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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-10 A Newsletter for Cc u ntv Tompkins County Employees and Retirees October 2009 II c rs Volume 21, Number 3 http://www.tompkins-co.org/countycorridors Are You Prepared for an Emergency? r, ..____.. , visit w ww. n ya lert. gov for By Jessica Verfuss, Assistant Director, Dept. of Emergency Response Il more information and to sign up. • Have a place to go. Depending • Make sure you on the situation, you may have to September was National Preparedness Month. Are you ready for an emer- have an out-of-town contact and evacuate. If you plan on staying gency or disaster? you all know/have the number with family or friends, inform them • Make sure everyone has a cell ahead of time. Imagine that you have no electricity, no gas, no water and no telephone phone' or a prepaid phone card. • Create a support network. This service. Imagine that all the businesses are closed and you are without any Use 'ICE (In Case of Emergen- is especially important for those kind of emergency services. What will you do until help arrives? cy) in your cell phone, but make with disabilities and the elderly sure you tell the person you've who may not be able to help them "Emergency response is a team effort, and the most important member of listed them as an emergency selves. that team is the public," said FEMAAdministrator Craig Fugate. The truth contact. is, the more the public does now to prepare, the better we can respond in • Learn how to use text messaging. *Cell phone service may not always be avail- able during disasters and should not be relied the future." Text messages often go through upon as the only means of communication. when calls may not. According to the Ad Council, 91 % ofAmericans believe its important to be • Subscribe to alert services. Here, prepared for emergencies. However, only 58% of households report having NY -Alert is New York's all hazards taken any steps at all to prepare. alert and notification system. • Learn about plans at The need to prepare is real. Disasters disrupt hundreds of thousands work, school and other areas of lives every year. Each disaster has lasting effects, both to people and where you spend time. Emer- property. If a disaster occurs in our community, local government and .Learn about the types of gencies can strike at any time, disaster - relief organizations will try to help, but you need to be ready as even away from home. well. Emergency responders may not be able to reach you immediately, emergencies that may affect our • Keep tuned to the radio or or may need to focus their efforts elsewhere. You should be ready to be community and know how to television stations that provide respond. self - sufficient for at least three days. This may mean providing for your own .Learn about the emergency EAS (Emergency Alert System) shelter, first aid, food, water, and sanitation. information. plans that have been established Here are a few things you can do to prepare for an emergency: in our area. • Whistle There are real benefits to being prepared. Being prepared can reduce fear, • Dust masks anxiety, and losses that accompany disasters. Communities, families, and • Water; one gallon per person • Moist towelettes individuals should know what to do in the event of an emergency or disaster. per day for at least 3 days • Garbage bags • Food; 3 -day supply, non- • Wrench or pliers Some available resources: www.ready.gov; www.fema.gov; www.fema.gov/ • Can opener kids www.semo.state.ny.us; www.nyalert.gov; www.tompkinsready.org perishable • Local maps • Battery - powered or hand • Cell phone w/charger crank radiomlOAAWeaiher • Prescription medication INSIDE THIS ISSUE Radio and extra batteries There are additional items you may Notes From the County Administrator 2 • Flashlight and batteries want to consider. For a complete list, She's Retiring 2 • First aid kit visit www.ready.gov . County Environmental News 3 Veterans Memorials Rededication 4 The Puzzle 5 CSEA Local 855 Prize Winners 5 AWAR E 211 Get Connected. Get Answers 6 P REPARE Highway Highlights 7 United Way 7 Employee Spotlights..... 8 KNOWLEDGE I5 POWER. Department News 10 www.nyprepare.gov Kudos Korner 10 Classified Ads 12 -2- Notes From the County Administrator: Thanks for Your Suggestions and Support! Over the past several months, we have spent a great deal of time navigating through a severe recession. Although we are still not out 410 of the woods, I'm very grateful for the ideas, insights, and guidance offered by our employees. The tentative 2010 budget was clearly shaped by your input. Much of that input has come to us through the new electronic Suggestion Box. If you would like to submit an idea —or take a look - I at a summary of the suggestions that have been provided so far —you can access the Suggestion Box through the County's Intranet A (http: / /vvww.tompkins- co.org /employee only /forms /suggestions /suggestion.html). You can send a suggestion with your name attached or anonymously. Believe me, we seriously review every one of the suggestions and have incorporated them into our thinking about policies, programs, and budget strategies. The Suggestion Box is a continuation of the County's tradition of being innovative and working to save taxpayers' money and improving services at the same time. There are several projects happening right now that were just good suggestions a few years ago. The first is a pioneering plan for the County, City, and most of the local governments within the County (h_ptt :// www. tmpkins- co.org /pubinfo/health/) to come together as a health benefits coalition — allowing even the smallest local government to enjoy the kind of volume discounts otherwise available only to the largest employers. The plan, which begins January 1, will provide benefits that are equal to or better than the benefits already received by employees and retirees, through the same network of physicians and providers, and a familiar administrator— Excellus Blue Cross /Blue Shield. Employees, employ- ers, retirees, and taxpayers all gain when we slow the growth of health costs without diminishing benefits. We are also about to begin the installation of a new Human Resources /Payroll system that will take the place of our antiquated, paper - based, and labor - intensive current system. For payroll staff, the system will be far easier than the current process. For employees, it will provide easy, immediate, up -to -date access to their fringe time balances. For managers, it will provide useful information on items ranging from planning schedules to tracking project costs. And through the County Clerk's Office, we are well underway with a tremendous initiative that is scanning huge volumes of paper records maintained by several county departments, allowing staff much easier access to records and lowering the very high cost to store paper records in our buildings. Tompkins County is on the cutting edge of digitizing its public records. These are examples of ideas being translated into real change and innovative action in nearly every area of County government, helping us to sustain services even during a time of diminished resources. I appreciate your contribution of ideas that may be tomorrow's next major initiative, and look forward to seeing your recommendations through the electronic suggestion box. - Joe Mareane She's retiring... from THE MOST "UNPOPULAR" POSITION... By Aurora R. Valenti, County Clerk. Who is that tall beautiful blonde with the intriguing foreign accent? Look now, folks, because VALERIA COGGIN, our terrific Director of Assessment, will retire on October 30, 2009. This superlative leader has made her mark in our County, succeeding at educating real property taxpayers of the facets sur- rounding the assessments of their homes and businesses. Valeria has captured the respect and admiration of all who have had the pleasure of working with her. She not only cares about her employees, I hear, but she took steps over the years to know each of them as individuals. For example, she can tell you the name of their spouses, children, animals; and each of these employees feels a special bond with her. So, Valeria, we know you will be spending more time with your husband, John, and with your sons, Roland and Sandon, your daughter, Aleta, and your beautiful grand- daughter, Helena. Oh no, we haven't forgotten your beloved doggie, Oliver. But please.... think of us once in a while. I know for myself, I sure will miss whispering with you at Department Head Meetings!! Ciao! -3 - Sustainability Spotlight: County Environmental Efforts: Some Good News! Report from the Tompkins County Sustainability Team By Cheryl Nelson, Chair In the time when the economy is in a major Workplace Environment - A revised administra- slump, budgets are being debated, and we are f' five policy, #06 -09, titled "Facilities Management starting to think about the change of the seasons ''' " "" `" and Workplace Environment" is working its way to fall /winter (Yuk!), I thought it would be a good 1 e y ' t through the legislative review and approval pro - time to provide you with some good news, for a / J cess. This revised policy contains information that � change. That good news is the result of the ef- y will be important to all employees and outlines in- forts of the Tompkins County Sustainability Team. formation including thermostat settings, after -hour Green Purchasing- Tompkins County is afound- use of county conference rooms, and processing So, here are some highlights that I thought you ing member the Finger Lakes Environmentally work requests to the Facilities Division. Please would find informational and useful: Preferred Procurement Consortium (FLEPPC). take time to read this policy when it is approved This Consortium, with representatives from mu- and available through the county employee in- Alternatives Fuel Consortium Works to Make nicipalities, colleges, school districts, Cayuga tranet. Biodiesel Available to Municipal /Public Sec- Medical Center, and the Chamber of Commerce tor Fleets - In April, the first Toad of 9,000 gallons works to pool their collective purchasing power to Energy Efficiency - All employees are aware of of biodiesel rolled into the County Highway Divi- acquire more environmentally favorable products energy saving devices installed in the County de- sion's yard on Bostwick Road and was dumped and services. Through the efforts of this Consor- partments as part of the energy performance con - into the underground tank. Through the work of tium, County Finance, and County Purchasing, tract with Johnson Controls a couple of years ago. the Consortium and County Purchasing, bids the County now purchases copier paper with 30% These devises turned off lights and electronic were received that made biodiesel available from or 100% recycled content. For information on nu- components when left unattended for a set num- Mirabito Energy Products. Several other munici- merous environmentally friendly products, check ber of minutes. Even with these improvements, polities are now purchasing and using B5 or B20 out the Resource Guide at www.FingerLakes - which have provided substantial improvements in n their fleets. The County Legislature adopted BuyGreen.com and feel free to share the infor- the amount of energy used in County buildings, the target of reducing green house gas emissions mation with your family and friends!! there are often lights or other energy- consuming across the county 80% by 2050. Since emis- items left on in public areas of buildings. Even Vendor Fair - Mark your calendars for October though a mo- I sions from vehicles and buildings are the major N. contributors of green house gas emission levels, 22, 10AM -3 PM when a green vendor fair will be tion sensor the use of biodiesel in municipal and public sector held at the Hilton Garden Inn. Vendors will be pre- may be in- fleets makes a big step forward to reducing the senting and discussing their environmental prod- stalled on the emissions levels and helps in reaching this target. ucts and services. The event is open to county lights, please Now that biodiesel is available, the Consortium is employees, but remember to seek approval for take the time investigating compressed natural gas (CNG), pro- time away from work from your supervisor!! to turn the pane, electric, and any other potential alternative lights off when fuels and their application in the fleets. Waste Reduction - Solid Waste Management they are not Division staff members have worked with all needed or Green Fleet Policy A team comprised of repre- County departments to discuss ways to reduce you are the sentatives from the County departments that have the amount of materials thrown away and entered last person fleet vehicles has been developing a green fleet into the waste stream. Through these efforts, to leave the Lightbulb Lenny asks that you him out policy. This policy is nearly complete and w 11 soon numerous alternatives to throwing items away area. To help the lights to conserve energy and $11 be moving through the legislative review and ap- have been identified and implemented including with reminding proval process. additional recycling, composting, creation of an you of this, you will be seeing "Lightbulb Lenny" electronic listserve to advertise unwanted items to installed in public and common areas of County „041 ' ' other departments that might be interested in ob- buildings in the next few weeks. Please turn off taining them, and the selection of an employee in lights and other electronic components when not tJ fl ir n tj 0 each building /department that serves as a waste in use. Please help conserve both energy and reduction representative. money!! Infrastructure Design - The new Health Depart - -- 1- ment building located at 55 Brown Road will be :if' the County's first Leadership in Energy and Envi- { r ronmental Design (LEED) certified building!! The - _ - construction w ll be completed in the fall and the ,j Health Department staff wll move in soon there- after. -4- Day of the Giant Hogweed Giant Hogweed (Heracleum Mantegazzianum) is a member of the carrot family By Rick Ewald, Health Department (Apiaceae) which includes carrots, Queen Anne's lace and Cow Parsnip (which also produces noxious sap). The Giant hogweed, however, is not a native species. It was introduced into the United States in the early twentieth century from the Caucasus A few years ago I had the unique experi- . _ mountain region. It was brought here as an ornamental garden plant, but soon ence of visiting an old abandoned house /� + proved to be an aggressive competitor, out competing native plant species. the owner was planning to refurbish. The Being an invasive and dangerous noxious weed, the New York State Department lot was overrun with Giant Hogweed. The g g p Of Environmental conservation (DEC) and the New York State Department of plants were mature, about twelve feet tall, -,fi Agriculture and Markets (NYSDA &M) encourage homeowners and landowners and were the most abundant vegetation to call one of their hotlines as the first step towards managing a Giant Hogweed on the lot. I had an otherworldly sensation • y infestation. DEC's hotline is 1- 845 - 256 -3111, and NYSDA &M's hotline number is being on that lot: standing beneath and r . ` 1- 800 - 554 -4501 Ext. 58760. Someone will (according to the brochure) visit your surrounded by the plants reminded me of ; =' property to confirm if the weed is Giant Hogweed, and discuss management options a movie I saw as a child, The Day of the va. with you. The brochure can be found online at:www.aomkt.state.nv.us /CAPS /odf/ • Triffids, in which plants from outer space it _'� giant %hogweed %20flier.odf grew large and deadly to the human race. s. ' • . y After recognizing I am old and like schlock. ' You can also find information on the weed at a DEC webpage: www.dec.ny.gov/ movies, I decided to learn more about the • " ., ` plants. ,.%.&„ . 4Y. A ; 4 animals /39809.html Small infestations may be removed by carefully pulling up the plants and tightly First, the scary part. The tall, regal plant, which has the appearance of Queen Anne's bagging in plastic bags for the trash. Also effective is plowing the plants under the lace on steroids, produces a sap capable of causing severe skin irritation in suscep- soil, although this may have to be done for several years to remove the infestation. tible people. Contact with the sap can produce painful, burning blisters within 24 to Weed killers will also kill the plant. In all of these cases, the removal is most effective 48 hours after contact. Brownish or purplish scars may persist for several years. before the plants get too big. If the plants become taller than you leave removal to the pros. Skin, moist from perspiration, contaminated with plant juices and exposed to sunlight causes a reaction known as Phytophotodermatitis (phyto = plant, photo = light, der- The best recommendation for all concerned is: Leave removal to the pros no matter matitis = skin rash). If the plants are damp from a heavy morning dew or shower, the how big or small the plant is. If you think you have an infestation, call one of the effect will be the same as perspiration. There is one documented case of a person hotline numbers for identification and recommendations for treatment. If you think who, with sap on his hands, wiped his face, introduced the sap in his eyes, and was you have contacted the plant, get out of the sun immediately, shower and launder permanently blinded. your clothes. Mowing, cutting, or weed whacking are poor means of control and just not a good As for my first encounter with the weed, I was lucky that I only briefly brushed idea: the plants large root system quickly sends up more growth, and the plant parts against the plant with my right hand. I developed a single blister, and a small scar is flying around during cutting can land on your skin, beginning the blistering, or worse on my hand to this day. I survived the triffids, er, the giant hogweed, and hope you conditions. can, too. Tompkins County Veterans WHEREAS, these words are equally as fit - Memorials Rededicated ting for the subsequent memorials placed within DeWitt Submitted by Karen Fuller Legislature Office Park, funded in part by the Tompkins County Legisla- .. ture: the World War II memorial, dedicated November 11, 1953, the KoreanNietnam memorial dedicated July A rededication of the county veterans' memorials S - 4, 1976, and the City of Ithaca's Civil War memorial was held in DeWitt Parkon Saturday, October 3. The = ceremony honored those who made the ultimate 1 dedicated in 1988, memorializing these many persons sacrifice in wars dating from the Civil War to Iraq, as for the ultimate sacrifice given in service to this nation, well as their families, who also paid a heavy price. The and following presentation issued by Legislature Chair Mike WHEREAS, on October 3, 2009, a rededica- Koplinka- Loehr, was presented at the rededication: WHEREAS, the funding for this monument was ap- tion of the memorials is scheduled to reaffirm the re- proved by the Tompkins County Legislature, and spect and appreciation of all the residents of Tompkins WHEREAS, on November 11, 1924, all County for these many sacrifices, as well as adding to stores in the City of Ithaca closed at 1:00 p.m. to en- WHEREAS, on November 10, 1924, the the Roll of Honor the names of John C. Smith, Jr (USS able all citizens to view the patriotic parade and attend Ithaca Journal reported: "Ithaca and Tompkins County Liberty) and Patrick L. Griffin, Jr (Iraq) to their rightful the unveiling of the first World War Memorial in DeWitt tomorrow will dedicate a memorial to those who sacri- place of honor, Park, and ficed the/rail in the great cause to which the country had committed itself Even to those who served, those days NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael Koplinka- WHEREAS, this event was the largest are becoming a rather dim memory, yet this county and Loehr, Chair of the Tompkins County Legislature, do outpouring of citizens seen in the County for a public this community should never forget, and as long as love hereby proclaim Tompkins County's continued appre- event, and of country and humanity inspires us, never will forget, ciation and dedication to the memory of these men of the courage, devotion, and selflessness of those heroes the armed services who gave the ultimate sacrifice for WHEREAS, this monument's design, rep- in whose memory and to whose honor this memorial their Country, and express our hope that our men and resentative of the four Allied armies, was the result of has been erected " and women who are presently in the service of their country many hours of deliberation, with the final design being come home to us safely, that of Cornell University Professor of Architecture Le- roy P Burnham, and -5- THE 1i'VZZLE By Jackie Kippola What is your plan? Planning Department H O M X R A C N O 1 T A G I T I ME P H S T O R B I O E M I T I G R E D U C MITIGATION HOME OWNERSHIP O G R E E M H 1 M S E L O N R A N G A COMPREHENSIVE M C O M S E R T VP AT I O N L A N Y CONSERVATION GREENHOUSE E O L A D O N A X A R X R A M D E B C STORMWATER DEVELOP O C Q O N S E V A T S E T U V W D X IV NATURAL BOARD W Y U Z O M A R B C D G H N O R P E E COMMUNITY N A B D Z Y M E I T I G G E A T I 0 I ENERGY EFFICIENCY E M A F E X C S O M M R U O N L N I C REDUCE R G Y E R R E N H O E U B S A S E D 1 NODAL LONG RANGE S D T A E V E O L E O G P R P M I N F M A P D HL I S A N D C N C N O U O M P R V F I N N I A T U H R I A T L C L O M P E BONUS: COMMISSIONER'S NAME P L U B M I O T N I A G A T I 0A R X D J M L A U C N C N D A R I E B V C F K E M T S C A C E G N A R G N O L E G ANSWERS TO "THE PUZZLE" A A O E D L E N E R G Y J O A S H A D are on Page 10 T N C Z P K A T S C O T Q A D N A L H H S X R E T A W M R O T S L E S P AM If you have conrnents or suggestions for future puzzles, contact Editor Maureen Reynolds at mreynoldsetompkins- co.orq or 274-5431. Prize Winners at the CSEA Local 855 CSEA Employee Recognition Picnic Saturday, August 25, 2009 David Baker Kathy Cornell Donald Mack Richard Baker Philip Davis Mary Ellen Meade Edward Barhite, Jr. Marge Dean Amy Miller- Larkin Ida Besemer Stephanie Egan - Engels Mary Rounds Shannon Brutcher Robert Ellis Gary Schnock Mary Bush Paulette Fisher Mandy Shonk Sherry Cannon David Hoaglin Christie Sims Lee Carter Asher Hockett Ivan Thomas Melinda Case Carmen Hackett Carla Trenchard Cynthia Casterline Rosanne Lahr Bea Valent Tony Cirulli Maxine Lelik Deborah Cooper Debra Mack IOU *f ' 6 ' `A. -6- Finger Lakes Region, New York* II _PNIF2/ When You Need Help Or Giving Help ... ■111■I 111 Get Connected. GerAnswers. Flnding Help ... Thinking about giving back to the community by volunteering? Not sure what you want to do or which organization in the area you'd like to volunteer with? • My allergies are bothering me, but I'm having trouble paying for my pre- scriptions. Is there a program to help me? Here in Tompkins County, you can find the right spot for you by visiting • My parents are starting to need more assistance at home and I'm not www.volunteertompkins.orq for a comprehensive list of volunteer oppor- sure what to do. tunities in the Ithaca area. You can also call 2 -1 -1 Tompkins /Information • Where can I find some low -cost activities for my children? & Referral at 2 -1 -1 or 1- 877 - 211 -8667 to seek answers to your volunteer questions. To find out where to call for answers to these and other questions about not - for - profit and government services in Tompkins County, just dial three If you're a "people person," you'll find more than 20 opportunities working numbers: 2 -1 -1. directly with children and young people, including requests for one -on -one tutors /mentors, sports coaching and group leaders. 2 -1 -1 provides area residents and individuals who work in Tompkins County with information on finding health care, services for seniors, programs for Or, share your interest in a specific area such as art by becoming a docent people with disabilities, mental health services, legal assistance, youth pro- at the Johnson Museum of Art or sewing by helping out at SewGreen, a grams, addiction treatment, employment, housing, food resources, consumer group promoting sewing as a self - reliant and sustainable skill. information, transportation, day care, and other community services. Does helping the environment interest you? Organizations in the Volunteer Tompkins database have programs ranging from cleaning up stream banks 2 -1 -1 Tompkins is FREE, CONFIDENTIAL, consumer - focused, and building trails to helping spread the word about recycling. and non - judgmental. Referrals to services are based solely on call- ers' needs. Interpreter Services are available for callers who do not If you prefer working behind the scenes, many agencies are looking for vol- speak English. Advocacy and follow -up services are also provided unteers to help out in their offices. Several meal and food programs need when appropriate. volunteer workers in their kitchens or pantries. Callers to 2 -1 -1 Tompkins speak with a trained information and If there's a specific organization you'd like to serve, you can also search Vol - referral specialist with access to a database of more than 650 not- unteer Tompkins by organization. For instance, the American Red Cross, for - profit and government organizations that provide services in Tompkins County Chapter, offers a number of ways to volunteer. There's Tompkins County. Find our online resource directory and inter- also contact information for the many volunteer fire companies in Tompkins net chat at www.211tompkins.ora. Dial 877 - 211 -TOMP (8667) as County. an alternative number to 2 -1 -1. If a long -term volunteer commitment doesn't meet your needs, the Volunteer 2 -1 -1 Tompkins is operated by Information & Referral (I &R), a pro- Tompkins Web Site also hosts a volunteer calendar where you can find one gram of the Human Services Coalition of Tompkins County. I &R day or short -term volunteer opportunities. has provided information and referrals to community services in Tompkins County for over 30 years. Volunteer Tompkins promotes community volunteerism and facilitates among four partner organizations that coordinate and promote volunteer - With a "Hub" Center in Rochester and "Partner Sites" in Steuben and Tomp- ism in the community: Cornell Public Service Center, Retired and Senior kins counties, the 2 -1 -1 Finger Lakes Region serves 1.5 million people in Volunteer Program (RSVP), Ithaca College Community Service Program 11 counties. and the Human Services Coalition's 2 -1 -1 Tompkins/ Information and Refer- ral Services. Nationally, 2 -1 -1 serves over 234 million Americans -- approximately 78% of the US population through 210 active 2 -1 -1 systems in 45 states, Washing- Ready to lend a hand? You can reach Volunteer Tompkins at ton, D. C. and Puerto Rico and Canada. www.volunteertompkins.orq or by calling 2 -1 -1 Tompkins /Information & Referral at 2 -1 -1 or 1- 877 - 211 -8667. Prepared by Tompkins County 2 -1 -1 Submitted by Brooke Kominos, Personnel -7- ff Cjhwciy }f 4 ' k.. Submitted by Ryan Sherry, Engineering Technician THE EYE IN THE SKY — There are many computer programs, devices, and hardware that we rely on throughout our professions. Here at the Tompkins County CUL2 -W9- 129 -034 • Highway Division (TCHD), we use a variety of equipment to keep our roads clean and safe. - ©- m Besides the physical machinery, which makes up a big part of the facility, there are the behind-the- • REMAINS p y • REMOVE/REPLACE scenes tools, which make the daily operations a little easier. Among these silent tools is the Aerial CUL5 -W9- 129 -034 Photography database. Aerial Photography has 0 © WORK ORDERS proven to be a timesaver in the many day -to- - CUL2 -W9- 129 -034 day operations the TCHD performs. The ability ' CUL5 -W9- 129 -034 to study many things from vegetation, road seg- ments, and property divisions, as well as hydraulic features, such as ponds and streams, which have a large impact on the longevity of our roads and storm systems. Aerial photography not only gives us the ability to analyze features and make quick site analysis, but it allows us to translate and teach the hom- eowners and taxpayers throughout the County our intent on large projects. I find that nothing is as clear and understandable as an aerial photograph to a tax - payer. The first thing you hear after showing an aerial to someone is, "Wow, look, there's my house, cool!" They are not only useful tools but great conversation pieces. 2 y3 4 } G The TCHD also uses GIS data and tax parcel II �k information overlayed on aerial images. This allows us d f to see many layers of information, which is very valuable o in locating home addresses, utilities, and water features, " • ` which are necessary in our daily operations. °•wy • + f r - t EAST KING ROAD - CR 179 STORM SEWER REPLACEMENT United .::. Hello, County Employees, Wa y I hope you have all had a great summer! I would like to introduce myself for those of you J who may not know me. My name is Shanovah Moodie and I am the Records Officer for the Tompkins County Records Center. I am also running the 2009 -2010 United Way Campaign. This will be my second year coordinating this effort and I need all of your help to make it successful. As you all may know, we as a nation are in a critical financial state. There are some who are not affected by this crucial time, but there are many who are. I have stepped up to the plate to stand as a voice for those who are in need. I ask that you consider your blessings and give a gift that would enable someone or family to be blessed within our own community. If you have any questions I will do my best to answer them, or refer you to a Tompkins County United Way representative who can. Please contact me @ 607 - 274 -7532 or smoodie(tomokins- co.ora. Thank you for your time and remember to LIVE UNITED! Shanovah Moodie -8- Employee Spotlights Iretta Ellis Tamara VanOrman Iretta is Network /Systems Administrator in the Department of Information Tammy is a Real Property Systems Specialist in the Department of Assess - Technology Services. In 20 years of employment with Tompkins County, ment. She has worked for the County for about nine years. Iretta has held the positions of typist, account clerk, secretary, administrative assistant, microcomputer specialist, and systems analyst technician. Tammy responded to the following questions from County Corridors: Iretta responded to the following questions from County Corridors: What do you do here (your job duties)? What do you do here (your job duties)? I help process exemptions and proper - .. ty Manage the Computer Network. sales, assist the public with assessment questions and research. In addition, What do you like best about your job? have a variety of daily /weekly /monthly Working with and getting to know employees from all departments. clerical tasks. What do you like least about your job? What do you like best about your job? When something breaks and people get mad at me. What I like best about my job is my co- workers... everyone of them... they are the best group of people I have ever worked with! I also enjoy working What is your favorite thing to do outside of work? with the senior citizens that come thru our office. They have some of the Family activities — Softball, Racing, most interesting stories to tell. s . Football, Camping - What do you like least about your job? - 4 it you ran the world, what is the I dread telling someone they can't get an exemption because they filed their • first thing you would do? application late. Bring back common sense. ._' What is your favorite thing to do outside of work? Anything else you'd like to add? When I am not at work, my favorite way to pass the time is to watch my really don't read everyone's emails. daughter Sarah and son Sam in their many scholastic and athletic events. There are legitimate reasons we My husband Todd, who is also a county employee with the Highway ==� block certain web sites not just to Division, and I are devoted to making it to all their events, which keeps us i tick people off. ITS does not have quite busy. In addition, we support their various friends who are like family unlimited resources. to us. When we aren't following the kids we are busy cooking our favorite foods for our favorite people. Todd and I are a great team in the kitchen, Steve Mente and now Sarah and Sam are learning the many dishes we make. Even some of their friends are learning, too! Steve Mente is a Motor Equipment Operator in the Highway Division and has been employed by Tompkins County for 27 years. He previously held If you ran the world, what is the first thing you would do? the positions of watchman, laborer, and motor equipment operator. Steve I would never want to run the world, but I do have some words of wisdom. responded to the following questions from County Corridors: would advise people to slow down, enjoy life, and appreciate what you have today. I am a big believer in karma, so be kind to others and always be What do you do here (your job duties)? honest. Share stories and recipes with the family. Get as much out of your Truck driver, arm mower, flagger, etc. as needed. elders as you can before it's too late to ask. And if you have children, love them with all your heart. After all, isn't that why you brought them into the What do you like best about your job? world'? Being outside, variety of work. What do you like least about your job? Plowing snow late. DON'T FORGET THIS YEARS HALLOWEEN CONT T! A this year, the Halloween contest will be highlighted _�j( What is your favorite thing to do outside .... of work? in County Corridors, with two category winners — individual and " G.9 Fish, ham radio. group i � ■ The prizes, being sponsored by the Vending Committee, will be: If you ran the world, what is the first thing you would do? $20 for the group winner and $10 for the individual category winner. Take the people by the hand that can't find a job and show them all the "Help Wanted" signs that I see everywhere. I have done lesser jobs in the E -mail your pictures to Maureen Reynolds at mreynolds @tompkins - co.org. by past and might again. November 15th. -9- Thanks From Fran and Mike! From the Family of Liz Croop We want to thank all the employees Dear Friends and Fellow Coworkers, who have wished us well in our retire- • ment and for letting us know that they In the past few months I have heard from quite a few of you with sup - will miss us. _ port and comforting thoughts during my mom's (Liz Croop) illness and then her passing from this world into heaven with Jesus. We have encountered a lot of people in the last 25 years with the County. Some of them retired already and At this time I would like to thank you all for your thoughts, prayers, to them I want to let them know that now it is our turn to start the next cards, flowers, telephone calls, emails, etc. Mom lived life to its fullest, step in our life together - finally. We have really been blessed to have as you know, and she died living up to her middle name (Grace) so worked with all of you. gracefully. Thank you again. To the employees still there working, keep it up. We miss you guys Your gifts to, not just me, but my sisters and other family members also also. have made us realize what our mother taught us about life. It is about paying it forward and we are trying very hard to do just that. Please To my fellow workers in the Budget & Finance group, I'll really miss know that all you have done for us, even in our time of grief and mourn - working with all of you. ing, has made us smile in remembrance of our mother - The Lady in the Balcony - Liz Croop (Feb. 27, 1939 Aug. 17, 2009). And a special thank you for the Retirement Luncheon and the get -to- gether afterwards at the office. Also a thank you to all who joined in the Thank you again, luncheon and the get- together afterwards. It was really nice to see the Katy (Tompkins County Health Department) & Tommy Prince retirees that came to the luncheon. Mike has met more of the people Joan Peak — Sally lacovelli — Susan Pealo in the County then I have, some of you I only know by a voice on the phone, but it has been a real pleasure to get to know you even that way. I hope that I have helped you in some way at times. We are in the process of selling our house - looks good right now. Then From Aurora R. Valenti, County Clerk... we will be making a trip to South Carolina to look at places down there in a couple of 55+ communities, as soon as we get a final OK on the Why an Enhanced Driver's License? sale. We have been on the internet looking at places, but it is hard to judge by the pictures. An Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) is available to you at our DMV office. What is it? It's a most - secure identification document which may be used To the Sheriff Department employees, good luck on your contract. I will for travel anywhere in the world BY LAND OR BY SEA. In this respect it miss figuring your retro when you settle. It has been a pleasure working replaces the need for a Passport. The cost is in the area of $40, of which with all of you. your local DMV retains $9. Thanks again. On September 1, 2008, the EDL came into being; and as of August 4, Michael & Frances Armstrong 2009, your local DMV office has issued 686 EDLs. A Note About Flu Shots... STEP RIGHT UP, folks, and apply for your EDL today! To all county employees, You will be able to receive a free flu shot by coming to one of our public Keep Your DMV Office Afloat! clinics. We are not able to conduct the site specific clinics for seasonal flu shots at this point in time like we did last year. Visit our website at I am often asked, "When it's so convenient to do my DMV transactions www.tompkins- co.org /health for the complete clinic schedule. Please online or by mail, WHY should I go to our DMV office to accomplish the call 274 -6609 during business hours to schedule an appointment. At the same thing ?" clinic, identify yourself as a county employee and your immunization will be free of charge. ANSWER: BECAUSE Tompkins County receives 12.7% of every dollar that comes across our counter, to keep the office open and running! So... Depending on availability of vaccine and staffing we may be able to offer every transaction done online or by mail returns $ -0- to Tompkins County. additional clinics for county employees. The vaccine is first come, first serve, so to assure a shot, I strongly recommend that you attend one of Don't forget, you can deliver your work to me via inter - office mail, or send our public clinics. it directly to DMV via inter - office mail. We will complete your work and return it to you, again via inter - office; hence, no standing in line. Tell your Please call 274 -6609 if you have any questions. family and friends. WE NEED YOUR 12.7 %. Thanks. Alice Cole, Public Health Director -10- Department News Kudos Korner... Youth Services County Clerk's Office Tompkins County Youth Services and Planner Welcome, New Employees! Kris Bennett were recognized at a national by Aurora R. Valenti, County Clerk conference this summer.' Autumn Edwards is the newest Recording Clerk in the Tompkins Kris, who also serves as the Assistant Coordi County Clerk's Office, having joined the TCCO team on July 20, nator for the Community Coalition for Healthy Youth, delivered a workshop presentation ! wr 2009. Autumn is not new, however, to Tompkins County employment, entitled "10 Tips To Successful Implementation ' R having previously worked at DSS for 3.5 of a Middle School Social Norms Campaign" at years as Keyboard Specialist. Autumn the National Social Norms Institute's annual conference in Minneapolis, replaces long -time Recording Clerk Geri 7' ' - = - Minnesota July 12. Kris, along with co- presenters Judy Epstein (from Bochenski, who retired July 24, 2009. Ithaca's DeWitt Middle School) and Dr. H. Wesley Perkins (from Hobart l . . - . and William Smith Colleges), presented the workshop to a national Doug Smith is our new Mail Clerk in the audience of academics and practitioners who work to change risky Central Services Division as of July 20, behaviors by correcting misperceptions through the use of social norms I+ �1 - marketing campaigns in colleges and high schools. 2009, transferring from the Facilities Divi- , ai _ sion, where he was employed as cleaner. The Youth Services Department administers a federal drug prevention He also served 3.5 years in that position. grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administra- Doug replaces Mike Armstrong, who ran tion. Over a five -year period at DeWitt Middle School, Kris and Judy the Central Services operation since its inception. Mike also retired worked with a school team to regularly expose students to posters and July 24, 2009. classroom activities that conveyed actual data on the use of alcohol, tobacco, other drugs and bullying gathered through surveys of DeWitt We were so lucky to have had Geri and Mike as members of our students. team; they are dearly missed, and we speak of them often, with Since students were significantly overestimating the risk behaviors many smiles. We now look forward to a long and happy future with of their fellow students, the campaign to correct their misperceptions the new guys. helped students see that by making healthy choices they could fit in with the positive norms of their peers, Director Zahler adds. The evalu- ation performed by Dr. Perkins showed statistically significant reduc- tions in risk behaviors over time. The findings also are being published ANSWERS TO "THE PUZZLE" in a professional journal. Congratulations to... V4 r' J 3 1 0 x 1 "J M l. a 1 N :] t 8 = N _ 1 0 N d V N DA 1 Cheryl Nelson, Public Works Administration, on the birth of her two grandsons: Breylon Ross Nelson, born on June 20th, and -, • ", Adam Gregory Nelson, born on July 25,2009. . k s " , I Kevin Hulbert, Highway, on the birth of his son, Jaxson William ' r ` ., r - ' 0 on August 5, 2009. • ,, i : : a Jerry Stern, Highway, on the birth of his grandson, Ashton : . Thomas, on August 24, 2009. r 0 a NJ d J X- • N O a b' - Dawn (Arthur) Sprague, HEAP Coordinator at DSS, on her I 0 wedding to Larry Sprague July 18, 2009. i► -11- Fun in the Sun- the Friday after Labor Day By Jackie Kippola, Tournament Director Blood Drive Benefits Many A team DSS did it again: the won the 15th Annual County Employee Golf Tour- } Submitted by Cheryl Nelson and Jackie Kippola, nament. Denny Fairchild, David Chase, Frank Justice, and Denny's must -be -a- Coordinators super - golfer- brother, Mark Fairchild took home the trophies for 1" place this year. Congratulations to each of you. { The annual County employee blood drive, held on August 8th in the Borg - Warner Room in the Library, resulted in 51 units of blood But for most of once a year golfers, this tournament isn't about winning first place. } being collected from County employees and walk -in donors. These It is a recipe for a fun day: 51 units collected will benefit up to 153 individuals in need of blood or blood products in the central New York area. County employees Ingredients: also volunteered for one -hour shifts covering registration and can- • Fresh air early { teen duties throughout the day. • Sort of exercise, except we ride on golf carts all day • Healthy inter - departmental banter with co- workers and former co- workers Thank you to everyone who served as a building contact and • reached out to employees to sign up, donated a unit of blood, and/ Basking in the end of the season sunshine (14 out of 15 years) • Laughing out loud at ridiculous shots { or volunteered at canteen or registration. Thank you also, to County • Fond memories, like hearing Frank Croteau chipped one in at 120 yards { Department Heads who have supported this event each year by away ; allowing employees the time to participate. • Little cash side bet called "skins" • Getting a hot dog or burger at the turn (when else would you eat that at 10:30 a.m. ?) • Devour a mouth - watering lunch like we haven't eaten in days • Everyone gets a nifty prize, no matter what your skill level was on the { VENDNG 0 OMM1T TEE course For the benefit of those of you who haven't participated in this annual ritual, 1 ..vENDs encourage you, even if you've never hit a golf ball in your life, to sign up next year. { The first rule is that we have either two employees or former employees on our four - person team. The format is Captain and Crew - four players hit at tee shot. Buffalo Bills vs Miami Dolphins Football Game Then, the team chooses the best tee shot to play from for the second shot. The Date: Sunday, November 29th other three players pick up their golf balls and drop them at best ball chosen. All j Time: 1:00 p.m. (subject to change) four players hit from that spot and follow same sequence for all remaining shots. Cost: $70.00/pp (includes bus transportation and ticket to the game) It helps if you have one person on the team who knows the rules of golf, but it is { Seat Location: Upper Deck not mandatory. Trust me, you'll get the hang of it quickly. Reservations & Payment: Accepted through Friday, October 23 k �� j 54 tickets have been obtained for this game. Payment is required Although 1 didn't coin this phrase, every year for one Friday in Septem- i one month prior to game date. If interested, please contact Pete ber we live by the motto: A bad day on the golf course beats any { Coats soon, as tickets will likely go y(contact information quickly day at work. { listed below). Transportation Information: TBA 2009 County Employ- Denny Fairchild (DSS); ee Golf Tournament Mark Fairchild; David Bob Slocum (COFA); New York City Winter Day Trip. December 5. 2009 Chase (DSS); Frank Kevin Streeter; Diane 5th Participants Justice (PR B) McDonough; Gladys D ate Saturday, December 5 (RET) means former Brangman (RET) Cost: $35.00/pp B ob Nicholas (AIR); employee ( ) Depart: 7:00 a.m. SHARP! (From the Tompkins County Public Fritz Hess (AIR); Bob Jackie Kippola (ADM); Works Facility on Bostwick Road.) Paul Darby; Kevin tY ) Tom Richardson Sutherland (ADM); Jim Arrive: Around noon, at Bryant Park (41st Street and 6th Ave.) or (SWAS); Lynn Leopold Frank Croteau Holmes (RET); Tom Powers; (PHLTH); Joe Crosby; Macy's (34th St. and 7th Ave.). John Gail Patty Stamm (PHLTH); Tim Kessler (RET); Jeff { You're on your own to explore the vast and exciting Jack Crance (DOER); Carl Stamm (PHLTH) Potter (SHER); Tom { city, and enjoy your own interests. John Shaffer (DOER); Walpole (SHER); Daryl Depart: From Bryant Park at 8:00 p.m. Carl Smith; Dan Garrison David Squires (FIN); Avery (RET) Jonathan Wood (ATTY); Arrive: Back in Ithaca around midnight. Nancy Curtis (DSS); Har Jim Dennis (LEG); Bill Alan Scheer j Minimum of 40 neonle needed to make this trip possible. Call Marquardt DSS ;Doug Perine old Baylor (WKDV); Mike now for reservations or for additional information. DSS Marty Fulton; BJ Hughes; Mark Smarr ;y ; g Greg Stevenson (LEG); Robison Reservations & Payment: Accepted through Monday, November Suzi Cook (ATTY); Deb Sher Stevenson { 23 Lawrence; Sue Van (DOER); Lois Barden Voltanburg (DOER); (DOER), Bob Barden } Check us out on the intranet, at http://www.tompkins-co.org/em- Sherry Huddle Bill Shaff (SHER); Roger } ployee _only/VendingCommitteeNews.pdf for updated information! Griswald (SHER); Linda Griswald; Karen Potter r -12- Classified Ads Dog Dayz Inn A place where your dog feels FOR SALE – Wood splitter, 8 1/2 HP, pull and electric start, 40 -ton .. __ ram, 2 -stage pump, auto return, over - the -road tires. Mint condition. "at home ". ■ s� e- $2,000.00 or best offer. Please call (607) 532 -4092. Located in North Lansing i►�+t I Sandy Strehle, 315- 497 -3467 — FOR SALE – Upright "Doctor's" weight scale. weighs up to 350 lbs. dogdayzinn yahoo.com $25.00, or best offer. Needs to be picked up at my house. Please " http: / /www.dogdayzinn.com call Judy, at (607) 229 -6019, days, or (607) 387 -5076, evenings. FOR SALE – 1995 31' Challenger 5th -wheel camper. Features FOR SALE – Upright "Doctor's" weight scale. weighs up to 350 lbs. include two slide -outs, basement, full -size bathroom, and a queen- $25.00, or best offer. Needs to be picked up at my house. Please sized bed. Excellent condition. Asking $10,000.00, complete with call Judy, at (607) 229 -6019, days, or (607) 387 -5076, evenings. hitch. Also, 2000 Chevy Silverado 3 /4 -ton, extended cab, 3 -door pick- up. Loaded, with 81,000 miles, 6.0 Vortec engine, new tires, solid FOR SALE – Dining table. IKEA Norden solid birch butcher block, tonneau cover, excellent condition. Asking $12,000, complete with 39 "x87 ", plus 18" leaf. $250 (list price $399). Buyer must pick up in 5th -wheel package. Both for $21,000. Will consider selling sepa- Trumansburg. Please call Kathy & Bob Wilsea, at (607) 387 -5819. rately, only if the camper sells first. Must sell due to health reasons. Please call (607) 898 -5196. FOR SALE – 1985 24' Tioga motor home on Chevrolet chassis. LAMP REPAIR – Do you have favorite old lamps that are no longer Sleeps 6, NC, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, 70,000 miles, all working properly? I can restore them to their original and safe con - new tires. Very good condition. Asking $7,500.00. Must sell due to dition. Reasonable prices! Please e-mail to hickscthelight @gmail. health reasons. Please call (607) 898 -5196. com, or call (607) 319 -4090, evenings. FOR SALE – TAKE YOUR TOYS WITH YOU! 2005 Keystone FREE TO A GOOD HOME – Nearly new snow tires, size 205/65/15. Hornet Hideout camper - trailer with "garage" in the rear. Sleeps Tires were used on Toyota Camry. Please contact David Squires, at 6 +. Excellent condition. Will sell fully stocked and ready to go. dmsithaca @gmail.com, or (607) 227 -3845. $15,000.00, or best offer. Please call (607) 898 -3214, evenings. FOR SALE – 1988 Camper with front porch & deck. Clean & in WANTED – New or gently used ladies coaster or 3 -speed bike, for good condition. Hejamada Camp Ground – Montezuma, New York petite beginning bicyclist. Please call 273 -5844 with leads. Thank (camper can be moved). $1,800.00, or best offer. Please call Bob, you! at (315) 209 -2147. �„ U NNY BON „ Atilf\ GOLDEN YEARS.... THE CORRIDORS TEAM An elderly gentleman had serious hearing Managing Editor problems for a number of years. He went to the doctor and Maureen Reynolds, County Clerk's Office the doctor was able to have him fitted for a set of hearing aids Editorial Staff that allowed the gentleman to hear 100 %. Geri Lockwood, Highway Linnett Short, SW Management Division The elderly gentleman went back in a month to the doctor, Katrina Schickel, COFA and the doctor said, "Your hearing is perfect. Your family Classifieds Editor - Geri Lockwood must be really pleased that you can hear again." Multicultural Editor – Shanovah Moodie, Records Advising Editor, Page Layout The gentleman replied, "Oh, I haven't told my family yet. I Marcia Lynch, Public Information just sit around and listen to the conversations. I've changed Contributors my will three times!" All County Employees and Retirees Interested in joining the Corridors team? Contact Maureen at 274 -5431 or mreynolds @tompkins - co.org