ManateE-zineFor Employees by Employees April 2011

A Happy ReunionBy Larry LeinhauserOctober 11, 2007 is a day Richard St. Hilaire will never forget. He also never forgot the EMS crew, and in particular the charge paramedic who saved his life that day.

Mr. St. Hilaire is a resident in University Park, and at about 5 p.m. that afternoon he began to experience a life-threatening heart rhythm. 9-1-1 was called and EMS responded.

The charge paramedic on the call that day was Jamie Butler.

It didn’t take long for Jamie to get an idea of just how serious the situation was. Mr. St. Hilaire was awake, but very dizzy. When Butler placed him on their cardiac monitor his heart rate was initially okay, but en route to Lakewood Ranch Hospital Mr. St.Hilaire began to feel like he was going to pass out.

The heart monitor now showed that he was in ventricular tachycardia, a deadly rhythm in which the heart is limited to erratic beating and blood supply to the brain and body is severely compromised. The treatment is a combination of medications administered intravenously and cardioversion (electrical shock). He was shocked not once, or twice, but three times before his rhythm returned to normal.

Paramedic Butler managed his care until they arrived at the hospital. Once the doctors re-viewed the care given by paramedic Butler, they advised Mr. St. Hilaire if it wasn’t for her quick actions and skills, he would not be alive today.

Fast forward to March 30, 2011.

According to Mr. St.Hilaire, he never really felt he had closure until he could personally thank the paramedic who saved his life. He recently contacted the EMS operations office and spoke to Capt. Larry Luh about a possible meeting with the person who saved his life.

Capt. Luh forwarded Mr. St. Hiliare’s information to Capt. Larry Leinhauser, and he arranged the meeting to be held at Lakewood Ranch Hospital on March 30.

It was a very moving meeting for both of them. When asked why he felt it was important that he meet his rescuer, Mr. St. Hiliare said, “I just have not stopped thinking about it since it

Jamie Butler and Richard St. Hilaire

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happened, but I wasn’t sure what your proto-col was for someone to meet and thank the crew in person. Jamie saved my life and I just wanted to tell her thanks in person.”

When paramedic Butler was asked what it meant to her, she said “It’s very touching to meet someone I was able to help, and seeing them so appreciative. We don’t usually get to see or meet them after our portion of their care is completed.”

The two exchanged kind words and hugs.

Mr. St. Hiliare is doing great. His problems have been corrected, and he splits time at his home here and in Maine.

Congratulations to Jamie Butler for an out-standing job, and thanks to Mr. St. Hiliare for taking the time to say “Thank You.”

Employee of the MonthDebra Leavenworth

1. What does your job entail? Why is it important? Building Manatee County projects with outside contractors and saving the County money by using Manatee County businesses as the contractors.

2. What is the most interesting part of your job? Meeting people & learning daily.

3. What is the strangest thing that has hap-pened on the job? Getting this award!

4. Where are you from? Westminster, Massachusetts

5. What are your hobbies? Boating, cooking and building mountain comforts

6. Did you attend college? Where? What did you study? Cape Cod Community College in Mount Wachusett, Mass., where I studied a bit of everything.

7. If you were stranded on an island and could have 3 items, what would they be and why? My Bible, cold beverages and my dog, Grace

8. What did you want to be when you were a kid? A veterinarian

9. Do you have any pets? They are my kids. Three dogs, one cat -- a rescue, my favorite breed -- and one smart bird.

10. What’s your favorite song at the moment? It’s a tie between “Children of God” by Third Day & “No Chains on Me” by Chris Tomlin

Power Speakers of MCGLaws for Positive LeadershipA Toastmasters ReportWhile serving in the U.S. Army Reserves, Terence T. Griffiths’ assignment involved observing companies in his battalion to determine why mem-bers were not reen-listing. He visited one company in Alaska that had greater losses than others. During his stay, the company commander gave a

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Toastmasters Meeting Dates

5/13 Public Works 26th Avenue Conf Rm B

5/20 County Admin. Bldg Osprey Room

5/27 County Admin Bldg Osprey Room

briefing on an upcoming joint military exercise involving the Navy, Air Force and Marines. He informed his troops that their leaves of absence would be cancelled. Griffiths could see that the little morale the men had held onto was slipping badly. The commander finished by saying that during the operation there would be another acting commander. He explained with, “I’ll be on vacation.”

Griffiths immediately understood why that battalion was losing soldiers. They felt no loyalty to their company commander. That incident is a sad but compelling example of negative, ineffective and selfish leadership. Healthy leadership – the type that excels and succeeds – always moves along a more positive path. A positive leadership style inspires, motivates, energizes, unites, generates loyalty and produces results. Here are 10 laws to follow in order to be a more positive leader in your work, your community, your Toastmasters club and your family.

Give more than you expect others to give.Many people are looking out for them-selves. Be the person who looks out for Number Two, Number Three, and so on. “Ask yourself, How can I give a little more to the people around me? What can I do to lighten their workload? Who can I mentor? How can I provide the best effort? Go the extra mile on behalf of others.

Combine optimism and perseverance. That advice comes from Paul Orfalea, founder of Kinko’s and coauthor of Copy This!, a book on his success in leadership. He says the only antidotes to failures and setbacks are optimism combined with perseverance. Those two qualities empow-ered Orfalea to succeed despite his strug-

gles with dyslexia throughout his time in school. He says in his book that all his life, those two ingredi-ents have kept him moving forward: “I

Learn about Toastmasters by visiting

us on the i-Net!

failed at many jobs when I was younger. Now I look at setbacks as a sign that there is another, probably better, opportunity elsewhere. I just need to find it.”

Combine optimism and perseverance, then lead by example. Others who observe your conduct will not only feel inspired but will act the same.

See everyone as a diamond in the rough. There are no poor performers, only poor leaders who fail to find ways of helping others succeed. They fail to see the poten-tial in every person, leaving it untapped. Rabbi Shlomo Carlbach once spoke to members of Manhattan’s Diamond Dealers Club.

During a question-and-an-swer period following his talk, the Rabbi was challenged by one of the attendees who asked why Rabbi Carlbach “wasted” so much of his time with people who were homeless, unemployed, drug addicted and mentally ill.

The Rabbi responded by asking the group whether they had ever accidentally thrown out a million-dollar diamond in the rough. “Never!” shouted the group. “An expert would know the worth of a stone he held in his hand.” That gave Rabbi Schlomo an opportunity to educate his audience: “I’ll let you in on a little secret, my friends,” he said. “I’m also an expert on diamonds. I walk the streets every day, and all I see are the most precious diamond walking past me. Some of them you have to pick up from the gutter and polish a bit. But once you do, oh how they shine! So you see, the most important thing you have to know in life is that everyone, everyone, is a diamond in the rough.”

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Express appreciation; accept responsibility. Catherine the Great said, “I praise loudly, I blame softly.” Sadly, some leaders are quick to accept credit and even quicker to assign blame. The best leaders reverse that pattern. They give credit to subordinates for work well done and they do that both privately and publicly. Respected leaders are generous in giving credit where credit is due and are always prepared to accept responsibility when a project fails.

Remain balanced. Unfortunately, some leaders operate with inflated egos. These types demand rather than command respect. No matter how high you rise or how important you become, remain a balanced person. Operate with a sense of humility. Last February, Joey Cheek won an Olympic gold medal for speed skating. Shortly afterward, he was asked what he learned from winning the gold. His answer is instructive: “Keep things in perspective. I’ve seen the world and met amazing friends through my sport. But it’s not that big a deal. I mean, I skate around the ice in tights. What is important is what I do off the ice.”

Show respect for people around you.Your words and actions will show how much you value other people’s contribu-tions. Consider the example of Katharine Graham, publisher of the Washington Post. Although she led a powerful and influen-tial newspaper in the nation’s capital, she did so with compassion, kindness, humility and sincerity. Graham was well-known and highly regarded for the humble, respectful way she treated those who worked for the

paper. One of Katha-rine Graham’s great legacies was the way she treated everyone with respect, whether they were famous and powerful or anony-mous and vulnerable.

Treat everyone as family.Paul Orfalea says his company, Kinko’s, is stronger and better than the competition because he stresses the importance of the personal touch. Orfalea says: “Because I can’t read or write well, I’ve had to trust others to help me get things done. At Kinko’s, I set a policy that most of our communication be done not by written memos, but by talking face-to-face. This made us work closer as a team...”

Be a source of inspiration. When appropriate, share your wisdom. Offer people insights you have gleaned along the way. Nur-

ture those around you so they expand, enlarge, grow and do more than they ever thought they could do.

Stress cooperation not competition. Knute Rockne, the famous American football coach, led his team to many victo-ries by stressing cooperation with team-mates versus competition. “I have to get the most energy out of a man and have discovered that it cannot be done if he hates another man. Hate blocks his energy and he isn’t up to par until he eliminates it and develops a friendly feeling (toward all his teammates).”

Maintain a sense of humor. No one enjoys being around someone who is humorless, heartless, rigid and unable to laugh or enjoy all aspects of life. People who take themselves less seriously are far more pleasant to associate with. No matter how daunting or serious your work, do it with a sense of lightness, merriment and playfulness.

If that selfish Army commander in Alaska had put into practice only one or two of these tips, he might have prevented the loss of his soldiers’ morale. If he had practiced all 10 tips on a regular basis, his troops would have followed him anywhere, even under hazardous circumstances.

Chances are you’ll never have to lead soldiers into combat, but you can earn loyalty, trust and admiration from team members in any organization. Follow these rules and others will follow you.

Join Area 61 Toastmasters for a

“Speech Blitz!”May 14, 2011

8 a.m. - 11 a.m.Jiggs Landing

6106 63rd St. E. Bradenton

Register to Kelli Po-lanski by e-mail: kelli.

polanski@mymanatee.org

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Kudos CornerTo view the kudos information, click on the link which will take you to the PDF file on the iNet.

March 2Utilities DepartmentJames Walker, Robert Crowton and Mike Baker

Building & Development ServicesStephanie Moreland

Public SafetyLucas Hitchins, Jodi Della Valle, Paul Her-rholz, Al Booth, Mark Crawford and John Smith

Natural ResourcesJohnny McLeod, Marcus Campion and Jacob Stewart

March 9Public SafetyEthel Pyles, Patrick Rees and Taylor Harrell

Building & Development ServicesGreg Schneider

Parks & RecreationLeanna Grauel and Jeff Harnish

March 16Neighborhood ServicesCentral Library Staff

Building & Development ServicesLorraine Caruso, Anne Catalano and Teree Sutton

Parks & RecreationScott Jalwan

March 23UtilitiesLarry Ewain

Team EffortProperty Management, Frank Mon-hartMaggie Marr, Natural ResourcesTraci Moore, Property Management

Public SafetyPatrick Rees and Michael Kaepernik

Building & Development ServicesKristin Donahue

March 31Neighborhood ServicesDenise Thomas

Parks & RecreationMark Taylor

Public WorksMike Hilleshiem

Natural Resources Staff

Building & Development ServicesPat Wenzel and Barney Salmon

Public SafetyTaylor Harrell and Patrick Rees

EMS Captain Receives "Distinguished Citizenship Award”By Capt. Larry Leinhauser Manatee County EMS Captain Kathy Peel was recently recognized by the Elks Lodge #2734 in Bradenton and was given the “Elks Distinguished

Citizenship Award” for outstanding and meritorious service to hu-manity.

The Elks recog-nized her for her time and efforts at her job with EMS, her job at Manatee Memo-rial Hospital as a nurse, and her many hours of volunteering in the community.

When asked about receiving

the award, Kathy stated “I was quite shocked! I was not expecting this at all.” The Exulted Ruler of the BPO (Benevolent and Protective Order Of) Elks Lodge #2734 presented the award to her.

Congratulations to EMS’s Kathy Peel on receiving this special award.

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Florida Women in GovernmentAdopt-A-Road A Success!Thank you to our GMC volunteers that helped to keep our Adopt-A-Road beauti-ful. We cleaned on Saturday, April 16 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Our efforts paid off and we picked up 12 trash bags (approx. 110 lbs. total) of debris from our road.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Mark your calendars for these dates:

May 18- Annual Business LuncheonJune 8- Annual Installation /Supervisor Appreciation Luncheon @ Olive Garden

July 15 is the deadline to turn in Lari Ann Harris Scholarship applications. Please contact Donna Stevens, Scholarship Chair 941-749-3045 with any questions or con-cerns.

• The Yes We “Can” campaign is still active!When Women in Government meet on the second Wednesday of each month they collect non-perishable canned food items, which are delivered to Meals on Wheels.

Questions about Florida Women in

Government?E-mail President, Lynn Pierce of the

Information Technology

Department

Calendar of EventsSummer Blast CampSummer Blast Camp is a structured recre-ational day camp for children ages 5 to 13 years old. Your child will have the opportu-nity to enjoy a variety of exciting games, activities, swimming, and field trips. Where: G.T. Bray Recreation Center 6/13– 8/19 Lakewood Ranch High School 6/13-8/5 When: 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.Fee: Registration $30 2 Week Session $160 Weekly $85 ½ Day Program* $65 *Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. *Friday 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Teen CampThe camp will have its own designated “Teen Room” equipped with NEOS, a video interactive game that gets kids off the couch, video games and age appropriate activities. Planned field trips include: Lowry Park Zoo, Busch Gardens, and Adventure Island.Where: G.T. Bray Recreation CenterWhen: 6/13 – 8/19 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.Fee: Registration Fee $30 2 Week Session $160 Weekly $85

Junior Counselor ProgramIf you are 14 to 17 years old, enjoy children, and are looking for an exciting leadership experience, then this program is for you! Junior counselors help organize and lead activities, swim, and participate in field trips. Earn the required 75 community service hours for students participating in the Florida Undergraduate Scholarship Program. Where: G.T. Bray Recreation Center 6/13-8/19 and Lakewood Ranch High School 6/13-8/5 Fee: Registration $30 Weekly $25

Lifeguard ClassWe offer American Red Cross Lifeguard Training courses. Certification includes CPR/AED for the professional rescuer, First Aid and Lifeguarding. Open to par-ticipants ages 15 years and older. Where: G.T. Bray Recreation CenterWhen: Now through May 19Fee: $150

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WednesdayStrengthen & Lengthen 9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.Zumba 10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.Pilates 11:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.Spinning 4:30 p.m. – 5:20 p.m.Aquacise 5:30 p.m. – 6:20 p.m.

ThursdayGentle Aerobic 9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.Yoga 11:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.Ballroom Dance 1:30 p.m. – 2:20 p.m. Pilates 5:30 p.m. – 6:20 p.m.

FridayCardio Kickbox 10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.

SaturdayZumba 9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.

Fitness Wellness OrientationCall Jeff for a complimentary Fitness Wellness orientation. You will learn about: • BMI • Blood Pressure • Weight • Body Fat • Body water • Waist Circumference

After your evaluation, Jeff will work with you to reach your goal.

For information, contact Jeff at 742 5923 or jeff.lightburne@mymanatee.org.

Youth Baskektball CampThe Manatee County Youth Basketball League invites Boys and Girls between the ages of 8 - 14 years old to take part in our first ever Summer Basketball Camp. Coach Troy Albers has teamed up with past and present league directors Marcus Francis and BT Mastin to work directly with each participant to correct those “bad habits” and help them reach their true potential! Space will be limited to 20 participants per age division/per session, so register early!

All participants must be registered the Thurs-day before each session.

Where: G.T. Bray ParkWhen: Monday - Friday6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. (Boys/Girls 8 - 11)7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (Boys/Girls 12 - 14)Session 1: 6/27 - 7/1Session 2: 7/25 - 7/29

Swim LessonsWe teach a progression system that was developed by our nation’s top swim coach-es. Students move at their own pace from one skill station to the next. All coaches are certified by Swim America, a national program of the American Swimming Coaches Association. Where: G.T. Bray Recreation CenterWhen: Morning ClassesMonday, Wednesday, and FridaySession 1: 6/13 – 6/24Session 2: 6/27 – 7/8(No class on 7/4; this session is $37.50

Evening ClassTuesday, ThursdaySession 3: 5/15 – 6/2Session 4: 6/7-6/23Session 5: 6/28 – 7/14Fee: $45/student/session

Summer Adult Tennis LeaguesGet in the game! All ages and playing levels are encouraged to come out and give tennis a try. Singles and Doubles Leagues are offered with each league playing one evening each week for eight weeks. Where: G.T. Bray Recreation CenterWhen: 5/2 – Registration 5/23 – League BeginsFee: Clay Court Play With Current Membership $40 Without Current Membership $65 Hard Court Play With Current Membership $26 Without Current Membership $40 Clay/Hard Court Play With Current Membership $40 Without Current Membership $50

Group Exercise Classes for April 2011MondayCardio/Strength 10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.Abs-a-glutely 4:30 p.m. – 5:20 p.m. Spin 5:30 p.m. – 6:20 p.m.Zumba 6:30 p.m. – 7:20 p.m.Capoeira Luanda 8:00 p.m. – 8:50 p.m.

TuesdayGentle Aerobics 9:00 a.m. – 9:50 p.m.Line Dancing 10:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.Karate 4:30 p.m. – 5:20 p.m.Yoga 5:30 p.m. – 6:20 p.m.

Many group exercise classes are now included in the

Recreation Member-ship.

Sign up now, and find out what all the craze is

about!

For information on all programs, contact us at 742-5923 or mymana-

tee.org/parks.

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Fee: $45 per participant/per session

For more information; please contact Marcus Francis or BT Mastin at 742-5926 or by e-mail at marcus.francis@mymanatee.org bert.mastin@mymanatee.org

Golf CampTaught by former LPGA Golf Professional Shelley Sanders, former touring professional and college golf coach. Camp includes: eti-quette, rules of golf, woods, irons, putting, chipping, pitching, and fun for all! Transpor-tation provided to and from G.T. Bray Park.

Where: Manatee County Golf CourseWhen: Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.Week 1 : June 27 - 30Week 2: July 11 - 14Week 3: July 18 - 21Week 4: July 25 - 28Fee: $150/week (lunch included)

For additional information or to register, contact Shelley Sanders at 539 9402.

Manatee County Rowing - Long Skinny Summer Boat CampYouth entering 6th grade and above can participate in this exciting new camp. Youth will learn rowing terminology, rowing machine, rowing on the water, cardio conditioning, and nutrition in a positive fun environment. A regatta will be held at the end of each session so family and friends can come see the campers newly developed skills. Led by high school rowing coach Trish Jackson, contact at manateerowing@live.com.

Where: Ft. Hamer Rowing Facility 1605 Ft. Hamer Road, ParrishWhen: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.Session 1: June 13 - 24Session 2: July 11 - 22Session 3: August 1 - 12Fee: $250/session

Volleyball Camp at G.T. BrayNancy Cothron, Volleyball Coach for Saint Stephen’s Episcopal and Director of Manatee Area Volleyball (MAV) welcomes boys and girls of all ages to come take part in one of her summer Volleyball Camps. Nancy brings her experience as a former collegiate player at FSU and professional Beach and Indoor player. Nancy and her staff will work with the

younger kids to provide introduction and review of skills, while addressing the needs of the more experienced players through the teaching of game strategy and more. All camps come with a minimum requirement needed and limited registration.

Camps & Fees4-Day Morning Camp (K - 3rd grade) $454-Day Evening Camp (4th - 8th Grade) $45Beach Camp (Full & Half Days) T.B.D.

For dates, times and registration information contact Nancy Cothron at tcothron@tam-pabay.rr.com or 915-3097.

4-on-4 Flag FootballRegistration: May 23 - 29Team Fee: $325 (8 player roster)Details: Adults Age 18 and upGames are on Wednesday evenings For more information, e-mail bert.mastin@mymanatee.org

Adult SoftballRegistration: May 16 - 22Team Fee (20 player roster): Men’s Team = $400Women’s Team = $400Co-ed Team = $300

Details: Adults Age 18 and upMen’s League plays Mon. & Wed. or Tues. & Thur. NightsWomen’s League plays Wednesday NightsCoed League plays Sunday Nights

For more information, e-mail bert.mastin@mymanatee.org

Employee Health BenefitsHealthy Potlucks at Work: Is it possible? EHB is “Walking the Talk”

The EHB office consists of personnel from Health Benefits, Manatee Service Center, and the Center for Health & Lifestyle Management.

By Kim Stroud, Employee Health BenefitsPotlucks are a great way to celebrate events within your department, whether its birth-days, retirements, new babies, or just taking the opportunity to step away from the daily grind and spend quality time with

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coworkers over lunch. They are a great way to boost morale as well as re-energize your Team.

The potlucks at EHB used to consist of foods heavy in carbo-

hydrates, fat, and calories. Foods such as these often times leave us lethargic and, make it difficult to stay productive. One mission of Employee Health Benefits is to promote a healthy lifestyle, therefore we decided to “walk the talk” and give our potlucks a makeover. Our Potlucks are now “Salad Bar Potlucks.” Everyone on our team brings items they enjoy in a salad. These potlucks have not only made our lunch healthier but it’s a learning experi-

ence and there is always some-thing new.

Our table is filled with salad greens, cucumbers, garbanzo beans, beets, tomatoes, olives, cranberries, peppers, walnuts, carrots, scallions, avocados, a variety of light or fat free salad dressings and just about anything else you can imagine on a salad. We too love desserts and sweets, so we usually have one dessert item as an indulgence, since mod-eration is the key, not restriction. We have been motivated to make

the dessert item a smart choice. At our last potluck we had oatmeal cookies and they were delicious!

We have found the energy that we have after the potluck is addictive and salad potlucks are now a standard at EHB. The fellowship and the teambuilding during these times have a great impact on our morale and we’re motivated to continue working hard for our department and the members of the health plan.

So we encourage you to try out a salad potluck and find out for yourself how satisfying and energizing they can be!

In Good Health!

WOW!!! Know Your Numbers!

By Christine Fritz, Employee Health BenefitsWe at the Center for Health & Lifestyle Management, a division of Employee Health Benefits, are thankful and pleas-antly surprised by the overwhelming response from our members that have joined the Know Your Numbers Campaign. We have over 1,000 Health Plan members registered and participating!

Members are earning points redeemable for health bucks by participating in health events that focus on important health “num-bers” such as body mass index, blood pres-sure, cholesterol, exercise and relaxation.

All registrants of the program received a Passport # and a “Passport to Health” Book-let (or paper) upon completion of a pre-sur-vey and registration form. If you have not registered and want to register you can access the forms and information at www.ManateeYourChoice.com. The programs and events will run through August.

Note: You must be registered for the program and have a passport # in order to earn points redeemable for health bucks.

It’s All Fun and GamesWord Search: I.T Style

Information Network Automate Maps WiFi Laptop Mouse CPU

Your Benefits websiteDon’t forget to access www.ManateeYour-

Choice.com for the monthly calendar.

Each month a new calendar is posted with

all the programs and services being offered

that month, such as: Group Fitness

Schedule, Qualifying Questions of the Week,

Diabetes Workshops, Tobacco Courses, Nutri-

tion and Weight Loss Classes, Special

Programs and more.

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Divide & Conquer: Ris-ing Stars UpdateBy Simone Peterson, Neighborhood ServicesEver since the Rising Stars kickoff event in February, groups within the Rising Stars have been hard at work defining their mission statements. The group has identi-fied key areas of importance that should be addressed within Manatee County Govern-ment and have formed seven committees to brainstorm solutions to these areas.

Rising Stars Communications Commit-teeChairperson: Nick Azzara, County Administrator’s Office

The Communications Committee will be concentrating primarily on improving the way the organization delivers impor-tant news to employees, whether they work in the office or in the field. They

have formed the following three goals:

• Explore the possibility of extending iNet access outside the County network. We’re aiming to create an employee portal for employees to log in from home to check the iNet for news or to input their timecard information.

• Conduct an employee survey to learn who uses the iNet, who reads the Ezine, who loves/hates “everyone1” email, etc. We hope to learn more about how employees access county news and what we can do to im-prove those channels.

• Develop a communication network. This may involve identifying people in each department/division/satellite office who will commit to relaying the most important information to field and office workers. This may also involve an option for em-ployees to receive text message alerts on important news, events and updates.

The committee presently has no plans to meet prior to the May 19 Rising Stars meeting.

Rising Stars Events Committee Chairperson: Alice Rimer, Public Works

The Events Committee is committed to organizing business and social meetings for the Rising Stars.

• The Business and Social meetings will alternate months.

• The meeting will be scheduled at various times for optimal participation.

• The Business meetings will be held at various departments for educational pur-poses, beginning May 19th.

• Social events are still being developed and we are open for suggestions.

The Events Committee will meet on May 25 at 3:45 p.m., in the Public Works Large Conference Room.

Rising Stars Skill Development CommitteeChairperson: Sage Kamiya, Public Works

The Rising Stars Skill Development Com-mittee will focus on ways to provide tools for County employees to further develop their careers. This will likely include both formal and informal solutions. Our first two goals are:

• How do we get all County employee responsibilities to front line employees so they can be better equipped when working with our customers?

• Develop a process for sharing employee experiences, certifications, or knowledge with other employees to help them acquire new or hone current skills.

Rising Stars Fast Track CommitteeChairperson: Simone Peterson, Neighbor-hood Services

The Fast Track Committee’s mission is to provide Manatee County Gov-ernment employees ownership of their proactive ideas, pro-vide feedback for those ideas while teaching the employee important workforce skills. The general purpose for this group is to develop an

Upcoming Rising Stars Events

Business MeetingMay 193 p.m.

Public Works1022 26th Avenue

East Bradenton

Social EventJune 11 -

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.AMF Bowling Lanes

4208 Cortez Road West Bradenton

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avenue for the employees to take their ideas and run with them. This group would like to shed the red tape and bring forth well-developed ideas directly to our deci-sion makers for final approval.

No meeting has been scheduled, however an e-mail we be sent out to all the commit-tee members for final input to be presented at the May 19th Rising Stars meeting.

Rising Stars Technology CommitteeChairperson: Matt Arriaga, Information Technology

The Rising Stars Technology Com-mittee will focus on opportunities brought forward by the people using technology at Manatee County. The team will be dynamic and agile as it defines itself and re-sponds to changing technology needs at the County.

Some of the ideas that have been presented so far are:

• Introducing new and useful software like EverNote

• Hosting Technology Seminars

• Put people together that are working on the same technology problems.

Rising Stars Mentoring CommitteeChairperson: Kinyata Love, Commu-nity Services

The Mentoring Committee wants to implement tangible ways to show employees that they are valued and that the future of the organization includes them by realizing opportu-nities that will foster personal devel-

opment, increase networking opportuni-ties, amplify morale and augment career development.

The next meeting will be May 16, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Community Services Conference Room (3rd Fl).

HR CornerFour Generations, One WorkplacePart 3- Generation X (Born between 1965-1981)

By Simone Peterson, Neighborhood ServicesThis is part three of a four part series. To read Part 1 – Traditionalists or Part 2 – Baby Boomers see the January 2011 issue or the February 2011 issue respectively.

Technology was the CD. Melrose Place was the show to catch on the tube. Michael Jordan was the talk of the sports world and time at work was defined by the phrase “why does it matter as long as I get the work done?”[1]

Generation Xers were born between 1965-1981. Gen X’ers account for approximately 30 percent of the workforce (49 million people).[2] To place this in perspective, according to Manatee County Human Resources Department, Gen X’ers make up 27 percent (450 employees) of the County’s workforce.

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What Shaped ThemThe Challenger Disaster, the collapse of the Berlin Wall, MTV, Desert Storm, mass media and Exxon Valdez are just some shared experiences between Gen X’ers.[10] This generation is also known by

some key generational experts as the “Lost Generation” being that they were former latchkey kids. [6] This generation’s parents also experienced a higher percentage of divorces thus beginning the breakdown of the nuclear family.

During the time Gen X’ers were becoming adults, they witnessed the disappoint-ments of their parents and others who lost their jobs and/or pensions in the economic downturn. This caused Gen X’ers to not feel loyal to an employer and turned them into skeptics and cynics when it came to their careers. Instead of placing their faith in the com-pany, they make sure that they take of themselves by ensuring that no matter what the company decides to do, they will always be able to find work by making sure they are highly trained and skilled.

In the WorkplaceGen X can be characterized as productive, independent workers. They are a compa-ny’s risk-takers who value technology, diversity, fun and informality. [2] Many tend to be output-focused and outcome-orient-ed.[8] As long as the task gets done, that’s all that matters to a Gen X’er. When it comes to communicating with peers, it will preferably take place via e-mail as they view most meetings as a waste of time.

After seeing how Baby Boomers worked themselves ragged, Gen X view work as secondary to their lives outside the office.[3] When at work, they want to make sure they are on top of their game by being highly trained and the best of the best. Gen X’ers want challenging, diverse and meaningful work. The environment is just as important

as the work involved. They want to enjoy their work environment and the people in it.[7]

Strengths and ChallengesAdaptability is a strength that Gen X’ers possess. [4] They are able to change and take advantage of the ever-changing work-place. If something new is implemented in the workforce, they are one of the first that want to be trained. Being techno-literate is also a highly valuable skill they have. [5] They like to use technology in their work and personal lives.

As stated before, Gen X’ers can be highly critical and cynical of the company they work for and upper management. They take on a “prove it to me” stance. [9] One of the ways to overcome this is by framing situations in their best interest. [15] Ex-plain why it is important to them and what skill or lesson they will develop or learn from the job or task. If you frame it in terms of what the company wants, needs or gains they won’t be as receptive.

Although they can be agents of change, Gen X’ers sometimes don’t go about imple-menting that change per company policy. Although they mean well, going against the status quo can cause problems for other people involved.

How to Manage and Identify With Genera-tion X

Follow Up, Follow Through & Get to the Point [12]

X’ers value their time. After working on a project, they would like feed-back in a timely manner so they can pursue other projects. Also, when assigning work or meeting with a Gen Xer, they don’t need be to puffed up unnecessarily. Give them the task, be blunt and let them run with it.

Four Generations, One Workplace-

Generation X Sources

[2][3][4][5][15]Monteiro, John.

Managing Genera-tional Differences in the Workplace. New York State Personnel

Council. Empire State Plaza, New York, New

York. 25 Oct. 2006. Lecture.

[9][10][11][12][14]Boyer, Lonn. Madera

County, Human Resources, n.d. Web.

12 Jan 2011.

[6][7][8][13] Generational

Diversity in the Workplace.” N.p.,

2/25/2011. Web. 3 Mar 2011.

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Be Prepared to Answer Why [11]

Gen X’ers like to challenge the status quo or just in general want to know why a company conducts business the way it does. Don’t view it as insubordination. Remember, this generation will be taking over supervisory roles once the Baby Boomers retire. They want to know what kind of company they will be inheriting when the time comes.

Give Them SpaceBeing that Gen Xers are some of the highest skilled employees in the workforce, give them their space.[14] No one likes a micromanager. If they need assistance, they will come to you for help.

Lighten Up [13]

If you manage a Gen X’er, don’t take yourself seriously, because more than likely the Gen X employee doesn’t. If you have to spend 8+ hours of your waking hours at work, make it somewhat enjoyable.

Want to toss in your 2¢?Did the experts hit the

mark on your generation? Let us

know what you think! Send us an e-mail at

manateezine@mymanatee.org.

E-mailers will remain anonymous

Desoto Parade 2011: A "proud” success!

The Desoto Parade Float Committee would like to thank everyone who helped out during our fundraisers. Because of the hard work and support of fellow employees, we represented Manatee County Government with pride during the Desoto Parade on April 30.

The Desoto Parade theme (“The stars are out the parade is now, come on Bradenton let’s be proud) inspired the County’s float theme, “We’re Proud of Our Parks.” Using fundraiser money, our float showed residents the variety of sports you can play in our parks.

If you would like to be a part of the 2012 Desoto Parade Float Committee, contact Simone Peterson, x6929.

(top l to r) Commissioner Bustle

Luz McQuistonEdie Bustle

Deidra RuthMarianne Lopata

Commissioner Whitmore

(bottom l to r) Simone Peterson

Peyt DewarCheri Coryea

Commissioner Chappie

Commuter Services Kick Off

By Brenda Rogers, Community ServicesWednesday, April 13 the Manatee County Green Team, along with representatives from the City of Bradenton, the Judicial Center, the Constitu-tional Officers, the Chamber of Commerce and downtown businesses hosted the FDOT Com-muter Services Kick Off.

The event, held on the Courthouse lawn, started very early as the Property Management team met around 6:30 am to set up tables, tents, and displays featuring educational information.

The focus of the day was to create awareness and emphasize transportation alternatives for travel to and from work. While the target audience was downtown em-ployees, many visitors partici-pated in the festivities. The grill team from the Manatee Area Convention Cen-ter served 600 hamburgers and hotdogs in about an hour and a half.

Manatee Area Transit offered free bus rides to Kick Off participants, introducing more than 100 people to the possibility of using transit for downtown transportation. Departments shared their educational message with participants and downtown visitors, encouraging visits to parks, preserves and libraries for “green” activities.

At the end of the day 594 individuals had regis-tered with FDOT Commuter Services to receive information on carpooling and alternative

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modes of transportation including biking and walking. Over 100 employ-ees participated in the fitness walks conducted by Employee Health Ben-efits, and hundreds learned more about their county government through the educational exhibits.

Door prize winners have been posted on the INET and announced via emails. We are still waiting for FDOT to provide the names of the 2 Grand Prize Winners. Thanks to everyone who supported the event!

Door Prize Winners

1. Ryder Bikes - Bicycle Repair $60 value – Ryan Beggy (Public Works)2. Ryder Bikes - Bicycle Repair $60 value - Robert Bowling (Utilities) 3. Natural Resources Department -Kayak Trip – Jon Betcher (Bldg & Development Services)4. VPSI sponsored BP Gas Card $25 – Alberto Vazquez (Clerk of Courts)5. BJ’s Lunch bag – Kenneth Hawke (Community Services) 6. BJ’s Lunch bag – Mindy Orrill (MCG – Property Mgmnt)7. BJ’s Lunch Bag – Cheryl Comstock (Supervisor of Elections)8. BBT Buccaneer’s tote – Stef Bell (City of Bradenton Utilities)9. Aluminum Water Bottle – Jan Hilker (Tax Collectors)10. Aluminum Water Bottle – Robin Scalera (Property Appraisers)

The Final Word"...the importance of education and training for our workforce."

In recent weeks many of you have asked questions about employee compensa-tion for extracurricular teams and programs, including the Rising Stars group. While the Rising Stars may be unique in that it occasionally meets after hours, it is no different than any other extracurricular group that meets to improve the organization or our employees.

Since my arrival as County Administrator in 2007 and throughout many diffi-cult budgeting years, I have emphasized the importance of education and train-ing for our workforce. It has always been my belief that an investment in our employees is an investment in the organization, and so I am supportive of most efforts to improve and broaden employee skill sets and creden-tials. Employee groups such as Women in Government, Toastmasters, the Green Team, BEST and others are fantastic resources that not only enable employees to cultivate talents and interests, but also provide a great venue to interact and learn from people across the organization.

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Professional Organizations in Manatee County GovernmentBringing Efficiency and Ser-vice Together (BEST)is a collaborative group for staffers who have been charged with examining and improving county business processes through the discipline of Business Process Management (BPM).

The BEST Team on the iNet

Green Teamis an interdepartmental group of Manatee County employees making a positive impact on how Manatee County’s day-to-day operations affect our natural resources.

The Green Team on the iNet

Rising StarsThe Rising Stars aim to create an engaged workforce by involving employees in strategic discussions and connecting employees throughout the organization with programs and events to develop leaders for the long term success of Mana-tee County.

Rising Stars on the iNet

Toastmasters/Power Speakers of Manatee County Govern-mentThe Toastmasters program offers many benefits that help people in all walks of life. As a result of participating in Toast-masters, you will: • Increase your self-confidence • Become a better speaker • Become a better leader • Communicate more effectively

Power Speakers of MCG on the iNet

Florida Women in GovernmentFWG, Inc. is a non-profit, self-sustaining organization dedicated to the professional and educational development of individu-als employed in the government sector.

The organization is open to any govern-ment employee in the state of Florida.

Florida Women in Government on the Web

To encourage participation in these groups and programs, an employee’s attendance at Rising Stars and other extracurricular groups related to County business is com-pensable time worked. In other words, whenever there is an event or meeting during an employee’s regularly scheduled work hours, the employee may attend with the approval of a manager or director. Time spent traveling between the work-place and an extracurricular event or meet-ing which occurs during the employee’s regularly scheduled workday is also com-pensable.

However, travel between an event and home or some other location other than the employee’s work site is not compensable travel time. If the event is held after hours, it is on the employee’s time and should not be counted as part of a workweek or to-ward overtime pay. If an employee uses a personal vehicle to travel between his or her workplace and an extracurricular event that takes place during the employee’s scheduled workday, then a mileage request may be submitted for that travel.

An employee’s primary workload should always be his or her first priority. Employ-ees should only attend the extracurricular teams, programs and events with their manager’s approval, if time permits and if other work is not more pressing. Employ-ees should also be careful not to abuse these privileges by devoting more time to them than to the important business of their role in the County.

Managers and directors have been empow-ered and should use discretion to make decisions on whether an employee may attend these events. Only department directors have the authority to approve flex time.

Common sense should always prevail when determining how any of these extracur-ricular functions relate to the workweek. And employees should communicate regu-larly and work with their managers or directors to determine the best use of both the County’s time and the employee’s time.