Ramkota Inn/Aberdeen Convention Center Aberdeen, South Dakota
May 6, 7 & 8, 2014
Monday, May 6, 2014, EVENING SESSION
The Opening Session was preceded by Social Time and Entertainment
by the Aberdeen Community Theatre Improv. Troupe
The Opening Session of the 48th annual SD Federation of NARFE
Convention was called to order in the
Theater at 7:40PM by Pres. Roger Youngman. After a Moment of
Silence, Posting of the Colors was presented by the Warner Legion
Post 137 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance by Aberdeen Host
Chapter President, Patsy Weigel. The National Anthem was sung by
Hank Bowker. Pres. Youngman welcomed the membership to Aberdeen for
their 48th Annual Convention. He reminded us that this was “Public
Service Recognition Week.” The Welcome to Aberdeen was given by
Mayor Mike Levsen. He thanked us for our service as Federal Workers
and supports us. Response by Patsy Weigel. A Proclamation by Mayor
Levsen, making May 1 – 7, 2014 Public Service Recognition Week was
read. Mayor Levsen was thanked for his support. Presentation of
Chapter Banners. The name of each Chapter President, the chapter’s
charter date and current membership number, were announced by Pres.
Youngman, as a representative of those chapters went forward to
stand by their Chapter banner. Pres. Youngman introduced Federation
Officers - 1st V.P John Phelan, 2nd V.P. Maeve King, Secretary
Nancy Dowding, Treasurer Dave Matson and Immed. Past Pres. Bernie
Christner. District Reps. are Jeff Oltman District I, Patsy Weigel
District II, Jackie Bjorke District III and Karen Phelan District
IV. Also introduced were Region V V.P. Carol Ek and Region V
Alzheimer’s Coordinator, Janice Neuschafer. Sargents’at Arms are
Roger Roth and Larry Heidt. Pres. Youngman announced that there
will be fines of $25.00 each for anyone with a cell phone turned on
that rings. The fines would be split between Alzheimer’s and
NARFE-PAC. The name of each Chapter President, the chapter’s
charter date and current membership number, were announced by Pres.
Youngman, as a representative of those chapters went forward to
stand by their Chapter banner.
Pres. Youngman introduced our Keynote Speaker, Carol Ek. She
thanked us for inviting her and talked
about the FON and the following: - Realignment of the States from
10 Regions to 5 Regions. Effective Nov. 1, 2014, Region V will be
changed to Region III and will add the states of Illinois, Indiana,
Michigan and Wisconsin to the 7 states originally in Region V
(Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and
South Dakota. This will total 11 States in Region III. So we would
have 5 Regional Directors plus 2 Appointed Directors. Going from
the cost of 10 Regions to 5 would mean $175,000.00 saved. This
realignment is currently non-negotiable. There are rumors of
resolutions to the 2014 National Convention Page 1 of 14
to change back to 10 regions. -She shared Greetings from HQ NARFE.
There will be two presentations tomorrow covering the Future of
NARFE (FON) in a SKYPE Go To Meeting with Bruce Coleman and
Legislation with Sarah Weissmann. After tomorrow’s presentations,
Carol will pass out a survey for us to fill out. She will take
these surveys back to the NEB with the reactions. -Membership. In
1986 NARFE membership was around 500,000 members. At last count,
NARFE membership is down to 249,392 members. 65% of NARFE
operational funds are derived from NARFE membership dues, therefore
when NARFE loses members, NARFE loses money. HQ NARFE Treasurer,
Dick Thissen, has done a fantastic job getting people to donate
money, but we can’t plan on donations. $10 million was made this
year by donations for the cards, calendars and etc. We’ve got to
recruit new members. Pres. Youngman suggests we carry a membership
application with us and let prospective members know we want their
support. -National Officers would be changed from 4 to 2 officers.
Retaining the President and Treasurer and doing away with the Vice
President and Secretary positions. Currently the National President
is in charge of Public Relations and Legislation (visits to Capitol
Hill). The Treasurer is responsible for the Finances (dues,
payments, funds into the organizations). The Secretary is the
Membership Chair and the Vice President is in charge of technology
(IT). We need a CEO for continuity. We lose it when we get new
officers. After the change the CEO would be in charge of running
the operation. -We will be asked to allow the NEB continued
development of the FON. What we will see in the presentation is
what authority the FON gives the NEB to move forward using the FON.
-Carol encourages everyone who can attend to go to this National
2014 Convention. It is a most important one because of the
decisions will be made. -E-Chapters will change. -The NARFE
Legislative Office visits the “HILL” every day. They are in the top
“10” in the nation for Legislative Groups. There are a lot of
battles to fight. C-PI is in the background right now. If we are
asked to write to our Congressional people “DO IT”. -Region V
currently has 318,613 emloyees (potential members). 19,770 are in
NARFE. That’s 6.4%. The highest Region in the U.S. SD has a
potential of 20,977. 1,470 are NARFE members. That’s 7.3%. 483 of
these members have e-mail in NARFE for GEMS. We need to get away
from the fear of using computers. - The NEB can’t change what’s in
the National By-Laws right now until the 2016 Convention. Session
Recessed at 8:00PM. We will reconvene with the business session at
8:00AM, Wed. May 7, 2014 in the Theater.
Page 2 of 14
Wednesday, May 7, 2014 BUSINESS SESSION
Following door prizes, Pres. Youngman reconvened the Business
Session at 8:05AM in the Theater
followed by the invocation, given by Ken Thompson, and the Pledge
of Allegiance led by Nancy Dowding.
Announcements: a. If any Memorial Certificates are missing, please
be sure the member’s name has been submitted to HQ NARFE to list on
the OAM. We will try to have certificates read from March to March
of each year. This year certificates were done for any member who
may have been missed in the past as well. b. Introductions: Pres.
Youngman introduced new Northern Hills Chapter (1635) President
Daryl Zimmerman, Region V Alzheimer’s Coordinator Janice Neuschafer
and our new SD Federation Alzheimer’s Coordinator Jackie Bjorke.
Pres. Youngman asked that all “Veterans” stand and be recognized.
Also introduced and recognized were the “Past Presidents” in
attendance: Immediate Past President Bernie Christner Ken Thompson
Josephine Waldner Gerald Cornelius Patsy Weigel Sharon Mitchell
could not attend c. Cellphones should be turned off or put on
vibrate. There is a $5.00 fine per ring. Fines will be divided
between Alzheimer’s and NARFE-PAC.
The Memorial Service for 2013 deceased Chapter members was
conducted by Joyce Fluke. Names were
read by Patsy Weigel. As each name was read, a representative from
his/her Chapter was presented with a certificate to be given to a
surviving family member, if possible.
Roll Call of officers was taken by Secretary N. Dowding. Executive
Board members present were: Pres.
Youngman, 1st VP J. Phelan, 2nd VP King, Sec. Dowding, Treas. D.
Matson, Immed. Past Pres. Christner, Dist. I Rep. Oltman, Dist. II
Weigel, Dist. III Testerman and Dist. IV K. Phelan. Appointed
officers present were: Schnieder (Services) and S. Matson
(Alzheimer’s). Absent was Sharon Mitchell (Legislative). Public
Relations is currently vacant. Pres. Youngman introduced Region V
VP Carol Ek.
Mary Anne Krause, Credentials Chair, gave a preliminary report of
50 delegates, all with credentials, as of
5:00PM yesterday. All 16 chapters are represented, 4 with proxy
delegates. There were 4 Alternate delegates, 13 delegates-at-large
(5 are Past Federation Presidents), and 7 guests for a total of 74
attendees.
Larry Wilbur (Rules Committee co-chair), presented the Standing
Rules for the Convention. He made note
of the change for item #3. Eliminate “only by raising the voting
cards when requested by the Chair”. On Motion (01-05/07/2014) of L.
Wilbur, 2nd by K. Phelan, the Standing Rules (as revised) were
approved and adopted for the 2014 Convention. Ken Thompson is also
co-chair for the committee.
Parliamentarian is Wayne Testerman.
Sec. N. Dowding has already sent the 2013 Convention minutes to the
SD Fed. Executive Board, Appointed Officers, Chapter Presidents and
Secretaries to review. She asked to dispense with the reading of
the minutes. On Motion (02-05/07/2014) of P. Weigel, 2nd by J.
Phelan, it was voted to approve the 2013 Convention minutes as
written. Approved. There was no correspondence. Page 3 of 14
Written copies of the Officer’s Reports are available for anyone
wishing to read them. Any questions will be addressed after the
District caucuses. Jackie Bjorke, SD Federation Alzheimer’s
Coordinator, explained the Silent Auction on behalf of Alzheimer’s
which is taking place in the Prairie Room during the Convention.
Check out the items on display, and bid.
Future of NARFE (FON) (SKYPE). Carol Ek passed out spreadsheets of
the Power Point slides Bruce
Coleman (FON Committee member from Iowa) will be using in his
presentation. This is only a vision until the 2014 Convention. She
introduced Bruce. Bruce encouraged us to read the April 2014
edition of the NARFE Insider. It is the “Special Future of NARFE
Edition”. It gives a good review of FON. It contains a message from
NARFE Pres. Beaudoin which includes his Sep. 2013 GEMS message
quote “The current NARFE organization is unsustainable and the
long-established NARFE mission is in grave danger.” Some of the
items the 2014 convention delegates will vote on: -Reduce National
Officers from 4 to 2. -Making Chapter Membership optional -Open
Membership -Endorsing the Future of NARFE concept Bruce Coleman
continued with his power point presentation. It showed a regional
map of the 1-5 Regions. The breakdown of Region/ Congressional
Districts/ Population of Federal Employees: I 123 91,000 II 81
41,000 III 78 41,000 IV 74 33,000 V 79 41,000 Each Region would
have one vote according to HQ NARFE. The Future of NARFE (FON)
Committee was authorized by the National Executive Board on July 9,
2013. FON members were appointed by President Beaudoin on August
13, 2013. The FON committee members met in Sep. and Jan. and did
studies in between. All members brought back research and
recommendations to the NEB. New Mission Statement: -As a champion
of good government and public service. - To support legislation
beneficial to current and potential federal annuitants and to
oppose legislation contrary to their interest. -To promote the
general welfare of current and potential federal annuitants by
advising them with respect to their rights under retirement laws
and regulations. -To cooperate with other organizations and
associations in furtherance of these general objectives. Vision:
The Association is envisioned as a leaner, more mission-focused
organization, with updated branding, an enhanced message about our
mission and professional management. Make advocacy a new goal.
Facts in NARFE History: - NARFE increased membership by 200,000
between 1978 and 1982. Membership in the mid-80’s was almost
495,000. NARFE has lost almost 250,000 members since the mid-80’s.
About 2% of the members are under the age of 55, and more than 40%
are over the age of 75. -NARFE has closed more than 1,000 chapters.
(There are currently 13, 008 chapters) -NARFE HW has gone from over
100 staff to the present staff of 49, plus 4 National Resident
Officers. -NARFE is a dues-driven organization. When we lose
members we lose dues. Page 4 of 14
-NARFE dues pay for approximately 68-69% of expenses. NARFE
currently has 5 organizational layers: 1) Chapters 2) District/Area
V.P. 3) Federation Presidents 4) Regional V.P. 5) Headquarters
(includes NRO’s) Comparing Current and Future NARFE. There will be
11 states included in Region 3. The non-resident 7 member NARFE
Board of Directors will consist of the 5 elected Regional VPs and 2
appointed members (from outside sources) named from the 5 elected
members of the board. The VPs will elect the non-resident President
and Treasurer. Criteria that FON Committee Used for
Recommendations: - Futher NARFE’s mission -Make NARFE moe effective
in achieving our mission. - Impact on membership strength. -
Funding necessary to support NARFE’s membership and goals.
-Long-term goals for the long haul. -Immediate action
Recommendations 1-5: 1. Engage in viable strategic planning on an
on-going basis 2. Conduct a comprehensive branding study, to
consider name change/logo. 3. Enhance NARFE’s mission to include
championing good government and public service. 4. Establish
regionally-elected Board of Directors of five NARFE members. 5.
Provide for representative election of Board of Directors under new
structure and governance. Recommendations 6-10: 6. Allow for two
additional appointed Board Members. 7. Establish term limits for
Board Members. 8. Board members elect Board President and Board
Treasurer. 9. Reduce four National Resident Officers to two
National non-resident Officers. 10. Use funding recovered from
reduction of the number of National Officers and change to
non-residency to hire professional marketing staff and hire an
Executive Director. (Approximately $503,000.00 can be saved by
eliminating the HQ VP and Secretary along with reducing the Regions
from 10 to 5). Recommendations 11-15: 11. Have a removal process
for all elected and appointed positions. 12. Establish the
regionally-elected Board Members’ function as policy makers. 13.
Board of Directors will set annual National membership dues as part
of the organizational budget process. 14. Salaries of the Board
President and Board Treasurer will be commensurate with their
redefined roles. 15. Institute term limits of three terms for the
Board President and the Board Treasurer. Recommendations 16-20: 16.
Have a removal process for the Board President and the Board
Treasurer. 17. Hire a professional Executive Director to manage the
NARFE Headquarters. 18. Transition from the Federation structure to
a state advocacy structure. 19. Curtail Federation funds, and
migrate funding to State and other Representatives, used for
congressional legislative advocacy. 20. State Representatives and
two other Representatives to become compensated. Recommendations
21-25: 21. State Representatives to elect the Board of Directors,
using a proportional voting system. 22. Establish Congressional
District Leaders in each Congressional District. 23. Congressional
District Leaders will be reimbursed by NARFE HQ for reasonable
expenses. 24. Direct election by voting NARFE members of CDLs. 25.
Structure NARFE’s election process to coincide with the U.S.
Congressional election process. Page 5 of 14
Recommendations 26-30: 26. Congressional District Leaders elect
State Representatives, or other similar Representatives, using a
proportional voting system. 27. Local Chapter membership will
become optional. 28. NARFE members are automatically members of a
Congressional District action team. 29. NARFE membership is open to
all supporting its mission. 30. NARFE should increase its
professional marketing staff. Recommendations 31-35: 31. Open NARFE
membership to youth, up to age 26, at a reduced rate. (e.g.
$10.00/year.) 32. Vigorously pursue non-dues revenue sources. 33.
NARFE should seriously consider establishing a 501(c)(3)
foundation. 34. Conventions should transition into conferences and
other events.. 35. NARFE must use the most beneficial technology
and communications methods possible. The eleven states in Region
III were broken down in population, representation and votes etc.
South Dakota as an example: Members Chapters Cong. Dist. Leaders
Cong. Dist. Cong. Dist. Rep Votes % Reg. III % 1.652 16 4 1 1)Noem
1,584 100% 4% Questions on the duties of the CEO and Board of
Directors. The CEO is hired and answers to the Board of Directors.
The CEO hires, fires and supervises the HQ NARFE Staff as well as
setting policies and making recommendations to the Board of
Directors. The CEO’s salary could be in the $200,000 - $250,000
range per year. Carol Ek and the SD Fed. Convention delegates
applauded Bruce Coleman for his presentation, even though it was
inaudible at times. Pres. Youngman reminded us of the NARFE-PAC
Challenge. Coffee Break and Door Prizes GEICO spokesperson Kim
Kluever presented prizes to Jeff Oltman (weather radio) and Joann
Weller (Gym Bag) Reconvene Business Session 10:35AM
Legislative Report (SKYPE) Maeve King (SD Legislative Chair)
introduced Sarah Weissmann, Legislative
Assistant from HQ NARFE. Maeve and Sarah converse monthly about
Protect America’s Heartbeat (PAH). Items touched on were: -Small 1%
pay increase. -3 year Federal pay freeze. -Increase in retirement
contributions. -Sequestration and furloughs. -Jan. 2 year FY 14-15
budget agreement. -Increased retirement contributions for new
hires. -President’s Budget getting little attention. -No Senate
budget this year. House working on one, but still unclear. -No
“Grand Bargain” or big budget fights until FY 16. -Chained CPI has
no movement in Congress. Not in President’s Budget this year.
Always on the table though. -No increase in retirement
contributions for current Federal workers. -No negative changes to
FEHBP. -Backpay provided to Federal workers furloughed during the
government shutdown in Oct. Unknown financial consequence. Page 6
of 14
- Senate Postal Reform Act of 2014 (S.1486). NARFE opposes this
Act. It sharply reduces benefits for all injured workers (FECA)
Allows for elimination of FERS pension for new hires Requires
enrollment in Medicare parts A and B Passed committees in Feb.
Floor action unlikely -Rep. Camp bill (H.R.1780) would remove
Federal employees from FEHBP and place them in health exchanges
created under the Affordable Care Act. -NEW LEGISLATION: H.R. 4306
(FAIR Act) would increase Federal employee pay by 3.3% in 2015.
H.R. 3744, Federal Employee Pay Restoration Act. Back pay for
Federal workers furloughed by Sequestration. H.R. 4202, CPI-E Act
of 2014, determines that COLAs should be based on prices and
prevalence of Seniors purchasing. Protect America’s Heartbeat
(PAH). Get NARFE members involved in the legislation that affects
them. Go to the website www.protectamericasheartbeat.org to look up
the “Toolkit” Carol Ek and the delegation thanked Sarah for her
informative presentation.
NARFE-PAC Awards: Maeve King presented the following awards:
- Largest total Chapter contributions to NARFE-PAC – Aberdeen
Chapter 0584 with $1,417 - Chapter with the largest per member
contributions to NARFE-PAC – Hot Springs Chapter 0810 with an
average of $10.83 per member donation - Chapter with the largest
percentage of members contributing to NARFE-PAC – Hot Springs
Chapter 0810 with 35% of its members contributing - Chapters
meeting the Federation goal of $2.00 per member contributions to
NARFE-PAC: Sioux Falls (0201), Rapid City (0336), Aberdeen (0584),
Hot Springs (0810), Kampeska (0894), Pheasant (0899), Ft. Randall
(1987), Custer (2200), and Sisseton (2220)
LUNCHEON Break in Prairie Room Door Prizes Blue Cross/Blue Shield
spokesperson, Melissa Andreson presented the following prizes Maeve
King (umbrella) and Lila Rice (picnic set) Reconvene Business
Session at 1:30PM
Alzheimer’s Research Awards: Jackie Bjorke thanked South Dakota for
donating $13,321.00 to
Alzheimer’s Research. She also thanked Sandi Matson for her service
as previous SD Federation’s Alzheimer’s Coordinator. She asked the
attending chapter Alzheimer’s chairs to stand for recognition. She
thanked those for helping set up and attending to the Silent
Auction. Jackie reminded us that the silent auction will close ½
hour before the Banquet. She presented the following awards to:
Chapter with the largest contribution of $4,521.00 is Rapid City
Chapter 0336. Chapter with the largest contribution per capita
(member) of $52.00 is Sisseton Chapter 2220. Janice Neuschafer,
Region V Alzheimer’s Coordinator, commented that in Dec. she had
received an email from Roger Youngman inviting her to our
convention. She explained what Alzheimer’s is and that it is the
most common type of dementia and a progressive disease. It is the
6th leading cause of death and the 5th to people 65 and older. She
went through the 10 signs of Alzheimer’s. There is no current cure.
Some treatments can slow it down. It is the most expensive disease
in America. It’s a Global epidemic that needs a Global solution.
Page 7 of 14
GEHA has, again, donated $5,000.00 for Alzheimer’s research (8
years contributing. As of March 3, 2014 NARFE donations have risen
to $10,790,909.57. She thanked us for our support.
OPEN SESSION: (Roger Youngman, Carol Ek and Maeve King) Q & A,
Statements, items and FON: - Term limits for board of directors.
Each one is elected for 2 years. Limited to five full or partial 2
year terms. -Delegate voting procedures. -Who is running for
National President? Dich Thissen and Ken Thomas. Webinar May 28,
2014. Get to know the candidates. -Sign onto the narfe website.
Write in questions to Pres. Beaudoin. - Carol Ek is currently the
only announced person running for Region III V.P. Before voting for
any one of the offices, ask what their experience is and how they
will represent us. We need thinkers and doers. -Jackie Bjorke –
proportional voting system. -SD has one CDL (Congressional District
Leader) who gets input from the chapters on who to vote for as
State President. The State Presidents in-turn elect the Board of
Directors. The 11 states in Region III would be represented by
their number of votes. -Stagger term limits. -May lose the
Federations eventually. Could lose chapters later on. We are
currently closing a lot of chapters. -We have to recruit new, young
members. -FON Recommendations 29 (NARFE Membership is Open to all
supporting its mission) and 31 (Open NARFE Membership to youth, up
to age 26, at a reduced rate, e.g. $10/year) are against the law.
Outsiders are not allowed. -Outsiders would be appointed to Board?
-What are cost estimates saved with changes in the Executive Board?
No one has exact knowledge. Would true figures. Unknown facts out
there. At the June Executive Board meeting we will receive
additional info. -Dues structure – Wayne Testerman – lifetime
members and dues withholding. Dues cannot be varied a membership
vote. -5 Regions are here becoming effective Nov. 1, 2014. There
will be an election for Region III V.P. There are several
resolutions submitted to the 2014 National Convention to take that
authority away from the NEB (changing 10 to 5 Regions). -The 5
elected Regional V.P.s and 2 appointed members will write job
description for CEO. -At the 2016 Convention, if the FON goes in as
planned, they will start with the changes. If FON is rejected, we
continue on the path we’re on now. Yes. Dick Thissen is in favor of
the plan going forward. -Why is Carol Ek running for Reg. III V.P.
Carol believes strongly in what she’s doing. It is a full time job
now and will only get bigger. She won’t know until this convention
if she’ll be running against anyone. -Region V has the highest
number of potential members with 318,613 Federal workers. SD has
19, 770 which is 6.4% of that potential. It’s up to us to get out
and tell them about NARFE. -Is the NARFE name and Logo “outdated”.
-29% of NARFE members are on GEMS. -Cannot change the mission
statement without the vote of members.
Maeve King reminded us of the NARFE-PAC Region V challenge. $415.00
collected so far at this convention.
Patsy Weigel shared the “Story of the Pheasant Sandwich”. During
WWII the town of Aberdeen set up a
Red Cross/USO Canteen at their train depot with free food and
service for troops that passed through (580,000 total). Rural
people brought in pheasants and came up with a recipe for pheasant
sandwiches. Learn more in a historical film, about 38 min. long
that they are selling for $10.00. Hopefully we can get this film
out to all the school children to see. She also mentioned the Open
House they were having on Page 8 of 14
May 17 from 1-5PM.
District Caucuses:
Dist. I - Rep. Jeff Oltman – Chapters: Ft. Randall, Mitchell, Sioux
Falls and Yankton Dist. II – Rep. Patsy Weigel – Chapters:
Aberdeen, Big Sioux, Kampeska, Sisseton Dist. III – Rep. Betty
Testerman – Chapters: Oahe, Pheasant, Pierre and Winner (Faulk Cty.
now closed) Dist. IV – Rep. Karen Phelan – Chapters: Custer, Hot
Springs, Northern Hills and Rapid City
Reconvene Business Session: District Caucuses Reports: District I –
Jeff Oltman was re-elected as District I Representative. 8 people
attended. They discussed the OAM and reports of member deaths to
OAM to keep up to date. Also discussed some of the FON. District I
donated $80.00 to NARFE-PAC during the caucus and earlier had
donated $80.00 for a total of $160.00. Fed. Pres. Youngman will add
$20.00. District II – Patsy Weigel reported 20 people attended. Jan
Bohling was elected as the new District II Representative. District
II donated $220.00 during the caucus with Pres. Youngman adding
$20.00. The District II Fall Meeting in Sep. is being coordinated
with Carol Ek’s itinerary. District III – Betty Testerman was
re-elected as District III Representative. About 12 people
attended. The FON report was discussed. $135.00 was donated to
NARFE-PAC including Pres. Youngman’s $20.00. District IV – Karen
Phelan was re-elected as District IV Representative. 20 people
attended. Discussed membership, 1st and 2nd notices. Access to
Officer’s Reports. Holding a District IV meeting before the
National Convention. District IV donated $180.00 to NARFE-PAC
including Pres. Youngman’s $20.00.
Nominating Committee Report: Patsy Weigel reported the following
slate as nominees for Federation
offices for 2014 – 2015: President – Roger Youngman, Aberdeen 1st
VP – John Bultsma, Sioux Falls 2nd VP – Maeve King, Aberdeen
Secretary – Nancy Dowding, Rapid City Treasurer – Glen “Dave”
Matson, Rapid City Election of Officers: Nominations for President
were called from the floor. Hearing no other nominations, on Motion
(03- 05/07/14) of P. Weigel, 2nd by K. Phelan and approved,
President Youngman was declared elected as President. Nominations
for 1st Vice-President were called from the floor. Sandi Matson
nominated John Phelan for 1st VP. Ballot vote. There are 50
Delegates and 13 Delegates-at-Large registered totaling 63 eligible
to vote. There were 45 Delegate ballots and 12 Delegate-at-Large
ballots handed out. Ballots were turned in to the “Teller
Committee” consisting of Erling (Punch) Podoll, Carol Reed and
Geraldine Crisman. After counting the ballots, John Phelan received
24 votes and John Bultsma received 33 votes. John Bultsma was
declared elected as 1st. VP. Nominations for 2nd VP were called
from the floor. Hearing no other nominations, on Motion
(04-05/07/14) of S. Matson, 2nd by N. Dowding and approved,
President Youngman declared Maeve E. King 2nd VP. Nominations for
Secretary were called from the floor. Hearing no other nominations,
on Motion (05-05/07/14) of M. King, 2nd J. Phelan and approved.
President Youngman declared Nancy L. Dowding Secretary. Nominations
for Treasurer were called from the floor. Hearing no other
nominations, on Motion (06-05/07/14) of K. Thompson, 2nd K. Phelan
and approved. President Youngman declared Glen (Dave) Matson
Treasurer. Announcements – We are reminded to pick up our chapter
banners before going home. There are copies of the Executive Board
Reports available if you’d like to view one. We are reminded that
the Page 9 of 14
Silent Auction will close in ½ hour. Maeve King gave a NARFE-PAC
donation update. Together, the Districts have donated $1,120.00.
Congratulations. The Federation raffle tickets are still being
sold. Meeting adjourned until evening Social Hour and
Banquet.
Wednesday, May 7, 2014 Evening Banquet Social Hour music was
provided by Melody Lane.
President Youngman welcomed everyone. The invocation was given by
Nancy Dowding and the Pledge of
Allegiance led by Maeve King.
Dinner was served.
Entertainment was by Joey Barnett, Magician.
Installation of the newly elected Executive Board officers and
District Reps. for 2014-2015 was conducted by
Region V VP, Carol Ek. Alzheimer’s: coordinator, Jackie Bjorke,
reported that the Silent Auction raised $1,292,99 for Alzheimer’s
research. She thanked us all. Please make your checks out to
NARFE/Alzheimer’s Research. Carol Ek presented Anniversary Awards
and letters signed by Pres. Joseph Beaudoin, National Headquarters
to: Daryl Zimmerman for Northern Hills, Chapter 1635, 35th
Anniversary John Bultsma for Sioux Falls, Chapter 0201, 60th
Anniversary
Recruitment Awards: Pres. Youngman presented the awards to the
following:
Large Chapter recruiting 4 new members was Sioux Falls Chapter 0201
– John Bultsma Chapter President Smaller Chapter recruiting 2 new
members was Sisseton Chapter 2220 – Marvin Olson Chapter
President
Federation Service Officer of the Year Award for South Dakota . A
letter signed by Pres. Joseph
Beaudoin, National Headquarters was presented by Pres. Youngman to
June Schnieder from the Sioux Falls Chapter 0201. June told us the
story of her and her twin sister traveling on a train during WWII
and receiving silver dollars from service men. The money eventually
paid their tuition to attend a school of nursing. They worked for
the VA for 52 years caring for veterans (in exchange for the
servicemen caring for them on the train). No you know the rest of
the Story.
Federation Raffle: Karen and John Phelan, co-chairs, reported this
raffle was not as good as the last one.
$1,008.00 was raised minus $350.00 for prizes and $76.95 other
expenses. This leaves $582.00 which will go into the SD Federation
treasury to help cover any Federation expenses. This is the only
fund raiser we have for the Federation treasury. Raffle Winners
were – 1st prize, $200 – Lois Olson from Sisseton 2nd prize,
$100.00 – Karen Youngman from Aberdeen 3rd prize - $50.00 – Karen
Phelan’s daughter Jackie.
Closing Remarks: Carol Ek mentioned donating filled baskets to the
National convention auction. She
thanked the chapters for the gift basket to open in her room. She
thanked us for inviting her Page 10 of 14
Janice Neuschafer thanked us for her gift basket and mentioned that
Region V is #2 in the nation for donations to Alzheimers. President
Youngman thanked everyone for coming.
Banquet concluded.
Wednesday, May 8, 2014, BUSINESS SESSION The Business Session
reconvened at 8:25AM, following drawings for door prizes. President
Youngman
called the meeting order and asked for a moment of silence. The
Pledge of Allegiance was led by Tres. Dave Matson.
Credentials Committee Report. Mary Anne Krause reported there are
50 delegates. All 16 chapters are
represented, 4 by proxy. There are 5 Alternates, 13
Delegates-At-Large, 7 visitors and guests for a total of 75
attendees
Treasurer’s Report and Budget Approval: Treasurer D. Matson
reported the Financial Statement as of
04/30/14. We’ve had an exceptional year. We took in more than last
year and didn’t spend as much. We have $3,920.00 more than last
year. There were no questions on the financial statement. In
referencing the Budget, Tres. Matson stated that the $1,895.00
won’t cover those going to the National Convention but we can take
money out of the money market account. On Motion (01-05/08/14) of
H. Silbaugh, 2nd by W. Testerman to approve the “Proposed Budget”
2014/2015. Approved.
Committee Reports: -Audit Committee Report – Chairperson, Jeff
Otlman reported the committee checked the books and found the
records correct and in order. Treasurer Dave Matson made it easy
for the committee. He has a great set up for someone taking over in
the future. He thanked the other committee members – Lois Olson,
Larry Wilbur and Wayne Testerman. The committee recommends it be
forwarded to next year. On Motion (01-05/08/14) of J. Oltman, 2nd
by M. King to approve the Audit Committee’s findings. Approved. -
Alzheimer’s Report – Jackie Bjorke, coordinator, again mentioned
that $1,292.00 was raised at the Silent Auction. She invited us all
to the convention in Huron next year. -Time and Place Committee
Report – Chairperson, Keith Zolobkowski, gave the following report:
2015 – May 12, 13 and 14, HURON/MITCHELL at the Crossroads Dates
changed to Tues. Wed. and Thur. 2016 – May 10, 11 and 12, SIOUX
FALLS/FORT RANDALL/YANKTON at the Ramkota (?) Dates changed because
of college graduations. 2017 – May 9, 10, and 11,
PIERRE/GETTYSBURG/WINNER at the Ramkota (?) Dates changed to Tues.
Wed. and Thur. 2018 - Dates and place to be announced. We don’t
know what will be happening down the road because of FON. Brookings
may not be able to man it. Keith thanked his fellow committee
members: Joyce Fluke, Sandi Matson, Carolyn Clague, Ken Erienbusch,
Yvonne Wilbur and John Bultsma. Comments: Lois Olson asked about 2
day conventions. We need to get younger members. There need to be
instructions for the Time and Place Committee. Pres. Youngman
recommends discussing this at the Executive Board meeting and he
will put it on the agenda. Page 11 of 14
- Resolutions Committee Report – Chairperson Gerald Cornelius
reported there were two resolutions submitted. Other Committee
members are Bernie Christner, Carol Reed, Marvin Olson and
Geraldine Crisman. 1st Resolution – 1. Subject: South Dakota
Federation of NARFE Time and Place Committee 2. Adopted by Chapter
#0336, Rapid City, SD, March 3, 2014 3. Federation Action: 4.
WHEREAS: the Time and Place committee is charged by the South
Dakota Federation with the task of preparing a five-year rotation
of convention host chapters for the Federation NARFE conventions:
WHEREAS: a stable five-year rotation schedule is in the best
interest of the Federations chapters, as it allows the host chapter
enough lead time to obtain the best possible locations, hotel and
meeting room rates, and reserved dates for the Federation
convention; WHEREAS: changes to the host chapter rotation were
recently made by executive order, voiding the Time and Place
committee’s decision. 5. BE IT RESOLVED: that the Time and Place
Committee, being a standing committee of the SD Federation of
Chapters of the NARFE association, will continue to provide a
five-year rotation schedule of convention host chapters. In
addition, this rotation may not be altered except by a majority
vote of the Executive board of the SD Federation of NARFE. the
effect of lowering the cost of the Annual convention to the host
NARFE chapter and the SD Federation of NARFE as it would prevent
higher rates due to change in negotiations. The Resolutions
Committee recommended adopting the resolution. No second required.
Discussion: - Pres. Youngman stated this is becoming a more and
more difficult area of conversation. We keep coming back to issue
changes. Look at the big picture. Members concerned about dates
conflicting with Mother’s Day and Graduations etc. -Betty Testerman
from Dist. III is in favor of the 5 years but is up in the air with
FON. On Motion (02-05/08/14) of B. Testerman, 2nd by K. Phelan, to
amend the resolution to say “3” years instead of “5” until we know
what will happen with FON. Then we can go back to 5 years. -Bernie
Christner stated that at National Conventions can a resolution be
amended? -Carol Ek-it can be done. When you take a vote on this
resolution, vote on the amendment first. -Rely on the Executive
Board to make last minute decisions for finalizing. -Dist. IV
promoted 4 chapters co-hosting a convention. Motion (02-05/08/14)
to amend the resolution is approved. On Motion (03-05/08/14) of
Pres. Youngman, 2nd by K. Phelan, to approve the original
resolution as amended. Approved. 2nd Resolution- 1. Subject:
Proposed current federal retiree/employee location/distribution
study. 2. Adopted by Chapter #0894, Kampeska, South Dakota, March
3, 2014. 3. Federation Action: 4. WHEREAS: No recent studies have
been made regarding the number and location of current Federal
retirees/current employees in the State of South Dakota. There have
been numerous changes throughout the State, including population
increases/decreases and changes in the demographic locations of the
population. This information is vital in determining the ZIP code
assignments of Chapters and Districts in the State. It is also
important to determining the potential of new Chapters due to such
changes (i.e. Sioux Falls & suburbs, Mobridge, Eagle Butte,
Rapid City, etc.) These changes could substantially change our
membership recruitment initiatives. Page 12 of 14
5. BE IT RESOLVED: That the Federation establish a task force to
study any potential changes to improve proper Chapter area
assignments and potential for recruitment initiatives. The task
force could include Federation Officers and officers/members of
each District. Personnel with computer knowledge and capabilities
would be especially important. Communications between participants
by email, telephone, and postage could eliminate any travel
necessary. The study could utilize a wealth of information in
available printouts and other material from NARFE. State of South
Dakota, Office of Personnel Management, Social Security, US Postal
Service and any other sources available. 6. Estimated Annual Cost:
Costs should be minimal, if any, as most information needed could
be accessed by computers. Also, communications between members
could be by email, telephone, and postal means. This should
eliminate any travel expenses for task force members. The
Resolutions Committee recommends this action be taken. Discussion:
-Who is going to do it? It can be discussed at the Executive Board
meeting -Gerald Cornelius was involved in a study in 2006 for
potential members. Where are they? -Carol Ek made a recommendation
to call those that don’t attend chapter meetings and let them know
we’re still around. Resolutions Committee Recommendation is
Approved. There was a resolution of the 48th Annual Convention
expressing their appreciation to the Aberdeen Chapter 0584 for
hosting a very well organized and successful convention. Approved.
- Constitution and By-Laws Committee Report – Harlan Silbaugh
reported no changes. The other committee members were R, Lolley
(Chair), L. Olson, B. Hind and S. Magedanz.
Unfinished Business: Old Business: A. We are searching for last
year’s SD Fed. scrapbook. B. National Convention is being held in
Orlando, Florida Aug. 24-28, 2014. People are encouraged to attend.
We have 16 chapters to represent. Delegates can carry their own
chapter plus 3 proxies. If we have the right combination of 4 to 5
delegates all chapters can be represented. The Executive Board will
meet later to come up with the financial support and local chapter
support and support to proxies. The hotel cost is $110.00 per
night, flights are around $800.00 round trip, if driving it would
take about two nights on the road. We’re looking for anyone who is
willing to be leaders in their local chapter to go as a delegate.
Is there anyone interested in going? It will require some out of
pocket money. It’s too late to get on any committees for this
National convention. Let an Executive Board member know if you’re
interested. We’ll be meeting in Room A and you can attend as a
guest. New Business: On Motion (04-05/08/14) of B. Christner, 2nd
by B. Testerman, that a proposal be made that the Aberdeen Chapter
0584 reimburse the Huron Chapter 0899 for having to pay a $250.00
deposit to the Crossroads for the 2015 Convention since they had to
change dates. Discussion: -J. Bjorke stated the reimbursement is
not necessary. Huron did put a deposit of $250.00 but not because
of the switching of dates with Aberdeen. -It was mentioned that the
Huron chapter has had their past 3 conventions with the same hotel
and under new management. The $250.00 is to assure the date. Page
13 of 14
-D. Matson received information for J. Bjorke that it was for
deposit only, different from a penalty for changing dates. -W.
Testerman noted he had worked with the Crossroads. Things had to be
clear with changing from Monday to Tuesday. The chapter would have
lost the $250.00 if they didn’t have anything. -The resolution was
brought forward because of the change by Executive Order, now
changed between one person and another, therefore should be
reimbursed for any extra cost. -R. Youngman informed us that a few
years ago when he was asked to be 2nd VP and Legislative chair he
attended the Legislative Training and paid 2/3 of the cost himself.
When M. King (as 2nd VP) attended this training, the Federation
helped more. -Motion on the floor for Aberdeen to reimburse Huron
the $250.00 deposit since they had to change dates. Disapproved.
Comment: Carol Ek suggested this isn’t the time to determine
whether or not an election was held today. Put feelings aside with
what has happened. A vote was made. We shouldn’t re-hold an
election. Do what needs to be done for the “Good of NARFE”.
$100.00 Drawing was won by Harlend Silbaugh. Congratulations.
Retirement of Colors and Adjournment at 10:00AM Nancy L. Dowding,
Secretary SD Federation of NARFE Chapters
Page 14 of 14