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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-09 A Newsletter for Ccturlitv Tompkins County Employees and Retirees September 2008 rr' rs 3 Volume 20, Number s httpa /rt v.tompkins cVouume 20, Number Joe Mareane is New County Administrator Irs'w, ou "The entire organization, and particularly the A- Tompkins County welcomes Joe Mareane, currently Chief Fiscal Officer for Search Committees, department heads and ' Onondaga County, as Tompkins County's next County Administrator. County Personnel Department staff, should be Recommended by the County Administrator Search Committee and commended in attracting the level of talent and 2 confirmed by the Legislature last month, Joe will begin work on October 21st, experience that Joe Mareane will be bringing to to permit a week's overlap with the retiring Steve Whicher, then will become our community, says Legislature Chair Mike '+ :e the Administrator as of October 28h. Koplinka Loehr, who also led the County's most recent Administrator search process . "Joe's 30 - Al Mr. Mareane (pronounced "mar -ee- ANN -na') comes to Tompkins County years of commitment to public service in central < ' after 12 years as Onondaga's Chief Fiscal Officer. New York is perfectly matched by the depth of dedication and effectiveness of our county Joe holds a Master of Public Administration degree from the Maxwell School workforce in meeting the needs of residents in of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University and a Bachelor of the highest quality manner possible, given shrinking fiscal realities. We all Arts in Political Science from Indiana University - Purdue University, Fort look forward to working with him in the months and years ahead to meet the Wayne, Indiana. He is married with three sons (20- year -old twins and challenges we all face, as a cohesive team." another son, age16) and is moving to Tompkins County from Skaneateles, Notes from Joe on Page 2 New York. Notes From the County Administrators: Finally, I would like to thank the Administration staff for their constant Goodbye From Steve iik dedication to the direction and culture of Tompkins County government Even though I will miss the pace and the challenges of the Administrator's l I Well it is time to sa goodbye this time for y real. The last time I was of very mixed position as well as the company of all of you, I am ready to move on to a new , Y g Y ' phase of life. At times it seems like I started working in Tompkins County just a few years ago, but I have to face the reality that I did not and that it is emotions primarily because I was concerned - about the uncertainty surrounding the choice of time to pass reins on to someone else. :— my successor. Although I believe strongly that no one should have a voice in the choice of one's replacement, after I wish you all the very best in life. Joe, good luck. You have the best job in dedicating nearly 20 years of my working life to Tompkins County, I care the State of New York. In time the Birkenstocks will feel natural. deeply about the culture of the organization and the quality of the services - Steve Whicher we deliver. With the choice of Joe Mareane as the next County Administrator I am confident I am passing the Administrator's duties to responsible and competent hands. For the most part, I have enjoyed my tenure in Tompkins County and I INSIDE THIS ISSUE appreciate having had the opportunity to work with all of you. I would like to Hello From Joe 2 thank the Legislature for their support, guidance, and encouragement during CSEA Picnic 2 the challenging times, your wisdom and insight were incredibly important to New Probation Director, 3 me. I would also like to thank the Department Heads for the advocacy and Blood Drive 3 leadership they bring to their program areas. Every year you have faced the "Veen" Solution at the Airport 4 difficulties and heartbreaks that come with the job and have gone on to United Way s Diversity and Inclusion 6 celebrate the successes that are the result of your hard work. To every Get What You Pay For 7 member of the staff in Tompkins County, thank you for your selfless Employee Spotlights a dedication that makes Tompkins County such a wonderful place to live and Bocce, Anyone? 9 work. Department News 10 A Poem 11 Classified Ads 12 r - -2- t 'i Notes From the County Administrators: Hello From Joe Although only time will tell if I'm right, I think all of these experiences uviII be relevant and helpful as we navigate through the host of challenges that always confront county governments. Today, I know Steve Whicher has invited me to use this column to introduce myself. Tompkins County government mainly by its reputation —and its Toward the end of October, I will be doing my best to fill the very large reputation is excellent. You are known to be a smart, progressive, shoes Steve will leave behind. efficient, well- managed organization. I am truly looking forward to joining you in Tompkins County government and getting to know each Over the next several weeks, I will be wrapping up my work in of you. Onondaga County, where I have served as Chief Fiscal Officer since late 1996. Although much of my work in Syracuse has been involved As my wife Amy and 16 -year old son Jonathan begin the process of in the management of the County's budget and finances, I have also relocation (our twin sons Mark and Matt are away at college), we are had the chance to be involved in some of our area's largest economic also looking forward to becoming a part of a beautiful community that development projects, consolidation initiatives, and policy issues. so many have described as one of America's best places to live. Before the CFO job, I worked with the Pyramid Companies on a major For those of you who I have already met, thank you for your kind shopping mall project in downstate, served as the vice president of the thoughts and hospitality. For those I've yet to meet, I look forward to Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce, and spent thirteen years talking with you soon. with the City of Syracuse in several positions including director of development, budget director, and assessment commissioner. -Joe Mareane Another Successful Picnic ," C 5E By David Chase, Social Services - President CSEA Local 855 CSEA LCCAL tOOO,AFSCYE,AFl..IC Saturday, August 16th saw the weather usher in another beautiful day for the annual CSEA Local 855 Employee Appreciation Day Picnic. Once again a large portion of CSEA Local 855 employees showed up at Stewart Park to enjoy great food from Hope's Way. The following Picnic goers were also lucky enough to have their names drawn for prizes: , - , ;_� Ernestine Wright - CSEA Beach Towel a... - Andrew English - Gift Certificate from The Boat Yard Grill ' ... �i, ! # Robert Mitchell - Golf Passes to Trumansburg Golf Course - o ,4, T, • ° w -7 �,% .'> Tina Robinson - HD Radio y A , �.. \ ii • • v • , � „r Michael Peck - LCD TV +- :+ - P Rick Reed - CITGO Gas Card . - ^ S , k ' r ^" - _ • ;+ , Susan Recor - Sunoco Gas Card - Carrie Baylor - Bed Bath & Beyond Gift Card - -- - 4 . 41b 1 `- Robert Hollenbeck - Barnes & Noble Gift card s_ . -_ Joan Hubbell - Hollywood Video Gift Card ..—.,,* .` Erma Peterson - Hollywood Video Gift Card Karen Royce - CITGO Gas Card - ■ Rhonda Grier CITGO Gas Card • M 1 ichael English - Digital Camera r , 9 , Doreen Schrader - Pier 1 Imports Gift Card = N $ <<a � E dward B arhite - I POD 1 `% Sandra Aloi - Hillendale Golf Passes , i. _ Lisa Lorer - Taughannok Farms Inn Gift Card j , d Bea Valent - GPS Navigation Device 4 ;;.'q`' , Michelle Doe - Gas Card ,, ±' L' ' ° "" '' i Lee Carter Gas Card _ , 1 � ' Autumn Edwards - Applebees Gift Card ... 1 ) to' Jimmy Everts - Lowe's Git Card - a _ • Jackie Lent - Newman Golf Package ` Pat Rveb - I POD Shuttle _ r 111•• ! ' - 3 - Pat Buechel Promoted to Probation Director rte`, Patricia Buechel is the new Director of the Department of Probation and Community Justice. Pat's appointment by Administrator Steve Whicher was confirmed by the Legislature in August Pat enters the director's position with 20 years of service to the Probation Department. First hired as a probation officer in August 1988, she advanced to Senior Probation Officer in 1999, and was then promoted to Probation Supervisor in 2005. Ms. Buechel holds a Bachelor's degree from the State University of New York at Cortland. "During her twenty -year career Ms. Buechel has prepared herself well for this opportunity," notes Administrator Whicher. 'The selection committee was very impressed with Ms. Buechel's supervisory and communication skills, as well as her extensive Probation experience. I am very confident that she will do an outstanding job leading Probation in the years to come." "I am proud to have had my hand in every specific ATI program the County offers," states Buechel. "I will continue to be committed to those programs as Director. She also praises her predecessor, the retired Kathy Leinthall, adding, "I urriII work to continue Kathys open approach to department leadership and to maintain the positive relationships she established with other County departments." Annual Employee Blood Drive Successful By Cheryl Nelson, Public Wotts what a deal!!! I hope that more of my fellow employees urrill consider On August 26 county employees and other community members that making a donation at next year's drive. walked in donated 43 units of blood at the annual employee blood drive held at the Borg Warner Room in the Library. Up to 129 individuals will A special thank you to the employees that serve as building contacts benefit from the units collected at this annual event. and get individuals signed up to donate or volunteer at the registration table or canteen. Many of these employees have volunteered their Thank you to the department heads for granting lime to the employees time, help, and commitment to this event for several years. These to donate blood or work at the registration table or canteen as regular building contacts make my job of developing and maintaining the time worked without requiring the use of fringes. Your generosity is master schedule much easier. A special thank you to Geri Lockwood sincerely appreciated. for her extra efforts in helping with logistical tasks for the drive. The goal for the drive was 51 units. With a work force of 700, it would Be watching for information on the 2009 blood drive in upcoming seem reasonable that we could get at least 10 %of the employees to editions of County Condors. If you have questions about blood donate. It only takes about one hour and you get paid for doing it — donations, check out the Red Cross website. Remember, you can donate blood every 56 days and there is always a need for it. I hope that you decide to make a commitment to this worthwhile effort. County Employees Step Up to a Healthy Challenge Theresa Lyczko, Health Department Welftess Committee their worksite. And every participant who completes the eight -week The Wellness Committee is encouraging fellow employees to be more competition uviII be entered into a raffle drawing for prizes. physically active and to enjoy the fruit and vegetable harvest. And employees will have fun at the same time if they joined Step Up, a The Wellness Committee also provided a pedometer with a list of friendly competition. walking tips to every employee whether or not they joined the competition. Challenge yourself. Think about how you can be more Step Up is an online program through Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield physically active and walk 10,000 steps a day. that takes a team approach to building healthier lifestyles. Team members strive for 10,000 steps and 5 servings of fruits and Wellness Committee members: vegetables a day. They record their daily progress and measure their individual and team progress along with other county teams. The eight Barbara Davieds — Mental Health Brooke Kominos — Personnel —week competition begins September 3 and ends October 29. Stephanie Egan — Solid Waste Theresa Lyczko — Health The team that comes closest to meeting the goal of 10,000 steps and 5 Jim Strehle — Airport servings of fruits and vegetables a day will win a lunch delivered to -4- "Green" Solution at the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport By Bob Nicholas, Aliporf In March 2008, C &S Companies of Syracuse announced the receipt of University's Lab of Ornithdogy, C &S worked to preserve the Sapsucker a Silver Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies, Woods trees for the public to enjoy. New York Chapter, for their work in connection with an Environmental Assessment project they had just completed at the Ithaca Tompkins "C &S kept an open mind and was able to devise a solution that Regional Airport. C &S Companies (C&S) have been the airport's benefited all stakeholders," said McDermott. engineering consultants for over20 years. With the FM's grant assistance in pace, staff at C &S and the airport The Environmental Assessment at the airport involved the evaluation began analyzing methods, other than tree removal, that would ensure a and mitigation, where possible, of any environmental affects that might safe operating environment for the people who fly in and out of the come about as a result of planned obstruction removal (mostly trees Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, even in inclement weather - an and shrubs) from critical areas of the airport. Removal of airport essential goal if the FAA were going to sign off on the sdution. obstructions is necessary from time to time to ensure the safe operation of aircraft when taking off or landing. Because the area in question was just outside the critical runway protection zone, instead of removing trees within the Sapsucker Woods According to C &S' Planning Department Manager, Charlie McDermott: Sanctuary, C &S made a case to the FAA that a safe alternative would "the most environmentally sensitive area of trees is located in be to mark the obstruction with hazard warning lights on top of two or Sapsucker Woods, which is adjacent to the runway protection zone at three poles. The pdes would be erected at strategic points on the outer the south end of the airport." It was clear from the beginning of this perimeter of Sapsucker Woods. The solution, which included the use of contract that C &S and the airport would need to meet with community solar powered lights, was put forward to the FM for their consideration stakeholders and work towards a sdution that satisfied not only the and they were satisfied the operational integrity of the airport would not Federal Aviation Administration's (FM) safety concerns but addressed be compromised by marking the obstructions instead of removing the needs of the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithdogy and various other them. The good news of this win -win solution was passed on to the environmental groups. The goal was to ensure flight safety while trying stakeholders to the general satisfaction of all. to craft a solution that preserved and protected an area of valuable dd- growth trees. C &S Companies have completed more than 250 airport planning, environmental, design and construction management/inspection Trees are the largest and longest living organisms on earth. To grow projects in the past 5 years for more than 50 airports, ranging from tall the tree has become a miracle of engineering and a complex commercial service to privately owned airports. chemical factory. It is able to take water and salts out of the earth and ( http:ll www.cscos.comlmarketslairports) lift them up to its leaves, sometimes 400 feet above the ground. Trees also remove carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas, from the air. For more information about this project or any other capital projects (http://vwvvv.turnincitods.co.ukltreesltrees2.html). planned for the airport over the next few years, please e-mail me at bnicholas(o)tompkins- co.orq. In conjunction with Airport Administration, the County's Planning Department, the Environmental Management Council, and Cornell Sustainability Update By Kat McCarthy, Solid Waste Did you know? Have you noticed? ...that if you are a Tompkins County resident, you can place all your # _ + t - ...new recycling bins in your recyclable containers into a receptacle that is up to 40- gallons in size department? As a part of the County's for curbside colection? Please note that this receptacle cannot weigh • _ sustainability initiative, Tompkins more than 40lbs when full. Most local department stores sell these County Sdid Waste is providing all containers. County departments with green deskside recycling bins. In addition, Remember, all recyclable paper products can be put in paper bags, a Sdid Waste has also been communicating with reusable cardboard box, or a recycling bin for curbside collection. The representatives in each department to clarify waste handling practices, box or bin cannot exceed 40 pounds, and will be left behind, next to answer questions, and provide technical assistance for recycling. As a your 40- gallon container, at the time of collection. Cardboard recycling part of this initiative, Sdid Waste also offers free presentations to boxes and unmarked receptacles should be clearly labeled with an "R ", departments upon request. For more information, please contact which can be done with marker or leftover paint. Tompkins County Linnett Short or Kat McCarthy at 273 -6632. Solid Waste now provides stickers for this purpose, upon request. Additionally, recycling bins may be purchased at the Solid Waste Management Division office. - 5 - TT � United Make a Difference...Through the United Way Af ay Greetings everyone, Thanks! From Ann Colt I am proud to be this year's United Way campaign county representative. The United United Way of Tompkins County Way is a wonderful organization that has worked very hard to help those in the community who are in need. By now, you should have received your pledge cards to Thanks for all ofyour help with our very participate in this wonderful circle of giving. As you prepare to give to the United Way successful UWTC Stephen E. Garner Day I would like you to be aware of some vital information. of Caring. We are so thankful for all of the donations from the our Tompkins ❖ Your contribution is given to the organization ofyour choice. County employees that you organized and ❖ You are allowed to specify where you want your contribution to go. delivered to the park! ❖ You can also specify where you do not want your contribution to go. ❖ 100% of your donation goes toy our charity or charities of choice. With many thanks, Ann All donations can be returned with your pledge card to 125 East Court Street. Remember that when you give you Thank you all for your someone or family that is in need. It is important to Ways contributions to the United help Y p Ways food and personal remember that every donation counts whether it is care items drive. The — — - monumental or pocket- sized. Please give to a cause United Way would not have that will help bring a brighter tomorrow for someone or been able to meet their goal in our Tompkins County community. If you without your w nde participation. tion. It family e ' _ Y p tY tl'• Y was really wonderful to see have any further questions please contact me at 607- that so much of you cared. 274 -5557. Thank you for your time Way to go Tompkins County • " { t employees, you rock! LIVE UM*: '1111���� V _• Shanovah Moodie — Personnel Department 2 '. • Shanovah and Day of Caring " Chair Laurie Linn National Preparedness Month - Plan and Prepare to Protect By Cheryl Nelson As the seasons start to change and we head into fall and winter, it is Spread the word and have some fun. Get all of your family members the time of year when we think about getting ready for all kinds of involved in planning and preparing an emergency kit. Spread the word changes like getting out the jackets and boots, checking out the to your family, friends, and civic groups and get them motivated to start heating system, winterizing the vehicle, cutting wood for the fireplace or their own planning. Hold neighborhood events and share information. woodstove, sealing up drafts, and harvesting the bounty of local Talk to your local government officials to see what plans are in place produce for use during the winter. for your municipality. Find out where the closest emergency shelter would be. Have a friendly competition to see who can get their plan With all of the annual fall rituals, why not include one more. Plan for and emergency kit together first. emergency situations. It is an excellent time to think about and prepare for how you, your family, your neighborhood, and your community September is National Preparedness Month and it is an excellent would function in the event of a natural or man -made emergency. Do opportunity to spend time to plan and prepare to protect yourself and you have an emergency kit? Do you know where the local shelter is in your family. Best of all, there is no need to reinvent the wheel. There case you had to evacuate your home? Do you or any family members are numerous resources and websites that have this all mapped out. have special medical needs? Do you have required medications or All you need to do is spend a few minutes checking them out and you special medical supplies on hand? What about your pets? How would will be on your way to developing your own customized plan that meets you communicate with or notify your family if all forms of conventional the needs of you and your family. For more information go online to communication were unavailable? Does your employer have an www.nyprepare.gov, www.readv.gov, www.tompkinsready.org. emergency plan? Make your plans now and it will be one thing to cross off your list. With everything we have to do in our buys lives, it is sometimes Each fall you can revisit your plan and make changes as needed. daunting to even think about such things and instead we make up That will give you peace of mind and more time to spend on those excuses like "maybe if I ignore it, it will go away" or "things like this other tasks. always happen somewhere else and not to me." Sound familiar? -6- Diversity and Inclusion In Tompkins County By Shanovah Moodie, Personnel I am pleased to announce that Tompkins County Personnel has been nominated by Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID) to receive an award on behalf of the entire organization's efforts to provide employment opportunities and workplace accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This award is being presented in honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Tompkins County has a strong commitment to diversity and continues to create a diverse and inclusive work environment. Initiatives that have been taken to incorporate diversity include the development of the Workforce Diversity Inclusion Committee (WDIC) and the development of the Tompkins County Diversity Consortium. The Personnel Department has been pleased to participate in community events, such as the GIAC Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival in an effort to reach out to the diverse community that we are fortunate to be a part of in Tompkins County. The Diversity Consortium (DC), is a group of representatives from various organizations in the community that gather together T'�v� %wh once a month to share job opportunities and ideas that will support a dynamic and diversity inclusive work environment and Covey The rP The Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Committee is a county advisory board, made up of county legislators, employees and community members who gather monthly to discuss inclusion in the Tompkins County workforce and community. (Continued on Page 7) r 1 *� --- -- # -- -.--- # -- # -- # -- #-- #-- #-- #- - # - - # — .� 1 ■ The Friday After Labor Day By Jackie Kippola, CountyAdrnuNStlation What happens every year, on the Friday after Labor Day? Well, for quite a few County employees, we grab three golf partners, our golf clubs, and head to Trumansburg Golf Course for fun all day at the Tompkins County Employee Golf Toumament. This year we celebrated our 14th outing with sunny, breezy blue skies above us. It is a wonderful way to meet and greet colleagues from other departments in a relaxing setting, especially during the barbeque that follows the competition. All players walk away with a prize supported by our Vending Committee funds and sponsors. Thank you Vending Committee and sponsors for your continued generous support. Congratulations to this year's winners, Denny Fairchild and David Chase from DSS, Frank Justice, former Probation employee, and Mark Fairchild. The rest of the field is listed below in a random order. While this years' number of teams was a bit lower than previous years, we completely expect our usual 20 +teams to return for the 2009 shootout. Team 1 Team 8 Craig Hopkins (RET) Jackie Kippola (ADM) Bob Nicholas (AIR) Bill Rocco Jim Serio Paul Darby Bob Mastropaolo Ralph Napolitano Team 2 Team 9 Tim Kessler(RET) JeffPotter(RET) Frank Croteau (PHLTH) Joe Crosby Tom Walpole (RET) Daryl Avery (RET) Sue Bowman (PHLTH) Ronny Bowman Team 3 Team 10 Alan Scheer (DSS) Doug Perine (DSS) David Squires (FIN) Jonathan Wood (ATTY) Marty Fulton BJ Robison Jim Dennis (LEG) Bill Marquardt Team 4 Team 11 Jack Crance (DOER) John Shaffer (DOER) Greg Stevenson (LEG) Sherry Stevenson (DOER) Carl Smith Dan Garrison Lois Barden (DOER) Bob Barden Team 5 Team 12 Nancy Curtis (DSS) Harold Baylor (WKDV) Bill Shaff (SHER) Roger Griswald (SHER) Mike Hughes Lynn Leopold Linda Griswald Karen Potter Team 6 Team 13 Gerry Surine (SHER) Timmie Miller (SHER) Bob Slocum (COFA) Kevin Streeter Jack Russell Suzanne Alexander Team 7 Denny Fairchild (DSS) Mark Fairchild David Chase (DSS) Frank Justice (PROB) -7- Get What You Pay For! Y Submitted by Don Ellis, Weights and Measures , Rim. Yr 99 Materials Provided by: New York State Weights & Measures Association and � `'' 4 'SIT' The National Conference On Weights And Measures When Buying Gasoline Good measurement is important when you buy gasoline and motor violations are found, the seller can be fined and the product can be fuel. These fuels are sold by vdume in gallons or liters. The price you removed. pay for gasdine will depend upon: Gasdine stations offering their mid -grade or high -grade product at the low -grade price on a certain day of the week, must change the unit 1. The octane level, which may affect your car performance; price of the product in the computer in the gasoline pump so that the 2. The amount you buy, and total price is calculated mechanically — they cannot compute the total 3. Any discounts offered. price manually. A computer in the gasoline pump calculates what you owe based on WHAT YOU CAN D0: the amount and the unit price of the gasoline. When comparing prices, be sure to compare gasoline with the same octane. Usually, the higher ❑ Be sure the attendant or you are using the correct pump. The the octane rating, the higher the price. Also check to be sure you are octane rating and the price per gallon or liter must be clearly marked on comparing the same unit of measurement. Is the price per gallon or per each pump. liter? Compare the price of a gallon of gasdine at one station to the ❑ Be sure the pump is set to zero before any gasoline is pumped. price of a gallon of the same octane at another station. ❑ Check the price by multiplying the number of gallons or liters by the unit price. Be sure this shows as the total due. Weights and measures officials routinely check gasdine pumps for ❑ Figure the cash discount, if any. Check that you are charged the accuracy. Pumps found to be out of tolerance are sealed from use and right amount. ordered repaired and must be re- tested before they can be put back in ❑ If using a credit card, check your receipt to be sure the amount use. New pump installations must be inspected and tested prior to billed is the amount on the pump. being put into service. In many areas, they also check gasoline storage ❑ Take your card and any carbon paper from the credit slip. tanks to be sure that stations are selling the octane level advertised. If ❑ If you have a problem or question that you cannot resolve with the gas station, contact your local Department of Weights and Measures for assistance. Diversity and Inclusion (Continued from Page 6) Tompkins County Diversity Statement To guide the County's efforts, this group developed a diversity statement (at right), which was adopted by the County Legislature in Tompkins County government is committed to creating a July 2005. diverse and fully inclusive workplace that strengthens our organization and enhances our ability to adapt to change by We are fortunate in our county to have initiatives that emphasize the developing and maintaining: importance of diversity and inclusion. ❖ an organization -wide understanding and acceptance of the However, each of us has a responsibility to support diversity and the purpose and reasons for diversity; principles of inclusion in our organization. You may think that you must •S recruitment and retention policies that assure a diverse commit to a huge task to incorporate diversity in your own work workforce; environment; however it only takes some simple steps to help •S a workplace environment that is welcoming and supportive materialize change. of all; •S awareness, understanding, and education regarding You can simply have a conversation with a co- worker to enable you to diversity issues; learn something about that person you did not know before. •S zero tolerance for expressions of discrimination, bias, harassment, or negative stereotyping toward any person or Stay away from stereotypes and make an effort to understand and group; respect your co- workers at large. ❖ a workforce ethic that embraces diversity and makes it the norm for all interactions, including delivery of services to Understand that diversity applies to every individual, even yourself. the public. We all have differences and need to be celebrated for who we are. - 8 - Employee Spotlights In this election season, we turn the Conidots spotlight on two dedicated (and no doubt very busy!) employees at the Board of Elections. Laura Owens and Jennifer Terpening both serve the County in the position of Senior Elections Clerk. Laura has worked for the County for four years, Jennifer for two-and - a-half years. Laura and Jennifer responded to the following questions from County Conidots: Laura Owens What do you do here (your job duties)? Voter registration, working with the public, • � running daily reports, helping set up election C" I ; !( inspector trainings, election night reporting �� Y � entries in Microsoft Access. FoSTtnRE-C Ri' i\o' What do you like best about your job? I enjoy working with both my coworkers and 0. the public addressing new situations and issues every day. _ SIP What do you like least about your job? It can be difficult to remove deceased voters from the rolls. What is your favorite thing to do outside of work? I enjoy networking with my cyberspace friends If you ran the world, what is the first ! . thing you would do? I would establish free elections for all. Jennifer Terpening Laura Owens Jennifer Terpening What do you do here (your job duties)? We make provisions so that every eligible citizen in Tompkins County who desires to vote is given the opportunity to vote. We register new voters, send ballots to absentee voters, and keep current records of every registered voter in Tompkins County by changing addresses, names, parties., purges, or making them inactive. We recruit and train inspectors concerning the intricacies of the voting day and the use of the machines We keep 43 polling sites informed of voting days, training sessions and machine transportation for each Election Day. Recently, we've been surveying the sites to determine space and electrical requirements so that we can accommodate our new voting machines and arrange for the best possible voter flow. What do you like best about your job? I take pleasure in working with and talking to the voters and the inspectors in our county. As I've gained knowledge of the workings of the New York State voting structure, I've come to appreciate the complexity and integrity of the system. I've also taken advantage of many of the employee training opportunities that Tompkins County is so generous to offer. What do you like least about your job? Every job has a few annoyances; however, I haven't come across any that really stand out as being particular to this job. What is your favorite thing to do outside of work? I never tire of the natural settings in the area, especially the gorges and the lake. My exercise is walking and I enjoy photography at the same time. Thank goodness for the digital camera! I can download one good picture that's worth saving out of the 100 I've taken. I use many of my photos to make cards for friends and family; I think it adds a personal touch. If you ran the world, what is the first thing you would do? I think that running the world would be a daunting, if not impossible, task —and clearly beyond my pay grade. Although I think there would be remarkable results if the leaders of all countries had a vision of what could be accomplished if they would engage in a sincere respect for the human rights and the talents of all of their countrymen. -9 Bocce, Anyone? By Scott Doyle and Dariele Drake, Planning s_ Bocce, as defined by Wikipedia, is a precision sport belonging to the boules sport family, closely 1 . , ».Y ? , • related to bovrls and petanque with a common ancestry from ancient games played in the`'+"''"" K� ►�dtR.crt Roman Empire. ? fJ r' 44 7 ' { 1.\ Developed into its present form in Italy (where it is called Bocce, the plural of the italian word R�z : t, .fi . :*Wipe ,. PS �,.` r f • ofte referredrt is o as lawn played around d al features ceramic balls (typically red, Park. 4 reen to allow for t r ti; . � . ' '�; f i • two teams) about the size of grapefruits. The goal is to place these balls closest to one smaller - s • s.� >. .;, 2 , ball about the size of a racquetball. The closest ones score points. The bocce balls in a close call. Downtown Ithaca is home to a weekly bocce matchup. During Summer Friday lunch hours, fnendy staff gatherings gradually evolved into a weekly challege between the County Planning Department and the Ithaca - Tompkins County Transportation Council ( ITCTC). This time honored tradition, established in 2007 by Senior Planner Scott Doyle, is the envy of many lunchtime passersby. As Mth any true competition, a trophy was required. Teresa Linde of the ITCTC found a suitable old tree branch on the pitch. "The Stick," as it is affectionately referred to, mirrors the trophies of great rivalries, like the Cortaca Jug (Ithaca Cdlege- Cortland State) or the Platypus Trophy (Oregon - Oregon State.) A notch is made in the winning team's column, and the honor is displayed on the department victors front desk for the week. Should you find yourself near the park around midday on a nice summer day, keep your eye out for the game. And if you are feeling game - join in for a round! • ,fa B_ r c rc ipH ? Measuring things out _ The playing group Foster Care /Adoption Informational Meetings Submitted by Ellie Arnold To anyone who may be considering becoming a foster parent or adoptive parent and wants more information, Tompkins County Department of Social Services holds informational meetings at the Human Services Building, Room 142, 320 W. State St. on the second Thursdays of each month. The upcoming meetings will be held October 9, November 13 and December 11, 2008 from Noon to 1 PM. -4 1k Tompkins County has a special need for foster families in the Ithaca City School District and for famiies who will foster teenagers. Please call 274 -5266 for more information. Thank you. -10 Department News Office For the Aging Kudos Korner... Welcome, Suzanne Motheral County Clerk Aurora Valenti Earns Suzanne Motheral has joined the State Association Award ranks of the dedicated staff at COFA as an outreach worker. Awora R. Valenti, Tompkins County Clerk, has been awarded the Suzanne brings an extensive "Lifetime Achievement Award" by members of the New York State background in a variety of fields to Association of County Clerks (NYSACC). her work at COFA. In addition to \• being a current student at the The award was presented at the association's annual dinner, held at Gerontology Institute at Ithaca Lake Placid, New York on June 10. Previously, Clerk Valenti received College, Suzanne has a broad the association's "Annual Achievement Award" and was recognized as range of experience in working "County Clerk of the Year" in 2000. collaboratively with a variety of organizations. She has developed She has been an officer and active member of NYSACC for 18 years. workshops and facilitated meetings at the Community Dispute The Association consists of the 62 County Clerks of New York State Resolution Center and also directed a fellowship in ethical leadership and the New York City Register. development in Pittsburgh and was adjunct faculty at Carnegie Mellon University. Solid Waste Division: We are delighted to have her expertise and input into the services we Tompkins Go Green County of the Year can provide older adults and their caregivers here in Tompkins County! Tompkins County is being honored as the nation's Go Green County of the Year, in recognition of the Solid Waste Division's innovation and success with its Go Green Initiative program, which unites parents, students, teachers, staff and administrators to create a culture of 1. 13 environmental responsibility in schools throughout Tompkins County. °` Tompkins County receives the nation's first- ever Go Green County award on October 18 in Syracuse . In a radio interview on September 19 111, Stephanie Egan, Kat McCarthy and Linnett Short talked to a nationwide audience (estimated at 5 million people!) on the web site www.voiceamerica.com, 1 National Go Green lnitiative founder Jill Buck says she is 'Very, very Gladys Brangman, reigning "COFA Princess" took on a new job in proud" of the Division's commitment to make Go Green an integral part Albany this August. Upon her departure she bequeathed her title and of its program, and she hopes it will serve as an example to other crown to Danielle Conte (right), COFA Planner. She also conferred the county environmental and solid waste coordinators across the nation. title of "Queen" to Lisa Holmes (left ), Director of the Office for the Aging. Need Space? Highway Division Congratulations to Tom (Highway Crew Supervisor) and Sue Jacobs, The airport has vacant space for rent Two offices in the CFR on the birth of their first grandchild, Madalyn Susan Thane, on June 8, building - one 15 ft. by 29 ft and the other 15 ft. by 14 ft 2008. A large conference room is available for use at no charge, Facilities Division subject to availability. Parking is right outside. Rental terms are negotiable. Congratulations to Dana Dexter on the birth of his grandson, Mason Alexander Lavigne, bom on August 23, 2008. Call Bob Nicholas 257 -0456 Ext.543 County Clerk Maureen Reynolds, Deputy County Clerk, is the proud grandmother to Chloe Reynolds, born June 27th, 2008 - 11 - Can you believe it? =� Halloween is coming! FUNNY tONES The Halloween contest this year i I being highlighted in County Corridors will have two category 1 .; winners — individual and group. What do witches eat at Halloween ? The prizes, being sponsored by the Vending Committee, will be: $20 for the group winner and $10 for the individual Spooketti, halloweenies, devils food cake and category winner. booberry pie I E -mail your pictures to Maureen Reynolds at mrevnoldsatompkins- co.orq. by November 15 Why is the air so clean and healthy on Vending Committee "Vends Halloween? Website: Because so many witches are sweeping the sky. Please remember to visit our website, on the employee Intranet (click on the link under "Events /News "), or www.tompkins- co.org/employee_onlyNendingCommittee News.pdf. Be sure to visit regularly for updated information on all trips, news, etc. Sign up today for these great excursions! Visit the website for full details on the following: ❑ Captain Bill's Lunch Cruise, October 5t". ❑ New York City, December 6 A Poem... Please see your Department Representative (names listed on the website) to share other ideas. Here's a little ditty for all to see, Not from someone famous, just little ole me. The times are so tough for us all, VENOM COMMITTEE Used to be we could sit back and just have a ' E v E N I S r • ball. Now we have a need to count out all our UPC TR = ?S: BE SURE TOR ATC H FOR FL -RTHER DETAILS ANDIOR UPDATES! change, It's enough to make anyone deranged! C1.011 Bill's Branch (Cry` .yao.aeu.�sroraaryR•r,am. ano..au.s.�.a�tr$r�-! a}r,. d.ar+ -as oassa. But, not to worry one little bit, Working for the County is just the right fit! At least we have a job where many do not, G . �_>s 2 awl ° a 510 00,a-ma-mama }:'; � .6" ' � Look on the bright side where X marks the where aan curs °r�ol+. �_'- r °ssi �.o® e v«t saa:ae• z=x:. ll�. F�.a spot! ..:d.dmm k.d° sa d .. ma m amFaa® �rmadaa® a® - Mary Mill MOM ire.Fer! CityblisterO Trio MA EN S* t7. December r err JIM S 700 as SHAH, (Fro. d-s rompkxr Caw, Pa*tir W°dr F 1, * BOakxk Rea.) - 12 - Classified Ads Dog Dayz Inn - * * NOW OPEN* * —EAST SHORE CAFE 1638EAST Sion DRR/E; ITHACA, NY 74850 A place where your dog feels (607)277 -3433 "at home ". FULL RESTAURANT & BAR, EXTENSIVE WINE LIST KITCHEN HOURS 5PM — ]OPM, OPEN 7NIGHTSA Located in North Lansing WEEK Sandy Strehle, 315 - 497 -3467 ; i * AMERICAN CUISINE dogdavzinnt7avahoo.com APPETIZERS, SALADS, SANDWICHES, STEAK, http: / /www.dogdayzinn.com SEAFOOD, PASTA, & CHICKEN DISHES — HOMEMADE DESSERTS www.EAsTsHoREcAFE.com COM FOR SALE — Brand New John Deere Gator CX (11 months FOR SALE — 1987 29' Nomad tag -along camper. Features old), only 26 hours on it Will sell for $4,500.00, or best include front kitchen, rear twin beds, bunks (can sleep eight), offer. I love the machine, just want a bigger one. Please with a newer water heater and lots of storage space. Good call (607) 351 -1070, or e-mail ju1ia94bi1 c@ty, ahoo.com condition. Must sell due to health reasons. $3,500.00. Please call (607) 898 -5196. FOR SALE — 10- gallon fish tank. Includes everything FOR SALE —1995 31' Challenger 5 -wheel camper. Features you'll need to get started, except for the water and fish, include two slide -outs, basement, full -size bathroom, and a $30.00. Please call (607) 277 -6462, or e-mail queen -sized bed. Excellent condition. Must sell due to health rakoon88(a?vahoo.com. reasons. $11,000.00, complete with hitch. Please call (607) 898- 5196. FOR SALE — Dining room table, 4 chairs, dry sink, and 2- FOR SALE - 1995 Mercury Mystique GS 166K $1,200. 6 cyl, 5 piece hutch, dark wood, and in good condition, $300.00. speed, traction control, 4 wheel disc anti -lock brakes air, cruise, Please call (607) 257 -5483. sun roof. MPG 21 city, 29 highway. Please call (607)423-2684. FOR SALE — Sheep: WANTED — 5 cubic foot chest freezer, in good condition. 1 Corriedale black ram, 17 months old, $130.00. Please call (607) 898 -2031. 1 Corriedale white ewe, 17 months old, $100.00. Please call (607) 227 -2771. WANTED — To buy — a ping pong table to a good home. Please call Jami, at (607) 347 -4427. FOR SALE — Serta twin mattress in good condition, $50.00. AB Lounge 2, only used a few times, $75.00. WANTED — VCR with remote, in good working condition. Please call (607) 227 -2771. Please call (607) 838 -3748, evenings. FOR SALE - 27" Phillips TV w /stand, $300.00. Hook up Forward clasiffed ads to Geri Lockwood of the Highnxiy Division to cable or satellite w/o need for converter box in 02/09! glockaaodatomakars- co.org Please call (607) 342 -1035. Corridors is printed on 30% recycled paper. 711E CORRIDCRS TEAM 7 Managing Editor Maureen Reynolds, County Clerk's Office Editorial Staff Ger Lockwood, Highway Linnett Short, SW Management Division Katrina Schickel, COFA 111: t. Classifieds Editor - Geri Lockwood OA% �� Multicultural Editor— S h Moodie, Personnel �� Advising Editor, Page Layout ayout �� Marcia Lynch, Public Information Contributors All County Employees and Retirees Interested in joining the Corridors team? Contact Maureen at 274 -5431 or mreynolds©tompkins- co.org