| Minutes |
| SDASCOE 50th STATE CONVENTION April 30th - May 1st , 2010 |
Copyright 2010 SDASCOE. All rights reserved.
Web Hosting by Yahoo!
Web Hosting by Yahoo!
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| SDASCOE |
Nicky's at Madison, SD
The pre-convention Board of Directors meeting was held on Friday for a review and update with the main topic
being the proposed boundary change to be presented to the general session for discussion and voting. The By-
Laws state resulting elections in these districts or areas having a change shall take place prior to June 1st.
Newly-elected Directors will take office July 1st.
A brief discussion was held on the national database for home email address requests from members.
General announcements may still be allowed, but give this serious consideration as this database may be our
means of communicating business regarding NASCOE/SDASCOE. The database is being implemented in
preparation for the conversion. The form for updating the database is published in the SDASCOE newsletter
and available on the website www.geocities.com/sdascoe.
In preparation for the convention the committee chairs met with committee members for discussion and
proposals to the board. Committee chairs gave a short recap of their committee meeting discussions.
Following the Board meeting Larry and Brent Keyes gave a presentation on retirement preparation, pointing out
the “traps” we need to avoid. An individual’s retirement can be unique and they can propose options. Contact
your director for more information if you are interested in the calculations and the options they are proposing.
Larry Olsen, Legislative Chairman presented updates and events inWashingtonDCalong with representatives
from Stephanie Herseth-Sandlin and Tim Johnson’s offices. One issue covered was the health care bill that
allows dependants to be insured through age 27 that was passed.
GENERAL BUSINESS SESSION May 1st
The general session came to order at 8:30 am with the Posting of the Colors by the Madison VFW and the
Pledge of Allegiance. Randy Richards sang the National Anthem; the invocation and military recognition was
given by Mike Goetzinger and Mayor Gene Hexom extended a welcome to all participants. At this time a military
and departed member’s recognition was given.Jim Anderson, President welcomed all in attendance recognizing
the host counties, staff and special guests.
J M Marketing representatives gave a brief overview of available new and existing benefits and presented
SDASCOE with a $100 donation. Their discussion covered benefits that are available to us, two in particular the
extension of the dental/vision benefit and the Accident Death & Dismemberment Insurance benefit. The FedMen
also gave a presentation regarding their new service of putting together federal benefits information for our
members. They will provide members with a complimentary employee benefits analysis. Their proprietary
analysis will demonstrate how to maximize benefits you have earned; provide future financial and valuable
planning tools to increase your retirement potential. This detailed federal benefits information is generated into
an in-depth personalized benefits analysis specific to your retirement plan and financial portfolio. Feel free to
contact them for information or evaluations at JM Marketing 1-800-330-6223, info@jminsuredirect.com, http:
//www.jminsuredirect.com.
RASOCE President Al Dangel gave a brief summary of areas of concern on the work and support of two bills
HR235 (SB484) and HR1203 (SB491), dealing with pension (GPO) windfall package and social security (WEP)
paying health care insurance out of pocket after taxes not like pretax or flex. These bills will affect all retirees and
one day we will all reach retirement. He stated RASCOE always supports SDACOE and their members are
associate members.
Senator Thune’s top Ag Advisor Lynn Tjeerdsma fromWashingtonstated it was an honor and privilege to be here
and he started as a COT inSouth Dakotain 1985 and moved on from FSA toWashington. He discussed
happenings within FSA from theWashingtonview.
He stated NASCOE and SDACOE sending messages toWashingtonmakes a difference for our future and
positions. Technology is moving forward and although MIDAS is a hardship now it will be a benefit in the end.
We need your ideas to improve and streamline FSA. There was a big discussion on the SURE program and
continual changes constantly brought to the county office which is causing producers to loose confidence in our
organization.
He stated it’s known we will continue to administer the SURE program in 2009 and some 2010. The need is to
improve the program so loading is not constant changes. They are aware of the lack of confidence from COF
and producer messages are stronger under the SURE program than any other program administered. FSA is
the can do agency and we are loosing that image. Another issue presented is administering programs before
the regulations are published and in these cases we need to provide as much communication to the COF and
producer as possible. He assured us he would convey our thoughts and ideas as he definitely feels our
frustration.
Craig Schaunaman, SED thanked the membership for the opportunity to address quite a milestone and the
employees for service to the agency during these challenging times. He then addressed the challenges he’s
facing as an SED. He stated bi-weekly he reports to WDC on our budget allocation. He said it’s been an
interesting challenge not having the budget to meet expenses. He also informed us there are 33 employees
eligible to retire this year. Not only will we be losing the potential of years of knowledge but we also payout lump
sums for those retirees which is an additional burden to our State. He also realizes and understands the
frustration we have with the SURE program and is in contact with WDC quite regularly and is trying to do
everything he knows to help make this program run as smoothly as possible with the resources that are
available. He encourages anyone who has questions or concerns to call or email him.
One suggestion made by Jill Perman, PT atBrownCountywas the SURE workload concept of sending 10 files at
a time out of heavy workload counties to adjoining counties for input. And he wanted any feedback as to whether
or not this type of tool was working and extended a special thank you for those counties accepting the workload.
As an agency we have to learn to be more efficient with the programs. Also, monies for the temporary employees
to assist with the SURE program implementation was allocated to the District Directors for distribution of the
temps where needed.
He stressed the importance of the Go Green initiative and collecting e-mail addresses to move into an electronic
age; CED’s can communicate monthly through e-mail and eliminating the paper trail and still maintain
communication. His challenge to all employees was we as an agency as budget tightens with the tools at hand
have to think outside the box. He stated he was the type of person who doesn’t expect anything from anyone he
wouldn’t do himself.
Myron Stroup NASCOE President visited about NASCOE concerns and projects including the re-classification of
Program Technicians still being a work-in-progress. In the near future a “District Specialist” position would be a
person who is proficient or an expert in a selected program that would serve as the main provider in training to
multiple county offices in the District. This would not be a position assigned to assist the District Directors.
He also commented on the fact that WDC is starting to gather comments and information on the next Farm Bill.
There is a field hearing in Sioux Fallson Tuesday, May 18th on the campus ofAugustanaCollege at 8 AM. This is
the final place for hearings, as others will be conducted across the nation.
Cindy Hall, NWA Executive discussed the importance of the Political Action Committee (PAC) and gave a slide
presentation. You can elect to contribute money on the NASCOE website to PAC in order for us to be heard on
The Hill and obtain additional information. You may select EPP financial allotment on the website opposed to
direct deposit. You can track who NASCOE has contributed to but as a reminder federal election rules apply and
you must stay within the boundaries. Any questions you may have regarding PAC contact your Director. Cindy
then presented a 50th year history of NASCOE for newer members. Becky Zirpel and Cindy Peterson arranged a
history booth for the 50th anniversary of SDASCOE.
At this time Roll Call was taken with 96 present. Jim Anderson then recognized the Boards District Directors,
Alternates and Committee Chairs in attendance.
Motion was made by Rich Rische to accept the bid for the 2011 State Convention to be held in Ft. Pierre, with the
Hand-Hyde counties hosting a Luau theme. Larry Gauger seconded the motion. Motion carried and all were in
favor.
First time attendees Brett Knox, JoAnn Schock and Jan Larson were recognized and a drawing of one attendee
will receive a $25 gift certificate to The NASCOE Store.
MINUTES AND FINANCIAL REPORTS:
The minutes for the State Convention held in Wall, SD on May 1-2nd was read as published. A motion was
made by Mary Johnson to approve and accept said minutes as published; motion was seconded by Larry
Olsen. All were in favor. The financial report was given and a brief discussion on future expenses. A motion
was made by Marcia Bunger to approve said report; motion was seconded by Donnie McManus. All were in favor.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Copies of the respective reports given by Colleen Peterson, Awards and Scholarships; Jeannie Emmett,
Benefits; Larry Olsen, Legislation; Lori Jones, Membership; Roxie Stambach, Emblems and Programs; Cathy
Olstad, Ways and Means; and Bonnie Nickelson and Dawn Sheehan, Publicity; Marcia Bunger, Webmasters;
Becky Zirpel, Cap Wiz; are published in this issue of the newsletter and located on the SDASCOE website.
Jennifer Chavez made a motion to accept and approve all committee reports and motion was seconded by
Cathy Olstad. All were in favor.
OLD BUSINESS
There was a short recap on travel and members attending the NWA Rally and the National Convention.
NEW BUSINESS
There was a discussion of the By-Law proposal to re-district boundaries. Larry Olsen made a motion to adopt
the proposal as written. There being no other discussion motion was seconded by Becky Zirpel. All were in
favor.
Board of Director Elections was to be held immediately after adopted proposal for districts or areas having a
change shall take place prior to June 1st. Newly-elected Directors will take office July 1st.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Stan Lamb nominated Brenda Wicks for the treasurer position. Mary Johnson seconded the nomination and
moved that all nominations cease and a unanimous ballot be cast. Becky Zirpel nominated Racheal Kirkebak
for the secretary position. Larry Olsen seconded the nomination and moved that all nominations cease and a
unanimous ballot be cast. Cindy Peterson nominated Becky Zirpel for the vice-president position. Racheal
Kirkebak seconded the nomination and moved that all nominations cease and a unanimous ballot be cast.
Mary Johnson nominated Peggy Groen for the president position. Larry Olsen seconded the motion and moved
that all nominations cease and a unanimous ballot be cast. All were in favor.
With no further business to attend to a motion was made to adjourn by Roxie Stambach and seconded by
Monica Cooper. All were in favor. Meeting adjourned at 2:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Dianna Shafer, Secretary-Treasurer
The pre-convention Board of Directors meeting was held on Friday for a review and update with the main topic
being the proposed boundary change to be presented to the general session for discussion and voting. The By-
Laws state resulting elections in these districts or areas having a change shall take place prior to June 1st.
Newly-elected Directors will take office July 1st.
A brief discussion was held on the national database for home email address requests from members.
General announcements may still be allowed, but give this serious consideration as this database may be our
means of communicating business regarding NASCOE/SDASCOE. The database is being implemented in
preparation for the conversion. The form for updating the database is published in the SDASCOE newsletter
and available on the website www.geocities.com/sdascoe.
In preparation for the convention the committee chairs met with committee members for discussion and
proposals to the board. Committee chairs gave a short recap of their committee meeting discussions.
Following the Board meeting Larry and Brent Keyes gave a presentation on retirement preparation, pointing out
the “traps” we need to avoid. An individual’s retirement can be unique and they can propose options. Contact
your director for more information if you are interested in the calculations and the options they are proposing.
Larry Olsen, Legislative Chairman presented updates and events inWashingtonDCalong with representatives
from Stephanie Herseth-Sandlin and Tim Johnson’s offices. One issue covered was the health care bill that
allows dependants to be insured through age 27 that was passed.
GENERAL BUSINESS SESSION May 1st
The general session came to order at 8:30 am with the Posting of the Colors by the Madison VFW and the
Pledge of Allegiance. Randy Richards sang the National Anthem; the invocation and military recognition was
given by Mike Goetzinger and Mayor Gene Hexom extended a welcome to all participants. At this time a military
and departed member’s recognition was given.Jim Anderson, President welcomed all in attendance recognizing
the host counties, staff and special guests.
J M Marketing representatives gave a brief overview of available new and existing benefits and presented
SDASCOE with a $100 donation. Their discussion covered benefits that are available to us, two in particular the
extension of the dental/vision benefit and the Accident Death & Dismemberment Insurance benefit. The FedMen
also gave a presentation regarding their new service of putting together federal benefits information for our
members. They will provide members with a complimentary employee benefits analysis. Their proprietary
analysis will demonstrate how to maximize benefits you have earned; provide future financial and valuable
planning tools to increase your retirement potential. This detailed federal benefits information is generated into
an in-depth personalized benefits analysis specific to your retirement plan and financial portfolio. Feel free to
contact them for information or evaluations at JM Marketing 1-800-330-6223, info@jminsuredirect.com, http:
//www.jminsuredirect.com.
RASOCE President Al Dangel gave a brief summary of areas of concern on the work and support of two bills
HR235 (SB484) and HR1203 (SB491), dealing with pension (GPO) windfall package and social security (WEP)
paying health care insurance out of pocket after taxes not like pretax or flex. These bills will affect all retirees and
one day we will all reach retirement. He stated RASCOE always supports SDACOE and their members are
associate members.
Senator Thune’s top Ag Advisor Lynn Tjeerdsma fromWashingtonstated it was an honor and privilege to be here
and he started as a COT inSouth Dakotain 1985 and moved on from FSA toWashington. He discussed
happenings within FSA from theWashingtonview.
He stated NASCOE and SDACOE sending messages toWashingtonmakes a difference for our future and
positions. Technology is moving forward and although MIDAS is a hardship now it will be a benefit in the end.
We need your ideas to improve and streamline FSA. There was a big discussion on the SURE program and
continual changes constantly brought to the county office which is causing producers to loose confidence in our
organization.
He stated it’s known we will continue to administer the SURE program in 2009 and some 2010. The need is to
improve the program so loading is not constant changes. They are aware of the lack of confidence from COF
and producer messages are stronger under the SURE program than any other program administered. FSA is
the can do agency and we are loosing that image. Another issue presented is administering programs before
the regulations are published and in these cases we need to provide as much communication to the COF and
producer as possible. He assured us he would convey our thoughts and ideas as he definitely feels our
frustration.
Craig Schaunaman, SED thanked the membership for the opportunity to address quite a milestone and the
employees for service to the agency during these challenging times. He then addressed the challenges he’s
facing as an SED. He stated bi-weekly he reports to WDC on our budget allocation. He said it’s been an
interesting challenge not having the budget to meet expenses. He also informed us there are 33 employees
eligible to retire this year. Not only will we be losing the potential of years of knowledge but we also payout lump
sums for those retirees which is an additional burden to our State. He also realizes and understands the
frustration we have with the SURE program and is in contact with WDC quite regularly and is trying to do
everything he knows to help make this program run as smoothly as possible with the resources that are
available. He encourages anyone who has questions or concerns to call or email him.
One suggestion made by Jill Perman, PT atBrownCountywas the SURE workload concept of sending 10 files at
a time out of heavy workload counties to adjoining counties for input. And he wanted any feedback as to whether
or not this type of tool was working and extended a special thank you for those counties accepting the workload.
As an agency we have to learn to be more efficient with the programs. Also, monies for the temporary employees
to assist with the SURE program implementation was allocated to the District Directors for distribution of the
temps where needed.
He stressed the importance of the Go Green initiative and collecting e-mail addresses to move into an electronic
age; CED’s can communicate monthly through e-mail and eliminating the paper trail and still maintain
communication. His challenge to all employees was we as an agency as budget tightens with the tools at hand
have to think outside the box. He stated he was the type of person who doesn’t expect anything from anyone he
wouldn’t do himself.
Myron Stroup NASCOE President visited about NASCOE concerns and projects including the re-classification of
Program Technicians still being a work-in-progress. In the near future a “District Specialist” position would be a
person who is proficient or an expert in a selected program that would serve as the main provider in training to
multiple county offices in the District. This would not be a position assigned to assist the District Directors.
He also commented on the fact that WDC is starting to gather comments and information on the next Farm Bill.
There is a field hearing in Sioux Fallson Tuesday, May 18th on the campus ofAugustanaCollege at 8 AM. This is
the final place for hearings, as others will be conducted across the nation.
Cindy Hall, NWA Executive discussed the importance of the Political Action Committee (PAC) and gave a slide
presentation. You can elect to contribute money on the NASCOE website to PAC in order for us to be heard on
The Hill and obtain additional information. You may select EPP financial allotment on the website opposed to
direct deposit. You can track who NASCOE has contributed to but as a reminder federal election rules apply and
you must stay within the boundaries. Any questions you may have regarding PAC contact your Director. Cindy
then presented a 50th year history of NASCOE for newer members. Becky Zirpel and Cindy Peterson arranged a
history booth for the 50th anniversary of SDASCOE.
At this time Roll Call was taken with 96 present. Jim Anderson then recognized the Boards District Directors,
Alternates and Committee Chairs in attendance.
Motion was made by Rich Rische to accept the bid for the 2011 State Convention to be held in Ft. Pierre, with the
Hand-Hyde counties hosting a Luau theme. Larry Gauger seconded the motion. Motion carried and all were in
favor.
First time attendees Brett Knox, JoAnn Schock and Jan Larson were recognized and a drawing of one attendee
will receive a $25 gift certificate to The NASCOE Store.
MINUTES AND FINANCIAL REPORTS:
The minutes for the State Convention held in Wall, SD on May 1-2nd was read as published. A motion was
made by Mary Johnson to approve and accept said minutes as published; motion was seconded by Larry
Olsen. All were in favor. The financial report was given and a brief discussion on future expenses. A motion
was made by Marcia Bunger to approve said report; motion was seconded by Donnie McManus. All were in favor.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Copies of the respective reports given by Colleen Peterson, Awards and Scholarships; Jeannie Emmett,
Benefits; Larry Olsen, Legislation; Lori Jones, Membership; Roxie Stambach, Emblems and Programs; Cathy
Olstad, Ways and Means; and Bonnie Nickelson and Dawn Sheehan, Publicity; Marcia Bunger, Webmasters;
Becky Zirpel, Cap Wiz; are published in this issue of the newsletter and located on the SDASCOE website.
Jennifer Chavez made a motion to accept and approve all committee reports and motion was seconded by
Cathy Olstad. All were in favor.
OLD BUSINESS
There was a short recap on travel and members attending the NWA Rally and the National Convention.
NEW BUSINESS
There was a discussion of the By-Law proposal to re-district boundaries. Larry Olsen made a motion to adopt
the proposal as written. There being no other discussion motion was seconded by Becky Zirpel. All were in
favor.
Board of Director Elections was to be held immediately after adopted proposal for districts or areas having a
change shall take place prior to June 1st. Newly-elected Directors will take office July 1st.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Stan Lamb nominated Brenda Wicks for the treasurer position. Mary Johnson seconded the nomination and
moved that all nominations cease and a unanimous ballot be cast. Becky Zirpel nominated Racheal Kirkebak
for the secretary position. Larry Olsen seconded the nomination and moved that all nominations cease and a
unanimous ballot be cast. Cindy Peterson nominated Becky Zirpel for the vice-president position. Racheal
Kirkebak seconded the nomination and moved that all nominations cease and a unanimous ballot be cast.
Mary Johnson nominated Peggy Groen for the president position. Larry Olsen seconded the motion and moved
that all nominations cease and a unanimous ballot be cast. All were in favor.
With no further business to attend to a motion was made to adjourn by Roxie Stambach and seconded by
Monica Cooper. All were in favor. Meeting adjourned at 2:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Dianna Shafer, Secretary-Treasurer