- Message from Mark
- Employee news and accolades
- Employee focus
- Retiree spotlight
- Celebrating employee milestones
- In memoriam
- Macomb County to host fourth annual Health and Wellness Fair this September
- Update: Selfridge Mission Next
- MSU-E corner
- HealthStyles
- Over 106,000 pounds of food collected by Community Food Bank of Macomb County
- Macomb County Office of Senior Services to host 35th annual Senior Fun Festival
- IT download
- Paw print
- News nook
- Blog log
- Events
Message from Mark
Hello and welcome to this month’s edition of Macomb Matters.
Summer is winding down and fall is on the horizon. School days, holidays and autumn festivities are just around the corner. But before we turn the page to a new season, there’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy. Whether it’s dining on the water, kayaking the Clinton River, or exploring Macomb County trails or enjoying our many outdoor amenities, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy Don’t miss out on a summer concert at Freedom Hill or one of the many music in the park events put on by our local municipalities. You could also catch a United Shores Professional Baseball League game at the newly named UWM Field.
In August alone, we’ve had the opportunity to attend many events across Macomb County. The Macomb County Sheriff’s Office hosted the 2026 National Night Out event at Freedom Hill, where residents and public safety professionals alike showed up and showed out for a night of family-friendly fun.
The Great Lakes Policy Conference brought together business leaders, environmental experts, industry innovators and economic development professionals to discuss the wonderful freshwater resource that is our Great Lakes and the opportunities it presents to our region.
The 23rd annual Maggie’s Wigs 4 Kids Gala acted as a reminder of the generosity and care given by our community to those experiencing hair loss due to cancer and other disorders. The event hosted many wig ambassadors, community leaders, volunteers, businesses and friends who all support the cause.
I was also able to attend celebrations for our Macomb County centenarians. Congratulations to Kathleen Jean Tiano, Lorraine Pierce,and Patricia Pleva for reaching such an incredible milestone. If you know any other ‘centenarians’, please reach out to Macomb County Office of Senior Services at 586-469-5228 or email seniors@macombgov.org.
In closing, I want to thank everyone for all that you do to make Macomb County a great place to live, work and explore. Enjoy the last few weeks of summer and see you all in the next Macomb Matters issue.
Thank you and take care,
Mark Hackel
Employee news and accolades
Elder Justice Alliance in the news
The Macomb County Elder Justice Alliance has recently been highlighted by WXYZ Channel 7 for their involvement in preventing the eviction of 90-year-old Nancy Fahringer.
Nancy’s story is a familiar one, consisting of a social media scam that nearly lost her $7,000. Nancy was experiencing loneliness after the loss of her husband. She was exploited by an online predator in a “romance scam”. On the verge of eviction, Nancy’s family reached out to the Macomb County Elder Justice Alliance.
Established in 2023, the alliance is a collaboration between community members, law enforcement, protective services, legal aid and other agencies, coordinated by the Macomb County Office of Senior Services, with the goal of ending elder abuse, fraud, exploitation and neglect through education, collaboration and advocacy for victims and those at risk.
The work of this advocacy group cannot be overstated. According to the Elder Justice Roadmap, 10% of U.S. adults over 60-years-old experience some form of abuse annually, and only 1 in 24 elder abuse cases ever get reported.
For resources on how to spot and prevent abuse, as well as support information and training, visit the Elder Justice Alliance website. If you suspect any type of abuse, including neglect or exploitation, please call Adult Protective Services on the 24-hour line, 855-444-3911
Macomb County named one of America’s Top Digital Governments
Macomb County has been recognized as one of the nation's leading technology-driven local governments, earning 4th place nationally in the 2026 Digital Counties Survey for counties with populations between 500,000 and 999,999 residents. The ranking also makes Macomb County the highest-ranked county in Michigan.
The annual survey, conducted by the Center for Digital Government in partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo), recognizes counties that use technology to improve government services, strengthen cybersecurity, increase efficiency and better serve residents.
The recognition highlights Macomb County’s continued investment in digital services, cybersecurity, cloud technology, website accessibility, artificial intelligence and enterprise-wide technology initiatives that improve services for residents and businesses.
Macomb County received the award during the National Association of Counties Annual Conference in New Orleans on July 17. The Digital Counties Survey recognizes the nation’s highest-performing counties for their excellence in technology innovation, cybersecurity, digital transformation and the delivery of public services.
The 2026 top-ten rankings for counties in the same population category include:
- 1st – Prince William County, VA
- 2nd – Westchester County, NY
- 3rd – Utah County, UT
- 4th – Macomb County, MI.; 4th – Polk County, FL
- 5th – Snohomish County, WA
- 6th – City of Indianapolis-Marion County, IN
- 7th – Cobb County, GA.; 7th – New Castle County, DE.
- 8th County of Ventura, CA
- 9th – DeKalb County, GA
- 10th – County of DuPage, IL
Employee focus
Crystal Jordan
Congratulations to Crystal Jordan, Fiscal Services Manager forthe Macomb County Finance Department, for being a recipient of the Clark Burrus Public Service Academic Scholarship, facilitated by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA).
Along with the award, the below Q&A was carried out by GFOA:
Where and what are you currently studying, and why did you choose this?
I am currently pursuing a master of business administration (MBA) at Walsh College in Troy, MI. I chose this program to help expand my understanding of leadership, financial management, and strategic decision-making within organizations. My studies allow me to connect academic theories and concepts with my professional experience in government finance, specifically in the areas of budgeting, planning and fiscal operations. I am particularly interested in how data-driven decision-making and financial analysis can improve efficiency and accountability in the public sector. This degree is helping me build the technical and leadership skills necessary to make a more meaningful impact in the public sector as financial services professional.
What government are you working in or hope to work at in the future?
I currently work in local government with Macomb County, Michigan, where I serve as a budget fiscal services manager. I have developed a deeper appreciation for government finance through direct involvement in budgeting and financial planning. In the future, I plan to continue growing within government finance, with the hopes of advancing into more senior leadership roles, where I can contribute to policy development and financial strategy that promotes transparency, public trust and unbiassed resource allocation. I am particularly interested in staying within the local government area, where financial decisions have a direct impact on communities similar to the ones I grew up in. As I continue to serve my local municipalities, one of my primary goals is to be an example of integrity, ethical stewardship, and accountability in public service.
What are your future career goals?
My future career goals include advancing into executive leadership within government finance, where I can influence financial strategy, policy, and long-term planning. I aspire to serve in roles such deputy finance director or finance director where I can assist with leading the Finance Department to financial success and ethical stewardship while possibly spearheading initiatives that strengthen fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency. Beyond my government role, I am personally committed to expanding financial literacy through nonprofit initiatives, aiming to bridge the gap between financial knowledge and access by providing education, tools, and resources that empower individuals and communities to make informed financial decisions.
Crystal currently oversees budgeting, financial planning and fiscal operations within the County, bringing passion, empathy and dedication to the workplace. For more about her outstanding achievement, read Crystal's full Q&A on the GFOA websites.
Jake Slucksin
As the County continues to highlight the many people in our workforce, the Macomb Matters team is happy to feature Jake Slucksin, Engineering Aide for Macomb County Department of Roads. Keep reading to see what he has to say about his job and life outside of work!
How long have you been with the County?
I have been with the county for three years.
What is your current position and what do you?
My current position is EA2 and I have been inspecting and overseeing the HMA PPP projects.
What have you found most rewarding about your career with Macomb County?
What I think is most rewarding about my career here is repairing the roads and helping maintain public safety.
Briefly tell us about your family (pets count too!).
I have four sisters and one little brother we like to do outside activities together.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work I like to enjoy my free time by spending time with my girlfriend, family, and friends. I also like to snowboard during the wintertime.
Briefly describe something you are passionate about, or a philosophy you embrace, or a topic that matters greatly to you, etc. (your choice).
I am very passionate about work it may be tough at times to get jobs done but it’s worth it to see the transformation and keeping the public safe I like to take pride in the work I do.
Retiree spotlight
The Macomb Matters team would like to congratulate these employees' recent retirements. Thank you for your years of service, hard work and dedication to the county and its residents!
Congratulations to all Macomb County employees who recently retired. Thank you for your service. We wish you the best in your next chapter.
Macomb County's most recent list of retirees for May June and July
Celebrating employee milestones
Congratulations to all Macomb County employees who recently reached significant employment milestones.
Macomb County's most recent list of milestones!!!
In memoriam
Marianne Moons-Boddington
Marianne worked in the program for Maternal Child Health. Prior to that, she held one other position during her 39-year run at the Health Department, working as an office assistant in the dental clinic.
She will always be remembered for the positivity and genuine care she brought to everyone around her. Her kindness came naturally, and her presence had a way of making people feel supported, uplifted and appreciated.
Those who knew her will always carry her in their hearts, smiling at the memory of the wonderful person she was. One story that continues to bring joy is her love for chocolate cake with chocolate frosting — a delightful indulgence from someone who otherwise lived so healthily. That simple contrast captured a bit of her charm and warmth.
She also had a deep love for poodles and for her family. Her affection for them was evident in the way she spoke about them and in the light that appeared in her eyes whenever they came up in conversation.
She will be missed in countless ways, and her legacy of warmth, positivity, and love will continue to live on in everyone she touched.
Pamela Robb
Pam started with Macomb County and Head Start in September 2007 as a part-time teacher aide. In 2015 Pam was promoted to a full-time teacher where we she built a reputation of caring deeply about children, supporting families and showing up for her colleagues.
Ed Scott, director of Macomb Community Action, shared, “For almost two decades, Pam devoted herself to the children and families of Macomb County through our Head Start program. She was someone who believed in our work and spent nearly two decades making a difference, one child and one family at a time."
Here is a link to Pam's obituary information. Please keep our Head Start family and Pam's family in your thoughts and prayers as they walk through this difficult and unexpected loss.
Macomb County to host fourth annual Health and Wellness Fair this September
Macomb County will welcome residents, families, and community partners to the Fourth Annual Health and Wellness Fair on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Macomb Intermediate School District (MISD) located at 44001 Garfield Rd. in Clinton Township. All are welcome to attend this free event.
Attendees can enjoy a wide variety of free activities and services, including health screenings, wellness resources, educational sessions, food, and family-friendly entertainment. In addition, all attendees will also receive a Wellness Resource Guide to help them stay connected to services and support long after the event.
Come out, bring your family and friends, and enjoy a welcoming, supportive environment dedicated to wellness in Macomb County. For more information, visit the event page, or call the Macomb County Community Mental Health Customer Service Line at 855-99-MCCMH (855-996-2264).
Update: Selfridge Mission Next
Selfridge Mission Next is working to transform the Selfridge Air National Guard Base. The base is being modernized to welcome the next generation of Air Force aircraft (F-15EX fighter and KC-46A) and the missions they carry. The modernization of Selfridge is one of the largest infrastructure investments in Macomb County's recent history. With the Governor signing a bipartisan bill to fund upgraded runways, Macomb County is taking the necessary steps toward an improved military base.
As preparation continues, Selfridge Industry Days have kicked off to spread the word to local companies looking to play a role in supporting the future mission at Selfridge. Seeing significant interest in both the “Infrastructure Day” and “Roads and Drains Day”, shows that this mission is supported by many.
On August 17, the Rosso highway relocation project broke ground, kickstarting the joint effort to relocate drains and construct new roads for Selfridge’s runway extension. While progress continues to be made during this new chapter, look forward to future updates and information at the Selfridge Mission Next Website. The next 100 years of Selfridge start now.
MSU-E corner
On-demand classes to fit your busy schedule
We know life gets busy. As summer winds down and children head back to school, finding time for personal and professional development can be a challenge. That's why MSU Extension offers a growing library of on-demand classes that allow you to learn at your own pace, whenever it's convenient for you. From health and wellness to financial education, gardening, parenting, and more, there's something for everyone, and new classes are added regularly.
If you're looking for an opportunity to focus on your health and well-being this Fall, consider joining our upcoming Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention class. Open to employees and community members alike, this gentle program is designed to improve balance, flexibility, and overall wellness. No prior experience is needed, and a seated Tai Chi form will also be available.
The class will be held in the MSU Extension Assembly Rooms at the VerKuilen Building (Entrance E) from Noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays, beginning September 29 and continuing through December 22.
Whether you prefer the flexibility of online learning or the connection of an in-person class, MSU Extension has resources to support your personal and professional well-being. To explore our current catalog of on-demand classes, visit MSU Extension Macomb County. To register for the Tai Chi class, visit Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention Registration.
At MSU Extension, we're here for you and your well-being. We encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities to learn, grow, and invest in your health.
See you soon!
HealthStyles
Employee Health Fair
This August, the Department of Human Resources and Labor Relations (HRLR) hosted about 350 guests at the Verkuilen Building for the annual Macomb County Employee Health Fair. Local vendors from across the County set up tables to promote physical and mental health resources. Some of these vendors included, community gyms and exercise support, pharmacies and health centers, benefit partners, mental health assistance, and Macomb County departments and initiatives. The event was capped off with an assorted lunch.
Thank you to everyone who showed up to make the event possible.
Over 106,000 pounds of food collected by Community Food Bank of Macomb County
Recently, the Community Food Bank of Macomb County announced that 106,541 pounds of non-perishable food was collected by local letter carriers and volunteers in support of the 34th annual Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. This event stems from the knowledge that food banks and pantries frequently experience depleted shelves as summer approaches and school meal programs end. Which is why the annual postal drive has become a vital resource for bridging the gap into the summer months.
Collecting over 106,000 pounds of food is no small feat. Without the collaboration of volunteers, community organizations and letter carries, none of it would be possible. The food collected through this drive supports families in need during unprecedented times while school is out of session. All the donations that were collected in Macomb County, will be distributed right back into Macomb County. This initiative may play a significant role in helping keep pantry shelves stocked during the summer months, but the need doesn’t end there. Supporting local food banks is needed and important year-round.
For ways to help, visit the Community Food Bank website.
Macomb County Office of Senior Services to host 35th annual Senior Fun Festival
The Macomb County Office of Senior Services will host its 35th annual Senior Fun Festival on Thursday, September 24 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.at the Lorenzo Cultural Center located at 44575 Garfield Road in Clinton Township. Admission to the Senior Fun Festival is free.
Recognized as Macomb County’s largest senior expo, the Senior Fun Festival is intended to serve as an opportunity for seniors and caregivers to learn about services and community resources to help enrich their lives. In addition to services and community resources for seniors and caregivers, the event will also feature raffles, entertainment, refreshments and snacks. Heiritage Law is the presenting sponsor of the 2026 Senior Fun Festival
More information on the Senior Fun Festival can be found here.
IT download: A message from Jako van Blerk
Zscaler: Securing Our Network
As county employees, we rely on technology every day—whether we’re accessing records, supporting residents, or working with colleagues across departments. One tool quietly protecting us behind the scenes is Zscaler, which is installed on all county workstations.
Zscaler works like an always on security checkpoint. Whenever you connect to a website or online service, it quickly checks where you’re going, makes sure the connection is safe, and blocks anything suspicious. This all happens automatically, no matter where you are—at the office, at home, or traveling between facilities. The result is safer browsing and peace of mind knowing your work is protected.
Zscaler is constantly watching for cyber threats. It blocks unsafe sites, stops attempts to steal information, and shields sensitive county data. In the last quarter alone, Zscaler blocked more than 642,000 online threats before they could reach employees, devices, or our network.
It also stopped a real phishing attack targeting staff. The attacker created a fake Microsoft login page designed to trick employees into entering their credentials. Zscaler immediately recognized the warning signs and blocked the page before anyone could be affected.
As we continue improving and modernizing our technology systems, your awareness and safe online habits play an important part in our overall security. Tools like Zscaler help us stay protected, work more efficiently, and ensure our services remain reliable for the employees and residents who depend on them.
Paw prints
Back to school: Is your pet ready?
As backpacks come out and school routines return, your pets may notice that the house is suddenly a lot quieter. Dogs and cats can experience stress or anxiety when their daily routine changes, so a little preparation can help make the transition easier.
Try these simple tips:
- Ease into the new routine. Gradually adjust feeding, walks and playtime before school starts.
- Keep them busy. Provide toys, puzzles or a safe treat to help keep pets occupied while the family is away.
- Give them attention. Make time for exercise, play and cuddles before and after school.
- Watch for signs of stress. Changes in appetite, excessive barking, destructive behavior or accidents can signal that your pet is having a tough time adjusting.
- Make departures and arrivals calm. A relaxed routine can help prevent separation anxiety.
Most importantly, remember that your pet may need some extra patience and reassurance as everyone settles into the new school-year schedule. A little extra love can go a long way in helping our four-legged family members adjust!
And if you have any questions, you can always call Macomb County Animal Control at 586-469-5115. We are here to help!
News nook
- New ranking of Michigan's public high schools released by U.S. News
- Nearly $15 Million in Improvements Coming to Lake St. Clair Metropark
- Lake St. Clair drives $2.2 billion economic impact as Macomb County eyes more shoreline development
- General Dynamics marks upgrade of Sterling Heights headquarters
- Officials break ground on Rosso highway relocation project
Blog log
Events
Volunteer Recruitment Fair
September 11 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Macomb Mall; Entrance 2 and/or 3
32233 Gratiot Ave. Roseville, MI 48066
Health and Wellness Fair
September 12, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Macomb Intermediate School District (MISD)
44001 Garfield Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48036
Woofstock
September 19 at noon
Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill
14900 Metro Pkwy, Sterling Heights, MI 48312
Sprint and Splash
September 20 at 9 a.m.
Brandenburg Park
50050 Jefferson Ave, Chesterfield Township, MI 48047
Senior Fun Festival
September 24 at 10 a.m.
Lorenzo Cultural Center
44575 Garfield Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038
For more events, visit MMYH Events FB
