal areas with temperatures up to 95. Extreme heat can significantly increase the potential of heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. Remember to be heat wave safe and anticipate any dangers:
- Avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid heavy exertion. Remember to rest often and look for shade as needed.
- Stay cool. Remember, you can always take a break in the auditorium where there is air-conditioning or ask staff for access to the break room in the admin building.
- Lighten up. Eat regular, light meals or snacks. Wear lightweight clothing.
- Protect yourself. Wear sunscreen, sun glasses, and hats as needed.
If you think you or someone you are with is not feeling well, please radio Law Enforcement or 799 for assistance.
NPS Photo | C. Aurrecoechea
Coastal Trail plots.
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Interpretation, Education, & Volunteers | |
Naturalization Ceremonies | |
Naturalization Ceremonies continue on Tuesdays throughout 2022!
The next Naturalization Ceremonies will be Tuesday, September 27th. We currently have NO volunteers signed up. Please sign up if you are available. Thank you for your continued commitment to the Naturalization Ceremonies!
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NPS Photo |
Drive-thru naturalization ceremony at Cabrillo.
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Never volunteered at these ceremonies but would like to give it a try? Email cabr_volunteers@nps.gov so we can provide more details and ensure you are able to sign up!
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NPS Photo | C. Aurrecoechea
VIP Susie in the Kitchen Garden with an information table, engaging with a group of children.
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Volunteer Program Updates | |
Our new Community Volunteer Ambassador, Hannah, should begin working with us this upcoming Monday, September 12th! Hannah will be with us for a year interning as our Volunteer Program Assistant, with focus on recruitment and establishing a larger volunteer group program in our park. We will all get to meet Hannah soon!
In October, the VIP program will be focusing on end of year statistics, annual VIP paperwork renewal, and the recognition event. Yes, it's that time of year when we want to make sure you all renew your volunteer paperwork to make sure you are well protected while you are out volunteering in the park. Stay tuned!
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Other Updates
Ranger Amanda is Acting Visitor Services Program Manager until further notice.
A regional Public Affairs Fellow, Savannah, is going to be helping us with a digital media project- an audio tour of the interior of the lighthouse. We hope to connect Savannah with VNC members and VIPs for their expertise.
Ranger Amanda is currently the only uniformed staff in our division working on Tuesdays. A call for Visitor Center (VC) support from VIPs was sent out for that day. Interested in learning more about volunteering in the Visitor Center? Please reach out to VC VIP supervisor, Ranger Sandy for more information (cabr_volunteers@nps.gov).
DRONES! As part of the Gatchell road monitoring there will be Drone Flights at the following dates and times:
- Monday September 12th, 5:00 PM to as late as 7:30 PM
- Tuesday September 13th, 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, and 4:00 PM to as late as 7:30 PM
- Wednesday September 14th, 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM
NPS Photo | C. Aurrecoechea
Close up on Shaw's Agave.
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Resources Management & Science | |
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Fire and fuel management completed at Ballast View.
Lonie, Weed Warriors VIP Supervisor, on leave. Returning 9/19.
It's September and we are getting closer to tidepool season. In preparation, there are new informational A-frames displayed in the park, including one in front of the Visitor Center. Check it out!
News regarding the new trail: originally scheduled to be built this fall, the work on the new trail has been postponed to April 2023 to accommodate the Joshua Tree trail crew availabilities and allow for compliance work to be finished up.
Interviews for the program manager position should be commencing soon.
NPS Photo | C. Aurrecoechea
TPERP Advisory Board members sit around a table at Lower Maintenance.
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Over 500 plants were salvaged in the new trail path. Thank you Greenhouse VIPs!
New tables and new sprinkler system coming to the greenhouse soon.
Seed collection is winding down (still some late season plants will need to be collected in the winter) and planting season will be starting soon.
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NPS Photo | C. Aurrecoechea
VIP Greg watering plants at greenhouse.
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Volunteer Opportunity:
National Public Lands Day 9/24/22
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National Public Lands Day is a fee free day, so we are expecting a lot of Junior Rangers and families! Our park will be hosting an activity table throughout the day with a special Junior Ranger pledge to our public lands. The activity table will be located in the breezeway in front of the Visitor Center. This will also be a great opportunity to recruit new volunteers. Please join us in hosting the table by signing up for shifts on Volgistics- listed as a Special Event. Come help us and show your support!
Join us Saturday, September 24th from 10am - 4pm!
Weed Warriors VIP Supervisor, Lonie, will also be hosting a Weed Warriors session from 9am to 12pm that morning that will be open to all! Interested in expanding your VIP assignments? This will be a great opportunity to test out if Weed Warriors is a good fit for you!
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NEEF | National Public Lands Day Banner
Multicolored banner reads, "9/24/22 is the day for giving back together. NEEF (NEEF logo), National Public Lands Day. There are two images of people smiling and enjoying the outdoors together. There are two separate images of people giving back to public lands through service of ocean (taking out tire together from beach water) and land (picking up trash and placing it in bags together) clean-up.
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Celebrate America's National Parks and the Dedication of Those Who Serve Ceremony | |
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Award recipients pose with NPS Director Sams following the ceremony. Some hold their rewards, some in uniform. The Washington Monument could be seen in the background on the left.
NPS | K. Graczyk
| News Release Date: August 25, 2022 Contact: NewsMedia@nps.gov A variety of National Park Service (NPS) employees, volunteers and partners were honored yesterday at a ceremony to Celebrate America's National Parks and the Dedication of Those Who Serve. Many of the agency's top awards were presented at the event sponsored by NPS and its philanthropic partner the National Park Foundation. | | | |
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New Resource Available:
Hartzog Award Recipients History Interactive Map
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Can You Spot Cabrillo National Monument? | |
"As part of the 2022 National Park Service Founders Day activities, the WASO VIP team has released an interactive map highlighting current and previous national recipients of the George and Helen Hartzog Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service. The map provides a geographic overview of where recipients are located with links to information about them.
Special thanks go out to Jake Coolidge and James McAndrew with the National Park Service Enterprise Development Services who loaned their outstanding talents to create the interactive map."
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Your help is needed! We have had a few people respond saying they want to help but we need more people to help. Please consider sharing your knowledge to help the entire volunteer program. Volunteers-In-Parks (VIPs) are a significant part of park operations. You do what needs to be done, whether in the tidepools, the Visitor... | | | |
Women of Our National Parks | Welcome, new neighbor, to the National Park Service way of life! You are married to a very special man, or you would not be reading this letter. The Park Service challenges men who are intelligent, able to communicate and get along with people, and who also have a special love for our USA wonderlands, the... | | | | | | | |
