News Briefs

THE DAILY FED

News Briefs

SECTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM:

OPM--Federal retirees who need to call the Office of Personnel Management can now dial the agency "toll free." The new number is 1-88 US OPM RET (1-888-767-6738). Beginning October 28, Open Season Express at 1-800-332-9798 will operate solely for the annual health benefits open season. Open season in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program permits current enrollees to change health plans or options. This year open season runs from November 10 through December 8. (Office of Personnel Management).

GOINGS--Air Force Lt. Gen. John C. Griffith will retire March 1, 1998. Griffith is currently serving as vice commander, Air Education and Training Command, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas. (DoD Announcement).

OPENING--Former President George Bush opened his presidential library Thursday in College Station, Texas (CNN).

CIVIL RIGHTS NOMINEE--The Clinton Administration is trying to bolster support for Bill Lann Lee's nomination as assistant attorney general for civil rights, but Republican opposition in the Senate is steadfast (Associated Press).

THE FEDERAL DIARY--Mike Causey writes of chances that a plan to allow CSRS employees to switch into FERS will be revived.

CONFERENCE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Government Technology Leadership Institute

Dec. 2-3. "Leading Change, Leveraging Technology." Marriott Metro Center, Washington, D.C. Through examination of case studies and practical theories, the institute will demonstrate the pontential and pitfalls of IT initiatives, explain key laws and regulations, and teach how best to evaluate the performance of ongoing technology programs. The 6th annaul Government Technology Leadership Awards will also be announced.

Managing the Federal Employee Discipline and Performance Process

Jan. 12-13, Feb. 25-26. A nuts-and-bolts course designed to enable managers to navigate through the shoals of employee conduct and performance problems without becoming the loser. Cost:$550. Conducted by William Rudman. Brookings Institution. Washington, D.C. Contact Lela Sallis (202)797-6299.