MLK Day Comes with Free State Park Admission
John Palminteri
SANTA BARARA COUNTY, Calif. (KEYT) – Central Coast State Parks were busier today with a benefit to go along with the celebration of the national holiday to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced the fee-free day to park and beach users after it was deleted as a free day across the naional by President Donald Trump last month.
In California, there was free access at more than 200 participating locations. A message was posted on social media.
“I’m encouraging all Californians to get outside on MLK Day, spend time in nature, reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, and reaffirm our commitment to advancing civil rights for all,” the Governor said.
On the Central Coast the sites will include La Purisima State Park and Mission, Carpinteria State Beach, Emma Wood State Beach, El Capitan Beach and Refugio Beach.
Niki Mazatoli was a beach visitor with his family and said, ” growing up on the east coast, we had big sandy beaches but not big sandy beaches and those mountains right there. It’s very , very special.”
For some it was already going to be a day at the beach, and they came in from inland areas including Santa Clarita. That’s more than an hour away.
“All of our kid’s best friends, we kinda sent of a text. Some decided this morning that they are coming,” said Aimee Sztapka, a beach visitor who was coordinating some of the day’s activities.”
The area has a city beach and a state beach. The city beach is often referred to as the “World’s Safest Beach.” Mazatoli was nearby and said, “the state amenities are really nice. The bathrooms close to the campground, a bike path for the kids., it is quite nice here .”
It was a good day for a free day, and not a rainy or gloomy January day.
“We love Carp because it is quiet and the kids have the best day ever. Look at this weather we got very lucky today. It can end up being cloudy and it ended up being beautiful,” said Sztapka.
The Governor was hoping those who were enjoying nature were also reflecting on the words and messages of peace from Dr. King.
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