Macomb Matters - September 2025 Issue 100

Message from Mark
Employee News and Accolades
Celebrating employee milestones
Employee Focus
Retiree spotlight
Embracing the golden years
Volunteer recruitment fair
A message from Andy McKinnon
HealthStyles
Providing support by keeping it casual
New lunch options in downtown Mount Clemens
Pawprint
Recipe Corner
News Nook
Blog Log
Events

Message from Mark

I’m thrilled to welcome you to the 100th edition of the Macomb Matters newsletter! This communication is designed to keep you, our hard-working employees, informed and up-to-date on all the latest happenings in our workplace and across the county. Just as importantly, it serves as a way to celebrate you. From awards to retirements, from new babies to major milestones, we’ve highlighted just about everything throughout these pages.

Today, I’d like to celebrate the team behind this content, who make this possible. With that said, I hope you’ll join me in giving a round of applause to our editorial team, which consists of folks from HRLR, Planning and Economic Development, IT and my office. Thank you for all you do to make Macomb Matters great.

And now, we’ve officially reached September, which means fall fun is just around the corner. From apple orchards to scenic trails to spooky destinations, Macomb County offers all kinds of seasonal activities. I encourage all of you to get out and experience all this county has to offer because you truly are what makes this place so special. Make sure to visit makemacombyourhome.com to find ideas and inspiration for the weeks and months ahead. And as always, the Make Macomb Your Home Events Facebook page is a great account to follow so you can stay in the know.

Thanks and take care,

Mark

Employee news and accolades

Roads Department recognized with major award

At the 2025 ITE Great Lakes District and WTS Central Region Annual Meeting in Indianapolis earlier this month, ITE GLD President Michael Siffer congratulated the winners of the 2025 ITE GLD Transportation Achievement Awards. In the TSMO category, this year's winning project was "An Investment into Next-Generation Traffic Operations" by the Macomb County Department of Roads and AECOM. The award was accepted by John K. Abraham from Macomb County DOR and Santosh Miraskar, MS, PE, PTOE from AECOM.

John shared: “Honored and grateful to receive the 2025 TSMO Transportation Achievement Award! This recognition reflects the hard work, collaboration, and dedication of an incredible team at Macomb County Department of Roads. Thank you to ITE Great Lakes District for this honor—it inspires us to keep pushing boundaries and making a difference every day.”

Congratulations to the entire team at the Roads Department!

Chakira Calcote celebrates graduation

Congratulations to Chakira Calcote, custodian foreman, on achieving a major milestone—graduating from Walsh College with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Management, Magna Cum Laude this past June!

Chakira is continuing her educational journey and has been accepted to Central Michigan University (CMU) for 2026, where she will pursue a Master of Arts in Education – Training and Development.

Through the Macomb County partnership with CMU, Chakira will also benefit from a 15% tuition savings. Please join us in celebrating Chakira’s outstanding accomplishments and commitment to lifelong learning!

Thank you to the Macomb County summer interns

As the summer winds down and school is back in session, the departments at Macomb County wish to thank each and every intern who spent the last three months learning about and assisting with County projects and initiatives.

Over five different departments hosted interns this summer, including the Department of Roads, the Public Defenders Office, Planning and Economic Development (PED) and more.

Celebrating employee milestones

Congratulations to all Macomb County employees who recently reached significant employment milestones.

August

September

Employee focus: Stacey McFarlane

In a world increasingly affected by environmental challenges, the role of environmental health professionals has never been more critical. These unsung heroes work behind the scenes to address the complex relationship between the environment and human well-being. From helping make sure we have access to clean water to collecting hazardous waste to investigating potential environmental threats, their expertise helps safeguard Macomb County against environmental hazards.

Here in Macomb County, we are fortunate to have Stacey McFarlane, Public Health Services Manager on staff at the Macomb County Health Department where she and her staff are on the front lines to help ensure everyone in Macomb County has access to a safe, clean environment.

Q: When did you first join Macomb County and how did you find your job?
A: I first joined Macomb County in 1991 as a page at the county library. My best friend worked there and let me know there was an opening. It was the best job as a student. I loved my co-workers, and it really helped me with my customer service skills. Residents can get a little upset when they have to pay a fine for late books. It was a very supportive and team driven atmosphere. I was sad when it was time for me to move on from that job. A few years later while taking some graduate classes in Hazardous Waste Management at Wayne State University, I learned of several openings for Environmentalists at the Health Department in their newly formed Surface Water Improvement and Monitoring (SWIM) Team program focusing on water quality. This lined up with my undergrad degree in environmental science, so I applied for the position. I never thought of the health department as a place where my degree would be a good “fit”. I did not get a SWIM position but did get hired to be an Environmentalist in the food program inspecting restaurants. I was very excited to work for the county again and was confident that I would have the opportunity to move over to SWIM program.

Q: What does your current role entail?
A: My current role as Public Health Services Manager entails oversight of the Surface Water Improvement and Monitoring (SWIM) Team, Environmental Management and Risk Assessment Program (EMRAP), Body Art, and Point-of-Sale (POS) programs in the Environmental Health Services Division of the Health Department. These programs include beach monitoring, surface water monitoring, complaint investigations for sewage and other pollutants, stormwater permit activities, illicit discharge elimination program activities, property transfer evaluations and authorizations for the sale of properties with wells and/or septic systems, household hazardous waste collections, radon, lead investigations, inspections of body art facilities, and indoor air quality.

Q: What is one aspect of your job others would find surprising?
A: I would say the amount of knowledge my staff and I must have to do our jobs, help county residents and to be able respond to complaints. If we are not an expert on a topic, we often must quickly gain the knowledge to aid residents needing information or find the department they actually need (and sometimes both). Often, residents have already been referred to multiple departments and end up with Environmental Health because no one else knows where to send them. I strive to provide the information they need, even if we are not the department or entity they need. I have become good at Google searches and finding the right resources. Some examples of “on the job learning” I have experienced includes various local code enforcement issues such as standing water (puddles) or naturally occurring phenomenon that gets mistaken for pollution (bacteria creating what looks like an oil sheen), goose and gull management, what to do if you have bedbugs, and renters' rights. Given the wide variety questions we receive, I have occasionally thought someone was pulling a practical joke on me from the some of the questions and comments I have received over the years.

Q: What is your favorite aspect of your job?
A: This is a hard question to answer since there are many things I love about my job. Collaborating with other departments and agencies is one of my favorite aspects of the job. I am able to be part of several committees and groups focused on water quality and protecting the Clinton River. Protecting the Clinton River is why I studied Environmental Science in college and fueled my desire to be part of the SWIM Team at MCHD. These committees allow me to collaborate with organizations like the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA), Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA), the Clinton River Watershed Council, the surrounding counties, and state departments like Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). I currently serve as the vice chair for the Clinton River Public Advisory Committee (PAC) and get to work with these organizations as we work on delisting the Clinton River as an area of concern (AOC). I also continue to build stronger relationships with our municipalities and work in tandem with them, as well as the Macomb County Departments of Public Works and Roads on complaints and pollution investigations. There is always a sense of accomplishment when a pollution source is located and fixed. I love knowing we are making a difference and protecting our community.

I also love that no day is the same and always continue to get to learn. I can have my day all planned out but one phone call can quickly derail my plans to handle a complaint or an emergency. Most emergencies though seem to be called in at 4 p.m. on a Friday.

Q: What are some of the things you enjoy outside work?
A: I enjoy reading, gardening, hiking and getting together with friends and family. When time permits, I love to travel in the U.S., Canada and abroad. I have been fortunate enough to visit 34 states (including Hawaii and Alaska), so far and am planning future trips. My husband and I prefer to camp and usually get in a couple camping trips each year. This year is an exception since we took a 19-day trip to Scotland this summer. This was our second trip there and we are already planning our third. As many of my coworkers know, I take (almost) yearly trips to Walt Disney World, especially since my daughter is attending college in Florida; this might be one reason why she picked her college. My son attended college in Houghton and now lives in northern Wisconsin. This has given my husband and I more of an excuse to travel to and explore the UP and Wisconsin. We are now Yooper rock hunters! I also have started to get into birding. It is a great motivator to get outside in my own backyard (where I saw a bald eagle earlier this year) and to explore local parks. I was fortunate enough to visit a puffin colony in Scotland and is one of the highlights for me from this year.

I also enjoy volunteering with the Clinton River Watershed Council (CRWC). I have been volunteering with CRWC since I was in high school doing river cleanups. My husband and I participate in their Adopt-a-Stream program where we monitor a stream in the watershed and collect aquatic insects. My children started volunteering with the organization when they were little and still volunteer when they are around. I have been serving on CRWC’s board of directors for nine years and now have the honor of serving as the board president. I love and appreciate everything this organization does for our community!

Retiree spotlight

Congratulations to all Macomb County employees who recently retired. Thank you for your service. We wish you the best in your next chapter.

Click here for the most recent list of retirees.

Embracing the golden years - How Macomb County is supporting its aging population

Article by Sheila Cote, director, Office of Senior Services

Macomb County is experiencing a powerful demographic shift. With 25% of residents now aged 60 and older, 39% over 50, and 51% over 40 - the community is entering what could be described as a golden era - an era where longevity is rising, and older adults are not only living longer but are more active and capable than ever before. As this population continues to grow, the importance of developing comprehensive services and supports that promote healthy aging has never been greater.

At the heart of this effort is the Macomb County Office of Senior Services. Since becoming a standalone department, the Office has expanded its outreach and programming, helping thousands of older adults live independently with dignity. The mission is simple but powerful: help residents age in place. For many older adults, maintaining independence doesn’t require major intervention—often, a little help with shopping, cleaning, home repairs, or social engagement can make all the difference.

The Office of Senior Services is working hard to make that possible. Programs are designed to help older adults remain in their homes with the dignity and support they deserve. A wide range of programs meets these needs:

Meals on Wheels: Delivers ready-to-eat meals to homebound seniors Monday through Friday, along with a daily wellness check-in.

Dining Senior Style: Provides older adults the chance to enjoy lunch together at 22 locations throughout Macomb County, fostering both nutrition and social connection.

Goldenberry Adult Day Caring Center: Daytime support and engagement for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Handy Helper & Safe at Home: Provides household maintenance services, including faucet repairs, replacing lightbulbs, pest control, and seasonal yard cleanup, as well as safety installations like grab bars, smoke alarms, and handrails.

Friendly Caller Program: Offers emotional support and regular check-ins, while Case Management and Community Liaison services help seniors navigate the complex web of aging-related resources.

Older adults are essential—not optional

Older adults are a tremendous asset to the community, and Macomb County recognizes the value they bring. The Office of Senior Services benefits from over 800 volunteers, the majority of whom are retirees. These individuals serve as the backbone of many essential programs – from delivering meals on 84 routes across the county to assisting with events and outreach. Notably, older adults also make up a significant share of the staff - bringing invaluable experience, wisdom, and community ties to their roles. The county is clear: embracing older adults as employees, volunteers, and participants not only combats ageism – it enriches every corner of community life.

Combating ageism is crucial to unlocking the full potential of this growing demographic. Viewing older adults not as burdens, but as contributors—through volunteerism, employment, and civic engagement strengthens the entire community. When older adults are included, respected, and empowered, the benefits ripple across generations.

Taking action against elder abuse

Unfortunately, not all older adults are able to enjoy their later years in peace. Elder abuse is a growing concern nationwide, and Macomb County has taken bold steps to confront it head-on. In March 2023, the Office of Senior Services launched the Elder Justice Alliance of Macomb. This countywide collaboration includes the Sheriff’s Office, Adult Protective Services, Prosecutor’s Office, legal aid, healthcare providers, senior centers, and more. Their shared mission is to end elder abuse through education, prevention, and response.

Older adults are especially vulnerable to exploitation due to factors like loneliness, isolation, cognitive decline, and limited familiarity with technology. Troublingly, more than 60% of perpetrators are family members, caregivers, or trusted acquaintances. And while abuse is widespread, it often goes unreported—only 1 in 24 cases makes it to the authorities. Victims may feel too ashamed, fear retaliation, or simply not know who to call for help.

To counter this, the Elder Justice Alliance provides tips for recognizing and avoiding abuse and scams:

Never share personal information over the phone—say you’ll call back and consult a trusted friend.
Be alert to warning signs: unexplained bruises, poor hygiene, missed medications, withdrawal, unpaid bills, or sudden bank withdrawals.
Watch for mood changes or depression—both red flags for potential mistreatment.

We all benefit from an age-inclusive community

With over half of Macomb County aged 40 or older, the future is clear: embracing older adults is not only the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing. Their presence, participation, and perspective enrich our neighborhoods, our workforce, and our culture.

Want to learn more or get involved? Call 586‑469‑5228 or visit macombgov.org/seniors

Volunteer recruitment fair

As part of the nationwide Day of Service, Macomb County Office of Senior Services will be hosting a Volunteer Recruitment Fair on Thursday, September 11 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Robert A. VerKuilen Building. The free event helps pay tribute to and honors the victims and heroes of 9/11 by promoting year-round volunteerism rather than single-day volunteer engagements.

“The citizens and employees 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.”

Those interested in volunteer work are encouraged to attend.

To learn more about OSS events and services, visit their website.

A message from Andy McKinnon: Slow down

Several issues ago, I shared that I’d used an AI program to draft an article. At the time, I marveled at how eerily it sounded like me, and how much more efficient it made starting a communication. But as the technology becomes more sophisticated, I find myself wondering: am I prompting it, or is it prompting me?

Over the Labor Day holiday, I took my annual trip to Michigan’s most beautiful peninsula—the U.P. My fellow trolls (those of us below the bridge) may disagree, but there’s a strong argument to be made that it’s far and away more picturesque than our mitten.

While there, we tackled a 10-mile hike along the top of Pictured Rocks. It was my first time doing it, and it’s a bucket-list experience if you love the outdoors: five hours of beaches, vistas, fresh air, and yes—some of the most odoriferous emanations you’ll ever encounter. Get there early enough and you’ll even find solitude.

But somewhere along the way, I caught myself checking the clock. How much longer did we have? What work was piling up back home? What’s for dinner? And—let’s be honest—it’s the U.P., isn’t it time for a drink? In that moment I felt ashamed. Here I was, immersed in one of the most spectacular natural experiences I’ve ever had, and I was already rushing to the next thing. Literally, as I was hiking, I told myself out loud: “Slow down.” And so I did. I walked slower. I stopped longer to take in the views. I just looked around more.

What does this have to do with AI? On the way home, I thought I’d title this article Slow Down. Then, almost on cue, Spotify queued up Billy Joel’s Vienna. The song begins:

Slow down, you crazy child
You’re so ambitious for a juvenile
But then if you’re so smart
Tell me, why are you still so afraid?Mm
Where's the fire, what's the hurry about?
You'd better cool it off before you burn out
You've got so much to do
and only so many hours in a day, hey

It made me wonder—had I said something aloud and my devices overheard? Was my Spotify reading my mind? Or had that song been sitting on my playlist all along, just waiting for the moment I was finally ready to hear it? I can’t say which came first—the chicken, the egg, or the algorithm—but maybe that’s not the point. Billy Joel wrote those lyrics decades ago, and they still land today. I think most of us can use a refresher so here’s a link if you want to listen and maybe “slow down” and enjoy these last breaths of summer, 2025!

Go Tigers!

Andy

HealthStyles

A Day of Wellness at the HealthStyles Fair

On August 20, the HealthStyles Employee Health Fair welcomed more than 300 participants at the Macomb Community College Criminal Justice Training Center. The event featured 42 Macomb County vendors and departments focused on health and wellness, along with lunch, swag bags, and a variety of breakout sessions.

Highlights included food samples provided by Amy Ervin, Public Health Educator with the Macomb County Health Department; chair yoga with James from Maria Marino Fitness Pros; a mindfulness class with Miloni Rathod, Ph.D., MSU Extension Services; and chair massages.

Lunch was provided by Dominic’s Catering, Soprano’s Catering, Salsaritas, The Mirage, and Firehouse Subs.

HealthStyles extends sincere appreciation to the volunteers whose efforts made the event possible. Planning is already underway for next year’s fair. Find photos from this year’s event via LinkedIn.

Providing support by keeping it casual

The Board of Commissioners proudly coordinates the Macomb County Casual Day Charitable Collections Program. With department leader permission, participating employees may wear casual clothing to work on Fridays/designated days if they donate at least one dollar. Departments must collect and send their donations to the Board office in a timely fashion.

The Casual Day program was first adopted by resolution of the Board of Commissioners in 1994 and it has continued to grow thanks to Macomb County employees’ commitment to helping others. Since the program’s inception, nearly $720,000 has been generously donated to various charities.

Upcoming casual days will support:

September – MSU Extension 4-H Youth Program

October – Macomb Food Program

October 31^st – Roseville Junior Sports LLC

New lunch options in downtown Mount Clemens

Looking for a new lunch option and a chance to get outside? If you work in Mount Clemens, there's a fun new option.

The Macomb Matters team is excited to announce that through the end of October, downtown Mount Clemens will host a food truck event every second and fourth Monday of the month in front of the Clock Tower on North Main Street. Many favorite Mount Clemens businesses close their doors on Mondays for a much-needed break, so this will help to fill the lunch-time void.

Find Buchanan’s Best, Buck N Dink’s BBQ and Shinobi Street Food trucks in Mount Clemens from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. on the below dates:

September 22
October 13
October 27

So forgo the lunchbox and head outdoors with your co-workers on these Mondays. You won't be disappointed.

Paw Prints

Fall pet safety tips

As the leaves change and temperatures drop, it’s important to keep our four-legged friends safe and healthy this season. Fall brings unique challenges for pets, from holiday hazards to cooler weather adjustments. Here are a few quick tips:

Watch the treats: Halloween candy, especially chocolate and xylitol-sweetened items, can be toxic to pets. Keep candy bowls and trick-or-treat bags out of reach.
Bundle up: Short-haired pets and seniors may need an extra layer on brisk walks.
Yard check: Autumn mushrooms can be poisonous if eaten. Clear them from areas where pets roam.
Stay visible: Shorter days mean darker walks—use reflective collars or leashes to keep your pet safe.

A little extra attention can go a long way in making sure your pets enjoy the season right alongside you.

For more resources, visit macombgov.org/animalcontrol.

Recipe corner: Pasta Bolognese

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon vegetables oil
1 carrot, scrubbed and diced into 1/4 inch pieces
1 celery stalk, chopped into 1/4 inch pieces
1 yellow onion, peeled and chopped into 1/4 inch pieces
3/4 pounds lean ground beef, 80-85% lean
1 cup water
2 cans 14.5 ounce low-sodium crushed or diced tomatoes (including liquid)
1/4 cup low sodium tomato paste
1 cup 2% milk
8 ounces whole wheat pasta

Directions Wash hands and all food preparation surfaces.

Wash and prep all vegetables
Put skillet on the stover over medium heat and add oil when hot.
Add carrot, celery and onion. Cook about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to brown.
Raise the heat to high. Pinch off tablespoon-sized pieces of the beef and add a few at a time, mixing well between additions. Cook, breaking the meat apart until it is no longer raw, starts to give off liquid and no longer clumps together, about 10 minutes.
Add the water, tomatoes, and tomato paste, stirring well. Cook about 10 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Slowly stir in the milk, a little bit at a time. Turn the heat down to low and cook 45 minutes until all the liquid has been absorbed.
Cook pasta according to package.
Drain the pasta and divide into 4 bowls, topping each with 3/4 cup of Bolognese sauce and parmesan cheese.
Store left overs in the refrigerator within two hours

Download a PDF version

MyPlate Kitchen, United States Department of Agriculture, myplate.gov