CONNECT NEWSLETTER COSUMNES CSD
A
IN THIS ISSUE
• Honoring Our Heroes: Elk Grove
Regional Veterans Memorial
• Leadership Elk Grove: 2025 Project
• Emerging Leaders Program
• ERP Planning Kicks Off Strong
• District Named Employer of the Year
• Communications Team Brings Home
Top Honors from CAPIO Conference
• A Proud Milestone: CPRP Certification
• Fill the Boot for Burns Drive
• Spring into Wellness: Staff Challenge
• Simulated Chaos. Real Preparedness.
• WCISA’s 91st Annual Conference
GROWING TOGETHER!
Message from the General Manager
• Teens Dig to Make History Bloom
• Jiban Das Earns Global Recognition
• Tiny Tots: Preschool in the Park
• Growing a Safer Workplace
• Books We Love: SMT
• Staff Highlights /Newsletter Contributors
As I start this new opportunity as your new General Manager, I’m grateful for the warm welcome by so many and humbled to lead the District and serve the community.
A bit about me: With over 23 years of experience in municipal leadership, I’ve had the privilege of leading impactful projects and initiatives for several cities. Throughout my career, I’ve successfully delivered fire service expansions, major park and economic development projects, and business recruitment and expansion initiatives that have enhanced the quality of life for residents and driven economic growth. As I bring this experience to the District, I’m excited to start a new chapter here in this community, where we are relocating to this month. My wife and I are proud of our four children, three sons, and one daughter, who have grown into capable and compassionate individuals. Our oldest son and his wife recently became parents, and we’re thrilled to be first-time grandparents to our beautiful granddaughter.
In the coming weeks, I’ll be attending several community events and look forward to connecting with you if our paths cross at any of these events. I’ll also be scheduling facility tours and attending department meetings to learn more about our operations.
Over the next three months, my focus will be on listening and learning, and getting a deep understanding of the District’s needs and opportunities. From there, we’ll start taking action, working together to drive progress and achieve our goals. I’m excited to partner with each of you to build on our successes and tackle our challenges. Together, we’ll make our District an even better place to live, work, and play.
Sincerely,
Tim Ogden General Manager
DEVELOPMENT
Honoring Our Heroes: Elk Grove Regional Veterans Memorial
by Christine Manitta
The Elk Grove Regional Veterans Memorial, located in Elk Grove Park, stands as a lasting tribute to the brave men and women who have served in our nation's military—honoring both those who made the ultimate sacrifice and those surviving veterans from the Elk Grove region.
Over the past several years, the memorial has evolved to include a walking trail, a star monument with a flagpole, benches, concrete paving, and a central plaza adorned with engraved dedication pavers. Together, these elements offer a space for reflection, remembrance, and community pride. Exciting progress is on the horizon. Thanks to the advocacy of Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen, the memorial wall project received a $100,000 boost in state funding from the California Department of Veterans Affairs. Construction will begin with a groundbreaking ceremony this spring, with completion expected approximately six months later.
Leadership Elk Grove selects Veterans Memorial for 2025 Community Project
By Jessica Reyes
Leadership Elk Grove, a program of the Elk Grove Chamber of Commerce, builds future leaders through hands-on learning about local government, business, and civic issues. The Leadership Elk Grove Class of 2025 has selected the Elk Grove Regional Veterans Memorial as its community project – reflecting their commitment to service, civic engagement, and honoring those who have served our country.
In the coming months, the Leadership Team will focus on fundraising and strategic planning efforts to improve and enrich this important community landmark. Planned enhancements include upgraded lighting and signage, commemorative veteran brick sponsorships, landscape beautification, educational plaques along the memorial walkway, and a welcoming entrance boulder.
Through this meaningful project, the Leadership Team seeks not only to give back to the community but also to honor and support veterans in a lasting and visible way. Four Cosumnes CSD employees – Jillian Chavez, Jessica Reyes, Ciera Dulgar and David Olivares – are part of this year’s class and will help bring the project to life.
You can be part of this legacy. You can honor a veteran in your life by purchasing dedication pavers and granite tiles.
Together, we can ensure the stories of service, bravery, and sacrifice are remembered for generations to come.
Emerging Leaders Program Grows the Next Generation of Recreation Talent
By Will Parvu
The Emerging Leaders program is officially underway! This development opportunity for part-time staff from the Recreation division is designed to build leadership skills, learn more about how the district operates, and prepare for future full-time opportunities. From programming and customer service to marketing, budgeting, and more, participants will get hands-on experience and practical tools to support their growth.
We kicked off our first meeting on April 7 at the Main Office, and we’re excited to see this group of future leaders in action. Throughout the program, participants will also get help polishing their resumes, strengthening interview skills, and gaining insider tips on what it takes to succeed in the parks and recreation industry!
ERP Planning Kicks Off Strong
By Nou Vang
A big thanks to the many staff members who recently participated in the ERP Joint Requirements Planning meetings. During these collaborative sessions, staff identified key business needs and system requirements to ensure the new ERP system aligns with District operations. These discussions will help shape the Request for Proposals and guide the design of our future ERP system.
District Named Employer of the Year by Best Buddies NEWS & EVENTS
by Ciera Dulgar
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, Recreation Coordinator Yadira Barrera and Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor Ciera Dulgar proudly represented Cosumnes CSD at the Best Buddies Friendship Walk Fundraiser. During the event, Cosumnes CSD’s RAD Employment Program was honored with the Employer of the Year award. Our partnership with Best Buddies began in the fall of 2024, and we are proud to currently employ an individual with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) as part of this meaningful collaboration. His enthusiasm, strong work ethic, and the positive energy he brings to Wackford have significantly enriched our workplace culture.
We are committed to expanding employment opportunities for individuals with IDD and are deeply
NEWS & EVENTS
Communications Team Brings Home Top Honors from CAPIO Conference
by Molly Lebed
Last month, the Communications team represented Cosumnes CSD at the 2025 CAPIO Conference in Napa, where more than 700 public information professionals from across California gathered to share knowledge, network, and celebrate excellence in government communications.
Jenna Brinkman, Community & Public Relations Manager, attended on behalf of the District to gain fresh insights and connect with peers in the field. “It was inspiring to see how other agencies are engaging their communities—and even more rewarding to have our work recognized on a statewide level,” said Jenna.
The team brought home two EPIC Awards—one for the Giant Pumpkin Festival Social Media Campaign, and another for the CORE Brand Launch
Even more exciting, CORE’s launch earned Best in Show, the highest-scoring entry in its budget category among a record-breaking 500 submissions!
Cosumnes CSD was also one of just three agencies invited to give a speech at the EPIC Awards Dinner, celebrating alongside some of California’s top government communicators. Accepting the award alongside Jenna were Communications & Marketing Supervisor Craig Pattenaude and Graphics Specialist Gina Grimm. Bravo, team!
A Proud Milestone: Earning My CPRP Certification
by Andre Pichly
Earning my Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification through the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has been one of the most meaningful milestones in my career. I studied Recreation at California State University, Sacramento, and have worked in the field since I was 19—gaining experience in youth programs, community events, and facility operations. Parks and recreation have been more than just a career path for me; they’re a lifelong passion rooted in service, inclusion, and community connection.
The CPRP certification is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates professional competency in key areas such as programming, operations, budgeting, human resources, and risk management. Preparing for and earning this certification allowed me to deepen my knowledge and strengthen my ability to lead and innovate in this vital industry.
One of the true highlights of my journey was being recognized at the 2025 California Park & Recreation Society (CPRS) State Conference, where my father—a fellow recreation professional—personally awarded me a CPRP pin, which I proudly wear every day at work. Sharing that moment with someone who inspired my path made the achievement even more special. It was a proud milestone, not only professionally but personally, and a memory I’ll always carry forward in my career.
NEWS & EVENTS
by Jenna Brinkman | Photos by Rachel Moates
Cosumnes Fire is once again rallying together for a cause that’s close to our hearts. The annual Fill the Boot for Burns Drive is happening this Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the intersection of Laguna Boulevard and Bruceville Road in Elk Grove.
Our off-duty firefighters will be out collecting donations from drivers and pedestrians, all to benefit the Firefighters Burn Institute. Every dollar raised supports burn treatment, recovery programs, and services for burn survivors and their families throughout Northern and Central California.
As an added bonus, this year’s event also features a car show! It’s a great opportunity to check out some cool cars while supporting a great cause.
This incredible effort, led by a small group of volunteers each year, has raised more than $634,752 over the past two decades. Just last year, the community donated more than $29,000 in a single day!
“This event represents the very best of our community,” said Fire Chief Felipe Rodríguez. “Our firefighters are proud to partner with the public in support of burn survivors and their families. Every dollar dropped in a boot makes a real difference.”
Elk Grove 2024
$29,000 raised in a single day
Saturday, May 17
9am-4pm
Intersection of Laguna Blvd and Bruceville Rd in Elk Grove
Can’t attend in person?
You can still contribute at ffburn.org or texting “CosumnesFire” to 443-21
We’d love to see more of our Cosumnes CSD family out there—whether you drive by, walk up, or swing by the car show. Bring your family, bring your friends, and help us fill those boots!
NEWS & EVENTS
Simulated Chaos. Real Preparedness.
Story and Photos by Craig Pattenaude
At Cosumnes Fire, we train for the worst—so we can respond with our best.
Our firefighters recently completed Intentional Mass Casualty Incident (IMCI) training, a critical exercise that prepares crews for high-stakes, high-stress emergency events. But this wasn’t a standard training session.
Developed through a collaborative effort by instructors from the Training and EMS divisions, along with a group of firefighters dedicated to improving our tactical operations, this training went deeper.
By integrating realistic emergency audio files inspired by actual calls, the team was immersed in the soundscape of a true mass casualty scene—complete with radio chatter, sirens, and the rising urgency of the moment.
These immersive elements are designed to trigger the same adrenaline response our crews experience in the field. It’s a safe space to make decisions under pressure. To sharpen instincts. To lead when seconds count.
Whether on the drill ground or in the community, we’re committed to protecting lives with precision and care.
NEWS & EVENTS
SPRING INTO WELLNESS: STAFF CHALLENGE
Boost energy, reduce stress, and build healthy habits with a little friendly competition! Cosumnes CSD employees are invited to join the CORE Team for weekly Stretch/Mobility and Full Body Workout sessions. As a bonus, we’re adding two special wellness talks from our nutrition coach to help you stay on track, both at work and home.
STRETCH CLASS
CLASS SCHEDULE:
TIME: 9:00 am-9:30 am
LOCATION:
• Elk Grove Park: May 6, May 20, June 3, June 17
• Big Horn Shop: May 13, May 27, June 10, June 24
WELLNESS TALK
“Stress Busting Techniques for Everyday Life”
Date: Tuesday, June 3 | Time: 9:00 am-9:30 am
Location: Elk Grove Park
HOW IT WORKS:
• Come to any of the scheduled sessions—movement or mindset. It all counts!
• All sessions are beginner friendly
• The more you move (and learn), the more chances to win!
TIME: 12:15 pm-1:00 pm
LOCATION:
• Main Office: May 7, May 21, June 4, June 11, June 18
• Wackford Gym: May 14, May 28
• CORE (fingers crossed): June 25
WELLNESS TALK
“Healthy Habits for Busy Professionals”
Date: Wednesday, June 11 | Time: 12:15 pm-1:00 pm Location: Main Office
ATTENDANCE GUIDELINES:
• Lunchtime sessions (Wednesdays) are considered on-your-own time.
• Morning sessions (Tuesdays) may be attended with your supervisor’s approval.
For questions, contact:
LizRodriguez@CosumnesCSD.gov
NEWS & EVENTS
WCISA’s 91st Annual Conference Branches Out in Tucson
By Tammy Rominger
From April 22–25, 2025, arboriculture professionals gathered in Tucson, Arizona for the 91st Annual Conference of the Western Chapter ISA, themed “Branching Out: Innovations in Arboriculture for a Sustainable Future.” With a focus on culture, community, and collaboration, the event brought together experts and practitioners dedicated to advancing sustainable tree care.
Among the attendees were our very own Urban Forestry Manager, Tammy Rominger, and Park and Golf Operations Manager, Jason Rickard, who joined colleagues from across the region to share knowledge and bring back fresh insights for our local landscape programs.
A conference highlight was the keynote by Dr. Kevin Smith of Maine, titled “How Trees Resist Heat and Drought Stress.” His session explored how trees use anatomical and biochemical strategies to survive extreme heat and drought—
insights critical for managing tree stress and guiding climate-adapted tree selection.
Attendees also participated in a field trip to the University of Arizona Tree Lab, where they studied the impact of fire on tree ring growth and the longterm effects of environmental stress on forest ecosystems. This handson learning experience deepened understanding of tree biology and climate resilience.
Teens Dig In to Make History Bloom
Teen Leadership Groups Join Historical Society for Flower Planting Project
By Lexi Cobb
On April 12th, members of the Teen Leadership Committee and Teen Action Academy, along with Grove Teen Center Staff, Desiree Kanemoto and Grace Soria, teamed up with the Historical Society for a special project – planting flowers in preparation for the Historical Society Spring Tea. Staff said the leadership groups worked hard, got their hands dirty and completed most of the planting that needed to be completed. One member of the Teen Action Academy said that they enjoyed taking part of this project and looks forward to another project!
The event featured two and a half days of education, networking, and a vibrant tradeshow, all set in the stunning Sonoran Desert. From cutting-edge research to practical solutions, the 91st Annual Conference delivered valuable tools and connections to support healthier urban forests.
NEWS & EVENTS
Tiny Tots Bring Big Smiles at “Preschool in the Park: Carnival Edition”
by Patrick Bitcon
Tiny Tot Preschools recently hosted two exciting “Preschool in the Park: Carnival Edition” pop-up events, spreading joy at Laguna Town Hall and Elk Grove Park. Families enjoyed fun-filled days featuring classic carnival games, bouncing in a jump house, whimsical balloon animals, creative face painting, and a special appearance by our friendly mascot, Sammy the Duck!
Our unique Tiny Tot Passport added to the excitement. Children collected stamps by participating in activities and then eagerly spun a prize wheel once their passports were full. We were thrilled to see close to 200 completed passports, reflecting the wonderful engagement of our young participants.
These events successfully combined community building with an opportunity to highlight our enriching preschool programs. The seamless execution was made possible by the fantastic teamwork across our Preschool, After School, Sports, Teens, Aquatics, and Events departments.
By Kirsten Potter
The District’s Asset Manager, Jiban Das, has been nominated for the McKeown Individual Achievement Award by the Institute of Asset Management (IAM), an international organization promoting excellence in asset management. This prestigious award honors an individual who has made a significant personal contribution to their organization’s asset management efforts. The winner will be announced at the IAM Global Conference in London this June.
GROWING A SAFER WORKPLACE: Why Training and Mentoring Matter
By Tiffany Piper, Risk Manager
At Cosumnes CSD, our commitment to safety is a cornerstone of how we grow together. Training and professional development are not just tools for career advancement—they’re essential for creating a workplace where everyone feels secure and supported.
In Risk Management, we see every safety training, hands-on exercise, and mentorship opportunity as a way to strengthen our culture of prevention. Whether it’s learning how to safely operate equipment, understanding emergency procedures, or simply mentoring a new teammate on safety best practices, each action helps minimize risks before they impact our team or community.
This month’s safety spotlight:
• New Employees: Make sure you complete your required safety training on Vector Solutions during onboarding and as assigned.
• Supervisors: Take time to mentor new staff on department-specific safety protocols—they’re counting on you for guidance!
• All Staff: If you notice a safety hazard, report it immediately. Your vigilance helps protect everyone.
Remember: Safety isn’t a one-time achievement—it’s something we grow, together, every day. Thank you for making Cosumnes CSD a safer place to work and thrive!
BOOKS WE LOVE
Curated by SMT
This month’s theme, Growing Together, is all about learning, mentoring, and professional development. We asked our Strategic Management Team to share one book that has made a lasting impact on their personal or professional journey. Their recommendations offer a glimpse into what’s inspired our department heads—and just might inspire you too.
Traci Farris, Parks & Recreation Administrator
Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone by
Brené Brown
BRAVING stands for:
• Boundaries: Setting clear limits and expectations, both for yourself and others
• Reliability: Doing what you say you will do, being dependable and trustworthy
• Accountability: Taking responsibility for your actions and mistakes, owning up to them
• Vault: Keeping information confidential, respecting the privacy of others and your own
• Integrity: Choosing courage over comfort, acting with honesty and integrity
• Nonjudgement: Creating a space where people can ask for help and share feelings without fear of judgment
• Generosity: Extending the most generous interpretation to the intentions, words, and actions of others
I try hard to live up to each of these. It was a great book, very impactful.
Amanda Chehrezad, Administrator of General Services
It’s a pretty quick read and a great one on communication and building trust.
“The idea is simple: You don’t have to choose between being a pushover and a jerk. Using Radical Candor―avoiding the perils of Obnoxious Aggression, Manipulative Insincerity, and Ruinous Empathy―you can be kind and clear at the same time. Radical Candor is about caring personally and challenging directly, about soliciting criticism to improve your leadership and also providing guidance that helps others grow. It focuses on praise but doesn’t shy away from criticism―to help you love your work and the people you work with.”
They also have a podcast for people who prefer to listen.
Felipe Rodríguez, Fire Chief
Wooden: A lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Court
by Coach John Wooden and Steve Jamison
This is an easy read and will inspire you to be a more effective leader. Coach Wooden’s life lessons on families, values, virtues, success, achievement, competition, coaching, teaching, leading, and his pyramid of success will provide you with a strong foundation to build your leadership style upon. I recommend this book to anyone.
Radical Candor by Kim Scott
BOOKS WE LOVE
Sigrid Asmundson, District Counsel
Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About Business of Life
by James Kerr
I love a good sports team story. New Zealand’s All Blacks rugby team is world famous, not just for their winning record but for embodying a culture based on humility, excellence, and respect.
Staying humble allows us to keep an open mind and continuously grow. Each person has the ability to contribute to the betterment of the team.
Excellence and achievements aren’t the result of talent. Instead, small, consistent behaviors (how a team shows up, interacts, and executes a plan) results in success. Shared connections, and shared challenges, allows success to build over time with consistent effort.
Finally, respecting “the jersey” (our teammates, our organization, and what this symbol represents) is to respect where we have come from and the legacy we want to leave. We are here to contribute to something larger than ourselves.
Tim Ogden, General Manager
Jerusalem The Eternal City
by Andrew C. Skinner, David B Galbraith, and D. Kelly Odgen
After touring Israel and Jordan in 2023, I was struck by how much of our world history and leadership across cultures and eras has been shaped by the ancient city of Jerusalem. This book deepened my understanding of the city’s political, military, and religious significance and gave me a richer perspective on how belief, conflict, and resilience have influenced generations.
It was a powerful reminder that leadership often benefits from a long view, shaped by history, grounded in values, and focused on service.
Molly Lebed, Chief of Staff
Primal Leadership: Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence
by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee
This book explores how emotional intelligence helps leaders connect more effectively and support others in meaningful ways. It’s been especially helpful in understanding and working alongside different leadership styles.
One of the most helpful takeaways for me was the idea of “resonant leadership,” creating positive energy and strong relationships through self-awareness and empathy. I recommend it to anyone balancing the work of supporting others while also leading a team.
STAFF HIGHLIGHTS
GET TO KNOW....FRED BREMERMAN
UPCOMING EVENTS
Volunteer Appreciation Pool Party
Friday, May 16 | 4pm-7pm
Wackford Complex
Fill the Boot for Burns Drive
Saturday, May 17 | 9am-4pm
Bruceville & Laguna
POOLS Open for Summer!
Saturday, May 24
Wackford Complex and Elk Grove Aquatics Center
Memorial Day
Monday, May 26
Free! Summer Camp Demo Day
Saturday, May 31 | 10am-12pm Wackford Complex
Women’s Golf Day
Friday, June 6 | 6pm-9pm Emerald Lakes Golf Course (REGISTER)
Regional Safety Day
Saturday, June 7 | 9am-4pm Elk Grove Park
By Kelly Croisdale
Fred Bremerman started with the CSD in May 1989 as a Recreation Supervisor. Fred’s first task was park dedication planning for the seventh park in the district, Smedberg Park. Fred enjoys challenging assignments like the CORE Recreation Center. Fred and his wife Kimberly enjoy travel and spending time with the grandkids. Since 4 of their 5 grandchildren are in Minneapolis, they get a chance to enjoy both. Visiting Yosemite is Fred’s favorite local passion.
WELCOME ABOARD and CONGRATULATIONS
NEW HIRES TRANSFER/REASSIGNMENT SEPARATIONS
Thomas Sean Hamilton
Josh Freeman Acting Human Resources Director (WOC)
Tim Ogden General Manager
Reina Tarango Board Director
Bailey Rohrer Administrative Assistant (CORE/Sports)
NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS
• Patrick Bitcon, Recreation Supervisor for Youth Development, passionately drives quality program creation for youth and staff development, fostering growth and engagement within the community.
• Jenna Brinkman, Community & Public Relations Manager, has led a diverse range of communications, marketing, and media outreach efforts over the past 10 years.
• Lexi Cobb joined the District in 2017 and now coordinates Teen Programming and Enrichment classes, fostering safe spaces where teens can connect, grow, and develop leadership skills within their community.
• 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.
• 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 atpromise youth).
• 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.
• 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.
• Rachel Moates, Communication Specialist, utilizes her 10 years of experience in photography and video production to craft engaging visual content that showcases the District’s work and connects with the community.
• Craig Pattenaude, our Marketing & Communications Supervisor, combines his love for photography and video production with expertise in social media and digital marketing to share the District’s story in creative and engaging ways.
• Will Parvu is CORE’s Sports Coordinator, managing recreation programs, facility rentals, and camps that keep the community active and engaged.
• Andre Pichly, Recreation Supervisor for Sports, strives to create opportunities for community members of all ages to discover, participate in, and fall in love with sports.
• 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.
• Kirsten Potter is the Executive Assistant to the Acting Administrator of General Services and has served the District for nearly 15 years. She applies her exceptional organizational and customer service skills to support the community and the District.
• Jessica Reyes, Accounting Assistant, has been with the District for nearly 10 years. She began her career as temporary front desk staff at Fire Headquarters. She is dedicated to building strong relationships with her coworkers and continuously seeks to create AP processes within finance for new and future staff.
• 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.
• Nou Vang, our Finance Director, has been instrumental in strengthening the District’s financial position since 2021 through her strategic leadership and expertise.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Molly Lebed
Jenna Brinkman
Gina Grimm