Page Kent Connections June 2007

A Newsletter Published by Kent County Levy Court for its Employees June 2007 Employee Levy Court of the Month shows thanks Michael Berry

The Kent County Employee Council has selected MI- with picnic CHAEL “Mike” T. BERRY from the Department of By Allan Kujala, Personnel Director Public Works as the June 2007 Employee of the Month. The sincere appreciation and high regard Levy Mike, a Kent County employee since July Court Commissioners 2002, is a Maintenance Mechanic II in the Division of hold for each employee is Wastewater Facilities responsible for maintaining and demonstrated in a num- servicing the wastewater collection system, repairs ber of ways throughout and preventative maintenance of various sewer the year by competitive pumping stations, and is also available to help out salary and benefits, indi- with treatment plant maintenance projects. vidual recognition, em- According to supervisors, Mike is a very dedi- ployee service awards, cated employee who is always willing to lend a help- employee Christmas ing hand. No matter what time of the day, how diffi- luncheon and the annual cult, or how tedious the job may be, Mike is always Employee Appreciation Picnic scheduled for Wednes- there to assist with the task. He frequently goes the day, June 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the park extra mile to get the job done even if this means can- area located north of the Administrative Complex celing personal activities after work hours to help building. The rain date is Thursday, June 21. meet County deadlines. The County employee-only event is organ- Mike is regularly praised for his willingness ized by the Employee Council and features free hot- to take on any new mission with diligence. In fact, dogs, hamburgers, fried chicken, with potato salad, he is currently studying to be a Fire Extinguisher baked beans, fruit and dessert. Iced tea, lemonade Safety Inspector for the County. and bottled water will also be provided. Co-workers Congratulations Mike on a job well done! serve as “Grill Masters” (or Mistresses) to help with the cooking, and volunteers are being sought to help COMING NEXT MONTH: set up beforehand and clean up afterwards. > What’s now effective with the new FY08 budget? This year’s event harkens the return of the > How did the County do at Leg. Hall this year? dunking booth, where employees can attempt to > Who can receive a Kent County medal? dunk their favorite or least favorite co-worker, super- IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUE: visor, or even a Commissioner. Cost is $1.00 for three 16 - A’s to Your Q’s 4 - Mark Your Calendar baseballs, or $2.00 for three attempts with a basket- 4 - Birthdays 4 - On The Move ball. Funds collected will benefit the annual Em- 6 - From The Stacks 6 - Recipe of the Month ployee Holiday Dinner/Dance. Kent Connections is published for the employees and retirees of Kent The picnic is always a popular activity for County Levy Court using Microsoft Publisher® & Microsoft Power- employees, but County business continues to operate Point®. Comments, suggestions and story ideas should be addressed as staff members work in shifts to cover offices. to: Kent County Personnel Office, 555 Bay Road, Dover, DE 19901, If you would like to volunteer to flip ham- or given to Allan Kujala, Sophie Dear, Cathleen McLean, or Carissa McLoughlin. Or, call the Personnel Office at 744-2310. burgers, please call any Employee Council member. Page 2 Kent Connections June 2007 Welcome to EOM Levy Court! INSIGHT Name: ADAM S. BRADFORD Name: MICHAEL BERRY Job: WWF Plant Operator I Job: Maintenance Mechanic II Date hired: April 30, 2007 Years with the County: Al- Education: High school graduate; most 5 attending Del Tech Education: Chincoteague High, Chincoteague, VA What I like most about my new What I like most about my job: Something dif- job: The opportunity to learn the ferent every day process of wastewater treatment What I’d most like to change: Nothing Greatest accomplishment: My Family: Wife, Susan; daughter, Tammy; two grand- family and the completion of six sons, Mike and Brandon years of military service After work I enjoy: Relaxing, riding my motorcy- Greatest challenge: Receiving a cle college degree Favorite old movie: M*A*S*H Future goals: To own my own home Favorite TV show: Two and a Half Men Person/event that most inspired me in my Favorite TV show as a child: MASH career: Jerry Williams (Department head at the Del Favorite sports: Baseball, golf, football Tech Environmental Center) Favorite meal: Steak, seafood If I had it to do over, I would have done this Favorite music: All but Rap differently: Listen to my mother Favorite Kent County restaurants: Roadhouse, I’m most relaxed and happy when I’m doing Lone Star this: Hangin’ with my family and in-laws Favorite Kent County event: Dover Downs race Family: 12-year-old daughter, Miranda; 2-year-old People (living or dead) I’d invite to dinner: son, Brendon; girlfriend, Jennifer Amell My parents, and Elvis Presley for my wife Most recent movie enjoyed: Saw III I’m most proud of: How I live my life. Favorite TV show: LOST Pet peeve: Road rage Favorite sport: Football Motto: Be honest and straightforward Favorite meal: Pizza If I’ve learned one thing in life, it’s: Enjoy life Favorite music: 70’s era Rock Who has had the most impact on my life: Favorite saying or slogan: Git ‘r’ done Grandparents Who has had the greatest impact on my life: A dream I have is to: Retire and play golf Family If I won a million dollars, I would: Retire and A dream I have is: Home ownership play golf If I won a million dollars I would: Travel You’d be surprised to learn that I: Was in the The most adventurous things I’ve ever done Merchant Marine is: Bungie jumping The most adventurous thing I’ve ever done Three words that describe me: Passionate, is: Join the volunteer fire service – 23 years with the dedicated, motivated **1703** Frederica Volunteer Fire Company! Three words that describe me: Short, honest,

2007 GRADUATION ACCOLADES straightforward **6334** Jessica Bloodsworth, daughter of BOB BLOODSWORTH, graduating in top 7% of her class In Memoriam from Lake Forest High School on June 1st. She will at-

tend Delaware Tech in the fall majoring in Photo Com- JOHN F. “JACK” NAVERT, a County retiree, passed munication. away on May 21, 2007. Jack was a Code Enforce- Brian Salgado, grandson of KAY BROWN, will ment Officer for 11 years, retiring in 2000. (Continued on Page 6) Page 3 Kent Connections June 2007 Higher dental/ Students “mock” lower health costs deducted in June Levy Court on By Allan Kujala, Personnel Director With Open Enrollment pretty much completed, all zoning decisions By Bret Scott, Public Information Officer the desired changes to dependent health care, Levy Court Commissioners welcomed 14 area high dental coverage, supple- school juniors last month for mental life insurance, etc. Kent County’s annual Youth will become effective July in Government Day. During 1, but since health and the annual event, the stu- dental insurance premi- dents get a comprehensive ums are charged one perspective of the work the month in advance, the bill comes due in June. Levy Court performs on a Employees retaining current levels of de- daily basis. The students are part of the Girls State pendent health care coverage will see premium re- and Boys State Delegation. ductions due to the new 6.6% premium reduction Students spent the morning participating in a offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware this mock Levy Court meeting where they were chal- fiscal year. Those employees with dental coverage for lenged in real life scenarios including land use and dependents, however, will see a $5 per month in- zoning ordinances. crease. The monthly premium for dependent dental This year’s group approved a rezoning to insurance coverage increased from $26 to $31, de- convert a Brownfield to a skate board park, and re- ducted in two equal $15.50 payments each month. jected a proposed rezoning to accommodate a huge Premiums for additional supplemental life planned unit development near Hartly containing a insurance or AFLAC coverages will be deducted be- computer company’s East Coast headquarters and ginning in July. Internal Revenue Service rules only employee housing. permit changes to medical/dental and AFLAC during Commissioners ALLAN F. ANGEL, P. open enrollment, except for qualifying events. Con- BROOKS BANTA, HAROLD K. BRODE, and BRADLEY tributions to the 457 deferred compensation plan can S. EABY were on hand to coach the students on the begin or be adjusted at any time. dais and provide input into the working of the Levy The new monthly rates for dependent health Court, while County Administrator MIKE PETIT de insurance are effective July 1, 2007, but deducted MANGE served as presiding officer. Kent County staff from pay beginning June 1 as illustrated below. including HARRY VANSANT, MARY ELLEN GRAY, For more information about County benefits, ALLAN KUJALA, MIKE WARD, KELLY CRUMPLEY, contact the Personnel Office at 744-2310. BRENT MOLLOHAN, LORETTA WOOTTEN, and JER- FY08 DEPENDENT RATES SPOUSE CHILD(REN) FAMILY EMY SHEPPARD assisted with both the preparation and execution of this year’s event. PREFERRED (PPO) $289.48 $133.61 $400.81 The students also traveled to Dover Downs for an inside peek at what the County’s Public Safety HMO HIGH (HMO) $248.15 $104.86 $350.50 staff does during NASCAR races. The day closed out with a mock wedding HMO LOW (HMO) $215.09 $81.86 $310.26 ceremony performed by Clerk of the Peace LORETTA WOOTTEN between two of the students and even MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT $109.13 featured a traditional wedding cake. President Banta commented “These young INDIVIDUAL EMPLOYEE PPO HMO HIGH HMO LOW people were the brightest yet to participate. They asked intelligent questions and truly understood the County pays 100% of Cost $556.68 $511.76 $475.83 legislative process.” Page 4 Kent Connections June 2007

M On the Move. . . COUNTY Compiled by Carissa McLoughlin, Personnel Technician II New Hires 05/20/07 SARAH KEIFER, Director of Planning Ser- BIRTHDAYS vices, Grade 19, Planning Services JUNE Promotion 03 Barbara Schroeder, Finance 05/07/07 DARIN JONES, Parks Worker I, Grade 5 to 03 Danielle Lamborn, Public Works/Engineering Parks Worker II, Grade 6, Community Services/Parks 09 Sherry Bourgeois, Planning Services/Planning 05/14/07 MICHAEL EVANS, Plant Operator III, 10 David Nesbit II, Public Safety/EMS Grade 8 to Plant Operator IV, Grade 9, Public Works/ 11 Kimberly Dixon, Tax Office Wastewater Facilities 13 Ruth Semans, Deputy Register of Wills Transfer 15 P. Brooks Banta, Levy Court President 05/07/07 WILLIAM HALL, Heavy Equipment Opera- 18 Kathryn Gooden, Assessment Office tor, Grade 8, to Maintenance Mechanic II, Grade 8, 21 Barbara Stough, Finance Public Works/Wastewater Facilities 22 Michael Evans, Public Works/WWF Milestones 22 Mike Rigby, Community Services/Parks 05/29/1997 ELLEN MITCHELL, Property Specialist II, 23 June Gladden, Assessment Office Assessment Office - 10 years 23 Richard Baker, Public Works/WWF 05/01/2002 EVELYN JOPP, Clerk, Administration - 5 23 Catherine Brown, Tax Office years 25 Robert Savage, Public Works/WWF 05/06/2002 KRISTOPHER CONNELLY, Planner II, 27 Gina Glanden, Planning Services/Insp. & Enforce. Planning Services/Planning - 5 years 28 Joyce Melvin, Receiver of Taxes 05/06/2002 JAMES NEWTON, Environmental Pro- 29 Joe O’Connell, Planning Services/Insp. & Enforce gram Manager, Public Works/Engineering - 5 years 30 Summer Desaulniers, Public Safety/EMS Retirement JULY 05/31/07 - ROBERT McLEOD, County Administra- 01 Roland Carter, Public Works/Facilities Mgmt. tor, Administration - 17 years 01 Angela Wise, Comptroller’s Office 03 Kristopher Connelly, Planning Services/Planning MARK YOUR 05 Wallace Wootten, Public Works/WWF 05 Lisa Schlauch, Public Safety/EMS CALENDAR 06 Pat Piazza, Public Works/Facilities Mgmt. 07 Shawn O’Toole, Public Works/WWF June 4, 2007 - Bank at Work credit union 07 Lori Short, Planning Services/Insp. & Enforce. benefit: Meet with a Del-One representative from 10 Jim Welsh, Assessment Office 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. in the rotunda of the Adminis- 11 Lisa Cooper, Tax Office trative Complex 14 Sharon Bean, Assessment Office June 6, 2007 - Blood Pressure Checks at the 15 David Grygo, Public Safety/Emergency Comm. Wastewater Facility from 2:00-4:00 p.m. 16 Jeff Outten, Public Safety/Emergency Comm. 17 Anita Lloyd, Planning Services/Planning June 6, 2007 - AFLAC Representative, Eunice 17 Teresa Carter, Finance Craig, will be scheduling individual meetings with 19 Michael Harrington, Public Works/WWF employees who currently have AFLAC and employees 19 Robert Lankford, Jr., Public Works/WWF who may be interested in a plan. Meetings will be 23 Charlotte Lindquist, Sheriff Office held in room 221 of the Administrative Complex from 23 Scott Tanner, Planning Services/Insp. & Enforce. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Call the Personnel Office to make 25 Wayne McCarty, Community Services/Parks your appointment. 25 William Vincent, Public Works/WWF June 12, 2007 - A representative from Volun- 25 Cindy Grygo, Public Safety/EMS tary Benefit Services will be available to meet with 26 Marti Stansbury, Planning Services/Insp. & Enf. employees by appointment only in room 221 on June 27 Dick Dempsey, Public Safety/Emergency Comm. 12 in the Administrative Complex. 28 Marvin Parker, Public Works/WWF 29 Ruby Farmer, Tax Office June 13, 2007 - Blood Pressure Checks at An- 31 Stella Padilla, Public Works/WWF (Continued on Page 14) 31 Wade Paugh, Planning Services/Planning Page 5 Kent Connections June 2007 Medical Trust Fund available for uncovered costs By Allan Kujala, Personnel Director Many years ago when a new health plan lacked several local medical pro- viders, Levy Court approved Policy 2-12 to address sev- eral medical/dental insur- ance shortcomings. The policy clearly defines who is eligible for Area students display insurance coverage, criteria for medical cash back in- centives, dependent cover- age, etc. It also established artwork in Co. Complex a method for appealing medical coverage denials, By Carissa McLoughlin, Personnel Technician II lack of coverage, and hardships. Levy Court subsequently amended the policy spiring Picasso’s and Van Gogh’s from area high A to provide a method for establishing procedures. The schools recently brightened up the Kent County Ad- Employee Insurance Appeals Committee has formally ministrative Complex by displaying their modern-day adopted rules to provide clear guidance in its deci- masterpieces. sion making process. The main corridor of the Complex provides a Among other things, the procedure requires blank canvas upon which young artists in the area appeals to be filed within one year of the service date can show off their talent for the public to enjoy. The or within 60 days of final denial of coverage for a rotating art exhibit livens up the walls adjacent to the medical claim. In addition, the rules provide for a Register of Wills and Planning Services offices. maximum annual reimbursement of $3,000. Former County Administrator, Robert S. In the past, the reimbursement program has McLeod, saw the artwork display as an important been largely utilized by retired employees with the opportunity to work with the Delaware Arts Council County’s Medicare supplement. The former Medigap to support the Arts in Kent County. The initiative is coverage limited prescription payments to an annual being coordinated by Jennifer Boland, Art Teacher at maximum of $2,000. The Blue Cross Medicfill pre- Campus Community School. scription co-payments are 10/20/40, which is higher Ms. Boland is working in coordination with than active employees at 10/15/35, so the plan can other Kent County art teachers to encourage students reimburse Medicare eligible retirees the difference to display their art assignments. The variety of art- upon submission of receipts. Blue Cross does not work displayed may portray a particular theme or have a annual maximum Rx benefit. technique that the students have learned. All Kent The policy permits the Personnel Director to County school districts will participate and artwork approve the first $500 of reimburseable costs, with will be displayed continuously on a rotating quarterly the excess requiring approval from the Employee In- basis throughout this year and next. surance Appeals Committee composed of the Levy Capital School District has been chosen to Court Administration Committee Chairman, County display art work for the summer months. The follow- Administrator, Finance Director, Personnel Director, ing artist’s currently have their art on display: Cam- and a member of Employee Council, which meets as th pus Community School – Emma McGinnis (4 grade) needed. th & Kayla Stronko (5 grade); Campus Community If you have questions about Policy 2-12, con- th High School – Dominique Harmon (7 grade), Vanes- tact the Personnel Office at 744-2310. (Continued on Page 14) Page 6 Kent Connections June 2007 FROM Recipe of the Month Z THE By Sophie F. Dear, Personnel Technician II

STACKS RED WINE-ROSEMARY GRILLED FLANK STEAK WITH GRILLED By Kristi Rinkenberg, Library Technician MIXED VEGETABLES

Danger in the Shadows Steak: By: Dee Henderson 3 cups dry red wine 4 small sprigs fresh rosemary Danger in the Shadows is actually a prequel to the 4 sprigs fresh thyme O’Malley series by Dee Henderson. It tells the story of 2 bay leaves Sara Walsh and Adam Black. 1 small onion, coarsely chopped Sara is in the witness protection program and 4 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped is constantly being moved from place to place. She 3 tablespoons olive oil lives in a secure world to keep her from the stalker 1 (2 pound) flank steak that has been trying to kill her since she was six years Salt and freshly ground black pepper old. There are many boundaries she has to deal with on a daily basis that she wants to escape, but until her To prepare the steak: Place wine, rosemary, bay stalker is caught, she has no real option. leaves, thyme, onion, garlic and olive oil in a large Adam Black is a retired professional football shallow baking dish and stir to combine. Add steak player. He attracts a lot of attention and publicity be- and turn to coat both sides. Cover and refrigerate at cause of his former profession. He is always in the least 4 hours or overnight. Heat the grill, remove public eye, which is something Sara is supposed to meat from marinade, season both sides with salt and avoid. Her heart, however, has other ideas. After a pepper to taste and grill 6 to 7 minutes on each side. chance meeting with Adam, she starts falling in love. Let sit 5 minutes and slice against the grain. Though she fights it and explains why she needs to remain invisible, Adam won’t give up on what Grilled Vegetable Platter: could be, and eventually Sara’s greatest fear becomes a 2 large ears fresh corn, husked and cut cross- reality. Her stalker finds her again, and they are both wise into 4 pieces in more danger than they have ever faced. 1 small eggplant, cut crosswise into ½” thick This book is the perfect combination of ro- rounds mance and suspense; keeping you on your toes the 1 large Vidalia onion, cut into ¾” thick wedges entire time you are reading. It’s practically impossible 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and quartered to put down once you start. I would recommend any 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and of Dee Henderson’s other books for the same reason. quartered She has an amazing way of getting the reader involved 1 large zucchini, quartered in the character’s lives, which, in my opinion, is what 12 asparagus spears, trimmed makes a book exceptional. **7333** Olive oil Salt and freshly ground pepper 2007 GRADUATION ACCOLADES Finely chopped parsley and chives (Continued from page 2) receives his Kindergarten Diploma on May 30th from Preheat grill. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and Allen Frear Elementary School. season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste. Travis Lee Betterton, grandson of CONNIE and Grill all the vegetables until just cooked through. Raymond BUTLER, graduated from Clay High School in Arrange on a platter and sprinkle with herbs. Green Cove Springs, FL on May 18th. Craig Carter, son of ROLAND and Loriann Difficulty: Easy CARTER, graduated in May from home schooling and Serves: 4 was accepted to attend Nascar Tech Institute in Moores- ville, N.C. in November 2007. Recipe courtesy Bobby Flay, Food Network TV 1999 (Continued on Page 9) Page 7 Kent Connections June 2007 Dover Police to demo Take precautions to active listening & verbal judo skills avoid disaster at By Sophie F. Dear, Personnel Technician II summer cook-out In last month’s training session, the DVD for By David Mick, EMS Operations Support Officer “Violence on the Job” included advice about Recently I visited the web-page of the National Fire further training in non- Protection Association (NFPA) threatening response and (www.nfpa.org). This is a great place conflict resolution. Atten- to find fire and home safety tips and dees at last month’s train- even offers seasonal topics that fit ing agreed that further with real life activities. training would certainly One of the “hot topics” this be useful, so I contacted month focuses on the national pas- the Planning and Training Unit of Dover Police De- time of outdoor grilling. Here are partment. a few highlights. You can see the Sergeant William Kent and Master Corporal entire article if you go to the web- Kelli Burns from Dover Police Department will pre- site. sent this month’s voluntary training sessions with • Safe distance: from the house, information regarding active listening and verbal siding, eaves, and overhanging tree branches. And judo on Thursday, June 19, at 9:00 a.m. and from KIDS – create a minimum three-foot “kid-free 3:30 p.m. in room 220 A/B in the Kent County Ad- zone”. ministrative Complex. • Outdoor grills are for use outdoors. Anywhere To sign up for training, please contact me in else like at the edge of the garage on a rainy day Personnel at 744-2312, by e-mail (if you have a list), poses the threat of accidental fire and the possibility or in person. If you initially forget to sign up and of toxic smoke and fumes accumulating. wish to attend, or discover that you will be able to • Store your gas grill cylinder(s) outside. Even if attend on the day of the training session -- show up you store the grill itself in the garage or a building, and sign in. disconnect the cylinder and leave it outside. In May, County employees who received • If you smell gas at the grill, turn off the tank credit for attending a “Violence on the Job” training valve. If the leak does not stop, call the fire depart- session were ALBERT BIDDLE, MARY EISENBREY, ment. If you smell gas while cooking, move away and JUNE GLADDEN, KATHY GOODEN, EVELYN JOPP, call the fire department. NFPA does not recommend DIANE LOCKERMAN, GALE MAAS, ELLEN moving the grill. The issue is that if there is enough MITCHELL, DEBBIE PALMER, LINDA PFEIFFER, gas accumulated for you to smell it in an outside envi- SHEILA ROSS, AUDREY STANFORD, ALAN TYSON, ronment, there could be enough gas for a flash fire. and JIM WELSH. Congratulations to GALE MAAS, That kind of fire can cause extreme injury to you and who completed another 15 CEU’s of voluntary train- can do it in an instant. ing and earned another pay increase for it! Please visit the NFPA website if you would Thank you for your continued interest in vol- like more safety information. Have a safe and deli- untary training! cious summer. High Praise n High Praise n Shout out to DALE JONES, CHRISTINA MORTON Kudos to CAROL DILL, Chief Deputy Register of Wills and LORI SHORT, Inspections & Enforcement Divi- and PAT UHEY, Wills Office, for a typed letter from a sion, for a hand written letter from a citizen praising citizen thanking them for their pleasant attitudes and them for their professional and prompt handling of helpfulness. Way to go!! his complaint about high grass near Milford. Yeah!! Page 8 Kent Connections June 2007 EMPLOYEE Tech COUNCIL Talk NEWS By Michele Lapinski, Employee Council Secretary FreeAgent Go

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Em- By Tami Edwards, Systems Technician ployee Appreciation Picnic on Wednesday, June 20 (rain date: June 21). This annual Levy Court- It’s annoying to forget things; the map on a road sponsored event will be held on the grounds of the trip, some articles of clothing for a business trip, or main administration building from 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 worse, your laptop. To most people, leaving your files p.m. The menu will include hamburgers, hot dogs, back home would be nothing short of catastrophic. fried chicken and side salads. Beverages will also be Thankfully, Seagate has figured this out for provided. us, to hopefully prevent it from happening again, or Also this year, the infamous dunking booth just to give you an excuse to leave your laptop at will make its return to the festivities! So don’t forget home this time. to bring a couple or three dollars with you to try Seagate has introduced the FreeAgent Go your luck. It’s all in good fun! hard drive data mover that can run more than 100 The Employee Council is also soliciting Com- applications on any PC without installing or storing missioners, Row Officers, Deputies, Department programs on the host computer. Heads and fellow employees to help with set up, Users can now carry their browsers, favorites, grilling, serving and clean up. We’re also looking for passwords, IM client and contacts, email client, cook- targets . . . err, I mean volunteers for the dunking ies, settings and files in their shirt pocket. During a booth as well. If you would like to lend a hand, session, private information and personalized settings please contact President KATHY PHINNEY. are stored on the FreeAgent Go drive, not on the host Approved dress for the day is “tasteful, sum- computer. Once unplugged, no passwords, files, or mer casual wear.” Collared polo shirts, dress shorts, Web browsing history are left behind on the guest and sundresses are permissible. Flip-flops, cut-offs, computer. gym shorts, logo-bearing t-shirts (except for those It’s all about having your desktop environ- with the Kent County seal), tank/strapless/midriff- ment and latest files with you – when and where you baring and/or spaghetti strap tops, and bathing suits need them. Designed for mobility, the sleek compact (except while in the dunking booth) are not permit- design easily fits into your shirt pocket, briefcase or ted. Also, please remember that offices must remain backpack. open for business during picnic hours. Rotating The FreeAgent Go drive installs using a USB shifts are a great way to maintain customer service cable that’s not only the interface connection, but the and allow everyone a chance to come out and hang power source as well – no additional cords are for a bit and get something to eat. needed. So whether you’re using a computer at In other Council news, MIKE BERRY, Main- work, school, a business center, an Internet café, or a tenance Mechanic II at the Wastewater Treatment library, you have your desktop environment there Facility, was chosen as the Employee of the Month when you need it. for June 2007. In addition to a day off with pay, Can you imagine how it would feel not to Mike will also receive a $100 stipend and be eligible worry about or carry around your laptop on your for the Employee of the Year award which will be next business trip and yet still have all of your vital announced at the Holiday Dinner & Dance in Decem- files and information right in your pocket? With the ber. Congratulations, Mike! FreeAgent Go you can not only carry your files but If you know of a co-worker who has excelled the programs to run them as well. and/or gone above and beyond in the performance FreeAgent Go is not only portable but afford- of their job duties, then nominate them for Employee able as well; it comes in several sizes such as 80Gb of the Month. Nomination forms are available in the ($109.99), 120Gb ($139.99), and 160Gb ($159.99). central mail room and also on the v: drive under FreeAgent Go can turn any computer into your com- forms. Submitted nomination forms are eligible for a puter, now that’s portability. **0610** three-month period and may be resubmitted. Page 9 Kent Connections June 2007 Welcome to VBS representatives on hand June 12 to explain Levy Court! County benefit options Name: GERALD KILGORE By Allan Kujala, Personnel Director Job: WWF Plant Operator I ll employees should have completed their annual Date hired: April 30, 2007 A Education: G.E.D. enrollment for the What I like most about my County’s core employee new job: Location benefits last month. Greatest accomplishment: On June 12, en- Being a husband and father rollment counselors from Greatest challenge: Raising Voluntary Benefits Sys- three sons tems will be available to Person/event that most in- meet with new and inter- spired me in my career: Steve Hudson at King ested employees at the Cole Canning Administrative Complex I’m most relaxed and happy when I’m doing in room 221. The purpose this: Spending time with family and in fellowship of this consultation will be to offer, explain, and en- with my church family roll you in one or more of the supplemental programs Family: Wife, Tina; three sons, Jeremy (13), Marcus VBS offers. (11), and Cody (9) According to provided VBS literature, the Most recent movie enjoyed: Night at the Mu- following coverages are available and better yet, are seum able to be paid through payroll deduction: Favorite TV show: M*A*S*H Interest Sensitive Whole Life Insurance – Favorite sport: Football Imagine a Life Insurance plan with advantages Favorite meal: Anything grilled such as no physical exams or health questions Favorite music: Country/Rock/Blues/some Jazz asked, free-look provision (review your plan Favorite saying or slogan: “Dig that” within a certain period of time and if you’re not Who has had the greatest impact on my life: satisfied return your policy with no charge or My grandfather obligation), guaranteed family options, loan If I won a million dollars I would: Pay off bills privileges, portable protection (should you no and invest for the future longer work for your current employer) and You’d be surprised to learn that I: Have gone more. skydiving Critical Illness Plan – This great benefit pays for The most adventurous things I’ve ever done the following illness (to list a few) heart attack, is: Spent a week in Alabama helping to rebuild after stroke, major organ transplant, and cancer. This Hurricane Katrina policy is also portable. Three words that describe me: Positive, trust- Accident Coverage - Pays a specified amount of worthy, dependable money if you have an accidental injury that re- quires emergency treatment. Family coverage is available. 2007 GRADUATION ACCOLADES A voluntary benefits consultant will be available (Continued from Page 6) to meet with employees who are interested in learn- Dean Cooper II, grandson of retiree JIM COO- ing more about the above plans. The consultant will PER, graduated from Goldey - Beacom College. He meet individually with employees by appointment earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration only. Please call the Personnel Office at 744-2310 to with a concentration in Finance. schedule a time. Brittany Lynn Culver, granddaughter of For more information you can refer to your pay- SOFIA CULVER, graduates on June 6th from Dover roll insert received June 1 and/or stop by the Person- High School. She will attend University of West Virginia nel Office to pick up a kit prior to enrollment (June in the fall to pursue a degree in Pharmacy. 12). (Continued on page 10) Page 10 Kent Connections June 2007 BENEFIT BLURBS By Sophie F. Dear, Personnel Technician II CAT BOX An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a benefit By Cathleen McLean, Payroll Administrator sponsored by the County designed to improve the Camaraderie: personal and professional life of employees and their It Leads to Morale Building eligible dependents. The EAP offers specially trained, Master’s-level intake clinicians to assist you 24 hours Recently a message went out to all employees re- a day, 7 days a week. garding an upcoming event. As a result of that mes- The County provides these services at no cost sage someone felt it necessary to leave an anony- to employees*. All contact with the EAP is completely mous note in the Personnel Office mailbox reminding confidential. Information shared with EAP profession- us that we are a government facility and that we als is protected under confidentiality statutes and should not be having festive events on County time. cannot be shared with your employer without your This sets the stage for my article. consent. In order for a facility to run smoothly the When you call in (1-800-367-3273) an intake employees that work within those walls need to feel clinician will listen to your concerns, help you decide a sense of cohesiveness. As human beings we feel what services would be most helpful, and refer you to the need to express our joys and sorrows by sharing a licensed practitioner if appropriate. As part of the these times with the people we are closest to. Many ClientConnect® program, the intake clinician will call of us spend more hours with the folks we work with and locate a provider in your area who meets any than we do with our biological families. Tradition- specific criteria you might have such as specialty, lan- ally, these events are celebrated by some type of fes- guage capabilities, service location, etc. This simple tivity that includes helping prepare for the event and process eliminates the time-consuming need for you contributions of food. to call a list of providers on your own. An EAP can Camaraderie is defined as “the spirited good- help with alcohol and drug addiction, marriage and will among friends.” Preparation for a festive event family, parenting, relationships, stress management, promotes goodwill among coworkers. Goodwill and anxiety and depression. leads to a sense of morale that has no price tag. The The County’s contract provides you with next constituent that is served with a smile and a three free sessions. If you have a need that may re- kind word benefits greatly from the morale building quire more than three sessions, please coordinate that has taken place within our own walls. with the mental heath carrier within your health in- Like staff birthday parties, and retirement surance plan. By coordinating with your mental parties, this event will have little actual impact on health carrier, hopefully you will only pay the co-pay the workday, but will create much good will. for the fourth and subsequent visits, instead of the entire fee. Services are also available on-line by access- ing their Web site and include a complete collection of information, tools, and resources to support you A Monthly Contest and your eligible dependents. Log in at www.mhneteap.com using KentCounty as your A free movie ticket will be given to the first two em- username (it will be case sensitive). The password is ployees who find the last four digits 8003673273 or 800forease (also case sensitive). of his/her Social Security number in Your Online Services Menu will appear. **2546** the current issue of Kent Connections and contacts the Personnel Office at 2007 GRADUATION ACCOLADES 744-2310. BRUCE CHILLAS of Emer- (Continued from Page 9) gency Medical Services and MARVIN Kimberly Rebecca Dixon, daughter of KIMM MILLMAN of Wastewater Facilities DIXON, graduated May 26th from the University of found their numbers and claimed Delaware. She earned a Bachelor of Arts with a major their movie tickets in May. It’s easy to win a movie in English and a minor in History. ticket - just read Kent Connections. **3639** (Continued on Page 14) Page 11 Kent Connections June 2007 Be careful and have a safe summer

Reprinted from Keep Kids Healthy around any water (lake, pool, ocean, While warmer weather means hours of sun and etc.) without adult fun, it’s an opportunity for both minor and serious supervision (even if he injuries. It’s the most dangerous time of year for kids is a good swimmer); Swimming Safety – The first steps in (5) don’t allow run- keeping kids safe when swimming are adult supervi- ning or rough play around the water; and (6) child- sion and an age-appropriate flotation device. You proof your swimming pool with a fence around your should also be aware of the spread of recreational backyard and a fence (at least four feet high) around water illnesses (RWIs) and their prevention. Healthy the pool, with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Con- swimming behaviors are needed for protection from sider having a phone poolside and learning CPR. RWIs and will help stop germs Most parents understand (or should under- from getting in the pool in the stand, since about 250 kids under age 5 drown in first place. RWIs are spread by swimming pools each year) that kids need some sort swallowing, breathing, or having of floatation device until they are older and have contact with contaminated water learned how to swim well. Which is best? A life from pools, spas, lakes, rivers, or jacket? Will ‘floaties’, an inner tube, swimsuit, or a oceans, and can cause a wide swim vest provide enough protection? Some water variety of symptoms, including diarrhea and skin, parks won’t let you use your ear, respiratory, eye, and wound infections. own floatation device. To be Please don’t swim when you have diarrhea – safe, use a floatation device this is especially important for kids in diapers. Germs that keeps your child from go- can be spread in the water and make people sick. ing under the water, and keeps Please don’t swallow pool water -- try your best to his face out of the water and avoid even having water get in your mouth. Practice his head upright. Essentially, that means using a US good hygiene -- take a shower before swimming and Coast Guard approved life jacket or personal floata- wash your hands after using the toilet or changing tion device. It should be obvious that arm ‘floaties’ diapers (in a bathroom, not poolside). Germs on your are not an approved personal floatation device. In- body end up in the water. stead, look for one that is labeled as US Coast Guard Take kids on bathroom breaks or check dia- approved. You should also make sure that younger pers often. “I have to go” may mean that it’s too late. kids, even those who can swim well, are always su- Germs can spread to surfaces pervised by an adult when they are in or around wa- and objects in and around the ter. Even older children and teens shouldn’t swim pool. Wash your child thor- alone, but should instead use a ‘buddy’ system and oughly (especially the rear always swim with a friend, preferably in areas that end) with soap and water be- are supervised by a lifeguard. fore swimming. We all have Sun Block Mistakes – Most parents un- invisible amounts of fecal mat- derstand that using sun block is important and try ter on our bottoms that end up their best to avoid letting their kids get sunburned. in the pool (on average people have about 0.14 Avoiding common mistakes that parents make when grams of feces on their bottoms which, when rinsed using sun block can help you avoid painful sunburns. off, can contaminate recreational water). These mistakes include: (1) Not Water Safety – To ensure the safety of chil- using sun block. Especially com- dren, never leave them unsupervised around water. mon early in the spring or sum- Here are some tips to keep children safe around wa- mer, when you don’t think it is ter: (1) teach your child to swim, but younger chil- sunny enough to get a burn. Par- dren shouldn’t be left unsupervised around water ents sometimes forget to use sun- even if they know how to swim; (2) always wear a screen late in the day, underesti- US Coast Guard approved life jacket when on a lake, mating how long their kids will river or ocean while boating, water skiing, jet skiing be outside, or when it is cloudy or tubing; (3) warn children about playing in canals outside. (2) Not using enough sun block. Many peo- or other fast moving water; (4) don’t let children play (Continued on Page 12) Page 12 Kent Connections June 2007 people are cooking outside at picnics, barbecues, and have a safe summer on camping trips. The safety controls that a kitchen (Continued from Page 11) provides – refrigeration, thermostat-controlled cook- ple use less than half the recommended amount of ing, and washing facilities – are usually not available. sun block when they do apply it on their kids. So ap- Fight back by following these four simple steps to ply a thin layer to each section of the child’s body, to safer food in the summertime: (1) Wash hands and the point that it is actually hard to work it all in. (3) surfaces often. When possible, wash your hands with Missing areas of their child’s body when they apply hot soapy water before handling food and after using sun block. Many kids don’t like to have sun block put the bathroom, changing diapers, and handling pets. on them, making its application quite the battle. (4) When eating away from home, find out if there’s a Not reapplying sun block every few hours, especially source of clean water. If not, bring water for prepara- when your kids are in the water or sweating a lot. (5) tion and cleaning, or pack clean, wet, disposable Waiting too long to put sun block on. To be effective, washcloths or moist towelettes and paper towels for sun block should be applied about 30 minutes before cleaning hands and surfaces. (2) Don’t cross- going outside. If you wait until the kids are already contaminate. When packing the cooler for an outing, outside, they will be unprotected for about 30 min- wrap raw meats securely to avoid raw meat juices utes until the sun block is most effective. (6) Letting from coming in contact with ready-to-eat food. Wash their kids play outside when the sun is strongest, be- plates, utensils, and cutting boards that held the raw tween 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (7) Not providing meat or poultry before using again. (3) Cook to kids with shade. To avoid the sun and help keep kids proper temperatures. Take your thermometer along. from getting overheated, some shade can be helpful. Meat and poultry cooked on a grill often brown fast A hat, sunglasses, and loose fitting, full on the outside; be sure meat is cooked thoroughly. length clothing can also help protect kids from the Cook ground meats (veal, lamb, hamburger, and harmful effects of the sun. pork) to an internal temperature of 160˚F, and Choosing Sunglasses – Don’t forget sun- ground poultry to 165˚F. Cook steaks and roasts that glasses to protect your eyes. The same rays that dam- have been tenderized, boned, rolled, etc., to an inter- age skin can increase your risk of developing eye nal temperature of 160˚F for medium and 170˚F for problems, such as cataracts. Ultraviolet (UV) radia- well-done. Whole steaks and roasts may be cooked to tion in sunlight is commonly divided into UVA and 145˚F for medium rare. Whole poultry should be UVB, and sunglasses should block both forms. Don’t cooked to 180˚F in the thigh; breast meat to 170˚F. assume that you get more UV protection with pricier Cook meat and poultry completely at the picnic site -- or darker tinted sunglasses. Look for a label that spe- partial cooking of food ahead of time allows surviving cifically states that the glasses offer 99 percent to 100 bacteria to multiply to the point that later cooking percent UV protection. You could also ask an eye-care cannot destroy them. (4) Refrigerate promptly. Cold professional to test your sunglasses if you’re not sure perishable food like lunch meats, cooked meats, of their level of UV protection. chicken, and potato or pasta salads should be kept in Sunglasses should be dark enough to reduce an insulated cooler packed with several inches of ice, glare, but not enough to distort colors and affect the ice packs, or containers of frozen water. Pack bever- recognition of traffic signals. For best color percep- ages in one cooler and perishable food in another tion, neutral gray, amber, brown or green are the because the beverage cooler will probably be opened recommended lenses. People who wear contact lenses frequently. If a cooler is not an option, take fruits, that offer UV protection should still wear sunglasses. vegetables, hard cheeses, canned or dried meats, Children also should wear sunglasses. Not toy sun- dried cereal, bread, peanut butter, crackers, and a glasses, but real sunglasses that indicate the UV- bottle of refreshing beverage. If you have take-out protection level. Polycarbonate lenses are generally food you don’t plan to eat within two hours of pur- recommended for children because they are the most chase, chill the food in your refrigerator before pack- shatter-resistant. ing for your outing. (5) Leftovers? At 90˚F or above, Summer Food Safety – Foodborne ill- food should not be left out over one hour. Play it nesses increase during the summer. Natural microor- safe; put leftover perishables back on ice once you ganisms grow faster in the warm summer months. In finish eating so they do not spoil or become unsafe to the right conditions, harmful bacteria can quickly eat. Any doubt, throw it out. multiply on food, causing someone eating the food to For additional information and resources to get sick. Second, there are the “people” causes for the help you learn more and stay safe, please visit upswing in summertime foodborne illnesses. More www.keepkidshealthy.com. **2652** **4322** Page 13 Kent Connections June 2007 Safe Summer Day is all about your safety By G. Wayne McCarty, Park Facilities Specialist over the annual monthly average) • Biking (increases 45 percent) It’s that time again! The Ninth Annual Safe Sum- • Fall (increases 21 percent) mer Day 2007 sponsored by the Kent County Levy Court, Kent County EMS, Kent County Parks and Rec- • Motor vehicle passenger injuries (increases 20 reation, Delaware Office of Highway Safety, percent) Delaware State Police, Delaware Solid Waste • Pedestrian injuries (increases 16 percent)A Authority, the Dela- Along with plenty of food, sodas, wa- ware Safe Kids ter, multiple “moon- Coalition, Delaware bounces”, pony Risk Watch, and rides, and dunk- Dover A.F.B –512th ing booth; you Civil Engi- will be able to: neering • Under the Squadron is supervision of a scheduled trained fire pro- for Satur- fessional, learn day, June how to put out 16, 2007 a fire while from 10:00 using a portable a.m. to fire extin- 2:00 p.m. It guisher; will be held • Watch cars in the lovely disappear; Kent County, Brecknock Park in Camden, Dela- • See a 200-pound person ware. This event will bring many safety and health install a child car seat properly in a small car’s back professionals together with a number of “good time” seat (now that is a sight to behold); specialists to ensure the community has a great start • Thank the heroes such as our military members, for the summer season. Last year, over 3,500 visitors law enforcement, emergency medical personal, and enjoyed Safe Summer Day 2006. our civil servants who have and are willing to give so Did You Know? According to the Safe Kids much, even their lives for our many freedoms; and/or U.S. Summer Safety Ranking Report, a new study re- • Enjoy a day with your friends and loved ones. leased today by Safe Kids Worldwide, Vermont led Most of all you will be able to learn many the nation with one of the lowest children’s acciden- tips and safety practices that will allow you and yours tal injury death rates in summer, 1.63 per 100,000 to enjoy a safe and healthy life for years to come. children, below the national average of 3.67 per Any assistance your group or agency might 100,000 children and a 60.3 percent reduction in the be able to provide in the way of prizes and/or litera- summer rate over a five-year period. (Delaware was ture will be helpful. If you are unable to attend the in the top 5 states with the lowest child injury death Safe Summer Day event and would still like to be a rates.) part of it, please consider a donation towards the The report also shows that an average of 17 event. All donations are greatly appreciated and will children a day, or 2,143 children in total, died from have special recognition the day of the event in the May 1st to August 31st in 2004 due to injuries, many park. of which could have been prevented. Also in 2004, If you have any questions, please feel free to 2.4 million children made emergency room visits due contact Glenn “Wayne” McCarty at 302-744-2489 or to accidental injuries, many of which resulted in pa- Kim O’Malley at 302-739-4773. Your attendance ralysis, brain damage and other serious disabilities. and/or participation will make Safe Summer Day Previous Safe Kids Worldwide research indi- 2007 another successful event! We truly look forward cates that five of the most common causes of chil- to seeing you. dren’s accidental injury deaths in summer are: • Drowning (increases 89 percent in the summer A Article From Delmarva Safety Association May 2007 Newsletter Page 14 Kent Connections June 2007 Students display artwork (Continued from Page 5) sa McQueen (7th grade), Nathan Taylor (7th grade) & Afrika Whaley (7th grade); Central Middle School – Brandy Smith (8th grade); Dover High School - Katie Yost. According to the Delaware State: Division of the Arts web page, “The Delaware Division of the Arts (DDOA), a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is dedicated to promoting and developing the arts throughout the state. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council (DSAC), the Division administers grants and programs that sup- Kent County Department of Public Safety Emergency port arts programming, educate the public, increase Communications recently received Reaccreditation in awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all Emergency Medical Dispatch at the Navigator 2007 con- facets of Delaware life.” **9302** **6832** ference at the Riviera Hotel in Las Vegas. Accepting the award from National Academy of Emergency Dispatch are J.R. Short and Kevin Sipple. 2007 GRADUATION ACCOLADES (Continued from Page 10) Daniel Alan Koehler, son of KIMM DIXON, MARK YOUR CALENDAR graduated May 25th from West Moore High School. He (Continued from Page 4) nex at 9:00 a.m., Kent County Administrative Com- plans to attend Oklahoma University to major in Inter- plex in Room 257 from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. national Relations and Japanese. Ashley Tull, granddaughter of RUBY FARMER, June 13, 2007 - L&W Ins. Rep. to answer graduated May 31st from Sussex Tech High School. She health insurance questions from 1:00-2:00 p.m. in will attend Del Tech in Georgetown to become a Regis- Room 213 at the County Administrative Complex. tered Nurse. June 19, 2007 - Employee Training Session Ashley Domm, niece of SANDY HANGGI, by Dover Police Officers on verbal judo and active graduated May 20th from Gettysburg College with a listening. Sessions will be held at 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 Bachelor of Fine Arts. p.m. in room 220 A/B in the Kent County Administra- Jeffrey P. Kearn, son of ALLEN KEARN, gradu- tive Complex. ated May 14th from Del Tech with an Associate Degree in Computer Technology. June 20, 2007 - Employee Appreciation Pic- Sean P. Kearn, son of ALLEN KEARN, gradu- nic at the Administrative Complex park area from ated May 21st from Emery Riddle University in Day- 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free food and fun for all em- tona Beach, FL with a Master Degree in Computer Tech- ployees. Rain date is June 21. nology. Robert Newton, son of JIM NEWTON, gradu- ated in May from home schooling and was accepted to Kent Co. Employee Obsessions attend Nascar Tech Institute in Mooresville, N.C. in The display case on the main floor of the Kent November 2007. County Administrative Complex features a unique as- Clayton Semans, son of EDDIE and Donna SE- sortment of ivory-themed baubles collected over the MANS, will graduate June 2nd from Caesar Rodney years by Deputy Receiver of Taxes SHARON IVORY. High School. He plans on joining the US Marine Corps. In the second floor display case, Levy Court Jo’Andrew Cousins, son of AUDREY and Ed- Office Senior Secretary KATHY PHINNEY has her NAS- ward STANFORD, will graduate June 15th from the CAR passion on exhibit. Stop by and see this wide vari- United States Naval War College with a Masters Degree ety of collectibles. It’ll drive you insane! in National Security Studies. He also holds a Bachelor Got an interesting hobby or like to collect lim- of Arts in Political Science and is working on his thesis ited edition baubles? How about a collection of trinkets for a second graduate degree, a Master of Aeronautical from far-away lands? Then show off your talent for Science with a specialization in Aeronautics from amassing things—it may interest others as well. (Continued on Page 15) Page 15 Kent Connections June 2007 Hurricane Forecaster Dress for summer predicts at least 5 major with eye toward storms this summer attire guidelines By J. Allen Metheny, Sr., Assistant Director of By Allan Kujala, Personnel Director Dept. of Public Safety—Emergency Management Division Many employees are beginning to look forward to I recently returned from the National Hurricane Con- endless summer heat and ference in New Orleans adjusting the work wardrobe where I was joined by as temperatures soar - but hundreds of other emer- don’t go too far. gency management offi- Six years ago, cials from across the County department heads country. decided to tackle the sensi- In addition to the tive employee dress code many workshops pro- issue themselves, rather than vided for the attendees, the highlight of the Confer- have the Levy Court impose ence is always the presentation by Dr. William Gray a policy. The result of sev- of Colorado State University on his hurricane predic- eral meetings was the development of Work Attire tion for the coming hurricane season, which begins Guidelines, that each agreed to enforce in their re- officially on June 1st. Dr. Gray is considered one of spective departments. the leading experts in predicting hurricane activity in The guidelines eliminated “Casual Friday” for the United States. a more relaxed work environment every workday. Dr. Gray started his presentation by admit- Employees are permitted to wear blue jeans, ting that his forecast for last year was not a good one. but they must be clean and in good condition. Shorts As he indicated, no one can really tell what “Mother are not permitted unless part of a matching short suit Nature” is going to do. He had predicted a very ac- set or uniform. Tee shirts are prohibited as are all tive season and as we know, that did not happen. attire with messages, characters, or advertisements - As of April 3, 2007, Dr. Gray had the follow- except Kent County related logos and messages. ing predictions: Other examples of unacceptable attire in- We should expect 17 named storms with winds clude tight or form fitting clothing, revealing, shear at least 39 MPH. These are classified as either a or see-through clothing, dirty, faded or torn clothing, “tropical depression” or a “tropical storm”. Of these 17, jogging suits, micro mini-skirts, skorts, leggings, cu- nine will become hurricanes with winds over 74 MPH. lottes, overalls, sweat pants, capri pants, flip flops, Of the nine hurricanes, five will be classified as a sneakers, slippers, spike heels, visible body piercing “major” hurricane reaching at least a Category 3 with (excluding earrings), hats, caps, etc. winds over 111 MPH and a storm surge of at least nine Employees may deviate from the guidelines feet. only with the expressed approval of the department Dr. Gray also predicted that there is a 50 per- head, but the failure of supervisors to achieve uni- cent chance of a major hurricane making landfall on formity in attire could put the issue back in the hands the U.S. East Coast including the Florida peninsula of Levy Court - and the seven Commissioners might this summer. go further than some employees would want. For additional information call 744-2310. 2007 GRADUATION ACCOLADES (Continued from Page 14) Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. If he is not se- 2007 GRADUATION ACCOLADES lected for the MBA program he intends on beginning his Bethany J. Geleskie, daughter of HILARY WEL- doctorate work in Organization Leadership and Man- LIVER, will graduate June 6th from Dover High School agement through Capella University. He is currently with high honors. She has been accepted into the hon- serving as an Aircraft Command on the newest Coast ors program at the University of Delaware and will ma- Guard aircraft the C130J Super Hercules. jor in Language. Page 16 Kent Connections June 2007 SOME ANSWERS TO THOSE NAGGING QUESTIOns By Allan Kujala, Personnel Director the County auto insurance providers, that we take Q. I have noticed that all the handicapped parking safety seriously. This is also why these same people located in front of the Administrative Complex is filled are required to take defensive driving under Policy 4- each day by County employees. Aren’t those spaces re- 6. Specific permission is not required for the County served for visitors? to request MVRs, but the necessary information is collected during orientation. A. From what I understand, the State’s handicap parking law allows eligible drivers to park anywhere Q. I was not aware of the safe driving policy. Can they want—even unmarked spaces and spaces with I be terminated for too many points? time limitations (as long as it isn’t a safety or roadway hazard). But I agree with your main point that the A. The Vehicle Safety (4-7) policy was adopted spots were intended for handicapped visitors to the by Levy Court in 2002 and MVRs are annually Complex. The County Administrator is looking at sev- checked. Yes, the policy does provide for possible eral solutions, one of which includes creating marked termination for excessive points—10 or more, and handicapped spaces in the employee parking area and certain other motor vehicle violations. So please drive then asking employees to use them. He is also consid- safely—most County employees do! ering a time limit on the other spaces directly in front of the structure, so customers can have easier access to Q. What should I do if a co-worker comes to work the building. in the morning smelling of alcohol? Q. I was thinking about taking advantage of the very A. Another great question. If you suspect a co- reasonable premiums the County offers for the voluntary worker is intoxicated upon arrival or during the optional term life insurance, but I will turn 55 on No- workday, promptly contact the Personnel Office. The vember 1 and the rates increase dramatically. What County’s substance abuse policy (5-1) has procedures should I do? in place for detecting, confirming, and then seeking professional assistance for any employee with such a A. Good question, but one only you can answer. problem. Ultimately, it could result in dismissal, but The County’s optional term life insurance rates are the first incident initiates help overcoming the dis- very competitive and I certainly recommend participa- ease rather than discipline. Thanks for your inquiry. tion by employees with family members relying on them for support. The good news is the age rates only Q. I have heard that the County may opt to en- increase on July 1. Since your birthday is in Novem- force a strict dress code. If this comes about, will we ber, you will continue to pay the Age 54 rate of 42 receive a clothing allowance to purchase “appropriate cents per $1,000 of coverage until the following July 1, clothing”? Why doesn’t the County adopt a standard when it would increase to 67 cents. uniform—say khaki slacks/skirt and a seasonal top? Q. I was recently reprimanded by my supervisor for A Employees should always dress profession- having too many points against my driver’s license. First ally and in a fashion that shows respect for our cus- off, I got those speeding tickets while on vacation out of tomers—the taxpayers of Kent County. This talk of a state in my own personal vehicle and secondly you did strict dress code has been prompted by employees not have my permission to view my motor vehicle re- failing to follow the work attire guidelines currently cords, so how did you do so? in effect. Supervisors need to vigorously enforce the existing guidelines. I do not think there would be a A. Kent County Policy 4-7 requires all County clothing allowance, because all employees should be employees regularly operating a County owned vehicle dressing appropriately already. I also don’t think the or their personnel vehicle on County business to obey Levy Court would opt for County provided khakis or all traffic laws. It provides for at least annual review matching polo shirts for everyone. Some County de- of motor vehicle reports and provides for disciplinary partments have these uniforms because they are action whenever a certain number of points are ac- working out in the field and need to be readily identi- crued against a driver’s license. The purpose for the fied by the public. Employees working behind a policy is two-fold—it helps keep employees safe as counter in the Administrative Complex are already well as other motorists and it provides validation to identified by building in which they work.