From Stormy Seas to Smooth Sailing...Charting the Course of Labor Relations

2017 Annual Training Conference Long Beach, CA April 23 - 27

• WinningwithIntegrity• ReasonableAccommodation• PractitionerWellBeing• StrategiesforSkilled

Negotiators• SupersizedLeaves• GrievanceArbitration

• Mediation101• What’sNextfortheACA• BootCampforBeginners• DueProcess• BargainingPerspectivesfrom

ManagementandtheUnion• LaborRelationsJeopardy

• NutsandBoltsofInterestArbitration

• TransgenderIssues• FLSA• PastPractice• OpioidsintheWorkplace• Andmuchmore!

OnbehalfoftheNationalPublicEmployerLaborRelationsAssociation(NationalPELRA),thepremierorganizationforpublicsectorlaborrelationsandhumanresourcesprofessionals,itismypleasureandhonortoinviteyoutoattendour46thAnnualTrainingConference

(ATC),From Stormy Seas to Smooth Sailing... Charting the Course of Labor Relations,April23–27,2017inLongBeach,CA.

Ipersonallywanttothankthe2017ATCCommitteeChair,MelanieAultofMinnesota,Vice-Chair,MichaelCrottyofIllinois,andallcommitteemembers–ShanteAkafiaofTexas,StormyBrownofAlaska,HaroldCatesofTexas,AndrewHainesofDelaware,DawnHustonofOhio,LynnGorskiofMinnesota,andSeanRobinson,NationalPELRAExecutiveDirector.Thepreparationforaconferenceofthisscaleisalargeundertaking,andweallappreciatetheirefforts.IalsowanttoextendabigthankyoutotheNationalPELRAstafffortheirsupportoftheCommittee’sworkandtheNPELRAorganization.Finally,specialthankstoourconferencesponsors,whosegenerousmonetarycontributionsassistinmakingtheconferenceagreatevent.

TheNationalPELRAAnnualTrainingConferenceisanimportantlearningandnetworkingexperienceforanylaborrelationsandhumanresourcesprofessional.Lastyeartherewasarecordnumberoffirsttimeattendeesandwehopetoseethatnumber,aswellastheconferenceattendance,grow.Theconferenceprogramfeaturesavarietyoftimelyandrelevantsessiontopicsfortheinexperiencedtothemoreadvancedprofessional.Thereare36educationalsessionsandworkshopsoverthreefulldaysspecificallydesignedtoprovideanin-depthlookatthetopicsandissuesofgreatestimportancetopublicsectorlaborrelationsandhumanresourcesprofessionals.Therearealsotargetedpre-andpost-conferenceAcademies,apre-conferenceworkshoptoextendyourlearning,andwewillalsobeadministeringtheCertifiedLaborRelationsProfessional(CLRP®)Examfollowingtheconference.Comeandlearnabout:

Thisisanexceptionalopportunitytobeinstructedbyexpertsinthefield,whileinteractingwithcolleaguesfromthroughoutthecountry.ByattendingtheATC,youwillbecomebetterequippedwiththelatestknowledgeandskillstopositivelyimpactyourself,yourfellowHRcolleagues,andyourorganization.

IfyouarenotalreadyamemberofNationalPELRA,wewelcomeyoutoconsidermembershipwithournationalorganization.Joinover2,500professionalsfromnearlyeverystateinthecountryandtakeadvantageofnotonlytheAnnualTrainingConference,butalsocost-effectivewebinars,laborrelationsAcademies,informativemonthlynewsletters,anonlinedatabasetoassistindevelopingcontractandpolicylanguage,andmuchmore.

Iamconfidentthatattendingour2017ATCwillbeaneducationalandgratifyingexperienceforyouandIlookforwardtoseeingyouinLongBeachinApril!

MicheleGreenNPELRA President

Dear Colleagues:

GENERAL SESSIONS

Winning with integrity

Presented by Ross Bernstein

Inanengaging,provocative,andvisuallyentertainingstyle,Rosswilluseinspirationalstoriesandpoignantlifelessonsfromtheworldofsports. Ross’sprogramisbasedonaseriesofbookshewroteinwhichhewasabletointerviewmorethan500professionalathletesandcoachesthatallhadonethingincommon—theywereallmembersofchampionshipteams.Inhisresearchheconcludedthatthesamemetricsandcharacteristicsthatwerecommonamongchampionsinsports,werealsocommoninpeakperformersinbusiness.Atthecoreofhismessageisthesimplefactthatweliketodobusinesswithpeoplewhowetrust,whowelike,andwhojust“getit”—CHAMPIONS.

Collective Bargaining & Interest Arbitration Trends and Developments

Presented by Robert J. Smith

RobertJ.Smith,Jr.,apartnerwithClarkBairdSmithLLP,willdiscussnation-widepublicsectorbargainingtrendsandinterestarbitrationdevelopments,includingtheresultsofthelatestNPELRAAnnualCollectiveBargainingSurvey.Bobwillalsoaddresstheimpactofthe2016nationalelections,andidentifykeyprioritiesforyoutoconsiderinyourupcominglabornegotiations.Learnaboutnationwidesettlementtrendsinthepublicsector,recentinterestarbitrationawardsinvolvingpublicsafetyemployees,andkeybargainingobjectivestomaximizeflexibilitytoaddressuncertaintimes.

The FLSA – Recent Changes You Need to Know

Presented by Peter Brown

PeterBrownisbackagaintopresentontheFLSA.HewilldiscussFLSAcasesthatareontheriseandhowyouragency’scontinuedcompliancewiththeFLSAcanavoidcostlywageclaims.AttendeeswilllearnaboutrecentFLSAdecisionsandchangesinthelaw,identifyupdatesthatmayhaveaneffectontheiragencies,includingoff-the-clockwork,traveltime,andworkschedules,andheartipsonhowtoavoidliabilityandproblems.Learnhowtonegotiateforchangesinthelaw;howtoavoidliabilityfromthesechangesinthelaw,andstrategiesforensuringcompliancewiththechangesinthelaw.

Managing Through A Crisis: The Fox Lake Incident

Presented by Anne Marrin and Yvette Heintzelman

Asmallresortcommunityreceivednationalattentionwhenapolicelieutenantwaskilled.Policepersonnelcamefromacrossthecountrytoparticipateinthemanhunt.Later,itwasdiscoveredthathestagedthehomicideafterembezzlingmoneyfromtheExplorerPost.Now,hiswifehasbeenchargedwithconspiracytodefraudacharitableorganization.Howdidthishappentoacommunityof10,000residents?Thispresentationwillfocusonhowanewlyappointedadministratormanagedthroughthecrisisandsubsequentinvestigations,maintainingservicesandpersonnelwhileundernationalmediascrutiny.

Legal Update

Presented by Kenneth Weinstock

Learnabouttheimportantcourtandadministrativeagencydecisionsfromthepastyearinaninteractive,funandinformativesession.JoinAttorneyKennethWeinstock,whoformanyyearshasbeenourclosingspeaker,whowillpresentsignificantandsometimesunusualdecisionsinauniqueinformativesession.Learnhowyouandotherpublicemployershavebeenaffectedbythesedecisionsandhearsomepracticalguidancethatyoucantakebacktoyouragency.Reviewshaveconsistentlyratedthisa“mustattend”sessionsoplanyourtravelsoyoucanattendthisclosingsession.

Management Development for the 21st Century

Presented by Keith Friede

Developingeffectivemanagementskillsiscriticallyimportanttoeverypublicsectororganizationinrealizingemployeeengagementandorganizationalsuccess,especiallywithanewgenerationofemployeessteppingintomanagementrolesforthefirsttime.Inthissession,we’lladdressissueslikemanagerialflexibility,alignmentofworkstyles,buildinginternalcommitment,managementvs.leadership,usingstyleassessmentsproperly,skillpractice,actionlearningandthe20-20-60factor(andmuchmore!)tohelpyoutakeyourmanagementdevelopmentinitiativestoamuchhigherlevelasakeydriveroforganizationaleffectiveness...byimprovingthecontentofthoseinitiativesandtheprocessesusedtodeliverthem.

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SUNDAY UUUUUUUUUU7:00 am - 3:00 pm R NPELRA’s Annual Golf Tournament

GrabyourclubsandjoinNPELRAattheLinksatVictoriatonetworkwithfriends,colleagues,andconferencesponsorsatNPELRA’sAnnualGolfTournament.ThisisyourchancetohaveyournameimmortalizedonthePELRACup.Anyonecanplayandallskilllevelsarewelcome.Participantswillbetransportedviabusfromthehoteltothecourse.Included:transportation,breakfast,greenandcartfees,tournamentgameswithprizes,andlunch.Cometeeoffwithus!(Separate registration is required. $90)

7:30 am - 4:00 pm R NPELRA’s Academy III: The nEGOTIATION pROCESS

ThisAcademyfocusesonthenegotiationsprocesswithasimulationinvolvingeconomic,reclassification,andbenefitissuesthatgivesparticipantsanopportunitytosharpentheirnegotiatingskills.Learnhowtodealwithissuessuchasthetimingofsettlements,impassestrategies,andmulti-yearcontracts.(Separate registration is required. $299 Members / $399 Non-Members)

12:00 pm - 3:30 pm R Conference Check-in Ifyouarriveearly,beattheMondaymorningrush-stopbytheRegistrationDesktopickupyourregistrationmaterialsandyourbadgetoenterSundaynight’sWelcomeReception.Arrivinglaterthan3:30?PickupyourregistrationmaterialsattheFirstTimers’orWelcomeReception.

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm R ADA Employee Accommodations: Unraveling the

Chaos, Creating Compliant Solutions Rachel Shaw, President | Shaw HR Consulting (Emerald Sponsor)Thishighoctane,solutions-focusedpresentationwilladdresstherealitiesofwherewearewithemployeraccommodationobligationsunderTitleIoftheADA/ADAAA.Rachelisnationallyknownasadynamic,enjoyableandknowledgeableexpertinADAandleavemanagement.Shewillexpertlyguideyouthroughhowtocreateorenhanceyourdisabilitycomplianceprogramtoensurethatyourorganizationiscompliant,efficient,andeffectiveindealingwithyourgrowingnumberofrequestsforworkandleaveaccommodations.Shewilladdressthedifficultaccommodationmattersrelatedtoon-goingintermittentleaves,psychologicaldisabilities,andemployee/supervisorconflictsintheworkplace.Youwon’twanttomissthishighlyanticipatedworkshop,deliveredbyanaudiencefavorite.Youwillleavefeelingempowered,entertained,andwithtangibletoolstoenhanceyourorganization’sgoodwork.(Separate registration is required. $99)

4:30 pm - 5:30 pm R First Timers’ Reception AttentionallFirst-TimeConferenceattendees!TakethetimetogrababeverageandgettoknowyourfellowATCfirst-timersattheFirstTimers’Reception.HostedbytheNPELRABoardofDirectors,StatePELRAPresidents,andpastNationalPresidents,thisisyourchancetoattendanetworkingeventmeanttoconnectyouwiththeNPELRAleadershipandpromotecommunicationacrossthepublicsectorlaborrelationsindustry.Makingafriendortwoisthebestwaytostartoffourconference,sowehopetoseeyouthere!(BADGE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY)

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm R Welcome ReceptionTopreparefor3daysoflearning,analyzing,andtraining,takethetimetogetoutandmeetyourpeersfacetofaceatthisyear’sWelcomeReception.Startthe2017ATCbybuildingupyournetwork,catchingupwitholdfriends,andgettingtoknownewones.Therewillbefood,fun,andthe(almost)always-beautifulSouthernCaliforniaweather.Don’tmissout!(BADGE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY)

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MONDAY UUUUUUUUUUUUUU7:30 am - 8:30 am R Networking Continental Breakfast (BADGE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY)

7:30 am - 3:30 pm R Conference Check-in

7:30 am - 4:00 pm R Exhibit Area

8:30 am - 9:00 am R President’s WelcomeMichele Green, NPELRA President and Employee/Labor Relations Manager | Sarasota County Government, Sarasota, FL

9:00 am - 10:15 am Plenary Session

P1 R Winning with Integrity

Ross Bernstein, Author/Owner | Ross Bernstein Speaking, Apple Valley, MNInanengaging,provocative,andvisuallyentertainingstyle,Rosswilluseinspirationalstoriesandpoignantlifelessonsfromtheworldofsports. Ross’programisbasedonaseriesofbookshewroteinwhichhewasabletointerviewmorethan500professionalathletesandcoachesthatallhadonethingincommon—theywereallmembersofchampionshipteams.Inhisresearchheconcludedthatthesamemetricsandcharacteristicsthatwerecommonamongchampionsinsports,werealsocommoninpeakperformersinbusiness.Ashelearned,championshaveaveryuniqueDNA—andhisgoalinthiskeynotesessionistogetaudiencemembersthinkingabouttheirownDNA—andabouttheDIFFERENTIATORStheypossesswhichwouldultimatelyleadcustomerstoCHOOSEtodobusinesswiththem.Atthecoreofhismessageisthesimplefactthatweliketodobusinesswithpeoplewhowetrust,whowelike,andwhojust“getit”—CHAMPIONS.

10:35 am - 11:50 am Concurrent Sessions

C1 R ADA And Mental Health Issues: How Public Employers Can Successfully Navigate The Interactive Process

Brad Howard, Attorney | Brown & Fortunato, Amarillo, TXPublicemployersoftenconfrontverydifficultleaveissueswhenanemployeewithaclaimeddisabilityrequestsreasonableaccommodationssuchasadditionalemployeeleaveormodifiedjobduties.Areyourequiredtoprovidetheseaccommodations?Whenandhowcanyousayno?Howcanyoudisciplineorfireaproblememployeewithaclaimeddisability?Whatcanyoudotoprotectyourorganization?Inthisentertainingandinteractivediscussion,employmentattorneyBradHowardwillraisesomedifficultemploymentquestions,outlinethemostrecentADAcourtcasesandlegalprecedent,anddiscussanythingthat’sonyourmind.

C2 R Your Well-being Matters!

Ruth Donahue, Vice President - Consultant | Segal Consulting, Chicago, IL (Silver Sponsor)Christopher Goldsmith, Vice President - Consultant | Segal Consulting, Cleveland, OH (Silver Sponsor)Humanresourcesprofessionalsknowthatthekeytotheirorganization’ssuccessliesintheirpeople.Thewell-beingofemployeesdirectlyinfluencestheirworkbehavior,performanceandjobsatisfaction.Understandingtheprimarydeterminantsofwell-being,forHRprofessionalsandhowtheirwell-beinginfluencesthebroaderworkforce,iscriticaltoHR’sroleinfosteringhealthyandproductiveworkingenvironments.

C3 R The Power of Persuasion

Ron Holifield, CEO | Strategic Government Resources, Keller, TX (Silver Sponsor)Leaderswhoprimarilyrelyonauthoritytoleadcangaincompliance,butcanneverachievecommitment.Usingpersuasionenablestheleadertoachieveauthenticcommitmenttothemission,visionandvaluesoftheorganizationandachievefarhigherperformanceandmoresustainableresultsthanwithtraditionalmeans.

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C4 R Strategies for Stalled NegotiationsLisa Callaway, Partner | Engler Callaway Baasten & Sraga, Oak Brook, ILEverynegotiator,seasonedornot,hitsthatbumpintheroadwherenegotiationsstall.Itmaybeaspecificissuethathandicapstheparties’abilitytomoveforward,oritmaybeduetopersonalityconflictsorunidentifiedunionobjectives.Thekeytoasuccessfulnegotiationisensuringthatmanagementdoesnot“blink”firstwhenthebigissuescomeintoplayandtheprocessslows.Attendthissessiontolearnstrategiesyoucanuseinyourorganization’snegotiationstoachievemoresuccessfuloutcomes.

12:00 pm - 1:15 pm Robin Hall Memorial Annual Awards Luncheon

1:30 pm - 2:45 pm Concurrent Sessions

C6 R Maximizing Retirement Readiness for Public Sector Employees

Glenn Sherman, Vice President | ICMA-RC, Washington, DC (Bronze Sponsor)Kathleen Wilson, Senior Education & Communications Manager | ICMA-RC, Washington, DC (Bronze Sponsor)Thissessionwillprovideanoverviewofproposedcommunicationapproachesforplansponsorstouse,inconjunctionwiththeirplanprovider,overthelifecycleofaparticipantinadeferredcompensation/definedcontributionplan,tomaximizetheirretirementreadiness.Keylifecycleeventsincludeenrollment,investing,accumulating,transitioningintoretirement,andgeneratingsustainablelifetimeincome.

C7 R Supersized Leaves: A Supervisor’s Guide to Handling Excessive Leave Requests

Pam Lee, Partner | Aleshire & Wynder, Irvine, CA (Bronze Sponsor)Laura Walker, Partner | Aleshire & Wynder, Irvine, CA (Bronze Sponsor)ThissessiondiscussescircumstancessuchaswhenemployeesareentitledtoleaveunderFMLA,ADA,andotherstatutoryleavelaws,whentheleavebecomesexcessive,andwhatrightsandobligationsbothemployersandemployeeshaveregardingleave.Participantswillreceivepracticalguidanceonrespondingtoandhandlingexcessiveleaverequests.

C8 R Mission Possible: How to Improve Your Chances in Grievance Arbitration

Todd Lyon, Attorney | Fisher & Phillips, Portland, OR (Silver Sponsor)Grievancearbitrationcanseemlikeachallenge,butifyouhavepreparedyourcasewell,yourconfidenceintheprocesswillallowyoutocrackthecodeandachieveyourobjectives.Attendeeswillhavetheopportunitytoworkwithothersinhands-onactivitiesemphasizingusingthegrievancemeetingforarbitrationpreparation,documentevaluation,anddecipheringrulesofjustcauseandcontractinterpretation.Throughthisexcitingprogram,attendeeswilllearnhowtoanalyze,respondandpreparegrievancesforanoptimalresult.

C9 R Basic Mediation Skills: Navigating Everyday Conflicts

Stormy Brown, Director of Human Resources | Kenai Peninsula Borough, Soldotna, AKConflicthappens!Forlaborrelationsexperts,humanresourcesspecialists,managersandhumansingeneral-conflictispartofeachday.Inthissession,we’llspendsometimepeelingbackthelayersofhumanconflictandlearningtoolsthatwillhelpusgettothebottomofwhat’sreallygoingon.Usingthebasicsofmediationskills,we’llexplorehoweachofuscaninformallymediateconflictandfacilitatebetteroutcomes.Thisinteractivesessionwillhaveyououtofyourchairsandrollingupyoursleevesaswe“worktogethertoworkitout.”

NPELRa’s guidEbook wiLL bE avaiLabLE agaiN foR thE 2017 atc! doN’t foRgEt to dowNLoad thE aPP aNd havE aLL matERiaLs,

schEduLE, aNd moRE Right at youR fiNgERtiPs. comPLEtE dEtaiLs wiLL bE dELivEREd to aLL attENdEEs.

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C10 R Technology Tips and Traps in the Public Workplace

Brandon M. Fitzsimmons, Shareholder Attorney | Flaherty & Hood, St. Paul, MNTechnologyisevolvingasanindispensabletoolinthepublicworkplaceforoverallemployeeandpublicengagement,andtoensurethepublicentitesoperatessafely,securely,legally,effectively,andefficiently.But,law-maker,court,andarbitratordecisionsrelatedtoappropriateuseoftechnologyandcontentimplicatingtheworkplaceandrelatedemployeractionsareinconsistentandhavenotkeptpacewithnewtechnology.Thissessionwillexaminetheevolvingtechnologyinthepublicworkplace,publicsectorconfinesinusingit,andappropriatelyhandlingemployeeswhomisuseit.

3:05 pm - 4:20 pm Plenary Session

P2 R Collective Bargaining and Interest Arbitration Trends and Developments

Robert J. Smith, Partner | Clark Baird Smith, Rosemont, IL (Diamond Sponsor)Bobwilldiscussnation-widepublicsectorbargainingtrendsandinterestarbitrationdevelopments,includingtheresultsofthelatestNPELRAAnnualCollectiveBargainingSurvey.Bobwillalsoaddresstheimpactofthe2016nationalelections,andidentifykeyprioritiesforyoutoconsiderinyourupcominglabornegotiations.

4:30 pm - 5:30 pm R Reception for Sponsors (SpEcIAl INvITATION)

5:30 pm - 7:30 pm R NPELRA Networking Reception

MondayeveningoffersallconferenceattendeesthechancetoreallyconnectwiththediversepoolofprofessionalsthatmaketheNPELRAATCapremiereeventforthepublicsectorlaborrelationsindustry.AtourNetworkingReception,taketheopportunitytomeetcolleaguesandsponsorsfromacrossthenation.Allregisteredattendees,includingspeakersandsponsors,arewelcome.

TUESDAY UUUUUUUUU6:45 am - 7:30 am R YOGA

Laurie Gronlund, HR Director | City of Pierre, Pierre, SD Startyourconferencedaywithaninvigoratingyogasession.Plantoattendandlearnhowyogacombinespostures(asanas),breathing(pranayama),meditationandafinalrelaxation(savasana)tobringyouasenseofwell-beingthatlastslongafterclass.Youwillbeenergizedandreadyfortherestofthedayafterattendingthissession!

7:00 am - 8:00 am R Networking Continental Breakfast

(BADGE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY)

7:00 am - 3:30 pm R Conference Check-in

EaRN 10 cREdits towaRd youR cLRP® REcERtificatioN by attENdiNg thE fuLL 3 days of NPELRa’s atc!

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7:00 am - 4:00 pm R Exhibit Area

8:00 am - 9:15 am R Plenary Session

P3 R Managing Through A Crisis: The Fox Lake Incident

Anne Marrin, Village Administrator | Village of Fox Lake, ILYvette Heintzelman, Attorney | Clark Baird Smith, Rosemont, IL (Diamond Sponsor)Asmallresortcommunityreceivednationalattentionwhenapolicelieutenantwaskilled.Policepersonnelcamefromacrossthecountrytoparticipateinthemanhunt.Later,itwasdiscoveredthathestagedthehomicideafterembezzlingmoneyfromtheExplorerPost.Now,hiswifehasbeenchargedwithconspiracytodefraudacharitableorganization.Howdidthishappentoacommunityof10,000residents?

9:35 am - 11:50 am R Workshops

W1 R What’s Next After the ACA? What Every Public Agency Should Know for 2017

Ron Kramer, Attorney | Seyfarth Shaw, Chicago, IL (Bronze Sponsor) Daniel Kopti, National Practice Employee Benefits Compliance Advisor | Wells Fargo Insurance Services USA, Inc., Torrance, CA (Silver Sponsor)WhilemostoftheACAisineffect,manyACArelatedissuesarestillopenorinflux.Severalofthoseimpactemployeerelationsandbargaining.Moreover,thenewPresidentwillhavehisorherownideasabouthowto“fix”or“replace”or“improve”theACA.InthissessionwewilldoaquickoverviewoftheACAanditsinsurancecostimpact,addresssomeofthepercolatingACA-relatedissuesthatmightariseinbargaining(contingentworkers,CadillacTax,wellness,opt-outs,etc.),anddiscusspossiblenewlegislation.

W2 R Hot Topics in Employment Law and the EEOC – What Every Public Employer Needs To Know

Leigh Jeter, Partner | Clark Baird Smith, Rosemont, IL (Diamond Sponsor)Inthisworkshop,participantswilltakepartinaninteractiveandinformativesessionthathighlightsthelatestemploymentlawtrends,aswellastheEEOC’spositionregardingthosetrends.Topicswillincludethefollowing:RecentEEOCactivityandcourtfilings;howtoidentifyandpreventretaliationclaims;howtorespondtorequestsforaccommodationduetoanemployee’sdisability,pregnancy,orreligiousbeliefs;howtodeterminewhetheryouremployerwellnessprogramiscompliantwiththeADAandGINA;andhowtorespondtoLGBTissuesintheworkplace.

W3 R Labor Relations Boot Camp

Michael Bates, Labor Relations Consultant | Tulsa, OKJoe Carrillo, Deputy Director of HR | Pierce County, Tacoma, WAInthissession,newerpractitionerswillbeexposedtothefundamentalsoflaborlaw,includingunionrepresentationissues,unfair/improperpracticecases,collectivebargaining,disputeresolutionandcontractadministration.Thepresenterswillalsoreviewideasfordevelopinganeffectivemanagementnegotiatingteamasyouapproachyourfirstorsuccessorcontractnegotiations.Amongothertopicsdiscussedwillbe:abargainingteam’scomposition,rolesplayedbycertainteammembersduringnegotiations,“whatif”proposals,employeerightsandprotections(Garrity,Weingarten,Loudermill,Skelly),andpreparationsthatshouldbetakenpriortothestartofnegotiations.

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W4 R Observing Due Process: In Hell There Will be Nothing but Law, and Due Process Will be Meticulously Observed

Todd Lyon, Attorney | Fisher & Phillips, Portland, OR (Silver Sponsor)Kyle Gulya, Attorney | von Briesen & Roper, Madison, WIUnderstandingdueprocessiscriticaltoanemployer’sbestpractices.Attendeeswillexaminethedueprocessobligationfromtheinvestigativeprocessthroughthehearingprocess.Theanalysisbeginswithareviewofthebasicsofdueprocess,includingkeydefinitions,eligibility,andthescopeofdueprocessduringinvestigationsandhearings.Thereafter,thesessionadvancesintothenuancesofdueprocessandthemanyunforeseencircumstanceswhichmayarise.ToddandKylewillengageinhands-onactivitiestohelptheattendeeapplyknowledgeandtechniquesineverydayapplication,includingdraftingdueprocesslettersandconductingadueprocesshearing.

W5 R Bargaining Perspectives from A Union and A Management Expert: What You Need to Know

Eddie Kreisberg, Principal | Meyers Nave, Oakland, CA (Silver Sponsor)Jason Jasmine, Partner | Messing, Adam & Jasmine, Sacramento, CAThissessionwillfeaturesought-afteragencynegotiatorEddieKreisberg,andaleadingunion-sideattorneyandnegotiatorJasonJasmine.Theywillsharetheiruniqueperspectivesonnegotiatingduringthesechallengingfinancialtimes.Bothhavenegotiated,advised,arbitratedand/orlitigatedpensionandretireehealthbenefitissues,healthchanges,andimplementationoflayoffsandfurloughs,andwilldiscusstherealitiesinworkingoutdealsontheseandotherhotlaborissueswhenmoneyistight.Theyalsowilldiscussnegotiationimpasse,andhelpattendeescomeawaywithamoresophisticatedunderstandingofhowtobalancetheparties’legalrights,theoftendifferingperspectivesoflaborandmanagement,andhowtogetto“yes”(oratleastmaintaingoodlaborrelations)whenmoneyisscarce.

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm R Lunch on Your Own

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm R State Presidents’ Lunch Meeting (SpEcIAl INvITATION)

1:15 pm - 2:30 pm R Concurrent Sessions

C11 R Labor & Employment Law Jeopardy!

Karen Morinelli, Shareholder | Ogletree Deakins, Tampa, FL (Emerald Sponsor)Ahoy!SailawaywiththeseafaringcrowdonavoyageforsailorswhowanttoimprovetheirskillsnavigatingthemurkywatersofLaborandEmployment.We’llbesailingfamiliarseasandvisitingnewhorizonsonourvoyage.Designedfortheintermediatesailor,we’lldiscussandupdatecurrentlaborandemploymenttopics,andpayhomagetoournauticalroots,allcombinedinalivelyteam-approachofthepopulargameshow“Jeopardy”.Don’tforget,matey,youranswermustbeintheformofaquestion.Allaboard!

C12 R Transgender Employees and the Workplace: Laws, Policies, and Best Practices

Sarah Warbelow, Legal Director | Human Rights Campaign, Washington, DCLearnaboutthechallengestransgenderpeoplefaceintheworkplacefromequitablebenefits,todresscodes,toidentification.Receiveanup-to-the-minuteupdateonemployers’obligationstotransgenderemployeesunderbothstateandfederallawaswellascourttrendsandpendinglegislation.Explorehowcorporationsacrossthecountryhaveadoptedbestpracticesthatcanbeimportedtoawiderangeofworkplaces.Challengingquestionsarewelcomeandencouraged!

C13 R ADA Compliance: Managing the Psychological Disability in the Workplace

Rachel Shaw, President | Shaw HR Consulting, Newbury Park, CA (Emerald Sponsor)Thisfast-paced,solutions-orientedpresentationwillprovideyouwiththeknowledgethatyouneedtoconfidentlytackleoneofthemostdifficultworkplaceaccommodationmatters–thepsychologicaldisability.Thissessionwillfocusonpsychologicaldisabilityissuesintheworkplaceandprovideyouwithtoolsthatyoucanimmediatelyusetountanglewhichaccommodationsarereasonabletoimplement,andwhicharenot.Rachelisknownnationallyasaspeakernottomiss.Hersessionwillflybyassheexpertlytakesyouthroughtriedandtrueexamplesofhowtoefficientlyandeffectivelymanagethesedifficultmedicalaccommodationmatters.

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C14 R Setting the Table for Success at Interest ArbitrationJosé Klein, Attorney | Fisher & Phillips, Portland, OR (Silver Sponsor)Interestarbitrationcreatesauniqueend-gamefortheresolutionofanegotiationimpasseinstrike-prohibitedunits.Viewedmoreasanextensionofbargainingthanasanevidentiaryhearing,towinatinterestarbitrationapartymustconvincethearbitratorthatitsproposalalignswiththepublicgood.Suchabroad(andvague)frameworkprovidesampleroomforadvocacy.Inthissession,laborrelationsprofessionalswith1-3yearsofexperiencenegotiatingwilllearnthenutsandboltsofinterestarbitrationaswellasstrategiesformaximizingchancesofsuccess.

C15 R The Bermuda Triangle: Where FMLA, ADA, and Workers’ Compensation Collide

Jennifer E. Edwards, Partner | Baker Hostetler, Columbus, OH (Bronze Sponsor)TheDepartmentofLaborandfederalcourtsareexpandingemployees’rightsonadailybasis,includingintheareasofFMLAandADA.Giventhesimilaritybetweenthesetwolawsandtheirrelationshiptostateworkers’compensationlaws,it’seasytogetlostwhentryingtofigureouthowtohandleanemployee’sneedforleave.Thissessionwillprovideyouwithacompass,givingyoudirectionthroughfact-basedscenariosandacomparisonofthethreetypesofleaveemployeesmayrequestwhentheyorafamilymemberaresickorinjured.

2:30 pm - 2:50 pm R Sponsors’ Drawing (MUST BE pRESENT TO wIN)

2:50 pm - 4:05 pm R Plenary Session

P4 R The FLSA – Recent Changes You Need to Know About

Peter Brown, Partner | Liebert Cassidy Whitmore, Los Angeles, CA (Silver Sponsor)PeterBrownisbackagaintopresentontheFLSA.HewilldiscussFLSAcasesthatareontheriseandyouragency’scontinuedcompliancewiththeFLSA,whichisessentialtoavoidcostlywageclaims.AttendeeswilllearnrecentFLSAdecisionsandchangesinthelaw,identifyupdatesthatmayhaveaneffectontheiragencies,includingoff-the-clockwork,traveltime,andworkschedules,andheartipstoavoidliabilityandproblems.

6:30 pm - 10:00 pm R Tuesday Night Celebration: Dinner and Tour Aboard the Queen MARY

JoinNPELRAaswetakeatripbackintimetoaclassicaleraofeleganceandstyleonafloatingmonumentinhistory.ThosewithafullconferenceregistrationhavetheopportunitytoattendadinnerreceptionandlearnthestorybehindthisiconicpieceoftheLongBeachwaterfront.Donotmissout! Dressing in the style of the period (1930s - 1940s)is highly recommended! (Reservation Registration required to receive a ticket.)

WEDNESDAY UUUUUUUUUUUUUU7:00 am - 8:00 am R Walk & Run

Laurie Gronlund, HR Director | City of Pierre, Pierre, SDNomatterwhatyourspeedis,wewelcomeyoutowakeupearlyandstartthedaywithashortexplorationofLongBeachwithyourcolleagues.Breatheinthemorningairandreturntotheconferencewitharefreshedspiritandclearmind.

7:30 am - 8:30 am R Networking Continental Breakfast (BADGE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY)

7:30 am - 10:30 am R Conference Check-in

8:30 am - 8:55 am R NPELRA Annual Business Meeting

Michele Green, NPELRA President and Employee/Labor Relations Manager | Sarasota County Government, Sarasota, FL

Seewhatothersaresayingabouttheconference.VisitTwitterandsearchthe

hashtag#NPELRAATC.TagusinyourFacebookandInstagram

poststoo!

#NPELRAatc

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9:00 am - 10:15 am R Plenary Session

P5 R Management Development for the 21st Century: The People Paradox and Getting Top Performers to Manage Successfully

Keith Friede, Area Vice President | Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., Bloomington, MN (Emerald Sponsor)Developingeffectivemanagementskills(i.e.,excellentpeopleskills)iscriticallyimportanttoeverypublicsectororganizationinrealizingemployeeengagementandorganizationalsuccess,especiallywithanewgenerationofemployeessteppingintomanagementrolesforthefirsttime.Inthissession,we’lladdressissueslikemanagerialflexibility,alignmentofworkstyles,buildinginternalcommitment,managementvs.leadership,usingstyleassessmentsproperly,skillpractice,actionlearning,andthe20-20-60factor(andmuchmore!)tohelpyoutakeyourmanagementdevelopmentinitiativestoamuchhigherlevelasakeydriveroforganizationaleffectiveness...byimprovingthecontentofthoseinitiativesandtheprocessusedtodeliverthem.

10:30 am - 11:45 am R Concurrent Sessions

C17 R Past Practice and The Administration of Collective Bargaining Agreements

John Dickinson, Partner | Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete,Jacksonville, FLNocollectivebargainingagreementeverwrittenspellsouteveryrightthateitherpartyhasordoesnothave.Sometimeswhenallelsefails(suchastheagreementbeingsilentonasubjectmatter),apartywillwanttorelyontheexistenceofa“pastpractice”tosupportanargumentthattheactiontakenwasorwasnotappropriate.Whiletheterm“pastpractice”getsusedalot,itisimportanttounderstandwhatitisandhowfaritgoes.Thissessionwillgiveyouthetoolssothatyoucaneffectivelyevaluatethepastpracticedoctrine.

C18 R The Opioid Epidemic: Human REsources’ Challenges and Solutions

Dr. Robert Mines, PhD, Chairman & Psychologist and Daniél Kimlinger, CEO - HR and Organization Psychology Leader | MINES and Associates, Littleton, COTheopioidepidemichasspreadthroughoutthecountry.Thishasledtoasignificantriseinheroinaddictiononthestreetsasprescriptiondrugsarehardertoget.WiththeACAallowingchildrenuptotheageof26tostillbeontheirparents’insurance,arevolvingdoorindrugtreatmentandrelapseisoccurringwithnopatientconsequences.Predatoryfacilitiesindrug/alcoholtreatmentarechargingupto$4,000.00perUAwhentheyshouldcostlessthan$40.00.HRchallengesinthisarena:egregiouscosts,ADAandFMLAconsiderations,personnelmanagementissues,andbenefitdesignflawsthatarebeingexploited.

C19 R Practical Advice for Maintaining a Harassment- Free Workplace

Susan Glover, Attorney | Robbins Schwartz, Bolingbrook, IL (Bronze Sponsor)Thispresentationwillprovideguidanceonidentifyingworkplaceharassment,investigatingcomplaintsofharassment,andinstitutingeffectiveresponsestoharassingconduct.Attendeeswillgainknowledgeoftheapplicablelawsgoverningworkplaceharassment,learnhowtoinvestigateifaworkplacehasbecomehostileandhowtorespondifitdoes,andlearntipsfordraftingandenforcingaworkplaceanti-harassmentpolicy.

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C20 R Managing the Generations

Ron Holifield, CEO | Strategic Government Resources, Keller, TX (Silver Sponsor)Forthefirsttimeinhistory,therearefourdifferentgenerationsworkingtogetherintheworkplace.Thishascreatedsubstantialstressandtensionasorganizationswrestlewithhowtobuildcohesiveteams.Thissessionwillprovidepracticalstrategiesforbuildingcohesiveteamsacrossgenerationallines.

11:45 Am - 1:00 pm R NPELRA Foundation Luncheon and Raffle

2016hasbeenagreatyearfortheNPELRAFoundationandtheywanttoshareallthey’veaccomplishedwithyou!Enjoyaheartymealandlearnwhowillbetherecipientsofthisyear’sscholarshipawards.TherewillalsobearaffleforFoundationcontributors,withsomeamazingprizesdonatedbytheStatePELRAs.LunchisopentoallNPELRAregisteredattendees,speakers,andsponsors.(BADGE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY)

1:15 pm - 2:30 pm R Concurrent Sessions

C21 R The Things That Keep You Up at Night

Douglas Duckett, Owner/Principal | Duckett Law Firm, Cincinnati, OH (Bronze Sponsor)Humanresourcesandlaborrelationsadministrationinthepublicsectorpresentsawidearrayofissues,withnewproblemsandchallengessurfacingallthetime.Thisinteractivepresentationwilllookatproblemsandissuesthatposerealthreatsandheadaches-whichcanliterallykeepusupatnight.Douglaswillofferideasandaskparticipantsfortheirownaswell.

C22 R Even Smarter Bargaining

Ben Gehrt, Partner | Clark Baird Smith, Rosemont, IL (Diamond Sponsor)ThissessionwilldiscussbargainingtipsandstrategiesthatcanbelearnedfromNPELRA’sforthcomingpublicationofEvenSmarterBargaining.Inchallengingeconomictimes,itisnowmoreimportantthanevertohaveafirmgrasponthehiddentrapsandcostsburiedwithinacollectivebargainingagreement,whilealsoknowingwhattypesoflanguagetostrivefortomaximizemanagement’sflexibility.

C23 R Your Ace in the Hole: New Guidance on FMLA and ADA Leave Issues

LaToya Merritt, Partner | Phelps Dunbar, Jackson, MSWhenmanaginganemployeewithamedicalcondition,theissuesinvolvedregularlyimplicatetheFMLA,theADA-orboth.WewilladdresscriticalFMLAandADAcomplianceconsiderationswhendealingwiththemostdifficultemployeeleaveandaccommodationscenarios.ThissessionwillhighlightthemostdifficultFMLA/ADAoverlapissuesemployersfaceandidentifypracticalsolutionstohelpemployersstaycompliantwiththeever-changinglandscapeofbothacts.

C24 R Employee Screening

Julia Gannaway, Attorney | Lynn Ross Gannaway & Cranford, Fort Worth, TXSusan Gard, Chief of Policy | City & County of San Francisco Department of HR, San Francisco, CAThissessionwillexaminestrategiesforpublicemployerstolawfullyaddresstherestrictionsrelatingtoconsideringandexcludingapplicantswhohavecriminalbackgrounds.

C25 R Dazed and Confused: How Legalized Marijuana is Complicating the Workplace

Rod Younker, Partner | Summit Law Group, Seattle, WAAsmorestateslightenrestrictionsonmarijuanause,isyourworkplacereadytodealwiththeimpacts?Don’tbecaughtlayingintheweedsonthisone.Thetrendtowardlegalizingmedicalandrecreationaluseofmarijuanacontinuestogainmomentuminthestates,creatingevermoreplaceswhereworkplacerules,statelawandfederallawconflict.Findoutwhatyouneedtoknow,doandnotdo.Can/shouldyoubanmarijuanauseinyourworkplaceifmedicalorrecreationaluseislegalinyourstate?Howdoestheconflictbetweenstateandfederallawplayoutinapublicsectorworkplace?Wewilldiscussthemanyissuesfromalegal,andperhapsmoreimportantly,fromapracticalperspective.

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2:45 PM - 4:00 Pm R Plenary Session

P6 R Legal Update

Kenneth Weinstock, Attorney | Kainen Escalera & McHale, Hartford, CTLearnabouttheimportantcourtandadministrativeagencydecisionsfromthepastyearinaninteractive,funandinformativesession.JoinAttorneyKennethWeinstock,whoformanyyearshasbeenourclosingplenaryspeaker,whowillpresentsignificantandsometimesunusualdecisionsinauniqueinformativesession.Learnhowyouandotherpublicemployershavebeenaffectedbythesedecisionsandhearsomepracticalguidancethatyoucantakebacktoyouragency.Reviewshaveconsistentlyratedthisa“mustattend”sessionsoplanyourtravelsoyoucanattendthisclosingsession.

THURSDAY UUUUUUUUUUUUUUU7:30 am - 4:00 pm R NPELRA Elective Academy: The Investigations Process

Humanresourcesandlaborrelationsprofessionalsareoftencalledupontoconductworkplaceinvestigationsinthefaceofseriousandsensitiveallegations,fromclaimsofsexualharassment/otherdiscriminationtoallegationsofworkplacemisconducttomajorethicalquestions.Yetfewofushavehadrealtrainingonhowtoconductaninvestigation.Thisprogramwillexploretheinvestigatoryprocess-fromwhoshouldconducttheinvestigation,legalissuestobewareof,howtoorderandstructureinvestigatoryinterviews,dealingwithGarrityissues,andhowtogenerateanend-productthatwillhelpyouremployerresolvewhathappenedandwhatneedstobedone.(Separate registration is required. $299 Members / $399 Non-Members)

8:45 am - 11:00 am R NPELRA CLRP® Exam

NPELRAhasdevelopedanalternativeforthoseworkingtowardsearningtheirCLRP®status!ThefinalsteptotheCLRP®processnowincludestheoptionoftakingamultiplechoiceexam.TheCLRP®ExamisavailabletoapplicantsthathavecompletedAcademyI,II,andIII.(Separate registration is required. $100 Members / $250 Non-Members)

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Food, music, museums and more, long Beach, california has it all. whether you are looking to make the drive to any of the nation’s premiere theme parks or looking to relax, at any of a dozen world class restaurants and bars, long Beach has it all - plus amazing Southern california weather.

staying close:Aquarium of the Pacific: Located right in Long beach, this 5-acre facility boasts over 11,000 animals representing over 500 different species. come for the shark Lagoon, an exhibit showcasing the ocean’s top predators, stay for the spectacle of the blue cavern, a three story tank showcasing the local sea life living in the waters around catalina island. with eight other exhibiting areas, there is something for everyone at the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Long Beach Museum of Art: founded in 1950 as a municipal art center, the Long beach museum of Art offers an extensive collection highlighting both individual artists and aesthetic movements pulled from over 300 years of human expression. Not limited to only paintings, visitors will see ceramics, sculptures, and even furniture designed by master artisans.

Belmont Shore: for those looking for one area that encapsulates the Long beach experience, head southeast from the center of town and visit the belmont shore business district. over 60 retail stores and even more eateries and restaurants, you can find everything from premium outlets to one of a kind enterprises offering handmade jewelry, home décor and more!

dining:you can’t go very far in Longbeach without running into amazing restaurants. some highlights: 555 East steakhouse, berlin bistro, boathouse on the bay, bubba gump shrimp co. and crème de la crepe café.

Nightlife:Long beach is home to a thriving bar scene. No matter your tastes, Long beach is bound to have something that appeals. from alex’s bar, featuring live music and excellent cocktails to the elegance of the 4th street vine wine bar and still onward to the refined craft beers of the belmont brewing company, selection is the order of the day.

a short trip away:Disneyland: if you’re looking to make a mini-vacation out of your trip, look no further than the disneyland Resort, located nearby in Anaheim, California. Offering numerous rides and attractions plus excellent restaurants and open air performances, this is well worth a visit.

Universal Studios Hollywood: boasting numerous movie themed rides and exhibits combined with the chance to tour a working movie studio, universal is the closest you can get to being on the silver screen. Living up to its title of The Entertainment Capital of L.A., universal studios is packed with one-of-a-kind attractions, including the largest 3-d ride in the form of Peter Jackson’s king kong 360.

Catalina Island: Looking to just appreciate the beauty of the california seaside? take the ferry to catalina island. although the beaches can get crowded on the weekend, you can take a ride in a glass-bottom boat or experience the thrill of hiking the islands’ still undeveloped interior. afterwards, oceanfront shops and eateries provide an island experience you’ll never forget!

Things to do in Long Beach!

Schedule Overview

conference schedule is subject to change without notice. Please visit www.npelra.org/atc for the most up-to-date information.

Sunday - April 23, 2017

7:00am-3:00pm NPELRA’sAnnualGolfTournament7:30am-4:00pm NPELRAAcademyIII:TheNegotiationProcess

12:00pm-3:30pm ConferenceCheck-in1:00pm-4:00pm Pre-ConferenceWorkshop4:30pm-5:30pm FirstTimers’Reception5:30pm-7:00pm WelcomeReception

Monday - April 24, 20177:30am-8:30am NetworkingContinentalBreakfast7:30am-3:30pm ConferenceCheck-in7:30am-4:00pm ExhibitArea8:30am-9:00am President’sWelcome

9:00am-10:15am PlenarySession10:15am-10:35am Break10:35am-11:50am ConcurrentSessions12:00pm-1:15pm RobinHallMemorialAnnualAwardsLuncheon1:30pm-2:45pm ConcurrentSessions2:45pm-3:05pm Break3:05pm-4:20pm PlenarySession4:30pm-5:30pm ReceptionforSponsors5:30pm-7:30pm NPELRANetworkingReception

Tuesday - April 25, 20176:45am-7:30am Yoga7:00am-8:00am NetworkingContinentalBreakfast7:00am-3:30pm ConferenceCheck-in7:00am-4:00pm ExhibitArea8:00am-9:15am PlenarySession9:15am-9:35am Break

9:35am-11:50am Workshops12:00pm-1:00pm LunchonYourOwn12:00pm-1:00pm StatePresidents’LunchMeeting1:15pm-2:30pm ConcurrentSessions2:30pm-2:50pm Break-Sponsors’Drawing2:50pm-4:05pm ConcurrentSessions

6:30pm-10:00pm TuesdayNightCelebration:QueenMary

Wednesday - April 26, 2017

7:00am-8:00am Walk&Run7:30am-8:30am NetworkingContinentalBreakfast

7:30am-10:30am ConferenceCheck-in8:30am-8:55am NPELRAAnnualBusinessMeeting

9:00am-10:15am PlenarySession10:15am-10:30am Break10:30am-11:45am ConcurrentSessions11:45am-1:00pm NPELRAFoundationLuncheon&Raffle1:15pm-2:30pm ConcurrentSessions2:30pm-2:45pm Break2:45pm-4:00pm PlenarySession

Thursday - April 27, 20177:30am-4:00pm NPELRAAcademy:TheInvestigationsProcess

8:45am-11:00am NPELRACLRP®Exam

DON’T MISS OUT REGISTER TODAY

GO TO WWW.NPELRA.ORG/ATCREGISTRATION

Members can save up to $410 - sign up before January 13, 2017

CONFERENCE FEES:

Sunday (evening), April 23 - Wednesday, April 26 Member Rates:

$589.00: Early Bird rate (through 1-13-17)$659.00: Regular rate (1-14-17 through 3-24-17)$739.00: Late rate (on or after 3-25-17)

Non-Member Rate: $999.00

Single Day Registration: Member: $299.00 (each day)Non-Member: $469.00 (each day)

Labor Relations Academies (for each Academy):Member: $299Non-Member: $399

Pre-Conference Workshop:Member or Non-Member: $99

CLRP® Exam:Member: $100Non-Member: $250

Additional Guest Tickets - Social Events: Welcome Reception: $40 ($59 if purchased after 3-25)Queen Mary Event: $100 ($125 if purchased after 3-25)

Golf Tournament:Member or Non-Member: $90

hiLtoN LoNg bEach 701 west ocean blvd., Long beach, ca 90831

1-800-hiLtoNs

the hilton has set aside a limited block of rooms for NPELRa conference attendees at a special rate of

$179 (+ tax) per night (single/double).

The special rate is in effect until March 30, 2017 or until the room block has reached capacity. book early!

Visit www.npelra.org/ATC for complete details

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PaIdsan dIego, Ca

PermIt no. 2325

NationalPublicEmployerLaborRelationsAssociation1012SouthCoastHighway,SuiteMOceanside,CA92054

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Save The Date! 2018 Annual Training Conference Charleston, SC April 15 - 19

thanks to our sponsors!

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Increase your organization’s visibility in a cost-effective way by becoming a sponsor at a level that’s right for you. All

sponsorships support the conference and the work of the National Public Employer Labor Relations Association (NPELRA).

Sponsorships are still available and those received by February 1, 2017 will be acknowledged in the conference

attendee badge book and on site signage at the conference.

Contact Yvonne Gillengerten for more information at760.433.1686 or yvonne@npelra.org

LCW Liebert Cassidy Whitmore