A general meeting of the Federal Managers' Association, Chapter 191, of the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), was held on Wednesday, March 3, 2004 at the RRB headquarters building.
The meeting was called to order at 12:03 PM by President Laberry.
Minutes from the special election December 17, 2003 meeting were reviewed and approved.
Servicing as FMA’s representative, Secretary Coleman-Sutton gave an update on the service anniversary award program committee that is looking at improving the program by providing additional gift options. The committee is looking add such awards as desk clocks, watches and desk sets. Cathy asked if the committee would be considering bonds as service awards. Pauline also explained that although the committee had already decided against offering bonds, as service award options, the committee will make a not of Office of Programs suggestion to offer bonds as an option when the committee’s recommendations were formalized. The committee is also looking at releasing a survey to employees who will reach a service anniversary in 2005 and 2006. The committee’s recommendations will forwarded to the EC members for their review and consideration. Bob mentioned that FMA is also considering giving FMA members a service award to commemorate their participation in the association.
Lynn Cousins provided an update on the Diversity patchwork quilt. Martha is working on the FMA patch. 11 or the 24 patches are being worked on.
Joy presented the 2003 expense report and the proposed 2004 budget.
A discussion was held on the proposed 2004 budget. After a discussion, a motion was carried to approve the budget, with minor changes to lower the projected deficient.
Tom Sadler asked about the importance of FMA’s participation at the conventions. Former Chapter and Zone President Cathy Leyser said that she thought that it was important for FMA to always be represented at the conventions.
Cecilia Freeman indicated that Arlene T. is working on setting up the first FMA Lunch and Learn session to view the training tape, “Appropriate Use of the Email.” This session will be opened to all. The second tape, “Performance Appraisal” is targeted for managers and supervisors.
Bob said that he and Deborah will be attending the National Convention March 20th through the 25th. The major topic for this year’s convention is the possible increase in membership dues coupled with a decreasing membership base and the national presidential election.
Bob also indicated that his presidential focus will be giving back to the membership. To this end, he wants to host an informal spring luncheon (sub-sandwiches and chips) for the headquarters members. At this meeting, he and Deborah will give an overview of the National Convention happenings. Tom and Pauline volunteered to work on setting up this luncheon.
Bob mentioned that we need to solicit volunteers to work on the Secretary’s Day fundraiser. Joy suggested that we ask Mike Ptacek and Claudia Walch, work did a real good job on this in the past.
Tom will be auditing the 2003 FMA financial books.
A motion carried to adjourn the meeting at 12:38.
Respectfully submitted,
Pauline Coleman-Sutton
FMA Secretary
