Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Thursday, June 12, 2008 BlueCross/Blue Shield & Kaiser dropped from SHBP Enrollment Options Search: Georgia Statement Subscribe to The Georgia Statement today!!! Effective January 1, 2009, the BlueCross BlueShield/Lumenos options will no longer be offered to employees. However, according to a DCH claims analysis, over 97 percent of the providers utilized by BlueCross BlueShield members also participate in either the CIGNA or United Healthcare networks. Kaiser Permanente, also current health care provider provides a network primarily in metro areas of the state. However, due to the fact that most Kaiser physicians are employed by Kaiser Permanente and will not be in the CIGNA or United Healthcare networks, SHBP is extending the Kaiser contract for an additional year through 2009. Only members currently enrolled in Kaiser in 2008 will be able to select Kaiser during the Open Enrollment for the 2009 plan year. This will allow members an additional year to make the transition from Kaiser physicians to new physicians. Governor Perdue's recent appointments Richard A. Anderson was elected Executive Director of the Georgia Regional Transporation Authority (GRTA) on March 12, 2008. Before pursuing opportunities in public service, Anderson retired as Group President of Global Business Services for AT&T and BellSouth. Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement GEFA: Providing Environmental Leadership Meet The Agency Head for the State of Georgia since 1985 Submitted By GEFA, Chris Clark, Executive Director Shane Hix, Communications Director The Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA) began in 1985 as an innovative program offering $20 million annually to small communities for water and sewer infrastructure projects. GEFAs loan programs for environmental infrastructure have grown into a robust funding source providing approximately $300 million annually to Georgia's communities. The loan programs today can accommodate any type of water, sewer, or solid waste project. To date, GEFA has committed more than $2.4 billion for water and sewer system upgrades or expansions. GEFAs original mission to finance environmental infrastructure adjusted to Georgia's continued and rapid growth by evolving to include financing and other support services for land conservation projects, energy and renewable programs, and fuel storage systems that result in a cleaner environment for all Georgians. The newest GEFA initiatives are Conserve Georgia, the Governors Energy Challenge 2020 and the Georgia Reservoir Water Supply Fund. Created by Governor Perdue, Conserve Georgia is a statewide multi-agency marketing and public education effort aimed at promoting the conservation of energy, land and water; the prevention of litter; and the promotion of recycling. The programs website conservegeorgia.org is a portal to the states conservation programs. If anyone or any organization wants to know how they can conserve the states natural resources, they can go to conservegeorgia.org and easily access all of Georgias conservation programs and information. Governor Perdue launched the Governors Energy Challenge 2020earlier this year as a component of Conserve Georgia. The Governor committed all state agencies to take coordinated measures to reduce energy consumption 15 percent by 2020. Georgia's citizens and businesses are challenged to match the states commitment to help ensure that Georgias natural resources are protected for future generations to use and to enjoy. Meeting this goal will lessen Georgias dependence on traditional energy sources, reduce our water use, support our economy, and improve the environment. In May, Governor Perdue signed the Water Conservation and Drought Relief Act (SB342), which brings state agencies together to support reservoir construction and expansion. The legislation, which directed GEFA to establish a water supply division and the Georgia Reservoir Water Supply Fund, will help improve the states drought management efforts. The Environmental Protection Division (EPD) will facilitate local governments efforts by expediting aspects of permitting for new reservoir applications. With $70 million in funds recommended by the Governor and approved by the General Assembly, GEFA will assist local governments with financing reservoir and water supply infrastructure projects. Additional Programs and Services The GEFA Division of Energy Resources serves as the State Energy Office. At the direction of Governor Sonny Perdue, the Division guided the development of the State Energy Strategy: a comprehensive set of policy options and implementation strategies that will steer Georgia toward an affordable, reliable, and environmentally responsible energy future. The Division of Energy Resources is also responsible for implementing the Governors Energy Challenge 2020, the Weatherization Assistance Program and the State Energy Program. The Division encourages energy efficiency programs, provides support to agencies and organizations that manage Georgias residential green building program, and generates support for advanced energy technologies. GEFA is also home to Georgias alternative fuels program through the Energy Innovation Center. The program works with state and federal agencies to encourage the growth of the alternative fuels industry. Moreover, it helps the state recruit new bioenergy production companies, researchers and investors to Georgia while educating the public about the environmental and economic benefits of the bioenergy industry. GEFA finances land conservation projects through the Georgia Land Conservation Program (GLCP). GLCP partners with cities, counties and private landowners to protect and preserve valuable natural resources for future generations through a combination of land conservation tools and funding options such as competitive grants, low interest loans and tax incentives. Fifty land conservation projects have been endorsed since 2005, protecting more than 64,000 acres. GEFAs Fuel Storage Tank Division (FST) assists state personnel with upgrading and/or removing fuel storage tanks at state-owned facilities, investigating possible loss of fuel into the soil/groundwater, and remedying any contamination that may have occurred. FST also oversees the operations and maintenance of the tanks, conducts operator training, and is currently developing an outreach program that will assist local governments with the management of their fuel storage tanks. Customer Service - A Core Value for GEFA Providing outstanding and responsive service to Georgias communities is a GEFA hallmark. In 2006, GEFA received the Georgia Oglethorpe Award, the states top award for organizational performance excellence. The award recognizes GEFAs commitment to customer service, continuous improvement and measurable results. GEFAs loan application process is comprehensive but evenhanded, and GEFA strives to make project financing hassle-free for applicants. Applications are reviewed quickly; approvals often provided within 30 days. GEFA employs various safeguards, uses a low debt-service-coverage ratio and closely monitors customer repayments to maintain a high quality loan portfolio. There has not been a single loan default in GEFAs history. In May 2007, Chris Clark, former deputy commissioner for global commerce at the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), was tapped by Governor Sonny Perdue to be the executive director of the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA). Recently, as Clark reminisced about his decision to leave GDEcD to accept his new role, he remembered something his grandmother said: Don1t go where they want you, but go where they need you. While some may not understand the connection between the economy and the environment, Clark sees a unique interaction between the two. We cannot have economic development without water and a high quality of life, said Clark. Businesses and industries become better stewards of our natural resources when they understand the link between the economy and the environment. Ultimately, like GDEcD, GEFA1s purpose is to improve quality of life for all Georgians. For example, since 1985, GEFA has provided more than $2.4 billion in loans and grants to local governments for environmental infrastructure and energy and recycling projects; and since its inception in 2005, GEFA1s Georgia Land Conservation Program has preserved more than 80,000 acres of land. GEFA has many ongoing initiatives such as collaborating with the private sector and academia to find energy and fuel alternatives, which includes utilizing Georgia1s abundant pine resources as a source of ethanol; and the recruitment of the ethanol and biodiesel production industry to Georgia. GEFA1s newest initiatives are Conserve Georgia, the Governor1s Energy Challenge 2020, and the Georgia Reservoir and Water Supply Fund. Clark considers helping members of his workforce team reach their full potential as one of his key accomplishments. Giving his staff the opportunity to achieve their goals and to develop clear career paths has enabled Clark to surround himself with a strong team; he emphasizes that every member of his almost 50 person staff makes a concrete contribution to GEFA1s success. Clark1s objective is to have people proud to come to work every day. People want to matter and it1s easy for employers to lose sight of this, says Clark. With his philosophy of leading his team by servant leadership, it is commonplace for him to recognize the hard work of GEFA1s employees, which includes serving pancakes to the staff during the agency1s employee appreciation week breakfast. In 1991 I was called to public service, and I1ve devoted myself to that mission ever since, said Clark. Whatever that path is, I will work hard and do my best. I have had good mentors. I1ve been blessed to get the opportunity to do this. Clark is a native of Fitzgerald, Georgia. He earned his bachelor1s degree from Georgia Southern University and a master1s degree in public administration from GeorgiaCollegeand State University. Clark resides in FayetteCounty with his wife, Tiffany, and son, Christian While the responsibilities of GEFA are varied and broad, GEFA staff strives to serve all customers in a fast, friendly, and easy manner. For more information about GEFAs programs, please visit www.gefa.org or call (404) 584-1000. Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Money Matters A SECURE RETIREMENT REQUIRES CAREFUL PLANNING "How much will I need to retire?" That is the question we ask ourselves over and over. Financial planners estimate that you will need 80% to 100% of your current income to maintain your same standard of living. Therefore, the amount of income you will need is based on your lifestyle choices for your future, such as traveling frequently or moving closer to your children and then finding that real estate is very expensive in that area. One thing is certain a secure retirement requires careful planning. The decisions you make now will affect your retirement. Some people want to retire earlier than the traditional retirement age of 65. Some people want to pursue new interests or part time jobs, while others just want to relax. But, the common thread is the desire to retire in comfort. Financial experts are pretty much in agreement: save for retirement sooner rather than later. It is never too early to begin saving for retirement. As long as you are earning a paycheck, it is wise to save for your future. Every year you delay putting money away for retirement, you are losing money. When saving for retirement, you will want to consider your retirement goals, the number of years until you retire, your tolerance for risk, and the tax implications of your investments. Also, realize that most people will spend an average of 25 or more years in retirement. Retirement income can come from a variety of sources - Social Security, employer pensions, and IRAs. To enjoy a comfortable retirement, however, you will almost certainly need to accumulate savings to supplement your retirement income. Figuring out what you need, and how to get it, is not simple. A qualified financial planner can help you evaluate all the factors (e.g., inflation) that will influence your retirement income. Below is a worksheet that will help you estimate your current annual expenses (http:// www.metlife.com/Applications/Corporate/WPS/ CDA/PageGenerator/0,4773,P1946,00. html) Many people view Social Security as an important part of their retirement income. The age at which you will receive full retirement benefits (called "full retirement age") is shown in the table below. *Source: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/retirechart.htm What can you do? There are many ways you can start saving for your retirement. You can contribute a percentage of your pay check each month to invest in an IRA. If you invest in a traditional IRA, you might be able to take a tax deduction for the amount. If you invest in a Roth IRA, you will get a tax deduction, but your earnings will be tax-free. As a State of Georgia employee, you have options provided by the Employer's Retirement System of Georgia (ERS). Along with the defined benefit plans, ERS offers the Peach State Reserves 401(k) and 457 plans. (http://www.ersga.org/PSR/employee/deferred. asp.) As we know, the current economy is challenging. However the more you save now, the better your retirement future will be. In good times or bad times, the financial rules are the same: q Spend less than you earn. q Invest the rest. q Let the market compound your money over time. So, if you have not already, take that first step to assure your comfortable retirement. Click on this link http://retireplan.about.com/ to discover more retirement tips. Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Vocabulary Test your Vocabulary. Definitions selected from Dictionary. com Vocabulary Quiz 1. Full of excitement or interest. A. desideratum B. agog C. eleemosynary D. expatiate E. impecunious 2. desired or considered necessary. A. desideratum B. expatiate C. impecunious D. impertinent E. paroxysm 3. charitable A. expatiate B. impecunious C. impertinent D. eleemosynary E. paucity 4. To speak or write at length or in considerable detail A. impecunious B. impertinent C. paroxysm D. expatiate E. pugnacious 5. habitually without money; poor A. Ubiquitous B. desideratum C. agog D. impecunious E. paroxysm 6. Intrusive or presumptuous, as persons or their actions A. desideratum B. Ubiquitous C. expatiate D. agog E. impertinent 7. Any sudden and violent emotion or action; a fit A. eleemosynary B. paroxysm C. Ubiquitous D. expatiate E. desideratum 8. smallness of number; scarcity A. eleemosynary B. lionize C. paucity D. paroxysm E. desideratum 9. quarrelsome A. minion B. fatuous C. inveigh D. lionize E. pugnacious 10. Being or seeming to be everywhere at the same time A. calumny B. Ubiquitous C. surfeit D. prolix E. vacuity Get score Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Select Criteria for Search To run a report, fill out the required criteria field(s) below. Fill out optional criteria fields to further refine the report results. In some cases, you may leave the fields blank to return all records. Agency Includes First Name Includes Last Name Includes Years of Service Includes Search Results per Page: 10 For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Technology Tip WEBINARS, WEB-BASED SEMINARS Okay, youve been invited to a number of webinars and yet no one has explained exactly what a webinar is and why they are becoming such a common occurrence in the workplace. Of course, as the name implies, it is a technology delivered via the World Wide Web (www). Webinar is short for Web-based seminar that enables live communication and participation through the use of a computer. Webinars have grown in popularity as an alternative to face-to-face meetings because of its convenience and flexibility. People and/or groups can participate regardless of their location. As a result, travel costs are often reduced or eliminated. The most common purpose of most webinars is training and development. Additionally, it is also used as a growing business communication and marketing tool. Basic resources needed to attend a webinar include a computer, Internet access, and a phone line if required for a teleconferencing component. Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Procurement Search: Georgia Statement State Purchasing Electronic Sourcing Tool Keeps Improving By Brad Douglas, DOAS Commissioner Since its introduction in October 2004, State Purchasing Division electronic sourcing tool, eQuote, has continued to add enhancements based on user feedback. The most recent update of the electronic sourcing system went into place on March 31stthis year, elevating eQuote from a simple tool for small value bids to a robust electronic quote program complete with many levels of functionality and options to gain competitive bids for even larger purchases by state agencies and universities. The eQuote system is helping buyers at agencies and institutions across the state automate their procurement functions. Requirements for hard-copy documents and slow, cumbersome mail delivery have been replaced by electronic submissions significantly decreasing the time taken to obtain competitive price quotes. The system allows buyers to electronically generate a solicitation, automatically notify vendors whose registration indicates they might be potential sellers of the product or service, then have vendor responses transmitted and analyzed automatically. Any changes to the solicitation, such as addenda or other modifications, are sent directly to all responding vendors. The latest enhancements to eQuote ensure best practices and management efficiency resulting in savings of both time and money. Included in the many benefits of eQuote are: An ability to source in specific geographical areas of Georgia No limit on buying amount, within an agency delegated purchasing authority Provides more visibility in sourcing Assists with managing risk Ensures best practice and management efficiency Enhances process review capability Provides for substantially more robust functionality Saves time and money for purchasing agents and vendors System-generated random vendor sourcing Additional vendors can be added on the fly Documents can be attached as needed Purchasing agents can use an unlimited number of NIGP Codes Allows award to be split among several vendors Provides electronic bid tabulations and awards Automatic notification to vendors when changes are made The ability to issue a Notice of Intent to Award (NOIA) Reporting capability which includes spend data Web-based for easy access Training provided through webinars and Vendor Guide The State Purchasing Division actively encourages every buyer across the state to utilize the new eQuote and all its features and functionality. Additional information and a link to the eQuote system can be found at the State Purchasing Division webpage: www.statepurchasing.doas.georgia.gov. Information about eQuote training is also available at the SPD webpage. Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Workforce Tips Search: Georgia Statement For Employees: Keys to Effective Multi-tasking How can you be more productive and efficient as an employee with so many different tasks to complete in a days work? It's hard to complete anything well you're your attention and focus is spread over a variety of projects and approaching deadlines. Yes, multitasking can be an unexpected culprit for decreased productivity. But everyone has to multi-task, right? Yes, it's almost necessary in today's environment. Here are a few considerations so you can manage your day with increased efficiency. q First and foremost, prioritize. It is necessary in all things, especially daily tasks. It allows you to determine where to spend the majority of your time and effort. q Schedule a specific time to do other activities, projects and tasks. Until the schedule time is upon you, focus your full attention on the project at hand. Don't allow any distractions from the other items on the to-do list until the scheduled time. Even if you scheduled task B for 1p.m. but receive a call or an email concerning project B at 11 a.m. - kindly indicate that you will need to follow-up with the person sometime after 1 p.m. This way, you keep your focus and stay on track. q Be resourceful and mindful of steps and processes that prolong the task without adding any value. Make any needed recommendations to your manager or supervisor to eliminate the extra. Some practices are passes along although they were developed to address issues that may no longer be relevant. q Create and check off task on a to-do list. q Notify manager or colleagues as soon as possible when you determine that you are overwhelmed and may not be able to complete your assignment. Ask for any additional resources needed. q Clarify all assignments and create a management plan or system to handle the different requirement of each task. For Managers: Engaging Employees As you know, there is a direct correlation between engaged employees and employee productivity. As managers, it is important to understand and determine if the employees you supervise are engaged. If you find you have some employees who are disengaged, there are steps you can take to swing the pendulum. It may not be easy, especially if the employee is disgruntled. However, the benefits, if you are successful in turning the employee around, are well worth the extra effort. Consider the following: q Involve employees in the various aspects of the performance management process. Provide feedback often not just during an annual review. q Be sure to clarify written expectations, especially those that are relevant to main assignments and responsibilities. q As you assign tasks, dont assume employees know all the details. Make employees feel comfortable about asking questions to clarify any fuzzy areas they may have. q Ensure employees have all the resources they need to complete the task efficiently. q Encourage and support employee development. According to some research, this is an area employees value as a top priority. June 2008 Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Wellness Lifestyle changes can help reduce cancer risk More and more, cancer is affecting lives without regard to age, race, geography, or any other demographic. Cancer does not discriminate. There are about 10 million cancer cases that occur around the world each year according to the World Cancer Report, a report by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Cancer is responsible for approximately six million deaths each year. Fortunately, the world is learning more about lifestyle changes to help people around the globe prevent this deadly disease. Perhaps the most significant is eliminating tobacco. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Cigarette smoking is the number one preventable cause of death in the United States harming nearly every organ of the body. Tobacco usage can also be linked to heart disease and respiratory illnesses. Smoking can be responsible for many types of cancer including: lip, oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, pancreas, larynx (voice box), lung, uterine cervix, urinary bladder, and kidney. If you are a smoker and quit, your risk of cancer decreases. However, this disease is most preventable with a tobacco-less lifestyle. Secondly, a healthy lifestyle of diet and exercise, while maintaining a healthy weight, may also reduce the occurrence of cancer. Foods high in vitamins and antioxidants are not only good for a healthy lifestyle but can help prevent some forms of cancer. For example, risk of colorectal cancer may be reduced eating foods high in calcium. And folate, consumed by eating vegetables, fruits, and enriched grain products, can also reduce cancer risk. In fact, current information suggest physical activity, weight control, and a healthy diet may delay or prevent the development of cancer even in people with an increased genetic risk for cancer. Cooking methods such as braising, steaming, poaching, stewing, and microwaving meats produce fewer of the chemicals associated with frying, broiling and grilling meats at high temperatures. There is a wealth of information concerning how to live healthy and thus, reduce or prevent cancer. Check out the following links to begin: American Cancer Society q Prevention and Early Detection q Nutritional guidelines q Questions and Answers Georgia Cancer Foundation q Volunteer & Support Explore wellness through the following links: q Fitness Jumpsite, a connection to a lifestyle of fitness, nutrition and health www.primusweb.com/fitnesspartner q A variety of fitness information www.netsweat.com q National Health Information Resources Center www.health.gov/nhic q National Institute on Health provides information on illnesses and chronic conditions www.health.nih.gov q 50 Million Pound Challenge and BMI calculator www.50millionpounds. com Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Listen Up!!! Welcome to Let's Hear It! More than a year ago we introduced the forum in the Georgia Statement print publication. Your response was enormous. Now, with the new web friendly, online format of the Georgia Statement, state employees can post comments relative to a variety of subject areas created over the last year. Rules: The forum is strictly for state employees. All comments must be appropriate and professional. View our terms and conditions. Please do not post any private comments unless you want it to be available publicly. Keep comments brief and relative to the subject area of the posting. Discussion areas include: State government questions and answers q State Benefits q Compensation q State Performance System q Workforce Issues q Employee Work/Life Balance Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Back To: Home Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Helping Others Browse Here for opportunites to Help Others Featured Organization Georgia School for the Deaf The Georgia School for the Deaf (GSD) located in Cave Spring, Georgia (http://www.cityofcavespring.com) was established in 1846 as the tenth school for the deaf in the United States. more... Collection Programs 1. Box Tops for Education http://www.boxtops4education.com or http://www.btfe.com 3 ways to earn: q Collect Box Tops q Shop online at the Box Tops Market Place q Order Books through the Box Tops Book Club We can earn up to $60,000 a year in this program. Publix Box Tops also has a website specifically for Box Tops http://www.publixboxtops.com 2. Campbell's Labels for Education http://www.labelsforeducation.com *Collect UPC codes from participating products. GSD then redeems those points for instructional supplies, materials, equipment, etc. 3. Tyson Project A+ http://www.tysonprojecta+.com *Collect SUPPORT YOUR SCHOOL 123 Red Labels. Each label is worth 24 cents. Earn up to $12,000 year in this program 4. School Pop http://www.schoolpop.com *Click here before you do any shopping on the internet. Participating merchants give a % of your purchase directly back to GSD* 5. Kroger Earning Plus Learning http://www.krogerearningpluslearning.com *Please print the Kroger Letter here and present to the cashier the next time you go shopping. A % of your purchases goes directly back to GSD. * 6. My Coke Rewards http://www.mycokerewards.com *Send your bottle caps or cardboard cut outs bearing the mycokerewards code for us to enter in our mycokerewards account. These points are then redeemed for materials we can use for either door prizes, auctions, or awards. You may also email me the codes and save the hassle of having to mail them or send them to school with your child. 7. Target - Take Charge of Education http://www.targettakechargeofeducation.com *Sign up to Support GSD and a % of your purchases at Target directly benefit GSD. 8. Nestle Pure Life - Go Play Labels http://www.goplaylabels.com *Collect the labels, turn them into the school. We then redeem them for equipment for our Wellness and Athletic programs. 9. GoodSearch and GoodShop http://www.goodsearch.com *Search the internet using this search engine and earn 1 penny back for every search you perform* *Good Shop on the Good Search website and a % of your purchases directly benefit GSD* 10. Search and Give http://www.searchandgive.com #1 - Search (Similar to the program 'GoodSearch' the http://www.searchandgive.com search engine allows you to do your internet searching on their website and earn 1 penny for every search you conduct; up to 10 cents per day per registered person) #2 - Play Scholastic Games (This part of the program allows you to play educational games that earn you tickets *similar to the paper tickets that come out of games at arcades* Each ticket is worth a penny. The best part...THERE IS NO LIMIT TO HOW MANY TICKETS YOU CAN EARN IN A DAY! 11. Phones for Good website: http://www.phonesforgood.com 12. UPromise website: http://www.upromise.com Featured Charity The Georgia School for the Deaf (GSD) located in Cave Spring, Georgia (http:// www.cityofcavespring.com) was established in 1846 as the tenth school for the deaf in the United States. We've been educating deaf and hard-of hearing students for 162 years, except from 1862-1867 when Fannin Hall was used by the Union and Confederate forces as a hospital. Today Deaf and hard-of-hearing students from over 50 counties in the State of Georgia, ages 3-21, attend GSD as they prepare to become independent, productive adults. Our students travel from all over the state on Sunday evenings to live here during the week to attend school. Many of the students travel more than 5 hours by bus twice a week so they can spend time with their families on the weekends. GSD is home to the 2007-2008 National 8-Man Deaf Football Champions AND the 20072008 Mason Dixon Girls Basketball Champions. We take extreme pride in the athletic accomplishments of our students. GSD is also home to a unique choir called "DeSign." DeSign is composed of a group of talented students that use American Sign Language to bring music to life using their hands. This choir provides an insight to how beautiful music can be even when you are not able to "hear" the words. DeSign had the privilege of performing in front of over 10,000 people at the World Congress right in May! GSD strives to provide the same extracurricular activities for its students that a regular public school provides, however raising funds for programs such as DeSign and athletics has many challenges. We do not have the traditional booster clubs and fundraisers like bake sales, car washes, and door to door candy sales that regular public schools have; this is why GSD needs your support. We participate in a wide variety of easy fundraising programs that are designed to take minimal time and effort on your part. All of the funds generated through fundraising helps to cover activities that State Funds do not cover. If you would like to be added to the supporters list for GSD please send your contact information to: Angela Pluto @ apluto@doe.k12.ga.us. Supporters of GSD can expect updates on fundraising news, collection goals, and contests. In addition, if you have any questions about any of our fundraising programs or have any ideas or suggestions I would love to hear from you! Please send me an email or contact me by phone at (706)777-2294. Thank you in advance for your support. Please send your collections of boxtops, labels, and caps to: Angela Pluto Fundraising Coordinator The Georgia School for the Deaf 232 Perry Farm Rd, SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 Communication SCCP News... Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Spring Summit New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Redesign of the State's Job Class Year-Round Open Enrollment State Health Benefits Plan For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Returning Users Log In Email address: Password: Thursday, June 12, 2008 Forgot Password? Automatically log me in on future visits New User Sign Up If you are a state employee you can take advantage of this single entry point for useful information and services to support you in your job. "Thank you for your dedication to serving the people of Georgia. Each one of you is an important member of the New Georgia Team, and I consider it an honor to serve as your Governor." State employees who do not have a state email address can request to use a personal email address. Need Assistance? For Team Georgia Connection assistance, call: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 6:00pm Atlanta metro: (678) georgia (436-7442) Statewide (Toll Free): (800) georgia (436-7442) Email: help@georgia.gov Georgia911.org Get the most up to date information during an emergency or disaster. More Georgia State Government Agencies & Organizations Office of the Governor Georgia General Assembly Commission for a New Georgia Governor Perdue and the Commission's primary goal is for Georgia to become the nation's best-managed state. More Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement SCCP News... State Employees raise almost 3 million for SCCP The SCCP, authorized by the Georgia General Assembly in 1982 and raising a mere $60 thousand during its first year, offers state government employees an annual opportunity to help thousands of Georgia families and non-profit organizations. Employees selected from more than 1200 local charitable organizations to contribute by payroll deduction or a one-time lump-sum payment. Fundraisers were also sponsored by various state entities to increase donations as well. This year, contributions increased by $240,000 over last year's total. This year's awardees include: Governor's Cup Highest contribution per employee: 1-100 Employees Skidaway Institute of Oceanography 101-500 Employees Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia 501-1000 Employees Georgia Technology Authority 1001-9000 Employees Georgia Institute of Technology 9001 and up Employees University of Georgia Governor's Award - Largest Increase in Contributions Georgia Institute of Technology, $99,000, and Department of Juvenile Justice, $16,395 Governor's Award - Highest Level of Employee Participation Atlanta Metropolitan College, 68%, Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity, 100% Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority, 100% Office of State Administrative Hearings, 100% Commissioner's Award Categories (Same criteria is used as for Governor's Cups) 1-100 employees (2 awards) q -Employees Retirement System q -State Road and Tollway Authority 101-500 employees (6 awards) q -State Personnel Administration q -Dept. of Administrative Services q -Department of Economic Development q -Dept. of Community Affairs q -Georgia Dept. of Early Care and Learning q -Dept. of Banking and Finance 501-1000 employees (2 awards) q Dept. of Revenue q Georgia World Congress Center 1001 to 9000 employees (2 awards) q Georgia State University q Dept. of Transportation 9001 and up (1 award) q Department of Human Resources Print this page For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Public Employee Recognition Week (PERW) Winners Customer Service Awards Individual Customer Service Dawn Bassett Georgia Bureau of Investigation Dawn Bassett was hired by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation as a laboratory technician in the Forensic Biology Section in August 1997 and has been with the Bureau for approximately ten years. In November 1998, Dawn was promoted to scientist and trained in forensic serology and DNA analysis. She has worked as a forensic biologist for the past nine years. Dawn volunteered to take on the duties of the State CODIS Administrator in July 2006. CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) allows for the electronic comparison of DNA profiles within a state or across the country. Dawn resolves potential matches (or `hits') generated in Georgia and nationally. Historically for Georgia a CODIS search would generate 8 10 hits. The first search Dawn performed resulted in over 100 hits. From January to December 2007, she resolved ~200 hits in Georgia that linked unsolved crimes to convicted felons. Because of her service, hundreds of cases have been solved both in Georgia and across the United States. Dawn was nominated for this award because she demonstrates professionalism and consistently goes above and beyond her required duties, assisting agencies with CODIS and keeping the scientists informed of unsolved cases they have worked in which a hit has occurred. Team Customer Service Victims Visitor's Day State Board of Pardons and Paroles The Parole Board's senior management team was nominated because they lead and support agency staff in their respective Divisions/Units who carry out a unique initiative that serves crime victims and their families. Victim Visitor's Day is an outreach initiative where Board Members and representatives encourage crime victims to become informed and involved in the case of their offender. Crime victims and their families can receive offender status, provide input regarding the impact of the crime, and register to receive future notification of the status of their offender. Since inception of the program there have been seven Victim Visitors Days that have served 546 victims. Exit survey results with victims following their attendance at these events are overwhelmingly and unanimously positive. ALL rate their experience as excellent, saying their time was well spent, they gained knowledge of the parole process, and they would recommend this service to all crime victims. This outreach program brings services and resources to victims in a way that is unprecedented in the State of Georgia. Victim Visitor's Day serves to give crime victims valuable information, which results in power and courage to help restore lives. The senior management team has combined over 165 years in State Government: Walt Davis, Danny Hunter, Shalandra Robertson, Anthony "Tony" Mazza, James Rawls, Barbara Stayton, Scheree Lipscomb, and Rita Rocker. Leadership Awards Individual Leadership Danny Hunter State Board of Pardons and Paroles Danny Hunter is the Director of the Field Operations. In this capacity, he is responsible for managing the state parole officers who supervise Georgia's 21,000 parolees from 48 Georgia cities. Mr. Hunter's criminal justice career began in 1978 as a police officer. Over the last 27 years, he has distinguished himself through his work for the Georgia Parole Board as a Parole Officer, Chief Parole Officer and as a Regional Director. Mr. Hunter was nominated for his accomplished leadership in the development of practices in performance management and accountability. He has succeeded in creating, articulating and implementing a philosophy of performance management which identifies a single most important measure of parole supervision (successful parole completion) as the benchmark against which all parole officers and management staff are to gauge their performance. As a result, the parole completion rate since implementation of these practices in October 2005, has improved from 66% to 71% throughout the state, while the arrest rate of parolees has declined. This clearly demonstrates with measurable outcomes, that under Mr. Hunter's leadership, the Field Division has served to enhance the safety of our communities as parolees return home and lead crime free lives. Team Leadership Forest Products Utilization and Marketing Department Georgia Forestry Commission The Georgia Forestry Commission's Forest Utilization and Marketing Department provided the catalyst for the beginning of a new bioenergy industry in Georgia. They promoted Georgia's extraordinary forests as an opportunity for energy production, an environmental solution to greenhouse gas emissions, and a source of economic gain to investors and local communities. Bioenergy from sustainably grown forest biomass has moved from a vision to a reality, with expert guidance from the GFC leadership team of Devon Dartnell, Josh Love, Nathan McClure, Dru Preston, John Wells, and Risher Willard. These Professionals led the effort to bring Range Fuels, Fram Renewable Fuels, and Yellow Pine Energy to Georgia by providing analyses of Georgia's biomass availability and by facilitating relationships between new company representatives and existing Georgia companies. The Team also developed the Georgia Carbon Sequestration Registry, furthering the reality of Georgia's forest owners receiving additional income through carbon credit purchases for their growing forests. Results from GFC leadership include the creation of 466 new jobs, an economic impact of over $170 million, and a strengthened motivation to conserve Georgia's forests for the benefit of every Georgian, today and tomorrow. Community Service Awards Individual Community Service Cynthia Dorsey Edwards Department of Technical and Adult Education Inside and outside of DeKalb Technical College, Cynthia Dorsey Edwards is very involved in initiatives, programs, and organizations that contribute to improving the quality of life for members of the community. She and her husband founded the Edwards-Miller Foundation for Physical Disabilities, Inc., that provides scholarships for postsecondary education for individuals with physical and mental challenges and for enhancement training for teachers who work with them. Ms. Edwards is actively involved with the Foundation's students. Thus far, eight students have graduated college and have entered the workforce; one completed her Masters; one is completing her Ph.D. The Foundation's first awardee was visually impaired. She graduated with a Bachelors degree in May 2007, after losing most of her sight during her second year in college, dropping out of college to attend "Guide Dog School", and changing colleges four times until she found a program that fit her needs. Ms. Edwards stayed in contact with her and provided support during all of her challenging and celebratory times. The student finished college as an Honor Student with a major in Social Work and a minor in Education. Ms. Edwards also founded Time Out For US, a.k.a. T.O.F.U., a mentoring and support group for women, whose focus is to assist its members to successfully maneuver through the various stages of life. The group is comprised of women from all socio-economic levels - from age "20something" to "80something." As a group, in 2007, they participated in the United Way Shoebox Drive, giving toiletries to women in shelters. Team Community Service DDS Firefighter Relief Effort Department of Driver Services During 2007, fires destroyed thousands of acres in South Georgia. Department of Driver Services (DDS) employees from across the state gave of themselves to help emergency personnel who were risking their lives to stop the fires. Local DDS offices and headquarters set up and maintained collection sites to gather donated items from employees and customers. Several truckloads were delivered to firefighters at the staging area in Waycross. DDS team members personally loaded and delivered over 50 cases of water and Gatorade, over 4,500 various food, clothing and personal items, and monetary contributions. Employees also served as volunteer drivers to move emergency personnel and supplies from one staging area to another and to transport firefighters to and from the airport. Although not in immediate danger, the drivers did travel through areas that had active fires and severe smoke. Cynthia Russo, District Manager, and Kathryn Williams, Division Director, assisted in coordinating the effort and are representing the many DDS employees who were involved in the agency's statewide efforts. This effort demonstrates that DDS is an agency that is truly "WINNING," not just in our service to our internal and external customers but also in our service to the community. Safety Awards Individual Safety Ranger First Class Robert Timmerman Department of Natural Resources RFC Robert Timmerman is a seven-year employee of the Department of Natural Resources, Law Enforcement Section currently assigned as the Boating Safety Officer for Clarks Hill Lake. Clarks Hill Lake is one of the largest lakes in the Southeast with over 500,000 visitors annually. RFC Timmerman constantly strives to make Clarks Hill Lake a safer and more boater friendly lake. He conducted 23 boating safety programs, logged over 530 boating safety patrol hours, and meets quarterly with the Corps of Engineers, residents associations and marina owners. RFC Timmerman went above the call of duty by taking his idea and making it a reality. In 2005 RFC Timmerman began working with GA. D.O.T. to place signs that would name the creek or river on all bridges that cross the lake. This project was completed in July 2007 with 44 road signs enabling boaters to give an accurate location in their time of need. These calls range from life threatening emergencies to stranded boaters. As result of RFC Timmerman's idea, these signs expedite response time for on the water emergencies, achieving officer safety as well as public safety. RFC Timmerman is truly an asset to the department and the boating public. Team Safety Milledgeville Cad Weld Team Georgia Forestry Commission The Milledgeville Cad Weld Team restored communications, a vital safety tool in wildland firefighting, to six county units in two weeks during the Georgia Forestry Commission's Radio Optimization Project. Three county units had suffered communication losses due to lightning and the others needed updates to expand radio coverage. Funding was made available to repair and update, that's when the team swiftly and efficiently installed the necessary equipment. This team also visited neighboring districts in order to provide assistance with completing their Radio Optimization Projects. This dedicated team consists of two Forestry Commission employees: David Epps and Kevin Meeks. David Epps started his career at the Twiggs County Unit as a Ranger 1 in 1993. He was promoted to Chief Ranger in 1999 for Twiggs and Wilkinson County. In October 2007, he was promoted to the Milledgeville District Ranger position, overseeing fire control efforts for 13 counties. Kevin Meeks has been with GFC for a year and a half as a Ranger 1 at the Baldwin County Unit and also serves as a volunteer firefighter for Baldwin County. Thanks to these two firefighters the field can be confident that their radios will work while on the fireline. Heroism Awards Individual Heroism Ranger First Class Brian Adams Department of Natural Resources Ranger First Class Brian Adams is a ten-year employee with the Department of Natural Resources, Law Enforcement Section currently assigned to Glascock and Warren Counties. On January 29, 2007, RFC Brian Adams responded to a 911 call in Glascock County regarding a seven-year-old child who had fallen into a 30-40 ft abandoned well. Upon arrival RFC Adams found that both father and son were at the bottom of the abandoned well, struggling to stay afloat in the frigid water. Fearing hypothermia, RFC Adams realized he had to act immediately. RFC Adams found a garden hose nearby and lowered the hose into the well, enabling the father and son to keep their heads above water. Utilizing rope brought to scene from a local hardware store, RFC Adams, the Sheriff and his deputy, were able to hoist both victims to safety. Both father and son were treated for hypothermia and minor injuries. Due to the quick thinking and sheer determination of this officer, both victims are safely at home. This event serves as a reminder of the excellent work that RFC Brian Adams does on a daily basis for the citizens of the State of Georgia. Team Heroism Parole Board Fugitive Investigators State Board of Pardons & Paroles Parole Board employees Marshall Smith and Josh Thompson are assigned to the U.S. Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force Atlanta (USMS SERFTF). They are members of the Elite Task force that is comprised of local, state and federal partners. This highly trained and well equipped unit seeks out and arrests the most dangerous wanted persons in our community. During calendar year 2007 the USMS SERFTF arrested 514 of the "worst of the worst" offenders. Of these arrests, 60 were wanted for murder, 41 were wanted for sex crimes and 136 were wanted for assault and robbery. Investigators Smith and Thompson alone were involved in the apprehension of 227 fugitives during 2007. Marshall Lee Smith began his career as a Fugitive Investigator in December 2000, when assigned to the Metro Fugitive Squad and later transferred to USMS SERFTF after retiring as a Captain from the Rome PD. Josh Thompson joined the Parole Board in September 1999 as a Parole Officer. In 2004, he transferred to the USMS SERFTF. Daily, Fugitive Investigators Marshall Smith and Josh Thompson courageously put their lives on the line to apprehend those persons who consistently pose the greatest threat to our community. Humanitarian Awards Individual Humanitarian Sue Brison Department of Defense Mrs. Sue Brison joined the staff of the Fort Gordon Youth Challenge Academy (YCA) as a GED Teacher in September 2003, after a long career with the Richmond County and Burke County Boards of Education. She passed away in February 2008, and this award is accepted in her memory by the YCA staff. During her lifetime, Mrs. Brison volunteered countless hours preparing food and serving meals to injured soldiers and the homeless. She cared for underprivileged students, often dipping into her own pocket to provide items such as 200 coats and sweaters for middle-school aged children. She solicited and purchased toys and turkeys for needy families each holiday season, set up a Black History Program for the Augusta Chronicle, and went so far as to finance a college education for two YCA Ft. Gordon graduates while paying books, room & board for a third. Even when she was no longer able to work due to her illness, she tutored students from her bedside. Ms. Brison touched the hearts of many people and will never be forgotten. As she wished, students from the YCA program served as her pallbearers. Team Humanitarian Sureeta Goss & Vickie Sears Department of Human Resources, Office of Child Support Services Office of Child Support Services agents Sureeta Goss and Vicki Sears were nominated for this award due to their efforts on a recent case. The case involved a custodial parent and her 5 children (ages range from 1 to 8 years of age). The family had been evicted from their apartment, was living in the mother's car, and had no money for food. The custodial parent had been unsuccessful in finding any assistance and had not been able to locate a homeless shelter that would take her and her family. Agents Goss and Sears were determined to find the family a shelter that was capable of and willing to house them. It was now close of business, and both agents requested from management that they be able to continue their search on their own time to assist this mother and her five children with housing on this very cold night. Both agents continued to place calls to all of the homeless and women's shelters. Finally, after over an hour of placing calls, Ms. Sears was able to locate a center that was able to accommodate the mother and her 5 children that night. In the mean time, Ms. Goss was busy finding food and clothing assistance for the family. After diligently working to provide all the necessary basic needs such as shelter, clothing, and food for this family, agents Goss and Sears were able to contact the custodian with the information to keep her and her children safe in their time of need. Both agents looked upon this as "just doing what we are suppose to do", to assist whenever we see the necessity. Innovations/Suggestions Awards Individual Innovations/Suggestions Rufus Smith Georgia Department of Defense Mr. Rufus Smith joined the staff of the Fort Stewart Youth Challenge Academy (YCA) as a Counselor to the program's at-risk youth in February 2000. As a tenured counselor, he recognized that discipline, as well as promotions, special weekend passes, and other special rewards were frequently given out in a non-uniform and sometimes unfair manner. Mr. Smith developed a Merit System to improve the process for the students in his platoon. The Merit System allows YCA Ft. Stewart to administer awards and discipline in a more uniform way, while also enabling the Academy to more accurately identify and track the growth and success of cadets. Mr. Smith's system gives every student 800 merit points to begin. Students are taught and given the rules of the program, learning the specific violations that would result in points lost. Points can also be earned or won back through various positive actions and accomplishments. Once the system was implemented, 25% more cadets were recognized for positive achievements and 20% fewer cadets were disciplined or dismissed from the Academy. The success of this system was so significant that two other platoons voluntarily adopted the process, and it's being evaluated for mandated implementation throughout the Academy. Team Innovations/Suggestions DDS Driver Examiner Hiring Initiative Department of Driver Services An intra-agency Department of Driver Services (DDS) team worked to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the Driver Examiner 1 hiring process by reducing the recruitment time for the job from an average of 125 to 40 days from testing to date of hire. The team began by documenting and reviewing the process flow, from testing to hiring, for all internal and external stakeholders. The team determined that the best model would be to move from centralized interviewing and selection at headquarters to local testing, interviewing and selection at centers statewide. The new process offers better customer service to applicants and gives managers more active involvement in the hiring of people they will be required to manage. Standard operating procedures, testing processes, the interview process, the background process, the selection process, internal and external forms and the DDS intranet and internet were all revised. Many of the streamlined processes are being reviewed for the revision of the hiring process department-wide. Team members include management, program and administrative staff from Licensing & Records, Human Resources, Business Analysis and Investigative Services: Jackie Upchurch, CSLR Assistant; Kathryn Williams, Division Director; Cheryl Rogers, Center Manager; Johnnette Heard, HR Consultant; James Davis, Investigator; and Donna Garnto, Program Coordinator. Employee Suggestion Program Patrick Starnes Georgia Department of Revenue Patrick Starnes made a suggestion for cost savings in the renegotiation the agency's lease agreement. The lease rate was to increase from $21.87 to $25.36 per square foot with an option to buy out of the lease after five years. By renegotiating the lease, the agency reduced the rental cost of office space, a savings of $2,915,508.59 over a sixyear period, without a termination option. Sherrie Gabriel Georgia Forestry Commission Sherrie Gabriel is an Administrative Assistant with the Georgia Forestry Commission in Athens. She has been employed since 1978 and currently works in the Sustainable Community Forestry Program (SCFP). She provides administrative support to the SCFP team while working with the Tree City USA Program, Sustainable Community Forestry Grant recipients, and the National Arbor Day Poster Contest. Sherrie recognized that the Georgia Forestry Commission had many past due invoices for services provided to landowners. She made the following employee suggestion regarding collection of past due accounts. If the first invoice was not paid within 30 days, the landowner would be notified that the invoice would be turned over to the Magistrate Court for collection after 90 days. After implementation of this procedure, most delinquent landowners settled their accounts, resulting in substantial revenue that the Georgia Forestry Commission would otherwise have lost. Faithful Service Awards Marjorie Almand, DFCS/Department of Human Resources 40 years Representative Bennie Bridges Sr., State Legislator 40 years Willie Reynolds, Department of Education 40 years Mollie Walls, Department of Technical and Adult Education 40 years Commissioner Harold Linnenkohl (Retired), Department of Transportation 43 years Frank Ogletree, Insurance Commissioner's Office 45 years Nominees Individual Customer Service Winner: Dawn BassettGeorgia Bureau of Investigation Charles BaileyGeorgia Forestry Commission Katie ChristophersonGovernor's Office of Customer Service Kevin DuvallGeorgia World Congress Center Authority Felicia Faison-HolmesDepartment of Banking & Finance Robin GlassGeorgia Department of Natural Resources Gerald GrimesGeorgia Department of Corrections Bernetha J. HollingsworthAdministrative Office of the Courts James HunsingerGeorgia Department of Labor Pamela JohnsonGeorgia Department of Transportation Carol KilgoreDepartment of Technical & Adult Education Sonny ManaliliGeorgia State Financing & Investment Commission Roshelle McCraeDivision of Aging Services Virgil NaveGeorgia Department of Public Safety Keisha StanleyDepartment of Juvenile Justice Individual Community Service Winner: Cynthia D. EdwardsDepartment of Technical & Adult Education Jeffrey AlligoodDepartment of Juvenile Justice Ricky B. Bell, Jr.Georgia Department of Transportation Patricia BourkeGeorgia Department of Labor Vickie BusbyDepartment of Banking & Finance Elizabeth CheneyGeorgia Department of Natural Resources Byron HaireGeorgia Forestry Commission Robert HughesGeorgia Department of Defense Deborah KrotenbergState Board of Workers' Compensation Edd SandersGeorgia Department of Corrections Marpassa WillisNorth West Georgia Regional Hospital Individual Leadership Winner: Danny HunterState Board of Pardons & Paroles Debbie AlexanderMetro Regional Youth Detention Center Johnny R. EmmettGeorgia Department of Transportation Terri FisherGeorgia Bureau of Investigation Troy FloydGeorgia Forestry Commission Consuelo GoddenDepartment of Technical & Adult Education Kelly MoodyAdministrative Office of the Courts Kathy OdomGeorgia Department of Natural Resources Stephen T. SmithEast Central Regional Hospital Carol VeihmeyerGovernor's Office of Customer Service Gibb WalkerGeorgia Department of Defense Eugenia WashingtonGeorgia Department of Corrections Al WeaverDepartment of Labor Individual Humanitarian Winner: Sue BrisonGeorgia Department of Defense Kenneth O. BrownGeorgia Department of Transportation Vernon DavisDepartment of Technical & Adult Education Elaine DeCostanzoOffice of Planning and Budget Mike GalifianakisGeorgia State Financing & Investment Commission Shawn JordanGeorgia Department of Natural Resources Crystal MoonState Board of Pardons & Paroles Andrea ShoemakerDFCS State Adoption Unit Jane SimsDepartment of Revenue Margie D. SpearGeorgia Department of Corrections John WrightMetro Regional Youth Detention Center Individual Heroism Winner: Brian AdamsGeorgia Department of Natural Resources Rogelio BustamanteGeorgia World Congress Center Authority NancyAnne ConnerDepartment of Driver Services Darrell DanielsGeorgia Department of Corrections Agie GeorgeGeorgia Bureau of Investigation Joseph B. MarkhamDepartment of Technical and Adult Education David PeeblesDepartment of Juvenile Justice Individual Safety Winner: Robert TimmermanGeorgia Department of Natural Resources Bert FlewellenState Board of Pardons and Paroles Kevin MoseleyGeorgia Department of Transportation Kathleen OliverState Board of Workers' Compensation Individual Innovations/Suggestions Winner: Rufus SmithGeorgia Department of Defense Marty HicksGovernor's Office of Customer Service Marty MacDonaldMHDDAD-Region 2 Gary L. StricklandDepartment of Technical & Adult Education Charles BaileyGeorgia Forestry Commission Chris DorseyGeorgia Bureau of Investigation Carrie T. HamiltonMetro Regional Youth Detention Center Ernest KendricksGeorgia Department of Public Safety Team Customer Service Winner: Sate Board of Pardons and Paroles Victims Visitor's Day (Shalandra Robertson, Rita Rocker, Scheree Lipscomb, Walt Davis, Danny Hunter, James Rawls, Barb Stayton, Tony Mazza)State Board of Pardons and Paroles 1-800-Georgia Call Center Team Governor's Office of Customer Service MVD Title Processing Customer Service TeamDepartment of Revenue 165 Civil Engineer Squadron Grounds Maintenance TeamGeorgia Department of Defense Clayton TC Family Contact TeamGeorgia Department of Corrections Information Technology DepartmentDepartment of Technical and Adult Education DPS Public Information Media Services UnitGeorgia Department of Public Safety Altamaha WMA TeamGeorgia Department of Natural Resources WRD Game Management Gordon-Murray UnitGeorgia Forestry Commission OPB/SAO Budget/Accounting SystemsOffice of Planning and Budget/State Accounting Office DDS Customer Service Center #36 DouglasDepartment of Driver Services OHRMD Team assisting at Georgia Regional HospitalOHRMD Griffin PlantGeorgia Industries for the Blind Team Community Service Winner: DDS Firefighter Relief (Kathryn Williams and Cynthia Russo)Department of Driver Services Criminal Interdiction UnitGeorgia Department of Public Safety Upson County UnitGeorgia Forestry Commission Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run ParticipantsDepartment of Revenue Athens Technical College Economic Development/Work Ready TeamDepartment of Technical and Adult Education Cartersville Career Center Relay for Life TeamGeorgia Department of Labor Team Humanitarian Winner: Sureeta Goss and Vickie SearsOffice of Child Support Services David Posey and Ryan RalstonDepartment of Driver Services Michelle Stanley and Lawanda CarswellDepartment of Juvenile Justice District 6 Rose Demakos, CRCGeorgia Department of Labor, Vocational Rehabilitation Program Team Leadership Winner: Georgia Forestry Commission Forest Products Utilization and Marketing Department (Devon Dartnell, Josh Love, Nathan McClure, John Wells, Risher Willard)Georgia Forestry Commission Law Enforcement Command StaffGeorgia Department of Natural Resources Griffin Plant Events CommitteeGeorgia Industries for the Blind ATD Underage Alcohol Investigations GroupDepartment of Revenue Rivers State Prison Business OfficeGeorgia Department of Corrections Staff of Governor's Council on Developmental DisabilitiesGovernor's Council on Developmental Disabilities Governor's Office of Customer Service (team)Governor's Office of Customer Service SPA SCCP TeamState Personnel Administration Coosa Valley Tech I-CAN TeamDepartment of Technical and Adult Education DDS Customer Service Center #38 RomeDepartment of Driver Services Team Heroism Winner: Parole Board Fugitive Investigators (Marshall Smith and Josh Thompson)State Board of Pardons and Paroles Brunswick Relocation TeamDHR Office of Regulatory Services State of Georgia Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SOG SWAT)Georgia Department of Public Safety Team Safety Winner: Milledgeville Cad Weld Team (David Epps and Kevin Meeks)Georgia Forestry Commission Griffin PlantGeorgia Industries for the Blind Life Safety Code Surveyor/Safety Fire DivisionDHR Office of Regulatory Services State Board of Workers' Compensation Safety CommitteeState Board of Workers' Compensation Post 32 Athens "Big Hat Campaign"Georgia Department of Public Safety Team Innovations/Suggestions Winner: DDS Driver Examiner Hiring Initiative (Cheryl Rogers, Jackie Upchurch, Johnnette Heard, James Davis, Donna Garnto, Kathryn Williams)Department of Driver Services Georgia Forestry Commission's Cherokee/Pickens County UnitGeorgia Forestry Commission Godwin Akhirome and Kathi KriegerOffice of Financial Services Team CroninGeorgia Industries for the Blind Call Center Improvement Team Governor's Office of Customer Service Agency Coordinators Paige Jeter State Personnel Administration (Statewide Coordinator) Annie Hughley Georgia Department of Labor Barbara Wyche Secretary of State Bill Swaim Department of Community Affairs Bonita Streetman Office of State Administrative Hearings Carol Griffin State Board of Workers' Compensation Carol Webb Department of Banking and Finance Cathy Bexley Employees' Retirement System Clair Pate Georgia Department of Corrections Shelia Richardson State Personnel Administration Cornell Harvey Jekyll Island Authority Deborah Moore Department of Juvenile Justice Stephanie Bennett Georgia Bureau of Investigation Denora Young Governor's Office of Highway Safety Henry Johnson Department of Transportation Jerry Sterling Georgia World Congress Center Jesse Johnson State Board of Pardons and Paroles Johnnette Heard Department of Driver Services Judy Batchelor Georgia Forestry Commission Kay McCorkle Department of Early Care and Learning Kaye Adamson Georgia Emergency Management Agency Kevin Gecowets Office of Customer Service Linwood Swain Georgia Department of Revenue Toni Ector Georgia Technology Authority Margie Conley Public Service Commission Meg Ramsay Department of Audits and Accounts Michael Kendrick Georgia Administrative Office of the Courts Nancie Masters Phoenix Center Pat Longino Department of Agriculture Sinetra Gandy State Accounting Office Rosa Spencer Office of Planning and Budget Sonya Anderson Department of Defense Terry Carnes Department of Human Resources Tracy Bowers Department of Natural Resources Wanda RachelDepartment of Law Francina Beal Georgia Public Broadcasting Gwen Knight Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Gordy Wright Georgia State Patrol Cassaundra Scott Department of Community Health Sara Nerenbaum Department of Technical and Adult Education Commella Landis Department of Veterans Service Jamell Simon State Personnel Administration Print this page For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Spring Summit Georgia Leadership Institute Spring Summit "I am committed to developing the talent that is already in every level of state government and ensuring they explore and understand the elements of my vision and direction for the state." - Gov. Sonny Perdue Over 200 State agency heads, senior leaders, and Georgia Leadership Institute graduates participated in the Governor's Spring Leadership Forum "Training Your Team to Win the Big Game" - at the Georgia World Congress Center on May 13, 2008. These participants are directly involved in setting the strategic and operational direction of their organizations. Damon Evans, UGA Athletic Director, was the keynote speaker for the Spring Forum. During Governor Perdue's address to the participants, he encouraged them "to listen to the information being presented today not only to learn how Damon Evans established a record of success as athletic director at the University of Georgia, but even, better, how his strategies can be applied to developing a winning team of leaders in your organization for your own record of success." Mr. Evans emphasized that the true measure of success is being able to develop future leaders. He claims that "a true leader cannot achieve individual or organizational success without people and the main characteristic of leadership is being able to influence those people." He spoke about integrity, a clear and concise vision, and patience being key leadership attributes when taking on the challenge of developing winning teams. He said that too often, "people play not to lose, when they should play to win. A true leader goes the way, knows the way, but more importantly shows the way." Mr. Evans concluded by challenging the leaders to create a game plan and keep a scoreboard of successes and challenges, because when employees understand the game plan, they train harder. When they know the score, they play with greater intensity. The Georgia Leadership Institute was established by the State Personnel Administration, in collaboration with the Commission for a New Georgia. The goal of the Institute is to establish a common leadership framework for Georgia State government language, concepts, and approaches that produce leaders and employees who are principle-centered, customer-focused, and results-driven. The New Georgia Forums provide opportunities for participants to interact and learn best practices, leading edge thinking, and powerful new tools of leadership and organizational development. For more information on the Georgia Leadership Institute, click here http://www.spa.ga. gov/gli/flash/v3/index.htm. Print this page For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement New PeopleSoft ePeformance System Get ready for the PeopleSoft ePerformance System Components of the new process r Increased involvement for both manager and employee during the entire process, from developing the performance plan to evaluating and identifying areas for future growth r Collaborative planning makes use of employee input, planning, and selfevaluation. r Supporting PeopleSoft technology with easy access and use for managers and employees is available for use by multiple users and integrated with other HR functions. r The new system is based upon results, goals, and competencies r Measurable criteria, which should lead to improved accuracy and fairness r Aligns employee goals with agency goals r Enhanced accuracy, consistency, and timeliness of reviews r Ongoing coaching by manager, which accommodates employee input r Enables feedback on an interim basis Print this page For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Redesign of the State's Job Class Update On July 1, 2008, the new job titles will be effective. These job titles were developed by agency HR representatives, managers, and job incumbents through over 40 focus group sessions statewide. By collapsing similar jobs we have reduced the number of jobs titles from 3500 to approximately 750. Even though the new job titles will be more generic, agencies will still have the ability to maintain "working or business" titles that reflect work done at an agency/department position level. What Will Not Change q No pay grade change q No job code change q No change in promotional opportunities For more information contact your agency HR office. Print this page For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement Year-Round Open Enrollment This summer, the State of Georgia Flexible Benefits Program will roll out the YearRound Enrollment for new employees. These employees will make their benefit selections electronically by accessing the Team Georgia Connection (TGC) web site. The implementation of the Year-Round Enrollment will occur in two phases. During Phase One, the following agencies will begin using the TGC web site for employees hired on or after July 15, 2008: q PeopleSoft agencies, q Fayette, DeKalb, & Walton County Boards of Education, q Department of Family and Children Services, q Community Service Boards, and q Public Health Departments. The remaining agencies will be in Phase Two, beginning with new employees hired on or after August 15, 2008. The TGC Web site will be the primary location for new hire and annual online open enrollment, customer service, benefit provider links, as well as other benefit communications for the Flexible Benefits Program. Print this page For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions Government Spotlight Money Matters Vocabulary Retirees Technology Procurement Workforce Tips Wellness Lets Hear It Helping Others Thursday, June 12, 2008 Search: Georgia Statement State Health Benefits Plan BlueCross/Blue Shield & Kaiser dropped from SHBP Enrollment Options Effective January 1, 2009, the BlueCross BlueShield/Lumenos options will no longer be offered to employees. However, according to a DCH claims analysis, over 97% of the providers utilized by BlueCross BlueShield members also participate in either the CIGNA or United Healthcare networks. Kaiser Permanente, also a current health care provider provides a network primarily in metro areas of the state. However, due to the fact that most Kaiser physicians are employed by Kaiser Permanente and will not be in the CIGNA or United Healthcare networks, SHBP is extending the Kaiser contract for an additional year through 2009. Only members currently enrolled in Kaiser in 2008 will be able to select Kaiser during the Open Enrollment for the 2009 plan year. This will allow members an additional year to make the transition from Kaiser physicians to new physicians. This year's Open Enrollment dates are October 10 through November 10, 2008. Beginning January 1, 2009, employees in most parts of the state will have the choice between both CIGNA and United Healthcare who will each offer the following options: Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA), High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), and Medicare Advantage Private Fee for Service. It is very important that employees carefully review the 2009 Active Decision Guide and plan to attend a webinar or meeting prior to making their election at www. oe2009ga.gov. An employee whose health option is terminating and fails to go online to select a new health option will automatically be enrolled in the United Healthcare HRA option effective January 1, 2009 (with surcharges) . Print this page For questions or comments concerning Georgia Statement online, please contact: carletta.henderson@spa.ga.gov Article submissions for the next issue should be sent to: Georgia Statement Submissions