2015-2016 IAWP President James Thomas

As the new International President, I want to introduce myself to all of the membership. I served 6 years in the United States Navy as a corpsman. I was attached to the 3/9 Battalion Aid Station located in Camp Pendleton, Califor-nia. I served in Operation Desert Storm and the Honduran War where I was able to help provide many Honduran families medical care. As a corpsman, I was responsible for providing and maintaining medical records for military person-nel during the Gulf War. I had the opportunity to visit Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, Honduras, and the Philippines. I am a native of North Caro-lina and have been married for 26 years to my wonderful wife Denise.

Currently, I work as an Employment Program Manager III (EPM) in the California Employ-ment Development Department. I started my career as an Intermittent Employee in the Unem-ployment Insurance program. The week before a big layoff, I was picked up as an Employment Program Representative. I have worked as a De-terminations Interviewer, Adjustment Specialist,

Appeals Specialist, and Macro Specialist. I was anxious to get a promotion so I applied for a management exam before I met the minimum qualifications. Nevertheless, I continued to apply and was promoted to Employment Program Manager I. I was responsible for a staff of eight Determina-tion Interviewers. I became the manager of a Claim Filing Unit with a staff of sixteen which expanded to twenty-four claim filers.

I continued to apply for advancement op-portunities whenever exams were an-nounced. I applied for both Employment Program Manager II and Employment Pro-gram Manager III at the same time. I was not picked up as an Employment Program Manager II; but did receive a call and was

offered a position as an Employment Program Manager III. I currently work in the Oakland Primary Call Center and am responsible for over 160 staff and meeting many new challenges daily.

IAWP has given me some of the tools I needed to meet the challenges. It has taught me to never give up, always move forward, and that success is only an application away.

I have been a member of IAWP for 14 years. I began this adventure as secretary for the Silicon Valley Sub-Chapter where I also served in several offices including Sub-Chapter President. With dedication and commitment, I became President of the California Chapter after having served as 2nd Vice President and 1st Vice President. I was California Chapter President for three years.

I have served as the District 8 Director on the International Board as well as the Strategic Plan-ning Committee Chair, Vice-President, President-Elect and currently serving as your International President.

I believe in our Workforce Professional Develop-ment Program (WPDP) and am a WPDP Master and Certified Workforce Specialist. My leadership skills encompass helping others by giving them the tools to develop themselves as leaders. I am dedicated to providing the techniques and support to anyone who wants to advance their career. I believe that anyone can achieve whatever they think is possible.

I have an Associate’s Degree in Education from Chabot College, a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science with a minor in Public Administration from North Carolina Central University, and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from Phoenix University.

Join me for an exciting year in IAWP where we will continue to develop and grow.

My motto is:

“I am IAWP,

You are IAWP,

We are IAWP".

Inside this issue:

2015-2015 IAWP Board 2

Committee Assignment and Directory Listing

2-4

Executive Director Opening

5-7

2015 Conference in Review

8-14

Seasons 15-16

Membership Application 16

Membership Information 17

Buffalo 2016 18

Bulletin Board 18

July 2015

IAWP Chapter Activity

Countdown

PAGE 2 COUNTDOWN

President: James Thomas, CA President-Elect: Terri Pasternik, IL Vice-President: Cheryl Brown, WA Secretary-Treasurer: Grant Axtell, OR Past International President: Mikell Fryer, GA District Directors 2015-2016 District Director 1: Michael Mrvichin, NJ District Director 2: Vicki Zimmerlee, PA/MD District Director 3: William Futrell, GA District Director 4: Mary Rogers, KY District Director 5: Ann Seifert, MN District Director 6: David Slimp, OK District Director 7: Stephanie Stevens, OR District Director 8: Mary Navarro-Aldana, CA District Director 9: Vacant District Director 10: Akiro Yoshida, Japan District Director 11: Vincent Huang, Republic of China District Director 12: Nils Freivalds, Latvia District Director 13: Mario Espinosa Paredes

Bylaws & Resolutions Chair: Verletta Moeller, CA Parliamentarian: Freddy Jacobs, AR Education Chair: Jean Berry, CA Training Coordinator: Jean Berry, CA WPDP Coordinator: Theresa Austin, GA CWS Coordinator: Lynda Essary-Love, MS Communication Committee Chair: Jenny Yarian Scalpelli, IN Legislation Coordinator: Verna Wade, NC Web Site/Social Network Coordinator: Lorraine Faulds, SC Flash Editor: Pat Thornton, CA Chapter Development Committee Chair: Sharon Mike, MD Membership Coordinator: Barbee Williams, OR Chapter Outreach Coordinator: Deneen Clarke, NC Retiree Subcommittee Chair: Audrey Baker, CA Recognition Chair: Gerri Jimenez, NM Chapter Awards Coordinator: Gerry Jimenez, NM Individual & Group Awards Coordinator: Gerald Murphy, VA Membership Awards Coordinator: Laura Paige Stodghill, Administrative Office Marketing Committee Chair: Raymond Cabrera, CA NASWA Liaison: Mikell Fryer, GA NVTI Liaison: Tom Ivory, CO USDOL Liaison: Amy Chen, DC International Development Chair: Chris Crawford, TX Conference Chair: George Barthalow, FL Conference Program Chair: Richard Vitkay, NJ Local Arrangements Coordinator: Linda Chapman, NY

2015-2016 IAWP Board

the IAWP website under the Contact Us section at http://

www.iawponline.org/imagevault/f1434739206.pdf. This

form can mailed, emailed or faxed to:

IAWP ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE

1801 Louisville Road

Frankfort, KY 40601

Toll-free: 1.888.898.9960

Phone: 502.223.4459

email to: iawp@iawponline.org

The IAWP Administrative Office has not received the

Committee Assignment and Association Directory Listing

Form from many of our chapters. It is very important that

each chapter president fills out the form each year. This is

very helpful to the Administrative Office as well to mem-

bers when wanting to reach, out for any particular reason,

to the correct person. Please complete the Committee As-

signment and Association Directory Listing Forms on pag-

es 3 and 4 of this Countdown or forms can be accessed on

Committee Assignment and Association Directory Listing

PAGE 3 JULY 2015

Chapter: ___________________________

IAWP Committee Assignments & Association Directory Listings For the 2015-16 Administrative Year

Chapter President

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Membership Chair

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Education Chair

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

2015-16 Committee Assignments

President Elect

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Prepares Membership Transmittals ( if someone other than the Membership Chair)

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Newsletter Editor

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Continued on Page 4

PAGE 4 COUNTDOWN

1

Recognition Chair

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Communication Chair

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Marketing Chair

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Chapter: ______________________________

Chapter Development Chair

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Retiree Chair

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

International Development Chair

Name: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

Office Phone:___________________________

Fax: ______________________________

Home Phone:___________________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Continued from page 3

2015-2016 Committee Assignments

PAGE 5 JULY 2015

International Association of Workforce Professionals

Executive Director Position Description

Scion Executive Search (www.scionexecutivesearch.com) has been retained to conduct the search for a new Ex-

ecutive Director for the International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP). This full time, remote

position works closely with the Association’s headquarter offices in Frankfort, Kentucky and is for immediate

hire.

Position Summary: IAWP is currently seeking a dynamic and entrepreneurial Executive Director who will lead

the Association, rebrand and market the organization, engage members, fundraise, and lead strategic planning

and program creation efforts in order to achieve maximum organizational impact; ensuring a stable and sustain-

able financial future for the Association.

Reporting directly to the IAWP Board of Directors, the Executive Director will adeptly represent the Associa-

tion to partners, prospects and public domestically and internationally. The Executive Director will also be re-

sponsible for fostering the Association’s scope and impact expansion and will continually seek out new oppor-

tunities and avenues to support strategic growth.

This exciting and rewarding position is full time and is 100% remote. While the Executive Director has the abil-ity to work from anywhere in the country, this role requires the ability to travel domestically to participate in meetings and conferences on an as-needed basis, up to 30% of the time.

Responsibilities by Area:

Organizational Leadership Lead the Association in a manner that supports and guides the organizational mission as defined by the

Board of Directors. Act as the Association’s primary motivational team leader, inspiring the management, staff, Board, volun-

teers, and partners. Champion annual on-boarding process for new Board members; facilitate smooth transition in order to

maintain operations consistency. Lead the strategic planning process working closely with the Board and committees.

Team Management Provide hands on motivational leadership, coaching and mentorship to volunteers and staff. Foster positive environment that encourages members to become volunteers. Lead conference and event planning committee; oversee staff participation. Encourage State chapter involvement to further development opportunities.

IAWP has an Opening for Executive Director

Interested and qualified individuals should read the following position description.

Continued on Page 6

PAGE 6 COUNTDOWN

Board Governance & Reporting Provide leadership and support for the Board members of the Association. Meet with, update, and inform the Board on current work, project delivery timelines, and organizational

progress. Drive organizational growth by creating a consensus among Board members, volunteers, committees and

staff for needed projects, strategic plans, and/or organizational changes. Analyze operations and program development to evaluate performance through assessments and communi-

cate strategic vision for identified evolution opportunities to the Board. Marketing Provide conceptual oversight for public relations, websites, marketing, etc. Seek and guide opportunities to strengthen, build, and promote IAWP programs, vision, and work. Network effectively with other professionals, organizations, institutions and agencies in order to build

membership levels and further the mission of the Association. Fundraising Drive development and fundraising efforts, in collaboration with the Board and Committee, to meet organ-

izational goals and objectives. Develop a new fundraising plan that initiates, cultivates, and extends relationships with IAWP potential

supporters. Create, improve, and oversee all Association membership programs. Advise Board on prospective fundraising/development opportunities and communicate strategic plan to

staff, volunteers and donors. Communications & Public Speaking Lead public relations efforts; consciously enhancing the Association’s image by working closely with other

professional, civic and private organizations. Represent IAWP publicly by attending public events, committee meetings, community meetings, profes-

sional functions and events. Foster development of international forum to provide for exchange of information. Promote public and legislative awareness of the proficient services provided by member programs. Provide members with information on proposed legislation and policy matters related to programs and ser-

vices offered. Financial/Accounting Leadership/Budget Creation Analyze data and provide growth plans to overcome organizational challenges. Spearhead grant writing activities; Identify new opportunities and secure funding. Draft and present annual budget to Board for approval. Monitor Board approved budget and manage daily financial operations to ensure maximum utilization of

resources and optimum financial positioning for the Association. Required Qualifications:

Seven plus years of prior management experience in a leadership position.

Prior nonprofit and or association experience working in a member driven organization.

Proven hands on marketing and membership program creation experience relating to the creation of, and expansion of nonprofit programs.

Continued from Page 5

Continued on Page 7

PAGE 7 JULY 2015

Entrepreneurial creative mindset and a strategic systematic approach. Proven experience in public speaking. Ability to strategize and navigate complex situations effectively. Bachelor’s degree and or equivalent working experience in the nonprofit sector. Understanding and command of workforce issues, workforce agency landscape, and workforce training pro-

grams a plus. Passion for IAWP’s mission and work required. Compensation and Benefits: This position offers a competitive salary of $70,000 - $85,000, dependent on experience, in addition to excep-tional health benefits (medical, dental and vision), a generous 401k plan (5% employer matched contributions), life insurance, paid vacation (12 days of PTO accrued per year), paid holidays (13 days per year) and ultimately, a job and team that you will love. How to Apply: For immediate consideration, please email your resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to Scion Executive Search at: executive@scionstaffing.com. About the International Association of Workforce Professionals: Founded in 1913, The International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP) is a professional associa-tion for members who work in public and private workforce development programs. With over 13,000 mem-bers worldwide, IAWP is a non-profit educational association exclusively dedicated to workforce professionals with a rich tradition and history of contributions to workforce excellence. IAWP is a worldwide Association whose members form an integral part of the of the workforce development system. Membership is available to all individuals sharing a common interest in workforce systems. IAWP members receive the tools and resources they need to effectively contribute to workforce development daily. By providing relevant education, timely and informative communication and valuable findings of perti-nent research, IAWP equips its members with the knowledge, information and practical tools that are needed to achieve success. Through a strong network of local and regional chapters, IAWP is preparing its members for the challenges of tomorrow. About Our Firm: Scion Executive Search is a retained executive search firm connecting executive nonprofit leadership to non-profit organizations and foundations across the country. Born out of the nonprofit sector, we provide expert search strategies and leadership for your organization. Our executive candidates are true agents for change, and we are experts at matching their talents, motivations, and passions to your organization’s mission. Scion Execu-tive Search has led hundreds of successful executive searches. Information about our firm and successes can be found online at www.nonprofitexecutivesearchfirm.com. Scion Staffing, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and service provider committed to not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation or belief. We are com-mitted to the principles of Equal Opportunity Employment and are dedicated to making employment decisions based on merit and value, for ourselves, our client companies, and for the candidates we represent.

Continued from Page 6

PAGE 8 COUNTDOWN

The following articles (pages 8-15) are reprinted from the FLASH (the official newsletter of the IAWP Conference.); which re-viewed keynote speakers, workshops and items/activities of interest during the 102nd IAWP Educational Conference held in Savannah GA, June 14-17, 2015. All of the FLASH News-letters for the 2015 Conference can be found online at www.iawponline.org.

2015 IAWP EDUCATIONAL

CONFERENCE IN REVIEW

members of the Executive Board. Grant Axtell was of great help in updating the budget process and Administra-tive Office procedures. He also was responsible for the program book and conference app. Terri Pasternik stepped in when the Recognition Chair Gina Mee became ill. Terri handled the awards judging as well as the plan-ning and implementation of the award brunch. In addi-tion, the conference planning team was recognized for making the conference a success.

President Fryer presented his first President’s Award to Mary Kay Krisman (OH) for her work behind the scenes and saving the Association numerous dollars for her work on the production of the Workforce Professional. The sec-ond award went to Yvette Quevedo (CA) for her work in updating WPDP. The third award went to George Bar-thalow (FL) for his dedication and hard work for IAWP.

2015 – 2016 Officers Are . . .

James Thomas (CA) – President Terri Pasternik (IL) – President-Elect

Cheryl Brown (WA) - Vice-President Mikell Fryer (GA) – Immediate Past-President Grant Axtell (OR) – Secretary/Treasurer

Best of the Best ------ Vice-President Terri Pasternik pre-sented the Most Improved Chapter award to our host --- the Georgia Chapter. The Number One Chapter Award went to the California Chapter. Life Memberships were awarded at Business Meeting. The Illinois Chapter honored Susie Geltner with a Life Member-ship for her dedication to IAWP. It was presented by Inter-national Past-President George Barthalow. Secretary/Treasurer Grant Axtell presented President Mikell Fryer with his Life Membership. During the banquet, as part of his last official duties, Presi-dent Mikell Fryer recognized the extra efforts of other

We’re Going to Cincinnati Ohio in 2018!

The Results Are In

PAGE 9 JULY 2015

I want to personally welcome each of you to our 102nd International Educa-tional Conference. I believe the hard work of the confer-ence planning com-mittee and the 2014-15 Executive Board has produced what

we believe will be a very educational, informative, and enjoyable conference here at the newly renovated Hyatt Regency in Historic Savannah, Georgia.

The Hyatt Regency and its staff have been most responsive to our needs and are looking forward to our stay this week. We are excited and proud of what we have put together for you at this year’s 102nd International Educational Confer-ence, “Collaborating for Innovative Solutions in the 21st Century.” Please to stop me for a chat as you see me net-working throughout the week and don’t hesitate to notify any member of the planning committee if you need any-thing during your stay. We will do our very best to accom-modate you. The conference planning committee and the 2014-15 Executive Board are honored you have chosen to be here with us this year as we hope to provide you a touch of southern hospitality that will have you leaving with Georgia on your mind. Thank you and have an amazing time!

Welcome to Savannah By Mikell Fryer

I want to give thanks to the California Chapter and all Chapters membership for their continued support in becoming the next International President. The California Chapter had several International Presidents and I am excited to become part of that lineage. Our association is celebrating our 103rd historical year. Our organization, existing for over a century is willing to embrace change that builds a solid foundation for the future. Organizational change is the innovating factor for moving our association forward. There is a constant decline in government workers at state workforce agencies. We must seek new avenues for increasing recruitment for members outside of state workforce agencies. We must find new ways to increase our awards presenta-tions for the membership categories (Gold Award, Silver Membership Recruitment Award, and Bronze Key Award.) We also need to find innovative ways to help chapters meet retention goals. Our new marketing chair has to highlight the age old question: “What’s in IAWP for me?” We must continue to establish collaborative partnerships with national businesses and partner organizations like NASWA, NVTI, NADA, and USDOL to help market our association to their workforce. We must fine tune our strategies to acquire sponsorship funds to offset membership dues so we can provide more bene-fits to our membership. My theme for the year is “Building Bridges through Technology, Partnership and Innovation.” Your support in helping build these bridges will be the future and the success for IAWP. It is my privilege to host the 103rd International Conference in the spectacular City of Buffalo, New York in June 2016. We hope to provide you with “What makes New York the place to visit" and I look forward to seeing you there. Thank You for your continued support of IAWP. I look forward to a great year working with our administrative staff, elected officers and board of directors in making this association the best.

Building Bridges Through Technology, Partnership and Innovation By IAWP President James Thomas

PAGE 10 COUNTDOWN

Vince Lombardi hit the nail on the head when he defined success. Success doesn’t happen in an instant. Success isn’t a gift. True success is the result of planning, goal set-ting, and detailed execution. A winning team produces successful results with constant preparation, a consistent dedication to the tasks at hand, and a focus on the purpose and mission of the dream. Our 2014-2015 Conference Committee exemplifies the essence of that. With each of us, life would sometimes “get in the way”; however, none of us stumbled in deliver-ing a final, successful product. We cared enough to make a difference and helped to set the stage for our new future with the advent of the Workforce Innovation and Oppor-tunity Act (WIOA). Linda Barnes, our Program Coordinator, provided an awe-some array of workshops and general sessions. We includ-ed training material for all workforce professionals, includ-ing our Vocational Rehabilitation partners. The WIOA panel on Monday afternoon was amazing. Commissioner LaBreck, Consultant Lee Foley, and DOL Regional Ad-ministrator Les Range presented a thorough perspective of WIOA and attendees were allowed to ask detailed ques-tions regarding the Act’s rollout. Commissioner LaBreck is the first Presidential appointee to attend our Conference in a number of years!

P.J. Schneider, our Local Arrangements Coordinator, head-ed an energetic team consisting of Janice Mathis, Betty White, Irlene Tucker, and Georgia Chapter President Sher-ry Maddock. Their team contributions provided us an op-portunity to enjoy and network during our Early Bird, Sa-vannah Night, Buffalo Night, the Awards Brunch, and our Banquet and Ball. This was exemplified by the many smiles on our attendees’ faces. Our President, Mikell Fryer, worked behind the scenes in helping secure our keynote speakers, as well as assemble the WIOA panel. He also individually invited each state administrator as well as other dignitaries including Savan-nah’s Mayor, Edna Branch Jackson, and Georgia Commis-sioner of Labor, Mark Butler. President Fryer also provid-ed our committee with support, motivation, and most im-portantly, vision. So, in the end, because of our team’s dedication and hard work, our attendees won, and the City of Savannah provid-ed an awesome venue of local beauty and amazing history, as well as true southern hospitality. I would like to express true thanks to each of our team as well as our administra-tive staff, Paige Stodghill and Debbie Cardwell, for helping us achieve success as we launch towards a new and dynam-ic future.

Savannah: Another Successful Conference!

By Past International President and Conference Chair George Barthalow

another year of “you’ll help in layout won’t you? pretty please with sugar-on-top”. David and Sher, who we often take for granted, thank you for being our photographers. James our prez-elect, thank you for recruiting reporters and insuring that all sessions were covered. John, who patiently waited for whatever, and all of those people who have made me look good! I can’t say thank you publicly enough. And lastly to Harley (AKA Gene Replogle of IN) who got me (and many others) into the business of “Flashing” I say thank you for showing me how to maintain personal contacts in my chapter, district, and nation-ally. I only wish you were well enough to be here to tell us all the things we were do-ing wrong and right. This is a wrap, ‘til we meet next June in Buffalo.

To 250 plus or minus of my dearest and closest friends: I have once again discovered why I continue to be a can-didate for the “loony bin.” I want to see that this group of people and all of the folk at home (from border to bor-der and beyond) can share in the experience of our Inter-national Conference. I grouse about 2 o'clock (yes am) and this year didn’t do any but after a little arm-twisting, we had more reports (4 write-ups on Lee Foley’s update) than we have had in my memory. The members of the 2014-2015 Executive Board came thru like champs writ-ing some articles before we arrived on-site. The Georgia agency provided more assistance in the computer depart-ment than I thought possible (and Mac was a god-send). The Hyatt printed all of these copies and didn’t get up-tight about what could be viewed as short turn-around times. Pat Thornton soaked in the madness (it will be her you can ask for issues of the Flash next year). The M&M’s of Ohio (Mary Kay and Mary Ellen) survived yet

FLASH Editor—Jenny Yarian Scalpelli Expresses Gratitude

PAGE 11 JULY 2015

IAWP’s Chapter Development Com-mittee strived to provide chapters with resources and tools to assist them with growth and development. On the IAWP website under Chapter Development, you will find best prac-tices, updated sample documents to include a sample of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between an agency and an IAWP Chapter. If you don’t have a policy or MOU in place we encourage you to put something in place. Having a practice in place comes in handy especially when changes in administrative leadership occurs. IAWP’s leadership and executive board recognizes that more needed to be done to retain and recruit new members. Beginning this year, we offered $100 membership conference

scholarship to member’s not receiving financial assistance from their respec-tive agencies or chapters. Ten schol-arships were awarded for active mem-bers. Chapter membership grants are also available to help chapters and sub-chapters recruit and retain members. The application, criteria and expecta-tions are posted on the IAWP website for both opportunities. The appli-cation DEADLINE for the chap-ter/subchapter membership re-cruitment/information session grants is July 31st. The key to retaining and obtaining new membership is providing ser-vices and benefits to IAWP’s most important asset, the membership. We will continue to work towards provid-

ing services and benefits that can be accessed at your finger-tips. We want to provide products of interest to you so look out for the opportunity to pro-vide that input. It was a pleasure to serve as your chap-ter development chair and building on the accomplishments of my predeces-sors. I would like to extend a special thank you to all the chapter presidents who participated in the Chapter Presi-dent’s Forum and provided valuable input. The Chapter Development Team con-sisted of Chapter Outreach-Jeanette Vest, Membership-Stephanie Stevens, Communications-Theresa Austin, Re-tiree-Corky Swain and Verna Wade, Chair.

Chapter Membership: The Lifeline of our Association By Verna Wade

Many of us have had some sort of support to attend the conference whether it be a paid registration or ad-ministrative leave. Maybe not… but we had co-workers “holding down the fort” while we were gone or spouses keeping things going at home. Do we just go back after the conference and tell everyone about the fun we had? NO! There is so much more to do:

Send your agency administrator and/or other ap-propriate manager/supervisor a personal handwrit-ten thank you note for allowing you to attend and/or providing whatever support you received.

Send your co-workers an email to thank them for serving customers, answering phone calls, handling

paperwork, etc. while you were gone.

Share workshop information with co-workers. Maybe have a group meeting to talk about the things you learned and share ideas with them. Encourage them to attend next year to get these professional educational benefits.

Write an article(s) for your chapter newsletter about the interesting workshops you attended.

These things take just a few minutes and will go a long way toward generating positive support for your attendance. Editor’s note: For those who care to “send the very best,” IAWP note cards are available

from the IAWP Administrative Office

Monday morning Savannah Mayor Edna Jackson joined the conference to welcome participants to the city. This historic city has 140,000 residents which makes it the largest of the nine municipalities in the area. Mayor Jackson spoke about how the city of Savannah works hard to partner with the other municipalities. As Savannah celebrates its 225th birthday this year, the mayor encouraged participants to visit the historic squares, see the local sights, and support the wonderful local businesses. Mayor Jackson ended her welcome by offering to make Savannah the permanent home of the IAWP International Conference.

Mayor Welcomes Conference Goers By Grant Axtell

What Should I Do After The Conference? By Sharon Mike

Early Bird By Vicki Zimmerlee

PAGE 12 COUNTDOWN

Buffalo night gave us a glimpse of what to expect for next year’s conference. The state chapter had their very own Rosie the Riveter impersonator. There were various snacks offered, the buffalo shaped cookies were absolute-ly scrumptious. The trivia question session became quite competitive. One of our first timers, Anthony Davis

(DC), won a prize and stated that he will definitely return for next year’s conference as a member of IAWP. The night included dancing, where attendees learned the latest line dances as well as some Zumba moves. The night end-ed with karaoke singing. I must say that I thoroughly en-joyed myself and I am impressed with the myriad of tal-ents our members possess and share with us.

Buffalo Night By Deneen Clarke

Photos of conference attendees were projected for all to see on the big screens while “Midnight Train to Georgia” and “Georgia on My Mind” graced the loudspeakers. Next New York Chapter members gave away prizes from their ticket sales for next year’s conference. Mem-bers watched a video about the tremendous revitalization efforts in Buffalo. The city is blessed with a well-functioning grid and radial road system with integrated parks and classic American architecture. More infor-mation will be sent to members about the venue and prices. Corky Swain won the “Basket of Cheer” from Albany New York members, and Linda Barnes won the vest full of state memento pins. With a lot of fanfare members who purchased 50-50 tickets stood in hopes of winning half of the over $1,600 collected. PJ Schneider (GA) read off the numbers on the drawn ticket. When he got down to the last two numbers on the ticket only six people were still in the running. The winner was George Bar-thalow (FL).

Most of the 83 registered retirees enjoyed a lavish brunch, coordinated by Retiree Chair Corky Swain, in the lovely Harborside Room, overlooking the beautiful Savannah Riv-er. As usual they mixed, mingled and visited, reuniting and renewing friendships with old friends. Corky sends special thanks to Betty White and Irlene Tucker for their assistance in planning the brunch. When the scheduled speaker failed to show, Flash Editor Jenny proved the extremes she has gone to in following Harley’s footsteps…no that should be “fall” in Harley’s footsteps. She proved this by tumbling head over heels at the brunch, as he did several years ago. Before we adjourned, we took the traditional retiree group photo, an exercise that makes herding cats look easy.

Next year’s retiree chair will be Audrey Baker (CA). Names to be submitted to President-Elect Terri Pasternik are Sue Riley (NY) and Susie Geltner (IL).

The night kicked off with some good southern food. Everything you could imagine from fried chicken, ribs, brisket, and side dishes to tempt everyone. Don't even get me started on the desserts. Wow! Bellies were full and the dancing began. What an evening! It was the per-fect setting as the Georgia sun set on the river, old and new friends caught up with one another. The staff was incredible. Many of us hit the floor dancing to the sounds of the 70's. Before I left for the evening I was entertained by Mary Navarro-Aldana (CA) who sang "Baby Baby," Cheryl Waters who sang Patsy Cline's "Crazy," and our VP Terri Pasternik (IL) who sang Nancy Sinatra’s “These Boots Are Made For Walking.” Savan-nah knows how to make you feel like family.

Chapter Night in Savannah

By Suzanne Nichols

Closing Ceremonies By Steve Corwin

Retiree Brunch

By Chris Crawford & George Strait

The Early Bird Networking event was lively with chatter and movement. Old friends were greeting one another and first timers were getting acquainted with new friends. Glad to see some South Carolina folks back this year. Food stations offered a taste of the south from pulled pork to pralines while the DJ got folks moving on the dance floor with lots of line dancing. Whether engaging in brief encounters or intense con-versation with other members, the Early Bird was the place to connect, unwind from your travels, and start your 2015 conference experience.

Additional Networking and Fun Opportunities at the Educational Conference

PAGE 13 JULY 2015

Note from FLASH Editor: Below is follow-up to WPDP article that was printed in the FLASH, Vol. 69, Issue 3, June 16, 2015 pages 11-12.

As promised, for those of you who haven’t yet met up with anyone who attended the fantastic session on the Workforce Professional Development Program presented by Gerri Jimenez (NM) here are the answers to yesterday’s questions that were given at the session: “What does OIS stand for?” a) Occupational Information System b) Other Industry Standards c) Overpayment Investigation System d) Opportunity Investment Service From the History of Workforce Development: “When was the first public unemployment insurance pro-gram established? a) 1800 b) 1723 c) 1900 d) 1893 From the Business and Job Seeker study guides: “The H-1B program allows an employer to temporarily em-ploy a foreign worker in the U.S. in a ___ occupation” a) Manufacturing b) Standard c) Specialty d) Firefighting

And from the Unemployment Insurance study guides: “… is a component of state UI operations that involves preven-tion, detection, investigation and recovery of benefit overpay-ments.” a) Overpayment Prevention Department b) Expense Detention Unit c) Benefit Payment Control d) Benefit Disbursement Recovery Now I do not want to mislead you into thinking that the study guides are small and the tests easy. No, indeed! There is some stud-ying to do (I even had to pay for some retests, which was ok, cause I learned even more the second time through!). My point is that while there is much to learn, it is worth it to increase your under-standing of how the current workforce landscape came to be what it is and how the different parts come together as a whole. Knowledge, I believe, that will help you in many different ways over the years as you assist individuals in all the ways that you cur-rently serve the unemployed and underemployed in your commu-nities. You will not regret taking this step of signing up and be-come a more knowledgeable customer service servant. Join the ranks of certified workforce professionals today. Go over to Paige and say “Sign me up!” (Just kidding Paige). Pull out your smart phone, your tablet (Phablet if you have one) and click on the “Application” link and email the page to yourself and then head to the business center and print out the application, fill it out, and then go over to Paige and drop it off with your first payment. And “Welcome” to the WPDP family!

Workforce Professional Development Program, Part II By Charles Patterson

Below are links in which you can view highlights from the 102nd IAWP Conference, Savannah, GA Part 1 - IAWP Savannah 2015 Early Bird (125 photos) https://plus.google.com/photos/117053039113041057462/albums/6160071370261082833?authkey=CK_cjPTclJXmkwE

Part 2 - IAWP Savannah 2015 Mikell Board Meeting and Opening Ceremonies - (181 photos) https://plus.google.com/photos/117053039113041057462/albums/6160454578559965361?authkey=CJ6--pfCwsCIngE Part 3 - IAWP Savannah 2015 Lee Foley-Retiree Brunch-Workshops-Speed Sessions-Panel Discussion-Chapter Night (157 photos) https://plus.google.com/photos/117053039113041057462/albums/6160924048074646305?authkey=CKfi2Y-ZipLrYw

Part 4 - IAWP Savannah 2015 Shelia Durham - Awards Brunch - Workshops - PIPs Meeting - (176 photos) https://plus.google.com/photos/117053039113041057462/albums/6161207640093672577?authkey=CMHf6fDOxqKffQ

Part 5 - IAWP Savannah 2015 - Dr Indigo Triplett - Workshops - (79 photos) https://plus.google.com/photos/117053039113041057462/albums/6162335627873684561?authkey=CKqr-YvN2fruiQE

Part 6 - IAWP Savannah 2015 - Business Meeting - Buffalo NY Invitation - Closing ceremonies - Banquet and Ball (146 photos} https://plus.google.com/photos/117053039113041057462/albums/6162358922243615649?authkey=CPWBh-3qz9iU6AE

IAWP Savannah 2015 Photos—Taken and provided by David Slimp

Continued on page 14

PAGE 14 COUNTDOWN

Continued from page 13

PAGE 15 JULY 2015

I am saddened by Eva’s untimely death in June 2015. The Illinois Chapter of IAWP lost a remarkable member. Eva left behind loving family and many friends. She was grace-ful, upbeat, elegant, and beautiful and at the same time, strong, bright, hardworking, and she got things done re-markably well. I got to know Eva in 2004 when I was ap-pointed as the Illinois Chapter’s International Develop-ment Chair. Eva had held the post earlier and she was already retired from the Illinois Department of Employ-ment Security. Eva was so generous in sharing infor-mation with me and showed me whatever was necessary for me to do IAWP’s International Development Work which was new to me. Actually, Eva never slowed down her International Development work especially for nurtur-ing the Ukraine Chapter which she had initiated to form in 2001. Now is the time to celebrate her legendary achieve-ments for the IAPES/IAWP international development arena. On Eva’s death, Ihor Tsvilynyuk, the president of the IAWP Ukraine Chapter, said it the best about Eva’s achievements: “It was a woman with beautiful personal and professional qualities, who wanted her initiatives to change the world and make it better. We appreciate the work of Eva Zelenko on accession of Eastern European countries (especially Ukraine) to IAWP.” His remarks reminded me of what Eva said once to me. She wanted to help the people in Ukraine see how volunteer work from individuals can achieve great things in a democratic society. Eva received the IAWP Individual International Develop-ment Award twice. Additionally, she received the Illinois Chapter’s International Development Award several times. Eva served as a member of the IAWP International Devel-opment Sub-Committee, was the Illinois Chapter’s Interna-tional Development Chair from 1995-2001, was the Retiree Chair of Illinois Chapter and received an Illinois Chapter Retiree Award. In 1977 with Eva’s initiatives, the Russia/Kaliningrad Chapter was officially formed and inducted into IAWP, for which she received her IAWP Individual International De-velopment Award for the first time. In 2001, Eva worked to form and induct the Ukraine Chapter into IAWP and she received her second IAWP Individual International Development Award. In 1998, Eva raised funds to bring Russia/Kaliningrad Chapter’s President to Puerto Rico to attend the IAPES International Conference. For that work and for the Illinois Chapter’s overall accomplishments, the Illinois Chapter received the IAWP International Develop-ment Chapter Award in 1998.

According to Larry Ludwick, former IAWP International Devel-opment Committee Chair, Eva played a key role in organizing the first District XIX (Europe) conference in 2001 in Vilnius, Lithua-nia, at which delegates attended from all five European IAPES Chapters, as well as individual IAPES members from Estonia, Armenia and the United States. Organizing the two chapters and the conference was a tremendous undertaking requiring courage, dedication, hard work, and perseverance. Since then, she continu-ously stood at the forefront of activities designed for nurturing the Ukrainian Chapter’s growth and development. She inspired some IAWP members to emulate her initiatives, and they helped form other IAWP International Chapters abroad. Her remarkable journey following the international development aims of IAWP began in 1995 when she attended the IAPES Con-ference in Poland. This was where she convinced officials from Kaliningrad, Russia to form an IAPES chapter in their country which lead to Eva’s invitation to Kaliningrad. In 1996, Eva ac-cepted their offer and traveled to Kaliningrad to form a chapter, which was inducted into IAPES in 1997 at the International Con-ference in Columbus, Ohio. In July 1997, she attended the open-ing of the Women’s Center in Poland and visited Kiev, Ukraine at the invitation of the Labor Minister for her to introduce the asso-ciation. Eva traveled to Kiev, Ukraine to initiate an IAPES chap-ter in 2000, followed by the Ukraine Chapter being inducted into the IAPES in 2001. Eva continued international development work by taking trips to the Ukraine Chapter and keeping track of the progress of the chapter. She kept donating to the IAWP International Delegate Fund. I remember Eva donating many beautiful traditional Ukrainian Easter eggs and recruiting her Lithuanian friend to do-nate large quantity of amber jewelry and Lithuanian embroidery to raise funds for international delegates, which were sold at the In-ternational Conferences. Eva was an active member of the pres-tigious Ukraine Coordinated Council of America and the Ukraine National Women’s League of America which has chapters around the world. She was a key member of those organiza-tions doing much important volunteer work for the Illi-nois Ukraine community. Alas, Eva is not with us anymore. I will miss her. Let us pray for Eva’s soul.

Remembering Eva Zelenko By Eunhee Choi Milutinovic, Retiree member, Illinois Chapter

Seasons

COUNTDOWN

Jeanne M. Preston of North Fort Myers, FL passed away following a long, wonderful life on Tuesday, May 19, 2015. She was 93 years old. She was born on January 19, 1922 in Canton, Ohio, the beautiful daughter of Ida E. (Oldham) and Edwin J. Custer. Jeanne was a member of the White Shrine of Jerusalem, a Lady Elk, and a long-standing member of Lowell Church in Canton, OH. She leaves behind her 'family': Greg and Wendy Rex of N. Ft. Myers, FL, Susan (Rex) and Jack Hilbert of N. Can-ton, OH and Lynn (Rex) and Rick Forbes of Hartville, OH. She also takes with her many good memories of her friends from the days when she resided in Buccaneer Estates in N. Ft. Myers, FL and Sterling House of Cape Coral, FL. A visitation for Jeanne was held on Tuesday,

May 26, 2015 in the Chapel at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens; with a me-morial service immediately following. Friends and family recessed to adjacent Memorial Gardens Cemetery where Jeanne was laid to rest alongside her late husband, 'Red'. Those who wish to offer condolences to the family, share a story, or leave a trib-ute for Jeanne may visit her memorial webpage at www.fortmyersmemorial.com and sign the guestbook. Jeanne Preston was an Ohio Life Member. She joined IAP-ES/IAWP in 1965.

Jeanne M. Preston

Seasons

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

IAWP is YOUR Professional Association. We hope you will share your skills and interests to assist us in providing quality

member programs. Help your chapter grow by using your talents to get involved in a committee or activity – you’ll love it!

Full Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________

Home Address: __________________________________________________________________________________

City: ___________________________________________________________State _______ Zip Code ___________

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E-mail address ___________________________________________________________________________________

Office Phone: ________________________________________Office fax: ___________________________________

Optional information: Home phone:____________________ Home email: _________________________________

Referred by ______________________________________________________________________________________

New Member _______ Renewal _______

Regular Membership $50.00 int’l dues + ___ chapter dues = _________

Retiree Membership $25.00 int’l dues + ___ chapter dues = ________

Introductory Membership $25.00 int’l dues + ___ chapter dues = ________

Make your check or money order payable to: __________________________________________________________

Mail application with payment to: ____________________________________________________________________

Page 16

BECOME PART OF AN OUTSTANDING GROUP OF WORKFORCE PROFESSIONALS!

July 2015 Page 17

1) JOIN IAWP 2) COMPLETE the Workforce Professional Development Program (WPDP) 3) GET YOURSELF CERTIFIED

1) MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Go to iawponline.org, on the left side of the page click on join IAWP, then click on Membership Application. Complete the applica-tion and mail with membership fee. It’s that simple! You will receive a membership packet from the Administrative Office and the state chapter in your area will contact you. 2) WORKFORCE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (WPDP)

A series of study guides and tests to increase your knowledge about the workforce development system. There are 4 modules and tests

for each module.

Modules:

History of Workforce Development (Units 1-4) Unemployment Insurance (Units 1-4)

Labor Market Information (Units 1-4) Business and Job Seeker (Units 1-4)

Tests:

25 multiple-choice questions

75% correct answers to pass (19 out of 25)

Tests are online and available anywhere an Internet connection is available

Costs:

$10 for each unit (includes study guide and exam)

Timeframes:

36 months to complete each module

Once you complete all the WPDP units you will receive a WPDP Master designation and are qualified to apply for certification as

an IAWP Certified Workforce Specialist (CWS).

3) CERTIFIED WORKFORCE SPECIALIST (CWS)

The Certified Workforce Specialist (CWS) credential after your name shows you are part of an outstanding group of workforce profes-

sionals who have extensive knowledge and experience in workforce issues. It shows you have passed a rigorous competency-based

testing program from an international association, that you are respected by your peers, and that you see professional membership as

an important part of your career. The CWS designation shows current and potential employers your initiative in developing, maintain-

ing, and improving your career skills within the workforce field. There are 4 certification requirements:

Education plus Experience

Professional Membership

IAWP Workforce Professional Development Program (WPDP) completion

Professional References.

The certification is valid for 3 years and can be renewed with additional education.

For more information on WPDP and CWS check out the IAWP website iawponline.org; on the left side of the page click on

Education and then click on WPDP and CWS for all the details.

Harbor State Park, Goat Island, and the Niagara Riv-er. If you wish to go across the bridge to Canada, then bring your pass-port. Won’t you help us make history! We promise you a conference to re-member.

See you in Buffalo June 26-29, 2016!

New York, New Jersey and all of District 1 are getting revved up and ready to put on the 103rd IAWP Annual Educational Conference in Buffalo and we hope you will commit to join us in 2016. After all, we have history to write. In 1916, the first New York State IAPES/IAWP conference was held in Buffalo, NY so we will be recreating history. We'll be there and I hope you will be there too! We are planning entertaining educational and social events. We are sure to WOW you. As a side note to help with your preparation, Niagara Falls can be seen from the American and Canadian side, as well as the famous Maid of the Mist boat tour. There’s lot’s to see and do in Buffalo. You can enjoy the beauty of Buffalo

See you in Buffalo in 2016 By Sue Riley, NYS Sub-chapter President &

Linda Chapman, NYS President

Bulletin Board

COUNTDOWN Page 18

Mark your 2015 calendars . . .

July 31 Countdown articles due in IAWP Administrative Office for August

Workforce Professional editorial and advertising due in IAWP Administrative Office

August 7-8 2015-16 Board of Directors Meeting, Hyatt Regency, Buffalo, New York

August 8 2015-16 Conference Planning Meeting, Hyatt Buffalo, New York.

August 31 Countdown articles due in IAWP Administrative Office for September

Sept 30 Countdown articles due in IAWP Administrative Office for October

Workforce Professional editorial and advertising due in IAWP Admin Office

Oct 1 (postmarked by) Plans for Education, Communication, Chapter Development, Recognition and Market

ing are due to the Administrative Office

Oct 16-18 Executive Director Interview Meeting

Oct 30 Countdown articles due in IAWP Administrative Office for November

Nov 30 Countdown articles due in IAWP Administrative Office for December

Dec 10 December Jumpstart transmittals and dues to Administrative Office

Dec 24 Winter Holiday, IAWP Administrative Office closed through January 5, 2016

Attention: 2015-2016 IAWP Board Members

Fall Board Meeting Information:

IAWP Fall Board Meeting will be held in Buffalo, New York at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo; August 7-8, 2015.

The conference planning committee will also meet at this time.

Board Members Information:

Deadline for pictures, bio, beneficiary form from board is . . . August 1, 2015. For more information contact Paige

Stodghill at 888-898-9960.