June 2016 TASCOETASCOE TalesTales
Texas Association of FSA County Office Employees
Cris Perez, president From the Desk of the President . . .
emorial Day has come and continue to maintain adequate I was so glad to hear our and gone! I hope you levels of county of ice funding. Administrator make the comment at had an opportunity to Currently, NASCOE and each state the rally that the County FSA Of ice relax and enjoy some association has been working to employees are the backbone of this Mquality time with your family. Most maintain or possibly even increase agency. He said without CO importantly, Memorial Day also temporary employee funding to help employees and COC members, the reminds us to take a moment to out with critical needs of ices agency could never get the job done re lect on those that gave the ultimate nationwide. Workload and work and the much needed bene its to the sacri ice in service to our country so measurement is the next logical step customers. Your dedication to our we can have all that we have in this in defending and proving the work customers and to get the job done wonderful country. Many folks say we do. If and when a new system is does not go unnoticed. I also Inside this issue: that summer vacation unof icially implemented, I encourage each and continue to take every opportunity to begins when Memorial Day is here. every one of you to seriously and boast about all the work that you get I’m not quite sure about that since truthfully report the work you do as done in Texas. I still tell our STO Sec/Treas Report; 2 our work continues and is accurately as possible. This will be a leadership, National Of ice Election Announcement; important every day to each and vital tool in our next step to leadership, and elected of icials about Convention Info every customer we serve. Even ultimately go before congress and all the hard work you get done and though it may now be summer prove we need more staf ing. how well you serve our customers. I Scholarship Report; 3-4 vacation, I am not on vacation and am proud to serve as your TASCOE Recipient Bios; will still continue working to In May, I had the opportunity to President. Auction Reminder represent you! participate in the NASCOE All West Rally. This forum provided a great Sincerely submitted, NASCOE Publicity Report; 5 County of ice funding and staf ing opportunity for the TASCOE Membership Report for FY 2016 has continued to be a leadership to meet, network, discuss Cris Perez very important and vital issue in and strategize our goals for the TASCOE President Legislative Report 6 the work we do. In FY 2015, at the upcoming year. A lot of great ideas local, state and national level along and suggestions came from this Memorial Report; 7 with our legislative representative, meeting. At your earliest Awards Report Hunter Moorehead, we were able opportunity, please review the notes to override proposed budget cuts from this event. Publicity Report 8
District News 9-12 Vice President’s Report Association Web Info; 13 Director & Committee Chair he Executive Board had a conference center are situated on Listing wonderful trip attending the banks of Lake Granbury and the All West Rally in San only a short walk from downtown Diego, California. We were restaurants and shopping. NASCOE part of an extremely productive Tmeeting with the Northwest Area President, Wes Daniels and and other members of the Southwest Area. A special thanks to Southwest Area Executive Darvin CHASCOE for hosting a great rally. We had the honor and privilege Collins will be in attendance to of visiting with FSA Administrator, Val Dolcini. He is a personable provide leadership training to guy, who truly cares about his employees and our farmers and Directors and Chairs. As in years ranchers. We also had a Q&A session with Mr. Dolcini and Mark past, we will have a Q&A session Morgan limmer, Vice-president Rucker, Deputy Administrator of Management, as well as, Wes with the State Of ice. This gives us Daniels, NASCOE President and Dennis Ray, NASOCE Vice President. the opportunity to visit with State I look forward to seeing everyone Mr. Dolcini and Mr. Rucker were very receptive to our ideas and Of ice leadership about our in Granbury and hope you all are as concerns. Wes and Dennis each provided the group with NASCOE questions and concerns. Don’t excited about convention as I am. I updates. We also participated in both leadership and outreach/ forget about our scholarship meal also hope it will be a productive legislative training. Rallies are rejuvenating and a great reminder of and auction Friday night. Last year time of learning, but also fun and what both NASOCE and TASCOE do for our employees and our we raised a record breaking fellowship with our FSA family. producers. amount and we hope to do the same this year. Morgan Limmer Our TASCOE Convention is right around the corner. This year we TASCOE VP will be in Granbury and the location is perfect. The hotel and Page 2 Secretary/Treasurer Report TASCOE Tales
LaCresha Dale Secretary/Treasurer he 2016 TASCOE Convention is going to be held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Granbury, TX, July 21st‐23rd. The hotel overlooks Lake Granbury and is just steps away from the Granbury Resort Conference Center. The Con‐ ference Center is a 20,000 sq. ft. facility that can be divided into as many as ten smaller meeting or conference spaces to accommodate groups. The facility overlooks Lake Granbury and combined with a board walk that T connects to the Hilton Garden Inn. Not only is the Conference Center and board walk steps away from the hotel, Lake Granbury has its own white sandy beach at the City Beach Park. The beach park includes a spray park, SUP/volleyball/bicycle concessionaire, kayak rentals and thatched roof picnic pavilions available irst come irst serve basis. Don’t mind taking a little stroll? Visit the most historic courthouse square in Texas and enjoy boutique shopping at more than 40 unique stores and nearly a dozen res‐ taurants and eateries. Want to do a little winery or brewery tour while in Granbury? Granbury offers three vineyards, a winery on Texas’ most historic courthouse square and one of the fastest growing microbreweries in the state. If you decide to stay Saturday, Revolver Brewery offers a tour event from 12:00 pm‐3:00 pm. Enjoy beer tast‐ ings of the staples and seasonal lavors, or grab a snack and enjoy the many live bands performing at the brewery’s music venue year round. Convention kicks off Thursday with Directors and Committee Chairs meeting for training and leadership development with the Executive Board and special guests, SWA Executive, Darvin Collins and NASCOE President, Wes Daniels. Around 6:00 PM on Thursday; we walk on over to the Conference Center for a Meet and Greet dinner with Babes Chicken Dinner House catering. This will be a good time for everyone to visit and fellowship with their FSA family and friends. Friday will be a busy day starting off with the TASCOE Directors holding their annual meeting and electing of icers. Anyone is invited to attend. That afternoon, the retirees will hold their meeting and reception. Also Friday afternoon, TASCOE will have its joint meeting with STO and STC. After, Dillard Financial will be offering a retirement training session for those interested. Friday night will be the Annual Scholarship Meal/Auction and games will follow. This year we will have Hard 8 BBQ from Stephenville, TX catering the meal. The Scholarship recipients will be helping with the auction. Make sure to bring your pocketbook to help support the scholarships! Saturday morning will be the annual TASCOE general session and speakers. So make plans now and pack your bags to head to Granbury this summer! We can’t have a successful convention with‐ out you there!
Hotel rooms must be reserved by June 24, 2016 at 5:00 PM Hilton Garden Inn‐Granbury 1‐817‐579‐3800 (identify yourself as part of the TASCOE group) Room rates are $109.00 plus tax. http://hiltongardeninn.hilton.com/en/gi/groups/personalized/D/DFWGBGI‐ TASCOE‐20160719/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG
Election of Of icers and Directors
The election of officers will be held during the Directors Meeting of the TASCOE Convention. This meeting will be on Friday, July 22nd. Candidates for President, Vice-President, and Secretary/Treasurer must announce their candidacy 30 days prior to this meeting in accordance with Article IV, Section 3 of the Constitution and By-Laws. All nominations must be submitted to the Secretary/Treasurer by June 21, 2016. Anyone wishing to run for office is encouraged to do so. If you have any questions, please contact one of the executive board members. This year will be the election of the odd numbered districts Visit the TASCOE website Convention page for hotel reservation and Directors to serve from October 1, 2016 to September 30, registration form information. Deadline for hotel reservations is June 24. 2017. These elections will begin shortly after the TASCOE Return your registration form and payment by July 1 for best prices! Convention. If you want to get more involved, this is one way of doing so. www.tascoe.org Page 3 Scholarship Committee Report TASCOE Tales
We would like to start off by saying how impressed we were with the 2016 TASCOE scholarship applicants. We wish we had a scholarship for each and every child, because every applicant certainly deserved one. That is a direct re lection of how well the parents and family have done raising these children, and you should certainly be proud of yourselves. With that being said, we were only able to award six students with scholarships in 2016. Please help us with congratulating the following students! We look forward to seeing everyone at the Scholarship Auction during the TASCOE convention. Please, do not forget to turn in your items, so we can continue to support outstanding youth like these recipients.
Julie Goetzman Scholarship Committee Chair
Evan Bailey, Son of Amy Lindsey, CED of Foard & Hardeman Counties
I am Evan Bailey, graduating Senior from Vernon High School. My mom is Amy Lindsey, CED‐Foard/Hardeman Counties and my step dad is Kelly Lindsey, CED‐Wilbarger. I have one brother, Towner Bailey, and one sister, Morgan Bailey. I have three step brothers, Cody, Caddo and Mason Lindsey. I have been involved in many extra‐curricular school related activities. I have many hours of volunteer work for AgriLife Extension including dog training, cleaning stalls, preparing for and clean up at the county show; volunteer work at the Fall Festival for the Vernon elementary children; volunteered to of iciate or run clock at the elementary and/or junior high volleyball and baseketball games. I am a member of the National Hon‐ or Society. I love all sports, hunting, ishing, camping and playing guitar. I will be attending West Texas A&M in the Fall of 2016. I plan to major in Bio‐Chemistry. I aspire to be a doctor. Evan received the follow‐ ing awards and recognition during high school: First Team All‐Academic (Football, Basketball, Baseball and Track), Class Favorite, A/B Honor Roll, First Team All‐District Tight End – Football, First Teach All‐District Pitcher – Baseball, First Team All‐District First Baseman, Geometry Award, First Team All‐District outside linebacker – Football, Second Team All‐ District – Basketball, Texoma Hot Dog Eating Champion, Honorable Mention – Basketball, and First team All ‐District irst baseman – Baseball. Evan is also involved in the following community service and clubs: AVID, County Extension Service volunteer, Nation‐ al Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
Hannah Dee Garlick, Daughter of Levi Garlick, CED Fayette-Lee County
Hannah is the 17 year‐old daughter of Levi and Becky Garlick. Levi is the CED in Fayette County. Hannah has a brother and a sister, Jacob (24) and Hallie (21). Hannah is a 2016 graduate of La Grange High School and plans to attend Texas A&M University and major in Biology. Her ultimate goal is to become a neonatal nurse. She is an active member of National Honor Society and has received numerous awards for her outstanding achievements including the FFA Chapter Farmer Award, FFA Agribusiness Award, FFA Star Greenhand Award, and 4‐H Gold Star Award, 4‐ H Silver Star Award, and 4‐H I Dare You Award. In a ceremony in March at the Capitol, Hannah was also awarded the Capital Area Optimist Club Outstanding student in Agriculture Award for 2016. Hannah has held many leadership positions during her high school career including FFA Vice‐President and 4‐H President. Through 4‐H and FFA, Hannah has been a member of several successful poultry and livestock judging teams, having quali ied for state poultry judging in 2015. In addition, she has shown goats, heifers, and poultry at both the major and local livestock shows. This year, she placed 5th with her poultry at the Houston Livestock Show, and she placed irst in the Calf Scramble Show with her scramble heifer, Emmy Dee. She would likely tell you that her greatest high school experiences were placing 3rd in the National 4‐H Food Challenge held at the State Fair of Texas in 2014 and placing 1st in the Houston Livestock Show Food Challenge in 2016. Hannah is active in sports as she has participated in basketball, softball, volleyball, and cross country. She was honored as academic all‐district in basketball in 2015 and 2016. She currently serves as a manager of the defending state championship Lady Leps softball team that is currently ranked #1 in the nation. Hannah has also been an active member of the community participating in several important service projects including the MS Bikathon, Kids’ College at Blinn College‐Schulenburg Campus, tutoring, and the AMEN local food pantry. She also represented her community at Girls' State and 4‐H Congress. Her family is very proud of her!
Kyla Lynn, Daughter of Chris Lynn, CED of Cherokee, Rusk, Smith, Upshur & Gregg Counties
Kyla Lynn is the daughter of Chris and Kim Lynn. Chris is the CED for Cherokee‐Rusk and Smith‐Upshur‐ Gregg Counties. Kyla was the Salutatorian for the 2016 Rusk High School graduating class. She played varsity volleyball and was a student athletic trainer. She was also a member of the National Honor Society, Leo Club, and Student Council. She will be attending Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches this fall to major In Nursing. Page 4 Scholarship Committee Report, cont. TASCOE Tales
Colton Wayne Meadows, Son of Tracy D. Meadows, CED of Wise & Montague Counties
Colton is the son of Tracy Meadows and Stacie Meadows Witt. His father, Tracy has worked for USDA‐FSA for 29 years and is currently employed as the County Executive Director for the Wise and Montague FSA Of ices. Colton is a graduate of Boyd High School and will be attending Hardin Simmons University this fall and will be playing baseball for the Hardin Simmons Cowboys. Colton has had an active High School career and is an avid athlete. He has enjoyed participating in Varsity Athletics all four years, including football, basketball, track and baseball. He has received Academic All‐District Honors for his varsity partici‐ pation and was the Second Team All‐District DH in Baseball his freshman year. Colton’s other High School activities included being a member of Beta Club and National Honor Society. He has been in‐ volved in Student Council as a student representative as well as a mentor in the elementary and intermediate schools at Boyd ISD. Colton is an active member of the FBC of Paradise, Texas. Colton has enrolled in the pre‐medical program at Hardin Simmons University where he is pursuing a career in orthopedic surgery.
Lyric Norman, Daughter of Monica Cuevas, PT of Pearsall County
Hello my name is Lyric Justice Norman I will be graduating from Pearsall high school June 3, 2016 in Pearsall, TX. I have been accepted to attend the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and major in Biology in the fall semester of 2016. During my high school years as a freshman and a sophomore I was a junior varsity player on the Lady Mav‐ erick Volleyball Team, during my junior and senior year I was a Varsity player on the Lady Maverick Vol‐ leyball Team, junior varsity Lady Maverick track & ield my freshman and sophomore year, my senior year I was part of the varsity Lady Maverick track & ield team and a junior varsity player my freshman year for the Lady Maverick softball team, my sophomore through senior year a varsity player for the Lady Maverick Varsity Softball team, I was a Varsity Cheerleader for the Maverick Varsity football team beginning as a freshman and earned the position my senior year as Captain of my squad for the 2015‐2016 year. I was voted and held the position as class President my sophomore through my senior year, I have been a member of student council for three years and was voted President of student council my senior year. I was a member of the Pearsall mighty maverick marching band and played the clarinet 1st chair, our mighty maverick marching band made it to State competition my junior. I have spent countless hours beginning in junior high school as a volun‐ teer with the Cops for Tots child safety ingerprinting and the Cops for Tots school supply fundraiser, the aging program of Frio County with senior disability and elderly in daycare so that their caregivers may have an evening off and at the Frio County Nursing and rehab facility during Christmas helping the elderly with gift wrapping. I plan to further my education upon graduating from UTSA with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Biology and attending medical school to specialize in orthopedic surgery.
Corder Doss Norris, Son of Cody Norris, CED Brown County
Corder is the son of Cody and Molly Norris. His father, Cody has worked for USDA‐FSA for 30 years and is currently employed at the Brown County FSA Of ice. Corder is a graduate of Coleman High School and will be attending Tarleton State University this fall and will be playing football for the Tarleton State Texans. Corder has had an active High School career and is an avid athlete. He has enjoyed participating in Varsity Athletics all four years, including football, basketball, track and baseball. He was Team Captain for Football his Sophomore, Junior and Senior years. He has received many District and Area honors in football and basketball. He was a part of the 3‐A State Track and Field Championship Team from Coleman his Junior Year. Corder is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and par‐ ticipated in the FCA All Star Basketball Game in June. Corder’s other High School activities included being a member of FFA and participating on the Land Judging Team as well as serving as Secretary his Sophomore year. Corder was a member of the CHS Student Council and was chosen to attend West Texas Rehabilitation Center’s Camp Rehab as a Camp Counselor his Sophomore year, in addition to other STUCCO community activities. Corder was a member of the CHS National Honor Society and he earned the “C” Award (high point) for Mathematics for three years. He was chosen Coleman Rotary Club Boy of the Month for March 2016. Corder has enrolled in the Engineering Program at Tarleton State, but is also considering majoring in Mathematics with the intent to teach and coach. He plans to complete his initial core courses while determining which career path to take.
Scholarship Auction
We challenge each district to bring at least one silent auc on and one live auc on item to Granbury in July! The scholarship auc on is how we fund scholarships each year ‐ the more we make the more we give!! Start your auc on item gathering now and let’s make 2016 a record year!! Page 5 Special NASCOE Publicity Report TASCOE Tales
On April 5, the course of the week, I was part of that decision “Who’s Who” of FSA, and I cannot tell you how I got a ‐making process and my voice was heard. What exciting it was to be a part of these discussions. It phone call an honor to serve as the voice of NASCOE! is surreal to put a face and a personality with the from NAS‐ names that we see on national notices and e‐ Our meetings began with a general session where COE Presi‐ mails from headquarters. While they may not we were introduced to our fellow committee dent Wes spend their days in a county of ice working with members, of which I cannot speak highly enough. Daniels producers, I can assure you that they care about This committee consists of top‐notch FSA em‐ asking if I FSA employees and the customers we serve. I ployees ranging from PT’s to an SED representing would be must admit that I have doubted this in the past, all corners of the US. It was so interesting not willing to but after my week in Washington DC, I am con i‐ only to meet these outstanding colleagues, but represent dent that they want our input and will genuinely also to hear their perspective on the IT issues NASCOE listen to our concerns and suggestions. faced in their local of ices. The committee was on the then addressed by Greg Diephouse, Deputy Ad‐ I remember when I was still a COT and Darvin newly ministrator for Field Operations, Darren Ash, Collins called and asked me to put together a formed IT Chief Information Of icer, and numerous other TASCOE Christmas card to be distributed to all Steering WDC and KCMO staff members. When we broke Texas FSA employees. Little did I know that this Committee. I questioned whether I was the right out into sub‐committee meetings, the farm pro‐ seemingly minor task would snowball and carry person for the job, but with Wes’s encourage‐ grams meeting was facilitated by Brad Pfaff, Dep‐ me into a national chair position with NASCOE ment, I decided to take advantage of this great uty Adminis‐ and a seat on a national IT Steering Committee. opportunity. He informed me that the irst trator for My involvement with this association has intro‐ meeting was in Washington DC and that I need‐ Farm Pro‐ duced to some truly amazing people that I am ed to book a light for April 17, less than two grams. On proud to call friends and offered numerous op‐ weeks away. I was honored to have been asked the inal day, portunities I would not have otherwise had. If to serve, but I was also nervous about the re‐ FSA Adminis‐ you are not a TASCOE/NASCOE member, I hope sponsibility of representing over 5,000 NAS‐ that you will reconsider your decision and be‐ trator Val COE members across the country. come a part of our family. I can promise that the Dolcini came dues you pay are worth nothing compared to the Since beginning my career with FSA, I have in and lis‐ friendships, the experiences, and the opportuni‐ wanted to visit the nation’s capital and see the tened as we ties that come with active membership. If you are buildings where policy is written and decisions presented a member, I encourage you to get involved as a are made. Washington DC has always seemed the recom‐ chair or director, or maybe even just a volunteer like another world that I can only imagine in mendations at this year’s convention. Take that irst step to‐ the context of the latest political drama on TV we had ward getting more involved…you never where it (think Scandal or House of Cards…scary!). But, agreed upon. could lead! thanks to NASCOE, I was able to do so much This meeting more than walk the streets as a tourist. Over was the Kristal Rater NASCOE Publicity Chair
Happy Summer TASCOE Members! Membership Committee Report It’s summer in Texas, which aging re‐enrollment. Our Associate members means heat, humidity, more are an integral part of heat, and CONVENTION. TASCOE and include Our annual convention is a STO employees, tempo‐ great time for fellowship raries, retired employ‐ between friends, family and ees, federal employees, colleagues. Convention is and anyone else that also a recruitment tool. I wants to join! As stated encourage each of you to in the letter, “Our asso‐ attend this year’s conven‐ ciate membership is one tion as well as reach out to of the largest in the na‐ our “newbies” and try to get tion and we take pride them to attend as well. It in this and hope that will be a worthwhile experi‐ you do also.” ence for all attendees. A quick reminder for our Hope to see everyone in Granbury! current, past and future As‐ sociate members…letters Darrin Watkins were mailed out to each Membership Chair Associate member encour‐ Page 6 Legislative Committee Report TASCOE Tales
e are privileged to report a We ALL know that we truly get the work done Remember NASCOE relies on voluntary Legislative/Leadership with less. We always have and we always will. We contributions from the members because the Conference to Washington DC is should be proud, but at the same time we Federal Law prohibits NASCOE from using dues planned for September 2016. appreciate and thank our advocates who can and funds for political purposes. So if you are not WTASCOE delegates will atte nd. This training will will share our thoughts, our worries and alert us already a member of the Political Action better equip the TASCOE team with tools it needs of what is to come. NASCOE is working for us Committee (PAC), become a member today. to grow and maintain membership and develop making sure we get the help we need. Contributions to the PAC are another way for all into an effective voice to FSA management. members to be legislatively involved from home. We have many opportunities as an association in We look to build the future by put‐ting NASCOE Attendees will work with other FSA employees the form of our PAC, more eyes and more ears PAC dollars in places that will help advance the across the nation, focusing on the legislative will listen. Remember, we rely on you to get out interests of our em‐ployees. Think of your PAC issues facing FSA and its employees. Legislative the message about our agency and that can be contribution as an investment in your future. team members will make time to inform done when you become a PAC contributor. Texas congressional leaders, during an election year, has 39 PAC contributors, which is more than any Currently, any non‐contributor who starts with a about the vital role FSA and its employees have in other state, but we are big state and we all know $3 per/PP donation will get a $25 gift card. implementing farm policy for our farmers and we can add more. Below is a chart of the Anyone who increases their contribution by at ranchers. The group will be communicating FSA’s Southwest Area PAC participants and total least $3 per/PP will also get a $25 gift card. If you message, of courteous, cost ef icient and enrollment & PAC contributions from all NASCOE need assistance with an enrollment form, have dedicated producer service, to congressional members. questions about our agency’s PAC or would like leaders. to become a PAC contributor please contact Jackson Jones, NASCOE National Legislative Chair myself, Christa Kraatz (TASCOE Legislative Dedication starts at the highest level with our says it best about PACs, “PAC is no more than a Chair), at [email protected]; Robert Payne NASCOE President, Wes Daniels. He has said he separate checking account. They were started for (NASCOE SWA Legislative Chair) at is working on key issues like keeping temps, up‐ campaign inance and bring campaign spending [email protected] or Jackson Jones (NASCOE to‐date handbooks, travel budgets and the ever into the light. It is 100% ethical and Legislative Committee Chair) at growing OPM data breach. Mr. Daniel said, transparent…you can see exactly who is funding [email protected]. “NASCOE is actively trying to keep our temps a campaign. A PAC is used to make sure members working.” Also our leaders know updated of Congress who are aware of what we do stay in Our agency needs a voice. So let’s help make our handbooks are needed, Chris Beyerhelm, Congress. We are not buying votes, we are PAC the driving force so Congress will hear our Associate Administrator for Operations and contributing dollars to campaigns.” views and concerns, and debate those important Management, stated they agree and “have issues on our behalf. Let’s make those actions Mr. Jones also added, “NASCOE wouldn’t risk directed [their] team in DC to get all handbooks together. their reputation and a Congressman wouldn’t current.” risk their political career over a vote buying Don’t forget to VOTE. Most of the house and half Furthermore, Mr. Moorhead, said he would scandal. The NASCOE PAC is growing with over the senate is up for election. Since we are in address the national of ice about issues some $100,000 in the account. Every time we write a election season, OGC has provided guidance on states are having with limited travel budgets. Mr. check it creates impact.” the use of social media. Be aware that if you like Moorhead also mentioned that “the OPM breach or share any political content while on the clock, Our PAC is an important tool in our concerns is still an ongoing issue.” He stated that he was it is a violation of the Hatch Act! being heard. The PAC enrollment form can be personally aware of a former federal employee found on NASCOE’s website at: Remember as citizens of this great county we who was a victim of the breach and had $60,000 http://www.nascoe.org/Documents/Leg_PAC%2 have a privilege to vote and let our voices be debited from her personal banking accounts and 0Donor%20Form_06‐12‐13.pdf heard from your local Court House all the way to the loss was being attributed to the data breach. the White House. Get to that election booth! We So our membership should continue to be (from your home computer). Also contact the all get one vote, show up and make it count. vigilant.” Remember, leadership is listening and NASCOE website www.nascoe.org for further they do care. They are working and advocating information regarding NASCOE PAC. Christa Kraatz for us, and will continue to do so. Legislative Committee Chair
Southwest # of PAC $ Amt./PP Total PAC Enrollments Total PAC Contributions Area Participants California 420NWA 75 NWA $324 Nevada 00SWA 113 SWA $444 Arizona 27MWA 178 MWA $718 Utah 414NEA 26 NEA $100 Colorado 315SEA 171 SEA $700.00 New Mexico 937Total 563 Total/PP $2,286 Kansas 19 57 Oklahoma 33 148 Texas 39 146 This Data is accurate as of March 19, 2016 Hawaii 00 SWA Total 113 444
Page 7 Memorial Committee Report TASCOE Tales
ontinuing with annual tradition at the TASCOE (Texas Association of For planning and organizational purposes it is strongly encouraged and FSA County Of ice Employees) Convention, our Memorial Service very important that a photo (gif or jpeg), and the Memorial Service form C presentation remains a wonderful tribute to our employees that have (attached) please be submitted by email for each deceased individual. passed away since the previous year’s convention. This year’s TASCOE Please use the individual’s name in the subject line of the email, as well Convention will be in Granbury, TX. As many have seen in the past, the as, attaching the deceased photo(s) and/or funeral home website power point/video arrangement is set to inspirational music with photos when sending this information to Jeannine. (Contact and brief information about each deceased member. The FSA family that we [email protected] or call (940) 549‐6523, ext.106 for additional remember include: TASCOE, TASE & TACS members, employees from both information, questions or comments.) State and County levels Since photos are not always readily available in every situation, please including Committee make sure to contact the family and explain to them the recognition that members. It is a true TASCOE/NASCOE would like to give to their loved one, and request that blessing to be able to they provide you with a favorite photo of their loved one. (Jeannine has a present a Memorial formal letter that can be sent to the family upon your request to her.) All Service in this manner, information that is obtained by the TASCOE Memorial Service Committee but it takes YOU ALL to Chair will be passed onto the NASCOE Memorial Chairperson(s), so that make it happen. We individuals from Texas are also recognized at the annual NASCOE certainly cannot do this Convention this summer, as well. NASCOE will need to know if this person Memorial Service without was a NASCOE or TASCOE member and will include any other notes or your valuable assistance. interesting information about the deceased employee. Another valid Sadly, our FSA family can reason to complete the Memorial Service form to have all of the necessary earn their angel wings at information that is requested on this form. The Memorial Service form is any time, thus it is vitally on the www.tascoe.org website and/or can be obtained from any TASCOE important for you all to Director, Executive Of icer as well as from Jeannine and Keith. notify the Memorial With your ongoing support and assistance, we can make it another Service Committee as soon as possible by successful presentation. We thank you for this honor and privilege to submitting complete compile this memorial for you all each year as we re lect and remember information. Keith D. those fellow FSA family members that have departed before us within the Hiser and Jeannine P. past year, as they are gone but de initely not forgotten. Wendel co‐chair this committee for yet another Jeannine P. Wendel & Keith D. Hiser year, and are always looking for volunteers to assist them. A VERY special Co‐Chairs of the Memorial Committee “Thank You” to everyone who does assist them in this important effort in remembering our FSA family.
Awards Committee Report
Along with accepting and judging requested. The hours that are being particular category. For anyone that W e as the TASCOE Awards Distinguished Service Award recognized at the convention in July has submitted a nomination on a committee, would like to nominations, the Sick Leave awards were re lections on last July’s member in the past that was not congratulate the following have been updated and certi icates transmittals, so please turn those chosen, feel free to send those in honorees that will be awarded at and plaques have been ordered. transmittals in every year so that again. This might be their lucky our upcoming 2016 TASCOE TASCOE members that have we have an accurate count of sick year! Convention in Grandbury: accumulated over 1000 hours to leave hours on all members. We 2999 hours of sick leave are want all members to have the Also, you may at any time submit a Service to Community – rewarded with a certi icate. These recognition that they deserve! nomination for the “Extra Mile CED – Karla Hoelscher of Howard are awarded in 500 hour Award”‐ This award is for TASCOE County increments. If you have received a Now, for a quick note on our 2017 members or IMMEDIATE FAMILY PT ‐ Tonya R. Fulsom of Houston, certi icate for 1000 hours, you will awards! Our deadline has moved to members who go that "Extra Mile" Leon, & Madison Counties receive another award when you January 1, 2017 for next year’s DSA at work, home, or school. This reach 1500, and so on for 2000 and nominations. We ask that you start nomination form is also located on Service to FSA/Agriculture – 2500 hours. When you reach 3000 thinking about anyone that you the NASCOE website at CED Jeffrey P. Jacinto of Comanche hours or 3500 hours, you will would like to nominate now. We www.nascoe.org. Please don’t County receive a plaque. Any members that will accept those at any time from hesitate to call or email with any PT – Kerri Bobbitt of Archer County have reached these milestones that now until January 1, 2017. It questions, we will be happy to help will be attending the convention in sounds a little early, but we hope to in any way! Service to NASCOE/TASCOE – July, will be presented their get as many members as possible CED – Amy Hackler of Motley certi icate or plaque during the nominated. At our state level, we Thank you to the whole awards County convention on Saturday morning. award a CED and a PT for each of committee for your work. You gals For those that will not be attending, the three categories from above. are awesome! We would also like to congratulate we will send these to you via your From those winners, we choose one Amy Hackler and Karla Hoelscher TASCOE director for your district to from each category to submit to the Please email any nominations to for winning awards for Service to be handed out or mailed to you. A Southwest Area Chair for judging. [email protected] or NASCOE and Service to Community big THANK YOU goes out to CO‐ From that point, the SWA chair [email protected], or call at the NASCOE Southwest Area Chair Tanya Bell for taking on and submits the award winners to the Shonda Elliott at 806‐347‐2263 ext level! organizing the sick leave hours. National Level for consideration. 109 or Tanya Bell at 940‐549‐6523 These hours are collected each year Anyone that has received an award ext 2. when the dues transmittal is cannot be considered again in that Page 8 Publicity Committee Report TASCOE Tales
s convention time draws * Our legislative consultant Hunter During a Q&A session, with association, presented by the near, it is time to take a Moorhead is working to locate Administrator Dolcini and Deputy NASCOE President at the National A look at TASCOE temp funding for us. NASCOE is Administrator of Management, it Convention. If you have non‐ membership and participation. actively trying to keep our temps was stated that USA Jobs is very members in your county of ice, let’s Since Texas is not a 100% working. dif icult for applicants to use. KSA’s use the next 3 weeks to bring them membership state, then we know are going away. Management is into the TASCOE fold! that we have room for looking for input on what types of
improvement. That starts with “Where someone or some questions to use. If you have A PAC is used to make sure individual members and making group will clearly lose out in thoughts on this, submit them to members of Congress who are sure those members realize what a change and where that your State Execs. aware of what we do stay in TASCOE/NASCOE can/will do for group has considerable Congress. We are not buying votes, them, and then those members power to resist, over coming Leasing issues are a product of the we are contributing dollars to passing on that story to non‐ that resistance takes agency never having the adequate campaigns. NASCOE wouldn’t risk members. negotiation and agreement.” resources to be effective in their reputation and a processing new leases. FSA is doing Congressman wouldn’t risk their . . . Catherine Adenle Why join TASCOE/NASCOE? Well, about 80% of the leasing. Anyone political career over a vote buying here are just some highlights of THIS IS WHERE NASCOE with leasing issues is invited to scandal. The NASCOE PAC is what NASCOE has done for us lately COMES IN!! inform NASCOE and the growing with over $100,000 in the as stated in the All West Rally notes information will be forwarded account. Every time we write a from May in San Diego, and how directly to Deputy Administrator of check it creates impact. Currently, Texas/TASCOE is playing a role in Management . any non‐contributor who starts that. * There will be a notice forthcoming with a $3 per/PP donation will get a on Lead PT’s. NASCOE is strongly Craig Turner, NAFEC President $25 gift card. Anyone who Wes Daniels, NASCOE President, advocating for the promotion of stated that they are working on increases their contribution by at reports that: PT’s and CED’s. ways to increase participation and least $3 per/PP will also get a $25 diversity on our COCs with DC. gift card. If you are not * IT issues continue to be a concern. * RFS was mandated by Congress, contributing to the PAC, please Management has formed an IT but the Bridges ot Opportunity Jackson Jones, NASCOE Legislative consider doing so now! Steering Committee and NASCOE software tracks what we do better Chair reports that membership has a representative on the than RFS. NASCOE would be in affects all of us. We are at A Leadership and Legislative committee. Texas is fortunate to favor of streamlining RFS and approximately 80% nationwide. Conference will be held September have Kristal Rater on that steering incorporating it into the software 19‐21 in Washington DC with the committee. for other programs, or using goal of getting people ready to be something similar to the BTO your next state president, * NASCOE participated in the ACRSI software. Of 250,000 RFS entered, “If nothing ever changed, treasurer, area exec, etc. The focus process, and continues to have a 225,000 were from FSA while the there would be no will be on building membership. seat at the table as we move remainder was from NRCS and RD. butterflies.” Each state must send at least one through this big transition. There This shows that FSA is handling a new attendee to get a stipend. It is . . . unknown are some obstacles ‐ there will be a great deal of foot traf ic. While it recommended that each state send rough patch or two, but in the may be inconvenient to log the a maximum of 4‐6 attendees. Each meantime, let’s do what we do best. many receipts for service, this state must carry at least 1 new Don’t focus our energy on the ight, allows us to tell our story to DC and person who hasn’t attended prior but on getting the job done and may provide bene its to our agency It would take 389 new members to legislative conference to receive the providing excellent customer in time. Using RFS may help with get us up to 85%. Across these 50 full NASCOE stipend. service. workload and staf ing numbers. united states, that’s 8 new members/state. This would result The All West Rally winners for the NASCOE Vice‐President Dennis Ray in $21,000 more annual income to 50/50 raf le were announced in San reported on the duties of NASCOE NASCOE, as well as increased Diego. Third place prize drawing “Sometimes, good things Vice‐President. One of those duties income to the state association and went to TASCOE VP Morgan fall apart so better things is acting as the intermediary Area. Eight new members for Limmer $267.50. Last year, Morgan can fall together.” between NASCOE members and the Texas . . . soooo easy! Start telling won the NASCOE drawing for the NASCOE attorney. Anyone with your TASCOE story to non‐ car!! Congratulations Morgan!! . . . Marilyn Monroe issues should contact their state members in your District today! president, who will get in touch Respectfully submitted, with the area exec and then the Dillard Financial Solutions is NASCOE VP. These referrals are offering a special membership drive Carla Spencer As we venture into the CGCS very con idential and are handled for 2016 and beyond. The state Publicity Chair program, keep that positive, can‐do directly with the individual with the highest increase in new spirit. Again, Texas is fortunate to member after the referral is members, including associate have had our own in the trial stages received by NASCOE. As a membership, from July 1, 2015 to “Change is hardest at of software development. Thank reminder, NASCOE members have June 30, 2016 will receive a $1,000 the beginning, you to Darrin Watkins and the gals the bene it of one hour of free legal award sponsored by Dillard Messiest in the middle, from Gaines County that are consulting. Financial Solutions, Inc. The state representing the complexities of president will receive a plaque on And Best at the end.” Texas Cotton! behalf of his or her state . . . Robin Sharma Page 9 TASCOE Tales
DISTRICT 7 Hid algo a Cou nd nty C Jim ED Young County FSA gals par cipated Mu We John ller p lls C J H a erfor oun inoj in the Run for the Children 5k nd tr min ty P osa aini g s p T J unit. ng on ot c udith Saturday May 21, 2016. ne heck w G duti PS h es From le to right: Erin Collins, andh eld Landon Collins, Jeannine Wendel and Tanya Bell.
DISTRICT 3
A recent family gathering brought Kathy Williams, Childress Co. CED, together with her 3 sisters and Dad. In the last year, two of Kathy’s sisters have been battling breast cancer. DISTRICT 5 Kathy’s message: “From my family to yours, I just want to say to be The Alpine High School Mock Trial aware, have your checkups, stay Team went to State this year! Riley vigilant.” Spencer, son of Brewster/Jeff Davis/ Presidio Co. PT Carla Spencer and Chris Spencer, was a witness for the defense, and is pictured here on the front row, 2nd from the right. High DISTRICT 12 School Mock trial teams must be prepared to try both sides of a case, Ashley Stoddard, daughter of and get points for introducing Galveston/Brazoria Ac ng CED Julie evidence, making objections, Stoddard, placed 5th in her scramble approaching the bench, the ability of at Houston as well as winning her “lawyers” to trap witnesses, and for Brangus class. Ashley won 10th junior “witness’s” ability to avoid overall in livestock judging at answering incriminating questions. Tons of fun to watch these kids! Houston. Well done! Page 10 TASCOE Tales
DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 3 Jillian Wendel, daughter of Young Co Kathy Williams’s grandson, Nathan, just turned 2! Kathy is CED in CED Jeannine Wendel, received Childress Co. and finds it VERY outstanding awards from Graham DISTRICT 15 helpful when the young ‘uns are big FFA for the over 50 items sold in enough to start carrying their own fundraisers. She earns her FFA Rosalia Lucero Garcia, daughter of luggage! jacket and is named Green Hand Jim Wells/Brooks-Jim Hogg CED Secretary . Congrats Jillian! Jennifer Garcia and Carlos Omar Garcia, graduated Valedictorian of Agua Dulce High School with honors, and was named a Distinguished Scholar. She is headed to Sam Houston State University.
DISTRICT 12
Brooke Stoddard, daughter of DISTRICT 5 Galveston/Brazoria Ac ng CED Julie Brooklyn Batla, daughter of Stoddard, won 3rd in her ARB class Glasscock Co PT Carol Hoelscher, DISTRICT 13 graduated in May. Brooklyn is in San Antonio, 2nd in Houston, Houston County CED, Darvin and headed to College Station in the Fall Reserve Champ SR Division in Betty Collins are proud to announce to start the next chapter in her life. Houston, 1st in her ARB class in the HS graduation of their daughter Brooklyn is ready - her mom sure is Amy Collins from Rusk High Aus n, and Champ SR Division in going to miss her! School. Amy will be attending Tyler Aus n with her heifer. Brooke also Jr. College to enroll in the dental won a calf scramble cer ficate in hygienist program. Houston. Page 11 TASCOE Tales
DISTRICT 15 Cameron County (San Benito) DISTRICT 7 Service Center employees hosting a Baby Shower for Karla Garza, FLOT, Jones County office staff honored on March 23, 2016. Jeanene Benne , PT, with a wonderful re rement recep on a er her 31 years of superb service to farmers and ranchers. Pictured L to R: Michelle Holland, Debbie Cathey, Jeanene Benne , Emery Letz, Joe Hefner, Karen Leschper and DISTRICT 9 Ronda Weaver Cash Dale, son of Hopkins-Delta CED LaCresha Dale and husband Whit, won 2nd place at his first t-ball tournament in Mineola, TX. Go Raptors!!
Amy H rec ack en ler ram K tly t , C og S. ra ED Pr C Amy nsf of ty! o. ha err M un si s ed otl E Co mi nce be t o ey OM Lee wn sse 2 en S a Co ES e/ Da M d 00 the int un W e ot by 7, C F r ty, A ay sky, Kay ley D an ED anci f F hal , Co ist d w in s s o ic pp We . p rict ill M , The ian M ali w roduce 3 be otle nic ia G n ish g y ch th a ew y rs and rea Te Cyn liss adv ou . a tly : e en the ll R M lue tur v the to n, eB e, er L an ri L Amy y be ffm Lo ! st Ho ck, on iela th Sch is Page 12 TASCOE Tales
DISTRICT 5 Harlie Anne Fort, daughter of Pecos/ Terrell, Brewster/Jeff Davis/Presidio CED Mimi Fort, joined us on February DISTRICT 13 2 weighing in at 6 lbs, 10 oz. Harlie is already proving to District 5 just Pictured is Charlotte Watkins (2nd grade) how tough she is! with her Mom Rachel Watkins & DISTRICT 9 firemen Nick Strauss. Charlotte was Cash Dale, son of Hopkins-Delta CED presented with a first place trophy after LaCresha Dale and husband Whit, winning the Regional fire safety art graduates from the Emory Baptist contest. Her work has now advanced to Sonbeam Day School. state. Charlotte is the daughter of Rachel & Darrin Watkins of Edna.
DISTRICT 15
Elizabeth Garcia, daughter of Duval/ Webb County CED Martin Garcia and Sylvia Garcia, graduated as a DISTRICT 7 distinguished student with honors from Agua Dulce. She is headed to Joseph Wendel, far right, son of College Station for phase 2! Young County CED Jeannine Wendel, competed in Texas FFA CDEs. The team placed 12th in Range Evalua on, 9th in Plant ID, and 7th in Co on Classifica on. Joseph is on DISTRICT 3 both the plant and range teams. Evan Bailey, son of Foard/Hardeman Good job Graham FFA!! CED Amy Lindsey, graduated from Vernon High School in May. He’s headed to West Texas A&M this Fall. TASCOE COMMITTEE DISTRICT TASCOE DIRECTORS CHAIRS Do you have questions about TASCOE/NASCOE? Do you have suggestions about how to make your day‐to‐day FSA job better? Awards Shonda Elliott Do you have a concern about your rights/responsibilities as an FSA employee?
Wondering what your employee association has been up to? Bene its Morgan Limmer Reach out to these folks ‐ any of them ‐ they are here for you!!!
Door Prizes District 11 Debra Crutcher District 1 District 6 Tina Crofford Adam Acker Keith Hiser Nacogdoches/Angelina/Trinity/ Scholarship/Emblems Potter County Mitchell County Shelby/San Augustin County Julie Goetzman [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Finance District 2 District 7 District 12 Keith Hiser Jerry Thurman Jeannine Wendel Kay Schielack Hale County Young County Fayette/Lee County Legislative [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Christa Kraatz District 3 District 8 District 13 Membership Kathy Williams Mike Maedgen Grady Kelley Darrin Watkins Childress County McLennan County Karnes/Dewitt County [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Programs LaCresha Dale District 4 District 9 District 14 Debra Crutcher Julie Nation Brian Hanson Publicity Terry County Red River County Bexar County Carla Spencer [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Webmaster District 5 District 10 District 15 Kristal Rater Karla Hoelscher Beth Bataillon Jennifer Garcia Howard County San Saba/Mills County Jimm Wells/Brooks‐Jim Hogg NAFEC [email protected] [email protected] County Bo Epting [email protected]