National Convention Archives

2010 - 2019

44th Annual Convention Des Moines, Iowa 2019

44th Annual NWSEO National Convention News

October 8, 2019 pdf version

(October 8, 2019) Due to the National Elections results, the Southern Region and NCEP Region Chairs became vacant. The NWSEO National Council approved Chris Jacobson to become the new Southern Region Chair, with Rob Niemeyer continuing as Southern Region Vice Chair. Former NCEP Region Vice Chair Suru Saha became NCEP Region Chair, and the National Council approved Christa Jacobs to become the new NCEP Region Vice Chair. Congratulations to all.

NWSEO LUNCHEON
Guest Speaker Representative Cindy Axne (D) Des Moines Iowa
Speaker AOML Vice Steward Evan Forde
Dan Sobien presented Membership Awards to the following top recruiters:
Evan Forde, AOML Vice Steward
Brandon Dunstan, ER Steward WFO Raleigh, NC
Joe Maloney, SR Steward WFO Miami, FL
The March Madness Membership Drive brought in 70 new members and MVP and Steward Jim Andersen of Hanford, CA was recognized for his outstanding work in recruitment.
An Award of Excellence was given to CR Chair Jim Lee for his outstanding recruitment efforts. Jim has recruited & welcomed 8% of all NWSEO members!

Convention Keynote Speakers and Special Guests

U.S. Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA 17th District and national co-chair, Bernie Sanders campaign) spoke to NWSEO Members on behalf of Senator Bernie Sanders.

Link to video: Message to NWSEO Members from Senator Warren

Theresa Greenfield (Democrat), candidate for the U.S. Senate from Iowa and backed by unions throughout the state.

“Unions are essential to the fabric of our economy and lift up hardworking families across our state, and I’m honored to have their support. I’ll continue to be a vocal ally for union members as Iowa’s next Senator.”

Convention Banquet

Bill Hopkins and Suzanne Sims were recognized and honored for their retirement, years of service and dedication to the NWSEO family. Bill and Suzanne were made lifetime members by the convention. Barry Hirshorn was also made a lifetime member.

Congratulations to Mark Pellerito – Recipient of the NWSEO 2019 Kip Robinson Award
This annual NWSEO award is given in recognition of members volunteering their time and talents to make NWSEO a stronger union.

The Kip Robinson Award is named after a late lobbyist who worked diligently for NWSEO. Past winners include Chris Jacobson, Bill Proenza, Bill Hirt, John Stansfield, Barry Hirshorn, Chis Sisko, Delyne Kirkham, Steve Pritchett, Shannon White, David Marsalek, Steve Wannebo, Mitch MacDonald, John Werner, Jason B. Wright, JoAnn Becker, and Michael Dion.

Please forward your convention photos to Christy Fox at mediarelations@nwseo.org.

Congratulations all! Thanks for all you do for NWSEO.

-NWSEO-

Hotel Shuttle Information

The Hotel offers a shuttle service to and from the airport. The Hotel is ~5 miles away from the Airport. If people would like to use the Airport Shuttle, they need to call in advance.

Airport shuttle service, on request, complimentary

Mon-Sun: 04:30 AM - 11:00 PM

Shuttle Phone: +1 515 245-5500

Here is the Link: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/maps/travel/dsmia-des-moines-marriott-downtown/

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Rep. Cindy Axne and Theresa Greenfield
to Speak at NWSEO Convention

(September 24, 2019) In an effort to get national level political personalities to be familiar with NOAA and the NWS, the NWSEO invites local politicians to our convention. Last year Congressman Conner Lamb spoke at our convention and this year the Congressman has been an outspoken advocate for the agency. Cindy Axne and Theresa Greenfield have accepted our invitation to speak at the 2019 NWSEO National Convention in Des Moines, IA Saturday, October 5.

Cindy Axne (Democrat) is the Representative from Iowa's 3rd Congressional District in the U.S. House, which includes Des Moines. She serves on the House Agriculture and Financial Services Committee.
Axne was one of the first two women to win election to the U.S. House of Representatives from Iowa.
Prior to serving in the U.S. Congress, Axne worked for the Tribune Company and the Iowa state government and started a business with her husband.
Theresa Greenfield (Democrat) is a candidate for the U.S. Senate from Iowa and is backed by unions throughout the state.
“Unions are essential to the fabric of our economy and lift up hardworking families across our state, and I’m honored to have their support. I’ll continue to be a vocal ally for union members as Iowa’s next Senator.”–Theresa Greenfield

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2019 NATIONAL OFFICER NOMINATIONS

Dear NWSEO Members,

The 2019 NWSEO Elections for National Officers will take place at the NWSEO National Convention in Des Moines, IA on October 5, 2019. In order to familiarize all members with the experience, skills and knowledge that candidates for National Officer bring to this position, we have provided the opportunity for the candidates to submit a brief autobiography that is posted for you at the link: NWSEO Convention News - Candidates page. We hope you will visit this page often in the next few weeks to learn about the candidates. All candidates are listed under the type of nomination alphabetically by last name.

If you have any questions, please contact Executive Vice President, Bill Hopkins at execvice@nwseo.org. Thank you for your continued support of NWSEO.

Sincerely,
NWSEO Leadership

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Nominations are due in writing, certified or registered mail by September 21, 2019.

Daniel A. Sobien, National President
National Weather Service Employees Organization
601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
South Building, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20004

On May 17, 2019 Christopher Shulz nominated Delyne Kirkham to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.

On May 21, 2019 Delyne Kirkham nominated Dan Sobien to serve as NWSEO President.
On May 21, 2019 Delyne Kirkham nominated JoAnn Becker to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.
On May 21, 2019 Delyne Kirkham nominated David Solano to serve as NWSEO Secretary-Treasurer.

On May 21, 2019 David Solano nominated Dan Sobien to serve as NWSEO President.
On May 21, 2019 David Solano nominated David Solano to serve as NWSEO Secretary-Treasurer.

On May 23, 2019 Wayne Weeks nominated Delyne Kirkham to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice-President.

On May 24, 2019 Bill Hopkins nominated JoAnn Becker to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.

On May 25, 2019 David Solano nominated John Werner to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.

On May 29, 2019 Suranjana Saha nominated JoAnn Becker to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.

On June 1, 2019 Chris Jacobson nominated John Werner to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.
On June 1, 2019 Chris Jacobson nominated David Solano to serve as NWSEO Secretary-Treasurer.

On June 3, 2019 Suzanne Sims nominated Dan Sobien to serve as NWSEO President.
On June 3, 2019 Suzanne Sims nominated John Werner to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.

On June 10, 2019 Dan Sobien nominated Delyne Kirkham to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.
On June 10, 2019 Dan Sobien nominated David Solano to serve as NWSEO Secretary/Treasurer.
On June 10, 2019 Dan Sobien nominated JoAnn Becker to serve as NWSEO Secretary/Treasurer.

On June 19, 2019 Jim Lee nominated John Werner to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.

On July 8, 2019 Gerald Claycomb nominated Delyne Kirkham to serve as NWSEO Executive Vice President.

On September 21, 2019 Hugh Sharkey nominated John Werner to serve as NWSEO President.

Note: John Werner has withdrawn his nomination for NWSEO Executive Vice President as of 9/24/2019.
Note: JoAnn Becker has withdrawn her nomination for NWSEO Secretary/Treasurer as of 9/26/2019.

Delegate Reports for October 4, 2019

Below are the Delegate Reports as of October 4, 2019 for each region.

AOC Region Delegate Report
AOML Region Delegate Report
NESDIS Region Delegate Report
NAG Region Delegate Report
NCEP Region Delegate Report
HQ Region Delegate Report
ALASKA Region Delegate Report
PACIFIC Region Delegate Report
WESTERN Region Delegate Report
SOUTHERN Region Delegate Report
CENTRAL Region Delegate Report
EASTERN Region Delegate Report

Delegate Reports for September 28, 2019

Below are the Delegate Reports as of September 28, 2019 for each region.

Delegate Reports for September 9, 2019

Below are the Delegate Reports as of September 9, 2019 for each region.

Delegate Reports for August 19, 2019

Below are the Delegate Reports as of August 19, 2019 for each region.

Delegate Reports for August 2, 2019

Below are the Delegate Reports as of August 2, 2019 for each region.

2019 NWSEO OFFICIAL ELECTION LETTER
Mailed May 3, 2019

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NWSEO Convention News

(May 14, 2019) Please review the following important information with an updated LINK below for you to reserve your room now for the 44th Annual NWSEO National Convention in Des Moines, IA on October 5 – 6, 2019.
Hotel Reservations: If you plan to attend the convention, you are responsible for making your hotel reservations. NWSEO has successfully negotiated the room rate based on the Fiscal Year 2020 per diem rate (plus taxes). The Fiscal Year 2019 per diem rate for Des Moines is currently $108. Room reservations must be made by September 13, 2019.

Hotel Reservations can be made by individual attendees directly with Marriott Reservations at 1 (800) 228-9290 or (515) 245-5500 or using the link:

Click Here to Book your Group Rate for National Weather Service Employees Organization

Please mention that you are a NWSEO member and attending the convention in order to get the negotiated room rate. If you have any questions, email membership@nwseo.org. Thank you.

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2019 NWSEO Election Letter Is In the Mail! See PDF Link Above for Full Election Letter

May 4, 2019 Four Winds print copy

(May 4, 2019) The 2019 Election Letter is in the mail to NWSEO members. As an added convenience, we are posting the letter at Convention News/2019_Convention_Election_Letter.php. The Elections Letter details the procedures to nominate NWSEO members for NWSEO branch office positions and to participate in elections. Local office elections include the positions: Branch Steward and Vice Steward, Delegate and Alternate Delegate.

Information on the 44th Annual NWSEO National Convention is also included in the Elections Letter. All NWSEO members are invited to attend the NWSEO Convention at the award-winning Des Moines Marriott Downtown on October 5 - 6 (Saturday - Sunday event). The Des Moines Marriott is located at 700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA, 50309. Set in the vibrant downtown business district, the Des Moines Marriott Downtown places you near the DSM Airport and offers a complimentary roundtrip shuttle.

The annual National Convention is the governing body of NWSEO. It is also a time to learn in depth about NWSEO’s work and accomplishments. You’ll hear about upcoming events, strategies and opportunities. This is also a great opportunity to network with other professionals throughout the country. Many NWSEO members return to the event every year.

Hotel Reservations: If you plan to attend the convention, you are responsible for making your hotel reservations. NWSEO has successfully negotiated the room rate based on the Fiscal Year 2020 per diem rate (plus taxes). The Fiscal Year 2019 per diem rate for Des Moines is currently $108. Room reservations must be made by September 13, 2019.
Hotel Reservations can be made by individual attendees directly with Marriott Reservations at 1 (800) 228-9290 or (515) 245-5500 or using the link:
Book your group rate for National Weather Service. Please mention that you are a NWSEO member and attending the convention in order to get the negotiated room rate.

DELEGATE INCENTIVE
Any convention delegate who is certified as representing a minimum of 25 percent of the Region’s total available delegate votes, from at least two branches from Regions that have more than one branch, is eligible for the Convention Delegate Incentive. NWSEO will reimburse reasonable airfare*, 2-nights lodging at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, and approved group meals for attendance at the 2019 NWSEO Convention. The 25 percent threshold will be based on the certified 2018 total votes for each respective region.

RECRUITMENT INCENTIVE
For any NWSEO member who recruits two or more new members to join NWSEO using the Form 1187 for payroll deduction (not by credit card) from August 1, 2018 to July 31, 2019, NWSEO will provide reasonable airfare, 3 nights lodging, and approved group meals for the 2019 NWSEO Convention at the Marriott Downtown, Des Moines, IA on October 5 and 6. The name of the recruiter must be on the submitted 1187 in order for them to receive recruitment credit.

* In order for airfare to be reimbursed, you must be able to provide documentation that it is the lowest available rate, purchased at least 21 days before the convention, unless approved otherwise. Printed copies of airfares from Expedia or other travel sites may serve as documentation.

Recruitment is important this year, as NWSEO works to negotiate the new Collective Bargaining Agreement which will shape the future of the NWS. We need to increase membership to keep our organization strong. The NWSEO Recruitment page includes a wealth of information and speaking points to help with recruitment efforts.

NWSEO will keep you informed about convention plans in the coming months. Updates will be available on https://nwseo.org/convention.php. We hope to see you at the convention!

-NWSEO-

2019 NWSEO Elections Preparations Underway -
Address Updates Requested

April 19, 2019 print copy

(April 19, 2019) NWSEO is preparing to mail the 2019 Notice of Convention & Elections Letter to all of our members this month. If you have moved in the past two years, please send your new home address to NWSEO Membership Director Christy Fox at membership@nwseo.org by Wednesday, April 24 to ensure that you receive your letter.

The elections letter details the procedures to nominate and participate in local and national elections for NWSEO.

Information for the 2019 National Convention is included in the elections letter. All NWSEO members are invited to attend the convention. The 44th Annual NWSEO National Convention will take place on Saturday-Sunday, October 5-6, 2019 at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, Iowa.

Any NWSEO member who recruits two or more new members to join NWSEO using the 1187 form for payroll deduction (not by credit card) from August 1, 2018 to July 31, 2019, NWSEO will provide airfare (within reason), 3-nights lodging, and group meals for the 2019 NWSEO National Convention.

Updated information on preparations for the NWSEO Convention and elections will be posted on https://nwseo.org/convention.php over the next few months.

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PDF copy for Save the Date Flyer

43rd Annual Convention Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 2018

NWSEO Convention Travel Incentive for the
2019 NWSEO Convention in Des Moines, Iowa Announced

October 9, 2018 print copy

(October 9, 2018) NWSEO membership fuels our professional organization. This year, increasing our membership numbers is critical to NWSEO’s success as we work to negotiate the new Collective Bargaining Agreement, protect jobs, and fill understaffed offices. We need your help to strengthen our membership base.

At the 43rd Annual National Convention in Pittsburgh, PA, convention attendees shared great discussion on recruitment ideas, and together voted to keep the NWSEO Convention Travel Incentive:

NWSEO Convention Travel Incentive for the 2019 NWSEO Convention:
Any NWSEO member who recruits two or more new members to join NWSEO using the 1187 form for payroll deduction (not by credit card) from August 1, 2018 to July 31, 2019, NWSEO will provide reasonable airfare, 3 nights lodging, and approved group meals for the 2019 NWSEO Convention at the Marriott Downtown, Des Moines, IA on October 5 and 6. The name of the recruiter must be on the submitted 1187 in order for them to receive recruitment credit.

Please talk to the non-members in your office. Let them know that only NWSEO members will have a say in CBA negotiations. It’s time to build the future of the NWS and the new CBA will shape the future of the NWS, the future of your jobs, and how NWS employees will be treated. Strong membership equals strong negotiations.

The NWSEO Recruitment page includes a wealth of information about NWSEO, along with successful recruiting ideas and job specific highlights of how NWSEO has improved your working conditions.

Here is a list of some of the information available to you in a printable format on the NWSEO Recruitment page:

Top Twenty NWSEO Accomplishments
Job Specific Letters highlighting NWSEO achievements
Top Ten Reasons to Join NWSEO
Recruitment Tips
Speaking Points
NWSEO Member Testimonials
The 1187 form to join via payroll deduction

Remember…
NWSEO is the only organization with the ability to lobby Congress and the Administration to preserve NWS jobs, promote better working conditions and career promotions for NWS, and participate in collective bargaining. We thank you for your support of NWSEO and the strength it brings to our professional organization.

-NWSEO-

2018 CONVENTION ELECTION RESULTS

Aircraft Operations Center Officers (AOC)
Steward - Todd Richards
Vice-Steward - Wayne Pullen

Alaska Region (ONLY CONTESTED REGIONAL ELECTIONS)
Chairperson – Mike Ottenweller
Vice Chair – Kimberly Vaughan

Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory Officers (AOML)
Steward – Jay Harris
Vice Steward – Evan Forde

Central Region
Chairperson – Jim Lee
Vice Chair – Andy Boxell

Eastern Region
Regional Chairperson – David Solano
Vice Chairperson - Barry Lambert

Headquarters Region
Chairperson – Mike Dion
Vice Chairperson – Ashley Kells

National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Region
Chairperson – JoAnn Becker
Vice Chairperson – Suru Saha

National Environmental Satellite, Data, Information Service (NESDIS) Wallops Officers
Chairperson – Hugh Sharkey
Vice Chairperson – Aaron Savage

NOAA Attorney's Guild
Chairperson – Mitch MacDonald
Vice Chairperson – Lauren Smoker

Pacific Region
Chairperson – Chris Jacobson
Vice Chairperson – Nathan Becker

Southern Region
Chairperson – John Werner
Vice Chairperson – Rob Niemeyer

Western Region
Chairperson – Suzanne Sims
Vice Chairperson – Robert Ruehl

43rd Annual National Convention
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
September 30th/October 1st, 2018

AGENDA

Sunday, September 30

Salon 2-3 Grand Ballroom

7:00 – Registration
8:00 – Call meeting to order, Appoint a parliamentarian, Call for reading 2017 Convention minutes - NWSEO President Dan Sobien
8:15 – Financial Report & 2019 Budget – NWSEO Secretary-Treasurer David Solano
9:00 – NWSEO Executive Vice President Bill Hopkins Report
9:30 – Break
9:45 – NWSEO General Counsel Richard Hirn
11:00 - Representative Conor Lamb (D-PA, 18th District) – Keynote Speaker
11:50 - Credentials Committee - Angie Margrave & Delyne Kirkham

12:00 – Lunch – Salon 5 Grand Ballroom

1:00 - Credentials Committee - Angie Margrave & Delyne Kirkham
1:05 – Legislative Report - Legislative Director Richard Hirn
3:00 – PAC Report – Dan Sobien & Richard Hirn
3:30 – Break
3:45 – President’s Report - NWSEO President Dan Sobien
5:00 – Closing Remarks/Adjourn for Regional Caucus/Election Results

6:30 - 9:00pm Banquet -Salon 5 Grand Ballroom
Brief out Regional Elections

Monday, October 1st
Salon 2-3 Grand Ballroom
8:00 – Media Relations/Membership/Recruitment Report – Director of Membership Christy Fox
8:30 – Recruitment – Central Region Chairperson Jim Lee
9:30 – NOAA Attorneys’ Guild Report - NOAA Attorneys’ Guild Vice President Mitch MacDonald
9:40 – NESDIS Report - NESDIS Vice President Hugh Sharkey
10:00 – Break
10:15 – New NWSEO Web Site – Erik Youngquist
10:45 – NWS Presentation Special Guest Speaker- NWS Deputy Assistant Administrator
Mary Erickson.
11:30 – Diversity – Mary Erickson, Dan Sobien, Delyne Kirkham, Jason Wright, Mike Ottenweller, Linda Engbretson, and others.

12:00 – Lunch with Regional Meetings – Salon 5 Grand Ballroom

1:00 – Alaska brief and how it may impact WFOs. Jim Brader
1:20 – Constitution Committee Report – NWSEO Constitution Committee Chair Chris Jacobson
2:30 – Break
2:45 – New Business
3:30 - Committee Appointments
Announce 2019 Convention Location….Des Moines, Iowa
4:00 – Closing remarks

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NWSEO National Convention Reservation Extended

September 10, 2018 Print Copy

(September 10, 2018) The Marriott Pittsburgh City Center Hotel has agreed to extend the room reservation deadline to this Friday, September 14, 2018 for our 43rd NWSEO National Convention attendees. If you plan to attend, you are responsible for making your hotel reservations. NWSEO has successfully negotiated a room rate starting at $129 per night plus taxes. Room reservations
can be booked directly with the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center by calling 1.877.645.3553 or using the link: Book your group rate for NWSEO Annual Conference. Please mention that you are an NWSEO member and attending the convention in order to get the negotiated room rate.

Hotel Description: With a stay at Marriott Pittsburgh City Center Hotel, you'll be centrally located in Pittsburgh, within a 10-minute drive of Duquesne Incline and Monongahela Incline. This hotel is 3.9 mi (6.3 km) from University of Pittsburgh and 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from PNC Park.

If you have any issues or need to speak to someone directly about making your room reservations, please contact NWSEO Membership Director Christy Fox at (202) 907-3036.

LINK: 2018 NWSEO Convention Flyer for your Bulletin Boards

-NWSEO-

Representative Conor Lamb to Keynote
NWSEO Convention
August 6, 2018 Print Copy

The newest member of the House Science Committee, Representative Conor Lamb (D-PA) has accepted our invitation to be the keynote at the 2018 NWSEO National Convention in Pittsburgh on Sunday, September 30. Rep. Lamb was recently elected to Congress in a special election on March 13 in the 18th Congressional District of Pennsylvania because of the strong assistance of organized labor. He is one of the four Democrats serving on the Science Committee’s Subcommittee on the Environment, which has jurisdiction over the NWS, NESDIS and other “dry” NOAA agencies. Prior to Congress, Conor Lamb served as a Marine Corps JAG Officer and was a Federal prosecutor in Pittsburgh.

-NWSEO-

Delegate Reports for September 27, 2018

Below are the Delegate Reports as of September 27, 2018 for each region.

For quick reference the 2018 election letter is linked here.

AOC Region Delegate Report
AOML Region Delegate Report
NAG Region Delegate Report
NESDIS Region Delegate Report
NCEP Region Delegate Report
HQ Region Delegate Report
ALASKA Region Delegate Report
PACIFIC Region Delegate Report
WESTERN Region Delegate Report
SOUTHERN Region Delegate Report
CENTRAL Region Delegate Report
EASTERN Region Delegate Report

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Delegate Reports for September 10, 2018

Below are the Delegate Reports as of September 10, 2018 for each region.

For quick reference the 2018 election letter is linked here.

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Delegate Reports for September 3, 2018

Below are the Delegate Reports as of September 3, 2018 for each region.

For quick reference the 2018 election letter is linked here.

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Delegate Reports for August 27, 2018

Below are the Delegate Reports as of August 27, 2018 for each region.

For quick reference the 2018 election letter is linked here.

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Delegate Reports for August 13, 2018

Below are the Delegate Reports as of August 13, 2018 for each region.

For quick reference the 2018 election letter is linked here.

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Delegate Reports for August 6, 2018

Below are the Delegate Reports as of August 6, 2018 for each region.

For quick reference the 2018 election letter is linked here.

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Delegate Reports for July 30, 2018

Below are the Delegate Reports as of July 30, 2018 for each region.

For quick reference the 2018 election letter is linked here.

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Delegate Reports for July 23, 2018

Below are the Delegate Reports as of July 23, 2018 for each region.

Before delegates can be "certified" (if there was an election), the Credentials Committee Representative must receive the hard copy ballots through the mail and certify that they were cast appropriately. We can initially accept scanned copies (we have suggested both for Alaska and Pacific regions, as snail mail takes so long) to ensure there were no election irregularities (to determine whether an election needs to be rerun or not), but we must physically receive the hard copy ballots before they are actually considered "certified." A ballot that is confusing or contains errors has lead to elections being overturned and then rerun. Some common ballot problems are:

misspelled candidate names, or
not having all names that were nominated by deadline on the ballot
unclear instructions
the failure to include the correct ballot return date (this year the date was July 20, 2018)
identifying the ballots in any way (names, alpha or numeric characters on them, or assigned to a voter, etc)
not allowing members to be present when the ballots are counted
ballots that may be deemed to favor one candidate over another (e.g., larger font size, different color, bolding or italicizing a specific candidate name, listing in order of a "preference")

For quick reference the 2018 election letter is linked here.

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2018 NWSEO ELECTIONS
July 20, 2018 Print Copy

(July 20, 2018) The 2018 NWSEO Local Branch Election ballots (if more than one person was nominated for Steward, Vice Steward or Delegate) are due to be submitted today. The current steward was responsible for establishing a sealed box in which members would return their ballots no later than today Friday, July 20, 2018. Although it is not required, it is recommended that the steward convene a local NWSEO meeting for the purpose of opening the ballot box and counting the ballots. The counting of the ballots should take place as soon after Friday, July 20, 2018 as possible. Notification to the winning candidate of the results should be made immediately after, also notifying your Credentials Committee POC and NWSEO Membership Director.

The election of the Regional Chair and other regional officers will be conducted by delegates at the Convention. The newly elected regional officers will take office at the conclusion of the convention at which the election was held.

For more information on 2018 Elections and contact information, please review the NWSEO Election Letter which was mailed to members’ homes in early-May and is available online at https://nwseo.org/convention.php.

This year, the 2018 NWSEO National Convention will be held at the award-winning Pittsburgh Marriott City Center on September 30-October 1, 2018 (Sunday-Monday event). The Pittsburgh Marriott City Center is located at: 112 Washington Place, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219. This hotel is just minutes from the best of downtown Pittsburgh - from Duquesne University to PNC Park.
The annual National Convention is the governing body of NWSEO. It is also a time to learn in depth about NWSEO’s work and accomplishments. You’ll hear about upcoming events, strategies and opportunities. This is also a great opportunity to network with other professionals throughout the country. Many NWSEO members return to the event every year.

If you plan to attend the convention, you are responsible for making your hotel reservations. NWSEO has successfully negotiated a room rate starting at $129 per night plus taxes. Room reservations must be made by September 10, 2018. They can be booked directly with the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center by calling 1.877.645.3553 or using the link: Book your group rate for NWSEO Annual ConferencePlease mention that you are an NWSEO member and attending the convention in order to get the negotiated room rate.

Recruitment Incentive
There is still time to earn the NWSEO Recruitment Incentive. Once someone joins the NWSEO, they recognize the value and strength of NWS employees working together for a cause and often become a member for life. Because of this, NWSEO offers the following recruitment incentive to our members:

For any NWSEO member who recruits two or more new members to join NWSEO using the1187 form for payroll deduction(not by credit card) from August 1, 2017 to July 31, 2018, NWSEO will provide reasonable airfare*, 3-nights lodging, and approved group meals for the 2018 NWSEO Convention at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center. The name of the recruiter must be on the submitted 1187 in order for them to receive recruitment credit.

Convention Delegates Incentive:
Any member who accumulates a minimum of 25 percent of the Region’s available delegate votes (which must include delegate votes from at least two branches from Regions that have more than one branch), NWSEO will reimburse reasonable airfare*, 2-nights lodging at the Convention hotel, and approved group meals for attendance at the 2018 NWSEO Convention at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center. The 25 percent threshold will be based on the certified 2017 total votes for each respective region.

NWSEO will keep you informed about convention plans in the coming months. Updates will be available on https://nwseo.org/convention.php. We hope to see you at the convention!

*In order for airfare to be reimbursed, you must be able to provide documentation that it is the lowest available rate, purchased at least 21 days before the convention, unless approved otherwise. Printed copies of airfares from Expedia or other travel sites will serve as documentation. NWSEO will NOT pay for first class travel nor travel through CWT/SatoTravel. DO NOT USE CWT/SatoTravel.

-NWSEO-

NWSEO 2018 Elections – List of Delegates and Votes per Branch
July 5, 2018 print copy

(July 5, 2018) The 2018 NWSEO Elections will take place at the NWSEO National Convention in Pittsburgh, PA on September 30 and October 1 this year. This is a Sunday-Monday convention.

This year, we are posting on https://nwseo.org/convention.php the names of the delegates from each branch. Please review this important information and report any updates and corrections to the Credentials Committee Member identified on the list. The delegates will attend the convention and vote on the issues on the convention agenda and participate in voting during this year’s election of NWSEO Regional Chairs and Vice Chairs.

A delegate holds one vote for each NWSEO member in the branch represented. On the lists below, you will see the number of votes available at the branch the delegate who represents it. Please keep in mind that the delegate may not cast all of the available votes because any NWSEO member who attends the convention is entitled to cast their own vote (thus reducing the number of votes that the delegate will cast).

If a delegate cannot attend the convention, the alternate delegate will cast the designated votes for the branch.

These preliminary results are subject to the NWSEO members in attendance at the NWSEO Convention. Each region’s page will be updated weekly as the votes for delegate are certified by the NWSEO Elections Credentials Committee.

As noted in this year’s Election Letter, any member who accumulates a minimum of 25 percent of the Region’s available delegate votes (which must include delegate votes from at least two branches from Regions that have more than one branch), NWSEO will reimburse reasonable airfare**, 2-nights lodging at the Convention hotel, and approved group meals for attendance at the 2018 NWSEO Convention at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center. The 25 percent threshold will be based on the certified 2017 total votes for each respective region.

The annual convention is open to all NWSEO members. You are encouraged to attend, participate in discussions and vote. If you attend the convention and are not a delegate you will cast your own vote and the delegate for your branch will have one less vote to cast on behalf of your branch. For more information on the NWSEO elections and the National Convention, please read the Elections Letter posted at https://nwseo.org/convention.php.

To submit updates, corrections or changes to the delegate lists or branches, please contact the Credentials Committee Representative listed on that specific region’s Delegate Count Page by Monday, August 20, 2018.

**In order for airfare to be reimbursed, you must be able to provide documentation that it is the lowest available rate, purchased at least 21 days before the convention, unless approved otherwise. Printed copies of airfares from Expedia or other travel sites will serve as documentation. Government travel. ie SATO/CWT is NOT acceptable.

AOC Region Delegate Report
AOML Region Delegate Report
NAG Region Delegate Report
NESDIS Region Delegate Report
NCEP Region Delegate Report
ALASKA Region Delegate Report
PACIFIC Region Delegate Report
WESTERN Region Delegate Report
SOUTHERN Region Delegate Report
CENTRAL Region Delegate Report
EASTERN Region Delegate Report

-NWSEO-

2018 Regional Chair and Vice Chair Nominations

Nominations are due in writing, certified or registered mail, postmarked by Friday, June 1, 2018 to:

Daniel A. Sobien
National President
National Weather Service Employees Organization
601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, South Building, Suite 900

Central Region

On May 8, 2018 Andy Boxell nominated Jim W. Lee for Central Region Chair.

On May 8, 2018 Andy Boxell nominated Andy Boxell for Central Region Vice Chair.

Western Region

On May 9, 2018 Suzanne Sims nominated Suzanne Sims as Western Region Chair.

On May 9, 2018 Suzanne Sims nominated Robert Ruehl as Western Region Vice Chair.

Pacific Region

On May 11, 2018 Chris Jacobson nominated Chris Jacobson for Pacific Region Chair.

On May 11, 2018 Chris Jacobson nominated Nathan Becker for Pacific Region Vice Chair.

On May 15, 2018 Nathan Becker nominated Chris Jacobson for Pacific Region Chair.

On May 15, 2018 Nathan Becker nominated Nathan Becker for Pacific Region Vice Chair.

Headquarters Region

On May 12, 2018 Mike Dion nominated Mike Dion for NWS Headquarters Region Chair.

On May 12, 2018 Mike Dion nominated Ashley Kells for NWS HQ Region Vice Chair.

On May 26, 2018 Ashley Kells nominated Ashley Kells for NWS HQ Region Vice Chair.

Alaskan Region

On May 15, 2018 Chris Popham nominated Jim Brader for Alaskan Region Chair.

On May 17, 2018 Michael Ottenweller nominated Michael Ottenweller for Alaskan Region Chair.

On May 18, 2018 Kimberly Vaughan nominated Kimberly Vaughan for Alaskan Region Vice Chair.

On May 24, 2018 Jim Brader nominated Jim Brader for Alaskan Region Chair.

On May 24, 2018 Jim Brader nominated Kimberly Vaughn as Alaskan Region Vice Chair.

On May 30, 2018 Wes Adkins nominated Jim Brader for Alaskan Region Chair.

On May 30, 2018 Wes Adkins nominated Kimberly Vaughan for Alaskan Region Vice Chair.

On May 31, 2018 Michael Ottenweller nominated Lindsay Tardif-Huber for Alaskan Region Vice Chair.

Southern Region

On May 17, 2018 Jason B. Wright nominated John Werner for Southern Region Chair.

On May 17, 2018 Jason B. Wright nominated Rob Niemeyer for Southern Region Vice Chair.

On May 18, 2018 Rob Niemeyer nominated John Werner for Southern Region Chair.

On May 18, 2018 Rob Niemeyer nominated Rob Niemeyer for Southern Region Vice Chair.

On May 24, 2018 Mark R. Wilson nominated John Werner for Southern Region Chair.

On May 31, 2018 Forrest Mitchell nominated John Werner for Southern Region Chair.

On May 31, 2018 Forrest Mitchell nominated Rob Niemeyer for Southern Region Vice Chair.

On June 1, 2018 Adam Futterman nominated John Werner for Southern Region Chair.

On June 1, 2018 Adam Futterman nominated Rob Niemeyer for Southern Region Vice Chair.

Eastern Region

On May 5, 2018 David Solano nominated David Solano for Eastern Region Chair.

On May 5, 2018 David Solano nominated Barry Lambert for Eastern Region Vice Chair.

On May 16, 2018 Barry Lambert nominated David Solano for Eastern Region Chair.

On May 16, 2018 Barry Lambert nominated Barry Lambert for Eastern Region Vice Chair.

NCEP Region

On May 22, 2018 JoAnn Becker nominated JoAnn Becker for NCEP Region Chair.

On May 22, 2018 JoAnn Becker nominated Suranjana Saha for NCEP Region Vice Chair.

NESDIS

On May 31, 2018 Hugh Sharkey nominated Hugh Sharkey for NESDIS Regional Chair.

On May 31, 2018 Hugh Sharkey nominated Aaron Savage for NESDIS Regional Vice Chair.

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2018 NWSEO Election Nomination Deadline

June 1, 2018

(June 1, 2018) This is a reminder that nominations for Regional Chair, Regional Vice Chair, Steward, Vice Steward, Delegate and Alternate Delegate are due today.

A Recap of NOMINATION PROCEDURES

Branch Steward/Vice Steward Nominations – If you are a member in good standing of a branch, you may nominate yourself or any other member in good standing from your local branch for the position of branch steward or vice steward. Nominations must be in writing, dated and signed by the member making the nomination and presented to your local branch Steward and Regional Chair by June 1, 2018.

Regional Officer Nominations – Also due in writing postmarked by June 1, 2018. If you have been a member of NWSEO since September 2017, you may nominate yourself to run as a candidate for any regional office. Regardless of how long you have been a NWSEO member, you may nominate any other union member in your region as a candidate for regional officer, provided that the person you nominate has been a member since September 2017. If you nominate someone for regional chair/vice chair, please contact your nominee to ensure they accept the nomination.

Nominations for Regional Chairperson and Regional Vice Chairperson must be in writing and certified/registered mail postmarked today, June 1, 2018 to:
Daniel A. Sobien, National President
National Weather Service Employees Organization
601 Pennsylvania Ave NW, South Building, Suite 900
Washington, D.C. 20004

Names of NWSEO members who have been nominated for the positions of Regional Chairperson and Regional Vice Chairperson are posted daily on https://nwseo.org/convention.php

Please refer to the 2018 Official Notice of Elections and the Update to the 2018 Elections Letter, posted on our website at https://nwseo.org/convention.php. Thank you.

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Important Update: 2018 NWSEO Elections Letter
May 15, 2018 print copy

(May 15, 2018) The 2018 Elections Letter is in the mail to all NWSEO members. As an added convenience, we have posted the letter at https://nwseo.org/convention.php. The Elections Letter details procedures for local and regional elections. However, there was an error on Page Two, Item One, NOMINATION PROCEDURES.

In reference to Regional Chairperson and Regional Vice Chairperson Nominations only, please note email nominations are NOT acceptable. All nominations for Regional Chairperson and Regional Vice Chairperson are to be sent via Certified Mail or Registered Mail and postmarked by June 1, 2018 to:

Daniel A. Sobien
National President
National Weather Service Employees Organization
601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, South Building, Suite 900
Washington, DC. 20004

Information on preparations for the NWSEO Convention and elections will be posted on the NWSEO website at www.nwseo.org.

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2018 Official Notice of Elections

May 3, 2018 Print Copy

~~IMPORTANT OFFICIAL NOTICE OF ELECTIONS~~

May 3, 2018

Dear NWSEO Member,

This letter is your notification of nomination and election procedures for 2018. It also contains information about the 43rd Annual NWSEO National Convention. NWSEO will post this letter on our website: https://nwseo.org/convention.php.

You are invited to attend the 2018 NWSEO Convention at the award-winning Pittsburgh Marriott City Center on September 30-October 1, 2018 (Sunday-Monday event). The Pittsburgh Marriott City Center is located at: 112 Washington Place, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219. This hotel is just minutes from the best of downtown Pittsburgh - from Duquesne University to PNC Park.

All NWSEO members are invited to attend the convention and attendance is free. Transportation, lodging, and most meals are at your own expense. NWSEO will provide lunch on both days of the convention and a banquet dinner on Sunday evening. Please note the NWSEO Recruitment Incentive: For any NWSEO member who recruits two or more new members to join NWSEO using the1187 form for payroll deduction(not by credit card) from August 1, 2017 to July 31, 2018, NWSEO will provide reasonable airfare*, 3-nights lodging, and approved group meals for the 2018 NWSEO Convention at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center. The name of the recruiter must be on the submitted 1187 in order for them to receive recruitment credit.
* In order for airfare to be reimbursed, you must be able to provide documentation that it is the lowest available rate, purchased at least 21 days before the convention, unless approved otherwise. Printed copies of airfares from Expedia or other travel sites will serve as documentation.

Hotel Reservations: If you plan to attend the convention, you are responsible for making your hotel reservations. NWSEO has successfully negotiated a room rate starting at $129 per night plus taxes. Room reservations must be made by September 10, 2018. They can be booked directly with the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center by calling 1.877.645.3553 or using the link: Book your group rate for NWSEO Annual Conference. Please mention that you are an NWSEO member and attending the convention in order to get the negotiated room rate. (pdf of complete letter)

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2018 NWSEO Elections Preparations Underway -
Address Updates Requested
April 19, 2018 print copy

(April 19, 2018) NWSEO is preparing to mail the 2018 Elections Letter to all of our members this month. If you have moved in the past two years, please send your new home address to NWSEO Membership Director Christy Fox at membership@nwseo.org by Tuesday, April 24 to ensure that you receive your Elections Letter.

The Elections Letter details the procedures to nominate and participate in local NWSEO elections for branch offices.
Information for the 2018 National Convention is included in the Elections Letter. All NWSEO members are invited to attend the convention. The 43th Annual NWSEO National Convention will take place on Sunday-Monday, September 30 and October 1, 2018 at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Any NWSEO member who recruits two or more new members to join NWSEO using the1187 form for payroll deduction (not by credit card) from August 1, 2017 to July 31, 2018, NWSEO will provide airfare (within reason), 3-nights lodging, and group meals for the 2018 NWSEO National Convention.

Review Recruitment Travel Incentives for NWSEO Members https://nwseo.org/Recruitment.php.

Information on preparations for the NWSEO Convention and elections will be posted on https://nwseo.org/convention.php

42nd Annual Convention Saint Petersburg, Florida 2017

41st Annual Convention Salt Lake City, Utah 2016

40th Annual Convention Alexandria, Virginia 2015

40th Annual National Convention
Hilton Alexandria Old Town
Alexandria, Virginia
September 26 & 27, 2015

Call to order, number of attendees, parliamentarian

NWSEO President Dan Sobien called the 40th annual convention to order at 8:00 am on September 26, 2015. There were approximately 80 people in attendance.

Minutes of 39th National Convention

Secretary Treasurer David Solano presented the minutes of the 39th National Convention. Reading of the minutes was waived on unanimous vote and the minutes were accepted as written. Once the minutes were accepted, Dave signed a copy.

NWSEO Executive Vice President Bill Hopkins provided an annual review of the work of NWSEO.‪ Vice President Hopkins discussed the numerous Union grievances, hiring freeze, CBA negotiations, hundreds of NWS vacancies still not being filled, the issues at WFMO and the recent Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey.

Secretary Treasurer Financial Report and Review of 2016 Budget

NWSEO Secretary Treasurer David Solano gave a detailed overview highlighting NWSEO's finances in checking, savings and investments. NWSEO investments has increased by just over 31% since 2013. NWSEO total assets (checking, savings plus investments) increased by 38%. The labor Organization report (LM2) has been filed with the Department of Labor along with the federal tax return (form 990), Certification of the NWSEO (LM5) and Federal Election Committee (FEC Form 3X) have been submitted.
David then reviewed the proposed 2016 budget line by line with the attendees. After review of the 2016 budget, David answered questions from the floor. David reminded those at the convention that the budget is a planning document, presenting best estimates for income and expense categories, and should be reasonable but cannot predict to the penny. A motion was made to accept the NWSEO 2016 budget and was second. The 2016 budget passed on a unanimous voice vote.

2015 Legislative Report

Appropriations – The House Appropriations added $4 million over the President’s request for NWS operations, but cut the rest of NOAA operations by ≈ 11 percent below request, and cut NOAA Corporate Services by $11 million below request. The Senate Appropriations Committee added $10 million over President’s request for NWS operations, but cut rest of NOAA operations by 7.5 percent below request, and cut NOAA Corporate Services by $4 million below request. (Full Senate has not yet voted on CJS appropriations). The House, Senate Appropriations Committee rejected the proposal to eliminate ITOs for 4th year in a row.

Senator Mazie Hirono

Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) was the keynote speaker at the NWSEO National Convention in Alexandria, VA on Saturday, September 26th. Senator Hirono is a strong supporter of NWSEO and has worked closely with our professional organization since her election to the U.S. Senate in 2012.

“We are honored to have Senator Hirono as our keynote speaker,” said NWSEO President Dan Sobien. “She consistently demonstrates her commitment to the dedicated employees of the National Weather Service. Time and again, Senator Hirono stresses the importance of accurate weather forecasting and emergency preparedness to keep people safe in severe weather.”
Senator Hirono co-hosts the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee’s quarterly meeting for union legislative representatives, which is regularly attended by NWSEO’s Legislative Director. Senator Hirono is a co-sponsor of the “Federal Adjustment to Income Rates Act” which would provide a 3.8 percent pay raise for Federal employees in 2016.

Senator Hirono thanked Dan Sobien for inviting her to speak to the NWSEO Members in attendance. The Senator thanked everyone in attendance for the work the men and women do to protect life and property. She complimented NWSEO for keeping the issues facing the NWS on the forefront in Congress.

The Senator serves in 5 Committees and focuses on middle class families, children, seniors and unions. She is proud of her 100% rating from the AFLCIO and told everyone in attendance that “we CANNOT balance the budget on the backs of federal employees.” Dave Solano asked the Senator for her assistance by working with both sides of the aisle to fund and fill the nearly 600 vacant NWS positions in the NWS.

Senator Mazie Hirono with NWSEO President Dan Sobien (above)

NWSEO Pacific Region Chair Chris Jacobson, Senator Hirono, and NWSEO Pacific Region Vice Chair Nathan Becker

Credentials Committee Report

Delyne Kirkham and Scott Prosise from the Credentials Committee reported to the convention attendees. The Credentials Committee reviewed each region’s delegates and the number of members each delegate represents. This information ensures that each member’s vote gets counted. The review account is an opportunity for all delegates to correct any discrepancies. There were a total of 1,428 delegate votes at the 2015 convention. A motion was made on the floor to accept the delegate votes and passed on a unanimous voice vote.

NWSEO Political Action Committee (PAC)

NWSEO General Counsel Richard Hirn discussed the support NWSEO receives from key members of Congress. NWSEO PAC funds help NWSEO to lobby to save critical NWS jobs, improve NWS employee working conditions and make for a more effective NWS. Our strategy of contributing to Republican and Democrat has been useful. This effort is most effective when all members contribute. . If you would like to donate to the PAC fund please use this link or mail NWSEO PAC Donations to NWSEO PAC, 601 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, N.W., SUITE 900, WASHINGTON, DC 20004 (Checks should be made out to NWSEO PAC.) NWSEO is appreciative of all members who contribute to the PAC.

NWSEO cannot use union funds for political campaigns. NWSEO has a PAC fund which can be used for political campaigns. Money contributed to PAC fund is extremely important.

Remember: DO NOT solicit members to contribute to the NWSEO PAC at work.

NWS Director Dr. Louis Uccellini

Print copy with Q & A Session

The National Weather Service Director Dr. Uccellini addressed the NWSEO Convention. Dr. Uccellini thanked NWSEO for inviting him to the annual convention. He thanked the NWSEO leadership for their time, commitment and dedication to represent the NWS bargaining unit employees. Dr. Uccellini recognized that our labor management relationship is under a lot of stress. He does believe we need to work together in a collaborative manner. He talked about past partnerships with NWSEO and accomplishments made through synergy teams. He also talked about the strong support for the NWS from both the Congress and Senate.

Dr. Uccellini spoke about the dedication of the National Weather Service employees and thanked members for their participation in the recent Organization Health Index (OHI) survey. Results of this survey show the dedication you have for your life’s work is “off the charts.”

Dr. Uccellini also recognized that the workforce analysis data shows that “today’s challenge is employees’ lack of trust in senior management at the local, regional and especially national levels” of the NWS. He recognized the disconnect between NWS HQ and the field. Dr. Uccellini believes that some of this started in 2011 from the NWS fiscal mismanagement. He said that the lack of transparency and communication compounded this distrust (even amongst the leadership team) and noted that management needs to be more inclusive.

The NWS Director said the leadership has listened to NWS employees by improving:

Bandwidth Improvements for 121 out of 122 WFOs
Travel funds
Training (funding increased from $880,000 to $7,000,000/yr today)
Vacancies – Dr. Uccellini said the NWS is listening and making progress but not enough to satisfy him or NWSEO. There are weaknesses in the hiring process and hired a new WFMO Director has been hired.

Dr. Uccellini talked about his hopes to work towards better collaboration. He expressed an understanding of the high number of vacancies as a top concern. He also recognized the lack of money and time for professional development and stated that he is making professional development is a top priority.

Dr. Uccellini also spoke about the National Academy of Science report “Second to None” and the National Academy of Public Administration report “Forecasting For the Future: Assuring the Capacity of the National Weather Service.“ He said the reports questioned the staffing profile across the current field structure, and clearly pointed to the need for change. But there was no agreement on what to change, how to change, and how fast to change. As successful as the MAR was,Uccellini says the NWS cannot do business the same way it did 20 years ago. Dr. Uccellini said that implementing solutions will take time. He told the convention that the path to Organization Workforce Analysis was not set in stone. He stated, “No plans to restructure or downsize the NWS” and said the OWA is an ongoing analysis.

The OHI survey also reaffirmed a poor view of NWS leadership and said there are clear disconnects and a lack of trust between management and those of you working in the field. He recognized that the NWS leadership has to do a better job communicating - not just from the top down, but from the bottom up and across the organization.

Dr. Uccellini also said that he sees an increasing value in WFOs, RFCs, CWSUs and NCEP Services Centers serving as service outlets for all of NOAA, further strengthening the value of and need for our services. The NWS Director said, " As we move into the future, we need to create a more flexible organization, better equipped to serve decision makers when extreme atmospheric, land, ocean, ice, and even space weather events threaten our nation. But the truth is, the future is not crystal clear. We have a roadmap and a direction, but the picture of the exact end state is not clear because we have not invented it yet, even as we evolve while embracing IDSS. This is an uncomfortable position to be in. Instead of concrete answers, what we have are interests and outcomes we want to achieve."

Dr. Uccellini finished by saying there are many strategic opportunities embedded in this call for a more collaborative approach between management and NWSEO. He stated, “ I am committed to working with you, with NWSEO, to create our desired future together, to serve the most dedicated workforce in any government organization, and to make the NWS second to none.”

Dr. Uccellini's Question and Answer Session with Membership

The speech was followed by a Question and Answer session. Dr. Uccellini stayed for more than an hour fielding tough questions from NWSEO members.

Bill Hopkins asked Louis directly if there were plans to downsize the NWS workforce or close offices. Louis paused, then replied, “There are no plans to restructure or downsize the National Weather Service. [sic] I do not have a file, I do not have a piece of paper that says what the end state will look like.”

In response to the question of what NWSEO management can do to improve relations with agency management, Louis deferred in favor of turning it back on the agency, “We in the management realm have to take a step up in terms of inclusiveness.”

NWSEO President Dan Sobien and Headquarters Region Chair Steve Pritchett both asked Dr. Uccellini why the National Weather Service felt compelled to drop the employee Health Club and Wellness Program. Dan Sobien cited the elaborate fitness center at NCEP as a positive benefit to employees at that facility and noted that the Health and Wellness Program was a positive benefit to all employees. Dr. Uccellini told the men that the decision to remove this benefit was out of his hands.

In response to a question about the constant battle to keep ITOs in WFOs, “We are working a modified approach currently through the executive branch” to find a longer-term solution to the ITO problem, but “if it does pass in its current form on the Hill, then we have to do what the law requires.”

There was much discussion regarding NWS understaff ongoing vacancy problems in the NWS. Louis says that, “The hiring process is broken, clearly, and we need to get it back on track.” NWSEO Pacific Region Chair Chris Jacobson noted that there are currently more than 500 positions vacant. Dr. Uccellini disagreed, stating there are fewer than 300 appropriated vacancies and noted that NWSEO should not assume that all FTEs in field offices are appropriated. “The appropriations law trumps everything. With regards to all of these other things, that’s all I can say.” NWSEO General Counsel Richard Hirn informed the group that there is no cap on FTEs in the law and that an agency can hire as many FTEs as they can fund. The important issue is that the number of vacant positions that were previously filled is approaching 600.

There was a discussion involving both Dr. Uccellini and NOAA Chief of Staff Renee Stone regarding the barrage of requests by management for non-disclosure agreements in NWSEO discussions. Essentially NOAA/NWS feel that they need these agreements because they can’t risk speaking candidly with NWSEO and then having their statements leaked in the press. NWSEO leadership cannot and will not sign those agreements because of their inherent obligation to share information with their members.

NWSEO Election Results

NWSEO President - Dan Sobien

NWSEO Vice President - Bill Hopkins

NWSEO Secretary-Treasurer - Dave Solano

Convention Banquet

Robert Ebaugh and Scott Prosise were recognized for their long term service and dedication to NWSEO. Both men will be retiring this year.

Congratulations to Mitch MacDonald and John Werner – Recipients of the NWSEO 2015 Kip Robinson Award
Congratulations to Mitch MacDonald and John Werner, this year’s honored recipients of the NWSEO Kip Robinson Award. This annual NWSEO award is given in recognition of members volunteering their time and talents to make NWSEO a stronger union.
The Kip Robinson Award is named after a late lobbyist who worked diligently for NWSEO. Past winners include Chris Jacobson, Bill Proenza, Bill Hirt, John Stansfield, and Barry Hirshorn, Chis Sisko, DeLyne Kirkham, Steve Pritchett, Shannon White, David Marsalek, and Steve Wannebo.

Mitch MacDonald receiving the Kip Robinson Award from NWSEO President Dan Sobien

John Werner receiving the Kip Robinson Award from NWSEO President Dan Sobien

Sunday, September 27, 2015

NWSEO Communications, Membership and Recruitment
NWSEO: 40 Years Strong – Lisa Luciani

PowerPoint Presentation

NWSEO Communications Director Lisa Luciani presented a report on Communications. NWSEO members are key to all communications efforts. Success depends on steward and member involvement to communicate the challenges and issues in their office. This communication helps the National Council, General Counsel Richard Hirn and Lisa to better understand the challenges offices face and to strategically tailor messages to reach Congress, NOAA and NWS leadership, journalists and the public. Lisa thanked members for their assistance on all NWSEO communications efforts.
This includes:

Responding to NWSEO email surveys
Responding to NWSEO media requests
Members using the NWSEO Facebook Group to inform each other about how challenges are met in their office.

NWSEO Communications/Media Relations is strategic and targeted. NWSEO has developed strong relationships with members of Congress, Emergency Managers, and journalists in key media markets. Our goal is to distribute accurate information for both local and national communications efforts. Please keep in mind, if a news release is distributed on a national level, it represents information provided from stewards nationally. If the information in your office does not clearly reflect on the news release and you have a request for a media interview, please contact Lisa at mediarelations@nwseo.org so that we can work together to provide the reporter with accurate information for what is happening locally without diluting the key messages of the strategic communications efforts.

Lisa highlighted the relationship between NWSEO and journalists at the TODAY Show, Washington Post, Greenwire Communications in DC, and the Philadelphia Inquirer. She highlighted news stories focused on the high number of vacancies across the NWS.

NOAA Attorneys Guild 2015 Update - Mitch MacDonald

We’re a small bargaining unit representing approximately 70 attorneys. We provide legal advice to NOAA on the “wet side” involving fisheries, marine mammals and endangered species protection, habitat protection, and oil spill restoration. While we are small, we are a strong bargaining unit with close to an 80% membership rate

Our relationship with management is not perfect, but it is mostly positive. We’re wary of WFMO, but very comfortable with our management representatives. Management has been seeking to engage in pre-decisional involvement. We’ve worked on Pilot Projects on hiring, and they’re seeking to involve us with the Department’s Telework Implementation Plan. It’s been a slow year that saw only one issue to resolve, but that was successful. Otherwise, I am personally extremely thankful for the advocacy, support, and strength that comes from the Union.

NWS Vacancies and Understaffed Offices

Pacific Region Chair Chris Jacobson provided statistics on the high number of vacancies in the NWS. Only ten of the NWS 122 WFOs are fully staffed. Projecting the future attrition and new hire rates over the past year, it would take 20 years to fill all of the existing vacancies.The NWS is pushing a 15 percent vacancy rate with no progress in lowering this rate since January 2015. This PowerPoint presentation shows the vacancy trends over the past year with vivid details of current vacancies by offices and by position. NWSEO highly encourages you to view it.

Here is the link to the spreadsheet that we are counting on NWSEO members to help us update. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/lv…

Election Procedures Change

One Person One Vote – James (Jim) Brader Alaska Region Chair

Jim Brader reported to convention attendees on the finding from the one person – one vote committee which was formed at the 2014 convention. The methods of voting had to be accepted by the Department of Labor (DOL) and cost effective. Everyone will have a say. Online voting is not approved by the DOL. Contractor conducted paper ballots for each election would add ~$3-5k each year above current costs (2 additional mailings and $1-2k contractor fee).

A motion was made on the floor to realign the dates for national and regional officer elections so that all elections can be held by direct vote (one person – one vote) at the local level. The motion passed unanimously. The Constitution Committee will begin work to make all necessary changes to the NWSEO Constitution. Elections are every two years so the cost will need to be budgeted.

To summarize what the Convention vote:

2016 - Regional Chair elections under current delegate voting system, elected Chairs to serve one year term.
2017 -Regional Chair elections under the new one person - one vote system, elected Chairs to serve two year term.
2018 - No Regional or National elections.
2019 - Regional Chair and National Officer Elections under the new one person - one vote system.

The Honorable Don Beyer (R-VA)

Congressman Beyer spoke to the NWSEO members at the convention. Representative Beyer is a ranking member of the House Sciences Subcommittee for Oversight. The Congressman is a friend of National Weather Service employees and federal employees. He introduced a bill which would give federal employees a 3.8% raise to make up for all the pay freezes. The Congressman is a co-sponsor of the family pay parental leave act which will allow 6 weeks of parental leave (mother and father) for birth, adoption or fostering a child. The USA is one of two developed countries in the WORLD that don’t have paid parental leave.

The Congressman is aware that grievances, unfair labor practices and arbitrations with the NWS management is at an all-time high. Despite full funding for the NWS staff has been cut by more than 10 percent in the past few years.

He also asked the GAO to investigate the understaffing issues within the NWS. The Congressman reported the GAO has agreed to do it. Also the Congressman is concerned about the thousands of off the books civil servant “Contractors” right now in the NWS and these are more expensive than having traditional civil servants.

The congressman is very much concerned about the number of vacancies and the discrepancies. The NWS Director said there are only 292 budgeted vacant positions in the NWS while both the McKinsey report and NWSEO each report nearly 600 vacant positions. The Congressman said he look into this discrepancy and will stay on top of this issue.

Collective Bargaining Agreement Renegotiations

NWSEO CBA Negotiations Team presented the attached PowerPoint and discussed strategies and progress. Their Mission Statement is to craft the best Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) possible. CBA Negotiation Team PowerPoint

2015 NWSEO Committees

NWSEO President Dan appointed the following committees with input from the National Convention attendees:
Constitution – Chris Jacobson – Chair and Delyne Kirkham, Lauren Smoker, Brooke Bingaman, Ken Kleeschulte
Resolutions - Jim Brader, Chair, Barry Hirshorn
Finance - David Solano, Chair; Martin Lee, Steve Pritchett
Legislative, Public Affairs and Recruiting - Sven Nelaimischkies, Chair, Barry Hirshorn, Doug McDonnel, Jim Lee – Ex Officio Lisa Luciani
Health and Safety - Steve Pritchett, Martin Lee Chair, Laura Kasper, Suzanne Sims, , Jason Wright
Credentials –Kevin Durfee, Delyne Kirkham-Chair; Martin Lee, Jeanne Allen
Convention Set up/ Election Letter – Mitch MacDonald, Bill Hopkins, JoAnn Becker, and Mike Dion, Ex Officio Lisa Luciani
Quality of Work Life - Jason Wright, chair; Barry Hirshorn, Delyne Kirkham, Gina Tillis-Nash, Muthuvel Chelliah
NWSEO Directives Lead - Barry Hirshorn (Chair) and Jim Brader, Muthuvel Chelliah
National Consultation Rights - NWSEO gets consultation rights from DOC & NOAA then the NWS sends us proposals to negotiate. Mitch MacDonald has agreed to do the consultation rights. Bill Hopkins
Diversity Team - Amy Seeley, Ed Shimon, Jason Wright (Chair)
NWSEO Facebook Group – Jerome Jacques, Robert Ruehl, and Jim Sieveking
Elections Procedures – Jim Brader (Chair), Amy Fritz, Delyne Kirkham, Kevin Durfee

2016 NWSEO Convention Plans

NWSEO Convention approved Salt Lake City for the 2016 annual National Convention. NWSEO is negotiating room rates. The dates will be in late September or early October 2016.

2016 Recruitment Incentive

The following recruitment incentive was passed at the convention. Any member who recruits two or more new members to join NWSEO using the 1187 for payroll deduction (not by credit card) from August 1, 2015 to July 31, 2016, NWSEO will provide airfare, 3-nights lodging, and group meals for the 2015 convention. The name of the recruiter must be on the submitted 1187 in order to receive recruitment credit.

News, Agenda, and Election Preparations for the 2015 Convention

2015 Steward Training

(September 25, 2015) NWSEO would like to thank the stewards who attended the 2014 Steward Training session on Friday, September 25. NWSEO General Counsel Richard Hirn leads the training and provides in-depth information to assist the stewards in their role.

39th Annual Convention Kansas City, Missouri 2014

The 39th Annual
NWSEO National Convention News

(October 26, 2014) Keep on top of convention news from the Kansas City Marriott on the Convention News page. Today's guest speakers include NOAA Deputy Under Secretary Vice Admiral Devany and Dr. Joe Friday, former Director of the National Weather Service. Members can follow us on NWSEO Facebook and Twitter too.

NWSEO President Dan Sobien called the 39th annual convention to order. Minutes from the 2013 convention were approved. NWSEO General Counsel Richard Hirn was appointed parliamentarian. Executive Vice President Bill Hopkins provided an annual review of the work of NWSEO.

NWSEO Secretary Treasurer David Solano is presented the NWSEO Financial Report. He reviewed the proposed 2015 budget line by line with the attendees. After review of the 2015 budget, David answered questions from the floor. David reminded those at the convention that the budget is a planning document, presenting best estimates for income and expense categories, and should be reasonable but cannot predict to the penny. A motion was made to accept the NWSEO 2015 budget and was second. The 2015 budget passed on a unanimous voice vote.

The afternoon sessions include presentations from invited guests:

Vice Admiral (VADM) Michael S. Devany, NOAA, serves as the Deputy Under Secretary for Operations at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). As NOAA’s chief operating officer, he is responsible for the day-to-day management of NOAA’s national and international operations for oceanic and atmospheric services, research, and coastal and marine stewardship. He is a key advisor to the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere/NOAA Administrator on NOAA program and policy issues.

Dr. Joseph Friday former Director of the National Weather Service (1989-1995) provided a historical perspective of his work with the NWS under different administrations and during NWS Modernization.

NCEP Executive Officer Dennis Staley
NCEP's Executive Officer, Dennis Staley presented an overview of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction. He highlighted NCEP's recent accomplishments over the past several years, key activities planned in FY15 and their key strategic areas over the next five years. He also talked about NCEP's role in the Weather Ready Nation impact-based decision support services era and the NWS integrated field structure. His PowerPoint presentation is available for you viewing.

Credentials Committee
DeLyne Kirkham provided the Credentials Committee report.

Elections
There were contested elections in Central Region and Pacific Region. Candidates in the other regions ran unopposed. NWSEO would Regional election results for Chair and Vice Chair are:

Alaska Region
Chairperson – Jim Brader
Vice Chair-Phil Dutton

Central Region
Chairperson – Jim Sieveking
Vice Chair – Kelsey Angle

Eastern Region
Regional Chairperson - David Solano
Vice Chairperson - Matt Steinbugl

Headquarters Region
Chairperson - Steven Pritchett
Vice Chairperson – Amy Fritz

NCEP Region
Chairperson - JoAnn Becker
Vice Chairperson – Suru Saha

NESDIS Region
Chairperson – Hugh Sharkey
Vice Chairperson – Kevin Turner

NOAA Attorney's Guild
Chairperson – Mitch MacDonald
Vice Chairperson - Lauren Smoker

Pacific Region
Chairperson – Chris Jacobson
Vice Chairperson – Nathan Becker

Southern Region
Chairperson – John Werner
Vice Chairperson - Mark Wilson

Western Region
Chairperson – Suzanne Sims
Vice Chairperson- Robert Ruehl

NWSEO thanks you for your commitment and service to the union. We would also like to express our appreciation to Martin Lee and Barry Hirshorn for their years of service as NWSEO Regional Chairs and Mike Dion and Pete Donaldson for their years of service as Vice Chairs.

News from the Convention Banquet on Sunday evening:

Congratulations to Chris Jacobson – Recipient of the NWSEO Kip Robinson Award
Congratulations to Chris Jacobson, this year’s honored recipient of the NWSEO Kip Robinson Award. This annual NWSEO award is given in recognition of members volunteering their time and talents to make NWSEO a stronger union. Chris is recognized for creating and maintaining a detailed spreadsheet of vacancies in the NWS. His work has been instrumental in NWSEO’s work to inform the media, Congress, and key decision makers about this critical issue.
The Kip Robinson Award is named after a late lobbyist who worked diligently for NWSEO. Past winners include Bill Proenza, Bill Hirt, John Stansfield, and Barry Hirshorn, Chis Sisko, DeLyne Kirkham, Steve Pritchett, Shannon White, David Marsalek, and Steve Wannebo.

Peter Nuhn, NWSEO Director of Membership Services is retiring at the end of 2014. Peter was recognized for 27 years of dedicated service to our professional organization and his work as treasurer of the NWSEO Political Action Committee (PAC).

Monday, October 27, 2014

The water mission of the NWS needs to expand into water resources. Water is an opportunity and growth area for the NWS. NWSEO Eastern Region Chair Dave Solano gave a presentation on the National Water Center - past, present and future. He explained the development of the original plan for the NWS.

The nation’s need for water includes energy, infrastructure, commerce, travel, food, recreation, health, and more. The NWS needs to deliver services that addresses the “water gaps” such as gridded water information for river/stream forecasts, levee & dam breaks, and coupled modeling “Summit to the Sea” forecasts. RFCs should evolveinto regional Water Resource Centers by operating new advanced models and decision support tools to produce new water resources products and services.
The new NWC will be a geographically distributed program which includes elements in Maryland, Minnesota, and Alabama. The NWC will collaborate with RFCs and field offices and operate high resolution hydrologic models help address water gaps. Functional components include:

Operations Center - a comprehensive suite of national scale high-resolution water resources analysis and forecast guidance products (WPC),
Proving Ground - RFC test bed to support development and testing, RFC service backup, and faster water forecasting research to operations,
Archive Facility - central archival of key water resources data, products and services,
Integrated Information Service
- provides shared data services and common operating picture for water resources,
- serves as a first line responder for all queries from WFOs and RFCs related to the data and application software used in the development and provision of river, flood, and water resources forecasts,
- develops stakeholder contacts and establishes more detailed user requirements for water resources services, develops policy, prioritizes development, and increases the focus on economic decision support.

Dave also presented his vision for WFO and RFC water future that could be achieved in the next two years.

NWSEO Director of Membership Services Peter Nuhn provided a report on membership. Due to the high number of retirements among bargaining unit career employees, the success of NWSEO depends on recruitment of new members. Recruitment support and ideas are available at https://nwseo.org/Recruitment.php.

Responding to NWSEO email surveys
Responding to NWSEO media requests
Members using the NWSEO Facebook Group to inform each other about how challenges are met in their office.

Lisa highlighted how communications with NWSEO members helped her to secure a story with Investigative Reporter Scott Friedman in Dallas that also aired on the NBC TODAY Show in May. This national story sparked interest in many media markets across the country and many NWSEO members participated in interviews with their local media.

Jason B. Wright, NWSEO steward and senior forecaster at the Nashville Weather Forecast Office, proposed a NWS/NWSEO Mental Health Awareness Initiative. The NWSEO negotiated health club membership dues rebate, established in 2009, demonstrates NWSEO/NWS’s recognition of the benefits of physical exercise as a critical factor to maintaining good overall health. Mental health also needs to be addressed as a factor to the health and well-being of NOAA/NWS employees.
NWS staffs, especially employees at weather forecast offices, are under increasingly under more stress due to staffing shortages, fluctuating budget situations, rotational shift work demands/ associated family impact. A direct focus towards a single resource center that would cover multiple topics associated with improving employees’ mental health awareness needed.
Jason proposes the development of a NWS/NWSEO Web Based Mental Health Awareness Resource Access Centerwhere quality rather than quantity of information could be presented. He envisions a center with the latest and best information possible, addressing wide spectrum of topics impacting mental health, including best dietary considerations. Additionally, he says the center should include emergency response resources for when person(s) from the general public call offices claiming that they are about to do bodily harm to themselves. One of the impacts of this initiative would be enhanced office moral and increased productivity with less use of sick leave. It would also ensure personal and individual privacy rights and would ensure that HIPPA rules and regulations are addressed. It was suggested that Jason work initially with Employee Personal Page (EPP) staff and/or the NWS Office of Equal Opportunity and
Diversity Management on hosting this potential web page. If you are Interested in helping out in any way with this program(open to any and all suggestions on the best way to accomplish this, including a team approach), please email: Jason.B.Wright@noaa.gov.

Shannon White presented an update on the AWIPS II deployment. AWIPS II deployment to the WFOs is going much better than this time last year. Group 4 completed their 30-day test on time, they are the first group to do so. With the next successful 30-day-only test, we will begin general deployment of AWIPS II to the WFOs. This could begin as early as January 2015. WFOs will still need to have all local apps migrated, a trained ITO on station and all forecasters trained on the variances prior to installing AWIPS II.

N-AWIPS is also undergoing migration to AWIPS II. The process is slow and several difficulties have been encountered. Currently, the last center will not fully migrate all operational capability to AWIPS II until FY17. The AWIPS contract re-compete will also be occurring between now and FY17. The team working on this is comprised of HQ, regional, field and NWSEO reps, so confidence is higher that the field's needs will be better met with this new contract.

The 2015 40th Annual NWSEO Convention will be held at Hilton Alexandria Old Town in Alexandria, Virginia on September 26 and 27, 2015 with steward training on September 25. The hotel is few metro stops from downtown Washington, DC and walking distance to dozens of restaurants in Old Town. NWSEO obtained a government rate of $119 per night. The location was agreed to by a voice vote.

The following recruitment incentive was passed at the convention. Any member who recruits two or more new members to join NWSEO using the 1187 for payroll deduction (not by credit card) from August 1, 2014 to July 31, 2015, NWSEO will provide airfare, 3-nights lodging, and group meals for the 2015 convention. The name of the recruiter must be on the submitted 1187 in order to receive recruitment credit.

NWSEO President Dan appointed the following committees with input from the National Convention attendees:
Constitution - JoAnn Becker, Chair, Delyne Kirkham, Mitch MacDonald, Brooke Bingaman
Resolutions - Jim Brader, Chair, Scott Prosise, Barry Hirshorn
Finance - David Solano, Chair; Martin Lee, Steve Pritchett
Legislative, Public Affairs and Recruiting - Tim Shy, Chair, Barry Hirshorn, Delyn Kirkham
Health and Safety - Steve Pritchett, Chair, Laura Kasper, Suzanne Sims
Credentials – Scott Prosise, Co-Chair; Kevin Durfee, Delyne Kirkham, Co-Chair; Martin Lee, Jeanne Allen
Convention Set up/ Election Letter - Bill Hopkins, JoAnn Becker, Lisa Luciani and Mike Dion
Quality of Work Life - John Werner, chair; Barry Hirshorn, Delyne Kirkham, Jason Wright, Gina Tillis-Nash
NWSEO Directives Lead - Barry Hirshorn (Chair)
National Consultation Rights - NWSEO gets consultation rights from DOC & NOAA then the NWS sends us proposals to negotiate. Mitch MacDonald has agreed to do the consultation rights.
Diversity Team - Amy Seeley, Ed Shimon, Jason Wright (Chair)
Social Media Team - Lisa Luciani, Stephanie Sullivan, Evan Bookbinder and Shannon White (Chair) and Matthew DuplantisNWSEO Facebook Group – Jerome Jacques, Robert Ruehl, and Jim Sieveking
Elections Procedures – Jim Brader (Chair), Amy Fritz, Delyne Kirkham, Kevin Durfee

The convention ended at 4:20 p.m.

2014 Steward Training

(Ocober 25, 2014) NWSEO would like to thank the stewards who attended the 2014 Steward Training session on Saturday, October 25. NWSEO General Counsel Richard Hirn leads the training and provides in-depth information to assist the stewards in their role. The names are not in order but here is a list of our Steward Training attendees. Thank you for attending this valuable session: Jim Lee, Greg Frosig, Gino Izzi, Darren Collins, Kelly Hooper, Becky Kern, Lori Schultz, Robert Bohlin, Matthew Bloemer, Rodney Nelson, Steve Silberberg, James Foster, Chris Jacobson, Paula Rychtar, Bill Gargan, Muthuvel (Muthu) Chelliah, Suru Saha, and Ed Shimon.

Agenda for the 39th Annual NWSEO National Convention
Kansas City, MO
October 26 - 27, 2014

Agenda print copy

Sunday, October 26, 2014
Room: Grand Ballroom EFG
Morning:
7:15 – Registration
8:00 –Meeting call to order, appoint parliamentarian, call for reading of 2013 Convention minutes – NWSEO President Dan Sobien
8:15 – Address by Bill Hopkins, NWSEO Executive Vice President
8:45 – Financial Report - Dave Solano, NWSEO Secretary Treasurer
9:00 – Legislative Report - Richard Hirn, NWSEO General Counsel
10:15 – Break
10:30 – NWSEO General Counsel Richard Hirn
11:30 – PAC Report – Dan Sobien/Richard Hirn
11:45 – Credentials Committee Report

12:00 – Lunch - Seville Ballroom

Afternoon
1:00 – Vice Admiral Devany, NOAA Deputy Under Secretary
2:00 – Dr. Joe Friday, Former Director of NWS (1989-1995)
3:00 – Dennis Staley, NCEP Executive Officer
3:45 – Constitution Committee Report - JoAnn Becker
4:15 – Regional Elections
6:30 – Report of Elections at Banquet

6:30-9:00 Banquet, McCormick & Schmick’s
Located on the corner of 47th St. and Pennsylvania Ave.
448 W.47th St.
Kansas City, MO 64112
Phone: 816-531-6800

Monday, October 27
Room: Grand Ballroom EFG
Morning
8:00 – Membership Report - Peter Nuhn, NWSEO Director of Membership Services
8:30 – Media Relations Report – Lisa Luciani, NWSEO Director of Communications
9:30 – Constitution Committee Report - JoAnn Becker, Committee Chair
10:00 – HMT/MetTech/OPL issues - Dan Sobien
10:45 – Break
11:00– A2/Pilots - Shannon White, Jen McNatt, Dan Sobien

12:00 – Lunch - Seville Ballroom

Afternoon
1:00 – 2015 Convention Plans
1:30 – Dept. of Commerce Deputy Secretary Bruce Andrews
2:00 – National Water Center - Dave Solano and Steve Pritchett
2:45 – New Business
3:00 – NOAA Attorneys’ Guild Report – Mitch McDonald, NOAA Attorneys’ Guild Chair
3:15 – AOC/AOML Report
3:30 – NESDIS Report – Hugh Sharkey, NESDIS Chair
3:45 – Appoint committee members
4:00 – Adjourn convention/Break for Regional meetings

2014 Regional Chair and Vice Chair Nominations

Due October 10 - Delegate Lists are posted below the nominations

Candidates for Regional Chair are invited to provide a 200 word autobiography which is linked adjacent to their nomination.

Information on how to make a nomination for Regional Chair and/or Vice Chair.

Alaska Region

On June 2, 2014 Phil Dutton nominated James Brader for Alaska Region Chair.
On June 2, 2014 Phil Dutton nominated Phil Dutton for Alaska Region Vice Chair.

On September 3, 2014 James Brader nominated James Brader for Alaska Region Chair.
On September 3, 2014 James Brader nominated Phil Dutton for Alaska Region Vice Chair.

Central Region

On June 3, 2014 Jim Sieveking nominated Jim Sieveking for Central Region Chair. Learn more about Jim Sieveking
On June 3, 2014 Jim Sieveking nominated Kelsey Angle for Central Region Vice Chair.

On June 10, 2014 Martin Lee nominated Martin Lee for Central Region Chair. Learn more about Martin Lee
On June 10, 2014 Martin Lee nominated Gino Izzi for Central Region Vice Chair.

Eastern Region

On June 17, 2014 Barry Lambert nominated David Solano for Eastern Region Chair. Learn more about David Solano

On July 22, 2014 David Solano nominated David Solano for Eastern Region Chair.
On July 22, 2014 David Solano nominated Matthew Steinbugl for Eastern Region Vice Chair.

Headquarters Region

On October 2, 2014 Michael Dion nominated Steve Pritchett for Headquarters Region Chair.
On October 2, 2014 Michael Dion nominated Mike Dion for Headquarters Region Vice Chair.

On October 6, 2014 Amy Fritz nominated Steve Pritchett for Headquarters Region Chair.
On October 6, 2014 Amy Fritz nominated Amy Fritz for Headquarters Region Vice Chair.

NCEP Region

On August 25, 2014 JoAnn Becker nominated JoAnn Becker for NCEP Region Chair. Learn more about JoAnn Becker
On August 25, 2014 JoAnn Becker nominated Suru Saha for NCEP Region Vice Chair.

NESDIS Region

On October 5, 2014 Hugh Sharkey nominated Hugh Sharkey for NESDIS Region Chair.
On October 5, 2014 Hugh Sharkey nominated Kevin Turner for NESDIS Region Vice Chair.

NOAA Attorneys' Guild Region

On September 21, 2014 Mitch MacDonald nominated Mitch MacDonald for NOAA Attorneys' Guild Region Chair. Learn more about Mitch MacDonald
On September 21, 2014 Mitch MacDonald nominated Lauren Smoker for NOAA Attorneys' Guild Regionn Vice Chair.

Pacific Region

On September 18, 2014 Nathan Becker nominated Chris Jacobson for Pacific Region Chair. Learn more about Chris Jacobson
On September 18, 2014 Nathan Becker nominated Nathan Becker for Pacific Vice Region Chair.

On September 22, 2014 Roger Gernold nominated Barry Hirshorn for Pacific Region Chair.

On September 23, 2014 Barry Hirshorn nominated Pete Donaldson for Pacific Vice Region Chair.

On September 30, 2014 Chris Jacobson nominated Chris Jacobson for Pacific Region Chair.
On September 30, 2014 Chris Jacobson nominated Nathan Becker for Pacific Region Vice Chair.

Southern Region

On September 10, 2014 Holly Allen nominated John Werner for Southern Region Chair.
On September 10, 2014 Holly Allen nominated Mark Wilson for Southern Region Vice Chair.

On September 13, 2014 Jason Beamon nominated John Werner for Southern Region Chair.
On September 13, 2014 Jason Beamon nominated Mark Wilson for Southern Region Vice Chair.

Western Region

On September 3, 2014 Kevin Durfee nominated Suzanne Sims for Western Region Chair. Learn more about Suzanne Sims
On September 3, 2014 Kevin Durfee nominated Robert Ruehl for Western Region Vice Chair.

Delegates and Votes Per Branch Updated October 20, 2014.

Click here for more information on the role of Delegates and the voting process.

NOAA Attorney's Guild

NCEP Region

Southern Region

Western Region

NWSEO 2014 Elections – Nominations for Regional Chair and Vice Chair due October 10

September 19, 2014 print copy

(September 19, 2014) The 2014 NWSEO Elections will take place at the NWSEO National Convention in Kansas City, Missouri on October 26 and 27. This is a Sunday-Monday convention.

Names of NWSEO members who have been nominated for the positions of Regional Chairperson and Regional Vice Chairperson are posted below. According to NWSEO Election Rules, nominations for Regional Chairperson and Vice Chairperson must be submitted either in person or in writing and registered or certified mailed to NWSEO President Dan Sobien. Nominations must be received by October 10, 2014.The mailing address is:

Dan Sobien, President
National Weather Service Employees Organization
601 Pennsylvania Ave NW, South Building, Suite 900
Washington, D.C. 20004

For more information on Elections, please view the 2014 Elections Letter.

-NWSEO-

NWSEO 2014 Elections – List of Delegates and Votes per Branch

September 17 print copy

(September 17, 2014) The 2014 NWSEO Elections will take place at the NWSEO National Convention in Kansas City on October 26 and 27. This is a Sunday-Monday convention. This year, we are posting the names of the delegates from each branch on https://nwseo.org/convention.php. The delegates will attend the convention and vote on the issues on the convention agenda and participate in voting during this year’s election of NWSEO Regional Chairs and Vice Chairs.

A delegate holds one vote for each NWSEO member in the branch represented. Please review this important information and report any updates and corrections to the Credentials Committee Member identified on the list. On the lists below, you will see the number of votes available at the branch the delegate who represents it. Please keep in mind that the delegate may not cast all of the available votes because any NWSEO member who attends the convention is entitled to cast their own vote (thus reducing the number of votes that the delegate will cast).

If a delegate cannot attend the convention, the alternate delegate will cast the designated votes for the branch.

The annual convention is open to all NWSEO members. You are encouraged to attend, participate in discussions, and vote. If you attend the convention and are not a delegate you will cast your own vote and the delegate for your branch will have one less vote to cast on behalf of your branch. For more information on the NWSEO elections and the National Convention, please read the NWSEO Elections Letter.

-NWSEO-

2014 NWSEO Election Letter and Convention Details

2014 Election Letter

May 29, 2014 Four Winds printable copy

(May 29, 2014) The 2014 Election Letter is in the mailto NWSEO members. As an added convenience, the letter is also posted here. The Elections Letter details the procedures to nominate NWSEO members for NWSEO offices and to participate in elections for local offices. This year, there will be elections for Regional Chair and Regional Vice Chair, as well as Branch Steward and Vice Steward, Delegate and Alternate Delegate.

Information for the 2014 National Convention is included in the Elections Letter. All NWSEO members are invited to attend. This year, the 39th annual NWSEO Convention is in Kansas City, Missouri on Sunday and Monday, October 26 - 27, 2014. The convention takes place at the Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza.

If you plan to attend the convention, you are responsible for making your reservations. We have successfully negotiated a room rate starting at $106 per night plus taxes and $1.74 city room fee. The rate includes complimentary self-parking and wireless guestroom internet. Room reservations must be made by September 27, 2014. They can be booked directly with Marriott by calling 800-810-3708. Please mention that you are an NWSEO member and attending the convention in order to get the negotiated room rate. If you prefer to make your reservations online, please visit: Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza Group Rate NWSEO.

New Steward Training session for new stewards will be held on Saturday, October 25 from 1 – 5 p.m. Due to limited space, this training is for invited new stewards only. If you are a newly elected steward after the 2014 election and would like to attend the training, please let your Regional Chair know before September 1. A request for this training is the first step to get a training invitation, it is not a guarantee.

-NWSEO-

The NWSEO 39th Annual National Convention
Kansas City, Missouri is October 26 - 27, 2014

(A Sunday-Monday Event)
March 13 printable copy

(March 13, 2014) The 2014 NWSEO National Convention is in Kansas City, Missouri on Sunday and Monday, October 26 - 27, 2014. The convention takes place at the Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza..Steward training for invited new stewards only will be on Saturday, October 25 from 1 – 5 p.m.

Remember, because your recruitment efforts strengthen our professional organization, NWSEO will provide reasonable airfare*, lodging, and group meals for the 2014 convention to any member who recruits two new members to join NWSEO using the 1187 standard form for payroll deduction from September 24, 2013 to July 30, 2014. To help with your recruitment efforts the $100 dues rebate has been extended until October 2014. IMPORTANT: The name of the recruiter must be written on the 1187 form.

NWSEO will keep you informed about convention plans in the coming months. Updates will be available on https://nwseo.org/convention.php. We hope to see you at the convention!

*In order for airfare to be reimbursed, you must be able to provide documentation that it is the lowest available rate. Printed copies of airfares from Expedia or other travel sites will serve as documentation.

38th Annual Convention St. Petersburg, Florida 2013

Agenda for the NWSEO 38th Annual National Convention

38th CONVENTION
Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club
St. Petersburg, Florida
September 22 & 23, 2013

AGENDA

Please dress in business attire for the Sunday session.

Sunday, September 22
Room: Plaza Ballroom

Morning:
7:15 – Registration
7:45 – Morning Weather Briefing by WFO Ruskin, Dan Noah
8:00 – Dan Sobien, President NWSEO, Call meeting to order, appoint parliamentarian, call for reading of 2012 Convention minutes.
8:15 – Bill Hopkins, Executive Vice President, NWSEO
8:45 – Dave Solano, Secretary Treasurer
9:00 – Richard Hirn, General Council, NWSEO
10:15 – Break
10:30 – Richard Hirn, General Council, NWSEO
11:45 – Credentials Committee Report

12:00 – Lunch Fred’s Bar/Patio

Afternoon
1:00 – Keynote – Senator Mark Begich
1:30 – Dan Sobien, NAPA Study, PAC discussion
2:15 – Constitution Committee Report, JoAnn Becker
2:45 – Break
3:00 – Director Media Relations, Lisa Luciani,
3:45 – Discussion on Pilots, LaMarre, Graham, Strager
5:30 – Break for Day

6:30-9:00 Banquet, Beach Seafood & Tap House
(Menu includes choice of seafood, steak and chicken)

Monday, September 23
Room: Plaza Ballroom
Morning
7:45 – Morning Weather Briefing by WFO Ruskin, Dan Noah
8:00 – Constitution changes, JoAnn, Dan, Peter
8:30 – Director of Membership NWSEO Report, Peter Nuhn
9:00 – NAG Report, Smoker
9:15 – AOC/AOML Report,
9:30 – NESDIS Report, Sharkey
9:45 – 2014 Convention
10:00 – Appoint committee members
10:15 – AWIPS2 status report, Shannon White
11:00 – Break for Regional meetings

12:00 – Lunch Fred’s Bar/Patio

1:00 – New Business
1:45 – Hugh Sharkey, DOC travel policy and long term TDY

Senate Commerce Subcommittee Chair to
Keynote NWSEO Convention

September 13, 2013 print copy

(September 13, 2013) Senator Mark Begich of Alaska, Chairman of the Oceans, Atmosphere and Fisheries Subcommittee of the Senate Commerce Committee, will deliver the Keynote Address at NWSEO’s Annual Convention in St. Petersburg, FL on Sunday, September 22. Senator Begich’s Subcommittee has jurisdiction over NOAA and the NWS.

Senator Mark Begich is in his fifth year representing Alaska in the U.S. Senate and has risen to key positions for Alaska. He was recently named to the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, remains on the Veterans Affairs, Homeland Security, and Commerce committees and retains chairmanship of the Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and Coast Guard. Begich was also appointed as chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Intergovernmental Affairs where he will have unique authority to oversee disaster relief, response, recovery, and preparation.

Senator Begich was elected to the Senate in 2008 after serving as mayor of Anchorage for nearly six years. In 1988, at age 26, Mark was the youngest person ever elected to the Anchorage Assembly where he served for nearly 10 years. During that time, his colleagues three times elected him chairman, Anchorage's second highest political office, and he also served as chair of the budget committee. During his time as mayor, Anchorage went through the largest building boom in a generation, attracting millions of dollars’ worth of public and private investment.

Senator Begich has been a strong supporter of NOAA and NWSEO. Last year, he held hearings on ways to improve weather forecasting. During this year’s Commerce Committee’s hearing on the confirmation of Commerce Secretary Pritzker, Senator Begich urged her to cancel the planned furlough of NOAA employees and reexamine the hiring freeze at the NWS:

“Since 2010, the National Weather Service has lost about 300 positions, about 6%. Actually, in the Presidents fiscal year 14 budget he eliminates another 103 positions in forecast offices, for about 8%. There’s a hiring freeze in place. I can tell you in Alaska this is now creating some problems. We are in flood season and have severe issues occurring already. We are about to hit fire season in many parts of the country. In Alaska, we are missing entire shifts worth of people. Now they are bringing people in on overtime. You know running a business when you start doing overtime there are a lot of costs – fatigue and other costs that are hard to measure until something bad happens, and then you realize they were working too many hours or the fatigue occurred. Can I get a commitment from you that you will reexamine the decision of the hiring freeze and how they are handling furloughs in the Weather Service? To me - I’ve run businesses – I’ve run a city – and this is not the best way to do it. It’s going to have a negative impact on the outcome, the product, in situations like Oklahoma or Sandy or otherwise.” –Senator Mark Begich

Audio Link of Senator Begich as he questions Secretary nominee Penny Pritizker on the proposed furloughs and hiring freeze is at 1:48

-NWSEO-

NWSEO 38th Annual Convention - Alternate Hotel Rooms

Convention Dates: Sunday-Monday, September 22-23, 2013

(August 23, 2013) Rooms for the NWSEO Convention at the Vinoy Renaissance Hotel in St. Petersburg, Fla. are completely booked at our group rate. If you are planning to attend the convention and can not get the NWSEO negotiated rate of $93 a night plus tax there, you can try one these two nearby hotels. Both of them are offering the government rate.Convention registration starts at 7:15 a.m. on Sunday morning.

Hilton - http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/hilton-st-petersburg-bayfront-SPTSHHF/index.html

Marriott Courtyard - http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpasd-courtyard-st-petersburg-downtown/

August 23 – Final Day to Make Room Reservations for the
38th Annual NWSEO Convention

Convention Dates: Sunday-Monday, September 22-23, 2013

August 21, 2013 print copy

(August 21, 2013) If you are planning to attend the 38th Annual NWSEO Convention is in St. Petersburg, Florida, please note that August 23 is the final day to make room reservations at the NWSEO negotiated rate. The convention takes place on Sunday and Monday, September 22-23, 2013 at the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club.

We have successfully negotiated a single/double room rate starting at $93 per night plus 12% tax. Room reservations must be made by August 23, 2013. If you plan to attend the convention, you are responsible for making your reservations. They can be booked directly with Marriott reservations by calling 1 (800) 468-3571 or (727) 894-1000. Please mention that you are a member of NWSEO and attending the convention in order to get the negotiated room rate. If you prefer to make your reservations online, please visit: https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb.do?mode=welcome_ei_new&eventID=10564729.
We hope to see you in St. Pete – September 22 and 23, 2013.

-NWSEO-

Make Reservations for the 38th Annual NWSEO Convention in St. Petersburg, Florida

Convention Dates: Sunday-Monday, September 22-23, 2013
Reservations must be made by August 23, 2013

August 8, 2013 print copy

(August 8, 2013) Have you made your reservations yet? The 38th Annual NWSEO Convention is in St. Petersburg, Florida on Sunday and Monday, September 22-23, 2013. The convention takes place at the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club.
We have successfully negotiated a single/double room rate starting at $93 per night plus 12% tax. Room reservations must be made by August 23, 2013. If you plan to attend the convention, you are responsible for making your reservations. They can be booked directly with Marriott reservations by calling 1 (800) 468-3571 or (727) 894-1000. Please mention that you are a member of NWSEO and attending the convention in order to get the negotiated room rate. If you prefer to make your reservations online, please visit: https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb.do?mode=welcome_ei_new&eventID=10564729.

NWSEO has already notified the members who are eligible for the NWSEO Recruitment Incentive. If you recruited two new members to join NWSEO using payroll deduction (1187 form) between November 14, 2012 and July 31, 2013, you should have received an email letting you know that your convention night hotel stay and airfare are covered by NWSEO. In order to be eligible, new members had to write your name on their SF1187 when they joined – this was required to give you the recruitment credit. Please be aware that even if you receive the Recruitment Incentive, you are still responsible for reserving your room. We hope to see you in St. Pete – September 22 and 23, 2013.

-NWSEO-

2013 NWSEO Election Letter and Convention Details

Election Letter

May 23, 2013 printable copy

(May 23, 2013) The 2013 Election Letter is in the mail to NWSEO members. As an added convenience, we are posting the letter at https://nwseo.org/convention.php. The Elections Letter details the procedures to nominate NWSEO members for NWSEO offices and to participate in elections for local offices.

Information for the 2013 National Convention is included in the Elections Letter. All NWSEO members are invited to attend. This year, the 38th annual NWSEO Convention is in sunny St. Petersburg, Florida on Sunday and Monday, September 22-23, 2013 at the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club. This is an iconic hotel overlooking Tampa Bay, which features the ultimate luxurious retreat along Florida’s West Coast.

We have successfully negotiated a single/double room rate starting at $93 per night plus 12% tax. Room reservations must be made by August 23, 2013. If you plan to attend the convention, you are responsible for making your reservations. They can be booked directly with Marriott reservations by calling 1 (800) 468-3571 or (727) 894-1000. Please mention that you are a member of NWSEO and attending the convention in order to get the negotiated room rate. If you prefer to make your reservations online, please visit: https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb.do?mode=welcome_ei_new&eventID=10564729.

New Steward Training session for new stewards will be held on Saturday, September 21 from 1 - 5 p.m. at the hotel. Due to limited space, this training is for invited new stewards only. If, after the election, you are a newly elected steward and would like to attend the training, please let your Regional Chair know before July 31, 2013. A request for this training is not a guarantee as space is limited; however, we do need to know if you are interested in attending the training.

-NWSEO-

The NWSEO 38th Annual National Convention
in St. Petersburg, Florida is September 22-23, 2013

(A Sunday-Monday Event)

May 7, 2013 Print Copy

(May 7, 2013) The 2013 NWSEO National Convention is in sunny St. Petersburg, Florida on Sunday and Monday, September 22-23, 2013. The convention takes place at the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club, an iconic hotel overlooking Tampa Bay, which features the ultimate luxurious retreat along Florida’s West Coast.

New Steward Training will take place on Saturday, September 21 from 1 – 5 p.m. for invited new stewards only. If you are a new steward and are interested in attending the training, please contact your Regional Chair by July 31. A request is not a guarantee as space is limited; however, we do need to know if you are interested in attending the training. Additional information on new steward training will be provided as we get closer to the convention.

If you recruit two new members to join NWSEO using payroll deduction between November 14, 2012 and July 31, 2013, your convention night hotel stay and airfare are covered by NWSEO. Please be sure to tell new members to write your name on their SF1187 when they join – this is required to give you the recruitment credit. NWSEO will notify you in early August if you are on the list of people who receive this recruitment incentive.

NWSEO will keep you informed about convention plans in the coming months. Updates and the reservation link are available on https://nwseo.org/convention.php. You will receive your NWSEO Election Letter in the mail this month with information on the convention and elections. If you have moved in the past year, please update your address with Director of Membership Services Peter Nuhn at peter@nwseo.org.

We hope to see you at the convention!

-NWSEO-

$100 New Member Rebate

The delegates passed a recruitment incentive for any new member who joins NWSEO by 1187 for payroll deduction to receive a $100 dollar dues rebate. The offer is available from November 14, 2012 to March 1, 2013.

Additionally, for any member who recruits two new members to join NWSEO using the 1187 for payroll deduction between November 14th 2012 through July 31, 2013, NWSEO will provide airfare, lodging, and group meals for the 2013 convention. The name of the recruiter must be on the SF1187. Peter Nuhn may accept email or phone call if a recruiter forgets to write his/her name on the SF1187.

37th Annual Convention Las Vegas, Nevada 2012

NWSEO Honors NWS Southern Region Director Bill Proenza

(December 5, 2012) NWSEO honors Bill Proenza with a Proclamation of Appreciation. The award is in recognition of Mr. Proenza’s longtime dedication and tireless efforts to protect and secure resources for the agency’s critical life-saving mission and to support the nation’s economic well-being. As NWS Southern Region Director, Mr. Proenza continues to influence the National Weather Service’s current and future policies.

NWSEO President Dan Sobien presented the Proclamation of Appreciation at the 37th annual NWSEO Convention in November. Mr. Proenza gave a presentation on the NWS Weather Ready Nation program at the convention.

Mr. Proenza’s career with the National Weather Service spans close to 50 years. He demonstrates outstanding valor, integrity, dedication, sensitivity, sacrifice and perseverance in the face of difficult circumstances and forces.

The NWSEO Proclamation of Appreciation is presented to United States National Weather Service leaders who earn national admiration from their colleagues.

NWSEO President presents NWS Southern Region Director Bill Proenza with
A Proclamation of Appreciation
November 13, 2012

Congratulations to Shannon White
Recipient of the 2012 NWSEO Kip Robinson Award

(November 28, 2012) NWSEO congratulates Shannon White, the 2012 recipient of the Kip Robinson Award. This annual NWSEO award is given in recognition of members who volunteer their time and talents to make NWSEO a stronger union.

Shannon is a NWS AWIPS instructor at the Forecast Decision Training Branch. She is recognized for her work in representing the NWSEO on various AWIPS II teams and updating NWSEO members on issues regarding the NWS implementation of AWIPS II.

“Shannon has been a great source of information and an integral team member as NWSEO works to ensure that the implementation of AWIPS II proceeds when the system is ready to work as it is designed,” said Dan Sobien, NWSEO President.

The Kip Robinson Award is named after a late lobbyist who worked diligently for NWSEO. Past winners include Steve Pritchett, Chris Sisko, Delyne Kirkham, Lisa Frantz, Bill Proenza, Bill Hirt, John Stansfield, and Barry Hirshorn.

NWSEO National Convention News
And $100 New Member Rebate

(November 20, 2012) NWSEO would like to thank all of the members who attended the 37th annual National NWSEO Convention in Las Vegas on November 13 and 14. It was an informative and productive convention with presentations from NWSEO President Dan Sobien, NWSEO Vice President Bill Hopkins, Counsel Richard Hirn, Constitution Committee member JoAnn Becker, NOAA Attorney Guild Chair Mitch MacDonald, NESDIS Chair Hugh Sharkey, and NWSEO Communications Director Lisa Luciani, NWS Southern Region Director Bill Proenza and NWSEO member Shannon White provided an update on AWIPS II.

Convention delegates and attendees voted on three amendments to the constitution and by-laws. The changes focused on aligning the leadership terms in order to create a consistency of terms in the NWSEO constitution and to provide flexibility to manage future NWSEO costs. Two of the amendments failed, including an amendment designed to extend the term of branch steward to two years (from the current one year term) to match the term of regional chairs, and a second amendment that would have aligned the term of regional chairs to the term of national officers. A third amendment to synchronize the number of terms of national officers passed with a 2/3 majority vote.

The delegates also passed a recruitment incentive for any new member who joins NWSEO by 1187 for payroll deduction to receive a $100 dollar dues rebate. The offer is available from November 14, 2012 to March 1, 2013.

Elections for NWSEO Regional Chair and Vice Chair were completed at the convention. We welcome JoAnn Becker, Mitch MacDonald and Steve Pritchett on the new national council. Below is a list of the 2012-2013 Regional Chairs and Vice Chairs:

Alaska Region
Chairperson – Jim Brader
Vice Chair-Phil Dutton

Central Region
Chairperson – Martin Lee
Vice Chair- Jim Sieveking

Eastern Region
Regional Chairperson - David Solano
Vice Chairperson - Matt Steinbugl

NWS Headquarters Region
Chairperson - Steven Pritchett
Vice Chairperson- Mike Dion

NOAA Attorney's Guild
Chairperson – Mitch MacDonald
Vice Chairperson - Lauren Smoker

NCEP Region
Chairperson - JoAnn Becker
Vice Chairperson - Bill Hirt

Pacific Region
Chairperson – Barry Hirshorn
Vice Chairperson - Pete Donaldson

Southern Region
Chairperson – John Werner
Vice Chairperson - Mark Wilson

Western Region
Chairperson – Robert Baruffaldi
Vice Chair- Joe Solomon

The Tuesday evening NWSEO Banquet was a time to honor outstanding NWSEO members and to network with other NWS professionals at the convention. Congratulations to Shannon White, this year’s honored recipient of the NWSEO Kip Robinson Award. This annual NWSEO award is given in recognition of members volunteering their time and talents to make NWSEO a stronger union. The Kip Robinson Award is named after a late lobbyist who worked diligently for NWSEO. Past winners include Bill Proenza, Bill Hirt, John Stansfield, Barry Hirshorn, Chris Sisko and Steve Pritchett.

A special recognition was also given to Chris Robinson for his help with the Protect the National Weather Service Facebook Community. Vice President Hopkins was thanked for his hard work in organizing the convention and Bill Proenza was recognized for improving labor management relations throughout his career.

After the 37th annual NWSEO National Convention, your national council met to deal with a grievance filed against an officer for leaving an intimidating voice mail on another member’s phone. The council unanimously agreed to levy a $1,000 fine on the charged council member, created a plan of action for a change in behavior that was agreed to by the charged member, and tasked the NWSEO Constitution Committee to develop amendments to make elections less open to intimidation, to clarify the grievance procedures. Additionally, all council members will participate in diversity and sensitivity training.

Next year’s annual convention will be held at the Vinoy Resort in St. Petersburg, Florida on Sunday and Monday, September 22 and 23, with steward training on Saturday, September 21. NWSEO obtained the government rate of $90 per night. The location was agreed to by a voice vote.

Vinoy Renaissance Resort @ Golf Club is a business friendly hotel close to Chihuly Collection, Renaissance Vinoy Golf Club, and Salvador Dali Museum including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Pier which includes a variety of restaurants and gift shops.

-NWSEO-

If you experience difficulty with the above link, please visit: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpasr-renaissance-vinoy-resort-and-golf-club

Scroll down the page for the list of Delegates and Nominations.

The 37th NWSEO Annual Convention Update

(November 13, 2012) NWSEO President Dan Sobien welcomed the group and thanked all veterans for their service. Executive Vice President Bill Hopkins presented a review of the union's work and accomplishments from October 2011 to present.

Joann Becker of the Credentials Committee gave a presentation on a proposed amendments to the Constitution and By-laws. The focus of these changes are:

Align the Branch Steward term from current one year term to two years to match term of Regional Chairs
Align the terms limits for the National OfficersThe purpose of this change is as a cost saving measure in light of a high retirement rate of members and NWS employees. The group discussed the ideas presented and provided input and many ideas of their own. Changes to the constitution can be done by a mail out to all members with a simple majority OR a 2/3 majority vote at a National Convention.
Convention members will entertain motions to accept OR amend the proposals at hand. There will be a vote later in the convention.

NWSEO General Counsel Richard Hirn presented his annual report and highlights of the most important cases from October 2011 to present. For a recap of this work, visit the Member News page of this site and scroll down to see the accomplishments.

A motion was made and passed on a unanimous voice vote to make Ted Apley and John Stansfield lifetime members. Both gentlemen have been long-time members and worked hard for union on many issues over the years. We appreciate their work and dedication.

NWSEO Treasurer Dave Solano presented the 2013 NWSEO budget. The 2013 budget was approved unanimously. NWSEO Director of Communications Lisa Luciani provided a report on media relations, communications and recruitment.

NWSEO President Dan Sobien's presentation to the convention focused on the future of the NWS and the issues that need the agency's attention.

Shannon White updated the convention on AWIPS2. Raytheon has been working on A2 for 8 years. So far cost estimates are around ½ Billion Dollars! Only 8 WFOs and 4 RFCs are running A2. A2 is a much slower system and performance issues continue. NOAA and the NWS have no future plan in place for AWIPS2 OR AWIPS 1. Due to the lack of funding there has been reduced testing of AWIPS2 in HQ. Raytheon is doing all or most of the testing.

National Convention Agenda

National Weather Service Employees Organization
37th CONVENTION
Las Vegas, Nevada
November 13-14, 2012

AGENDA

Tuesday, November 13
Room: Tribeca
Morning:
7:15 – Registration
8:00 – Dan Sobien, President NWSEO, call meeting to order, appoint parliamentarian, call for reading
of 2011 Convention minutes.
8:15 – Bill Hopkins, Executive Vice President, NWSEO
8:45 – Constitution Changes, JoAnn Becker
9:15 – Richard Hirn, General Council, NWSEO
10:15 – Break
10:30 – Richard Hirn, General Council, NWSEO
PAC discussion, Dan
12:00 – Lunch – On your own, return promptly at 1pm.

Afternoon
1:00 – Credentials Committee Report
1:30 – Dave Solano, Secretary Treasurer NWSEO
2:00 – Director Media Relations, Lisa Luciani,
2:30 – Break
2:45 – Dan Sobien, President, NWSEO
3:30 – Future of NWS - Bill Proenza
4:15 – Report out on Grievance against Union, Bill Hirt
5:00 – Vote on Constitutional Changes
5:30 – Break for Day

6:30-9:00 Banquet Dinner at Park Terrace

Wednesday, November 14
Room: Tribeca
Morning
8:00 – Elections (PR, WR)
8:30 – Election Results/Director of Membership NWSEO Report, Peter Nuhn
9:00 – NAG Report, Matera/McDonald
9:15 – AOC/AOML Report,
9:30 – NESDIS Report, Sharkey
9:45 – 2013 Convention
10:00 – Break
10:15 – AWIPS II – Shannon White
11:00 – Appoint committee members

12:00 – Lunch on your own. Return promptly at 1pm.

1:00 – New Business
1:45 – Adjourn for Council Meeting

5:30 – National Council Dinner, Location n Fornaio, at NYNY

36th Annual National Convention Raleigh, North Carolina 2011

NWSEO 36th Annual National Convention Update

Monday, September 26, 2011

2011 NWSEO Election Results

NWSEO President – Dan Sobien
NWSEO Vice President - Bill Hopkins
NWSEO Secretary-Treasurer – Dave Solano
Congratulations!

Sunday, September 25, 2011

NWSEO President Dan Sobien welcomed the NWSEO members to the national convention. Minutes from 2010 NWSEO Convention reviewed and accepted. NWSEO Vice President Bill Hopkins provided an overview highlights and accomplishments for the past year, including NWSEO’s work in keeping the National Weather Service fully funded for FY11.

Communications Director Lisa Luciani discussed NWSEO media efforts to keep the National Weather Service fully funded. In February, NWS was facing a 28 percent budget cut under House proposed HR1 equal to $125 million taken from the remaining $446 million for the last six months of FY11. The move would have necessitated work furloughs and forced rolling closures of Weather Warning offices across the country.

NWSEO activated a full scale communications and media approach to inform the public on how the cuts would impact the Agency’s mission of saving lives and property. Efforts included a webpage that provided clear, concise information, sample letters to legislators and legislator contact information, a call to action for NWSEO stewards and talking points that resulted in news stories nationwide and captured the interest of major media outlets. The development of the Protect the National Weather Service Facebook page which now has 68,000 fans was born out of these efforts. The page is maintained by NWSEO and is a successful tool for keeping the public informed on weather related and funding issues.

Southern Region Director Bill Proenza thanked members for their dedication to their jobs and the mission of saving lives and property. He expressed appreciation for the work of NWSEO. Proenza said the attention and visibility of the National Weather Service is based on the work of members and what NWSEO is, “We can’t do what NWSEO does, and they do it effectively.”

General Counsel Richard Hirn's report focused on the work of NWSEO. The vast amount of work accomplished by NWSEO with the help of Mr. Hirn can be found on the Member News page. To receive the Four Winds newsletter and stay apprised of NWSEO accomplishments, please send your private email address to Director of Communications Lisa Luciani.

NWSEO Eastern Region Chairman and Senior Hydrometeorologist at the Middle Atlantic River Forecast Center, David Solano provided an update on the evolving role of River Forecast Centers and the team’s work on National Water Support Center. The role of the RFC is increasing. RFCs will remain the experts when it comes to river forecasts across the country. They play a key role in new products and information services to meet the nation’s needs now and in the future. All field offices will maintain ownership of river and regional water resource products and decision support services, now and in the future.

NOAA Assistant Secretary for Environmental Observation and Prediction, Dr. Kathryn Sullivan is the honored guest speaker of the NWSEO convention. Dr. Sullivan, a renowned astronaut, holds the distinction of being the first American woman to walk in space. She flew on three shuttle missions during her 15-year tenure, including the mission that deployed the Hubble Space Telescope.
Dr. Sullivan discussed her love of science and how the question of “How does this planet work?” inspired her career path. Dr. Sullivan talked about moving the Agency forward through science and innovation.

NWSEO President Dan Sobien talks about Weather Ready Nation. His topic - Making Tornado Warnings Obsolete focuses on the idea that in the future, the NWS could work with emergency managers, and local government leaders to provide tornado warnings early enough for people to evacuate.

AWIPS II
Testing of AWIPS II commenced during the late summer at WFO Omaha. Omaha was chosen due to its proximity to the software developers which allows for more interaction between the forecasters and the developers. Over the course of the testing, more than 200 "show-stopper" issues have been identified by the forecasters which must be fixed in order for Omaha to deem the software operationally ready. In addition, some functionality, such as ISC and service backup, have yet to be fully tested.

The issues at an inland site such as Omaha will be much different from a marine or coastal site. So, there is concern about going forward without testing the full suite of NWS products and services. Also, there is little planning for RFCs. Much of the work to date has been done by field RFC personnel. There are also questions on how the National Center component will work within the AWIPS II framework. All of these questions need to be addressed before the AWIPS II program as a whole can move forward.

Shannon White, NWSEO representative on the AWIPS II Test Review Group, stated that the greatest challenge with the program is that it is under-resourced given the aggressive timeline. More people with technical expertise are needed so that both comprehensive testing can be done along with all of the program management. During this Omaha test period, the forecaster testing that had been done at NWSHQ had been suspended, limiting the number of software issues that could be verfied. This additional testing effort is ramping back up in order to verify that software fixes supplied by the developers meet the requirements of the NWS. Field personnel will be needed to come to NWSHQ to perform this testing.

National Weather Service Assistant Administrator, Dr. Jack Hayes was present at the convention and said that while the plan is aggressive, he stressed that he is listening to the issues to ensure that the system can perform the NWS mission. Lock-ups and crashes will not be tolerated. Dr. Hayes assured the group that Mary Glackin, Deputy Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere, understands the challenges and is very supportive. Dr. Hayes says there has been good progress since AWIPS II started three years ago. He is briefed weekly on issues and problems and hopes instability will be past history. Dr. Hayes said he’d take the input and suggestions back to the Agency and try to cut the bureaucratic requirements. The hope is to have it operational by first quarter
of FY12.

Stay tuned to www.nwseo.org for more updates from the annual convention.

News from the 36th Annual NWEO Convention

NWSEO will be posting news and updates from the 36th Annual Convention in Raleigh, NC, on Sunday-Monday, September 25-26.

Are you a member of the NWSEO Facebook group? If not, this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the NWSEO Facebook page. Currently, there are 262 members of this closed group. Become a member and get the convention news as it happens.

Twitter: We will be sending “tweets” throughout the convention to give you a quick heads up on the news as it happens. If you have a Twitter account, sign up to follow NWSEO on Twitter. Don’t have an account? It’s easy to sign up at Twitter.com.

We’re looking forward to providing you with the most recent updates and news from NWSEO with access at your fingertips!

National Weather Service Employees Organization
36th Annual National Convention
Raleigh, North Carolina
September 25-26, 2011

AGENDA

Sunday, September 25
Room: State E/F

Morning:
7:30 – Registration
8:00 – Dan Sobien, President NWSEO, call meeting to order, appoint parliamentarian, call for reading
of 2010 Convention minutes
8:15 – Bill Hopkins, Executive Vice President, NWSEO
9:15 – Richard Hirn, General Council, NWSEO
10:45 – Break
11:00 – Credentials Committee Report
11:15 – Lisa Luciani, Director Media Relations
11:45 – Marguerite Matera, Secretary Treasurer NWSEO, Financial Report, last 12 months
12:00 – Lunch

Room:
State Room A/B
Afternoon

1:00 – Dr. Kathryn Sullivan, NOAA Assistant Secretary for Environmental Observation and Prediction
2:00 – Dr. Jack Hayes, Assistant Administrator, National Weather Service
3:00 – Dan Sobien, President, NWSEO
4:00 – Q&A with Pilot MIC’s
5:30 – Break for Day

6:30-9:00 Banquet Dinner at La Volta
411 Fayetteville St. Downtown Raleigh, NC
Q&A with Secretary Treasure Candidates

Monday, September 26
Room: State E/F

Morning

8:00 – Elections
8:30 – Peter Nuhn, Director of Membership NWSEO Report, followed by; NAG, AOC, AOML, NEDSIS
9:00 – Richard Hirn, General Counsel NWSEO, Legislative report
10:30 – Break
10:40 – Marguerite Matera, Secretary Treasure NWSEO, Budget for 2012
11:00 – Congressman Brad Miller
12:30 - Lunch
Lunch

Afternoon
Room State A/B

1:30 – Steve Pritchett, NWSEO Steward NWSHQ, NWSHQ issues
2:00 – Dan Sobien, President NWSEO, National Council Proposal
3:00 – 2012 Convention
3:30 – Appoint committee members
4:00 – New Business/Adjourn for Council Meeting

Super Shuttle to NWSEO National Convention

The NWSEO National Convention is Sunday-Monday, September 25-26 in Raleigh, NC. NWSEO has a discounted rate of $26 for the Super Shuttle from the Raleigh-Durham airport to the Mariott City Center Hotel. Please use the link below to get the discount.

https://www.supershuttle.com/default.aspx?GC=FWYAX

35th Annual Convention Miami, Florida 2010

News from the NWSEO 35th Annual National Convention

NWS Director Jack Hayes and NWSEO President Dan Sobien at the 35 Annual NWSEO Convention

Robert Ricks, Ken Graham, John Werner, and Andy Winer discuss the
NOAA and NWSEO response and recovery efforts for Deepwater Horizon.

printable copy

(October 12, 2010) NWSEO President Dan Sobien called the 35th Annual National Convention to order and welcomed attendees. Vice President Bill Hopkins gave the initial address and reviewed the work of NWSEO leadership over the past year, including the following events.

AMS Conference in Atlanta
Endorsed the National Climate Service roll out
Members of DOC National Labor Forum,
Stopped consolidation of CWSUs,
Won appeal to bargain for increase the staffing at WFO in Anchorage
Grievance nets back pay for nearly 200 employees, Spring Council Meeting – Presented the NWSEO vision to Deputy Undersecretary Mary Glackin, NWSEO President signs DOC Labor Management Forum Charter
Grievance nets pay out for 247 MITs, NWSEO looks to diversify representation on National Teams, Wallops Island Satellite Issues. Twenty-six jobs are in jeopardy due to the plan to move polar satellites to Svalbard Island off the coast of Norway.
NWS recognizes work to promote aviation safety through the CWSUs

On-Going Issues
ASA Grades
Earlier this year, NWSEO sent a request to NOAA Deputy Undersecretary Mary Glackin requesting a review of ASA grades after several conversations with various NOAA and NWS management officials on the subject. NOAA has completed an informal desk audit to identify the problems. NWSEO continues to work with the NWS on the proper roles and grades of ASAs. The National Labor Council chartered a team to look specifically at ASA retention issues. NWSEO members on the team are Delyne Kirkham and Lisa Frantz.

DOC Pilot Project - Labor Management Forum
President Sobien was elected co-chair of the Labor Management Forum by all DOC unions. He represents the Labor side of the Department of Commerce. NWSEO Vice President Bill Hopkins, Treasurer Marguerite Matera, and NESDIS Vice President Hugh Sharkey are also members. DOC Chief Financial Officer Scott Quehl co-chairs the Labor Management Forum, representing Management.
Andy Winer, NOAA Director of External Affairs attended the convention and explained that the purpose of the forum is to elevate ideas to a department level and get past the bureaucracy. “It’s significant that Dan sits on this level and it’s significant who he works with,” Winer said.
While many other forums are trying to get their charter signed, the Labor Management Forum has already started tackling their first project. The B1 Travel Project is designed to empower employees who travel for work to find cheaper transportation instead of taking the “government required” airline. The intent is to save money and add convenience for the traveler. NWSEO.org will keep you posted as work on the travel project continues.

Management Problems
NWSEO often tackles problems repeatedly from the same managers. President Dan Sobien and Vice President Bill Hopkins are discussing the possibility of developing a color coded map to identify and inform members of potential problem managers. The map can be used to warn members of the possible implications to their career and morale if they bid on these offices.
Another idea is to ask the NWS to allow branch stewards to have direct input to the regional directors, division chiefs and the NCEP director on their local supervisor’s GWPAS.

AWIPS 2
There was a brief discussion on AWIPS-2. Vice President Hopkins said NWSEO will not allow it in the field without proper testing.
There was a discussion on the use of technology and the best way to disseminate warnings.
A news clip “Open Mike” was played, showing a news anchor complaining about the weather warnings on Weather Radio asking NWS to use text messaging. It was suggested that the NWS could use Twitter for the warnings. This would be a way to reach a greater audience, as more people use their personal technology and social media much more often than weather radios. One person said that he gets his weather warnings as an Android app.
President Dan Sobien said he’d like to have a contest among members to develop innovative ways to disseminate weather warnings, such as creating an app. A brainstorming session followed.

Financial Report
NWSEO Secretary/Treasurer Marguerite Matera presented the financial report. The new budget year begins on January 1. NWSEO is required to file a report with the IRS and the Department of Labor. Those reports are already completed. The auditor review is also complete.
The two types of funds that NWSEO invests come from dues and income from investments. Over the years, NWSEO has been making the change from stocks and mutual funds to more stable CDs. The mutual funds that are making money are staying. The CDs are used to stabilize investments.

Recruitment Offer
In an effort to recruit more members, NWSEO will pay the travel and hotel room expenses to NWSEO 2011 National Convention for any member who recruits at least two new members between October 10, 2010 and July 31, 2011. Any member who recruits at least two new members between August 1, 2011 and July 31, 2012 will be eligible for the same offer for NWSEO’s 2012 National Convention. In order to be eligible for these offers, new members must sign up by SF 1187 and identify you on the form as the person who recruited them.

NWSEO on Facebook
NWSEO Facebook is one more communication tool the union is using to reach its members. The page is fast becoming a place where members can discuss upcoming events and issues that NWSEO is working on or find answers to questions they may have.
We hope you’ll become a Facebook NWSEO member today!

There’s much more news ahead from the NWSEO 35th National Convention, including an update on NWS's work to help with the Deepwater Horizon recovery efforts. Please check back to NWSEO.org this week for follow up articles from the convention.

NWSEO Election Results

NWSEO would like to congratulate the following for their election to Chair and Vice Chair for their respective regions.

Eastern Region
Chair – David Solano
Vice Chair – Scott Prosise

Southern Region
Chair – John Werner
Vice Chair – Mark Wilson

Central Region
Chair – Martin Lee
Vice Chair – Jim Sieveking

Western Region
Chair – Robert Baruffaldi,
Vice Chair – Joe Solomon

Alaska Region
Chair – Jim Brader
Vice Chair – Phil Dutton

Pacific Region
Chair – Barry Hirshorn
Vice Chair – Henry Lau

NOAA Attorneys Guild
Vice President - Marguerite Matera
Vice Chair - Mitch McDonald

Wallops Island
Vice President - Hugh Sharkey
Vice Chair - Wade Davis

NWSEO thanks you for your commitment and service to the union. We would also like to express our appreciation to Kathe Schofield, Nathan Becker, and Chris Waterhouse for their service to NWSEO as Chair and Vice Chairs respectively.

Fraternally

Dan Sobien
President
National Weather Service
Employees Organization

Agenda for the 2010 National Convention

National Weather Service Employees Organization
35th Annual Convention
Miami, Florida
October 9-10, 2010

AGENDA

Saturday, October 9 Meeting in Ocean Tower II Salon B

7:30 a.m. – Registration
8:00 a.m. – President Sobien calls meeting to order, appoints parliamentarian, call for reading of 2009 convention minutes.
8:30 a.m. – Address by Vice President Bill Hopkins
9:15 a.m. – Financial Report, NWSEO Finances last 12 Months – Marguerite Matera, Secretary Treasurer
9:30 a.m. – Break
9:45 a.m. – Address by General Counsel Richard Hirn

Noon – Lunch – Ocean Tower II Salon A
Credential Committee Report

1:00 p.m. – Legislative/PAC Report – Richard Hirn, Dan Sobien
2:30 p.m. – Break
2:40 p.m. – NOAA Level Response, Deepwater Horizon – Andy Winer, NOAA Director of External Affairs
3:05 p.m. – NWS/WFO New Orleans Response to Deepwater Horizon – Ken Graham, New Orleans MIC/Robert Ricks, New Orleans NWSEO Steward
3:30 p.m. – NWS Vision – Dan Sobien/Jack Hayes – Assistant Administrator for Weather Services; Director NWS
5:00 p.m. – Regional Elections

6:30 – 9 p.m. Banquet Dinner at Café Avanti
Regional Election Results

Sunday, October 10 Meeting in Ocean Tower II Salon B

8:30 a.m. – Media Relations Report/Communications – Lisa Luciani, Director of Communications.
9:15 a.m. – DMS Report – Peter Nuhn, Director of Membership Services
9:45 a.m. – Break
10:00 a.m. – Water Resources, Future of NWS –Dave Solano, ER Chairman
10:30a.m. – Budget for 2011 – Marguerite Matera, NWSEO Secretary-Treasurer
11:00 a.m. – Bylaws Changes - Robert Baruffaldi, WR Chairman
11:30 a.m. – NAG Report - Marguerite Matera, NWSEO NAG Vice President
11:45 a.m. – NESDIS Report - Hugh Sharkey, NWSEO NESDIS Vice President

Noon Lunch – Ocean Tower II Salon B

1:00 pm – 2011 Convention
1:30 pm – Appoint committee members
2:00 pm – New Business

Election News - Regional Nominations

Nominations for Regional Chairperson and Vice -Chairperson

According to the Election Guidelines, all nominations were due on September 25, 2010

Eastern Region
Nominations for Chairperson – David Solano
Nominations for Vice Chairperson- Scott Prosise

On July 20 Scott Kroczynski nominated David Solano for Eastern Region Chairperson.
On July 20 Scott Kroczynski nominated Scott Prosise for Eastern Region Vice Chairperson.
On July 26, 2010 David Solono nominated himself for Eastern Region Chairperson.
On July 26, 2010 David Solono nominated Scott Prosise for Eastern Region Vice Chairperson.
On August 5, 2010 Barry Lambert nominated David Solano for Eastern Region Chairperson.
On August 5, 2010 Barry Lambert nominated Scott Prosise for Eastern Region Vice Chairperson.
On August 28, 2010 Scott Prosise nominated David Solano for Eastern Region Chairperson.
On August 28, 2010 Scott Prosise nominated himself for Eastern Region Vice Chairperson.

Southern Region
Nominations for Chairperson – Kathe Schofield, John Werner
Nominations for Vice Chairperson - Michael Castillo, John Werner, Mark Wilson

On July 8, 2010 Stanley Grell nominated Kathe Schofield for Southern Region Chairperson.
On July 8, 2010 Stanley Grell nominated John Werner for Southern Region Vice Chairperson.
On July 20, 2010 Brian Miller nominated John Werner for Southern Region Chairperson.
On August 9, 2010 Aaron Stevens nominated John Werner for Southern Region Chairperson.
On August 9, 2010 Aaron Stevens nominated Mark Wilson for Southern Region Vice Chairperson.
On September 14, 2010 Brian Miller nominated Michael Castillo for Southern Region Vice Chairperson.

Central Region
Chairperson – Martin Lee
Vice Chair- Jim Sieveking
Note: Teresa Keck has accepted a management position.

On June 26, 2010 Martin Lee nominated himself for Central Region Chairperson.
On June 262010 Martin Lee nominated Teresa Keck as Central Region Vice Chairperson.
*Teresa Keck has since accepted a management position and is no longer eligible to serve as Vice Chairperson.

On September 17, 2010 Martin Lee nominated himself for Central Region Chairperson.
On September 17, 2010 Martin Lee nominated Jim Sieveking for Central Region Vice Chairperson.

Western Region
Chair – Robert Baruffaldi
Vice Chair- Joe Solomon

On April 10, 2010 Robert Baruffaldi nominated himself for Western Region Chairperson.
On April 10, 2010 Robert Baruffaldi nominated Joe Solomon for Western Region Vice Chairperson.

Alaska Region
Chair – Jim Brader
Vice Chair-Phil Dutton, Robert D. Easton

On July 1, 2010 Jim Brader nominated himself ro Alaska Region Chairperson
On July 1, 2010 Jim Brader nominated Phil Dutton for Alaska Region Vice Chairperson.
On August 10, 2010 Phil Dutton nominated himself for Alaska Region Vice Chairperson.
On October 3, 2009 Robert Easton nominated himself for Alaska Region Vice Chairperson.

Pacific Region
Chairperson –Nathan Becker, Barry Hirshorn,
Vice Chairperson -Dr. Gerard Fryer, Barry Hirshorn, Henry Lau

On August 23, 2010 Nathan Becker nominated himself for Pacific Region Chairperson.
On August 23, 2010 Nathan Becker nominated Barry Hirshorn for Pacific Region Vice Chairperson.
On August 30, 2010 Robert Cessaro nominated Dr. Gerard Fryer for Pacific Region Vice Chairperson
On September 20, 2010 Henry Lau nominated himself for Pacific Region Vice Chairperson.
On September 23, 2010 Barry Hirshorn nominated himself for Pacific Region Chairperson.
On September 23, 2010 Barry Hirshorn nominated himself for Pacific Region Vice Chairperson.

NAG
Vice President – Marguerite Matera
Vice Chair- Mitch MacDonald

On August 19, 2010 Marguerite Matera nominated herself for NOAA Attorneys Guild Chairperson.
On August 19, 2010 Marguerite Matera nominated Mitch MacDonald for NOAA Attorneys Guild Vice Chairperson.

September 8 is the Registration Deadline for 35th Annual NWSEO National Convention
At Miami's Eden Roc Hotel

(Make your online reservation today.)

printable copy

(August 16, 2010) The deadline to make reservations for the 35th Annual NWSEO National Convention is September 8, 2010.

This year, the convention will be Saturday and Sunday, October 9-10 at the Eden Roc Hotel in Miami, Florida. For your convenience, you may make your reservation directly online using the following link:

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/miasr?groupCode=nwsnwsa&app=resvlink&fromDate=10/8/10&toDate=10/10/10

Room rates for the Eden Roc Hotel are $129 per night. If you prefer to call to reserve your room at the Eden Roc Hotel, call the Reservations direct line: 1-800-468-3571. Please be sure to tell them that you are with NWSEO in order to get the negotiated room rate. NWSEO will provide lunch on Saturday and Sunday and a Saturday evening dinner buffet as part of the convention.

The national convention is a time to learn in-depth about NWSEO’s work and accomplishments. You’ll hear about upcoming events, strategies and opportunities. This is also a great opportunity to network with other professionals throughout the country. Many NWSEO members return to the event every year. NWSEO.org will keep you informed about Convention Registration in the coming weeks. We hope to see you on October 9 and 10 in Miami!

Make Reservations for the 35th Annual NWSEO Convention

Convention Dates: Saturday and Sunday, October 9-10, 2010

(July 26, 2010) Have you made your reservations yet? The 35th Annual NWSEO Convention will be Saturday and Sunday, October 9-10 at the Eden Roc Hotel in Miami, Florida. It’s a time to learn in depth about NWSEO’s work and accomplishments. You’ll hear about upcoming events, strategies and opportunities. This is also a great opportunity to network with other professionals throughout the country. Many NWSEO members return to the event every year.

Room rates for the Eden Roc Hotel are $129 per night. To reserve your room at the Eden Roc Hotel, call the Reservations direct line: 1-800-468-3571. Please be sure to tell them that you are with NWSEO in order to get the negotiated room rate.

If you encourage two new members to join NWSEO in 2010, your hotel stay and travel expenses are covered by NWSEO. Please be sure to tell new members to write your name on their SF1187 when they join to give you the recruitment credit. Also, please be aware that even if you recruit two new members, you still are responsible for reserving your room.

NWSEO will provide lunch on Saturday and Sunday and a Saturday evening dinner buffet as part of the convention. NWSEO.org will keep you informed about Convention Registration in the coming months. We hope to see you in Miami!
Click here for information on the Eden Rock Hotel in Miami.

NWSEO 2010 Elections Checklist and Delegate Form

The 2010 NWSEO Elections Checklist and Delegate form can be accessed here. Elections results may be emailed to the appropriate Credentials Committee member. This form includes all elections timelines and a listing of Credentials Committee Members and their responsibilities.

Elections Letter

Download a copy of the Elections Letter

(June 7, 2010) The NWSEO Elections Letter will be arriving at your home address soon. The NWSEO Elections Letter includes information on nominations procedures and timelines for Regional Chair and Vice Chair, as well as, Branch Steward, Vice Steward, Delegate and Alternate Delegate. It also includes timelines, voting procedures and campaign rules.

2010 Elections and the 35th Annual NWSEO Convention

NWSEO is making plans for the 35th Annual Convention at the Eden Roc Hotel in Miami, Fla., on October 9 and 10. You may already be thinking about the event or trying to recruit two new members.

Remember, the union will pay the travel and hotel room expenses for any member who recruits at least two new members between the dates October 5, 2009 and August 1, 2010. In order to be eligible for the offer, new members must sign up by SF 1187 and identify you on the form as the person who recruited them.

The NWSEO Elections Letter will be mailed to each member's home address in early June. If you have moved or had a change of address in the past year, please email Peter Nuhn your new address. The NWSEO Elections Letter includes information on nominations procedures and timelines for Regional Chair and Vice Chair, as well as, Branch Steward, Vice Steward, Delegate and Alternate Delegate. It also includes timelines, voting procedures and campaign rules.

Please make sure Peter Nuhn has your current home address in order to receive the NWSEO Elections Letter. We hope to see you at the 35th Annual NWSEO Convention in Miami!

Save the Date
NWSEO 35th Annual Convention is October 9-10

printable copy

(April 20, 2010) The 35th Annual NWSEO Convention will be Saturday and Sunday, October 9-10 at the Eden Roc Hotel in Miami, Florida. It’s a time to learn in depth about NWSEO’s work and accomplishments. You’ll hear about upcoming events, strategies and opportunities. This is also a great opportunity to network with other professionals throughout the country. Many NWSEO members return to the event every year.

“Preserving the vital CWSU program has been just one of many issues affecting NWS employees that the NWSEO has been determined to solve. The commitment to find equitable solutions to threatened programs or individual employee problems, no matter how complex or how long it takes to solve, is what makes the NWSEO stand out for me,” said John Stansfield, a meteorologist at the Boston CWSU and NWSEO steward. “The annual NWSEO convention is a great opportunity to directly interact with NWSEO leadership in order to express viewpoints about issues. In addition, I thoroughly enjoy the comradery among fellow NWS employees from across the country experienced at each convention I have attended during the past decade.”

Room rates for the Eden Roc Hotel are $129 per night. If you encourage two new members to join NWSEO in 2010, your hotel stay and travel expenses are covered by NWSEO. Please be sure to tell new members to write your name on their SF1187 when they join to give you the recruitment credit. NWSEO will provide lunch on Saturday and Sunday and a Saturday evening dinner buffet as part of the convention. NWSEO.org will keep you informed about Convention Registration in the coming months. We hope to see you in Miami!

Click here for information on the Eden Rock Hotel in Miami.

Email your convention photos to the NWSEO Membership Director at membership@nwseo.org.