A MESSAGE FROM THE INTERIM GENERAL MANAGER: CELEBRATING YOU!
As we approach the end of the year, and following the Thanksgiving Holiday that I hope was time well spent with friends and family, I find myself reflecting on the incredible work we’ve accomplished together. I’m constantly inspired by the dedication, creativity, and heart that each of you brings to your role—whether you’re responding to emergencies, keeping our parks vibrant and safe, or ensuring our community’s needs are met behind the scenes. You are what makes Cosumnes CSD exceptional, and I couldn’t be prouder to serve alongside you.
One of my favorite traditions is just around the corner—our Excellence & Achievement Awards! It’s a time for us to pause, connect, and celebrate all the amazing things you’ve done this year.
Mark your calendars: Wednesday, January 22, at 9:30 a.m. at District 56
In addition to recognizing years of service, we’ll be honoring team members who have gone above and beyond in their roles. Do you know someone who stepped up when it mattered most? Someone who sparked innovation, showed extraordinary leadership, or went the extra mile to support the team? Maybe it’s a Firefighter who brought calm to chaos, a Park Ops team member whose creativity transformed a community space, or an Admin Specialist who found a solution to a tough challenge. Let’s make sure their efforts don’t go unnoticed.
Nomination criteria are outlined in the survey, and it’s quick and easy to submit. The survey is open through December 13, so don’t wait—let’s recognize the incredible people who make Cosumnes CSD such a special place to work.
With gratitude,
Amanda Chehrezad Interim General Manager
SACRAMENTO BUSINESS
JOURNAL 40 UNDER 40 HONOREE
Congratulations to Nou Vang, Cosumnes CSD’s Finance Director, for making the Sacramento Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list! This incredible honor highlights Nou’s professional achievements, leadership qualities, and valuable community contributions.
Since joining the District in 2021, Nou has transformed fiscal practices, skillfully managed a $190M budget, and efficiently handled payroll for over 800 employees. Her pivotal role in implementing Measure E funding and financing the $35M CORE Recreation Center has bolstered public safety services and enhanced community infrastructure.
We are proud to see Nou’s ongoing innovation and commitment to excellence making a positive and lasting impact on our community.
The Leadership Elk Grove Class of 2024 participants have graduated, marking the completion of their community-focused program. This year's participants made a significant impact at the Teen Center USA located on Elk Grove Blvd. Patrick Bitcon, Recreation Supervisor and Stephen Menebroker, Recreation Coordinator were a part of the graduating class.
Through their efforts, they secured donated items and raised over $21,000 to transform the Teen Center with new furniture, computers, music equipment, and an outdoor seating area.This investment in the lives of local teens is invaluable, and the graduates' hard work and dedication have made a lasting impact on the community.
If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference in the Elk Grove community, stay tuned for the upcoming call for applications for the Leadership Elk Grove Class of 2025. This program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to develop their leadership skills, build relationships, and contribute to the betterment of our community.
HONORING OUR VETERANS
Even as the rain fell on Veterans Day, our team stood strong, showing up to honor the men and women who have served our nation. This year, we were honored to have one of our own, Park Ranger Denise Hallock, serve as grand marshal, leading the parade with dedication and pride.
The day began with a heartfelt ceremony in partnership withAmerican Legion Post 233, where we reflected on the courage and sacrifice of our veterans.The streets then came alive with a vibrant parade— flags waving, cheers echoing, and pride shining through the drizzle. Finally, at the community picnic, stories were shared, laughter rang out, and gratitude brought us all closer together.
Though the day has passed, the spirit of unity and appreciation remains. To our veterans, we thank you for your service and sacrifice. To the veterans and family members of veterans on the Cosumnes team, thank you for making this day unforgettable. Together, we showed that rain or shine, we stand united.
Let’s carry this gratitude forward, not just on Veterans Day but every day.
CPRS D2 DAY OF SERVICE
Cosumnes Parks & Recreation staff participated in the California Parks and Recreation Society (CPRS) District 2's initiative, Doing Good 2gether. This program aims to give back to the community and the industry through various service projects. Each year, the CPRS District 2 board selects a service project within the District 2 boundaries, which includes the Greater Sacramento Area.
This year, the City of Sacramento was selected to support the cleaning and restoration of tombstones at the Sacramento Historic City Cemetery. The cemetery, spanning 30 acres, features outdoor museums with historical gravesites, beautiful landscaping, roads, and walking paths. The Cosumnes CSD employees attending the event were Recreation SupervisorAndre Pichly, who also serves as the CPRS District 2 Director of Education, Park Maintenance Worker Matthew Angell, Park Maintenance Worker, Sr. Xavier Basquez, and Park Maintenance Worker Jose Gonzalez. Together, they successfully restored several tombstones dating back hundreds of years and learned about Sacramento's rich history.
427 REASONS TO CELEBRATE
THIS COMMUNITY
October may be behind us, but the warmth of Socktober still shines. Thanks to the generosity of our incredible community, we collected 427 items: socks, hats, gloves, and mittens. Each one is ready to bring comfort and hope to those who need it most.
These donations are more than just essentials; they represent care and kindness. Throughout the holiday season, they’ll be distributed through the Elk Grove Unified School District (EGUSD) SAFE Center to provide warmth and support where it’s needed most.
Because of you, this isn’t just a season of giving—it’s a season of connection. Thank you for making Socktober a success. Together, we’re making a difference, one small act of kindness at a time.
THINKING ABOUT TRYING A COREFIT CLASS?
Here’s what staff member Rachel had to say about Strength Training 101 with Coach Marisa.
"Marisa's Strength Training 101 has been an amazing experience! As my first strength class, I couldn’t be happier. Marisa demonstrates each exercise clearly and offers helpful tips and corrections. I feel supported and encouraged to push my limits and take on new challenges. It’s perfect for beginners—I highly recommend it to anyone starting their fitness journey!"
Ready to get started? Join us and explore our classes here!
SPARKING FUTURES: LOCAL TEENS TRAIN WITH COSUMNES FIREFIGHTERS
The Cosumnes Fire Department proudly opened its doors to 42 local teens on October 19th for an action-packed, adrenaline-pumping day at the Cosumnes Fire Training Center! These aspiring young people, ages 14-18, were given an exclusive opportunity to dive into the world of firefighting, rescue operations, and emergency medical services through hands-on activities led by our experienced firefighters.
The day was filled with real-world scenarios—from live fire drills to search and rescue exercises—where the teens learned invaluable skills and faced thrilling challenges that pushed them to their limits. They worked side-by-side with seasoned professionals as they tackled fire suppression, performed rescue operations, and participated in lifesaving EMS drills.The fire training center became their classroom, and every task they conquered sparked new excitement and possibilities for the future.
With each exercise, it was clear that these young people were not just learning about firefighting—they were igniting a passion for serving others and making a difference in their community. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this incredible day possible, including the dedicated firefighters who shared their expertise, the volunteers who helped organize the event, and the teens who brought energy, enthusiasm, and curiosity to the training center. We can’t wait to see where their journeys lead— perhaps one day, we’ll see them on the front lines, making a difference as first responders!
THE BIG 3-0: CELEBRATING THE GIANT PUMPKIN FESTIVAL’S MILESTONE YEAR
The first weekend of October was a landmark moment for the District as it proudly hosted the 30th annual Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival on October 5 & 6. This treasured event brought together an estimated 45,000 visitors. The festival has been a gourd-geous example of community spirit for three decades, creating countless memories for both the community and staff.
To mark this anniversary, the festival introduced a second Pumpkin Regatta on Saturday, a one-of-a-kind event that paid tribute to the festival's rich history. Four participants represented milestone years: Zach Jones (30 years), Mike Dopson (20 years), Cosumnes CSD Director Angela Spease (10 years), and Desiree Kanemoto (2 years). Spectators cheered enthusiastically as these competitors paddled their giant pumpkins across the water in a thrilling and spirited race.
This year's festival introduced exciting new attractions, including a thrilling BMX rider showcase featuring jaw-dropping stunts and tricks that wowed the crowd, as well as the return of the community pumpkin pie-eating contest, where participants competed for a messy and sweet victory.
Fan-favorite events delighted both newcomers and longtime festival-goers. The Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off showcased some of Northern California's largest pumpkins. A remodeled Pumpkin Village and the always-entertaining Pumpkin Drop offered fun for all ages. Live performances, carnival rides, and various engaging activities ensured something for everyone.
This extraordinary event would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of numerous Cosumnes CSD employees and volunteers. The Ops Squad expertly handled safety, security, and logistics, while the Support Squad managed hospitality, volunteer coordination, and entertainment planning. Additionally, the North, East, and West Squads played a vital role, overseeing activities such as the Regatta, pumpkin launches, art exhibits, and carnival games.
Each squad was led by one chair and supported by at least two captains, pairing full-time staff from the Parks & Recreation Department. Numerous leads also managed specific areas, ensuring every detail was attended to.
A special thank-you goes out to the Cosumnes Fire Department, Administrative Services Department (including Communications, IT, and Building Maintenance), and the Office of the General Manager for their critical roles in making this event a District-wide success.
As we look back on 30 years of Giant Pumpkin Festivals, Cosumnes CSD has grown so much, and with that growth, so has the event. Thank you to all past and present organizers and volunteers.
THE BIG 3-0: CELEBRATING THE GIANT PUMPKIN FESTIVAL’S MILESTONE YEAR
MARCH FOR THE DREAM ON JANUARY 20
You're invited to join the Cosumnes CSD and the City of Elk Grove teams for the regional March for the Dream honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 20, at Sacramento City College. The event will begin with a program at 8:30 a.m., followed by the march departure at 9:15 a.m. from the west parking lot between Hughes Stadium and Sacramento City College.
To participate, please complete this short survey by December 30, 2024. All participants will receive a March for the Dream scarf, and you're also encouraged to invite family members and friends to join you – they'll receive a scarf too! If you have any questions, please contact Risk Manager Tiffany Piper.
We hope to see you there as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy!
COMMUNITY TREE PLANTING
A big thank you to the 18 enthusiastic volunteers from Apple who joined forces with 8 dedicated Cosumnes CSD staff members to plant 40 new trees at Luttig Park! This collaborative effort addressed the significant tree canopy loss the park experienced during recent storms. The newly planted trees will not only restore the park’s beauty but also provide muchneeded shade and deliver long-term environmental benefits to the surrounding neighborhood. Various tree varieties were chosen to ensure biodiversity within the tree canopy. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this impactful project!
Cristyn Vure Sr. ManagementAnalyst
PROMOTIONS/TRANSFER
Patrick Bitcon – Recreation Supervisor
Andre Pichly – Recreation Supervisor (Transfer)
SEPARATIONS
Andrew Samano - Firefighter
MEET MELISSA MUTZ
Melissa joined the District in August 2019 and has been a valuable team member ever since. Melissa values her relationships and contributions to her team in the Administrative Services Department.
Outside of work, Melissa enjoys a variety of hobbies, including golfing, cooking, roller skating, and taking long bike rides on the city's bike trails. Her greatest achievement is being a mother to her two children, Thomas and Delilah.
At home, Melissa's three adorable miniature dachshunds - Lucy, Charlie, and Marciekeep her on her toes! On weekends, she loves taking road trips to explore California, with Half Moon Bay being her favorite destination so far. Melissa feels happiest when entertaining friends at home.
Recently, Melissa tried tent camping for the first time and is excited to go again soon!
