List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
President of Punjabi America Association since 2010.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? I saw it on Facebook
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
12 years of annual sports event for all age groups @ PAAM's annual Festival. Working with the Park and Rec staff closely for different community events.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
No- I feel a great park should have picnic tables, playing area for the kids, water fountain, BBQ area, water for pets, some shaded area, well maintained grass. No graffiti on any structure or any dog waste on the grass.
Tony Dhaliwal
Tell us about yourself (i.e. background, education, career experience, interests).
My name is Shawn Fraser, and I was born and raised in San Joaquin County. After I graduated from Sierra High School, I got my associates degree in fire science and became a reserve firefighter for four years. One of my favorite memories was participating in the Lodi Parade of Lights; I rode around in a firetruck and passed out candy. As of right now, I am happily married to my wife, and I have two daughters. They both part in Manteca Area Soccer League for three years and then furthered their experience by joining Manteca Futbol Club.
They also participated on the recreational swim team, Manteca Dolphins. Some of my interests include coaching soccer, spending time with my family, camping, helping my community, and fishing. When my daughters were little, I enjoyed chaperoning their field trips and helping their teachers. I also donate clothes, stuffed animals, as well as canned goods to those in need. My goal is to contribute time and effort in order to augment the programs within my community.
List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
Manteca Futbol Club’s liaison officer Manteca Dolphins Vice President for one year, and President for three years Sierra High School soccer coach Manteca Area Soccer League soccer coach Waterloo Morada Fire District board member Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? Eric Culpepper mentioned this opportunity to me.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
Soccer is a great passion of mine. When my daughters were old enough to enroll in sports, I enrolled them in Manteca Area Soccer League. I also took the opportunity to better my coaching skills by becoming an assistant coach for this program for two years. During this time, I learned many coaching fundamentals that I still utilize today. After my daughters moved onto Manteca Futbol Club, I desired to better my coaching experience, so I joined the Manteca Futbol Club’s coaching staff. I worked with many great coaches, including Jay Mamorno, and James Burns. I assisted Mamorno with his 08 pre-MPL girls team, and I assisted Burns with his Turlock Academica WUSL team. Working with these coaches allowed me to learn and teach the technical aspect of soccer, which brought me a lot of success while coaching. I further utilized my experiences by coaching Sierra High School’s girls’ soccer team. Adding on, my daughters swam for the recreational swim team Manteca Dolphins. I had no idea about the competitive side of swimming, but I wanted to learn more.
So, I asked many questions and talked to many people on the board. As I learn more about swimming, I wanted to further involve myself with the program. So, I became the vice president of the swim team for one year. I significantly enjoyed uplifting the team and bettering and it’s program, so I applied to become president. Fortunately, I was given the opportunity to be the president for three years. During my time, I learned that swimming has many technical aspects, and it’s not only about moving arms and kicking legs. One of my daughters still participate on the Manteca Dolphins swim team, while my other daughter moved on and joined Ripon Aquatics.
Shawn L Fraser
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
A while ago, I was given the opportunity to attend the Manteca Town Hall meeting. In this meeting, I collaborated in a group to discuss building parks and leisure activities for the youth. My creative imagination shined during this activity. I am grateful to have met so many people in my community that shared similar ideas. In my ideal neighborhood park, I would enjoy sitting on the bleachers of a multifunctional soccer complex, knowing I have easy access to food, beverages, and bathrooms. In this complex, I would also include some baseball and softball fields. To the left of the complex I would place a wide area for parking, and next to that would be a golf course. In the center of my park, I would implement a gazebo with picnic tables. There would be Basketball fields and Pickleball fields to the left, and a dog park to the right. Moving forward, there would be a community playground for the youth. Throughout the park, I would implement drinking fountains and trash bins.
Shawn L Fraser
Tell us about yourself (i.e. background, education, career experience, interests).
Education: BS Degree in Civil Engineering, Master of Science Degree in Civil Engineering, Licensed Civil Engineer in California. Experience: City of Modesto 2004-Present 2015- Present, Director of Public Works Responsible for Operation & Maintenance of public infrastructure including Airport, Buildings, Compost Facility, Landfills, Fleet, Urban Forestry, Parking, Street Sweeping, Streets, Curb/Gutter/Sidewalk, Traffic, Solid Waste and Recycling etc. As Director of Public Works also managed city parks and recreational facilities from 2015-2020. 2004-2015 - City Engineer Managed Planning, Design, Environmental, Construction and permitting functions. State of California, Department of Water Resources 1994-1998 State of California, Department of Transportation (Caltrans) 1998-2004 List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
As Director of Public Works, I Participate in several committees, boards and commissions including. Airport Advisory Committee, Blight Abatement Committee, Planning Commission, Cultural Commission, Tuolumne River Regional Park JPA, City/County Building JPA etc.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? City of Manteca Website
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
City of Modesto: 2015-2019; 4 years As a Director of Public Works participated in all activities related to Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
As an engineer, I have experience in planning, design, construction and maintenance of parks & recreation facilities. Parks needs to be centrally located and accessible to everyone.
Inclusive parks should offer same experience to everyone regardless of age, gender, cultural background or abilities. Safet, Cleanliness, Walking Path, Public Arts, Cultural Events, Picnic Areas, Play & Exercise equipment for all ages are essential elements of a modern park.
Balhar B Sandhu
Tell us about yourself (i.e. background, education, career experience, interests).
Education: I have a bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture from CalPoly San Luis Obispo. Master's degree in Urban and Regional City planning from San Jose State University.
Background: I was born in South America and have been living in the USA for more than 4 decades. I am fluent in Spanish and English. I am interested in outdoor activities biking swimmimg, hiking, crossfit, and photography. I enjoy reading historical mystery novels and love to build thing around my house. Career experience: Spartan Keyes and Five Wounds- I participated in an indepth community assessment of the neighborhoods San Jose for potential infrastructure improvements such sidewalks, transit amenities, and open green spaces. Midtown San Jose's- A survey of a blighted area involved interaction with city staff and community members. Developed a comprehensive plan for remediating contaminated soil and prepared a design plan for open spaces with community amenities. Alcatraz Island, CA- In cooperation with the Golden Gate National Recreational Areas and the US Department of the Interior, National Parks Services, designed a new identity for Alcatraz Island. Piedra Blancas Lighthouse, CA- Designed a comprehensive plan for private research and public visitation of the historic grounds, which included trail systems, restoration of the lighthouse grounds, research center, and nature and wildlife observation areas. Yosemite Youth Science Camp, Yosemite, CA- Design a new facility for Yosemite Science Camp, which included parking areas, trails, educational facilities, outdoor sports storage facilities, a cafeteria, dormitories, and employee living areas. Ikagen Itireleng Soweton, South Africa- Designed and constructed a children's play area, two open, multi-use spaces for counseling, and various activities and events. A basketball court and a memorial. Ikihivili Primary School Kei Mouth, South Africa- Designed and constructed a children's play area, two counseling areas, a basketball court, a fountain for children to play, and a memorial in memory of the parent who died of AIDS.
List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
I have not served on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? I hear about this opportunity from a current Planning Commissioner.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
I have no experience with and/or involvement in youth sports activities within Manteca or elsewhere.
Floralba Pucci
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
I have designed several parks and open spaces around California and overseas. The following highlights some design and planning exercises: Seating areas with benches, picnic tables, and shade areas for rest, gathering, and relaxation; restrooms, shade structures to protect from the hot summer sun; BBQ areas with litter receptacles to keep the park clean; bike racks; multifunctional spaces that can be used for various activities and events; water features like fountains, ponds, or streams; smart technology interaction wi-fi connectivity, interactive maps, and smartphone apps with information about the local environment; dogfriendly areas; trails for walking, jogging, and biking paths; sports fields; nature areas for observing wildlife, hiking, and exploring nature; swimming pools and splash pads for water activities and recreation; amphitheater for event performances and gatherings.
Floralba Pucci
List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
I don't have any experience serving on any local government boards.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? I expressed interest and Marco Martinez encouraged me to apply.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
I have experience in Modesto and Sacramento regions with refereeing sports and working as a life guard. My only experience in Manteca would be a cycling group.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
While my professional background is focused on marketing and digital strategy, rather than park planning or design, I do have a strong understanding of community engagement and the importance of creating spaces that people love. My experience in leading marketing campaigns and driving brand awareness has given me insight into understanding audience needs and preferences. When I think about a great neighborhood park, I envision a space that fosters community and caters to a diverse range of users. Here's what I believe makes a park truly special: Size and Layout: A flexible space that can accommodate both active and passive recreation. I would aim for a design that balances open green spaces with designated activity zones. Amenities: A well-designed playground with equipment suitable for various age groups, promoting inclusive play. Picnic areas with shaded tables and seating, encouraging social gatherings and family outings. Walking and biking paths that connect different areas of the park and promote healthy living. A dedicated dog park area, separated for small and large breeds, to foster a pet-friendly environment. Clean and accessible restrooms. A small stage or open area that could be used for community events.
Sports Fields: Depending on the size and community needs, a multi-purpose field for soccer, football, or other sports, as well as basketball or volleyball courts. Natural Elements:
Incorporating native plants and trees to provide shade, enhance aesthetics, and create a sense of tranquility. Water features, like a small fountain or pond, can also add to the park's appeal. Accessibility: Ensuring the park is accessible to people of all abilities, with paved pathways, ramps, and inclusive play equipment. Community Input: Most importantly, I believe a great neighborhood park is one that reflects the needs and desires of the community it serves. Gathering input from residents through surveys, workshops, or community meetings is crucial in the planning process.
Kyle J Gier
Kyle J Gier
Tell us about yourself (i.e. background, education, career experience, interests).
I have lived in Manteca for 44 years, I graduated from East Union High School. I have owned various businesses within the Manteca downtown area. Now being in the hospitability business, I love helping people and serving the community. I have worked with the Recreation Department on various programs and events and would like to use my talents to help their Department excel. I have experience with various sports programs within the community and would love to see our parks expand and provide services to our community.
List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
Currently I serve as a board member on the Manteca Chamber of Commerce, I also serve as the head for the events committee for the Chamber. I also serve on the Manteca Downtown PBID Board. I am also a docent for the Manteca Historical Society.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? I was recommended by City Council, City Attorney and the Recreation Department to apply.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
I have served as a soccer coach for MASL for 2 years. I have worked with the Recreation Department on various community events. I have also worked with various non-profits in Manteca on events and fundraisers.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
I don't have any experience on park planning or design per se. I have shared my ideas and opinions on improvements to parks and amenities within parks.
Charles D Paz
List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
This would be my first Board & Commission
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? Went to city council meeting where it was mentioned that the positions were recently unfilled and looking for volunteers
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
I coached many years (6-7) in the Manteca Little league. I also played in men’s softball for 20 years
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
I am a director of a large food ministry here in Manteca. I also coached Little league here in Manteca for many years where we used most of the parks for practice. With both the ministry where we hold large functions and the impact of practice to a parks overall effectiveness I believe I have a good understanding of the dynamics and value a well designed parkas for each of various usages by the community. In addition, raising 4 sons here, the park system was a vital part of their upbringing that to this day, reminds me of how important it is to manage and to assure a well thought out park maintenance and upgrade plan is available to city planners
Timothy D Bowers
Tell us about yourself (i.e. background, education, career experience, interests).
Hello, my name is Gloria Abril Monroy. I’m originally from Tijuana, Mexico and San Diego, but I spent over seven years studying and working in Washington DC. I’m really interested in cooking, writing, hiking, learning foreign languages, and participating in social/networking/cultural events. I'm a native Spanish speaker, and I speak Portuguese and French professionally. I hold a basic comprehension of Hindi and Russian. As part of my education, I did my Bachelor’s degree in International Studies at American University and did my Master’s degree in Latin American Studies with a focus in Economic and Political Development at Georgetown University in Washington DC. Throughout my graduate school experience, I participated in cultural affinity groups such as the Latin American Student Organization and the South Asian Policy and Research Initiative, and took leadership roles in immigrant organizations such as the Migrant and Refugee Policy Initiative. Regarding my career experience, I have over three years in managing projects based in Latin America and the United States (specifically in San Diego County and San Bernardino County) in the areas of food security and agriculture, water security, employment and job training, and positive youth development governance through civic engagement. Throughout my experience, I have taken learning and leadership opportunities to learn about policy-making and implementation and provide input for important community-needs assessments that evaluate community transportation and recreation needs. You may be wondering why I am residing in Manteca after living in Washington DC. The reason for me being here is that my significant other lives here since he works in Alameda County. Since I moved here, I have been interested in volunteer experiences like this one, where I can provide my input on what could work based on the needs of Manteca residents. I want to become a proactive and involved member of our community who wants the best for the residents of Manteca.
List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
I don’t have experience serving in Boards and Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhere. However, there is always a first-time opportunity for a young professional candidate to provide helpful feedback and innovation for decision making on the subject of recreation and parks development, and community involvement.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? I heard about this opportunity through an Instagram post posted by the City of Manteca (@cityofmanteca). I called the Recreation and Community Services and the Department of Human Resources to inquire on the application process. Thankfully, they guided me to access this application online. I also saw this vacancy in a Manteca community Facebook group where I read posts from Manteca residents.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
I haven’t had experience and/or involvement in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca. However, I had the opportunity to tutor bilingual Spanishspeaking children to improve their English reading fluency in a community-based organization located in Washington DC for one year. Twice a week, I would read books to them in English and explain their meaning.
Gloria A Monroy
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
I don’t have experience in park planning or design, but I do believe my experience in project management provides insight for this opportunity. A requirement should be to engage effectively with community organizations and communicate innovative ideas to the City Council. My idea of a great neighborhood park is one that is used by the majority of families in Manteca that creates unity and togetherness across the city. I have seen that most of the parks are scattered and some are rarely used (especially in the North side of Manteca). It would be great to ask the neighbors what they wish to see in their community through a needs assessment. One observation I’ve made so far is that although Manteca has the Tidewater Bikeway, the Northern side of Manteca does not have an official running track for people to go for a walk or run only. Another project that would be great to have is for Manteca to have a recreation and aquatic center that includes an indoor pool for people to use throughout the year, an art room, a community lounge for senior citizens, game rooms, a gymnasium, a fitness center, and a social hall with a kitchen. To maintain this recreation center, it would be great to open job opportunities for Manteca residents and require residents to pay a membership price or daily admissions price.
Gloria A Monroy
List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
I have been on the MASL board for 4 years first serving as Coach Coordinator then moving into a position that came with bigger responsibilities, as the Commissioner. I work closely with the Parks and Rec department. Participate in Master Plan Meeting Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? Mayor of Manteca through Facebook post and another employee Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
I have been involved with the City youth program for Jr Giants. I have been a soccer coach with Manteca Area Soccer League (MASL) for 5 years. I have worked with the Girls Scouts and hold a leadership position within our Troop.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
Great neighborhood parks should have restrooms, shade and equipment available for those with disabilities. Sports fields to accommodate the growing housing communities, youth population interested in youth sports, from but not limited to Soccer, Skateboarding, Football, Softball/baseball to name a few. I have been a supporter of Measure Q and our City.
I have sat in the Masterplan meetings.
Aimee R Pratali
List any experiences you have serving on other Boards & Commissions in the City of Manteca or elsewhwere.
Worked for the City of Tracy, Manteca, Stockton. Also Oakwood Lake Resort. Played softball for 27 years-Nationals 7 times, years of experience as a player, coach, teacher, umpire, referee, official, score keeper, team mom, etc. C.E.R.T., Rapid Response, Manteca Visitors Center-volunteer & president, Manteca Historical Society, Soroptimist (Manteca Chapter, Tracy Wildlife Association, American Therapeutic Association, American Therapeutic Association, Bay Area Therapeutic Association, California Parks and Recreation Association, and American Correctional Association.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
How did you hear about the Recreation and Parks Commission vacancy? I have been on the commission now for years!
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Please describe your experience and/or involvement (including number of years) in youth sports and recreational activities within the City of Manteca or elsewhere.
I have 50 years experience between Tracy, Manteca, Stockton, & San Jose. Everything is listed above.
Question applies to Recreation & Parks Commission
Do you have any experience in park planning or design? What is your idea of a great neighborhood park (i.e. amenities, size, sports fields picnic tables, equipment, etc.)?
I did my internship at Oakwood Lake & helped design the softball complex, outdoor staking park, the outdoor amphitheater, and numerous areas at the facility. A great neighborhood park would be as big as possible to accommodate as many people as possible to do as many things as possible with the number of possible residents. My job as a recreational therapist will aid in neighborhood park planning and design because my focus is to provide treatment service designed to restore, remediate and rehabilitate a persons level of functioning and independence in life activities and to promote health and wellness as well as reduce or eliminate the activity limitations and restrictions to participate in life situations caused by illness or disabling condition. With this in mind I can help assist where ever needed.
Lori Tiago-Quintana