FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 21, 2006

Contact: Rouvaishyana, Manager, Museum of Natural History, MBSP (805) 772-2694 ext. 105 Ray Easton, Docent CCNHA (805) 528-7874

Join California State Parks for the 5th Annual Summer Solstice Celebration in Morro Bay State Park

            Morro Bay, CA: A “Summer Solstice Celebration” returns for a fifth year at the campgrounds in Morro Bay State Park.  Inspired by summer solstice festivities practiced by cultures around the world, including local Native American traditions, State Park Docents Ray Easton and Tyra Solomon have planned two events.

On Friday, June 23, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., docents will lead a program of Native American activities including a welcoming ceremony, campfire stories, a “Summer Solstice Sunset Stroll” and a telescopic peek at the heavens, weather permitting. Park campers and museum affiliates are invited to participate and are encouraged to bring their drums, rattles, clappers, and join the merry making.

    The gala event, free to the general public, takes place on Saturday, June 24; from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Plans include a variety of displays and interactive exhibits. Docents will discuss examples of Chumash artifacts and native plant usage. Handicraft activities, storytelling, puppet shows will share the spotlight with live music, live animals and nature walks. After the grand finale of song and dance, participates will leave the festivities with a brightly decorated tote bag filled with handmade treasures and memories of the day that the “sun stands still.”

           Parking for participants will be along State Park Road or at the Marina, from where it is a short walk to the Morro Bay campground picnic area.  The public is invited to the festivities, and encouraged to invite family and friends. Spread the news to your community. Let’s support this fun-filled tradition. For more information please contact Rouvaishyana, Manager of the Museum of Natural History at (805) 772-2694, ext. 105 or visit the website at www.slostateparks.com.