COMMUNITY STORIES
CONNECT NEWSLETTER COSUMNES CSD
Heartfelt stories that connect people to our mission.
IN THIS ISSUE
• Jeff Alvarez Honored with EGRSF Distinguished Service Award
Hannah Levy Earns CPSI Certification
• eSports: Recreation for Everyone
• RAD Games 2025
• Partnering for a Stronger Community: Kiwanis Club of Laguna-Elk Grove and CSD
• Emerald Lakes Connects Youth and Community Through Golf
• Meet the Masters of the Green: Our Magical Irrigation Crew!
• Fire and Fun: Regional Safety Day Connects Community and First Responders
• Training Burns Prepare Crews for Wildfire Season
• Wildfire Readiness in Action:
• Fire Department Advances Toward Accreditation
• Got a Story to Tell? Help Us Celebrate 40 Years of Impact
• June is National Safety Month: Meet Our New Safety Champion Program!
• Staff Highlights /Newsletter Contributors
A Message from the General Manager
Over the past several weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to meet more of the dedicated individuals who bring our mission to life. These conversations and observations have offered a glimpse into the depth of our work and the passion behind it and provided insights into where improvements are needed. This month’s newsletter highlights the heart of our organization through stories of inclusion, innovation, service, and community.
We’re celebrating the many ways our team brings that mission to life whether it’s the Recreation ADventures (RAD) Games creating a sense of belonging, the Kiwanis Club partnering to support inclusive recreation, fire crews preparing for wildfire season and advancing toward the prestigious accreditation, irrigation teams keeping our parks green, or administrative staff working to deliver well planned CIP’s and operating budgets to keep it all moving along. Each of these efforts reflects a deep commitment to people and purpose.
As summer begins, our parks are filling with laughter, our pools are welcoming families, our programs are engaging residents of all ages, and we are preparing for our next fire academy, which will include 24 fire recruits. We also join in celebrating Pride month that reinforces our values of equity and inclusion. I’ve seen great community connections and service to our residents as I’ve toured our facilities, walked trails, played basketball in our parks, mourned with staff in our loss, and even stood carefully next to a blazing fire as a part of the wildfire training. What a District, and what an amazing team!
So, we’ll continue to adjust policies and meeting schedules to enable you all to work more effectively. Thank you to each of you who bring our mission to life in ways both seen and unseen for so many. Your dedication is what makes our community stronger, more resilient, and more connected.
I look forward to continuing to listen, learn, and work alongside you as we grow our “One District” together.
Sincerely,
Tim Ogden General Manager
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS
Jeff Alvarez Honored with EGRSF Distinguished Service Award
By Eileen Alcanices | Photo by Craig Pattenaude
We are proud to share that Jeff Alvarez, Administrative Analyst in the Administrative Services Department, has been selected as the sole recipient of this year’s Distinguished Service Award from the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation (EGRSF). Presented annually at the Spotlight on Scholarships event, this award honors one community member who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and meaningful contributions in support of the Foundation’s Mission and Vision. Jeff was recognized on May 1, and we are thrilled to see a member of our team honored for such impactful service.
Hannah Levy Earns CPSI Certification
By Christine Manitta | Photo by Craig Pattenaude
We’re proud to recognize Hannah Levy for taking the initiative to earn her Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification within just a few months of joining our team. This nationally recognized credential demonstrates a strong commitment to safety, professionalism, and continuous learning. Hannah’s proactive approach not only strengthens our District’s ability to maintain safe and accessible play environments but also showcases her dedication to excellence from day one. Congratulations, Hannah, on this important achievement.
NEWS & EVENTS
eSports: Recreation for Everyone
By Vincent Pompei
Video games and eSports are among the fastest-growing recreational and spectator activities worldwide. As of 2018, there were 2.5 billion gamers globally, with 166 million adults in the U.S. identifying as gamers. Yet, few recreation agencies have embraced video game programming. This may be due to outdated perceptions linking video games to negative behaviors. However, recent research shows that, when played in moderation, gaming supports problem-solving, critical thinking, STEM skills, spatial awareness, and reading.
Cost is another barrier. Gaming consoles and computers are expensive, which can deter agencies from offering programs. To overcome this, Cosumnes CSD partnered with Beret Entertainment and Just Lvl Up Eats, providing access to $10,000 in equipment and event prizes at little cost beyond staff time and facility use.
These programs have helped the District engage a hardto-reach demographic, primarily young and middle-aged adults, many of whom don’t participate in traditional sports. Participants have traveled up to 50 miles to attend. The events are also among the most inclusive forms of recreation, welcoming individuals of all abilities without age or physical constraints.
Cosumnes CSD will host its third eSports tournament on July 12 at Albiani Recreation Center. After filling Lippincott Hall at the last event, the next tournament will expand into additional rooms and feature a third game. Join in person or via livestream on Twitch.
This partnership with two local businesses showcases how small organizations can create a big community impact.
NEWS & EVENTS
RAD Games 2025
By Ciera Dulgar | Photo by Rachel Moates
We welcomed over 100 participants of all ages and abilities, and were thrilled to see nearly 400 patrons, including family members, in attendance. Participants got to try a variety of activities with adaptations for different limitations and enjoy the pool at Wackford.
The event was featured on Good Day Sacramento thanks to John’s fantastic news segment, and was also covered in the Elk Grove Citizen. Be sure to check them out!
“RAD activities are a godsend for my adult son, who doesn’t have the opportunity to socialize and make friends...”
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who helped bring this incredible event to life!
• Our dedicated RAD Games Committee: Lexi Cobb, Yadira Barrera, John Kenkel, Will Parvu, Morena Gonzalez, and David Olivares
• Part-time staff across Recreation who worked the event
• Aquatics staff who lifeguarded the pool
• Additional support from Patrick Bitcon, Charlene Samprath, Lana Yoshimura, and Simone Nazzal and her team from Fire (who were a hit with the fire hose!)
• Marketing & Communications: Gina for all the marketing materials, Rachel Moates for capturing amazing event photos, and Jenna Brinkman for securing a variety of media coverage
• The 30+ volunteers who generously gave their time
• Facilities team for their support with set-up and clean-up
• Our event sponsors, Board of Directors in attendance, and President Spease with Director fund support
This event has truly become a cornerstone celebration for the disability community in our region, and it wouldn’t be possible without your continued support and commitment.
Comments we have already received from the follow up survey:
“We LOVE this event! The volunteers are wonderful, and we love that there’s a good mix of sports, crafts, music, and sensory activities. Thanks for putting this on!”
“RAD activities are a godsend for my adult son, who doesn’t have the opportunity to socialize and make friends since he aged out of school programs.”
We’re already looking forward to next year’s RAD Games!
NEWS & EVENTS
Partnering for
a Stronger Community:
Kiwanis Club of Laguna-Elk Grove and Cosumnes CSD
By Joey Cobb
The Kiwanis Club of Laguna-Elk Grove and Cosumnes CSD continue to show how collaboration, service, and community spirit can create meaningful impact. Together, they’ve supported local programs and hosted events that promote inclusion, stewardship, and safety.
“Together, they’ve supported local programs and hosted events that promote inclusion, stewardship, and safety.”
Magnet Fishing: Fun with a Purpose
At a recent magnet fishing event, cohosted by Kiwanis and Cosumnes CSD, local youth were invited to explore this eco-friendly hobby that uses magnets to retrieve metal debris from waterways. Over the years, the event has helped remove more than 100 pounds of waste from local parks.
In addition to the hands-on activity, volunteers shared information about environmental conservation and the importance of keeping public spaces clean. The event was both educational and engaging for all ages.
RAD Games: Supporting Inclusive Recreation
The Kiwanis Club also lent its support to this year’s RAD (Recreation ADventures) Games, a Cosumnes CSD program for individuals with developmental disabilities. Their donation helped cover event needs and provide supplies for participants.
Club members also distributed fire blankets to each attending family, offering a practical tool to support household safety and emergency preparedness.
Looking Ahead
These joint efforts reflect the growing partnership between Kiwanis and Cosumnes CSD, grounded in shared values and a commitment to community. From adaptive recreation to environmental cleanups, their work continues to enrich the Elk Grove area. Whether pitching in at an event or supporting programs behind the scenes, the Kiwanis Club lives out its motto: Serving the Children of the World.
Emerald Lakes Connects Youth and Community Through Golf
By Gilbert Urbano
In May, Emerald Lakes Golf Course proudly welcomed the RISE (Reach, Inspire, Support, Empower) group for two special sessions. RISE serves youth who may not have access to traditional recreation programs. In partnership with the Elk Grove Police Department, the course hosts monthly sessions, one on a Thursday and another on a Sunday, designed to create a welcoming and empowering environment where kids can feel proud of who they are and where they come from. Every participant leaves with something meaningful, such as a shirt, hat, or even a set of golf clubs, all provided at no cost.
Also in May, Emerald Lakes partnered with Chicks in Crisis for a successful fundraising tournament held on May 12. Thanks
“... a place where recreation makes a lasting impact.”
to the generosity of participants and sponsors, the event raised more than $14,000 to support the organization’s mission of helping young women and families in need.
Through inclusive programming and community partnerships, Emerald Lakes continues to be a place where recreation makes a lasting impact.
NEWS & EVENTS
Meet the Masters of the Green: Our Magical Irrigation Crew!
By Tammy Rominger | Photo by Rachel Moates
There’s a crew among us… a mysterious bunch who work in the shadows, not with wands or wizard hats, but with sharp eyes, sharp minds, and a deep understanding of what it takes to keep things green. You won’t find them brandishing wrenches (well, not often), instead, they’re out in the field conducting irrigation checks, writing work orders, managing contractors, and answering the call whenever a resident reports a rogue sprinkler or a surprise street fountain.
You might not even know they exist, until you’ve experienced the unexpected wonder of the “Bellagio” style sprinkler show in one of our parks or spotted a team member dashing off to answer a water emergency. These green-space guardians spend hours each day, week, month, and year making the magic happen across Cosumnes CSD. They care for more than 600 acres of irrigated parkland. That’s a whole lot of grass, plants and trees. Add to that thousands of valves and, wait for it, thousands and thousands of individual sprinkler heads, and you begin to see the scope of their magical domain. Who are these legends, you ask? Their names are whispered in awe around the district: Cliff, Cliff (yes, there are two, no typo here!), Matt, Tim, Jose, Jose (again, really, two of them!), Xavier, and Isaiah. And soon, they’ll be welcoming a new member to their elite crew!
Most of the time, their hard work goes unnoticed, and that’s kind of the point. But if the green ever fades into an unfortunate hue of blue or gold (the dreaded dry spell!), that’s when people start asking questions. Yet even when no one’s looking, this crew is hard at work behind the scenes, keeping everything lush and thriving.
“These green-space guardians spend hours each day, week, month, and year making the magic happen across Cosumnes CSD.”
So, the next time you’re out enjoying your local park, running a rec program, or just cruising through Elk Grove, take a moment to admire the greenery. Slow down. Take it in. And if you happen to spot one of these elusive legends in the field, give them a wave, a high-five, or even a heartfelt “thank you.”
To the mighty crew: Cliff, Cliff, Matt, Tim, Jose, Jose, Xavier, Jameson, Isaiah, and soon-to-be #9, we see you, we appreciate you, and we are so lucky to have you! #SprinklerSquadGoals #GreenThumbsOfGlory #IrrigationAppreciation
NEWS & EVENTS
Fire and Fun: Regional Safety Day Connects Community and First Responders
By Molly Lebed & Brita Geiger | Photo by Rachel Moates
On Saturday, June 7, Elk Grove Park came alive as hundreds of families gathered for the 10th Annual Regional Safety Day, a community- wide event dedicated to emergency preparedness, public safety, and family fun.
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the park was transformed into a handson safety showcase featuring fire trucks, police cruisers, and emergency vehicles, along with live demonstrations including K-9 searches, helicopter landings, and “Jaws of Life” rescues. Children and adults had the chance to connect with local first responders, explore equipment, and even try on gear.
More than 30 interactive booths offered activities and educational resources on topics ranging from disaster readiness to health and wellness. Food trucks added to the festive atmosphere, keeping attendees fueled as they explored the event.
We’re proud to be part of the team that makes Regional Safety Day possible and thankful for the collaboration with our regional partners, including Kaiser Permanente, the City of Elk Grove, and the Elk Grove Police Department.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to another successful event, and we look forward to seeing you next year for more learning, connection, and community fun.
Wildfire Readiness in Action: Training Burns Prepare Crews for Wildfire Season
By Molly Lebed & Brita Geiger | Photo by Craig Pattenaude
From June 9 to 14, the Cosumnes FIre Department conducted a multi-day live fire training exercise in the southern Elk Grove area near Franklin Field. This annual event, held in partnership with Sacramento County Airport Fire, is a cornerstone of our wildland fire preparedness program.
Each year, Cosumnes Fire rotates all firefighting personnel through a 100-acre controlled burn scenario, giving crews valuable, hands-on experience in a safe and supervised environment. The training allows firefighters to sharpen their skills in recognizing fire behavior, adapting to changing conditions, and operating as a coordinated team under real conditions.
Exercises included live fire line construction, equipment deployment, and incident command drills, tools, and tactics essential to effective wildfire response. This training was
especially important as the District prepares for peak fire season and high-risk periods like Independence Day. These efforts are part of Cosumnes Fire’s ongoing commitment to community safety, operational readiness, and interagency collaboration during California’s most fireprone months.
NEWS & EVENTS
Fire Department Advances Toward Accreditation
By Felipe Rodríguez
We are proud to share a major milestone in our journey toward professional excellence: Cosumnes Fire has successfully completed its accreditation site visit and has advanced to the final hearing before the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), scheduled for August 2025 in Denver, Colorado.
This achievement is the result of years of dedicated work, formally initiated in 2021, and built on decades of commitment to delivering exceptional fire service to our community. Accreditation by CFAI is a rigorous process that includes a comprehensive review of operations, strategic planning, community risk reduction, training, resources, and health and safety practices.
From May 26–30, a Peer Assessor Team of experienced fire professionals conducted an in-depth, on-site evaluation of our department. The assessors toured our facilities, interviewed personnel, and reviewed key documents including our Strategic Plan, Community Risk Assessment and Standards of Cover, and the SelfAssessment Manual.
The Self-Assessment Manual spans 11 key categories:
• Governance and Administration
• Assessment and Planning
• Goals and Objectives
• Financial Resources
• Community Risk Reduction
• Physical Resources
• Human Resources
• Training and Competency
• Essential Resources
• External Systems Relationships
• Health and Safety
Advancing to the CFAI Commission hearing is a testament to our department’s transparency, professionalism, and continuous improvement. We believe in the value of independent evaluation to affirm our strengths and identify areas for growth.
Special thanks to Senior Management Analyst Lizy Silva, who served as our Accreditation Manager and provided steady leadership throughout this complex process. Gratitude also goes to the many team members who contributed by authoring sections of the Self-Assessment Manual, preparing materials, and participating in the site visit.
To learn more about the fire service accreditation and credentialing process, visit the Center for Public Safety Excellence website.
Got a Story to Tell? Help Us Celebrate 40 Years of Impact
As part of our 40th Anniversary celebration, we’re collecting stories that capture the heart of Cosumnes CSD—moments that show how our work has made a difference in people’s lives, shaped our organization, or strengthened our community. These stories may be featured on social media and other channels through December 2025. Whether it’s a meaningful interaction with a resident, a proud team moment, or a reflection on how things have changed in your department over the years, we want to hear it.
If you’ve got a story, photo, or even just an idea, send it in! Everyone who contributes anniversary content before July 1 will be entered to win a Cosumnes CSD apparel item of their choice.
Let’s honor 40 Years of Service and celebrate the Lifetime of Impact we’ve made together.
Email Jenna at JennaBrinkman@ cosumnescsd.gov
Nominate Your SAFETY CHAMPION
June is National Safety Month: Meet Our New Safety Champion Program!
By Shannon Reyes and Tiffany Piper
June marks National Safety Month, a time to focus on reducing the leading causes of injury in the workplace. As we honor this important initiative, we’re excited to introduce our new Safety Champion Program, designed to recognize and celebrate those who go above and beyond to keep our workplace safe.
Each month, we’ll spotlight up to five staff members who demonstrate safety excellence. From reporting hazards to leading by example or sharing innovative safety ideas, we’re committed to recognizing the safety contributions of every team member. Nominations are open to all staff, and everyone is encouraged to participate in celebrating their colleagues’ efforts.
Why is this important?
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. By identifying and rewarding positive behaviors, we can foster a more engaged, empowered, and safe work environment for all.
How to Nominate a Safety Champion:
• Fill out a quick nomination form:
• Share a brief description of what your nominee did to promote safety
Recognized Safety Champions will receive:
• A premium swag item of their choice (pictured)
• A $25 Visa gift card
• A certificate of recognition
Let’s celebrate safety leadership this month and every month. Together, we can build a culture where safety comes first. #NationalSafetyMonth #SafetyChampion #WorkplaceWellness
RECOGNIZE
Send In Your Nomination Now!
STAFF HIGHLIGHTS
GET TO KNOW....JENNIFER WARSON
By Kelly Croisdale
Jennifer has worked for the District for almost 19 years. Outside of work, she has been happily married to the love of her life, John, for 30 years. They have four children – Melanie, Kelsey, Taylor, and Dylan who continue to make them so proud. Jennifer also has two energetic grandsons, Blake and Jack, who light up her world. She is passionate about spending time with her family, loves to travel, and enjoys scrapbooking in her free time.
NEW HIRE WELCOME ABOARD
and
Zackary Delaney CORE Facilities Operations Technician, Sr.
Zackary arrived right on time, as we are days away from opening the doors to CORE.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Salute to the Red, White & Blue
Friday, July 4 | 5pm-10pm Elk Grove Park
Board of Directors CORE Tour
Monday, June 23 | 11:30am CORE
CORE VIP Invite-Only Event
Thursday, June 26 | 5pm CORE
Dive-in Movie
Saturday, June 28 | 4pm Elk Grove Aquatics Center
Independence Day Celebration Friday, July 4 | All Day
Various Locations, Galt
RAD Dance - Red White & Blue
Friday, July 11 | 6:30pm-8:30pm Wackford Complex
Fighting Games Jamboree Friday, July 12 | 1pm-7pm Albiani Recreation Center
Laguna Town Hall
NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS
• Brita Geiger, the Executive Assistant to the Fire Chief, has been a dedicated member of the District for nearly 10 years. With experience across all departments, she brings exceptional organizational skills, enthusiasm, and a deep passion for supporting her community and its success.
• Ciera Dulgar, Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor, has been with the District for almost 3 years. As a Certified Recreation Therapist, she has a passion for her program oversight, which includes RAD, Teens, and Measure E (supporting at-promise youth).
• Christine Manitta, Landscape Architecture & Planning Director, leads an interdisciplinary team in creating sustainable, resilient, and innovative landscapes. She oversees award-winning projects including parks and green infrastructure, emphasizing community engagement and long-term environmental sustainability.
• Eileen Alcanices, with 18 years at the District, supports budget development, contract coordination, procurement, and administration, demonstrating her strong commitment to public service and dedication to efficient, high-quality operational support.
• Gilbert Urbano is a hybrid Manager overseeing both the Laguna Ridge area in Park Operations and Emerald Lakes Golf Course, an enterprise site that offers recreational programming.
• Joey Cobb is a Partnership and Event coordinator. He started his CSD career in the teen center, and after finishing his degree, moved over to his role in partnerships and events. He is an intergral member of the partnership and events team, navigating contracts, budgets, community partners and so much more.
• Kelly Croisdale has dedicated 15 years to Cosumnes CSD, starting as a preschool teacher and now bringing her passion for service and care to her role as an Accounting Assistant in the Finance Division.
• Molly Lebed, Chief of Staff, with 18 years of service to the District, supports the General Manager by driving strategic priorities and overseeing District-wide initiatives and communications.
• Shannon Reyes is a seasoned Claims Specialist in Risk Management with over 15 years of expertise, noted for creating and executing effective processes and strategies that protect assets and ensure business continuity.
• Tammy Rominger, Urban Forestry Manager, is an urban forestry professional with 18 years of experience, specializing in tree care, public education, and promoting environmental consciousness.
• Tiffany Piper, our Risk Manager, has shown dedication to protecting our employees and community since joining the District in 2022. Her expertise and thoughtful approach enable her to skillfully navigate the complexities of risk management.
• Vincent Pompei is a Partnership and Event coordinator. He started his career with the district in 2021 on the park operations side helping keep parks clean and green. He now enjoys supporting other departments, community partners, and large renters in providing alternative and new forms of recreation.