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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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State launches new and much-improved Careers Recruitment Website 
 
Subscribe to The Georgia Statement today!!! 
 
Ten years ago the state of Georgia launched www.thejobsite. org, an online center for applicants searching for state jobs and recruiters looking for qualified applicants. In 1998, surveys revealed that a large majority of internet users did not use the internet for seeking out job opportunities. Today, the internet is a vastly different landscape. With internet access now available to nearly every Georgian, recruiters and applicants view the World Wide Web as virtually inseparable from the hiring and applying process. 
 
On July 1, 2008 the State Personnel Administration bid farewell to the Job Site with the simultaneous launch of the new recruitment website, www.careers.ga.gov . More than just a website redesign, careers.ga.gov is viewed by many as yet another stepping stone in Georgia's journey to becoming the Best Managed State in the nation. As more and more young job seekers turn to the internet, maintaining an updated, userfriendly employment website is becoming essential to attracting top talent-which is, in turn, essential for effective management. 
 
Careers.ga.gov is built upon the success of the Job Site, but brings with it an array of new features for the recruiter and applicant alike: 
 
Benefits for Applicants 
 
 More up-to-date, user-friendly interface  Comprehensive, one-stop location not only for job postings, but also benefits and salary information, testimonials, information about life in Georgia, and many other useful links.  Career information center details the application process, offers answers to frequently asked questions, provides information regarding licenses and certifications, gives directions to each agency, and lists schedules for testing and evaluation services  Jobs listed by location, job family, agency, or salary range makes searching easier by narrowing the field  "Hot Jobs" feature lists all job listings with approaching closing dates  Know your application status by receiving e-mail updates throughout the process  New feature to allow rsums to be uploaded as Microsoft Word documents  User ID, password, and personal information will remain unchanged 
 
Benefits for Recruiters 
 
 Applicant self-assessment test will lead to smaller, more manageable, and more qualified applicant pools  Database of select rsums will allow recruiters to find applicants who meet their agency-specific qualifications  Agencies with current recruitment sites can link to the main careers website to ensure that no job vacancies go unnoticed by potential employees  Free advertising for agencies, with over 22,000 job-seekers regularly receiving job notifications in their inbox  Broadened statewide job descriptions can be used as templates for new postings 
 
"Each member of Team Georgia plays a vital role that leads to our success in delivering results for Georgians. If you have the skills, the commitment and desire to make a difference by delivering services that matter most to Georgians, then we invite you to explore career opportunities available with the state of Georgia." 
 
New Pension Plan for State Employees 
 
By Shelia Jenkins, Senior Director of ERS Policy Services 
 
It's new for 2009 and the beginning of an exciting journey for future state of Georgia employees. New employees hired on and after January 1, 2009 will become the first Employees' Retirement System (ERS) members of the Georgia State Employees Pension and Savings Plan (GSEPS), a retirement plan providing a traditional defined benefit plan and defined contribution plan combination. 
 
Act No. 757 (SB 328), Georgia Laws 2008, creates the "Georgia State Employees' Pension and Savings Plan" (GSEPS), which provides a defined benefit plan (DBP) and 401(k) plan for new hires on and after January 1, 2009 and an opt-in to those employees in the membership of ERS on December 31, 2008. The ERS Board of Trustees will have the responsibility of administering the pension and savings plans. 
 
Compare the DBP plans of ERS: 
 
Old Plan New Plan GSEPS 
 
07-1982 On and 
 
pre-July thru 12- after 01- 
 
1982 2008 
 
2009 
 
Service Retirement 
 
10 yrs service, age 60 
 
Yes 
 
Yes 
 
Yes 
 
30 yrs service regardless of age 
 
Yes 
 
Yes 
 
Yes 
 
25 yrs service, 7% reduction 
 
Yes 
 
Yes 
 
Yes 
 
per yr <30 svc or <age 60 
 
34 yr projected to age 65 
 
Yes 
 
No 
 
No 
 
Formula salary 24 high consecutive calendar months 
 
Yes* 
 
Yes 
 
Yes 
 
Employer "pickup" added to salary 
 
Yes 
 
No 
 
No 
 
Factor 
 
2% to 
 
2.2% 
 
2% 
 
1% 
 
Disability/Death in Service Retirement 
 
13 yrs 4 mos., 75% projected to age 60 
 
Yes* 
 
Yes* 
 
No 
 
15 yrs service., no projection 
 
No 
 
No 
 
Yes 
 
18 yrs 1 mo., projected to age 60 
 
Yes* 
 
Yes* 
 
No 
 
22 yrs 10 mos., 75% projected to age 65 
 
Yes* 
 
Yes* 
 
No 
 
27 yrs 7 mos., projected to age 65 
 
Yes* 
 
Yes* 
 
No 
 
Contributions 
 
Employee 
 
1.25% 1.25% 1.25% 
 
Employee GTLI 
 
0.25% 0.25% None 
 
Employer-paid employee cont (Pickup) 
 
4.75% $7 0.00% 0.00% 
 
Employer-paid employee GTLI (Pickup) 
 
0.25% 0.00% 0.00% 
 
Employer cont 
 
5.66% 10.41% 
 
** 
 
GTLI 
 
Yes 
 
Yes 
 
No 
 
** To be determined by actuary 
 
For more information related to the GSEPS, please visit our web site at www.ersga.org. 
ERS offers statewide retirement and financial planning seminars, which encompass both Peach State Reserves (PSR) and the ERS pension plans. These seminars can help state employees better understand how to create a solid foundation for their financial future. 
Preparing for retirement is an extremely important life goal, one that many people find confusing and intimidating. We are working to improve this by making helpful information more available, including personal account access, education and training, assistance and advice. We look forward to finding more ways of improving our service to employees and retirees of the state of Georgia, while continuing to perform our fiduciary responsibilities in managing your retirement plans now and in the future. 
Communication 
 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 The Office of the Governor 
 
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Meet The Chiefs 
 
An inside perspective 
 
On any given day, Georgia's news outlets are filled with high-profile stories generated by the Gold Dome's usual power players. Most people can readily name the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Speaker, but few people know much about the state's Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) and what they do. 
 
Establishment of CFO and COO positions by Governor Perdue in 2003 is a first for Georgia. This organizational structure is common in private industry, but unique to state government. What was his objective? In order to make his vision of a New Georgia a reality, the Governor recognized he needed an executive senior management team, "chiefs" if you will, dedicated and focused on the daily operations of state government. 
In a private organization, a CFO is traditionally charged with management of the financial operations of the enterprise and maintaining the financial solvency of the business. Similarly, a COO is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations and service delivery of the enterprise while providing feedback to the chief executive. While private and public sectors are two very different species, Governor Perdue--a life-long businessman--saw no reason why some private industry best practices couldn't be integrated into state government. 
Among their many tasks, Georgia's CFO and COO are responsible for implementing findings of the Commission for a New Georgia task forces, ensuring the state's accounting, budgeting, and purchasing software systems are updated and provide associates with the tools they need to efficiently complete their job responsibilities, focusing on process improvement and accountability in all departments of state government, management of complex inter-departmental projects, implementation of a major customer service initiative, enterprise strategic planning, etc. 
In the past, state departments typically took a "silo" approach to their work. There was little emphasis on enterprise management and teamwork across departmental lines. Governor Perdue instituted an organizational structure that fosters collaborative agency interactions, provides opportunities for agency heads to meet and discuss common issues, and has updated/improved decades old financial/ personnel management practices. Now agency heads have a direct link to the Governor's Office and a streamlined process for getting business completed through the CFO and COO. 
So what does this really mean? For most Georgians, this means faster, friendlier, and easier delivery of services, like short lines at driver's license locations. For state employees, this translates into a more modernized workplace that includes financial rewards for exemplary service...resulting in a more productive workforce for Georgia's nine million citizens. 
 
Thomas D. "Tommy" Hills 
Tommy Hills was appointed by Governor Sonny Perdue as the state's Chief Financial Officer in June of 2003. In this capacity Hills oversees the operations of 24 state finance agencies and authorities and coordinates between these organizations and the Governor. Among these agencies are the Department of Revenue, Office of Treasury & Fiscal Services, the state's budget and accounting offices, large retirement systems, State Property Office, the Department of Banking & Finance and the state's bond finance commission. 
From 1965-2001, Hills had a long and distinguished career with the First National Bank of Atlanta and Wachovia Bank, N. A., gaining experience in general management, wealth management, corporate banking, retail banking, commercial real estate and community and governmental affairs. In his last position at Wachovia, Hills served as the bank's Atlanta City President. 
Hills is a graduate of Emory University's undergraduate and law schools and has recently been awarded a Masters of Arts in southern history from Georgia State University. He and his wife Wally have two daughters and five grandchildren. 
 
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James R. "Jim" Lientz, Jr. 
Jim Lientz retired in 2000 as President of the Mid-South Division of Bank of America. Following his retirement he became a partner and Chairman of the TriVeritas Group, a financial services firm he helped co-found. He served as Chairman of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce in 1998 and as Chair of the Metropolitan Atlanta Chamber in 2000. In 1999, Lientz served as Chair of the Woodruff Arts Center Corporate Campaign. 
Currently, Lientz is the state of Georgia's first Chief Operating Officer. Governor Sonny Perdue appointed him to this position in January 2003. In this role, he has responsibility for all operating units of Georgia state government. He received his undergraduate degree from Georgia Institute of Technology, and obtained his master's degree from Georgia State University. He also completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School. He and his wife Peggy have three daughters and seven grandchildren. 
 
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 
 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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Money Matters 
Most of us feel stressed when we have financial difficulties. However, some of us may not be aware of how much our stress negatively impacts our health. Earlier this year, the Associated Press and America Online conducted a survey to measure how debt affects people's health. Below are some of the survey findings comparing people with high financial debt with those who have low financial debt. In each area of physical problems listed, people with high stress due to debt, were impacted more negatively than people with low debt stress. 
 
Physical Problems 
 
People with High Debt People with Low Debt 
 
Stress 
 
Stress 
 
Muscle tension/back pain Migraines/other headaches Insomnia/other sleep problems High Blood Pressure/ Hypertension Severe anxiety Ulcers/other stomach problems Severe Depression 
 
51% 44% 39% 33% 
29% 27% 23% 
 
31% 15% 17% 26% 
4% 8% 4% 
 
How do we help lessen our stress regarding finances? With the escalating rise in fuel costs, consumers, who have a choice, are parking their gas-guzzling vehicles and driving fuel efficient vehicles. Some have even opted for motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles. Many consumers are beginning to focus on buying what is necessary rather than buying what they want. Economic trends are showing that consumers are purchasing more at discount stores and due to soaring gas prices are using stores that are close to home. The high costs of fresh foods are sending people to the canned and frozen foods aisles. The Food Marketing Institute reports that 83% of consumers are eating home cooked meals at least three times a week. The Information Resources Inc. (IRI) found in a survey that 55% of respondents indicated that they were buying smaller quantities of their favorite treats and 66% were cutting back on non essential groceries. Also noted in the survey results, one-third of the respondents indicated that they will buy fewer healthy products due to the high costs. Forty-six of these respondents had salaries of $35,000 or less. (MarketWatch) 
Things to consider to help improve your financial situation are: 
s Develop a budget. This is the first step in taking control of your finances. By assessing your financial situation through the budget process, you can prevent unnecessary spending. Begin by listing your income from all sources. Then list your regular monthly expenses, such as car payments, rent, and mortgage payments. After seeing these fixed expenses, list "all" your expenses that vary, such as eating out, going to the movies, playing golf, etc. To make ends meet each month for the necessary basic needs, you will want to prioritize these expenses. 
s Communicate with your creditors. The worst thing to do is to wait until your account has been turned over to a collection agency. This greatly limits your options. If you are having difficulty paying a creditor, contact the creditor and explain your situation. Then ask them if they can work out a modified payment that will reduce your payments. 
Consider Credit Counseling. If you do not feel disciplined to work out a budget and follow it or if you cannot work out a modified payment plan with your creditor, consider contacting a credit counselor. When choosing a creditor counselor, consider their fees, even if it is with a non profit organization. Make sure you work with a legitimate counselor. Your family, friends, and financial institution may be good sources for a referral. (Federal Trade Commission Facts for Consumers) 
"The greatest wealth is health 
Virgil (BC 70-19), Roman Poet 
 
Money Matters June 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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Vocabulary 
Test your Vocabulary. Definitions selected from Dictionary. com 
Vocabulary Quiz 
 
1. An unfounded, false, or fabricated report or story. A. Dilatory B. Canard C. Nimiety D. Segue E. Pusillanimous 
2. Marked by procrastination or delay. A. Canard B. Nimiety C. Dilatory D. Pusillanimous E. Segue 
3. A state or fit of intense indignation. A. Segue B. Dudgeon C. Inveterate D. Dilatory E. Canard 
4. Lacking in harmony, compatibility, or appropriateness. 
A. Dilatory B. Inveterate C. Canard D. Incongruous E. Segue 
5. Firmly established by long persistence. 
A. Sedulous B. Pusillanimous C. Nimiety D. Inveterate E. Dilatory 
6. Having great diversity or variety. 
A. Canard B. Incongruous C. Dudgeon D. Multifarious E. Sedulous 
7. The state of being too much; excess. A. Dilatory B. Inveterate C. Incongruous D. Nimiety E. Segue 
8. Diligent in application or pursuit. A. Inveterate B. Dudgeon C. Dilatory D. Sedulous E. Segue 
9. To proceed without interruption; to make a smooth transition. A. Dudgeon B. Pusillanimous C. Segue D. Canard E. Multifarious 
10. Lacking in courage and resolution. A. Nimiety B. Incongruous C. Dilatory D. Pusillanimous E. Multifarious 
Get score 
 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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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 
 
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Includes 
 
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Years of Service Includes 
 
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Results per Page: 
 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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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 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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Procurement 
Changes to Purchasing Card Program on the Horizon 
You may recall the audit report issued in 2007 by the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts on its review of the statewide purchasing card program. The report resulted from collaboration with the Department of Administrative Services, whose State Purchasing Division (SPD) is responsible for the statewide management of the card program, and all of the agencies, colleges, universities, and technical schools who use the program. As a result of that audit, much needed attention has been brought to bear on the purchasing card program. 
This is not to say that some organizations were not managing the program effectively. Many organizations were monitoring their programs to ensure compliance with procurement laws, State and internal policies, and industry "best practices". However, other organizations had become complacent and were not monitoring and auditing the program the way it should have been. This is changing very quickly. 
Even before the report became public in October 2007, SPD had taken steps to begin a complete overhaul of the program. A State Purchasing Card Program manager began work in May 2007 to bring policies and procedures up to date and to promote responsible use of the purchasing card as an effective method of payment. A full-time auditor began work in August 2007 to develop a statewide audit program. Both positions began developing training classes to roll out to card program administrators and cardholders on a statewide basis. And, when the audit report finally became public, SPD was ready with a new, comprehensive policy that addressed all of the issues raised in the report. The new State Purchasing Card Policy, issued in November 2007 and effective January 16, 2008, replaced the old "Contract Guide" in place since July 2005. 
During the most recent session, the Legislature took up the question of how to address abuses of the purchasing card that were identified in the audit report. The result was House Bill (HB) 1113, passed by both the House and the Senate on April 4, 2008, and signed into law by Governor Sonny Perdue on May 14, 2008. This bill, which becomes effective July 1, 2008, revised Section 50-5-80 of the Official Code of Georgia, Annotated (O.C.G.A.) and created Section 50-5-83. Section 50-5-80 now imposes strict penalties on any cardholder and his/her supervisor for intentional misuse or fraudulent use of the purchasing card, or any other purchasing method used to commit fraud against the state, including purchase orders, cash advances, expense reports, fuel cards, etc Section 50-5-83 codifies many of the tighter restrictions State Purchasing Division had already put into the State Purchasing Card Policy in January 2008. 
Stricter Penalties for Abuse of the Card 
Under the new legislation, any cardholder who uses the card for personal gain with an aggregate value of $500 or more is guilty of a felony, punishable by one to 20 years in prison. The cardholder is also subject to a minimum fine of $50,000. Personal use of the card with an aggregate value of less than $500 remains a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in prison and a fine of not more than $5,000. In addition, the law imposes the same penalties on any supervisor who knowingly approves fraudulent transactions for payment. 
Changes to the State Purchasing Card Policy 
Even before the new legislation was officially passed, State Purchasing Division began revising the State Purchasing Card Policy to incorporate the provisions of the law. In addition to the new requirements as a result of HB 1113, the revised policy will clarify and expand the requirements of the previous policy. The new policy is scheduled to be released no later than July 1, 2008. All State employees, especially those involved with the purchasing card program, should obtain a copy of the policy as soon as the official announcement of its publication is sent out since many sections have been enhanced. Highlights of the new policy are: 
 
q The "Local Program Roles and Responsibilities" section clarifies responsibilities for Card Program Administrators, Cardholders, and Supervisors/Approving Officials. 
q The "Use of the Card" section: 
r Revises the list of Allowable Purchases to address requirements for purchases over $5,000. 
r Addresses the unique needs of colleges, universities, and technical schools for the purchase of otherwise prohibited items when these items are essential to the mission of the school. 
s Provides guidance on use of the card in declared emergencies or natural disasters and use of the card for Sole Source or Sole Brand purchases. Documentation must meet the requirements contained in the Georgia Procurement Manual for these types of purchases. 
s Addresses cardholder background checks as required by HB 1113. Any employee with a history of misdemeanors or felonies related to financial wrongdoing is not eligible for a purchasing card. The policy provides guidance on how this is to be done for current cardholders. 
s Specifies the conditions under which purchases of $5,000 or more can be made with the card. Purchases of $5,000 or more must follow all procurement guidelines contained in the Georgia Procurement Manual. 
q The "Program Compliance" section: q  Clarifies cardholder spending limits and the circumstances under 
which waivers can be granted. q  Provides that cards can only be issued to full-time State employees 
and not to departments/work units, temporary employees, or employees of foundations associated with an agency, college, university, or technical school. q The "Legal Issues" section: 
 
State of Georgia Travel Card Program 
HB 1113 also affected the State Travel Card program. The law now imposes the same penalties for misuse of travel advances or submission of fraudulent requests for reimbursement of travel expenses as with the purchasing card. 
The changes resulted in a re-launch of the program effective June 1, 2008. Employees holding American Express travel cards issued under the program were required to obtain updated supervisory approval to have the card. Cardholders were also required to sign a new cardholder agreement indicating their understanding of appropriate use of the card, noting in particular, that personal purchases with the travel card are strictly prohibited. All unnecessary travel cards were terminated. The new State Travel Card Policy is available on the State Purchasing Division web site at www. statepurchasing.doas.ga.gov 
 
Communication 
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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 
 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
Workforce Tips 
 
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For Employees: 
Working Well With Others 
As we watch children interact, we have plenty opinions about how they can get along better. We worry how they will be as adults, if they cannot play and interact well with their peers. 
In the workforce, no matter how educated, trained, or knowledgeable a colleague is, if he cannot work well with others, the organization is affected negatively. Positive relationships with colleagues promote work satisfaction and success. 
Susan M Heathfield at About.com identifies seven ways you can play well with others at work: 
 
q Bring ideas and solutions for problems to meetings. Some employees spend all their time identifying problems, but do not attempt to provide solutions. Sharing thoughtful solutions will earn you respect. 
q Do not play the blame game. Pointing the finger at someone regarding a problem will alienate you from your colleagues. Yes, it is important to identify what was involved in a problem, but publically blaming someone will not earn you friends. 
q Your verbal and nonverbal communication is important. Talking down to another person, using sarcasm, or generally being disrespectful does not earn you respect and usually others hear about it. 
q Never blind side a coworker, boss, or reporting staff person. If a coworker becomes aware of a problem in a staff meeting or from an email sent to his supervisor, you have blind sided a coworker. Always show courtesy by discussing the situation with your coworker first. If you ambush your coworkers, you will not be respected. 
q Keep your commitments. Your failure to meet a deadline may impact the work of others. Always strive to keep commitments. If there is a good reason why you cannot, make sure you tell the affected colleague why. Negotiate a new date and honor the new deadline. 
q Share credit for ideas and contributions. Why are you taking all the credit when others helped you to succeed? By always giving credit where credit is due, colleagues will enjoy working with you and will continue sharing ideas and providing assistance. 
q Help other employees find their greatness. You do not have to be a supervisor to encourage your colleagues and recognize their talents and skills. Do not hesitate to compliment and acknowledge your coworkers' contributions to the organization. 
 
If you regularly do these seven actions, you will earn respect, develop positive work relationships, and even experience fun. 
For Managers: 
"We and "Me" Messages 
When changes occur, managers usually communicate the "We" message very well to their employees. Sometimes, though, the "Me" messages are not clear or are left out. Without the "Me" messages, employees may have a difficult time embracing change. Employees want to know how change will impact them personally, such as: 
 
q How will a change be integrated and how does it affect me directly? q Which rules and policies will remain the same and which will be 
different? What are the reasons? q What is expected of me after the change takes effect? q Will expectations about my performance change? 
 
To foster their sense of dedication, employees need to understand how their jobs impact the overall performance of their organization. By communicating how a change is relevant to employees individually, employees may better embrace change. 
Good communication builds trust. 
Judy McLeish 
 
Communication 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
Wellness 
Wellness Wellness (June) 
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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 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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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 
SIGH Chocolate I. Q. Declining Revenues Agriculture SCCP News... 
Redesign of the State's Job Class WorkAway Year-Round Open Enrollment Declining Revenues Personnel Board Policies 
 
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Welcome to ERS 
The mission of ERS is to be the guardian of the retirement systems it administers for the ultimate benefit of the members, retirees and beneficiaries of those systems. This mission is accomplished through ERS' core responsibilities which include pension administration; the collection, reconciliation and disbursement of contributions for the welfare of the members, retirees and beneficiaries of the plans; and the sound and secure investment of the retirement funds. For more information on ERS' mission statement, click here. 
If you are a member of the Teachers Retirement System, click here. For links to other useful sites, click here. 
 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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SIGH 
Serve in Good Health 
In 2007, Ryan Momberger, a new employee for the State Accounting Office, began a grassroots effort to have a workout gym and minute clinic style check-up facility available to state employees in the James H. Sloppy Floyd "Twin Tower" Building on Capitol Hill. Momberger may have tapped into something since more than 165 state employees at the Twin Towers have registered to support the idea. Momberger feels "Serve in Good Health" (SIGH) could be beneficial to both the state of Georgia and state employees as a preventive measure to help employees stay active while promoting healthier lifestyles and health education. 
 
The idea of promoting exercise and health while at work is not a new one in state government. In 2005, Governor Sonny Perdue kicked off the Live Healthy Georgia Initiative where he encouraged state employees to get involved by sponsoring a kick off at the State Capitol. Governor Perdue's administration has promoted a healthy Georgia as one of its priorities in becoming the best managed state in the nation. State entities such as the Department of Community Health's Commission on Men's Health, Department of Women's Health and the Department of Human Resources Division of Public Health all have mission statements and goals that speak to preventative health measures and partnering with others who have similar objectives. Just this year, Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine held a mile walk around the Twin Towers to encourage employees to walk regularly. 
 
According to the National Coalition on Health Care, employer-based health insurance premiums have risen four times faster than wages over the last seven years and medical spending is expected to account for 20 percent of the entire national gross domestic product (GDP) by 2015. These skyrocketing costs can largely be attributed to preventive diseases caused by unhealthy lifestyle choices such as smoking, bad diets, obesity, and inactivity. More than ever, employees are realizing that unhealthy living equals fewer dollars on payday. 
 
Workplace wellness programs have taken root in the private sector as an attractive benefit option in addition to compensation. In fact, SIGH founder Ryan Momberger, who has worked for several private organizations, was surprised to learn that no such health facility existed in the Twin Towers. Many companies have seen these programs virtually pay for themselves as they lead to fewer sick days taken and fewer health insurance and worker's comp claims made. 
 
In addition to reducing health-related costs, workplace wellness programs have been shown to reduce absenteeism and increase morale. Also, as the state of Georgia faces a wave of baby boomer retirements, a workplace wellness program can help attract effective and productive young employees to take their place. 
 
For more information on Serve In Good Health (SIGH) or to register, visit http:// ryanpm.wiki.zoho.com/SIGH.html 
 
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Chocolate I. Q. 
What's your Chocolate I. Q.? 
 
Search: Georgia Statement 
 
1. When was the first book on chocolate published? 
 
q 1550 q b. q c. 
 
1609 1705 
 
2. The Baby Ruth candy bar was named for: 
 
q President Grover Cleveland's youngest daughter 
 
q b. 
 
Rebecca Ruth 
 
q c. 
 
Babe Ruth 
 
3. How many chocolate chips does the Nestle company produce per day? 
 
q 100 million 
 
q b. 
 
250 million 
 
q c. 
 
500 million 
 
4. How many calories are in a Hershey's Kiss? 
 
q 25 calories 
 
q b. 
 
50 calories 
 
q c. 
 
13 calories 
 
5. The number one selling candy bar in the United States is: 
 
q Baby Ruth 
 
q b. 
 
Almond Joy 
 
q c. 
 
Snickers 
 
6. Chrysanthemums, Clark Bar, Sweet Peas, Almond Joy, Eatmores, Whatchamacallit, Ostrich Egg, and Charleston Chew. How many of these are actually candy bar names? 
all 
 
q none q three 
 
7. Chocolate causes acne and tooth decay. 
 
q 
 
false 
 
q 
 
true 
 
q The world's largest producer of raw cocoa beans for commercial 
 
use is: 
 
q Columbia 
 
q b. 
 
Ghana 
 
q Linneaus called cocoa "theobroma" which is Greek for: 
 
q Brown substance that tastes good 
 
q b. 
 
Food of the Gods 
 
q c. 
 
Wonderful food 
 
q The U.S. produces more chocolate than any other country. 
 
Which country's population consumes the most 
 
chocolate? 
 
q Switzerland 
 
q b. 
 
Austria 
 
q c. 
 
France 
 
Information from the National Agricultural Library SCORES 10-12 Correct Chocolate Genius 
8-10 Correct  Chocolate Lover 6-10 Correct  Good Try 
q Correct - Need to study 
 
Answers: 1b, 2a, 3b, 4a, 5c, 6a, 7a, 8b, 9b, 10a 
 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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Declining Revenues 
Agencies instructed to "tighten belts" in uncertain times 
 
It's a rainy day in Georgia. With revenue collections coming in at an ever-slowing pace, the potential need to tap into the state's $1.5 billion "rainy day fund" is becoming increasingly apparent. 
Recently released year-to-date revenue figures show a tenth of a percent decline in total collections from FY07 to FY08 compared with a 7.6 percent increase between FY06 and FY07. 
While the emergency fund--amassed during brighter economic times--will more than cover the expected half billion dollar shortfall if revenues continue to flat-line, the governor is also asking individual agencies to pitch in and trim the fat. 
Department heads have been asked to submit plans to cut spending in non-vital areas by three to four percent over the next two fiscal years beginning July 1, 2008--the start of FY09. Following a practice used during the recession earlier this decade, agencies are required to build their budgets from the ground up, rather than using the previous year as a baseline for increases. This means conscientious project and priority management is key for all state agencies and their employees. "The goal is for agencies to suggest cuts that would have the least direct impact on Georgians," said a spokesman for Perdue. The governor has also urged agencies to limit employee travel and restrict hiring to only essential positions. 
At present, this will not affect the January 2009 state employee pay increases that were approved in the FY09 budget. "Of course, final decisions on spending and future pay raises will be included in my budget recommendations for Amended FY09 and FY10 that I will present to the General Assembly in January," said Governor Perdue, indicating that by January we should be able to predict whether the economy would continue to soften or begin a rebound. 
According to the National Association of State Budget Officers (NASBO) twenty states have reported lower than expected revenue figures compared to eight states in FY07. Georgia is one of fifteen states with a total year-end balance (a combination of ending balances and rainy day funds) of more than 10% of total expenditures, indicating a healthy cushion to soften a fiscal blow should the negative trends continue. 
Governor Perdue is no stranger to economic rainy days. When he took office in 2003 the state was experiencing the pinch of a national recession, declining revenues, and a $620 million dollar budget shortfall. 
 
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Tuesday, July 15, 2008 
 
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Agriculture 
Georgia country-region grown tomatoes still safe 
 
Georgia grown tomatoes are still safe says Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tommy Irvin. 
"Georgia grown tomatoes remain on the safe list of tomatoes compiled by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)," said Commissioner Irvin. 
"News of seven people in Georgia who got sick from eating contaminated tomatoes should not confuse anyone about the safety of the tomatoes grown here. No tomatoes grown in Georgia have been linked to the outbreak of salmonella-related illnesses," said Irvin. 
Although some food retailers have pulled all tomatoes from their shelves and menus, those purchasing Georgia grown tomatoes do not need to worry. Georgia grown tomatoes are not on the FDA's list of possible sources of salmonella contamination. 
Consumers should check with their local grocers and restaurants as to where the tomatoes for sale were grown. Produce can also be purchased directly from farmers and farmer's markets. 
"I encourage everyone to buy their tomatoes from Georgia growers," said Commissioner Irvin. "Buying locally grown produce is the best way to ensure quality as well as safety." 
 
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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 
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Redesign of the State's Job Class 
Update 
As of July 1, 2008, the new job titles became 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. 
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WorkAway 
Georgia's Work Away can help state employees manage rising costs 
The pain at the pump is sending shockwaves through the economy and the wallets of average Georgians. 
Over three quarters of Georgia's workforce drives alone for an average of thirty minutes to work each day. Whether they are coming from Marietta, McDonough, Covington or Douglasville, getting to work in Atlanta can be a long, steering-wheel gripping, and now very costly task. With gas at $4 per gallon and no relief in sight, the Work Away program, introduced by Governor Sonny Perdue in 2003, has helped many state agencies ease the burden of commuting for their employees. 
"Gas prices and long commutes are a challenge for many employees," said Governor Perdue in a recent speech to Cumberland Community Improvement District's Commuter Club. "Many employers, including state government, have developed a range of options for workers that help them save on fuel costs and enjoy stress-free commutes. Continuing to offer these programs and expand them where possible is a great way to reduce congestion and help employees deal with the burden of high gas prices." 
These announcements are just the latest of the Governor's efforts to provide Georgians with commute alternatives and combat high gas prices. Earlier this month, Governor Perdue suspended the scheduled gas tax increase that would have gone into effect on July 1. 
Georgia's Work Away initiative has already begun gaining in popularity as employees sink more and more dollars into their gas tanks and therefore seek to lengthen workdays, shorten work weeks, and reduce weekly miles driven. Both telework and scheduling options (compressed work weeks) have been shown to result in better job performance, improved job satisfaction and employee morale, and a reduction in absenteeism and sick leave usage. 
In addition to cost savings for the employee, cutting back up to 20 percent of individual weekly commutes will take cars off the road and could potentially alleviate metro Atlanta's snarled interstates. 
Contact your HR office for more information on your agency's policies regarding Work Away. 
Other commuter resources: 
http://www.spa.ga.gov/employees/telework.asp 
https://www.myridesmart.com/html/index.htm 
http://www.cleanaircampaign.com/ 
http://www.grta.org 
http://www.itsmarta.com 
 
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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. 
 
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Personnel Board Policies 
New law to standardize HR policies throughout state 
As a top performer in the "people" category in the Pew Center's 2008 Grading the States (http://www.pewcenteronthestates.org/gpp_report_card.aspx), Georgia continues to seek the best practices from the private sector to achieve its mission, "Best Managed State in the Nation". In an organization as large as Georgia state government, standardization of personnel policies and procedures is essential to maintain uniform practices for a varied workforce. 
For years the state has lacked baseline consistency in human resource policies among its nearly 100 agencies. To address this problem, an inter-agency task force consisting of agency leaders and HR professionals was formed. Realizing that no authority existed to establish statewide HR policies, the task force recommended, with significant input from all state agencies, that the law be changed to allow the State Personnel Board to establish such policies--a move that had been previously recommended by the Commission for a New Georgia. 
During the 2008 legislative session, the Georgia General Assembly passed and Governor Perdue subsequently signed Senate Bill 230 (Act 557), enabling the State Personnel Administration and the State Personnel Board to adopt enterprise-wide human resource rules, policies and best practices. This legislation, requested and written by the agencies, standardizes the often-amended language of the code section written in 1943. 
Senate Bill 230 makes no changes to current rules or policies, which only can be done by the State Personnel Board after public comment and approval from the Governor. However, policies regarding antidiscrimination, employer-employee relations, performance management among others will now be managed at the enterprise level. This will provide agencies with a point of reference from which to develop agency specific policies and processes, and will further allow state employees to move from one agency to another with no need to "re-learn" basic HR policies. 
Policies will be written in an easily understood manner for employees and supervisors to ensure consistent application throughout state government. In addition, a series of online informational videos will be made available to provide employees, supervisors, and human resource professionals easy access to review policies. 
Policy Team 
Co-Team Leaders 
Paul Burkhalter, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Natural Resources 
Gary Nagel, Deputy Director of Human Resources, Department of Human Resources 
Team Members 
Angela Woodliff, Deputy HR Director, Department of Transportation 
Mike Long, Department of Corrections 
Sandra Bruce, Hr Director, Department of Defense 
Denise Crowe, Hr Director, Department of Community Affairs 
Rebecca Burton, Department of Human Resources 
Penny Callaway, Gwinnett/Rockdale/Newton Community Service Board 
Kathleen Gosden, Office of the Attorney General 
Laura Hyman, Office of the Attorney General 
Sam Clonts, State Personnel Administration 
Mustafa Aziz, State Personnel Administration 
Executive Sponsor 
Frank Heiny, Assistant Commissioner, State Personnel Administration 
 
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