CMPL hosting Vision Network meetings
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — The Macomb Library for the Blind and Print Disabled will host Vision Network meetings this summer at the Clinton-Macomb Public Library. These informal and informational sessions are for those who are blind or have low vision and their caretakers. Meetings will take place on second and fourth Tuesdays at the Main Library at 40900 Romeo Plank Road in Clinton Township from 10 a.m. to noon.
The first meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 27, with a discussion on transportation with Leslie Verstraete from the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation. Mike Powell will discuss technical vs nontechnical low vision solutions on Tuesday, July 11. On Tuesday, July 25, the Macomb Library for the Blind and Print Disabled will present an audio-described showing of “Where the Crawdads Sing.” New technology to help browse the library will be showcased on Tuesday, Aug. 8, and a discussion about alternative phone solutions will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 22.
Registration is not required to attend the Vision Network events. For more information about Macomb Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, visit cmpl.org/mlbpd or call (586) 286-1580.
DNR tips on tree hydration
STATEWIDE — Planted a tree this spring? Now is the time to get smart about keeping that tree from heatwave dehydration.
“Abnormally hot and dry conditions mean your newly planted trees are probably thirsty,” said Kevin Sayers, urban and community forestry program manager with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “Make sure any trees planted in the past year are getting at least 10 to 20 gallons of water a week until regular precipitation returns. Your trees will appreciate the drink.”
Younger trees are at greater risk in heat waves due to their roots not being as settled or deep as older trees, making groundwater harder to reach. Even older trees are at risk of dehydration in the summer heat, which could lead to a higher vulnerability to diseases and winter breakage. Deciduous trees — those that lose their leaves in fall — show drought stress through curling or drooping leaves, and the leaves may turn brown at the margins, fall off early or exhibit early fall color. Evergreen needles may turn yellow, then red or brown.
The DNR recommends watering newly established trees weekly and established trees every two to three weeks. The soil should be saturated at least 10 to 12 inches deep. Applying 3 to 4 inches of mulch under the canopy can also help trees retain moisture.
Prosecutor’s Office takes seven awards
MACOMB COUNTY — The office of Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido has won seven Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo).
This is the second year in a row the office has taken seven NACo awards.
“This national recognition shows remarkable progress is taking place in the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office where significant and positive changes continue,” Macomb County Board of Commissioners Chairman Don Brown said in a statement.
The NACo Achievement Awards honor county programs aimed at improving services for residents. The seven awards won by the Prosecutor’s Office were for:
• Death case dashboard for improving administration of cases involving death.
• Paperless victim rights requests.
• Payment processing technology for improving criminal case “discovery digital media fee” processing.
• Converting the digital evidence platform to staff training platform.
• Electronic victim advocate assistance requests.
• Streamlining information transfers with instant warrant and courtroom manual updates to assistant prosecutors.
• Improved weekend warrant authorization with jail duty tracker.
“Together, we celebrate these achievements as a reflection of our collective commitment to serving and protecting the residents of our county,” Lucido said in a statement. “These accolades stand as a testament to the remarkable efforts and dedication of our assistant prosecutors and staff. We are in an environment conducive to innovation and excellence, allowing us to implement groundbreaking programs and initiatives that positively impact our community.”