State personnel news: a news quarterly for and about Georgia state employees [Vol. 21, no. 3 (Oct. 1997)]

State Personnel
NEWS

A news quarterly for and about Georgia State Employees

VOLUME 21, No. 3

October 1997

Governor's Office Wins Emmy State Will Award First

Award for Best Youth Program Variable Pay Increases

Multiple Choice, the juvenile

Miller congratulated the team October 1 marks the awarding 1 percent far exceeded expectations.

crime prevention film produced for

responsible for the film, CYCC Ex- of the first variable pay increases Approximately 1 percent of em-

the Governor's Children and

ecutive Director Judy Neal and under the State's new performance- ployees were rated at the Did Not

Youth Coordinating Council

Producer/Director Dan Johnson of based compensation system.

Meet Expectations level.

(CYCC), won two Emmys at the

ImageMaster Productions. Neal In their first paychecks follow- Under the State's new pay sys-

Southern Regional Emmy Awards

and Johnson won in the category ing the October 1 effective date, tem, increase percentages for the

in Atlanta.

of Best Producers, and Johnson employees will receive salary in- different perfomance levels are set

The regional chapter of the

won a second Emmy for Best Di- creases linked to their performance annually. The Georgia Merit Sys-

National Academy of Television

rector for his direction of Multiple ratings for the year ending June 30, tem analyzes trends in the labor

Arts and Sciences recognizes ex-

Choice.

1997. Increase percentages for the market and makes increase recom-

cellence in television program-

"The power of this film is in performance levels are:

mendations for the following year

ming from a five-state region in-

the true stories of the young people w 4 percent for a

to OPB and the Governor.

cluding Georgia, South Carolina,

profiled," said Johnson. "The kids

Met Expectations rating,

Taking into account the state's

North Carolina, Alabama and Mississippi.
Multiple Choice is a first-hand look at life in the Georgia prison system and details the changes in the law as a result of the Juvenile Justice Reform Act. The film has been shown on statewide television, as well as beamed over satellite to Georgia's schools, and more than 3,500 copies have been dis-

An exciting moment for Judy Neal, Executive Director of the Governor'ss Children and Youth Coordinating Council, and Dan Johnson of

in this film are not actors, and the message they present is profound. It's a serious dose of reality that kids need to see before they get in trouble, before it's too late."
"Our intention from the beginning of this project was to produce an effective, powerful film that
(See Emmy Award, page 2)

w 5.5 percent for an

current fiscal status and overall bud-

Exceeded Expectations

get demands, the Governor deter-

w 7 percent for a

mines the final percentage recom-

Far Exceeded Expectations mendations and submits a total ap-

Data so far submitted to the Of- propriation request to the General

fice of Planning and Budget (OPB) Assembly to fund the increases.

by state agencies show that ap- Last March the General Assem-

proximately 88 percent of employ- bly approved a $61.1 million appro-

ees statewide met expectations, 10 priation to fund this year's Octo-

percent exceeded expectations, and ber 1 increases.

tributed throughout the state to individuals and groups that work with youth.
"We are thrilled with this honor and hope that as a result of

ImageMaster Productions.
Miller. "Teens need to know that their criminal actions have serious consequences in Georgia, and this

Georgia Merit System Takes On New Role, New Name, New Logo

this recognition even more teens film is an excellent vehicle to de-

In the year since the Merit Sys-

Individual agencies are now

will see the film," said Governor liver that message."

tem Reform Act (Act 816) went free to assume many of the person-

hiring, developing, and retaining high quality employ-

into effect on July 1, 1996, the nel activities formerly performed

ees,

Children and Youth Services Changes Title to Juvenile Justice

In a move to provide more clar- agency was often confused with the

ity with respect to the State's juve- Division of Family and Children

nile justice system, the Department Services (DFACS).

of Children and Youth Services on The Commissioner's title has

July 1 officially changed its title to been changed to the Commissioner

the Department of Juvenile Justice. of Juvenile Justice and the Board's

Department officials cited title to Board of Juvenile Justice.

quality service as the primary rea- The agency's new title, Depart-

son behind the agency's name ment of Juvenile Justice, reflects its

change.

continuing efforts to promote

The former title, Department of Children and Youth Services, often proved confusing for citizens, parents, and public officials needing assistance for juvenile delinquency matters. In particular, the

personal accountability in the State's youth,
community protection, rehabilitation of youth en-
trusted to the supervision of the State.

Merit System has taken on a new by Georgia Merit System , and all role, a new name, and a new look. new state employees hired are ex-

To reflect the change of focus empt from the classified service

and function that resulted from the and its administrative and proce-

legislation, the agency has changed dural requirements.

its name from the State Merit Sys-

As a result, the Georgia Merit

tem of Personnel Administration to "Georgia Merit System." As the masthead of the State Personnel News now reflects, the initials of

System has moved from its historical role as the State's central personnel administration authority to

the new name have been worked a role of providing consultation and

into a new agency logo formed by technical assistance to state agen-

the intertwining letters GMS. cies.

The reform legislation signifi-

Now GMS focuses on using

cantly reshaped the relative roles its experience and expertise in hu-

of the Georgia Merit System and man resource management to work

state agencies in the selection, hir- with agencies as a partner in

ing, and management of person- enhancing organizational per-

nel.

formance,

administering benefit programs that aid participants in maintaining personal health and financial security. Agencies will continue to
pay an assessment per employee to fund certain basic personnel activities performed by the Georgia Merit System, such as developing and maintaining the overall pay structure for state government and establishing the pay grades and minimum qualifications for the job classes that are used by multiple agencies.
For other personnel activities, agencies may now elect to:
perform the functions with
their own staffs,

(See GMS, page 2)

Page 2

EMMY AWARD (from page 1)
would make an impression on young people and their parents," said Neal. "When parents think `This does not pertain to my children,' they should think again."
A beautiful female inmate profiled in the film was a good student with college plans when she became involved with a young man that her parents knew would bring trouble. She started smoking pot at 16 and was with her boyfriend one night when he committed armed robbery. She was arrested as an accomplice. Her sentence was 30 years, the same as his. Commenting from her jail cell, this young woman makes it clear in Multiple Choice that nothing is worth being in prison.
Neal and Johnson have successfully produced a second prevention video, Ultimate Choice, which describes first-hand the hardship and challenges teen parents face today. Again, Neal urges

parents to face reality: "With 66 percent of Georgia's high school students reported to be sexually active, children and parents need to watch this latest video."
In addition to both videos being available at all Georgia public libraries, both films can be seen on Georgia Public Television this fall:
Multiple Choice, Thursday, October 23, 2:00 p.m.
Ultimate Choice, Monday, October 6, 1:00 p.m.; Wednesday, October 22, 2:00 p.m.
A third video currently in production, Driving Ambition, will explain Georgia's new teen driving laws. The video will make its debut as a major TV special in all Georgia TV markets, including WSB-TV (Atlanta) on December 30 at 8:00 p.m. following ET.

Governor's Children and Youth Council

Creates Innovative Information Card

Thinking outside the box has become synonymous with the Governor's Children and Youth Coordinating Council (CYCC).
In keeping with its track record of creating innovative educational products targeting youth, they have issued a new tool to educate Georgians about the severe penalties for statutory rape that is an eyecatcher and an eyeopener: a laminated business-size card that contains startling information concerning recent changes in Georgia's statutory rape laws.
"I think we all had a bit of apprehension about using the word

"sex" as the hook to capture people's attention," said Judy Neal, Executive Director. CYCC has many supporters around the state who occasionally are called for opinions about potential projects to assure that they are needed and will be used locally.
"When a school superintendent, who was faxed the mock-up version, called to give his approval and placed a rush order for 2,000 copies, I was convinced the card would be well received," Neal said.
Several days after the order was sent to the superintendent, CYCC

received a call back from the same county from the Sheriff's Office asking for 3,000 copies for ministers who wanted to hand them out in church the following Sunday.
"That was not surprising because during the past several months we have had tremendous interest from the faith community wanting to work with problems that are destroying the very fiber of American life," Neal said.
Anyone interesting in obtaining copies of the card should contact Judy Reynolds of the CYCC at (404) 656-1725.

GMS (from page 1)

contract with GMS to provide the ensuring that agency person-

services on a fee basis, or

nel policies conform with

contract with private-sector con-

employment laws and sound

sultants and providers.

personnel practices.

The functions for which agencies are

now responsible include:

Commenting on the new name

defining agency-unique jobs, estab-

and logo adopted by GMS, Commissioner W. Daniel Ebersole

lishing minimum qualifications for said, "With these changes we af-

those jobs and assigning the jobs to firm that we are committed to

paygrades;

working with agencies as part-

assigning agency positions to jobs; ners and consultants in accom-

recruiting and screening applicants; plishing the State's business."

STATE PERSONNEL NEWS
Volume 21, Number 3
State Personnel Board
Geri P. Thomas, Chair M. David Alalof, Vice Chair Claybon Edwards, Member
Anne Kaiser, Member Robert Wagner, Member
Georgia Merit System
W. Daniel Ebersole, Commissioner
Sally Pope, Editor
The State Personnel News is published quarterly for state employees by the Commissioner's Office of the Georgia Merit System. If you have comments or questions, wish to submit material for publication, or need to correct a distribution problem/address, contact Sally Pope, Editor, State Personnel News, 200 Piedmont Avenue, SE, Suite 504 West Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334, or call 404/ 657-0360. If you have a disability and need this material in an alternative format, notify the Editor at the above listed address, or for TDD Relay Service only: 1-800-255-0056 (text telephone) or 1-800-255-0135 (voice).
The Georgia Merit System is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

entertainment `98
ORDER your entertainment `98 directory NOW!
Dine out, travel, shop, go to the movies or local theatre, play sports, and much more? Do it all with entertainment 98. It is packed with two-for-one and 50% off discounts at hundreds of restaurants and merchants throughout the greater Atlanta metro area. For $20 you get over $20,000 in savings!. A few new restaurants this year are Nickiemoto's, AZIO, Pembrook's, MacArthur's and Two Brothers' Bistro. You also have Burger King, Domino's, Chick-fil-A, Chesapeake Bagel Bakery and Bagelicious. The books are available to view in most of the personnel offices.
Great gift idea!! You are now able to order out-of-town editions of the entertainment book (OVER 170 cities worldwide.) Entertainment will ship them wherever you wish at no cost and the State Personnel Council gets the profit. For information on how to order, please call Roy Woolwine with Entertainment at the number below.
You can order your Atlanta directory via the mail using the order form below. Send checks to: Entertainment Publications, 5885 Glenridge Drive, suite 110, Atlanta, GA 30328. You can use your VISA or Mastercard by calling 404-303-8608. Please mention you are a state employee and the account number 519225 when placing the order.
Send_____ copies of the entertainment 98 directory @ $20 each plus $3.00 for shipping/handling. (No shipping charges for orders of three or more books.)
Name__________________________________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________________________________ City__________________________________________________State____ Zip___________ Phone_________________________
Provided as a benefit to State employees and their families from the State Personnel Council

Page 3

Commissioner Dotty Roach Chairs A Letter to State Employees From Charitable Contributions Campaign SCCP Chairperson Dotty Roach

Department of Administrative Services Commissioner Dotty Roach will chair the State Charitable Contributions 1997-98 campaign, which kicked off August 27 with a breakfast for 220 campaign leaders in the auditorium of the Georgia Power Building.
At the August 27 Kickoff Breakfast, Commissioner Roach announced this year's campaign goal, $2.5 million, and challenged those in attendance to exceed the goal. Last year's campaign generated $2.3 million in contributions from 37,000 state employees, a six percent increase from the previous year and the largest amount raised in the program's history. The upcoming campaign will provide support for over 1,000 independent, federated and local charitable organizations, including two organi-

zations new to the State Charitable Contributions Program roster:
Heart of Georgia United Way --A federated charitable organization, located in Laurens County (Dublin), whose purpose is to promote and support preventative activities and programs that serve atrisk youth, strengthen families, encourage self-sufficiency and provide crisis intervention services.
Foxfire Fund--A fund that supports teachers in their efforts to create learner-centered environments by creating a powerful relationship among teachers, learners and the community (www.foxfire.org).
Visit the Georgia Merit System's web page at www.state.ga.us/GMS, Employee Services and Benefits, for information on all of the charitable organizations participating in the 1997-98 campaign.

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Statewide Charitable Contributions Program, and I am pleased and honored to be the 1997-98 Chairperson. The financial goal for this year's campaign is $2.5 million. This is a significant goal, but I am confident that together we will achieve it.
Historically, state employees have been generous givers to the numerous charitable organizations that aid the individuals, families, and communities of our wonderful state. I know this generosity has made a difference. You probably have seen examples of lives in your community or even in your family affected by the charities we support.
While our monetary donations provide direct assistance to those in need, participating in the charitable contributions program is usually a fun and educational experience as well. This year's campaign promises to be an equally exciting event. We have a fantastic group of coordinators who will take the lead role in creating many memorable events during the campaign.

The Charitable Contributions

Program allows you to choose from

more than 1,000 participating

charities, including earmarking

contributions specifically to pro-

Department of Labor employees check out one of the charitable organizations exhibiting at DOL's 1997 Charityfest

vide services in your own community. Payroll deductions make it

Oglethorpe Award Established for

easy to participate for as little as $1 per month. One-time, lump-sum contributions of any amount also help. All contributions, whether large or small, make a difference. Whether you make a payroll deduction or a one-time contribution of $1, you are actively helping to change Georgia and the world for the better.

Have you ever ex-

pressed concern about

the state of our country,

with the problems facing our family and community structures? This is your chance to do something about it! Talk is cheap, but it won't house an abused child, provide a single unit of blood to an accident victim, help an elderly grandmother enjoy a meal, provide a kidney to a dying man, teach water safety to boaters, or pay for research to eradicate or treat chronic diseases like cancer, arthritis, lupus, or diabetes.

and displays to learn more about and decide which charities to support. I challenge you to select one charity you're not familiar with and learn more about it. Who knows? You may even find a new community service to give your time to as well as your money. Frequently, volunteers guarantee the success and lower the costs of many of these organizations.
Without a doubt, you make a difference in the success of this pro-

The learning, enjoyment, and gram. With your efforts, you'll not

success of previous campaigns was only achieve, but even exceed, the

in large measure the result of your goal of $2.5 million and increase

energy, creativity, and enthusiasm. the number of state employees who

I encourage you to participate ac- participate. "Together Everyone

tively in your organization's cam- Accomplishes More." I'm proud

paign and celebrations. Please re- to be on your TEAM! Thanks for

view the informational materials the opportunity.

Georgia Government and Business Many of you have been using this methodology for increasing effectiveness and efficiency. You

Georgia organizations that want to become more competitive now have another tool to help them increase productivity and customer focus while decreasing costs.
The Georgia Oglethorpe Award, created in 1996 and modeled after the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, is a statewide "high-value, low-cost assessment and feedback process" designed to

gia organization can receive. Like Baldrige, the Georgia
Oglethorpe Award Criteria focus on seven key indicators of performance: leadership, strategic planning, customer and market focus, information and analysis, human resources development and management, process management and business results.
The Georgia Oglethorpe Award

gia Oglethorpe Award Process, Inc., at 404/651-8405.
Governor Miller sent a letter to state agency heads about Quality Service Georgia and the Georgia Oglethorpe Award. The text of the letter follows:
Governor Miller's Letter to State Agency Heads

have been adopting a systems view of your agencies, bringing the voice of your customer into your strategic planning and daily operations, managing and improving service delivery processes and measuring and improving customer satisfaction. I applaud your efforts and the subsequent results.
One of the most important tools that must be used before beginning

stimulate and recognize perfor- Process, a non-profit organization

an organizational improvement ef-

mance excellence in business, in- located in the Georgia Department "As you are aware, in January I fort is a rigorous, comprehensive

dustry, government, education, of Labor, administers the Award released the first state strategic assessment of just how your orga-

healthcare and non-profit organi- Process. The Award is named af- plan for Georgia that represents a nization is doing. The Georgia

zations. The Georgia Oglethorpe Award
Criteria for Performance Excellence gives organizations the framework they need to accurately and successfully assess and diagnose their processes, procedures, and systems-then make changes that drive results. The Georgia Oglethorpe Award represents the highest level of recognition for performance excellence that a Geor-

ter James Edward Oglethorpe, who founded the colony of Georgia in 1733 and saw it as a place of opportunity for all citizens.
Organizations interested in using the Criteria for planning, educational, or assessment purposes (or in submitting an application in 1998) should request information about the Criteria and application process by calling Victoria Currie Taylor, Executive Director, Geor-

comprehensive vision for our state. Oglethorpe Award Criteria for

It provides my view of the Georgia Performance Excellence is just

of tomorrow and the activities that such a tool. The criteria, based

will be required for us to realize that vision. One of the six major areas was the development of effi-

on the 1997 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award Criteria for Performance Excellence, encourage a systemic view, include busi-

cient and effective government. ness results, and help predict fu-

This goal is being addressed ture organizational performance.

through Quality Service Georgia, Private sector businesses are expe-

the quality improvement effort that rienced and sophisticated in the use

I initiated in 1992.

of tools such as this to measure their

performance, and it is time for government to adopt such tools.
The Georgia Oglethorpe Award process has a special category for government organizations, so it is now possible for a state agency to receive recognition for excellence in much the same way the business community has enjoyed with the use of the Malcolm Baldrige Award. I urge you to read the available information and, at minimum, request and use the criteria internally to plan and measure your agency's performance against a world-class framework for performance excellence. It would make me particularly proud if one of our state government agencies applied for and won the Georgia Oglethorpe Award.
If you have any questions concerning the award process, please contact Victoria Taylor, Executive Director, Georgia Oglethorpe Award office, at 404/651-8405. If you have any questions about Quality Service Georgia, please contact Barbara Jones, State Director, Quality Service Georgia office at 404/651-9781."

Page 4
Dads and Moms Join Toddlers for Lunch
On any day of the week, state employees with children enrolled in the Capital Hill Child Enrichment Center can stroll over and join their children for lunch. Located in a bright, modern facility adjacent to the Twin Towers, the AmeriCare Center is an easy walk for parents working on Capitol Hill. The Center has an on-site kitchen with a full-time nutritionist and welcomes parent visitors-- whether for lunch or just to visit! For more information about the Center, or to schedule a tour, call Katherine Garrison at (404) 525-7878.

Page 5

Professional Secretaries Development Program Graduates Honored

On August 6, in the House Chamber The graduates of the 1997 Professional of the State Capitol, Georgia Merit Sys- Secretaries Development Program were:

tem Commissioner W. Daniel Ebersole Department of Administrative Services presented certificates to 50 state employ- Linda K. Wells

ees who completed the Professional Sec- Vivian E. Worley

retaries Development Program (PSDP).
These graduates completed 112 hours of training in office skills, human relations, and leadership skills. They also completed job-related projects as well as examinations to test their knowledge of

Department of Corrections Grace W. Henderson Maxine Whitehurst
Department of Education Artis P. Hough
Georgia Forestry Commission Bonny J. Adams

the information received in their training.
The PSDP was established by the Georgia Merit System in 1987 to provide a

Julia Q. Baker Carol A. Layton Sheila S. Long Mae Alice Massey

comprehensive development program for Gloria H. Thompson support staff in Georgia state government. Mary Jane Turner

Department of Human Resources Applications are now being accepted Sandra L. Byrd

for the next PSDP class, which will be- Judy A. Edge

gin in January 1998.

Martha A. Ferguson

April Lloyd Dianne D. Martin Isabeth P. Martin Ann A. Michael Patsy S. Polk Carole J. Stroud Gail R. Witt
Insurance Commissioner's Office Edith D. Johnson
Department of Juvenile Justice Marsha W. Driggers
Department of Natural Resources Marie J. Kirk
Pardons and Paroles Suzanne W. Baxter Carolyn J. Brown Loretta E. Brown Patricia W. Cox Michelle Crimpton Kathryn Dennis Vicky M. Dixon Toni Y. Fernander Deneen H. Harrell

Alma D. Johnson Sandra P. Kitchens Truly E. Linder Gail Martin Lisa Michelle Morton Stacy C. Rogers Teresa Shirley Kathy Stogner Sherry Tillman Sharon B. Warren Mary D. Young
Public Service Commission Candes E. Lesher
Department of Revenue Linda Hutcheson Samara Malone
Secretary of State Mary K. Aukerman
Department of Technical and Adult Education
Marlene E. Stephens

STATE EMPLOYEES CREDIT UNION
130 Memorial Drive Atlanta, Georgia30303
(404) 656-3748
State Employees Days
SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA
Repeat Performance - "Let's Do It Again"
The State Employees Credit Union has been given the opportunity to participate in a very limited, elite group of sponsors of a heretofore unannounced extended weekend at Six Flags Over Georgia. The dates: Saturday, November 8, 1997 and Sunday, November 9, 1997. State Employees and their guests are all invited to participate in this tremendous benefit to state employees.
Don't miss this opportunity to save money and enjoy Six Flags late in the season. The regular admission price is now $34.00 at the gate this year; your price for this special event is $17.00. This amounts to a $17 per ticket savings (50%). In addition, parking will be halfprice for this event - $3.00 (another $3.00 saving per carload).
Most of your favorite attractions are available for this special event. All of the new 1997 attractions, including all of Gotham City, will be flying high; Viper is just coiled and ready to "strike twice." All the favorites will still be on hand to thrill you - Ninja, The Looping Starship, Ragin' Rivers, Thunder River, Splashwater Falls, Free Fall, The Great-American Scream Machine, The Mind-Bender, The Dahlonega Mine Train, and a local favorite - The Georgia Cyclone, and more. Back by popular demand is The Hanson Cars. Closed to make room for The Georgia Cyclone just inside the front entrance, The Hanson Car ride has been moved to another location and reopened after many families missed the fun of the antique cars and self-drive track. Then, of course, you'll be entertained in the many other shows, games, and attractions you've always loved at Six Flags.
Admission will be through printed and published special coupons. The coupons will be distributed through payroll and personnel offices and/or employee-activity offices through your employer. The coupon is published in this issue of the State Personnel News. Coupons must be presented at the gate on the day(s) of the event to allow participants the special price of $17.00. Tickets do NOT have to be purchased in advance of the event and tickets won't be available at the State Employees Credit Union Offices for walk-in or mail order. You must present a coupon at the Six Flags ticket booth to get the discount and half-priced parking.

Members of the 1997 PSDP "Women of Distinction" class gather for a group photo with Georgia Merit System Commissioner W. Daniel Ebersole and Assistant Commissioner Robert L. Stephens, Jr.
PLEASE COME AGAIN AND JOIN IN ON THE FUN!!!

Page 6

PRIMARY ACCOUNTING
SERIES GRADUATION
On Monday, August 25, graduation exercises were held in the House Chambers of the State Capitol. OPB Director Tim Burgess, State Auditor Claude Vickers, and Georgia Merit System Commissioner W. Daniel Ebersole presented certificates to the following individuals who completed all requirements of the Primary Accounting Series offered through The University of Georgia in FY 1996-97. We offer our congratulations to this year's graduates!

State Financial Management Certificate Program Primary Accounting Series Training Calendar October 1997-March 1998
SCHEDULE (Class hours are 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily)

City

Dates Offered

Grace Au-Yeung, Department of Human Resources

Gwendolyn K. Lawrence, Department of Human Resources

Derek K. Barber, Department of Human Resources

Lois L. Lee, Department of Transportation

Deirdre C. Beasley, Department of Technical and Adult

Elizabeth McGill, Department of Human Resources

Education

Sarah B. McHugh, Department of Human Resources

Jeanette B. Betts, Department of Human Resources

Vangla L. McKenzie, Department of Human Resources

Teresa N. Bohannon, Department of Human Resources

Acetra H. McWilliams, Department of Human Resources

Gail H. Bowen, Department of Human Resources

Barbara Thurman Malone, State Board of Workers'

Carole J. Brown, Department of Human Resources

Compensation

Linda L. Brown, Department of Human Resources

Constance F. Manley, Department of Human Resources

Tara W. Brown, Department of Labor

Evelyn E. McCray, Department of Human Resources

William Lee Brown, Forestry Department

Pamela C. Middleton, Department of Human Resources

Barbara Butler, Georgia Student Finance Commission

Faye Miller, Department of Human Resources

Karen G. Callaway, Department of Human Resources

Janice G. Miller, Georgia Professional Standards Commission

Susan P. Carter, Department of Transportation

Christopher Hartridge Mitchell, Department of Human Resources

Carolyn Caviola, Albany Area Community Service Board Ervin E. Moss, Department of Human Resources

Nancy C. Chesna, Department of Human Resources

Jeanine Miles Mullins, Department of Human Resources

Larry R. Clemmons, Department of Human Resources

Barbara Nash, Department of Human Resources

Cathy L. Coffey, Department of Human Resources

Katherine Cosper Oliver, Department of Human Resources

Lance M. Cooley, Department of Labor

Walt Oliver, Department of Education

Dorothy H. Cox, Department of Human Resources

Patricia M. Pearre, Department of Human Resources

Jerry A. Cox, Department of Human Resources

Sandra G. Petty, Department of Human Resources

Tina F. Crabtree, Department of Corrections

Freddie Phillips, Department of Administrative Services

Gail Crump, Department of Corrections

Keith Phillips, Department of Human Resources

John Lee Davidson, Department of Labor

Linda Turner Powers, Department of Human Resources

Dana D. Davis, Department of Technical and Adult Education Brenda A. Prather, Department of Human Resources

Sheryl E. Dowdy, Department of Human Resources

Charles O. Prescott, Department of Human Resources

Jacque R. DuBose, Department of Juvenile Justice

Christina A. Priddy, Administrative Office of the Courts

Teresa F. Earp, Department of Corrections

A. Rose Pullen, Department of Human Resources

Patricia A. Edwards, Department of Human Resources

Gayle L. Randall, Department of Human Resources

Teresa Kennon Ellison, Department of Human Resources Dinah F. Ransom, Department of Human Resources

Kathy B. Evans, Department of Human Resources

Juanita Ellerbee Respress, Department of Human Resources

Shirley J. Fowler, Department of Human Resources

Faye R. Sapp, Satilla Community Service Board

Marcia Gaston, Department of Labor

Kay P. Shihata, Department of Human Resources

Judy L. Geiger, Department of Agriculture

Donald W. Shirey, Satilla Community Service Board

David Joseph Gerke, Department of Natural Resources

Cathy A. Shumate, Albany Area Community Service Board

Velma E. Grant, Department of Human Resources

Glynis E. Sims, Office of Planning and Budget

Tanguler Gray, Department of Human Resources

Sally E. Skelton, Department of Human Resources

Stephanie Green, Department of Community Affairs

Shelia A. Smith, Department of Human Resources

Rachel Gresham, Department of Human Resources

Pamela M. Spivey, Department of Human Resources

Ingrid LaVerne Hardee, Department of Human Resources Connie J. Steele, Department of Transportation

Jacqueline T. Hart, Department of Human Resources

Linda H. Stipe, Satilla Community Service Board

Lavonia C. Hayes, Department of Human Resources

Donna R. Street, State Merit System of Personnel

Gail Dianne Healan, Department of Human Resources

Administration

Joe Henneberger, Department of Human Resources

Shari D. Thomas, McIntosh Trail Community Service Board

Lajuana Yvette Henry, Department of Human Resources Janet M. Thompson, Department of Medical Assistance

Brenda B. Hester, Department of Human Resources

Joe Floyd Tillman, Jr., Department of Human Resources

Rodney Hicks, Department of Human Resources

Barbara D. Turner, Department of Human Resources

Dianne Jackson, Department of Human Resources

Gregory Turner, Department of Human Resources

Catherine C. Johnson, Department of Human Resources

Terry Williamson, Department of Technical and Adult

Darcy W. King, Department of Human Resources Brunette Lampley, Department of Human Resources

Education Artherlene E. Willis, Department of Human Resources

Dallas B. Lancaster, Department of Human Resources

Ch Y. Wyatt, Office of Planning and Budget

Mary Landrum, Department of Human Resources

Charlotte Zubowicz, Department of Human Resources

1997 Southeast Regional Governmental Accounting & Auditing Conference
The nation's leading speakers will present up-to-date information on changes affecting government's fiscal community (12 hours A&A).
November 2-4, 1997 Savannah, GA Marriott
Please call Teresa Palmer for additional information on this conference at (706) 542-2736.

Introductory Governmental Accounting Part I

Atlanta

February 24,25,26,27, 1998 March 17,18,19,20, 1998

Brunswick

February 16,17,18,19, 1998

Columbus

November 18,19,20,21, 1997

Decatur

January 27,28,29,30, 1998 March 9,10,11,12, 1998

Morrow

February 24,25,26,27, 1998

Introductory Governmental Accounting Part II

Atlanta

October 20,21,27,28, 1997

March 30,31,April 1,2, 1998

Brunswick

March 24,25,26,27, 1998

Columbus

December 15,16,17,18, 1997

Decatur

March 3,4,5,6, 1998 March 30,31,April 1,2, 1998

Macon

October 14,15,16,17, 1997

Milledgeville November 24,25, December 4,5, 1997 March 16,17,18,19, 1998

Intermediate Governmental Accounting Part I

Atlanta

October 8,9,10, 1997

Columbus

January 14,15,16, 1998

Macon

November 12,13,14, 1997

Milledgeville January 7,8,9, 1998

Morrow

November 17,18,19, 1997

Intermediate Governmental Accounting Part II

Atlanta Exam

October 29,30,31, 1997 December 5, 1997 (9:00-12:00 noon)

Columbus Exam

February 16,17,18, 1998 March 13, 1998 (9:00-12:00 noon)

Macon Exam

December 15,16,17, 1997 January 13, 1998 (9:00-12:00 noon)

Milledgeville February 11,12,13, 1998

Exam

March 12, 1998 (1:00-4:00 pm)

Morrow Exam

December 8,9,10, 1997 January 20, 1998 (9:00-12:00 noon)

If you are a graduate of the Primary Accounting Series, you will be interested in the Governmental Accounting Standards Workshop. This workshop will be updated annually to provide you with information on the latest GASB statements, interpretations, exposure drafts and discussion memorandums.
Governmental Accounting Standards 1997 Atlanta December 3, 1997 Morrow March 2, 1998
Examination Test-Out and Retest Dates Atlanta December 5, 1997 (1:00-4:00 p.m.) Macon March 6, 1998 (9:00-12:00 noon)

For registration information, fee information,or a detailed description of the State Financial Management Certificate Program, please call Janet Andrews or Teresa Palmer at The University of Georgia (706) 542-2736.

Page 7

NurseCall 24 Is A Hit!

Free Self-Care Guides

Now that first month statistics are in, it is clear that the

NurseCall 24 program is popular with State Health Benefit

Plan members! The following facts and figures are for the

period of July 1 through July 31, 1997:

Total calls handled by nurses

14,313

Total calls involving a medical problem

8,116

Average number of calls per day

461

Calls received from 12 pm to midnight

67%

Most common medical problem

Insect Bites

Average speed of answer

33 seconds

Free Self-Care Guides ordered*

7,337

The number of calls placed to NurseCall 24 shows that

thousands of Plan members took advantage of the free ser-

vices offered. In fact, call volume was over three times

what was expected.

Because call volume is so great, more registered nurses

have been added to the NurseCall 24 program and more

nurses are "on the way" to answer members' calls -- 24

hours a day, seven days a week.

Many members who already called NurseCall 24 are giv-

ing very positive feedback. Comments like these are quite

common: "Really appreciate the service!"; "The informa-

tion I received far exceeded my expectations"; and "I saved

so much time not having to go to the doctor!"

*See "Free Self-Care Guides" to find out how to order

copies.

Quality Service Georgia Network Holds Third Annual Conference Theme Is "Building Strategies for the 21st Century Government"

It's a jungle out there. Forget about dog-eat-dog--there are tigers on your tail! So we've chosen the perfect location for the QSG Network's third annual conference -- Zoo Atlanta's Conservation Action Resource Center. It's an exciting, brand new educational and conference facility with state-of-the-art teleconferencing and presentation technology. And it's set right in the middle of real tigers and other jungle animals to make you feel right at home. The role of government is changing, and to survive in this environment, you need the kind of resources and information you'll find at this conference. If you can't join us in Atlanta, you can still participate in four great sessions through GSAMS sites at Augusta Tech and Tifton's Rural Development Center. For further information, contact Ronda Britt at 404-657-8422.

Schedule

Wednesday, October 8, 1997

9:00 10:00 a.m.

Welcome, Opening Remarks, and Keynote Speaker

10:15 - 11:45 a.m.

y Organizational Turnaround: Turning a Blue Collar Work Force into a High Performance Team;
y Future Focus: Organizational Structures for the 21st Century; y Georgia Oglethorpe Award; y State Strategic Plan: Where Does QSG Fit In? Results-based Budgeting;

11:30 a.m. 1:00 p.m. 1:00 2:30 p.m.

LUNCH
y Future Focus: Organizational Structures for the 21st Century; y Benchmarking What the Private Sector is Doing; y Organizational Turnaround: Turning a Blue Collar Work Force into a High Perfor-
mance Team; y Moderated Panel Discussion on Real-life Quality Problems and Their Solutions;

2:30 2:45 p.m. 2:45 4:15 p.m.

BREAK
y Georgia Oglethorpe Award; y How to Design Performance Measures and Surveys; y DHR on Streamlining Their Services; y Re-engineering Your Organization Around Process: The Georgia Department of
Defense;

Thursday, October 9, 1997

9:00 9:15 a.m.

Welcome Back and Announcements

9:15 10:15 a.m.

Future Focus: Systems Thinking -- Looking at the World Through a Wide-angle Lens

10:15 10:30 a.m.

BREAK

10:30 11:30 a.m.

Benchmarking What Other States are Doing: South Carolina

11:30 a.m. 12: 45 p.m. LUNCH

12:45 2:00 p.m.

Benchmarking What Non-profits are Doing: Zoo Atlanta

Just call NurseCall 24 toll-free at 1-800-5247130 and ask for one. It's that simple! This easyto-use and informative book can help you become a more knowledgeable and active partner in your health care. In the 286 pages, you'll find practical guidance to everyday medical decisions--from the common cold and caring for a child with asthma to tips on prevention--plus down-to-earth discussions on more serious conditions like heart disease and cancer.
Special Edition UPDATER
The Georgia Merit System will publish an October 1, 1997, edition of the UPDATER for distribution to all employees eligible for State Health Benefit Plan coverage. If you are eligible for health coverage, you can anticipate receiving a copy from your employer during the month of October. The UPDATER is your official notification of important Plan activity and any procedural changes. UPDATER highlights are summarized below:
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): In some cases, prior health coverage can be used to reduce the Health Plan's 12-month pre-existing condition period. Individuals losing SHBP coverage will receive certificates of creditable coverage. Pre-existing condition periods no longer apply to pregnancies, newborns, or children adopted or placed for adoption under the age of 18. All HIPAA changes became effective July 1, 1997.
New Pre-Certification Rules Effective January 1, 1998: SHBP members will no longer have to call the MCP to pre-certify inpatient stays or to extend an already approved inpatient stay at Prudent Buyer Program (PBP) hospitals. The responsibility will lie with PBP hospitals to pre-certify care. However, if a member uses a non-PBP hospital, the member remains responsible for all current MCP requirements. The outpatient procedures that currently require MCP precertification will continue to require pre-certification.
New Filing Deadline for Appeals Effective October 1, 1997: SHBP members will have 180 days - from the date an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) form is issued - to file an administrative review for a medical or drug claim.
New Dollar Limit for Formal Appeals Effective October 1, 1997: For items of $100 or less, the decision reached by the Plan during the administrative review process will be final.
New Time Limit for Claim Corrections and Questions Effective October 1, 1997: Members will have up to two years from the EOB issue date to call the Plan's customer service unit and request a correction of routine or clerical errors. The two-year limit also applies to routine questions about specific claims.

Page 8

Georgia Merit System Training Calendar
Open (Interagency) Sessions

This is the calendar of Georgia Merit System open (interagency) courses. GMS interagency courses are offered statewide and are open to all state government employees. Registration for GMS training is coordinated by agency Training Officers.
In addition to interagency courses, the Georgia Merit System

provides training through closed sessions. These are courses conducted for a single agency to meet the specific training needs of that organization. Closed courses can also be customized to meet an agency's objectives.
Course descriptions, the price list for both closed courses and

open courses, and registration forms are available from agency Training Officers and the GMS Training and Organization Development Division. This same information can also be found on the Georgia Merit System Web site on the Internet: http:/www.state.ga.us./GMS/ under "Agency HR Support Net".

October 1997 - February 1998
Management and Supervisory Development A Team Approach (2 days) NEW
Dealing with Difficult Employee Behavior (1 day) NEW
Respect and Responsibility - A Positive Approach to Discipline (1 day) NEW

Open Enrollment
Fee
$100
$50
$50

Georgia Performance Management Process Training (3.5 days)

$19

Managing Conflict in the Workplace Supervising in a Challenging Environment (3 days) NEW Secretarial and Support Staff Development Human Relations Skills for Secretaries (2 days) Sharpening Your Proofreading Skills (3 days)

$50 $195
$100 $170

Time Management for Secretaries (1 day) Communication Skills Development Communication: It's More Than Talk (2 days) Creating Effective Communication and Training Materials (3 days) Make an Effective Presentation The Path of Dialogue (2 days) NEW Writing That Works (1 day) Workplace Skills Development Advanced Charting Design (1 day) NEW Evelyn Wood Reading Dynamics (1 day) NEW Meeting Customer Needs (1 day) NEW
Stress: How To Recognize and Control It (2 days)
Quality Service Georgia Training Series Introduction to Quality (.5 days) Trainer Skill Development Advanced Design for Creating Effective GSAMS Presentations (1 day) NEW Training Seminars by Satellite Juran: Leadership Strategies for the New Millennium Leading Teams Effectively
Connective Leadership: Managing Diversity
Principle-Centered Leadership: The Next Phase
Creating Organizations that Support Great Work

$50 $100 $220 $235 $200 $70 $100 $135 $50
$100
$35 $100 $35 $35
$35
$35
$35

October (Date) (City)
21 Decatur 21 - 24 Macon 27 - 30 Decatur 15 - 16 Decatur
22 Decatur
28 Decatur Macon Rome

November (Date) (City)
4 - 7 Decatur 18 - 21 Waycross
13 Decatur 19 - 21 Decatur 17 - 20 Decatur
6 Decatur

December (Date) (City) 11 - 12 Decatur
2 - 5 Savannah
23 Columbus
16-18 Decatur
10 - 11 Macon
11 Decatur
4 Decatur
9 Decatur
2 -3 Decatur

January (Date) (City)
13 Augusta
14 Augusta
22 Columbus

February (Date) (City) 4 - 5 Rome
10 - 13 Tifton

6 - 7 Decatur 13 - 15 Gainesville 27 - 29 Decatur 12 - 14 Savannah

17 - 19 Savannah
3 - 5 Macon

28 - 29 Decatur 21 - 23 Decatur
21 Decatur

26 - 27 Decatur
23 Decatur

8 Albany
14 Savannah
6 - 7 Albany 12 - 13 Savannah
9 Rome

25 Decatur 10 - 11 Decatur
3 Decatur

18 Decatur Macon Waycross

19 Decatur

9 Decatur Macon Savannah