Award Recipients

Congratulations to our 3rd Quarter 2022 Employee Recognition Winner Internal Nomination:

Mary Helfmann- Register of Deeds

The individuals who nominated Mary wrote:   

"On Friday, Mary worked with an elderly man who was trying to understand the directions from his lender. Mary exhibited patience and empathy while explaining what was being requested. Mary had to practically shout so he could hear her. She never stopped smiling and delivered incredible service. Excellent example of going above expectation to help. Our resident left thanking her profusely for the explanation and help. Very well done Mary!"

• Where is the most interesting place you have been? 

"My husband, Gary, and I traveled with friends for a week in Ecuador. I literally loved everything about it! We rented a home a block from the home a block from the ocean for 30 dollars a night. All the roads were dirt roads, and chickens and goats would come up to our porch .Very few homes had windows , but every home had an extension cord leading to the nearest electric pole for the necessities. The food was fresh and incredible , and I had a massage followed by a masque made from volcanic ash."

• If you had to spend all your vacations for the rest of your life in the same place, where would it be and why? 

"Hands down it would be at our home in Torch Lake with all my kids, their significant others and my seven grandchildren. The time we spend together on the lake is always so magical, I cant wait to get back."

 Number of years employed by Livingston County:  6 Years

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Congratulations to our 3rd Quarter 2022 Employee Recognition Winner

External Nomination:

Kathryn Heath - Probation Department

   

The individuals who nominated Kathryn wrote:       

• How I unwind after a hard day at work

• Best weekend getaways 

 Number of years employed by Livingston County:  16 Years

Congratulations to our 2nd Quarter 2022 Employee Recognition Winner Internal Nomination:

Patti Heilner - LETS 

The individuals who nominated Patti wrote:

"I would like to nominate my coworker Patti. Patti has worked at LETS for 18 years. She is one of our early morning drivers, which presents itself with challenges the rest of us don't regularly face. She is one of the first to encounter construction zones, confront rush hour traffic, and harsh winter weather conditions before the roads have been plowed and few bus drivers are available for assistance. She handles the stress with ease and, additionally, offers help to dispatch or other drivers when she can. She is a safe and reliable driver who has compassion for her passengers. As an example, a few months ago she noticed a passenger was in distress and called 911. It turns out the passenger was having a heart attack, and Patti's call for help possibly saved their life. But this story is no surprise to anyone who knows Patti. She has a heart of gold. She's a knowledgeable, dependable person with a fun and witty personality. Her coworkers and passengers love her. She deserves to be recognized for her outstanding service to our community".

"Patti is always aware of a Rider's Safety and Well-being. On April 8th, a Rider Boarded Patti's Bus and did not seem to be "herself" - she was anxious. After just a few minutes on the Bus, Patti noticed the Rider was more anxious and struggling to breathe. Patti pulled her Bus to the side of the road and called 9-1-1. Patti reported her location and situation to L.E.T.S. Dispatch and kept them apprised of events. Ultimately the Rider was taken by LivCo EMS to the Hospital. Patti's awareness of her Rider, her quick-thinking, and quick response were key to preventing a serious situation from becoming worse. A few days after this occurred the Rider called back to thank L.E.T.S. - and Patti specifically - because she had been having a heart Attack".

Number of years employed by Livingston County:  18 Years

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Congratulations to our 2nd Quarter 2022 Employee Recognition Winner External Nomination:

Elyse Fuentes- Clerk Circuit Court

   

The  individuals who nominated Elyse wrote:       

          "She was so helpful. Very kind and patient"

• If you had to spend all of your vacations for the rest of your life in the same place, where would you go and why?

I would go to Peru.  I travel there whenever I am able.  I like to spend time with my family that lives there and explore the country.  I love the culture, food and music.  There are still so many places I haven't seen and many I would like to revisit.

• What's your favorite genre of book or movie?

I like to read science fiction, horror, fantasy or mystery. 

 Number of years employed by Livingston County:  5 Years

Congratulations to our 1st Quarter 2022 Employee Recognition Winner Internal Nomination:

Dorian Harrow - District Court

 

The individual who nominated Dorian wrote:

"During a probation violation hearing in my courtroom today, a defendant indicated on the record that Probation Officer Dorian Harrow is the "nicest and most helpful probation officer" he has ever had. The defendant stated that he is now in his longest-ever period of sobriety from drugs and largely credits this to Dorian's support. He also stated that Dorian would often check in with him to see how he was doing, and he was very clearly appreciative of all Dorian has done for him. Dorian and his department work hard every day to help rehabilitate individuals like this defendant and often don't get the credit they deserve for their efforts."

• What would be your ideal way to spend the weekend?

Ideally, I would start the day with a nice long run on a beautiful spring day. Then relax at home with family and friends while smoking some sort of barbeque and cooking treats with my two daughters.

• What is your favorite genre of book or movie?

Science fiction.  I have been reading a very fun series lately by Jim Butcher that was recommended to me by a former defendant.  It is a pretty amazing series.  My favorite series of movies and books is the Jurassic Park Series though.  I love Michael Crichton's writing style and I am a bit of nerd when it comes to dinosaurs. 

Number of years employed by Livingston County:  12 Years

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Congratulations to our 1st Quarter 2022 Employee Recognition Winner External Nomination:

Bridget Durfee - Animal Shelter

                                                      

 The individual who nominated Bridget wrote:

• What would be your ideal way to spend the weekend?

       My Ideal way to spend the weekends are with my husband and 2 boys, having movie night and hanging out and just spending time together. 

• How do you relax after a hard days of work?

     I Like to drink a cup of tea, read a book every night and snuggle with my pups Taw and Ghost.

•  What is your favorite Season?

   My Favorite season is Fall, I love all the colors, the weather, and Halloween. 

Congratulations to our 4th Quarter 2021 Employee Recognition Winner External Nomination:

Katrina Wachner- Prosecutors Office

 The individual who nominated Katrina wrote:

"Every day she goes above and beyond when it comes to customer service. She takes the time to listen to women when they are stressed about their situation in life. They are worried about their children, finances, abusive ex-partners. Sometimes that's all someone needs is a listening ear to put them at ease."

Number of years employed by Livingston County:  4 Years

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Congratulations to our 4th Quarter 2021 Employee Recognition Winner Internal Nomination:

Jean Bain- LETS Transportation

  The individuals who nominated Jean wrote:

"Jean was transporting a passenger and had to move on and leave the passenger outside. Jean was so uncomfortable leaving the person outside in the cold, she gave her own LETS jacket to the passenger and said "I will pick It up on my next ride". This shows complete compassion towards the passengers and this is a perfect program to highlight her performance. Thank you!"

Number of years employed by Livingston County:  10 Months

Congratulations to our 3rd Quarter 2021 Employee Recognition Winner External Nomination:

Aaron Hatter & David Karakuc- EMS Department

The individual who nominated Aaron & David wrote:

"I write you today to inform you of the absolute selfless act that we were proud to take part in this afternoon that was initiated by the two crew members listed above who were working A101 on July 19, 2021.

On the morning of July 19, 2021, your crew, A101, and HTFD were dispatched to a medical in Hamburg Township. When crews arrived on location, they were confronted with a living condition that was far less than ideal. There was a large amount of rotting food on the floors throughout the home along with a large amount of garbage scattered everywhere. The patient is an elderly patient that does not have the physical ability to get around very well. The patient was loaded into the ambulance and transported to the hospital for further treatment.

Later that morning, we received a phone call at the fire station from David Karakuc who stated he worked with LCEMS on A101 and explained that while they were taking the patient to the hospital it was explained that the patient does not have any family that is willing to help. The patient mentioned that there is a microwave on the floor in their living room that is still in a box, that they would like to get on the counter in the kitchen so they can warm up soup that they like to eat. Your crew members asked the patient if they would be ok with them returning to their home so they could place the microwave on the counter and throw out some of the garbage that they had on the floor in her home, which was inhibiting them from being able to get around. Paramedic Karakuc was calling us to see if we would be willing to assist them and bring a truck to put the garbage in, and we told them we would be there. Crewmembers from LCEMS and HTFD were able to get the floors cleaned up, get some of the rotting food removed from the home, and install multiple smoke alarms for their safety. Your Paramedics went as far as to clean all of the dishes that were in the patients' sink, which appeared to be sitting there for some time, to ensure that they had to ability to eat from a clean plate.

I wanted to ensure that you were made aware of this outstanding act of kindness and patient advocacy. There are not many people that would have done what your crewmembers did today. We are proud to work with them in our community. Please extend our sincere appreciation for the "above and beyond" actions that were shown today to our resident."

Number of years employed by Livingston County:  

Aaron Hatter- 2 years

• You would be surprised to learn that: 

"I was terrified of needles until I started paramedic school." 

• What would be the most amazing adventure to go on? 

"The tv show Amazing Race or Survivor." 

David Karakuc- 1 Year

Congratulations to our 3rd Quarter 2021 Employee Recognition Winner Internal Nomination:

Stephanie Keys - Health Department

The individuals who nominated Stephanie wrote:

"Not only does Stephanie provide excellent customer service to her clients, she goes the extra mile for us, her co-workers. She works many programs at the health dept., programs include; Immunization Waivers, WIC, STI, COVID, Immunization Clinic just to name a few. I fell short a few weeks ago in WIC, many of us were trying to take a few days off before the 4th of July....so our staffing was short and our WIC phones were ringing off the hook! We had a new mom/newborn domestic violence situation that required immediate attention. Without asking, she peeled herself out of her program and jumped into WIC to help me. We left two hours late that night, knowing her own two babies were stuck at daycare, I felt horrible! Stephanie helped me, her co-worker, and this client with empathy, eagerness, and a smile on her face. I couldn't have handled this situation without her and am truly thankful for her willingness to jump in."

Number of Years Employed by Livingston County: 3 Years

Congratulations to our 2nd Quarter 2021 Employee Recognition Winner External Nomination:

Carrie Aulette - Building Department

The individual who nominated Carrie wrote:

"I was 7 months pregnant when we started remodeling/finishing our basement, only to have the electrician tell us 2 days prior to the start that we needed a building permit in order for him to pull an electrical permit (something I knew nothing about, as this is the first time I've ever done something like this). I was completely new to the process and feel incredibly lucky that Carrie was the one to answer my frantic call at 3 pm on a Thursday. She was extremely understanding and walked me through the entire process to get my building permit started. I definitely think she could sense my desperation! I had all of our contractors on the schedule already, so this hiccup could have caused my entire project to implode (and we had a deadline with the little one on the way). I believe that afternoon I called Carrie directly no less than 8 times trying to get everything in order, and every time she was completely happy and willing to help. Not only that, but she was able to get the permit pushed through and approved the next afternoon, just in time for my project to start. She even helped me make sure I got the proper inspections lined up as well. She was my complete lifeline during this entire process. I'm not exaggerating when I say that this project wouldn't have happened without her help. Fast forward a couple of weeks later and she was still happy to help me when I sent an email to figure out our next steps for final inspections. Not only that, but she emailed me back on her BIRTHDAY to let me know that we had officially completed everything and she would be sending me the C of O in the mail. I've been raving about her over the past couple of weeks, and even considered naming our new addition Carrie after everything she did for us. We honestly cannot thank her enough! Her customer service goes above and beyond anything I expected when I called the office all those weeks ago. I'm grateful people like her exist! If everything she did doesn't qualify as outstanding service, I don't know what does."

Number of years employed by Livingston County:  5 years

Congratulations to our 2nd Quarter 2021 Employee Recognition Winner Internal Nomination:

Carolyn Henry - Prosecutor's Office

The individuals who nominated Carolyn wrote:

"As the Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Carolyn is extremely busy and knowledgeable, yet she always keeps her focus on serving those around her and in her community, particularly those who are the victims of crimes. One victim's family was struggling with the various aspects of the criminal system and the stress of the process. Carolyn not only took the time to meet with the family, but she went above and beyond in taking the family to the Judicial Center and showing the young victim what a courtroom looked like, in order to try and ease the anxiety and uncertainty he felt. Her empathy, listening, and understanding for this young victim and his family demonstrate such commitment to helping those who are victims of crimes, that we are most fortunate in Livingston County to have such a caring, dedicated, and compassionate Chief Assistant Prosecutor."

"They both go out of their way to help the office. Carolyn will cover anything - arraignments, sentencings, pre-trials - she is always willing to do anything to help. She comes in early/stays late - she wants to make sure that the office runs smoothly and efficiently. She knows the law and is always available for questions. She will give advice, but listen to your perspective as well. She and Mr. Reader have established a great working environment."

• What are some small things that make your day better?

"Those wonderful words of “Love you mom” from my 16 year-old and 19 year-old boys in texts, voicemails, or as they are running out the door.  Always makes my day. "

• Do you prefer the Ocean, Lake or Pool?

"Ocean!  Even better if you can also put your toes in the sand and feel the sun on your face."

• What is your favorite season?

"Fall with the changing color of the leaves, football games, warm days and cool nights, sweaters & jeans, and kids in school.  The fall season in Michigan never disappoints."

Number of Years Employed by Livingston County: 7 months

Congratulations to our 1st Quarter 2021 Employee Recognition Winner External Nomination:

Jim Berry - Building Inspection

The individual who nominated Jim wrote:

"I travel nationally I am able to experience many employees and bldg. Departments every month. Sunglass Hut Spring, Summer 2020 Jimmy Berry including the entire staff of Livingston County bldg. Department. This renewed my hope and attitude of the permit process. Traveling the country with constant problems, delays, attitudes, and issues. The permit process with Jimmy Berry and Livingston county bldg. department spoke loudly and reminded me this is rare. It is the way it was and should be. In final I was reminded jimmy Berry was a building inspector many years previously that required additional possibly controversial inspections. 20 years ago and today it is a pleasure to cross paths with a man that continues to practice the morals and Ethics the majority of us were instilled with and continues to practice and instill them in our workplace. Thank You, Mr. Berry"

Number of Years Employed by Livingston County: 27 Years

Congratulations to our 1st Quarter 2021 Employee Recognition Winner Internal Nomination:

Deputy Vincent John - Sheriff's Office

The individual who nominated Vincent wrote: 

"On December 8th, 2020, Deputy Vincent John's actions helped to save a life of an inmate who was incarcerated in the Livingston County Jail.  Deputy John received information that an inmate who was in his, housing area was not moving and possibly not breathing.  Deputy John responded and based on his training, believed the inmate had possibly overdosed and administered Narcan.  He also set up an AED device and had it ready to deploy if necessary.    Deputy John administered two more shots of Narcan and after the third shot, the individual started to recover.  We are thankful for Deputy John's dedication, quick response, training to keep all those in the Livingston County Jail safe."

Number of Years Employed by Livingston County: 8 years

Congratulations to our 4th Quarter 2020 Employee Recognition Winner

Allison Nalepa - County Administration

The individual who nominated Allison wrote:

"Allison puts her heart into every project she manages and she is a joy to work with! On a daily basis, Allison's positive attitude, enthusiasm and quick wit are sincerely appreciated! Her willingness to take on county-wide projects and deliver an outstanding product is priceless!"

• What are some small things that make your day better?

"Working remotely lately, I enjoy the frequent "check-ins" my dogs make sure to clock in every two hours or so. They come nudge my elbow for a few pets and nothing makes me smile more. I also look forward to Zoom meetings where I get to stay connected with my co-workers, who I consider my friends."

• You would be surprised to learn that:

"I’m a Michigan State University Extension Master Gardener and I’m completely addicted to gardening. Each summer I make it a personal goal to plant as many heirloom tomato plants I possibly can. Exploring new plant varieties and growing techniques keep me busy. If you’re ever in need of the perfect tomato for a BLT, I’m the one to call."

• How do you relax after a long day of work?

"I'm a music lover, so I enjoy selecting an album from my collection of records, starting my turntable, and turning up the volume to enjoy some tunes as my husband and I make dinner together."

Number of Years Employed by Livingston County:  7 Years 

Congratulations to our 3rd Quarter 2020 Employee Recognition Winner

Glenda "Gail" Cook - Facility Services

The individuals (5) who nominated Gail wrote:

"Gail has been cleaning during the day at the East Complex since we re-opened in May. Our building has never been cleaner! She cleans from top to bottom the counters, doors, bathrooms, etc. always with a smile on her face! She has also gifted us beautiful plants on our countertops and in our hallways. She is an absolute gift and an asset to Livingston County."

"She does an excellent job keeping our building clean during the day. It's been cleaner than it ever has been. You'd think there were more people cleaning during the workday because of the exceptional job she does- especially keeping the bathrooms clean!"

"She does an amazing job keeping our building clean, always has a smile on her face and a great attitude! She truly is a pleasure to have around, and we are so thankful for what a great job she does keeping our building clean."

"All through COVID, she has been religiously cleaning our office multiple times a day. She is always respectful, courteous, and friendly. I've come to enjoy her visits in the office. Not to mention our office and front bathroom have never been cleaner!"

"Before, during and after COVID, she has supported us in any way she can with our needs in the WIC office. She has cleaned around us, helped us organize, and provided us with a daily dose of smile when we needed it. We are in week 17 of this COVID chaos, and she's still working harder than ever! An absolute JOY to have in our East Complex."

Congratulations to our 2nd Quarter 2020 Employee Recognition Winner:

Jaclyn Kaminski - Circuit Court

The individuals (3) who nominated Jaclyn wrote:

"Jaclyn is such a great team player and always gives 110% of herself to her work and helping others. She is always there to help and assist whenever she's needed. During the current pandemic she stepped up to organize the office schedule, the Judge's docket , and she even made masks for the office staff as well as other employees including FOC staff."

"During this unprecedented time of doing court hearings by zoom, Jaclyn has been amazing at communicating with attorneys and sending out a schedule of the approximate time of when the hearings will take place. This new process has been technologically challenging for some and Jaclyn has left us feeling comfortable and confident in appearing by zoom before the Judge. She is a pleasure to work with and an asset to the Judge's staff."

"Works diligently behind the scenes to ensure the judge's docket is run smoothly. Works many hours of overtime every week. Always has time for questions from other staff whole maintaining sense of humor & patience. Most people don't notice how hard she works! Helpful to attorneys & pro per litigants. She should be recognized!" 

Congratulations to our 1st Quarter 2020 Employee Recognition Winner:

Deputy Ray Marino - Sheriff's Office

The individual who nominated Deputy Marino wrote:

"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Deputy Marino and those who helped him with a school incident.  I have heard horror stories about High School Security Staff questioning students to get any kind of information and not calling parents immediately.  I was so relieved that Deputy Marino handled our situation immediately with us and with my son.  He showed my son exactly how things should be handled by law enforcement all while having a great attitude for dealing with a teenager.  I appreciate Deputy Marino’s experience being that he could tell another student threw my son's name out there as an accomplice to try to get himself out of trouble.  Dealing with teenagers and parents cannot be an easy task and I hope Deputy Marino is recognized for his work."

Congratulations to our 4th Quarter 2019 Employee Recognition Winner:

Steven Allen - EMS

The individual who nominated Steven wrote:

"Steve is always going above and beyond at work and always has a smile on his face! I was working with Steve last week when we were dispatched to a corner for a "man down." When we arrived we found a homeless man sleeping with no medical complaints. After talking with the homeless gentleman for about 10 minutes Steve ascertained that the man had not eaten anything in two days. After we cleared Steve drove to VGs and purchased $30 in food and personal hygiene items and delivered them to the guy without a second thought! Steve is the kind of Paramedic I want working on my family if the need ever arises. He is caring and a patient advocate to the end! Steve is truly deserving of recognition for going above and beyond!"

• What would be the most amazing adventure to go on?

 "I have always wanted to travel to Ireland with my wife and rent motorcycles. I always felt that it would be amazing to ride from town to town while stopping to see the castles and countryside."

Number of Years Employed by Livingston County:  5 Years

Congratulations to our 3rd Quarter 2019 Employee Recognition Winner:

Dawn Ducett - District Court

Dawn received three nominations:

Congratulations to our 2nd Quarter 2019 Employee Recognition Winner:

Ken Recker- Drain Department

The individual who nominated Ken wrote: 

"For over 22 years, Ken Recker, Chief Deputy Drain Commissioner, has been serving Livingston County and its residents. His stored knowledge of property and drainage history is invaluable. He approaches every task with professionalism and every person with respect. His shoulders take the weight of much responsibility which he handles with perseverance, but more importantly, with integrity. His extra efforts, dedication, insights, and opinions are all extremely valuable to the successful undertakings of the Drain Commissioner’s office. Most of all, he demonstrates the quality of humility, which can be hard to find in today’s business world.

Ken is trusted to professionally represent the Drain Commissioner and the office to other municipal staff and various governmental officials. He also routinely meets with the public to discuss difficult property issues. He strives to always be respectful and to be helpful with advice, assistance, or referral – even when a person may be emotional or volatile. He enjoys good humor, and his laugh itself will make anyone smile. Ken has done more than just fulfill the responsibilities of his position, and he has done so with no pursuit of recognition or accolade. After so many years of dedicated, professional, significant service, I highly recommend Ken for Employee Recognition.

A specific example:

In the process of responding to a petition to construct a new drain, the petition circulator’s property sold right about the time of the Day of Review of Assessment. The Drain Code only requires that we send the notice to the owner on the last assessment roll. But when the letter addressed to the PO Box of the original owner was returned, Ken made a point of personally going out to the property and visiting with the new owner to ensure he received the notice and to discuss the impact and likely assessment on his property. This is typical of the personal attention Ken gives to his work and to the public."

• You would be surprised to learn that:

"I'm not a very good swimmer.  However, I don't mind wading."

• What are some small things that make my day better?

"Glenda (my wife) or Olivia (my daughter) checking in on me.  Conversing with fellow municipal engineers.  Troubleshooting a simple problem by looking at historical aerial imagery.  Taking a walk around the parking lot in the middle of the day."

• Favorite genre of movie?

"It drives Glenda nuts but I enjoy Eastwood Spaghetti Westerns (For a Few Dollars More, Outlaw Josey Wales, etc.)."

Number of Years Employed by Livingston County:  22 Years

Congratulations to our 1st Quarter 2019 Employee Recognition Winner:

Mary Kuzner - County Clerk

The individuals who nominated Mary wrote:
(Mary received 11 nominations)

"Nice", "Very Helpful", "Mary was very helpful and efficient. She made the experience comfortable", "Excellent service", "Very competent, and polite", "Mary was VERY quick & efficient! Had me in and out quickly". "Very helpful & nice", "Very helpful in assisting with my DBA forms", "Courteous and efficient service", "Friendly, quick and efficient document processing!", "She gave me all the information I asked about & needed when renewing my business name! Very nice to talk with!"

• The thing I like most about working for Livingston County is?
  

The wonderful group of people I work with. Elizabeth Hundley is an incredible leader who makes everyone feel like they are valued. Clerk Hundley and my fellow coworkers are always pitching in to help out. Each one of us is unique, and where one has weakness, another will bring strength. We work together to resolve problems and tackle large tasks thus creating an environment of respect and thankfulness. I also would like to mention that it is truly a pleasure to work alongside Joseph Bridgman on a daily basis. He is a wealth of knowledge, help, and humor.

• What are some small things that make your day better?

Every morning when I arrive at work my coworkers greet me with a cheery good morning. They each have a wonderful sense of humor which helps keep my days positive and happy. I also enjoy meeting and conversing with the residents of Livingston County, the local Township Clerks and their employees and my extended county employees. I have had the pleasure of many enjoyable and interesting conversations.

• How do you relax after a hard day of work?

"By attending my son's sporting events or taking my dog for a walk/run."

• Do you prefer the Ocean, Lake or Pool?

"Definitely a lake because it is perfect for boating activities and swimming."

• Where is the most interesting place you've been?

"The mountains/jungles of Costa Rica. Although the heat and creepy crawlers took some getting used to, the surfing and deep sea fishing were incredible. I would love to vacation there again."

• If you could take only three items with you to a deserted island, what would they be?

"A solar powered all terrain vehicle, a fully loaded yacht and a helicopter. Actually, I've been to a deserted island – I took sunscreen, my camera and a lunch."