Maricopa Currents: County News for You

Maricopa County Internal sent this bulletin at 08/02/2021 09:51 AM MST

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COUNTY NEWS ROOM | AUGUST 2, 2021

School's Back From Summer

Remember, parents, what last school year was like? Or have you blocked it out? With the 2021-2022 academic year getting started, Maricopa County is doing its part to make this school year better.

Maricopa County is a strong partner with our school community.

For starters, there's the School Superintendent's Office. They provide services supporting school governing board elections, bond and override elections, appointments, and school finance. They also maintain homeschool and private school records.

Our Human Services Department runs Head Start programs to give young children the skills they need to be successful in school and life.

The Library District offers online and in-person resources to help students thrive. Families can even "Book a Librarian" to help with homework!

And Public Health works closely with schools every year, but especially now during the pandemic, to help school decision makers make informed choices to keep staff and students safe.

So three cheers for county staff working to make this school year a safe, successful one for students of all ages!

HEADLINE STORIES

All About Delta

Researchers continue to learn more about the Delta variant of COVID-19, and unfortunately, what they're uncovering is pretty concerning. For one, this strain of the virus is much more contagious than others.

The good news is vaccines work! They reduce the likelihood of getting COVID-19 and they are especially effective at preventing serious illness if you do get the virus, whether it's the delta variant or another strain. You can find a place to get your shot(s) by visiting Public Health’s newly updated vaccine site map.

Remember: full vaccination means two doses Moderna or Pfizer OR one dose of J&J. It takes two weeks after your last dose of any COVID-19 vaccine for your body to build maximum immune protection.

Regardless of vaccination status, if you're sick, stay home. And remember: masks have been proven to provide an extra layer of protection against COVID-19.

“Just the Facts” Website Combats Misinformation

Have you seen any of the claims floating around about Maricopa County elections? Our Elections Department launched JustTheFacts.Vote to address questions and misconceptions about the 2020 General Election. The website also explains the processes and procedures that staff follow every election to ensure the safety, security, and integrity of the vote.

The website demonstrates the County’s commitment to transparency and to educating and empowering voters with timely, accurate information. We encourage you to share it with friends and family members who may have questions!

FEATURED ARTICLES

Court is Back in Session

During the pandemic, access to Judicial Branch facilities was limited to protect the health of staff and the public. The public now has full access to physical court and judicial branch locations. Health checks are required for visitors and masks must be worn in designated areas. Some services are still offered virtually.

Flood Control and MCDOT Water Drive

Flood Control and MCDOT challenged each other to see which department could collect the most water bottles for the Human Services Campus. Collectively they collected 25,372 bottles or 3,084 gallons of water to donate to the Campus, enough to provide water for one week!

Congratulations to MCDOT for collecting the most water, and a big thanks to everyone who donated water to help those in need. That's the County spirit of giving!

Fuel Up with E-85

There are approximately 700 County owned vehicles with the capability of using E-85 fuel, a form of flex fuel with a high level of ethanol. This fuel provides accelerated power and, according to our Air Quality Department, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 15 to 34%.

It is currently available at the Durango Equipment Services fueling station at 2750 S. 27th Ave. Check with your department’s vehicle liaison to determine if your County vehicle qualifies and is registered to use E-85 fuel.

CAPTION CONTEST

Congratulations, Lisa Blyler!

Maybe Joy Johnson should change Jazz Kitty's name to Boss Kitty. Lisa Blyler from Flood Control astutely assumed what's happening in this office space. Thanks Lisa, and everyone else who submitted a caption!

Now for this issue's photo...

Submit your caption online

It really is the "Dog Days of Summer!" Kelly Laird, Clerk of the Court, has a clever way to make sure Nala Angel keeps cool this summer. What's she thinking as she gets soaked? Use the link above to send us your caption!

Share your favorite pet pic with us! Email us and we may include it in a future issue of Currents.