By Kathy Schwartz
As you enter the property office of Ouabache State Park, you will be greeted with a smile that tells you that you are in the right place.
Joni Cincotta is the property office manager. She has only been on the job since September, when she replaced Louise Miller, who retired after 30 years of service.
“There’s a lot to learn, especially all the paperwork and ordering procedures. Actually, this is the hardest part of the job!” Cincotta said.
Cincotta is responsible for the usual duties of any office manager – filing, recording, correspondence and answering the phones. Cincotta has plenty experience with those duties, as she was a manager of a medical department for 20 years.
“The best part of my job is greeting visitors. They often come in with questions or to purchase park passes, licenses or boat access permits. I enjoy hearing about where they are from and why they are here at Ouabache,” Cincotta said. “It’s the PR aspects of the job that makes my day!”
Cincotta was hired as the visitor numbers started to decline for the winter season.
“I am looking forward to my first camping season. I am sure the pace will definitely pick up. I came in at the perfect time. The slower pace gave me a chance to learn procedures without being rushed.”
One of the areas of the office she enjoys is the Swag Corner. Without an official gift shop area, Joni manages the items that visitors can purchase for souvenirs. She stocks a variety of items, including pins, T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, patches and key chains.
“I love being involved with the Friends of Ouabache. They are always planning events and volunteering to help,” Cincotta said. “They are a good resource for the park. I am excited to start planning monthly events that showcase the many wonderful features of Ouabache.”
Cincotta confesses she is not an expert naturalist.
“People assume that I can answer their questions about nature because I work here,” Cincotta said. “Thank goodness there are staff naturalists that come to my aid! I am learning more each day.”
Though not an avid camper, Cincotta is thrilled to be working at the park. She credits her late husband for instilling a love for nature.
“You can’t help feel good when you are out in nature. It gives you an inner peace. It is food for your soul, and I get that every day I am here.”
Cincotta is often the first person that people have contact with here at Ouabache. She is a great ambassador for the park. Stop in, say hi and make her day! l
Comentarios