Macomb County, MI

30/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 30/08/2024 15:12

Macomb Matters - August 2024 Issue 95

Message from Mark

Hello and welcome to the August edition of the employee newsletter, Macomb Matters. As you're all aware, summer is winding down and school is heading back to session. There are teachers anxiously awaiting their new classes, and parents sending their children off to grade school or college. We all know that this period can be exciting as it signifies new beginnings and enthusiasm for the future. So I want to wish everyone a successful year.

But before we enter this new chapter of fall, there are a few weeks left of summer to enjoy outside activities, such as dining by the water, catching music in the park events, watching United Shores Professional Baseball League games at Jimmy John's Field, attending concerts at Freedom Hill and visiting local farmers markets across the county.

Just this last month alone, I've attended multiple events across our 27 communities, including the first annual Martha T. Berry Medical Care Facility car show and MCCMH's Health and Wellness Fair. On August 13, residents came out to Freedom Hill County Park in support of our Macomb County Law Enforcement agencies for National Night Out. Before that, I celebrated the 100th birthday of Fran Metcalf, an original 'Rosie the Riveter' who served in the navy from 1944-1946. We thank her for her service and ask that if you know any other 'centenarians', please reach out to Macomb County Office of Senior Services at 586-469-5228 or email [email protected]. You can check out our upcoming Centenarian Celebration in October here.

In addition to the fun, we also have multiple Department of Roads operations left to go, including the recent initiative, Safe Streets for Macomb County, that asks for community input to create a comprehensive action plan that will prioritize roadway projects that directly address resident feedback. Safe Streets will also support MCDR's efforts to secure future funding opportunities. As employees who travel Macomb County streets every day to get to work, we hope that you too will participate in this endeavor by completing the survey, which can be found at hub.macombsafestreets.com.

In closing, I want to thank each and everyone of you for all you do to make Macomb County a great place to live, work and explore. I encourage you to experience your impact on this community, no matter how small, by getting out there and enjoying what's left of the summer.

Thank you and take care,

Mark

Employee news and accolades

Hali Lenney announces baby Hazel

Hali Lenney, a senior economic development specialist for Macomb County Planning and Economic Development, welcomed Hazel Monroe Lenney in July. Congratulations on your growing family, Hali!

Macomb County Sheriff's Office hosts successful Badges and Backpacks drive

The Badges and Backpacks initiative is designed to deliver backpacks filled with supplies to school-aged children in need. Donations of backpacks and school supplies were accepted until July 19, 2024. Julie Juncaj, Macomb County Sheriff's Office public safety strategist, initiated this drive back in 2017, and it has continued to grow and become a staple event for the community. She stated that although getting the supplies together and stuffing the backpacks is not an easy task, "every second is worth it, knowing that you are helping a child in need and putting smiles on their faces." It is a team effort in which staff comes together to help those in need in our very own community.

This was one of the Sheriff Office's biggest drives ever - with 574 backpacks being distributed to four school districts (Chippewa Valley, L'Anse Creuse, Mt. Clemens, and New Haven). All donations for the initiative came from the citizens of Macomb County, Macomb County Sheriff's Office and Reserve Units, Michigan FOP Foundation, Fraternal Order of Police - State Lodge of Michigan (Lodge #187), Macomb County Probate Court, Macomb County Sheriff's Office Explorers, Warthogs Motorcycle Club, and Centerline Police & Reserve Unit.

Wendy Smith welcomes new grandbaby

Wendy Smith, an employee of HRLR, recently welcomed her newest grandbaby. Emma Sheryl Hicks was born on August 13, 2024, weighing 9 pounds, 10 ounces and measuring 20 inches long. Congratulations on the addition, Wendy!

Jim Surowiec participates in Mackinac Bridge Swim

On July 20, 2024, Jim Surowiec, assistant corporation counsel, participated in the annual Mackinac Bridge Swim, which benefits First Responders of Michigan. Jim completed the 4.5 mile swim across the Straits of Mackinac alongside the beautiful Mackinac Bridge in astounding time, finishing 29th out of 165 participants! Congratulations, Jim!

Adam Santo announces birth of daughter

On August 9, 2024, Department of Roads employee Adam Santo and his wife Avary welcomed baby girl, Josie Mae. Congratulations Santo family!

Celebrating employee milestones

Congratulations to all Macomb County employees who reached significant employment milestones in July and August:

Employee Focus:

As the County welcomes more people into our workforce, the Macomb Matters team would love to spotlight newly appointed Deputy County Executive Tom Lehrer. Keep reading to see what he has to say about his job and life outside of work!

What is your current position, and what do you do?

I was recently appointed Deputy County Executive. My new role will expand the public information officer role to better connect the county's strategic communications and public engagement efforts. I'll lead a talented team of communication professionals from across the county to ensure the county's communications, marketing, and branding efforts are maximized so that the public has access to information about the valuable programs and resources available to them. Additionally, I'll be working closely with Chief Jeff Randazzo at Macomb County Animal Control to help support their mission and the essential services they provide to our community.

What led you to this career, and what are some of the challenges you face?

My career has been shaped by a strong commitment to communication, education and community service. After teaching first and second grade in Detroit Public Schools, spending 20 years at AT&T in Global Sales, as well as building a successful, small but mighty digital media company, I developed a passion for learning, teaching, service to others, communication and leadership. Transitioning to my new role here at the county seems like a natural step and the culmination of all my career opportunities.

What have you found most rewarding about your career? What attracted you to a career at Macomb County?

The most rewarding aspect of my career has been the opportunity to interact with so many wonderful people who work hard everyday to make a meaningful impact on our community. Whether it's through relevant communication or supporting purposeful initiatives, I take great pride in knowing that the work we do together helps improve the lives of others. What attracted me to a career at Macomb County was the chance to serve in a role where I could use my skills to contribute to the growth and development of the people I work with as well as those we support in our community.

Briefly describe your education/alma mater.

I earned my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Western Michigan University, where I also played Division I College Soccer during my four years. My academic path included minors in Math and Science and Creative Arts, which allowed me to cultivate a broad range of interests and skills.

Briefly tell us about your family (pets count too!).

I'm married to Jennifer (29 years in October), an art teacher in the Utica school district, who also serves on the Arts Authority Board for Macomb County. We have two wonderful adult children, Ayden and Isabella, who are both successful. Both have recently become engaged to their significant other and we are looking forward to officially welcoming them to the family next year. Our family is grounded in education and creativity, and we take pride in supporting one another in all our successes, challenges and aspirations.

I am extremely fortunate to still have both of my parents who are still extremely active in their 80's. My mother, Virginia (Lopez) from Mexico, and my father, Horst, from Germany met in Detroit in the 1960's and became US citizens in the 1990's. Both live up north near Cadillac and I try to visit with them as often as I can.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I love spending time with family and friends. I'm an avid mountain biker and enjoy spending time in the great outdoors. I'm also passionate about travel, learning new things, listening to motivating podcasts and staying active in sports. Additionally, I find joy in volunteering, whether it's delivering Meals on Wheels to seniors or supporting local organizations like Angels' Place that was founded by my Aunt Annemarie Lopez in 1992.

Briefly describe something you are passionate about, or a philosophy you embrace, or a topic that matters greatly to you.

This is a difficult question because I am passionate about many things, but I do keep a list of 'bacon bits' which are quotes, things I hear people say or thoughts I have that are inspiring to me.

Two of my more recent bacon bits that made the list,

'Success is not permanent and failure is not final' (Not sure if someone said this or I just heard it somewhere)

'Today I will do what others won't, so tomorrow I will accomplish what others can't' (Jerry Rice)

Retiree spotlight

Click here for a list of retirees

Interns make impact on Macomb County during summer season

Several Macomb County departments were able to bring on summer interns this year. But now the season is coming to a close, and those students will be returning to school. So as a send off and acknowledgement of their hard work and dedication, Macomb Matters is highlighting a small group of young people that contributed to the Macomb County mission the last several months.

Macomb County Planning and Economic Development

This summer MCPED was proud to have two interns on staff - Gabriella Noble and Robert Gurzick. Gabby was an economic development intern, while Rob, who will remain with the department through the fall, assists the parks and natural resources team.

Meet Gabriella Noble

Gabby is a sophomore at U of M where she is studying economics and business. She enjoys traveling and going to football games.

"My name is Gabriella Noble and I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan, where I am planning to major in economics with a minor in business. For the past few months, I have been working with Macomb County Planning and Economic Development as a summer intern on the economic development team. Upon discovering this internship opportunity, I believed it to be an awesome chance to gain some insight into the professional world, even though I was not exactly sure what "economic development" entailed at the time. Since then, I have learned so much about the field of economic development, and seen firsthand how hard this team works to assist an abundance of local businesses around Macomb County. For example, helping them find grant money to fund their expansions, offering programs to train a qualified workforce, and so much more! This experience has allowed me to discover new career options that pique my interest, and I am excited to apply the knowledge and skills I have gained here to my studies at the University of Michigan and future career endeavors. It has been wonderful working with such an amazing group of people!"

Meet Rob Gurzick

Rob is working on a variety of PNR projects and initiatives. He currently attends Michigan State University and is studying environmental geography. In his free time he loves being outdoors and having an impact on his community.

"I love being outside and working on multiple projects at once, which this position allows me to do," Rob said when asked what drew him to the department. "It has been fantastic so far being able to work alongside such a great team and I am extremely grateful for the guidance I receive from them every day!"

Macomb County Department of Roads

The internship program at the Department of Roads (MCDR) allows students and future professionals to gain valuable experience while helping strengthen and enhance Macomb County's road, bridge and transportation infrastructure. Eight students participated in MCDR's summer internship program, which included 10 weeks of real-world experience and public service at multiple MCDR departments including administration, engineering, finance, human resources, maintenance and traffic. These future professionals played a vital role at MCDR, bringing fresh perspectives, enthusiasm and innovate ideas to the workplace.

Meet Alexa Kendall

Alexa is a senior studying Human Resource Development at Oakland University (go Grizzlies!). During her time at the Human Resources Labor and Relations department, Kendall gained valuable experience including learning day-to-day human resources operations, practices and processes of Macomb County and MCDR. Kendall's favorite part of her internship experience was being able to be a part of the Macomb County team, getting to know how a county government operates, and volunteering as part of the success of the Health Styles Employee Health Fair.

Meet Maria Adamo

Maria is a media and communications senior at Miami University (rise up Red Hawks!) who is also earning a minor in marketing. While at MCDR, Adamo was a jack of all trades and contributed to multiple departments including administration, permits, finance, and communications. In her role, she worked closely with department personnel to digitize documents, organize databases, write media relations materials, and create social media content. Adamo enjoyed learning about the roles and responsibilities of each department, how projects are funded, and seeing road work in action!

Meet Matthew Santo

Matthew is a junior studying Finance at Central Michigan University (fire up Chips!). During his time at MCDR, Matthew supported the Finance department by building reports, organizing budget information and materials, and coordinating finance activities. Santo gained valuable skills and learned about useful tools and resources that he will be able to apply at school and in the workforce. He enjoyed working with the team at MCDR and getting the opportunity to gain hands-on experience applicable to his career pathway.

Meet Victoria Rutkowski

Victoria is a sophomore pursuing a Civil Engineering degree with a minor in mathematics at Western Michigan University (Broncos reign!). While at MCDR, Rutkowski used Open Roads Design (similar to auto-cad) to create plans for future road projects, learned how MCDR prioritized projects, and gained valuable experience planning for future projects and documenting project information. Her favorite highlight of the internship was going out into the field to see construction in action and how projects come together with the highest level of teamwork.

Future professionals who also participated in MCDR's summer internship program included Fatima Soueidan (Traffic), Brandon DeVos (Traffic), Riley Drwencke (Maintenance), and Sean Rizo (Maintenance). MCDR is proud of their work and would like thank everyone who participated in the internship program for the positive contributions they made in Macomb County this year.

By providing meaningful experiences and professional development opportunities for students and future professionals, Macomb County and MCDR are preparing the next generation of leaders while ensuring the talent pipeline is ready to hit the road running.

Adventures in traffic safety

To mark National Traffic Safety Awareness Month, John K. Abraham, director of Traffic and Operations for the Macomb County Department of Roads, wrote a fantastic article explaining how we can all keep our roadways safe for drivers and pedestrians alike:

Traffic safety is serious business. It's the difference between getting home in time to binge-watch your favorite show or spending the evening explaining to a stern-faced officer why your excuse for speeding involves a runaway squirrel. Despite the inherent seriousness, there's room for a little humor as we navigate the rules and nuances of traffic safety. So, buckle up (pun intended) and let's take a humorous yet informational drive on the road we call traffic safety.

The great roundabout mystery

To some, roundabouts are as perplexing as quantum physics. "Do I go now?"..."What about now?"..."Why is that car circling endlessly?"...they ponder. While roundabouts are meant to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents, they only work if used correctly. Unless you enjoy the thrill of vehicular bumper cars, just follow these rules. Don't worry, I promise it's not rocket science. When entering a roundabout, always yield to traffic already within a roundabout, use your turn signals, and exit safely. See? Not such a mystery after all.

The speed limit: A suggestion, not a dare

Speed limits are not like dares from your high school friends, they are there for a reason - primarily to ensure you remain in the land of the living. Speed signs are carefully calculated figures designed to keep everyone safe and are based on road conditions, traffic flow, and safety considerations per Michigan law.

Consider residential areas for a moment. The speed limits are intentionally set low due to the presence of children, pets, and occasionally adults who may unexpectedly dash into the street. It's a scenario ripe for disaster if you're zooming through these areas at highway speeds. Did you know that speeding contributes to approximately 26% of all traffic fatalities? The next time you're in a rush, just remember - it's better to be late than never make it at all. Plus, you can always blame the traffic for your tardiness. Driving is not a race, it's a journey, and it's always better to arrive late than never.

The perils of distracted driving

Remember the good old days when the biggest distraction in the car was your sibling trying to poke you from the back seat? Now, we have smartphones - the Swiss Army knives of the modern world. They do everything including text, call, navigate, and even tell you what song is playing on the radio. However, there is one thing they shouldn't do - distract you while driving. Distracted driving is comparable to playing the toughest level of a video game without any extra lives.

Those who text and drive are 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash. That's not a typo, so consider this. Taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds at 55 mph is equivalent to driving the length of a football field blindfolded. What if the car in front suddenly brakes? What if a person or animal darts onto the road? By staying vigilant, you can react swiftly and safely. Put the phone down. No text is worth your life. Yes, even that hilarious cat meme can wait.

The seatbelt chronicles

Ah, the seatbelt. The simplest, most effective life-saving device in your car. Yet, some act as if it's comparable to a medieval torture device. "It's uncomfortable!" they whine, as if wearing it is as restrictive as donning a straitjacket. It's akin to refusing to wear a life jacket on a boat because you "trust your swimming skills." To be clear, seatbelts reduce the risk of fatalities by 45% for front-seat passengers and by 60% for drivers. They also prevent you from becoming a human missile. Just wear your seatbelt, it's less constricting than a casket.

Drunk driving: The ultimate buzzkill

Drunk driving is like playing Russian roulette with a car. About one-third of all traffic fatalities in Macomb County involve a drunk driver. You may think you're the exception and you're perfectly capable of driving after a few drinks. When you're drunk, your reaction time is slower than a sloth on a lazy Sunday and your decision-making skills are on par with a toddler in a candy store. Let's not forget the public service announcements. "Friends don't let friends drive drunk." If your friends are still letting you drive after you've been drinking, you might need new friends - the kind who will take your keys and call you a cab, or better yet, who will also DoorDash you a pizza after you've arrived home safely.

The red-light dilemma

Red lights. Some drivers see them as mere suggestions rather than a traffic command. "That light was still yellow, right?" they rationalize as they speed through the intersection. Here's an eye-opening fact. Running red lights is the leading cause of urban crashes. It's dangerous not just for the drivers, but for everyone else on the road. The thrill of saving a few seconds isn't worth the risk of causing an accident, injuries, or fatalities. The next time you're tempted to beat the light, remember a few moments of waiting could save you from a lifetime of regret. Plus, you can use that time to practice your in-car concert singing skills.

The mysteries of turn signals, a blinking dilemma

The turn signal is an ancient device, apparently as mysterious and confounding as the Great Pyramids. Some drivers act as if signaling their intentions is akin to revealing state secrets. "Should I use my blinker? No, let them guess!" Turn signals aren't just optional accessories, they are essential tools for communicating with other drivers. Failing to use them causes confusion, accidents, and the occasional case of road rage. Using your indicators is like sending a polite text message to your fellow road users: "Hey, just letting you know, I'm turning right. No surprises here!"

Pedestrian crossings: Not just decorative art

Pedestrian crosswalks are another crucial element of traffic safety that are often ignored. These black-and-white striped zones are not optical illusions or suggestions, they are legally protected areas where pedestrians have the right of way. Imagine a world where crosswalks are respected, pedestrians wouldn't have to channel their inner Olympic sprinter to cross the street and drivers wouldn't have to perform emergency stops. It's a win-win situation. In 2019, more than 6,200 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in the U.S. That's roughly one pedestrian every 85 minutes. So, drivers, keep your eyes peeled for those on foot, and pedestrians, remember to look both ways. Because in the game of car vs. human, the car always wins.

The four seasons in Michigan - or just winter and construction?

Picture this: you're driving down one of 1,800 miles of county roadways, dreaming of the perfect summer day on the lake, when suddenly, BAM - you hit a work zone. It's like the universe reminding you that nothing worth having comes easy, especially not smooth roads in Michigan. But hey, at least the construction season is mercifully short - just from March to November!

Those workers in the bright vests are not setting up an elaborate obstacle course to test your driving skills. They're out there in the unpredictable Michigan weather, from blistering heat to surprise snow flurries in May, making sure you don't need a new suspension every spring. So, give them a break - slow down, pay attention, and save the Mario Kart maneuvers for the video games. The next time you hit a work zone in Macomb County, take a deep breath and remember those orange barrels are your friends. They're guiding you to a future where driving isn't a test of your car's durability. Slow down, stay alert, and remember the road professionals in bright vests working on the roadway are someone's sister, mother, daughter, father, or brother, and they deserve to go back to their dinner tables safe and sound after a long day of hard work.

Conclusion: Drive smart and be safe

Traffic safety may not be the most exhilarating topic, but it is one of the most important. By following the rules, staying alert, and showing a little courtesy, we can make the roads safer for everyone. Remember, your car isn't a toy and driving is not a game. So, buckle up, slow down, and drive like your life depends on it - because it does. If you must be a daredevil, do it somewhere safe. Like skydiving or bungee jumping. Just not behind the wheel. Safe travels!

Safe Streets for Macomb County

The Macomb County Department of Roads (MCDR) is leading the way in creating and implementing innovative solutions for transportation safety. We regularly get invited to present on our traffic safety program at local, national, and international meetings and conferences. At MCDR, traffic safety is a top priority. We recently secured a federal grant to develop a countywide Comprehensive Transportation Safety Action Plan, known as Safe Streets for Macomb County. This plan features key components such as a comprehensive safety analysis, community engagement and collaboration, and the identification and prioritization of safety strategies and projects.

With community input, this plan will prioritize roadway and infrastructure projects that address safety challenges for county road users and support future funding opportunities for safety projects. Please take a few moments to respond to the transportation safety survey and share your thoughts about safety in Macomb County. Take the transportation safety survey today to provide your input.

County employee uses educational discount benefit, receives bachelor's and master's degrees

Congratulations to Nicole Venegas, office assistant-senior for the Macomb County Circuit Court, who used the county's employee tuition discount program at Central Michigan University and earned two degrees! Nicole received a bachelor's in community development with a concentration in health sciences in December 2021, and in May 2024, she received her master's in public administration. Keep reading to learn more about her achievements, and how you can take advantage of this program too!

What inspired you to pursue these degrees?

Prior to working for Macomb County, I thought I might want to pursue a career in the medical field. When I began working for the county, I found that I really enjoyed helping people in the community and looked for degree programs that corresponded to civil service and government relations.

What was your experience managing work/life/school?

Before my career at Macomb County, I received my associates degree from Macomb Community College. It was often difficult juggling work, home, and school with two children, but I was determined to get my degree. I heard about the tuition discount program through the county and looked at the options to see which would fit best. I chose to meet with Central Michigan University (CMU) and see what they had to offer. I had concerns about work/life/school balance due to my previous experience with college. I was blown away by the number of programs available at CMU's Global Campus. CMU is incredibly accommodating to those who work and want to pursue a degree. In a traditional setting, college is offered in a 16-week semester. CMU operates on a split semester. The fall and spring semesters are divided in half. This consists of two, 8-week semesters instead of one, 16-week semester. This format allows a full-time employee such as myself, to realistically go to school full-time as well. While it was a lot of studying and work, it was an achievable goal.

Would you recommend the tuition discount/program to others at the county? Why?

I would absolutely recommend the tuition discount program to others at the county! As a full-time employee, full-time mother, and part-time caregiver to a family member, I never thought getting my bachelor's degree was an achievable goal. If I were to get my degree in a traditional setting, it would have taken me double the amount of time. CMU has accelerated coursework programs, a wide variety of degree programs available online and in person, and many of the courses allow you to work on your own free time rather than having a set class time. All of this and I could receive a discount through Macomb County?! It was a clear decision, I was going to earn my degrees. I was incredibly surprised at how much I enjoyed my time at CMU. So much so, I stayed and received my master's degree as well.

Is the program process easy to navigate?

The program process is incredibly easy to navigate. I mentioned the discount program when I met with CMU the first time. They were great. They provided me with the documentation that Macomb County and I needed to complete. Then, CMU would verify my employment with Macomb County annually. That's it!

Now, here's how you can benefit from the discount too!

As a member of Automation Alley, employees of Macomb County receive discounts from partnered colleges and universities, including the University of Detroit Mercy (UoDM), Lawrence Tech University (LTU) and Davenport University.

  • UoDM offers a 50% tuition discount on all Business Administration graduate degrees and certificate programs for new students.
  • LTU offers up to $3,000 in tuition grants: $3,000 per semester for full-time undergraduate students, $1,500 per semester for part-time undergraduate students and $250 for each graduate-level course a student takes.
  • Davenport University offers a 20% discount on more than 60 undergraduate and graduate programs at the university through Macomb County's Automation Alley membership. However, as an Education Scholarship partner, county employees can receive up to $7,000 toward tuition for associate, bachelor or graduate degrees, as well.
  • Lastly, Central Michigan University offers Macomb County employees, their spouses and dependents younger than 24 a 15% discount on tuition. This is applicable only to a select bachelor's and master's degree and certificate programs taken online or at satellite campuses/locations.

To learn more about the educational benefits and opportunities listed above, visit https://insidemacomb.macombgov.org/hr-voluntarybenefits.

For your benefit: Open enrollment and Workday

Save the dates! Open enrollment for Macomb County employees will be held Oct. 30 through Nov 15. This is the one time of year to change/update/enroll in your health benefits - including health care, dental, vision and other programs. Stay tuned for more information from HRLR in the coming weeks.

Additionally, Macomb County is excited to share an update with our applicant tracking system, Workday. Effective September 2, HRLR will no longer send daily emails with Macomb County job postings. Job postings will be available to employees through Workday. Employees will have the ability to subscribe and receive emails of job postings as soon as they are posted.

Current job postings are always available at https://www.macombgov.org/departments/human-resources-and-labor-relations/career-opportunities

Please feel free to reach out to Human Resources at [email protected] or (586) 469-5280 if you have any questions or want assistance with the subscription process.

HealthStyles

The HealthStyles employee health fair returned to the Macomb Community College Criminal Justice Training Center on August 7. The event was attended by more than 260 people, and it included lunch, swag bags and access to 37 different Macomb County vendors and departments that contribute to community health and wellness. Breakout sessions highlighted a food demonstration by Health Department employee Amy Ervin, public health educator, chair yoga by James from Maria Marino Fitness Pros, and a mindfulness class by Miloni Rathod, Ph.D representing MSU Extension Services.

HealthStyles would like to thank the volunteers who made the fun event possible and are looking forward to hosting the annual event next year.

Macomb County Office of Senior Services to host volunteer recruitment fair

The Macomb County Office of Senior Services will host a Volunteer Recruitment Fair on Wednesday, September 11 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Robert A. VerKuilen Building located at 21885 Dunham Road in Clinton Township. This free event is part of the nationwide Day of Service and is intended to help pay tribute to, and honor the victims and heroes of 9/11 by promoting year-round volunteerism rather than single-day volunteer engagements.

"The citizens of Macomb County have always stepped-up and embraced opportunities to volunteer and support their fellow citizens in ways that really make a difference in people's lives and the lives of their families," said Sheila Cote, Director of the Macomb County Office of Senior Services. "Everyone is welcome to attend - especially anyone who is considering being a volunteer and looking for something that fits their interests and availability. There will be something for everyone."

Organizations that are seeking volunteers to support their efforts can register online at macombgov.org/departments/senior-services/volunteer-recruitment-fair, by calling 586-783-0958, or emailing [email protected].

National Association of Counties recognizes Macomb

Earlier this summer, Macomb County received several accolades from the National Association of Counties (NACo).

In June, it was announced that the county was a recipient of four Achievement Awards for 2024. The annual awards program, now in its 54th year, recognizes innovative and effective county government initiatives that strengthen services for residents. Awards are given in 18 different categories, including children and youth, criminal justice, county administration, information technology, health and civic engagement.

"To have our teams recognized on a national level speaks volumes about the quality of services and programs we provide residents," said County Executive Mark Hackel. "Macomb County employees work tirelessly to make our community a great place to live, work and play, and I'm thrilled that these teams are receiving these honors for their efforts."

Macomb County departments and offices receiving awards include Planning and Economic Development, Human Resources and Labor Relations, Information Technology and the Board of Commissioners. The following work was highlighted:

  • New Macomb County Website - Planning and Economic Development/IT
  • More Than A Job hiring campaign - Planning and Economic Development/HR
  • Yoga at the Hill - Board of Commissioners
  • Mount Clemens/Macomb County economic development partnership - Planning and Economic Development

In July, Macomb received additional news from NACo - the county was named sixth in the nation for best technology practices. The honor was bestowed by the Center for Digital Government (CDG) and NACo, which had released the results of the 22nd Annual Digital Counties Survey. The survey identifies the best technology practices among U.S. counties, including initiatives that streamline delivery of government services; provide data analytics to allow decisions based on performance and outcomes; enhance cybersecurity; and apply innovative and emerging technologies to county priorities.

"This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment of the Macomb County IT team, the leadership provided by the Office of the County Executive, and the collaboration with county's Planning & Economic Development team, as well as the various county Departments in Macomb County who make it their mission to serve our constituents through innovative, digital means," said Jako van Blerk, CIO, Macomb County. "It makes Macomb County a better place to live, work, and thrive."

Macomb County was listed in sixth place in the 500,000-999,999 population category. Other winners in this category include:

1st Jefferson County, CO

2nd Snohomish County, WA

3rd New Castle County, DE

3rd Westchester County, NY

4th DeKalb County, GA

5th Cobb County, GA

6th Macomb County, MI

7th County of San Mateo, CA

8th Polk County, FL

9th County of Ventura, CA

10th County of Chester, PA

On behalf of the Macomb Matters team, congratulations to all those recognized!

Providing support by keeping it casual

The Board of Commissioners has announced the continuation of the Macomb County Casual Day Charitable Collections Program. Participating employees (with department leader permission) may wear casual clothing to work on Fridays (or other designated day), if they donate at least a dollar. Participating departments will be monitored, and donations are sent in a timely fashion. Collected donations are then sent by the Board Office to the assigned charities.

Earlier this year, the BOC announced the full list of programs it will support in 2024. Stay tuned for additional announcements on the topic, and in the meantime, if you are able, please participate in the upcoming Casual Days that will help:

Maggie's Wigs 4 Kids of Michigan

September 6, 13, 20, 27
Provides wigs & support services to children ages 3 to 18 at no charge throughout the state of Michigan.

SKIP

October 4, 11, 18, 25
Delivers gift bags to local hospitals and schools with low income housing around the state of Michigan.

IT download

A message from Jako van Blerk: Some emerging trends in IT and their impact

As we navigate through 2024, the landscape of information technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Let's explore some of the most exciting emerging trends in IT and how they are set to impact our lives moving forward.

  1. Artificial intelligence and machine learning
    AI and ML are no longer just buzzwords; they are transforming industries across the board. From healthcare to finance, AI-driven solutions are enhancing decision-making, automating routine tasks, and providing personalized experiences. As these technologies mature, we can expect even more sophisticated applications, such as predictive analytics and advanced natural language processing, to become mainstream. We're already using some of this technology in Macomb County in Cyber Security and some of the newer SaaS applications. It will continue to grow exponentially as decision making becomes more data driven.
  2. Quantum computing
    Quantum computing is on the brink of revolutionizing how we solve complex problems. With its ability to process information at unprecedented speeds, quantum computing holds the promise of breakthroughs in fields like cryptography, drug discovery, AI, etc. by solving complex problems at lightning speeds. While still in its early stages, the potential impact of quantum computing on industries and research is immense. It will be transformational.
  3. Edge computing
    This technology brings computation and data storage closer to the source of data generation, to reduce latency and bandwidth usage. High speed bandwidth is expensive; however, Edge computing can address this. As an example, accessing a large database over a WAN connection creates latency to the point where it might not be very productive for large queries, however if this processing takes place local to the database location, it will remove that issue to allow for a much better user experience. This trend is particularly significant for the County to address a more dispersed infrastructure architecture, meaning on-prem, cloud, and other that's located nationwide.
  4. 5G networks
    The rollout of 5G networks is set to revolutionize connectivity with faster speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity. It enables new applications in areas such as augmented reality, remote surgery, and smart manufacturing. This is already in use by mobile & IoT devices at Macomb County. The industry is already immersed in standing up 6G technology - even better bandwidth with less latency!

These emerging trends are set to reshape the IT landscape, offering both opportunities and challenges. Businesses that embrace these technologies will gain a competitive edge, improve efficiency, and deliver innovative products and services. For individuals, these advancements promise enhanced convenience, improved healthcare, and new career opportunities in tech-driven fields.

Recipe corner: Pesto

Serving size: 1/4 cup

Servings per container: 5

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cups firmly packed fresh basil or spinach leaves (see notes)
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts or pine nuts (see notes)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions Wash hands and all food preparation surfaces.

  1. Place all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Pulse until all is mixed. Use a spoon or rubber scraper to clean the edges of the container between pulses. If needed, add 1 or 2 Tablespoons of water to make the thickness you want.
  2. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours. Use within 3 days or freeze for long term storage.


Notes

  • Use spinach instead of basil for a milder flavor. You can make pesto with a combination of most any leafy green, including carrot tops and parsley.
  • For more flavor, toast the nuts before adding. Place nuts in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir often until they turn a light brown and remove from heat to cool.

Download a PDF version

Food Hero, Oregon State University Extension, foodhero.org

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Events

Senior Fun Festival

Thursday, September 19; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Macomb Community College, Lorenzo Cultural Center

Register here

Macomb County Animal Control Free Pet Vaccine Clinic

Saturday, September 21; 10 a.m. -2 p.m.
Robert A. Verkuilen Building. 21855 Dunham Road Clinton Township 48036

Registration is not required, but is recommended to save time the day of the event.
Register here

Department:Human Resources
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