National Association of Letter Carriers Non-Profit Org. Joseph P. Considine Branch 34 NALC, AFL-CIO U.S. Postage 400 West Cummings Park, Suite 3950 PAID Woburn, MA 01801-6396 Boston, MA Address Service Requested Permit No. 54631
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BOSTON, MA NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LETTER CARRIERS The Award-Winning Newspaper of Joseph P. Considine Branch 34 NALC, AFL-CIO Volume XLIX, Number 5 November-December 2020
Please check out BRANCH 34’s CLAN the dates, times and locations for all CELEBRACELEBRATINGTING 130 YEARS OF UNION PPARTICIPATIONARTICIPATION AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS H 1890-2020 upcoming Membership Meetings on the President’s Report BRANCH 34 WEBSITE at Weathering the Storm! nalcbranch34.com know I’m tired of writing, speaking of and if the membership wishes it to be that way, test (Offices who Iaddressing the Coronavirus Pandemic. As let us know and I will sign us up for this. have not had a past I am writing this Article I have been notified My major concerns with this are: positive will have of over 325 positive cases in the expanded 1. Voting on issues first priority fol- Boston District since this hit Us in March. 2. Collection of monies for MDA and the lowed by anyone GERALD (Jerry) 30 days ago, we had 265 cases, that is up 50/50 for the scholarship fund. who needs a return McCARTHY President Upcoming Meetings Upcoming 60 cases in a month’s time. We have to 3. Attendance requirements for the State visit) to address all stay diligent on how we are to deal with and National Conventions questions and concerns of the employees Combined Federal COVID-19. The holidays are upon us and 4. Meetings are to be confidential and there. We can weather this storm if we stay Campaign: A Gift for all families have their gatherings during this members only may attend. Those are my diligent! Changing Lives time. If you are traveling to visit your loved major concerns but I will do as the member- In closing, I want to wish all Veteran’s Page 2 ones I suggest getting a COVID test before ship requests. a Happy Veterans Day, All the Marines out hitting the road. This may also be a good I will continue to keep you informed there a Happy Birthday! time to delay these gatherings until a later of any changes on the Branch website and I wish all to be safe and enjoy the holi- Injuries Don’t Take a date. Dialing 211 from your phone, googling through carrier flashes. I will also con- days of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Holiday COVID-19 testing from your smart phone tinue to visit every office that has a positive Years, until we meet again, hopefully soon. Page 2 and then put in your zip code will give you testing locations in your area. CVS has Q&A on Hold-Downs numerous test sites and you can access this Page 3 from their phone app, you have to answer a questionnaire prior to scheduling an ap- pointment and if you have no symptoms It’s That Time of Year (wink/wink) you will be told that you do Again – Christmas, COVID not require testing at this time. These tests and Cobra Kai!!! should be of no charge and you may be re- Page 4 quested to provide proof of health insurance. I have heard horror stories of charges in the COVID-19-related MOUs $140.00 range being paid, keep calling test sites if this happens to you. Continue to Provide The major issue concerning any station Protection to Carriers that has had a positive test result still is the Inside Branch 34’s CLAN 34’s Inside Branch Page 4 cleaning or a deep cleaning after this positive test. Some stations only have a part day cus- Waltham Letter Carrier Virginia Dalton receives her Million Miles Award with Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy and Branch 34 todian assigned there and some have none at Shop Steward Ed Walsh. Salutes Its Retirees all. This is unacceptable and we are address- Pages 7 - 9 ing this on a daily basis with management. Clerks and Carriers have been allowed to assist in this additional “Deep Cleaning” if Branch 34 2021 Calendar needed. Cleaning falls under APWU work, Page 12 but Local 100 President Scott Hoffman and I have an understanding that if APWU T/781-281-1133 personnel are not available, Carriers will be allowed to assist in this task during this pan- F/781-281-1127 demic. It is more important that this work nalcbranch34.com gets done at this critical time with positive cases on a major upswing than any disagree- ments on craft assignments. Vice President New 24/7 Branch 34 Bernadette Romans will continue to check Emergency Number all offices on a frequent basis, please pass on Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy presents IMC-E Boston Letter Carrier Steve Rossetti with his Gold Card. Joining them any concerns to her on this issue. are Shop Stewards John Fanning and Emilio Leone. 781-420-0950 We have had to cancel numerous events due to the Coronavirus and it looks like we will have to cancel our Holiday meeting/par- Link to Branch 34 Website ty scheduled for December 8th, 2020 if the current Governor Charlie Baker executive Have a Safe and orders are not amended or canceled. I will send out a carrier flash the week before this meeting. I also have had numerous requests Happy New Year to hold our meetings by Zoom or WebEx. This can be done but it has its limitations to from the Officers and Executive Board of the number of persons that can sign in (100) BRANCH 34 NALC BOSTON and the meeting has a 40 minute time limit. This can be done for the December meeting Combined Federal Campaign: A Gift for Changing Lives he Christmas Season is here, which Even the NALC’s flagship charity, The ing, seek out your Tmakes me believe in this wonderful Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), CFC office rep- season of giving. You can pick up a news- which we have been associated in fighting resentative, and paper, watch the news, or read online of neuromuscular diseases for 68 years, can make a difference BERNADETTE ROMANS bad times, and people struggling in there receive donations at the local, or national in the lives of Vice President BRANCH 34 day to day lives. It makes you realize how level through CFC. With a few strokes of those less fortu- fortunate we all are to be employees at your pen, your computer, or smart device, nate than ourselves, from now through STATION STEWARDS the Unites States Postal Service. And as you can make a donation over 26 pay January 15, 2021. Think of it as a gift Allston ...... Gerardo Rosario unionized, government employees, we periods, and it’s automatically deducted from your heart! Arlington ...... Anthony Falco have an easy way in which to make the from your pay without even noticing it. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Sean Mullett lives of others better by donating through Carriers can select which groups they Happy Kwanzaa and any other day you Auburndale ...... Thomas Keirstead the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). want to support from a list of more than may observe. Wishing a very Happy Back Bay ...... Lucy Warren There are thousands of agencies that 2,000 eligible charities. The pandemic and Holiday and a Healthy New Year to you John DiBlasi reach millions of people that are in need the economic crisis that came with it have and your family. May you and your fam- Belmont ...... Salvatore Celeste of essential services. From Brother and strained the resources of many charitable ily experience peace and joy during this David D’Agostino Sister Letter Carriers that were affected groups, making your support so much special time of the year and may the New Braintree DMU ...... Richard Fraser by Hurricanes and Wildfires, to others in more important. Even the most modest Year bring good health and prosperity Robert O’Donnell need of mental health services, to families of gifts, collectively, can change lives in throughout 2021. Brighton ...... Roshon Butts that struggle just to put food on the table. a very big way. So, in this season of giv- Be Safe Sisters and Brothers! Brookline ...... Joseph DeMambro Dean Gonatas Cambridge – Central Sq...... William Wilkins Injuries Don’t Take A Holiday Robert Liberatore hether it’s carpal tunnel syndrome and everything else in between. A lot of take of making it Cambridge – Win your digits, wrists or forearms, times were on auto-pilot, and we’re so worse. You need Porter Sq...... William Cresitelli a bulging disc in your back, or meniscus used to doing the job that we don’t think to make a con- John Dickenson damage to your knee, injuries are the about what we’re doing, and how we do scious effort to Cohasset ...... Judi Aronson true enemy of every Letter Carrier. Most it. It is in these times that we become com- protect yourself Chestnut Hill ...... Thomas Conville of these conditions are a by-product of placent, and open ourselves up to getting from injury, and Dorchester Center ...... Marc Babin what we do on a daily basis. Our older hurt. You might overload your bag, start receive the proper BOBBY DAMATIN East Weymouth ...... Artie Matthews work force is more susceptible to getting rushing to make up time, cut corners, or treatment. I know Financial Secretary Fenway ...... Tony Cinelli hurt, and that has a lot to do with the wear lift something and not bend your knees. this sounds like Fields Corner ...... James Hudson and tear that our bodies are subjected to Performing your duties safely on a regular common sense, but Letter Carriers Fort Point ...Christopher Thompson on a daily basis. But don’t be fooled, the basis is part of your job, and should be sometimes prioritize the money, or their Vacant same holds true for our less seasoned the most important rules to enforce on dedication to their customers over seeking Hingham/Hull ...... Michael Bertrand employees. You also can fall victim to yourself. You don’t have to run, or take out the help they need. Hyde Park ...... Joseph DeBerardinis these dreaded injuries by not taking care two stairs at a time. All that is required The best course of action is to see your IMC – Chelsea ...... William Lang of your body, or performing your duties in of you is that you maintain what is called primary care physician. Assessing the IMC – East Boston ...... Emilio Leone an unsafe manner. And just like Smokey a demonstrated ability. You need not problem, and establishing your options IMC – Winthrop ...... John Fanning the Bear told everybody for years in those compare yourself to anyone else, try to for treating your injury can never be over- IMC – Everett ...... Tom Ciulla government sponsored TV public service outperform any other employee, or race stated. If you believe your injury needs IMC – Charlestown ...... Vacant spots, “Only You Can Prevent Forest to a mail room, lock the the door, and to be seen by a Doctor, do not hesitate IMC – Somerville ...... John Fucile Fires!” The same can be said for your then moments later reappear as “SUPER- Jamaica Plain ...... Robert Damatin to do so. It can be a hassle to fill out the health and well-being as a Letter Carrier. MAILMAN”! Able to leap staircases in a paperwork, give management a statement, Charles Zimmerman In dribs and drabs, management will single bound, powerlift loaded FSS trays J.F.K. Station ...... Robert Amirault but getting compensation coverage for Alex Taylor remind us to work safely. Whether avoid- from the bottom shelf, or overload your your serious job related injury relies on Kenmore ...... Dan Abellard ing wet leaves, watching out for black vehicle with relays and parcels. For some, your actions. And these important steps Lexington ...... Tony Scrivano ice, hold the hand rails, prevent dog bites, these are the tell-tale signs of that dreaded that you take in establishing your claim John Lucey bee stings, and let’s not forget the annual postal disease, “HERO-MANIA”. You will help support you when going through Malden ...... Laura Fahey distribution of headlamps with batteries! don’t get a bonus, you don’t stand atop that process. Christine Thompson And I can go on and on in what they say the podium to receive your gold medal. Your career can span decades, so it is Mattapan ...... Vacant in service talks that you might or might All you’re doing is setting the table for important to keep your health and well- Medfield ...... Christopher Pacitti not get in the morning on the work room an injury. being at the forefront of our everyday lives. Medford ...... Jon Holmberg floor. But the minute that you are sidelined Being on your feet, and carrying the Because of the physical nature of our job, it Stephen White with a substantial injury, you are now in majority of your day can put reoccurring is not a mystery that we are more suscep- Milton ...... Robert Leighton for the fight of your life for the Postal amounts of stress and strain on your back, tible to getting hurt than any other employ- Needham ...... Diane Butera Service to take responsibility for your feet, knees, and hips. And a good way to ees in the Postal Service. So it comes with Brian Senior work related injury. combat that damage is to have proper the territory that we must not ignore the Newton Centre ...... David Ward When you’re able to do your job footwear on your feet. Your footwear aches and pains that come along with this Newton Highlands ... Shawn Tierney efficiently and effectively and more im- needs to be comfortable, durable, and position. If you have to follow through with Newtonville ...... Thomas Duff portantly make mail, flats, circular, and in good condition at all times. And you physical therapy, acupuncture, medication, (A) Heidi White packages disappear from their sight, you can’t just keep wearing them when they or whatever treatment is recommended by North Quincy ...... Cathy Cooper are an important part of the workforce start to fray around the edges, split on the your Doctor, your response can make or North Weymouth ...... Mike Davis in your office. Yes, management cares sole, or you feel that burning sensation on break your recovery time, and your health Quincy ...... Amy Baker about your safety, but it’s not because they the bottom of your feet when they pass moving forward. Brendan Finn want to send you flowers when you get their work life. You must change out your Brothers and Sisters, please be vigilant Revere DMU ...... David O’Connor hurt. The minute you can’t perform those footwear on a regular basis to help protect in protecting yourself, and your career by Melrose ...... Paul Fusco duties, you are now considered a “postal your whole body. As one carrier reminded performing your duties in a safe manner Roslindale...... Adam Difazio pariah” who is killing productivity and is me, “They are the tires for your feet!” every day. Roxbury ...... John Galvin also a blemish on the office safety record, There are a host of preventative steps I would like to wish you and your fam- Keith Meredith and the district-wide numbers. in our everyday work life that can help ily a Happy & Healthy Christmas Season, Grove Hall...... Samie Smith Because of this, management has been in avoiding injury. Working smarter not and a Sooner Than Later COVID-Free Scituate ...... Justin Vo known to try and talk people out of report- harder can include: using a cart, splitting New Year! South Boston ...... Michael O’Connor ing their injuries. Other times they will heavy relays, using a two-wheeler to So. Weymouth . . Angela Riva-Seelig approach your problem with skepticism, deliver large packages, or other modifica- Great Job by All! Stoneham ...... Joseph Mangano questioning the validity of your injury. tions that help with protecting your body Waban ...... Rich Farrell Or even worse, you can be met with the when doing your job. Ask yourself on a hat a great job we all Waltham ...... Edward Walsh attitude that it’s your fault, and that it daily basis, “Are there actions that I can W did during this Rick Nourse could have been avoided. But before any initiate to make what I do as safe as pos- Watertown ...... William Huber tough time in of that can come to pass, let’s do some sible”? The answer to that question must 2020. Hopefully, Wellesley Square . . Charles Iantosca soul-searching in the performance of your always be “Yes”! Wellesley Hills ...... Kevin McMahon 2021 will bring duties. If we are doing everything we can When you’re young, you feel invin- Weston ...... David Demarco us back to a nor- to protect our bodies from harm, we have cible, and can get into the habit of ignoring West Newton ...... Vacant mal life so we can a better chance of avoiding these worst telltale signs when aches and pains need West Roxbury ...... Michael Walter go back to living case scenarios. to be addressed. But the most important without all of this Sandino Blaise DAN KELLEY Weymouth Landing ...Mario Venturelli Going to work every day as a Letter take away from this article is that you must stress from this Sergeant-at-Arms Woburn ...... Vigo Conte Carrier can become very monotonous, respond to an injury, and do what is neces- pandemic. Richard Bucci and we get into a routine from the way sary to help it heal. The longer you wait To all Branch 34 members, I’d like to say Wollaston ...... Thomas Rooney, Jr. we throw the mail, make our deliveries, to see your doctor, the more chances you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!! 2 BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020 BOSTON, MA Q & A on Hold-Downs NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LETTER CARRIERS ne of the most common grievances Of course, management may decide to Scheduled Days Ofiled by the Union concerns issues assign an employee to a residual vacancy and Opting. with hold-downs. There are a number pursuant to Article 41.1.A.7 at any time, The distinc- BRANCH 34’s CLAN misconceptions concerning hold-downs but the employee may not be required to tion between 400 WEST CUMMINGS PARK, SUITE 3950 but the most common seems to be that work the new assignment until the hold- the guarantee WOBURN, MA 01801-6396 there is a difference between the rights down ends. However, the employee may to work certain T/781-281-1133 F/ 781-281-1127 of PTF’s and CCAs as it relates to hold- voluntarily choose to end the hold- scheduled days Founded May 1971 MICHAEL MURRAY downs. There isn’t, and this question is down and assume the new assignment and the right to Secretary-Treasurer AWARDS addressed in the Q & A the parties agreed in this circumstance. specific days off International Labor to on CCAs in M-01870: is important. An employee who success- Communications Association So, it’s the employee’s choice on what fully opts for a hold-down assignment is 70. Is there a difference in the applica- GENERAL EXCELLENCE – they want to do. Either stay with the hold- said to be guaranteed the right to work LOCAL UNION PUBLICATIONS – tion of opting (hold-down) rules between down or go to the new assignment when the hours of duty and scheduled days CIRCULATIONS of 2,500 to 9,999 part-time flexible city carriers and CCAs? they’re converted. Prior to 2016 they had of the regular carrier. It must be noted, First Place, 2003 No. to stay on the hold-down. however, that days off are “assumed” only National Association of In the following article, I’ll explain What happens when a CCA goes on in the sense that a hold-down carrier will Letter Carriers some of the rules on hold-downs so we vacation or has their 5-day break. Does not work on those days unless otherwise BEST ORGANIZED – can protect our newest members from that break end the hold-down? No. scheduled. In other words, a hold-down LARGE BRANCH being exploited by management. One When either of those things happen and carrier is not guaranteed the right to not First Place, 2018 question I get asked a lot in Good Start the absence is expected to be 5 days or work on non-scheduled days. Of course, First Place (tie), 2014 is how are hold-downs publicized? In more then that’s what’s called a hold- this is the same rule that applies to the as- GENERAL EXCELLENCE – the Boston installation that can be found down within a hold-down. Which means signment’s regular carrier, who may, under LARGE BRANCH PUBLICATIONS – in Art 41 of our Local Memorandum of another carrier can have a hold-down certain conditions, be required to work on MORE THAN 1,500 MEMBERS Understanding (LMOU) which reads in on that route. This language can also be a non-scheduled day. (Emphasis added) First Place, 2018 found in Art 41: First Place, 2016 relevant part: First Place, 2014 Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for First Place, 2012 B. BIDDING PROCEDURES - Exceptions to the Duration Clause. management to require a CCA to work First Place, 2010 LONG TERM VACANCIES There are situations in which carriers tem- their N/S day on a hold-down and then First Place, 2008 1. At each work location (as specified porarily vacate hold-down positions for give them a day off later in the week. This First Place, 2002 in Article 12 of the Local Agreement), which they have opted — for example for is also a violation of our contract with the First Place, 1996 vacation. Such an employee may reclaim Postal Service. In this scenario, I would First Place, 1994 Management shall post all temporary Second Place, 2006 vacant full-time craft duty assignments and continue a hold-down upon returning enjoy the day off and file a grievance to Second Place, 1992 of five (5) days or more. to duty (Step 4, H4N-3U-C 26297, April 23, be paid for the day I had a contractual Third Place, 2004 2. Full-time reserve, unassigned regular, 1987, M-00748). If the opting employee’s right to work. This situation is addressed Honorable Mention, 1982 full-time flexible Letter Carriers and City absence is expected to include at least five below and can also be found in Art 41 of Judges’ Commendation, 1988 Carrier Assistant Letter Carriers of that days of work, then the vacancy qualifies as our contract. BEST EDITORIAL OR COLUMN work location may indicate their prefer- a new hold-down within the original Honorable Mention, 2016 ence for such assignments until twenty- hold-down. Such openings are filled as For example, suppose there is a vacant BEST STORY four (24) hours before the assignment regular hold-downs, such that the first opt- route with Thursday as the scheduled First Place, 1996 commences. ing carrier resumes his or her hold-down day off. The carrier who opts for such Third Place, 1990 upon returning to duty — until the regular a route is guaranteed the right to work 2 Honorable Mentions, 1992 3. Up to twelve hours before the as- Honorable Mention, 1990 signment commences, the senior carrier carrier returns. (Emphasis added) on the scheduled work days, but is not BEST CARTOON OR PHOTO having indicated his/her preference shall guaranteed work on Thursday. This does be notified that he/she is awarded the By far the most common hold-down not necessarily imply that Thursday is a First Place, 2006 assignment. violation is when management changes guaranteed day off; the carrier on a hold- PROMOTING UNIONISM 4. The above shall not apply where either the hours of the hold-down or the down may be scheduled to work that First Place, 2018 Third Place, 2018 assignments become available upon days off. If a CCA is “bumped” off of their day as well, either on or off the opted-for hold-down on a regularly scheduled day assignment. However, management Third Place, 1992 less than twenty-four (24) hours notice. Judges’ Commendation, 1988 In such circumstances management they still own the hours of the hold-down. may not swap scheduled work days So, as an example if the CCA has a hold- with days off in order to shift hours BEST WEBSITE shall post a notice on a designated bul- First Place, 2018 letin board for hold down assignments down on a route with a schedule of 7:30 into another service week to avoid a.m.-4:00 p.m. and is going to be bumped overtime or for any other reason. To BRANCH 34’s CLAN is the Official Publication of and award the assignment to the se- Branch 34 of the National Association of Letter Carriers, nior carrier who indicated a preference. the next day they still have a right to that do so would violate the guarantee to AFL-CIO. The Boston Branch was Chartered by the 5. All carriers wishing to bid for the schedule. Even if management is moving work all of the scheduled days of the NALC on June 18, 1890. them to a route with a 9:30 a.m. start or hold-down. (Emphasis added) BRANCH 34’s CLAN is published six times each year. assignment will notify management in It presents the various issues of the day that are of writing. having them come in later to deliver splits, concern to the membership. The views and opinions the CCA still has a right to the 7:30 a.m. Let’s make sure our newest members expressed in the articles and columns do not necessarily 6. All carriers who are on leave or are reflect the official position of the NALC Branch 34 or otherwise unavailable to bid on these as- BT. If management schedules them later are taken care of by helping to make sure its officers, but rather those of the author. signments and wish to be notified of these then they should enjoy the extra two hours they’re not being taken advantage of by Any articles submitted for publication in BRANCH of sleep and file a grievance to be paid the management. These hold-down rights 34’s CLAN must be typewritten, double-spaced and assignments should inform management received at the Branch office no later than the close in writing. (Emphasis added) two hours. The language below addresses were not “given” to us by management, of business on the first of the month of publication: this very important hold-down right: they don’t “give” us anything. As I tell the January, March, May, July, September, and November. The Editor reserves the right to amend articles and/or Another common question is how long new CCA’s in Good Start, as well as, the delay their publication due to the limited availability does a hold-down last? That answer can Schedule Status and Opting. newly converted career carriers, nothing of space. Employees on hold-downs are entitled in this job was given to us. Everything Permission is hereby granted for the REPRINTING of be found in Art 41.2.B.5 of our National any article that originates in this paper provided an Agreement. Which states in relevant part: to work the regularly scheduled days we have was fought for and won. And appropriate credit line also appears and a copy of the and the daily hours of duty of the as- we should make sure the PO lives by their reprint in its new publication is sent to: Editor, NALC Branch 34, 400 West Cummings Park, Suite 3950, Duration of Hold-Down. signment (H8N-1M-C 23521, June 2, 1982, agreement with us! Woburn, MA 01801-6396. Article 41.2.B.5 provides that once an M-00239). (Emphasis added) BRANCH 34’s CLAN enters the Postal Service as I’d like to wish everyone and their third-class, non-profit material. Any change of address available hold-down position is awarded, should be sent to: Editor, NALC Branch 34, 400 West the opting employee “shall work that families a Merry Christmas and a Happy Cummings Park, Suite 3950, Woburn, MA 01801-6396. New Year! duty assignment for its duration.” An opt Ross Murray, Editor is not necessarily ended by the end of a Jerry McCarthy, Associate Editor service week. Rather, it is ended when Bob Simpson, Associate Editor the incumbent carrier returns, even if 2019-2022 BRANCH 34 NALC only to perform part of the duties — for ATTENTION RETIRED BOARD OF OFFICERS example, to case but not carry mail. (Em- Jerry McCarthy President phasis added) Bob Simpson Executive Vice President LETTER CARRIERS: Bernadette Romans Vice President As the above states once you’re Michael Murray Secretary-Treasurer awarded a hold-down you’re to work When you meet your milestone year Bobby Damatin Financial Secretary Ross Murray Editor it for its duration. You can’t jump from (40, 45, 50, 55, 60, etc.) Laura Wood-Fahey Area Steward hold-down to hold-down. You have to John Fucile Area Steward wait until your hold-down is broken by John Lucey Area Steward please reach out to the Dave O’Connor Area Steward the regular coming back to work from Joseph DeMambro Health Benefit Officer vacation or an injury or the route’s been Union Hall @ 781-281-1133 Dan Kelley Sergeant-at-Arms bid by someone and they’re assuming Rich Galvin Clerk, MBA/NSBA and provide us with the information Paul Roche Chairman, Trustees the bid. In the 2016 National Agreement Vigo Conte Trustee the parties agreed to amend that slightly. so your achievement Dan O’Connor Trustee That change is reprinted below and the bolded language is what was added into can be recognized. 208 the contract in 2016: BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020 3 It’s That Time of Year Again, Christmas, COVID, and Cobra Kai!!! eird combination yes, but let’s face Also there have been warnings from The challenges this holiday season are sonally think that Wit 2020 has been absolutely insane business insiders that are warning con- more than likely going to involve CO- it should be ex- and a complete and utter S__t-show. At sumers if you don’t order it and have a VID-19 , it’s a part of life at this point. As tended and that this point basically anything goes. minimum delivery date of 12/18/2020, the upticks continue in the world outside if it isn’t we will And in the vein of anything goes, well you probably won’t get it on time, re- the PO, it will uptick here as well, (even have a lot more here it goes. gardless of who delivers it. We all know if Management doesn’t think so) and that issues relative to I understand that everyone has been someone’s Nana is going to order the could mean less people to do more work, COVID. on edge the past year, it hasn’t been easy. hat, glove and scarf set on 12/18, Mom is at our busiest time of year. I’ve been I’ve been told Many events and various gatherings have going to order that video game on 12/22 told that a few Managers and Supervi- by a few of you, been cancelled, delayed, started, stopped (and little Jimmy still believes), and then sors have begun telling employees that that you enjoyed LAURA WOOD FAHEY and started again. However, Christmas Dad is going to wait to the last minute COVID LEAVE and COVID FMLA, my TV TOP 10 Area Steward is coming and it will not be cancelled, as he always does and buy all of his gift expire at the end of November, THAT list, so here is a second installment, to tide delayed or stopped! I’m sure as with past cards at Walgreens (so we are good there). IS UNTRUE!!!!! COVID LEAVE AND you over this winter!!! holiday seasons we will pick up the slack So be prepared for the one customer who COVID FMLA, has been granted to Trials of Gabriel Fernandez –Netflix for Amazon, UPS, and FedEx when they stops you on the street and says “well I you by the CARES ACT, so unless your (tough to watch) get “overwhelmed” with packages. This ordered it and it said it would be here Manager or Supervisor is a Member of Sopranos – Hulu year is shaping up to be no different!!! on 12/22, and the scan says you have Congress than they cannot and should not Nurse Jackie – Netflix So let’s prepare to do what we do best it, so why don’t you have it?”, and you be unilaterally and arbitrarily changing the When They See US – Netflix during the holidays, and that is STRIKE kindly explain, while looking at the little rules of that leave. City on a Hill – Showtime FIRST, STRIKE HARD, NO MERCY! printed out scan report, that you don’t COVID LEAVE and COVID FMLA I’ll Be Gone in the Dark – HBO (I know you were wondering how I was have it, it’s sitting in the building at the expires on 12/31/2020. It has also been OZ – HBO/Hulu going to work Cobra Kai in). GMF with probably 500,000 other pack- asked of me if that leave will roll over to Atlanta Child Murders – HBO We also know that this holiday season ages and then the customer says “Well I next year, and again the only way it will Social Dilemma – Netflix will be a lot more challenging. COVID-19 know you guys are really busy this time be available to you in 2021 is if there is Cobra Kai – Netflix is still raging, despite the fact that the Post of year, so do you think I can go look for another stimulus bill or amendment to the Die Hard is a Christmas movie!!! Office has all but worked as if it was gone it myself?” Absolutely have at it, please, CARES ACT, at this point there has been I want to wish you all a Happy Thanks- forever, over the summer. As we all now please, please wander around the GMF no talk of extending it into 2021, that I giving, Merry Christmas, Happy New know they were mistaken. It never left and looking for your video game amongst have been able to find. Year and say thank you to all of our we have continually seen cases pop up all the 500k packages and Christmas chaos, Quite frankly and this is just my opin- Veterans!! Here’s hoping 2021 is not like over the Boston District. Again I hope you while playing frogger with the jitneys!!!!! ion so take it for what it’s worth, but I per- the last one!!!!! family is safe and well!!! I have been told that since the pandem- ic began most weekly averages had us de- COVID-19-related MOUs Continue to Provide livering 40- 70% more packages relative to the same previous Corona-free year. I want to let you know that means since Protection for Letter Carriers last February/March you have already ello my fellow brothers and sisters Doug Tulino to the management in the rier entering the been performing as if it were Christmas, Hhope all is going well during this field regarding agreements with NACL, facility, the mail as those are the numbers we normally see pandemic. This is just a fellow reminder leave policy and approval of requests for will be placed during the busy Holiday season. and updates on the current MOUs set in changes of schedule due to child care on the dock or place by National. needs related to COVID-19 pandemic. somewhere out- Don’t Be A SCAB! The NALC and the Postal Service The letter states that in addition to al- side where it can Urge them to pay their fair agreed to continue several pandemic- lowing Sick Leave for Dependent Care, be loaded with- share and join Branch 34! related memorandums of understand- managers and supervisors should allow out entering a ing (MOUs). These MOUs and currant liberal changes of schedule in recognition building; and 3) Back Bay awareness can be located in the NALC of the disruption caused by the COVID-19 If a loaned carrier DAVE O’CONNOR THOMAS N. CONCANNON Area Steward ROBERT A. ROMIKITIS website as well but here are a few that pandemic. To the extent operationally does not bring a got my eye, practicable, managers and supervisors vehicle from the losing office, the gaining Braintree M-01910 provides some relief for cer- should accommodate employees who office will have appropriate cleaning sup- MOLLY LONG tain letter carriers dealing with child care submit PS Form 3189, Request for plies for the carrier to sanitize the vehicle Brookline needs caused by large number of schools Temporary Schedule Change for Per- he/she will be using. CHRISTINE M. BAILEY that have closed since the onset of the sonal Convenience, as a result of child M-01916 allows the Postal Service LINDA M. HAZELL pandemic, this MOU allows career letter care issues caused by day care closures, to employ TCAs as operationally neces- carriers to use sick leave for dependent school (pre-kindergarten through Grade sary for the sole purpose of replacing city Cambridge – Porter Square BLANCA I. TEEBAGY care to care for a child or children as the 12) closures, or the unavailability of a letter carriers absent due to COVID-19. result of closed day care, schools or the child’s primary caregiver as a result of Throughout the pandemic, letter carri- Chelsea Carrier Annex (IMC) unavailability of the child or children’s the COVID-19 pandemic. Managers and ers have needed to use leave to care for SANDRA GIORDANO caregiver due to the COVID-19 pandemic supervisors also should allow liberal sick themselves and their families. To limit Fenway were incountering at this tough time. leave usage for employees, and liberal disruptions in mail service as a result of BEVERLY A. SCANLON M-01911 gives CCAs an additional 80 annual and leave without pay (LWOP) taking this necessary leave, not only to hours of paid leave to use for specific rea - usage to the extent operationally feasible, protect letter carriers and their families Fort Point sons in connection with the COVID-19 during this time period. If an employee but to protect the overall general public WAYNE J. CHIN pandemic, since CCAs do not earn sick requests leave for reasons related to CO- as well, the ability for the Postal Service Hingham-Hull leace. Reasons to use this additional paid VID-19, such leave should be treated as to employ TCA’s has been helpful. MARK J. DION leace for CCAs include: the employee scheduled (as opposed to unscheduled) NALC and the Postal Service also Malden has contracted COVID-19 or has been leave. Leave taken for COVID-19 related agreed to another temporary time-limit EILEEN M. FINN directly exposed to someone with CO- reasons may not be cited in discipline for extension on Step B and arbitration ap- VID-19; the employee is experiencing failing to maintain an assigned schedule peals (M-01931), also agreed to give local Medford symptoms generally associated with under ELM 511.43. parties the ability to develop a sign-up GERALD M. LYTES COVID-19; and for the employee to use M-01915 directs the local parties to process for full time employees who have Milton consistent with the MOU, Re; Temporary immediately discuss potential scheduling previously did not, or could not , place CHARLES S. ROSEN Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care and office setup changes such as staggered there names either the overtime desired During COVID-19 (M-01910). start time, scheduling letter carriers to list or work assignment list. Needham TAMI L. JOHNSON M-01913 institutes the use of Employ- begin tours in groups of 10 or fewer, the Lets also keep in mind that the CCAs ee and Labor Relations Manual (ELM), manner in which stand up talks are given, also do not need to be moved from station Newton Highlands Section 432.53, City Letter Carriers (7:01 locations and times, and other initiatives to station as well, especially when man- SIMON CHAN ...... CCA Rule). With this rule, a full-time city let- to maximize social distancing. The agement has done this on a regular basic’s. ROBIN I. DEVITTO ter carrier who actually works more than MOU also commits the parties to limit- CCAs if moved please bring it to your Scituate seven hours but fewer than eight hours ing individuals to working only in their steward’s attention so that a grievance KAREN M. LYNCH of a regular scheduled day will, upon his/ employing facilities to the extent possible. can be filed ASAP. Also with day light When not possible, the Postal Service saving taken place at the end of October Stoneham her request, be officially excused from the TINA M. DOHERTY completion of the eight-hour tour and still agreed to a few additional precautions in and its getting darker out earlier our safety be credited with eight hours of work time the limited circumstance when a carrier is the most important measure we should Waltham for pay purposes. Any hours not worked is sent to another office to work. In these take, if its not safe bring it back, don’t DAVID BAHM JOSEPH REGNA ...... CCA between the seventh and eighth hour of situations, the Postal Service agreed the take a chance. You come to work safe a regular scheduled day, pursuant to EM following should be done: 1) The supervi- you should go home safe to your families. We apologize in advance if your name appears on this scab list in error. This 432.53, are included in an employee’s sor and steward in the losing office will I would also like to say with the holiday information is forwarded to us from our regular rate of pay, pursuant to ELM jointly determine which carrier will go to season upon us have a happy and healthy National Headquarters and we do our best 443.212.g. holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving and to ensure its accuracy. If you are still not the gaining office; 2) If there is concern in the Union, it’s time to step up and pay M-01914 is a letter from Postal Ser- from either of the loaned carrier or those Merry Christmas my fellow brothers and your fair share. No excuses. Contact your vice Vice President, Labor Relations in the gaining office about the loaned car- sisters. Station Steward to join NOW! 4 BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020 Keeping Your Head Clear in Massachusetts These Trying Times Congressional ello Brothers and Sisters. I hope As if all this wasn’t challenging Center rep- Delegation Hyou are all doing well. I hope you enough, we are now left with little resentatives are all staying safe. I say this because to no options on how to enjoy what provide in- U.S. SENATE these are difficult times. little time we do have outside of work. formation, The Honorable Elizabeth Warren ROSS MURRAY Hart Senate Office Bldg., Rm. 317 As I am typing this, we’re com- With COVID cases rising, enjoying referral, “Branch 34’s CLAN” Editor ing off the end of an election that has bars, movie theaters, and gyms is or assign- Washington, D.C. 20510 202-224-4543 Fax: 202-224-2417 shown us just how divided our country nearly impossible to do safely. So it’s ments for all services. The phone www.warren.senate.gov has been, we’re ending a year of civil no doubt that this upcoming Holiday number is 800-EAP-4YOU (1- unrest, and COVID-19 cases are sky- season is going to take a toll on the 800-327-4968). TTY users should The Honorable Edward J. Markey Dirksen Senate Office Bldg., Rm. 218 rocketing. It’s safe to say that it’s been mental health of some people. call 877-482-7341. Washington, D.C. 20510 a tough year for all of us. Luckily, the USPS has a service The EAP Website, www.EAP- 202-224-2742 Fax: 202-224-8525 Now The Christmas season is upon for this. The Employee Assistance 4YOU.com is accessible to all USPS www.markey.senate.gov us, and it’s not going to be easy. The Program (EAP) is a resource for employees and their family members. holiday season is without a doubt one postal employees and their fam- In addition to information on issues U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of the most challenging times for letter ily members designed to help them that affect workplace and personal First Congressional District carriers, always has been, always will with on-the-job, personal, or family lives, it offers provider and benefit The Honorable Richard E. Neal be. However this year will bring its problems. EAP is counseling and information. Rayburn House Office Bldg., Rm. 341 Washington, D.C. 20515 own set of challenges. We can expect referral service staffed with mental I encourage anyone who is having 202-225-5601 Fax: 202-225-8112 record-breaking package volume as health professionals. It is a formal, an issue to please utilize this service. neal.house.gov more people than ever before shun non-disciplinary program that is free, There is no shame in taking care of Second Congressional District brick-and-mortar stores in favor of the confidential and voluntary. yourself. The Honorable James P. McGovern safety of e-commerce. Additionally The EAP toll-free hotline is avail- Lastly I would like to wish all my Cannon House Office Bldg., Rm. 408 people will be sending items to loved able 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Brothers and Sisters a safe and Happy Washington, D.C. 20515 ones who they would normally visit Counselors are available for emer- Holiday season. Be safe, WEAR A 202-225-6101 Fax: 202-225-5759 in years past. gency, urgent care intervention. Call MASK, and carry on. mcgovern.house.gov Third Congressional District The Honorable Lori Trahan Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1616 Washington, D.C. 20515 Credit Where Credit is Due 202-225-3411 Fax: 202-226-0771 or Letter Carriers, this time of the week following the week of count the regional trahan.house.gov Fyear is the most stressful and most and inspection; or instructions Fourth Congressional District demanding time of the year. Heavy b. The average street time used dur- for exten- The Honorable Jake Auchincloss volume, long hours and weather ing the week of count and inspection. sions of Cannon House Office Bldg., Rm. 304 compounded with the responsibility of rural deliv- Washington, D.C. 20515 making sure we deliver Christmas to 202-225-5931 Fax: 202-225-0182 Secondly, we need to address 697 ery. Keep in auchincloss.house.gov all of our customers all add to the bur- or Extension of deliveries. mind that RICH GALVIN Represented Communities: Brookline, Newton, Needham, Clerk, NBA/NSBA den, our World Series or Super Bowl extensions Wellesley, Dover, Medfield, Millis, Medway, Milford, if you will. Top that off with the crazi- 142 Extension of of rural service must be effective on Hopkinton, Hopedale, Bellingham, Franklin, Norfolk, ness of 2020 and we’re all just waiting City Delivery Service the first day of a pay period and that Wrentham, Plainville, Foxboro, Sharon, Attleboro, for this year to come to an end. Let 142.3 Action After Approval When approved Forms 4003, Official Rural North Attleborough, Mansfield, Norton, Easton, Seekonk, me start off by saying how impressed requests for extensions of city delivery Route Description, must be submitted Rehoboth, Taunton, Raynham, Dighton, Berkley, Lakeville, I am with all of our letter carriers, and are approved and with the return of to the respective postal data center 1 Freetown, Somerset, Swansea the other Postal crafts that continue to Form 697 from the designated author- week prior to the effective date. Fifth Congressional District service the people of this Nation. Not ity, the manager must: The Honorable Katherine Clark Rayburn House Office Bldg., Rm. 2448 only postal employees, but all essen- a. Determine which route will serve In many instances, when I look at Washington, D.C. 20515 tial workers have earned my respect the area. carrier cases is see cut up rack strips, 202-225-2836 Fax: 202-226-0092 throughout these challenging times. b. Determine if adjustment to the numbers added by hand in pen or katherineclark.house.gov Thank you to all that continue to give route is necessary. (Where the exten- marker and instantly I know two Represented Communities: Arlington, Belmont, so selflessly. sion provides delivery to only a few things. Framingham, Lexington, Lincoln, Malden, Medford, Natick, As most of you know all route new stops, the time involved can be • Your DPS and FSS won’t match Revere, Stoneham, Waltham, Watertown, Wayland, inspections have been cancelled for absorbed by the carrier without any the rack and Weston, Winchester, Winthrop, Woburn the duration of 2020 and there is much adjustments.) c. When adjustment is • You’re not getting credit for Sixth Congressional District uncertainty going into 2021. That be- necessary, make it promptly if it can deliveries that are on your route. The Honorable Seth Moulton ing said, carriers have been given an Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1127 be made without a special inspec- Not only that, but automation will Washington, D.C. 20515 opportunity to focus on and correct tion, using the formula shown in 141. not recognize those deliveries and will 202-225-8020 Fax: 202-225-5915 any 1840 B times. When adjustments are made without not be able to sort those addresses. moulton.house.gov inspection, the adjustments must be Most likely, that mail will be in a Seventh Congressional District 242.32 Street Time fully discussed with the carrier. separate sweep of residual mail. In The Honorable Ayanna Pressley 242.321 For evaluation and adjust- d. Make special route inspection a time where every piece and every Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1108 ment purposes, the base for determin- when adjustments cannot be made delivery counts and management is Washington, D.C. 20515 ing the street time shall be either: as suggested in 141. looking to cut at every corner, it is 202-225-5111 Fax: 202-225-9322 a. The average street time for the 7 e. When determined that rural de- imperative that we get credit for every pressley.house.gov weeks random timecard analysis and livery service will be provided, follow delivery we make. Represented Communities: Boston, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Milton, Randolph, Somerville Eighth Congressional District Holiday Greetings From the The Honorable Stephen F. Lynch Rayburn House Office Bldg., Rm. 2109 Washington, D.C. 20515 National Business Agent’s Office 202-225-8273 Fax: 202-225-3984 020 is soon to be in the rearview condolences to the family members and myself, I lynch.house.gov 2mirror. It has been a very difficult of those lost. want to wish Represented Communities: Abington, Avon, Boston, time for each one of us. From CO- On behalf of Regional Admin- you a Merry Braintree, Bridgewater, Brockton, Canton, Cohasset, Dedham, East Bridgewater, Hingham, Holbrook, Hull, Milton, VID-19 to the Presidential election istrative Assistants Jerry Ugone Christmas, Norwood, Quincy, Raynham, Scituate, Stoughton, Walpole, cycle. We have lost courageous Let- and Kenny Janulewicz, Regional Happy Holi- Weymouth, West Bridgewater, Westwood, Whitman ter Carriers as well as members from Grievance Assistant Kevin Flaherty, day Season RICHARD J. “Rick” DiCECCA Ninth Congressional District our postal family to this deadly virus. Region 14 Field Secretary Elaine and a much- National Business Agent The Honorable William Keating Letter carriers who have contracted the Keigher, Regional Workers Com- anticipated Rayburn House Office Bldg., Rm. 2351 virus along with others who have had pensation Specialist Doug Lawrence Happy New Year. Washington, D.C. 20515 to quarantine know the pain, and fear 202-225-3111 Fax: 202-225-5658 of not knowing how the virus would keating.house.gov affect them. But through it all we have H To Our Troops! H Represented Communities: Norwell, Rockland, Hanover, reported to work every day. We have Hanson, Pembroke, Duxbury, Halifax, Plympton, Kingston, Thank You For Your Service Middleborough, Carver, Plymouth, Fall River, Westport, served the American public without and Your Sacrifice! Dartmouth, New Bedford, Acushnet, Fairhaven, Rochester, delay. We can only pray science can Mattapoisett, Marion, Wareham, Bourne, Sandwich, develop a vaccine to help protect each Falmouth, Sandwich, Mashpee, Barnstable, Hyannis, and everyone of us. Until then we need NALC BRANCH 34 Yarmouth, Dennis, Brewster, Harwich, Orleans, Chatham, to stay strong and stay safe. Never Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, Provincetown, Aquinnah, letting our guard down to this virus. I Goswold, Chilmark, West Tisbury, Tisbury, Oak Bluffs, would also like to express my sincere SUPPORTS YOU! Edgartown, Nantucket BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020 5 firstprioritycu.com
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Jack enjoying a photo, along Waltham Shop Stewards Rick Nourse and Ed Walsh and a few coworkers.
John”Jack” Haley - Waltham Retiree along with Shop Steward Ed Walsh and Manager Joyce Dervan. Jack Haley on his last day in Waltham.
IMC-East Boston retiree Paul Cacchiotti along with Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy and Shop Stewards John Fanning and Emilio Leone.
IMC-East Boston’s Paul Cacchiotti
IMC-East Boston retiree Paul Cacchiotti receiving his retirement jacket from Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy.
We love our hometown heroes and want to show our appreciation by Available for PURCHASE or REFINANCE helping them achieve the dream of Do not have to be a first homeownership! As a member of the time home buyer Boston Branch 34 NALC, you qualify No income limits for homeownership savings! No restriction on property location Applies to Conventional, Now Offering: FHA, VA, & USDA Loans BANK CLOSING FEES WAIVED! Estimated Savings up to Register For Our $1,900!! Home Loan Webinar on December 3rd, 2020 7:30PM Rosanna Ruta NMLS 1954998 Work (631) 479-2415 Cell (516)749-7966 [email protected] www.cardinalfinancial.com/rosannaruta
This is not a loan commitment or guarantee of any kind. Loan approval and rate are dependent upon borrower credit, collateral, financial history, and program availability at time of origination. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Corporate Address: 3701 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Charlotte, North Carolina 28273. Cardinal Financial Company, Limited Partnership (NMLS ID 66247, www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) has the following licenses: AZ Mortgage Banker License #0925883; Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license, License No. 603K498; Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee #16020; Kansas Licensed Mortgage Company #MC.0025207; Massachusetts Mortgage Lender/Broker License MC66247; NV Mortgage Company Licenses #3967 & #3968; Licensed by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance #8701663; Licensed Mortgage Banker - NYS Banking Department #B500951; Rhode Island Licensed Lender #20132934LL; and is also approved to lend in: AL, AK, AR, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KY, LA, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NH, NM, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY. Additional licensing information can be found at: https://cardinalfinancial.com/licensing/. BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020 7 More Branch 34 Retirees Saluted Back Bay’sBay’s Michael “Mike” McCormack
Back Bay Shop Stewards John DiBlasi and Lucy Warren join Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy in wishing Mike McCormack a happy retirement.
Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy presents Back Bay retiree Mike McCormack with his jacket and watch.
Arlington’s Steven “Skybar” Lusardi
Arlington’s George McCarthy, John Anastos, Retiree Steve Lusardi, Vinny Fratalia, Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy, Corrinne Boyd, Billy Leddy, Fred London and Steve Dwyer. Arlington retirees along with the Shop Stewards come out to celebrate Steve Lusardi’s retirement – Shop Steward Sean Mullett, George McCarthy, Vinny Fratalia, John Anastos, Steven “Steve” Lusardi, Billy Leddy, Fred London, Steve Dwyer and Shop Steward Anthony Falco. Roxbury’s Nathaniel “Nate” Brown
Roxbury Shop Stewards Keith Meredith, Samie Smith and John Galvin join retiree Nate Brown and his wife in the photo booth.
Steve Lusardi’s last punch.
Roxbury Retiree Nathaniel “Nate” Brown is being recognized for his years of service, joined by Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy and Postmaster of Boston Leroy Middleton, along with his coworkers.
Roxbury Retiree Nate Brown with his wife, join President Jerry McCarthy in the retirement photo booth as he is wished a happy, healthy and safe retirement.
Arlington retiree Steve Lusardi can’t believe the day has come.
8 BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020 Fort Point’sPoint’s Benedict “Benny” Faletra
Fort Point Shop Steward Chris Thompson, Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy and co-worker Elizabeth Purvis helps celebrate Benny’s retirement. Fort Point Steward Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy looks on as Benedict ‘Benny” Faletra Retiree Benny Faletra admires his new jacket. making his last swipe.
Woburn Retiree Deborah Salmon admiring her new jacket. Woburn Shop Steward Vigo Conte along with co-workers makes Deborah Salmon’s retirement special.
WWoburn’soburn’s Deborah Salmon
Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy recognizes Fort Point retiree Benedict “Benny” Faletra receives a Deborah and her retirement. We all wish Deborah commemorative NALC watch from a Happy, Healthy and Safe Retirement. Branch 34 President Jerry McCarthy. Corner Thank You for MDA Donations! s I mentioned in our last issue of Thank you to Mike Bertrand! All of ABranch 34’s CLAN, our fundraising your hard work is appreciated. efforts have taken a big hit due to the A few other stations and businesses Coronavirus. But just like in our last issue also came through for the MDA, they are: we do have another bright spot to report. Back Bay ...... $620.00 Hingham/Hull Steward, Mike Bertrand Malden ...... $300.00 had a great bar in Hingham called The Newtonville ...... $294.00 Snug sell MDA Shamrocks. Even though Cambridge ...... $200.00 the lockdown happened before St Pat- N. Quincy ...... $924.00 rick’s Day, this pub came through. They Woburn Northern Bank & Trust ...$236.00 raised a total of $830.00 for the MDA!!! Postal Credit Union ...... $264.00 If you should ever find yourself in Hing- Fraternally, ham and are looking for a place to eat or George Adams have a cocktail please consider The Snug! Branch 34 Boston MDA Chairman Thank you to Mike Bertrand and The Snug in Hingham for their generous donation of $830.00 to the MDA!
Woburn Shop Stewards Vigo Conte and Richard Bucci, along with Woburn Letter Carriers and Branch 34 Vice President Bernadette Romans continue to support the Henry Shaughnessy Food Drive. BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020 9 Twas’ the Night Before Christmas Twas’ the night before Christmas, when all through the Hall
Not a carrier had questions, not even a call
The grievances were filed, they were filled out with care
All ready for St. Steward who soon would appear
The carriers were home, all snug in their beds,
While visions of compensation danced in their heads
Management with their contentions and I with my facts,
Hoped our grievances would get settled and no one gets sacked
When out on the workroom floor there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my desk to see what was the matter
Away to the union office, I flew like a jackal
Tore open the JCAM and threw down my satchel
The contract violations shown all the grievance cash
And gave luster to much more that soon we would stashÅ
When what to my wondering eyes, not another manager shivering in fear
But instead, a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer
With a little ole driver, so lively we all heard Long-time Branch 34 Officer Kevin Flaherty continues to assist Letter Carriers every day in his new position as Regional Grievance Assistant for Region 14. I knew in a moment; it must be St. Steward! Where Are They Now? More rapid than eagles, his courses they came Kevin Flaherty He whistled and shouted and called them by name ong-time Branch officer, Kevin Flaherty was appointed as a Regional Grievance Assistant (RGA) by President Rolando back in 2019. So, although he left the Branch “Now Scrivano! Now Rooney! Now Fanning and L office, he hasn’t stopped representing letter carriers, he’s just representing more of us. Leone! On Ciulla! On Cooper! On DeBerardinis and A quick look at his resume shows why President Rolando chose him: Keirstead, et all! • Hyde Park steward throughout the 90’s • Was elected Area Steward, 2001 File away, file away, file away all! • Elected Financial-Secretary, 2004 • In 2006, he was appointed the Secretary-Treasurer and he served there until 2016 Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to everyone • And in 2016, he was elected Executive Vice-President He recently told me he enjoys his new job and the different challenges it presents. and their Family! The job was created to ensure that every carrier, regardless of the Branch’s size or their resources has the representation they deserve. Well, it’s good to see that the rest – John Fucile of Region 14 is in good hands with Kevin (I still call him for advice). Even though Branch 34 Area Steward we all miss him we wish him well and great success in his new position. – Michael Murray, Branch 34 Secretary-Treasurer Congratulations In Memoriam Retirees! Edwin “Gerry” Linehan* Retired Member n behalf of President McCarthy, the – Medford OBoard of Officers and the Brothers Joseph F. Macaluso* and Sisters of Branch 34, we extend our Retired Member – Somerville wishes for a long, happy, healthy and well-deserved retirement to the following Paul Ryan Retired Member recently retired members: – Wellesley Hills Nathaniel “Nate” Brown ...... Roxbury Paul Senior Paul Cacchiotti ...... IMC East Boston Retired Member – Waltham Benedict “Benny” Faletra ...... Fort Point John “Jack” Haley ...... Waltham Thomas “Tommy” Vreeland ACTIVE Member Mark Lester ...... Wellesley Square – IMC Winthrop Steven “Steve” Lusardi ...... Arlington * Denotes Gold Card Member MDA Fundraiser Michael “Mike” McCormack ....Back Bay William “Bill” Rooney ... Hingham/Hull Rest in Peace NALC Winter Hats $15 Deborah Salmon ...... Woburn If interested in selling in your office, please contact Correction Richard Bucci in Woburn, 1-603-440-8879 n the last issue of “Branch 34’s CLAN,” West Roxbury retiree Dave MaGuire’s Iname was incorrectly spelled. We apologize for this error. 10 BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020 SIGN ME UP! How to Contribute to the Letter Carrier Political Fund (NALC’s PAC)
Using Using Postal EASE – ONLINE Enrollment Postal EASE – Enroll by PHONE
Using Using ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFER Your Retirement ANNUITY
By making a contribution to the Letter Carrier Political Fund, you are doing so voluntarily with the understanding that your contribution is not a condition of membership in the National Association of Letter Carriers or of employment by the Postal Service, nor is it part of union dues. You have a right to refuse to contribute without any reprisal. The Letter Carrier Political Fund will use the money it receives to contribute to candidates for federal office and undertake other political spending as permitted by law. Your selection shall remain in full force and effect until cancelled. Contributions to the Letter Carrier Political Fund are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Federal law prohibits the Letter Carrier Political Fund from soliciting contributions from individuals who are not NALC members, executive and administrative staff or their families. Any contribution received from such an individual will be refunded to that contributor. Save Your Job! Use Your Voice! Contribute to the Letter Carrier Political Fund!
BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020 11 Jerry McCarthy, President CALENDCALENDARAR YEAR 20202121 Bob Simpson, Executive Vice President Bernadette Romans, Vice President ROROTATINGTATING NON-SCHEDULED DAYSDAYS Michael Murray, Secretary-Treasurer Robert Damatin, Financial Secretary Ross Murray, Editor, Branch 34’s CLAN TION OF IA LE Joseph DeMambro, Health Benefit Officer OC TT S E S R Dan Kelley, Sergeant-at-Arms
A C Rich Galvin, Clerk, NSBA-MBA L A
A R Laura Wood-Fahey, Area Steward
R N R
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I John Fucile, Area Steward
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S John Lucey, Area Steward N N B Dave O’Connor, Area Steward R N A O Paul Roche, Trustee NC ST H 34 BO Vigo Conte, Trustee Dan O’Connor, Trustee 400 West Cummings Park, Suite 3950 | Woburn, MA 01801 | T/781-281-1133 | F/781-281-1127 | www.nalcbranch34.com 1 Legal National Holidays Branch Meetings at 7 PM/Location TBA Paydays 10% Boston/Cambridge Leave Information JANUARY 2021 FEBRUARY 2021 MARCH 2021 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 10% AA 10% DEFA B B 10% FABC D D 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 10% BCDE F F 10% CDEF A A 10% EFABCC 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 10% ABCDEE 12% BCDEFF 10% DEFA B B 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 1819 20 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 10% FABC D D 10% ABCD E E 10% CDEFAA 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 10% EF A B C C 10% 10% BC D 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 28 29 30 31 10% CHRISTMAS SCHOOL VACATION FEBRUARY SCHOOL VACATION CANVAS CARRIERS FOR PRIME TIME VACATIONS 31 1: NEW YEAR’S DAY 14: VALENTINE’S DAY 17: ASH WEDNESDAY 17: ST. PATRICK’S DAY / EVACUATION DAY 18: M.L. KING JR. DAY 15: PRESIDENT’S DAY 28: PASSOVER BEGINS APRIL 2021 MAY 2021 JUNE 2021 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 10% E F F 10% B 16% FABC C 8: NALC FOOD DRIVE 1 2 3 1 1 2 3 4 5 10% ABCDEE 10% CDEFA 14% A 16% DEFA B B 4 5 67 8 9 10 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 10% FABC D D 14% BCDEFF 16% CDEFAA 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 12% EFABCC 14% ABCDEE 16% BCDE F F 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 10% D E F A B 14% FAB C D D 16% AB C 25 26 27 28 29 30 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 27 28 29 30 16% E APRIL SCHOOL VACATION 16: RETIREE LUNCHEON 30 31 2: GOOD FRIDAY 19: PATRIOTS DAY 9: MOTHER’S DAY 14: FLAG DAY 4: EASTER SUNDAY 31: MEMORIAL DAY 20: FATHER’S DAY JULY 2021 AUGUST 2021 SEPTEMBER 2021 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 16% DE E 16% BCDE F F 16% FA B B 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 16% FABC D D 16% ABCDE E 16% CDEFAA 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 16% EFABCC 16% FABC D D 16% BCDE FF 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 16% DEFA B B 16% EFABCC 16% ABCDEE 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16% CD E F A A 16% DE 16% F A B C 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 31 26 27 28 29 30
18: LAST DAY FOR FALL 2021 NON-CHOICE VACATION
4: INDEPENDENCE DAY 6: LABOR DAY 15: YOM KIPPUR BEGINS NO BRANCH MEETINGS IN JULY & AUGUST 6: ROSH HASHANAH BEGINS OCTOBER 2021 NOVEMBER 2021 DECEMBER 2021 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 16% D D 10% ABCD EE E 10% EFA A 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 2 1 2 3 4 14% EFABCC 10% FABC D D 10% BCDE F F 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 14% DEFA B B 10% EFABCC 10% ABCDEE0% 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10% CDEFAA 10%+1 DEFA B B 0% FABC D D 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 10% BC D E F F 10% C D 10% EF AB C 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31 10% 30: LAST DAY FOR 2022 NON-CHOICE VACATION CHRISTMAS SCHOOL VACATION 31 11: COLUMBUS DAY 2: ELECTION DAY 25: THANKSGIVING DAY 24: CHRISTMAS EVE 26: KWANZAA BEGINS 31: HALLOWEEN 11: VETERANS’ DAY 28: HANUKKAH BEGINS 25: CHRISTMAS DAY 31: NEW YEAR’S EVE
12 BRANCH 34’s CLAN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020