The 35th annual National Federation of Paralegal Associations convention was held in Portland, Ore., Oct. 28-Nov 1. Out of 54 member associations, 48 had delegates at the convention. Jodie Zolnowski and I represented WNYPA.

At the Region V meeting Friday, we discussed the agenda topics, the candidates for board positions and certification of paralegals, and also shared ideas on fundraising and educational seminars.

The following are highlights of the agenda topics discussed and voted on by the delegates at policy meetings held Saturday and Sunday.

Among those resolutions that passed were:

• A change in NFPA bylaws to allow all members to attend NFPA board meetings

• Amendments to the NFPA Procedures Manual, Section 5.9, directing regional directors to provide for assistance to the Navy Legalmen Association

• A policy to authorize the Entry Level Competency Examination Committee to proceed with establishing, developing and implementing a plan for an entry-level/basic competency examination, to be called a Basic Proficiency Examination, to be developed with Professional Examination Service

• An amendment to clarify Bylaws Article III, section 3.3, covering classes of membership.

Three policy changes under discussion did not pass: A proposal to amend NFPA's policy to modify PACE eligibility requirements to modify the grandfathering provision; an administrative resolution to require the treasurer to submit the draft budget 60 days prior to the annual meeting; and an administrative resolution to require that all committee meetings be held through Skype, when possible.

The convention was a rewarding experience. I encourage all members of WNYPA to visit the NFPA Web site and discover all that NFPA has to offer, and I challenge WNYPA members to become actively involved in our association.

- By Beth Bialis of Hodgson Russ LLP, NFPA primary representative and director of public relations/marketing for WNYPA