Focus Macomb - June 2024

Message from Mark

Mark Hackel

Welcome to the latest edition of Focus Macomb, a newsletter with all the latest county news and information. I’ll keep this message brief and let you get right to the feature stories, but first, I’d like to share a few of the events I was thrilled to attend these last few weeks. The organizers of these gatherings are incredible community partners, and I’m honored to share this update with you all. 

In early May, I joined the Area 14 Special Olympics celebration, where Robert G. Lutz School students kicked off the games by leading everyone in the national anthem. It was a beautiful and sunny Macomb County day for all the athletes who followed the event motto: "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” I was so inspired by all the participants and volunteers. It really was a wonderful day. 

I also got to team up with Macomb Community Action for its annual Walk for Warmth event. Together with county employees, supporters and volunteers, we walked to raise funds that help vulnerable individuals and families in Macomb County by covering heating expenses and repairs during the colder months. I'd like to thank everyone who contributed to this year's event and share a special thank you to Genisys Credit Union for its generous donation that will help ensure local residents stay warm in their homes throughout the winter season. 

Earlier this month, the Macomb County skies were graced with some extreme flying entertainment during the 2024 Selfridge Open House & Air Show. It was great to see many of you at this well-attended event. A couple of the highlights for me were watching the famous Thunderbirds perform and a special appearance by the Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, which has epitomized a generation of United States Air Force air power!

All this to say, we really have a fantastic community, where people help and support one another. I truly am proud to call Macomb my home. 

Before I sign off, I’ve got to mention that it’s summer in Macomb County, which means there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun. You can go to a concert at Freedom Hill, or grab a scoop of ice cream at a local shop or parlor. There are also fireworks shows taking place all season long and plenty of places to dine along the water. Still looking for something fun? Check out www.makemacombyourhome.com for ideas and inspiration, and find us on Facebook. We even have a special events page with all the details and information you need to attend local fairs, gatherings, and more. I hope all these resources help you enjoy summer in Macomb County. I know I will.

Thank you and take care.

Mark

Projects announced for Macomb County Department of Roads Pavement Preservation Program

Road Work Ahead sign and tandem truck within a work zone.

The Macomb County Department of Roads (MCDR) announced plans for preventative maintenance and repair work as part of the agency’s annual asphalt and concrete pavement preservation program (PPP), which includes work on 36 primary and local roadways throughout the county.

“The Department of Roads uses a full mix of comprehensive maintenance strategies and makes data-driven investments to enhance the quality and longevity of our roadways,” said Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel. “The pavement preservation program reflects our commitment to delivering cost-effective and sustainable solutions for the motoring public."

The PPP uses a mix of preventative maintenance and rehabilitation solutions best suited for each situation including asphalt and concrete repairs, crack sealing, chip sealing, and resurfacing measures. The program is 100% county funded and projects are selected based on data, conditions, and community needs.

“Performing preventative maintenance work on roads that are in good to fair condition is a strategic and cost-effective way to improve and extend the service life of our roadways,” said MCDR Director Bryan Santo. “Identifying and addressing minor issues before they turn into significant concerns reduces the need for reconstruction work and the high costs associated with major projects.”

The schedules for individual PPP projects will vary based on location. Projects are typically completed within three weeks of starting and work is weather dependent. During PPP work, roads will remain open to through traffic with intermittent lane closures during construction and flagging operations to stop traffic when necessary. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to seek alternate routes when possible. All PPP projects are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Click here for a list of planned 2024 projects.

Emergency Management releases tips for Lightning Safety Awareness Week

Thunder and lightning image - Emergency Management

With the arrival of summer and hot temperatures comes the increased possibility of severe storms and dangerous weather conditions. One specific concern this season is lightning, which is why Macomb County Emergency Management is marking National Lightning Safety Awareness week now through June 29.

National Lightning Safety Awareness Week started in 2001 to call attention to lightning being an underrated killer. Since then, U.S. lightning fatalities have dropped from about 55 per year to less than 30. And while we have seen a downward trend in lightning deaths over the years, hundreds of people are still seriously injured while partaking in these activities:

  • Fishing
  • Being at the beach
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Farming

It is therefore imperative that the public practice the following recommendations.

If you are planning an outside activity:

  • Have a lightning safety plan.
  • Know where you’ll go for safety and how long it will take you to get there.
  • Check the weather forecast before heading out.
  • If thunderstorms are predicted, consider canceling or postponing the activity.
  • While outside, monitor the weather, and react quickly to changing weather conditions.
  • If the sky looks threatening or you hear thunder (even a distant rumble) get to a safe place immediately. Don’t ignore any signs of a developing or approaching storm.
  • Remain inside for 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder.


Additionally, many lightning injuries occur inside. Therefore, while inside:

  • Do not touch anything that is plugged into an electrical outlet.
  • Avoid all plumbing including sinks, showers, and tubs.
  • Stay off corded phones. Cell phones and cordless phones are safe.
  • Keep away from outside doors and windows.
  • Do not lie on a garage floor.


Macomb County Emergency Management encourages you to learn more about lightning and lightning safety. Find additional details: http://lightningsafetycouncil.org/LSC-LSAW.html

 

Fireworks and pets: A message from Macomb County Animal Control

Easing your pet's Fourth of July Stress

With summer having officially started, let’s talk about heat and fireworks. 

Extreme heat is dangerous for people and their pets. It’s important to remember to bring your pets inside whenever possible.

Dehydration is also a concern, so please ensure they have plenty of water, and protect their paws from hot asphalt (we use generous amounts of Paw Pad Shield when taking our animals out and about!). Also, never leave your pets in a hot car. Cars can overheat even when a window has been left cracked open an inch or two, and leaving your pet inside a car for only a few seconds is still enough to cause them harm. 

We do not recommend taking pets to fireworks displays, either. Many animals find them frightening and will panic, even in familiar environments. More dogs go missing on the Fourth of July than any other day because even the bravest animals can panic and run.

For more tips and updates from Macomb County Animal Control, please visit our website or follow us on social media. 

 

Macomb County Health Department and Center Line High School team up to create positive Mental Health Matters posters

The Macomb County Health Department in partnership with psychology students at the Center Line High School (CLHS) Health and Human Services Academy recently completed a collaborative project that resulted in the development of posters and messaging that promote positive behavioral health.

Students in the CLHS psychology classes worked individually or in small groups to create adolescent-focused behavioral health images and messages centered on reducing stigma and encouraging youth to seek help with mental health concerns or substance use. More than 25 projects were submitted, and four projects were selected to be published in print and social media.

The poster project aligns with Healthy Macomb’s recently published 2024-2028 Community Health Improvement Plan in which behavioral health was identified as a priority area. Healthy Macomb is a partnership between the Macomb County Health Department and more than 25 organizations, agencies, and community members dedicated to identifying and creating solutions that address health concerns in Macomb County. A key driver for the Community Health Improvement Plan is the Community Health Assessment which identifies the most prevalent health issues and highlights what community members feel are the most pressing health, wellness, and socioeconomic needs in their community.

“Our assessment was able to capture the voices of more than 6,500 adults through surveys and outreach activities to gather input from county residents,” said Maria Swiatkowski, division director, Community Health Planning and Promotion at the Macomb County Health Department. “However, youth have historically been under-represented in the assessment and engagement process. In our 2023 assessment cycle we were able to escalate the involvement of youth, and concerns about mental health was a common theme. Getting students involved in the design and development of behavioral health messages allows them to be a part of positive change we are looking to promote through the Community Health Improvement Plan.”

“Thanks to the invaluable support of the health department, students at the academy have been able to participate in an engaging, compelling project,” said Christine Akroush, Academy Coach at Center Line High School. “This project not only enhances their understanding of behavioral health issues but also empowers them to seek out and make meaningful contributions in their community.”

Posters selected for publishing and use in social media, along with the names of the Center Line High School Health and Human Services Academy students who designed them include:

  • “Speak Up”: Samiat Hasan

  • “54Y 50METHING”: Arienna Young and Miles Waugh

  • “7:45 Nevaeh”: Jaclyn Kupraszewicz

  • “Don’t Smoke Your Fruits”: Nik Ferrin and Trent Zielinski

For more information on Healthy Macomb and the Community Health Improvement Plan workgroups, or to download assessment reports and findings please visit www.macombgov.org/CHA .  

  

Best of the Zest Macomb County food pitch competition offers chance to win prizes

Young woman holding a tray of cupcakes, pop cans in a production line, treats being made, Best of the Zest image

The deadline to enter the Best of the Zest Food Pitch Competition is approaching soon! Small Macomb County packaged food and beverage businesses must submit their applications by 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 25 for a chance to win a share of more than $30,000 in grant funding or services.

The pitch competition will take place Aug. 22 at Velocity in Sterling Heights from 9 a.m.- noon. The goal is to help small businesses within Macomb County access services through our various partners to help their established businesses flourish.

To apply for the competition and see eligibility requirements, please visit the website. Note that any missing documents could result in disqualification.

The finalists will be allowed to present a five-minute “pitch,” which will be followed by a five-minute Q&A between the judges and the participant. Winners will be announced Aug. 23.

Seven winners will be selected and will be competing for grants and services that can be used on marketing, packaging, labeling and testing services, counseling and small business programming. The prizes are offered through MCPED and our partners, including Macomb Community College, MSU Center for Regional Food Systems, MSU Product Center, Pure Michigan Business Connect, Taste the Local Difference and Velocity. The support services that a business may receive are subject to change based on individual business needs.

Questions about the competition can be directed to MCPED Economic Development Specialist Emerson Krolewski at emerson.krolewski@macombgov.org or call 586-942-0913.

Community Food Bank of Macomb County collects over 126,000 pounds of food to support Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

canned food being organized at a food drive

The Community Food Bank of Macomb County today announced that 126,384 pounds of non-perishable food was collected by local postal workers and volunteers in support of the 32nd Annual Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive that was held on May 11. Food donations will be distributed to those in need through the Community Food Bank of Macomb County’s network of over 50 food pantries and hunger related organizations.

"With the support of our community, we collected an incredible amount of food through local post offices that will directly benefit the Community Food Bank of Macomb County," said County Executive Mark Hackel. "Every donation helps support our neighbors. This achievement is a true testament to the generosity and commitment of all who contributed and demonstrates the important impact we can make when we come together for a common cause."

Food collected during the Stamp Out Hunger campaign provides emergency food supplies for thousands of families and individuals, including veterans, seniors, children and the homeless. All donations that were collected in Macomb County will be distributed in Macomb County.

“We’re proud to be able to support the Letter Carrier’s Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive," said Andrew Cox, director/health officer, Macomb County Health and Community Services. “This collection helps provide much-needed assistance to people who can really use the help.”

“We know that food costs are rising for everyone, and as a result, demand for food from food banks has increased,” said Linda Azar, division director, Macomb Community Action Children and Family Services. “Food collected during this year’s campaign provides a critical boost to the inventories that are available through county pantries.”

Since its inception in 1993, almost 2 billion pounds of non-perishable food has been collected to help restock the shelves of food banks, soup kitchens and pantries throughout America and here in Macomb County.

To learn more about the Community Food Bank of Macomb County and its work in the county, visit https://www.macombgov.org/departments/macomb-community-action/macomb-food-program .

Macomb County seeking Manufacturing Day host sites and sponsors

MFG Day Week 2023

The 11th annual Manufacturing Day is coming in late September, but now is the time to sign up as a host site or sponsor.

The national MFG Day event is Friday, Oct. 4. But Macomb County, as one of the largest participants in the country, will for the third time use the whole week to celebrate. The event will run from Sept. 30-Oct. 4. Local high school students will have the opportunity to tour advanced manufacturing facilities and learn more about the many interesting and well-paying jobs the industry has to offer.

Macomb County Planning and Economic Development (MCPED) is seeking companies interested in serving as host sites. Hosting organizations can pick their day and time to participate, which gives them a chance to promote their companies and interact with young people interested in manufacturing careers. Those chaperoned students receive a 90-120 minute guided tour that includes discussions with company leaders and employees.

MFG Day sponsors help offset costs of the event. And in return, sponsors receive recognition and exposure for their involvement. Three sponsorship levels are available. They include: All-In ($3,000); Big Supporter ($2,000); and Contributor ($1,000). Please note that there is a limited number of sponsorship opportunities available.

Organizations wishing to participate in the 2024 celebration, either as a host or a sponsor, should visit macombbusiness.com as soon as possible to learn more.

MSU Extension-Macomb County announces the annual opening of its plant and pest diagnostics lab

Solving the mystery of struggling plants and identifying unknown pests or insects are among many of the common questions posed by Macomb County residents to the local Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) office located in Clinton Township, Michigan. And recently, MSUE announced it is ready to answer those questions and solve those mysteries with the annual opening of its diagnostics lab to Macomb County residents.

Now through mid-September, MSUE is offering Macomb County residents insect and plant diagnostic services for a nominal fee of just $7.  These services will be available most Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the MSUE office located at 21885 Dunham Road, Suite 12, Clinton Township, Michigan 48036.

MSUE’s consumer horticulture educator and entomologist David Lowenstein, as well as trained Extension Master Gardener volunteers, will be available during this time to help Macomb County residents identify insects and leaf damage as well as provide answers to general gardening questions. The diagnostics lab is well-equipped, and most samples brought into the office will be able to be identified and diagnosed the same day. “We’re very excited to have this service available in Macomb County” states Andrew Cox, director of Health and Community Services for Macomb County which oversees the MSU Extension department. “Many of the county’s residents are avid gardeners and this service will help to keep their gardens, trees and landscaping looking great.”

Residents who are unable to visit the office during the times mentioned above are encouraged to call 586-469-6440 to make alternate drop off arrangements. Additionally, the Michigan State University Extension office in East Lansing, Michigan has a variety of options available to help gardeners find answers to their lawn and garden questions such as the Ask Extension online portal, the migarden.msu.edu website and its toll-free Lawn and Garden Hotline at 888-678-3464 which is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. – Noon.

 David Lowenstein, Ph.D., is a consumer horticulture extension educator based out of Clinton Township, Michigan. Before joining MSUE, he worked with managing invasive species, integrated pest management (IPM) of vegetable crops, and pests and pollinators in urban agriculture. He has a background in IPM and entomology with a B.A. in Biology from CUNY-Lehman, a M.S. in Entomology from the University of Wisconsin and a Ph.D. in Ecology/Evolution from the University of Illinois-Chicago.

To learn more about MSU Extension, visit https://www.canr.msu.edu/outreach/.

Save the dates

Sprint and Splash
 
Sprint and Splash

Register by July 12

 

 

senior fun festival information

 

Senior Fun Festival

Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities available.

 

 

For more happenings throughout the county, visit Make Macomb Your Home events and stay up to date with the Make Macomb Your Home official Facebook page.

Macomb in the news

Selfridge Military Air Museum launching new flight program for students

Lake St. Clair's Summer Discovery Cruise Program sets sail for an educational journey in July 2024

Where to catch dazzling fireworks in metro Detroit this summer

Auto supplier ZF launches $62M expansion in Macomb County

Macomb County host sites and sponsors needed for one of the country’s largest MFG Day events

 

Blog log

Mother Nature’s wrath: Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac

Firework displays in Macomb County this summer

 

Department:Planning and Economic Development
FocusMacomb