With around 8,000 species living in California, beetles represent the largest and most diverse group of organisms in this US state and are an excellent subject for study because they can be found almost everywhere-in gardens, forests, backyards, mountains, and deserts. Beetles of environmental, economic, and paleontological interest will be highlighted. Cutting-edge and relevant entomological topics as well as general interest topics such as beetle photography, rearing, and collecting will be discussed. Endangered beetle species, invasive species, and economically important beetle species are the focus of intense controversy in California and throughout the US and will be highlighted.