50 Nebraskaland • May 2019
MIXED BAG
If you've ever contacted the Reservation Call Center for
Nebraska State Parks, you know who CJ Zajicek is. She's
the one who's always nice to you – the one whose positive,
personable attitude and interest in you makes you feel like
you were her only phone call of the day – just the way great
customer service should be.
CJ has been working for the call center since it opened
in 2004, taking calls for the 26 Nebraska state parks and
recreation areas that accept advance reservations. She hears
from people all over the United States and sometimes from
other countries.
Though reservations can be made online, CJ still receives
plenty of calls – and for good reason. Parks Director Jim
Swenson said, because of CJ's care and compassion, "People
want to talk to her, and know that she's a person who can
help. And we as an agency can rest assured that those
customers are in good hands with her."
CJ has several thank-you emails from campers printed
out and hung up by her desk, alongside pictures of her
grandchildren. One such email thanks her for "going above
and beyond the call of duty" while another comments that
she makes customers feel like they are "her No. 1 concern."
She appreciates the campers as much as they appreciate
her. When asked what she likes the most about her job, CJ's
answer was immediate. "The people. And being able to help
them – they're so grateful."
For more information on camping in Nebraska state parks,
including how to make a reservation, call CJ at 402-471-1414
or visit nebraskastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
THE RV LADY
By Katie Larsen
PHOTOS
BY
JEFF
KURRUS