The Biennial Convention made history as delegates were re-elected by acclamation as leaders for the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees and the Union movement of the 21^st century.  The Convention was held September 25-28 and hosted two major conferences to discuss how to maintain the momentum and to continue to increase strength of the working people.

Unionists attended a forum which discussed strategies and best practices to form our new subdivision Next Wave and getting our youth educated and involved in the Union.  Delegates were able to discover ways in which to connect our youth by transitioning from old ways of thinking to seeking to appeal to the interest of youth. Members discovered by simply educating youth on the Union and opening a conversation and inviting them to participate in Local Union meetings and political activities that effect them might be a doorway to getting the involved.

At the State and Local Conference on September 26, two major elements lead the conference; political power through PEOPLE and organizing to strengthen our power through Next Wave.  Delegates and members engaged in a breakout session which further detailed the PEOPLE program and how it dictates our future of our elected officials by helping them get elected and holding them accountable. Also members explored the benefits of the recently proposed Health care Bill by President Barack Obama and explored the realms if not passed.

To prepare for the new challenges of the next for years members voted on Sunday the best candidates to lead this organization on the state and Local level. Our Executive Director, Glen Middleton along with  President, Dale Chase , Vice President, Dennis Landis , Treasurer, Peggy Peacock , Secretary, Dorothy Bryant, The Executive Board of Council 67;  Doug Levine, Janie Johnson, Michael Pyles, Jewel Dozier, and Mary Pat Whiteley were all re-elected to serve as our effective leaders of this great Union.

We congratulate all of you on these Winning Elections!!!

Let’s make a productive transition in this Union by getting our youth involved and staying grounded on the grass root foundations ; power in numbers, political power, and great leadership!