Volume 134/Number 6 June 2021 In this issue President’s Message 1 Branch Election Notices 35 National Officers 36 Branch Items 56

The monthly journal of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LETTER CARRIERS Congress goes to work on postal reform —PAGES 6-9 InstallInstall thethe freefree NALCNALC MemberMember AppApp forfor youryour iPhoneiPhone oror AndroidAndroid smartphonesmartphone

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Understanding Medicare integration under postal reform hanks to the biparti- as Medicare is the primary payer of health bills for those 65 and san bill H.R. 3076 that older; FEHB plans cover only the costs of deductibles and co- advanced through the pays. H.R. 3076 also would lower the cost of postal FEHB plans House of Representa- by requiring such plans to take advantage of Medicare Part D tives Committee on subsidies for health plans that provide prescription drug bene- TOversight and Reform in May, fits—subsidies that are available to company health plans in the there is genuine hope for suc- private sector. cess in achieving some of our Of course, about 8 out of 10 retired letter carriers already most important legislative priori- choose to enroll in Medicare Parts A and B when they become ties (see story on page 6). The bill eligible, so the proposed changes in the FEHB Program will not includes three important provi- be especially dramatic. All the major plans will remain available, sions: a reform of the Federal Em- including the market-dominant Blue Cross Blue Shield plan and ployees Health Benefits (FEHB) the NALC Health Benefit Plan. Program that would allow the We have worked hard with allies in Congress to shape the leg- Postal Service and its employees islation in ways that address employees and annuitants who are and retirees to maximize savings in special circumstances. First, in the rare event that no postal on health insurance costs via in- plan is available to a participant (in highly rural places, for exam- tegration with Medicare on a pro- ple), he or she can enroll in a non-postal FEHB plan. Second, if a spective basis; a repeal of the re- Fredric V. postal employee’s current health plan does not offer a postal ver- tiree health pre-funding mandate sion of that plan, he or she can stay in that non-postal plan. How- Rolando (as provided by the USPS Fairness ever, if the employee ever switches plans, he or she may choose Act); and a provision to make six-day delivery of mail and pack- any of the postal plans. Third, if a future annuitant lives abroad or ages a statutory obligation (currently, it is enforced by an appro- in a place where there are no Medicare providers, enrollment in priations bill that must be renewed annually). a non-postal plan will be available. Similarly, if a future annuitant This month, I want to focus on what we have done to shape the has coverage from Veterans Affairs or the Indian Health Service FEHB and Medicare provisions to protect the interests of our mem- and therefore does not need Medicare, he or she may enroll in bers, both active and retired. The health care reforms outlined in a non-postal FEHB plan. Finally, the bill includes a one-time op- H.R. 3076 would lower the cost of health insurance under FEHB portunity for post-age-65 annuitants who chose not to enroll in for active and retired postal employees alike, which would help Medicare Part B at age 65 to do so, with no late enrollment pen- both the Postal Service and its current and former employees. This alty, by choosing a postal plan in FEHB. This will be a great benefit would improve the Postal Service’s net income and make the bil- for annuitants who regret not having enrolled in Part B at age 65, lions in funds deposited in our retiree health fund last longer (be- since the penalties are very stiff (raising Part B premiums 10 per- fore the Postal Service returns to the pay-as-you-go system of fund- cent for each year after age 65). ing retiree health premiums that existed before 2007). Enacting H.R. 3076 is going to be hard work. There is a long The bill would place most postal participants in FEHB into one way to go. The bill must be considered by two other House com- insurance pool (separate from other federal employees and annui- mittees that share jurisdiction over the Medicare program (Ways tants) and require most existing FEHB insurers to offer postal and and Means as well as Energy and Commerce), go to the House non-postal versions of their plans. Most active postal employees floor for a vote and then pass the Senate, where it must with- (those under age 64 as of Jan. 1, 2023) would automatically be stand possible filibusters. Thanks to the work of our commit- enrolled in the new postal plans in 2023, which will include au- tee’s chairwoman, Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), and its ranking tomatic enrollment in Medicare Part A (hospital services) and Part member, Rep. James Comer (R-KY), who together co-sponsored B (medical services) once they retire and reach age 65. Current H.R. 3076, we are off to a good bipartisan start—the bill won the annuitants and employees aged 64 or older (as of Jan. 1, 2023) unanimous support of committee Democrats and Republicans. may decide whether or not to enroll in Medicare, and can there- As we move forward, we must mobilize active and retired letter fore choose to remain in non-postal plans if they decline Medicare. carriers alike to push their representatives in Washington to work Fortunately, the cost of these non-postal plans would not rise as a together to finally make postal reform a reality after a decade and result of this reform. Annuitants who choose to enroll in the postal a half of struggle. Watch this space. plans would automatically be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. Having future annuitants enrolled in Medicare would reduce the cost of FEHB premiums for all participants in the postal pool,

June 2021 The Postal Record 1 Cover illustration by Jim Starr National Association of Letter Carriers, AFL-CIO Contents Since 1889, representing city letter carriers employed by the United States Postal Service. Volume 134/Number 6 June 2021 100 Indiana Ave. NW Washington, DC 20001-2144 202-393-4695 | nalc.org

RESIDENT OFFICERS FREDRIC V. ROLANDO MANUEL L. PERALTA JR. President Director of Safety and Health BRIAN RENFROE DAN TOTH The monthly journal of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LETTER CARRIERS Executive Vice President Director of Retired Members LEW DRASS JAMES W. “JIM” YATES Vice President Director of Life Insurance NICOLE RHINE Mutual Benefit Association Secretary-Treasurer 202-638-4318 PAUL BARNER STEPHANIE M. STEWART Assistant Secretary-Treasurer Director, Health Benefit Plan CHRISTOPHER JACKSON Health Benefit Plan Director of City Delivery 888-636-6252

BOARD OF TRUSTEES LAWRENCE D. BROWN JR. 774 Valencia Street Los Angeles, CA 90017 MIKE GILL MACK I. JULION 18682 SW 93 Court 3850 S. Wabash Ave. Cutler Bay, FL 33157 Chicago, IL 60653 NATIONAL BUSINESS AGENTS Region 1: BRYANT ALMARIO Region 9: LYNNE PENDLETON (California, Hawaii, Nevada, Guam) (Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, 3105 E. Guasti Road, Suite 200 South Carolina) Ontario, CA 91761 1101 Northchase Parkway SE, Suite 3 909-443-7450 Marietta, GA 30067 678-942-5295 Region 2: NICK VAFIADES 32 (Alaska, Utah, Idaho, Montana, Region 10: JAVIER BERNAL Oregon, Washington) (New Mexico, Texas) 5115 NE 94th Ave., Suite A 23760 Hwy. 59 North Departments Features Vancouver, WA 98662 Kingwood, TX 77339 360-892-6545 281-540-5627 1 President’s Message 4 News from Washington Region 3: MICHAEL B. CAREF Region 11: MARK CAMILLI 3 Letter from the Editor Senate committee confirms two (Illinois) (Upstate New York, Ohio) 4 News 4979 Indiana Ave., Suite 203 5445 Beavercrest Drive, Suite 7 USPS BOG nominations; mean- Lisle, IL 60532-3848 Lorain, OH 44053 26 Proud to Serve while, the White House releases 630-743-5320 440-282-4340 30 Veterans Group the American Families Plan, and a Region 4: DAN VERSLUIS Region 12: BRIAN THOMPSON 35 Election Notices paid family and medical leave bill (Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, (Pennsylvania, South and Central 36 Executive Vice President Oklahoma, Wyoming) New Jersey) is introduced in the Senate 12015 E. 46th Ave., Suite 550 Four Neshaminy Interplex, Suite 111 37 Vice President Denver, CO 80239 Trevose, PA 19053 6 Congress looks at postal reform 720-828-6840 215-824-4826 38 Secretary-Treasurer 39 Assistant Secretary-Treasurer During a period of intense public Region 5: MICHAEL BIRKETT Region 13: VADA E. PRESTON 40 Director of City Delivery scrutiny of the Postal Service, (Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas) (Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West House lawmakers introduce the 1828 Craig Road Virginia, Washington, DC) 41 Director of Safety and Health St. Louis, MO 63146 P.O. Box 2660 Postal Service Reform Act of 2021 314-985-8040 Ashburn, VA 20146 42 Director of Retired Members 703-840-2010 43 Director of Life Insurance 10 Carriers during COVID-19 Region 6: TROY CLARK (Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan) Region 14: RICHARD J. DICECCA 44 Director, Health Benefit Plan We talk to some new letter carri- 43456 Mound Road, Suite 501 (Connecticut, Maine, Massachu- 45 Contract Talk ers who have only known the job Sterling Heights, MI 48314 setts, New Hampshire, Rhode 586-997-9917 Island, Vermont) 47 Muscular Dystrophy Association under pandemic conditions 33 Boston Post Road W., Suite 360 48 Staff Reports Region 7: TROY D. FREDENBURG Marlborough, MA 01752-1813 50 Annuity charts 17 Task force off to good start (Minnesota, North Dakota, South 617-363-9299 NALC and USPS establish task force Dakota, Wisconsin) 52 State Summaries Broadway Place West Region 15: LARRY CIRELLI 53 Honor Roll to jointly seek methods to improve 1300 Godward St. NE, Suite 2600 (Northern New Jersey, New York, the cultural and operational envi- Minneapolis, MN 55413 SW Connecticut, Puerto Rico, Virgin 55 Nalcrest Update/Retiree Reports 612-378-3035 Islands) ronment in city delivery offices 347 W. 41st St., Suite 102 56 Branch Items Region 8: STEVE LASSAN New York, NY 10036-6941 61 Cost-of-living adjustment (Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, 212-868-0284 20 Being safe in the sun Tennessee) 64 Auxiliary Update Given that carriers often spend 160 Commissioner Drive 65 Mutual Exchange ads/ Meridianville, AL 35759-2038 hours in the sun on the route, we 256-828-8205 In Memoriam can’t forget about protecting our skin

2 The Postal Record June 2021 Letter from the Editor

Mail, carriers, multimedia wo Cleveland girls spent six “It looks like the postwar suburbs of the 1950s and 1960s in months researching/producing a a lot of ways, single-family row houses and more,” Anna says. Tfilm about free mail delivery’s ori- “But people don’t go to work, and there are no playgrounds. gins and value for the annual National That’s why Nalcrest is so cool. It looks like a suburb, it acts like a History Day competition. Amid 600,000 suburb, but it’s not a suburb.” contestants in 50 states, 12-year-old The developer tried to build other retirement communities, twins Aanya and Siya Lakireddy soared. “but they all failed,” she observes. “Nalcrest succeeded be- The judges liked the narration, praised cause of the strength of the union. I came away from my visit their source material—and reveled in the with the sense that the commitment is still there. I think that’s a topic. The sisters captured third place in testament to the union.” Cleveland’s regional contest, then third Boston Branch 34’s Anthony Denucce’s preferred medium for again in Ohio’s April 26 state competi- his music with a twist is television. The 24-year letter carrier plays tion. They also won the American His- molar music—tapping his teeth with his fingers. He started in tory Film Project Prize, so their 10-min- third grade, while trying to think of test answers. Others enjoyed ute documentary will remain available it, so he kept with it. online. “I didn’t really pursue it,” Anthony says. “I have a career. But Philip This year’s theme: Communications people keep asking me to do it, so I just go with the flow, and as in History. you can see, it’s taken me places.” Dine “The mail has always been delivered To David Letterman’s show. “The Gong Show.” Professional to us by letter carriers,” Aanya says. baseball stadiums. Now, to “America’s Got Talent,” summer- “I wanted to find out how that happened. We should be grate- time’s biggest TV show. After two home video auditions in Febru- ful, because mail is really what started communication among ary, he was among 200 (of 200,000 aspirants) invited to perform people.” in California before judges Howie, Simon, Heidi and Sofia. Siya adds, “I learned a lot about free mail delivery and the first “I was surrounded by talent from all over the world,” Anthony mail carrier. Joseph Briggs invented something that would actu- says. “I’m thinking, ‘I’m just a mailman.’ ” ally change the world today.” Before ushering Anthony on stage, actor/host Terry Crews en- After their mother, Manjula, read in a local history newsletter couraged him: “Do it for your letter carriers!” that Cleveland’s Briggs had pioneered free delivery in 1863, they “I told the audience I was a mailman,” Anthony recounts, approached NALC in March. We sent them a Postal Record article “and that during the pandemic we’ve seen many of our custom- as a primary source. The documentary’s credits lead with NALC ers losing their job, having to quarantine, and the best we can do and include the Postal Service, Library of Congress and National is try to deliver a smile for them every day. Postal Museum. “I got a standing ovation. I didn’t expect it. Twenty-five sec- “Whenever I see a mail carrier now, I make sure I wave to onds is a long time to stand there, as people just clapped. I kept them,” Manjula says, “because I have so much respect for them.” saying ‘Thank you’; they just kept going. I sort of teared up.” Social studies teacher Connie Miller, who oversees the history The 200 filmed tryouts will air Tuesdays, June to September, contest at their school, was fascinated to learn how free mail de- with the judges choosing 44 contestants for live TV in Septem- livery began: “The fact that it wasn’t always there really surprised ber, when Americans vote for the ultimate winner. Anthony me. We take so much for granted.” thinks letter carriers already have succeeded. Now this award-winning teacher plans to add it to a curriculum “It’s good for us. I think speaking for the Post Office, that was list of “outstanding” local history topics. the drawing point. They appreciated my story, our story.” View the film at americanhistoryfilmproject.org/improving- Anthony can be found on Instagram at @anthony_molarman communication-through-mail. or on YouTube by searching “Anthony the Molar Man.” NALC’s retirement community for letter carriers has received EDITORIAL STAFF: Subscription included in membership dues. widespread media attention, but is about to get rarified coverage Director of Communications and Media First-class subscription available Relations Philip Dine for $20 per year (contact Membership in a scholarly journal—because an accomplished academic finds Designer/Web Editor Mike Shea Department). the place “really cool.” Writer/Editor Rick Hodges Writer/Editor Jenessa Wagner © 2021 by the National Association of Letter Nalcrest will grace the pages of Arris: Journal of the South- Editorial Assistant Clare Foley Carriers. east Chapter of the Society of Architectural Historians, thanks to Circulation: 287,000. Union-printed using The Postal Record (ISSN 0032-5376) soy-based inks. Anna Andrzejewski, a University of Wisconsin professor special- is published monthly by the National Association of Letter Carriers. Periodicals CHANGE of ADDRESS? Contact the Member- izing in the social history of architecture. Her research included postage paid at Washington, DC, and at ship Department. additional mailing offices. NALC archives at Wayne State University, old Postal Record ar- Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram ticles, and a visit to Nalcrest. POSTMASTER: Send address changes and YouTube by going to NALC.org. to Membership Department, NALC, Dual factors intrigued her: Nalcrest’s unique nature, and its 100 Indiana Ave. NW, Washington, success. DC 20001-2144.

June 2021 The Postal Record 3 News

News from Washington Senate confirms two Postal Service Board of Governor nominees ay was a busy month on Capitol Hill on postal is- Msues with two bills seeing action (see page 6) and two of three postal nominations advancing. On May 13, the Senate approved the nominations of Amber McReynolds and Ronald Stroman to serve on the U.S. Postal Service Board of Gover- nors (BOG). McReynolds will hold a Ronald Stroman Amber McReynolds Anton Hajjar Kiran Ahuja term that expires on Dec. 8, 2026, and Stroman’s term will expire on Dec. 8, attacks. He currently serves on the Ameri- man (R-OH) also emphasized the 2028. These confirmations are effective can Law Institute’s governing board. important role of the BOG. “Providing immediately and will fill two of three On April 28, the Senate Committee high-quality mail and package services vacant BOG seats. on Homeland Security and Govern- to all Americans remains vital,” he said. The Senate vote on a third nominee, ment Affairs (HSGAC) advanced the “If confirmed, you have a challenging Anton Hajjar, is still pending. nominations of Hajjar, McReynolds road ahead, and I hope you will work McReynolds is one of the country’s and Stroman for the BOG and Kiran closely with us, and your colleagues leading experts on election administra- Ahuja as director of the Office of Per- already on the Board, to see it through.” tion/policy and is co-author of the book sonnel Management (OPM). During the hearing, the nominees When Women Vote. She is chief execu- In his opening statement, Hajjar ref- were questioned on a range of topics tive officer of the National Vote at Home erenced the opportunities within USPS including declining service quality, Institute and Coalition and the former to grow business and improve service the universal service obligation, and director of elections for Denver, CO, for the American people. McReynolds opportunities for enhancements and where she developed one of the nation’s mentioned the crucial role USPS plays innovations within USPS. most sophisticated vote-by-mail systems. in our democracy by delivering ballots The three nominees agreed that Stroman is the former deputy post- and emphasized that universal service improving service was one of their top master general and chief government obligation is a top priority. Stroman priorities, and they committed to work- relations officer for the Postal Service. spoke about the commitment and resil- ing with the BOG and Congress to do He retired in 2020. Prior to joining USPS, ience of USPS employees, his experi- so if confirmed. The nominees reiter- Stroman worked on Capitol Hill, serving ence with the Postal Service, and his ated their commitment to working with the House’s Committee on Oversight goal to work in a bipartisan manner to the postmaster general, the BOG and and Government Reform and the House restore financial stability, improve op- stakeholders to improve service. Judiciary Committee. In addition, he erations and grow business for USPS. Ahuja, an attorney who served as served in the Department of Transporta- “The Postal Service and its dedicated chief of staff to the OPM director from tion and the Department of Housing and workers continue facing unique chal- 2015 to 2017 and spent six years as Urban Development. Stroman also led lenges that have been compounded director of the White House Initiative on the Biden-Harris transition team for the by the ongoing pandemic,” HSGAC Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, Postal Service, which included NALC Chairman Gary Peters (D-MI) said. “It was also questioned during the hearing. Chief of Staff Jim Sauber. is essential that nominees to the Board If confirmed, Ahuja would lead OPM, the Hajjar is the former general counsel of Governors are qualified leaders who federal agency that provides human re- of the American Postal Workers Union. will focus on service, and work with sources policy and manages health care, Hajjar’s experience includes pro bono Congress to ensure our postal workforce life insurance, and retirement benefits representation of victims of employment has the right support to deliver for the for federal employees and retirees. discrimination, including Arab and Mus- American people each and every day.” Regarding postal employees, Sen. lim Americans after the Sept. 11 terrorist HSGAC Ranking Member Rob Port- Tom Carper (D-DE) asked Ahuja to

4 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 commit to reviewing a recommenda- month for leave required to care for a tives. Partisan tensions remain high in tion to adopt private-sector pension child, an ill family member, personal Congress, and White House officials allocation for USPS if confirmed. NALC illness and other such circumstances. have reiterated that President Biden is supports this change. Overall, the plan expands the scope open to discussing ideas on how to fund The nominees received the support of universal public education by and invest in programs in the plan. of all Democratic committee mem- proposing $200 billion for free pre- “NALC appreciates President Biden’s bers. Hajjar, Reynolds and Stroman all school and $109 billion for two years of efforts to strengthen America’s social received support from Portman while tuition-free community college. It also safety net, which has been seriously McReynolds and Stroman received would invest $85 billion in Pell grants. weakened by state-level cuts over support from Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT). The plan includes investment in child the past several decades,” President Ahjula’s nomination, which received care, ensuring that lower- and middle- Rolando said. “We look forward to no support from Republicans, will go to income families would spend no more working with both parties in Congress the full Senate for a confirmation vote. than 7 percent of their income on on legislation inspired by his plan that “NALC congratulates McReynolds child care. Additionally, the proposal would improve the lives of our nation’s and Stroman on their confirmations to includes $45 billion for nutrition pro- workers and their families.” these important positions,” said NALC grams, including free and reduced-price President Fredric Rolando. “A fully meals for children across the country. Paid family and medical leave functioning Postal Board of Governors The plan makes permanent elements bill introduced in Senate and competent leadership at the OPM of the short-term American Rescue On April 15, Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI) are critical for letter carriers and other Plan passed in March, including the introduced the Comprehensive Paid postal employees. We look forward to child tax credit, the dependent tax Leave for Federal Employees Act (S. 1158) working with them and the rest of the credit and the earned income tax in the Senate. The bill, which mirrors BOG to ensure that letter carriers have credit. It also proposes lowering health H.R. 564, introduced by Rep. Carolyn a voice when decisions affecting their care premiums for those covered by Maloney (D-NY) in the House in January, interests are made.” Obamacare exchanges. would provide up to 12 weeks of paid The White House proposes funding family and medical leave for federal White House releases the American Families Plan with tax employees, including Postal Service the American Families Plan increases for high-income Americans employees. On April 28, the White House re- that would raise $1.5 trillion over the A similar bill, the Federal Employee leased the American Families Plan, a next 10 years. The plan would raise the Paid Leave Act, previously passed in the $1 trillion plan that seeks to increase top income tax rate from 37 percent House during the 116th Congress, but access to education, provide paid fam- to 39.6 percent, reversing a portion the Senate narrowed the legislation to 12 ily and medical leave, and make health of the 2017 tax cuts implemented by weeks of paid parental leave, which ulti- care and child care more affordable the previous administration. The tax mately did not include USPS employees. and more accessible. The American increases would not affect anyone Employees could use the paid leave Families Plan is the second major part earning less than $400,000 per year. for personal illness, caring for a family of President Joe Biden’s economic The plan also proposes full funding member, or time off work needed for recovery plan, following the American of the Internal Revenue Service to im- a family member leaving or returning Jobs Plan released March 31. prove tax enforcement and auditing on from active military duty. Currently, As it relates to letter carriers, the plan the wealthiest Americans, which the federal employees are entitled to 12 calls for a new national program pro- White House projects would raise $700 weeks of leave under the Family and viding paid family and medical leave billion over the next decade. Medical Leave Act for such reasons, for all workers. By Year 10 of the pro- The American Families Plan is an but they are not guaranteed paid leave. gram, the $225 billion investment would ambitious proposal, and it is up to the NALC will continue to monitor this guarantee workers 12 weeks of paid House and Senate to craft legislation legislation and will update letter carri- leave with payments of up to $4,000 a that reflects the administration’s initia- ers on any future actions. PR

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 5 News

Congress takes up postal reform ollowing months of negotia- also successfully lobbied to ensure tions during a period of intense exceptions to the requirement F public scrutiny of the U.S. Postal to enroll in Medicare for those Service, House lawmakers have intro- covered under other insurance duced the Postal Service Reform Act arrangements (such as the VA) and of 2021 (H.R. 3076). The bipartisan for those who live in a place where legislation encompasses an agreement there are not Medicare-participat- made between House Committee on ing providers. Oversight and Reform (COR) Chair- Because they have jurisdiction over woman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and the Medicare program, the bill will be Ranking Member James Comer (R-KY), referred to the House Committee on who focused on essential provisions of Ways and Means as well as the House consensus, setting aside matters that Committee on Energy and Commerce could undermine the bill’s prospects. for possible amendments before it As this magazine was going to print, can be debated by the entire House of H.R. 3076 passed out of committee on Representatives. a voice vote with no amendments. The “NALC has worked for years to legislation addresses two of NALC’s educate members of Congress on the top priorities: importance of having postal reform • The repeal of the mandate that the legislation that repeals the pre-funding Postal Service pre-fund decades’ mandate and coordinates the proper worth of health benefits for its future integration into Medicare for our mem- retirees, which was enacted through bers,” NALC President Fredric Rolando the Postal Accountability and said. “We have significant work to do, Enhancement Act (PAEA) of 2006, but NALC’s influence and advocacy on embracing the bipartisan USPS Fair- these issues is the reason they were ness Act (H.R. 695 and S. 145). included in this vital legislation. This • A reform of the Federal Employees influence is made possible only by the Health Benefits (FEHB) Program to hard work of NALC’s network of letter maximize participation in Medi- carrier activists.” care once active postal employees H.R. 3076 also includes language (as of Jan. 1, 2023) retire and reach that requires the Postal Service to age 65. Annuitants as of Jan. 1, maintain an “integrated” network of 2023, will be given the choice of both mail and packages six days a whether to remain in the existing week. If this bill becomes law, USPS FEHB system or participate in the will be required to maintain mail postal version of the program that delivery six days a week. Since 1983, requires enrollment in Medicare the mandate to deliver mail six days a Parts A and B, and retirees over week has required yearly renewal in the age of 65 who have chosen not the appropriations process. This bill to enroll in Medicare Part B will be would eliminate the need for the an- given a one-time opportunity to do nual fight to maintain this mandate. so with no late-enrollment penalty. In addition, the bill requires the Annuitants who elect to remain in Postal Service to provide semiannual the existing FEHB will not be re- reports to Congress on the imple- quired to enroll in Medicare. NALC mentation of its 10-year strategic

6 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 plan; provides for a public dashboard these provisions may lack the broad Why is postal reform needed? using nationwide delivery metrics to bipartisan support necessary to The mandate that USPS pre-fund de- track delivery performance; directs become law. cades’ worth of health benefits for its the Postal Service to use the most While H.R. 3076 has bipartisan future retirees went into effect in 2007. efficient means to transport mail, support, that by itself will not be This is an onerous burden faced by no likely moving from air to ground; enough to see it through to the presi- other public agency or private com- mandates a Postal Regulatory Com- dent’s desk. “For letter carriers, the pany in the country. It had the impact mission (PRC) review of competitive hard work really begins now,” NALC of creating an artificial financial crisis and non-competitive products and President Rolando said. “Bipartisan- that has harmed the Postal Service a study of nationwide processing ship alone is not enough anymore. In ever since. efficiency of flats (magazines and today’s climate, resolution of issues As reported in the Postal Service’s catalogs); provides the PRC with in- and good government policy are annual 10-K financial statements, dependent budget authority through clouded by political tension and nar- the mandate has cost an average of the Postal Fund, preventing it from row margins in both the House and $5.2 billion annually since 2007 and being directly affected by sequestra- Senate, as well as the politicization is responsible for 84 percent of USPS tion/shutdowns; provides a special of the Postal Service in both Congress losses over that period, while account- postage discount for newspapers; and the public. We must overcome all ing for 100 percent of losses from 2013 and consolidates the Postal Service’s of these obstacles to see postal reform to 2018—and actually disguising what and the PRC’s Inspectors General into legislation enacted into law.” otherwise would have been net profits. a single office. The difficulties are compounded by Absent this unique burden, USPS Recognizing that members of the slim majority in the Senate, with would have recorded surpluses of Congress had priorities that were not 50 Republicans, 50 Democrats/In- nearly $4.0 billion in that latter period. going to be addressed in the un- dependents who caucus with Demo- The pre-funding mandate has derlying bill, Chairwoman Maloney crats, and Vice President Kamala prevented the Postal Service from introduced a secondary measure, Harris holding the tiebreaking vote properly investing in its networks. the Postal Service Improvement Act as president of the Senate. As this Even worse, the resulting red ink has (H.R. 3077), which also was consid- publication was going to print, Senate been used both to threaten core ser- ered and advanced out of committee. Homeland Security and Government vices that Americans rely on—such as This second bill includes a variety of Affairs Chairman Gary Peters (D-MI) door-to-door service, six-day delivery provisions, including ballot tracking and Ranking Member Rob Portman and convenient post office hours—and measures for votes cast by mail; paid (R-OH) were beginning discussions on to advance proposals to privatize the parental leave for postal employ- a Senate companion bill. Postal Service and attack the jobs and ees; Merit Systems Protection Board As the legislation progresses in the rights of postal employees. rights for managers and supervisors; House and Senate, NALC will need But where did the pre-funding man- an $8 billion appropriation for the the full engagement of letter carriers date come from? Postal Service to make 75 percent to help educate members of Congress Nobody knew it at the time, but 2006 of its vehicle fleet electric and to on how this legislation will protect marked the end of perhaps the four build charging stations at postal employees and our essential network. most successful years in Postal Service facilities; a requirement that the Keep an eye out for more information history—with positive annual net Postal Service maintain January 2021 in the Government Affairs section of incomes between 2003 and 2006 total- service standards on first-class mail; nalc.org and on the NALC Member ing more than $9 billion. USPS sales a pilot program to study using postal App. Members are encouraged to in- topped $72 billion in 2006. USPS’s debt employees to conduct the Census; stall the app on their smartphones so was just $1.2 billion, a fraction of its and a measure to allow members of that NALC can communicate with you $15 billion debt limit. But the world Congress to inspect postal facilities when the legislation is released and was about to change dramatically, with at their discretion. However, many of when it moves in the halls of Congress. the arrival of the worst recession in

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 7 News

Postal reform (continued) some 80 years. No one could possibly factors had to do with the prior policy private-sector accounting rules do not anticipate what was about to hap- decisions that spurred Congress to take require companies to pre-fund these pen; unfortunately, this included the up postal reform. benefits, the comptroller general of members of Congress who were then In 2003, Congress had reformed the the United States (the head of GAO) debating postal reform legislation in funding rules for the Postal Service’s called on Congress to require all fed- the form of the PAEA. Civil Service Retirement System eral agencies to pre-fund their future The political forces driving action on (CSRS) account. It did so after an audit retiree health benefits—effectively, to postal legislation varied. Some were revealed that USPS would massively apply pension funding rules to retiree ideological. Some were technological. overfund its CSRS pension benefits by health benefits. For various reasons, And some were the practical result of tens of billions of dollars if the funding this proposal made little sense—and it prior policy decisions. rules were not changed. The result- was rejected by both the White House On the ideological front, conserva- ing legislation saw Congress set up an and Congress in the ordinary budget tives dominated Washington with escrow account to hold most of these process in the years before 2006. President George W. Bush in the White excess pension contributions until Unfortunately, GAO’s idea—this House and the Republican Party in it could decide what to do with the time applied only to the Postal Ser- control of both houses of Congress. money. vice—emerged as a perceived poten- Three years earlier, a presidential Meanwhile, the Bush administra- tial solution to the problem created commission had been formed to con- tion’s Office of Personnel Management by the 2003 CSRS funding reform law sider the future of the Postal Service. (OPM) had shifted tens of billions and the troublesome escrow account. Although the commission ultimately of dollars in liabilities for military Congress decided to compel the rejected calls for postal privatization, pension benefits to the Postal Service Postal Service to pre-fund its retiree it did call for improving the costly and when the 2003 law was implemented— health benefits with its excess pen- basically sion contributions and thereby avert making the “We’ve been working on the pre-funding an increase in the budget deficit. This Postal Service is what led to the legislated schedule problem for 15 years now. Repealing the pay for CSRS of 10 annual payments ranging from pre-funding mandate and prospective benefits $5.4 billion to $5.8 billion between Medicare integration have proven to be earned by its employees 2007 and 2016—and to the mandate to the most viable solution for the various during their continue pre-funding even after the stakeholders interested in finding a real prior service first 10 years with so-called “normal in the armed cost” and “amortization” payments. solution that allows the Postal Service to forces. As The Postal Service and its stake- innovate and grow in the years ahead.” funds began holders were reluctant to accept this to pile up in solution, but Congress offered two sig- litigious system of postage rate-setting the escrow nificant inducements. First, it reversed and for placing strict limits on the account, further postal reform was OPM’s cost shift of the $27 billion in kinds of services the Postal Service becoming urgent. Indeed, there was military pension liabilities. Second, it could offer in competition with private real concern that Congress might use gave USPS the right to raise rates one companies. the money for non-postal purposes. last time within one year of enactment On the technological front, there Moreover, the leadership of the Gen- of the law—that is, to build the cost was widespread concern about the eral Accountability Office (GAO) had of pre-funding into the postage rates likely impact of the internet on postal become concerned with the cost of before a new Consumer Price Index volumes and finances. Some worried future retiree health benefits. Congress price-cap system was implemented. about the viability of the Postal Service already had addressed the unfunded (Unfortunately, the USPS declined to in the digital age. liabilities for federal pensions when use this one-time opportunity in the But perhaps the most important it created FERS in 1987. Although face of mailer opposition.) Fatefully,

8 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 PAEA was passed by a lame-duck ses- The bottom line: The Postal Service overcharged to the tune of $50 billion sion of Congress in December of 2006. faces a manufactured financial crisis to $75 billion. Though nobody saw it coming at as a result of the 2006 congressional Even though the pension surplus fix the time, a perfect storm was brew- mandate to pre-fund future retiree appeared in many pieces of legislation ing in the global economy that would health benefits—as would any com- and was supported by a bipartisan have devastating effects on the Postal pany or agency forced to make such majority of lawmakers, certain con- Service. Just a few months after the payments decades pre-funding mandate was enacted, the in advance. “I know that NALC members will con- U.S. economy would enter the worst Solutions to recession since the Great Depression. tinue to make all of our voices heard Unemployment soared to more than the pre-funding with lawmakers to finally address this crisis 10 percent. Millions of Americans lost long-standing problem.” their homes. Mail volume plummeted Over the years, as the downturn hit the most mail-in- NALC and other gressional leaders refused to allow the tensive parts of the economy—advertis- stakeholders have sought legislative plan to move forward in committee or ing, publishing, real estate and finan- solutions to the pre-funding crisis. to act on the pension overpayments, as From the beginning, NALC proposed cial services. Meanwhile, the crushing they would have cost Treasury tens of repealing the pre-funding burden cost of the pre-funding mandate took billions of dollars in the budget. as the easiest solution to ending the effect, driving up the Postal Service’s A third idea, using Medicare to re- Postal Service’s financial crisis. How- financial losses. duce the liability for retiree health, has ever, following House passage of the In the immediate crisis, most people slowly gained traction. For NALC, it USPS Fairness Act in February 2020, blamed the recession for the Postal made the most sense in the context of COVID-19 became the center of legisla- Service’s financial woes—and Congress a bill that would protect service quality tive focus, which prevented any action reduced the pre-funding payment in and city carrier jobs. 2009 from $5.4 billion to $1.4 billion on the bill in the Senate. Another solution to pay for much of “We’ve been working on the pre- and then deferred the 2011 payment the liability was to get the Treasury De- funding problem for 15 years now,” until 2012. But once the U.S. economy partment to refund the Postal Service’s President Rolando said. “Repealing the began to slowly recover, observers overcharged CSRS pension account. pre-funding mandate and prospective started to blame the internet for the re- These overpayments date from when Medicare integration have proven to be peated losses, overlooking the impact the Post Office Department became the the most viable solution for the various of the pre-funding mandate. Indeed, U.S. Postal Service. stakeholders interested in finding a many failed to see that the Postal Ser- Treasury is responsible for pension real solution that allows the Postal vice had bounced back dramatically benefits for the years any carriers Service to innovate and grow in the after 2012, thanks to an e-commerce worked for the Post Office Depart- years ahead. Taking full advantage of boom made possible by that very same ment, which existed until 1970, with the Medicare taxes we have paid over internet, and to rising productivity the Postal Service picking up the tab the years to reduce the cost of health made possible by the Postal Service’s for their years working after the Postal insurance for active and retired postal craft employees. Reorganization Act of 1970 created employees alike will save the Postal That allowed some, including those USPS. Unfortunately, OPM, which Service tens of billions of dollars over seeking privatization or intent on administers the CSRS, miscalculated time, and repealing the pre-funding attacking a significant share of the fed- the cost of pre-1970 pension benefits, mandate will eliminate the main driver eral work force, to promote a false nar- not accounting for increases to letter of the agency’s annual losses. I know rative—that USPS’s financial problems carriers’ pre-1971 pensions due to that NALC members will continue indicated that it was a relic overtaken pay increases after postal reorganiza- to make all of our voices heard with by electronic communications. In fact, tion. Two independent studies found lawmakers to finally address this long- flawed public policy was at issue here. the CSRS postal account had been standing problem.” PR

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 9 States seek to restrict and expand vote-by-mail

Carriers in the time of COVID-19

e all know that working in a pandemic is not normal. Restaurant cook finds For new We’ve cased and carried the mail as essential employees a new start two blocks away Wwhile taking precautions such Like millions of restaurant workers, as wearing masks, washing our hands Richard Allen had no warning that letter carriers, frequently and disinfecting surfaces. a deadly virus would force him out of We’ve avoided contact with postal his job in March 2020. One day, he was customers and worked hard to keep doing fine as a cook at a restaurant in they’ve only up with a surge in package and elec- Detroit; the next day, he was on unem- tion mail volume. All the while, we’ve ployment. worried about contracting a dangerous Allen stayed home and cared for his virus and sometimes cared for children newborn daughter for a while, but the known the job schooled at home. Detroit Branch 1 member needed to go Unlike veteran letter carriers, back to work, and he knew the Post though, those who started after Office was a good place to look. during the COVID-19 arrived have never experi- “I [had] worked at the Post Office be- enced the job without those factors. fore, as a mail handler,” he said, refer- For them, learning how to navigate the ring to a stint as a seasonal employee pandemic is another part of learning from November 2019 to January 2020. pandemic how to carry the mail, on top of all the His unexpected loss of the restaurant other skills they are mastering. For job turned into a new opportunity. “I some, the Postal Service offered a new was interested in seeing what being a start after the pandemic took away jobs carrier was like.” or businesses. Allen found an opening at Detroit’s The Postal Record talked to some College Park Post Office two blocks new carriers whose postal journey from the restaurant. He started train- began during the pandemic and about ing in November and just missed the how their jobs are going so far. main part of the Christmas rush—his

10 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 first day on the street started carrying the mail in Out on the street, “I’m avoiding was Dec. 26. early March of 2020, just as people to the best of my ability,” Working in close quar- COVID-19 infections were Kellum said. The biggest challenge is ters with other people at reaching pandemic levels. going inside apartment buildings and the post office during the Kellum had to learn the job businesses. “For the most part, I’m pandemic made the car- and learn to stay safe from able to socially distance effectively.” rier anxious, but not for COVID-19 at a time when The danger of infection “always long. “I was a little bit supervisors and trainers lingers in the back of my head,” he nervous at first,” he said, Richard Allen were themselves still learn- added, “but despite but he soon realized that ing about the virus. the danger, I’m still most of the day keeps “It’s a lot to take in,” he willing to put forth him socially distant. “What we do as said, “but I never felt I was underpre- the effort and keep carriers is one of the most isolated pared or in the dark.” smiling.” jobs, when we’re out on the street. At Despite the risk of working as an es- His role as an the beginning of the day, everyone sential employee while learning a new essential employee keeps their masks on.” job, Kellum said, his supervisors and serving the commu- Allen has yet to experience the kind fellow carriers have helped him make nity’s needs during of personal interaction with his cus- the best of the situation. the pandemic has Dennis Kellum tomers that most letter carriers have, “For the most part, it’s been a given Kellum a boost. and that some consider the best part of smooth enough ride,” he said. “The “That’s what keeps me going—know- the job. thing I most appreciate is that, despite ing that I’m doing something that “I try to keep my distance as much all the complications, [managers] helps the whole community,” he said. as possible,” he said. “It’s probably understand it’s going to be a very dif- not as personal as it is outside the ferent time.” pandemic.” Several carriers in the Fishers Post CCAs balance jobs, families As a city carrier assistant (CCA) dur- Office have taken leave after contract- ing a busy era for the Postal Service, ing COVID-19. As a CCA, Kellum is and COVID concerns Allen is working about 12 hours a day, working 10 hours a day, six days a Jamal Mosley picked up a satchel six days a week. Nevertheless, now week, but making up for absences of in February 2020 after quitting his that Allen knows what carrying the carriers on leave with COVID-19 infec- job as a car salesman. The New City, mail is like compared to working as a mail handler, he’s happy and wants to tions has added to the pressure. NY Branch 5229 member wanted the stick with it as a career. “I prefer being “It’s felt like peak season, but we’re steady pay and benefits that the Postal a carrier,” he said. “I get to get some making it happen somehow,” he said. Service provides to support his new- fresh air and walk around.” “I’m just hoping that’s a hurdle we’re born baby. going to clear soon.” He quickly learned that working as For Kellum, anxiety about the pos- a CCA involves long hours away from Pandemic surprises former sibility of infection was part of the job his family, but the pay is good. “When from the beginning, but the safeguards you get your paycheck,” he said, “it’s hotel worker seeking respect that managers set up in his station worth it.” Looking for a position where super- eased that feeling. Mosley said his post office has taken visors respected him more, Dennis “They have been very much on top the pandemic seriously and has tried Kellum left his job on the janitorial of strict COVID-19 restrictions,” he to protect employees, including mak- staff at an Embassy Suites hotel near said. “I understand there are still going ing masks and gloves available and Indianapolis to become a letter car- to be inherent risks, but I feel comfort putting hand sanitizer at every case. rier in the nearby town of Fishers, IN. and solace that they are doing all they He credits NALC with staying on top The Carmel, IN Branch 888 member can.” of the issue of protection from infec-

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 11 Carriers in the time of COVID-19

tion and providing information: “The said. “I get a good feeling. the same routes consis- union has definitely been helpful. But it’s discouraging at tently, I was able to catch They’ve been keeping us informed.” times seeing other people on how to assess the DPS Nevertheless, working as a front-line working at home and hav- and flats and know where employee with the constant threat of ing to leave my family.” to go.” infection took its toll, even at home. His two children have On the other hand, the “I sometimes didn’t want to be spent most of the pan- COVID-19 precautions around my baby” after getting home demic at home, participat- at her station made her ing in school remotely. His comfortable with the from the post office for fear of infecting Kelsey Harrison her, he said. “I didn’t want to put her wife can work from home risks. “They were making in harm’s way.” some days, so between the sure we had gloves and Because preventing infection is two of them, they manage to care for face masks—we always wear our face now baked into the job every day, their children during the school week. masks,” she said. Her fellow carriers from wearing a mask to avoiding close Johnson also notices the effects of and other staff have kept up with wip- contact with customers, Mosley is used social distancing on the job when cus- ing down vehicles and indoor surfaces to it. “I don’t know how to do my job,” tomers don’t want him to get too close. as well. “You can see the cleaning he said, “without trying to protect But he has taken to the job and says taking place.” myself.” he will stick with it. “Once you get to Hamilton soon noticed that many One of Mosley’s know what you’re doing, it’s habitual— customers were wary of close contact. “Last year, a lot of people would avoid co-workers in you go on autopilot,” he said. coming to the mailbox.” But a few New City, Rashad would come closer, even approaching Johnson, also has Carrier loves her job her truck, and that gave her a chance family at home to to greet them—with caution. “I would think about. Johnson despite a crazy year just put the mask on and still be is helping to support “I was just looking for something sociable, while respecting our social- his family—a wife different,” Lexington, KY Branch 361 distance guidelines.” Jamal Mosley and two children in CCA Kelsey Harrison said about The unusual circumstances of her school—by working switching from retail management to first year on the job—the pandemic, as a carrier. carrying the mail. and the surge in packages and election In fact, the Post Office has proven She found it. mail that it caused—didn’t put her off. to be a lifeline for Johnson. The non- Hamilton started her new job in mid- She’s looking forward to converting to emergency medical transportation April 2020 when businesses were shut- a career carrier. company he had helped build was ting down and people were sheltering “I love this job,” she said. “I love just beginning to succeed when the in their homes due to COVID-19. Work- providing service to customers. I pandemic wiped out business, because ing as an essential employee didn’t love being outside all day. I love it at most of the customers he used to drive bother Hamilton, though. Instead, it the end of the day when my truck is from place to place stayed home for boosted her sense of purpose. empty—that’s a good feeling.” safety reasons. “I knew that I needed to be out there As COVID-19 slowly loses its grip, Suddenly jobless, Johnson scram- providing service to customers,” she Hamilton is looking forward to even bled for new work. “I knew unemploy- said. better times. “The regulars told me ment wasn’t going to last forever,” Learning the job in the middle of that last year was not a typical year,” he said. With the help of a neighbor a pandemic came with extra com- she said. “I dealt with all kinds of who worked for the Postal Service, he plexities. “When I started, with all the things—the pandemic, the election— applied to be a carrier and started as a COVID-19 restrictions, I didn’t receive and now I’m starting to see how things CCA in May 2020. any on-the-job training or shadow are getting back to normal. It’s totally “I actually like delivering mail,” he days,” Hamilton said. “But after doing different from last year already.” PR

12 The Postal Record June 2021 21/05 Leader4/23/2111:17AMPage17 carrier was interrupted when he was was he when interrupted was carrier letter a as stint His 1969. to 1964 from Chicago in member 11 Branch NALC and carrier letter a was Prine career, music successful his launching to on April 7,2020,from COVID-19. Prior folk singer andsongwriter who died by John Prine, anAmericancountry The company was launched in1981 Recordstion from OhBoy inNashville. times ofneed. 235 postalworkers andtheirfamiliesin donation willallowPERFto helpabout were available lastJune. Thisgenerous Week Tonight” stampsthat branded Stamps.com to launch a lineof“Last mote thePostal andsupport Service. Week Tonight with John Oliver,” to pro- launched lastyear onhisshow, “Last night comedian andhostJohn Oliver of itsspecialpromotion thatlate- S PERF alsoreceived a$70,000 dona- Oliver’s showstaff worked with ees’ Relief Fund (PERF)aspart $475,000 to thePostal Employ- tamps.com hasdonated for “IRemember Everything.” AmericanSong andPerformanceBest he won aGrammy posthumously for Lifetime Achievement. Andthisyear, 2019. In2020,hewon aGrammy for into theSongwriters HallofFame in dignity forthemselves.” our democracy, andbuilding alifeof the USPS, serving acrucialfunction in cans who have foundasteady job with one ofcountless hard-working Ameri- asasongwriter.his craft He was just him thefreedom andsecurityto hone that working asapostalcarriergave his music:“He often discussedthe way characters andemotionsthatdefined Prine to reflect ontheextraordinary route provided thetimeandspace for route. mail his and Chicago to returning before Germany West in engineer cal mechani- a as years two for served He 1966. in Army the into drafted Prine never forgot thePostal Service, The singer/songwriter was inducted According to Rolling Stone,hismail 22404-1220. VA P.O.Fredericksburg, 41220, Box PERF, to check your send to is donate worthy effort. ofthis PERF andaskfortheirsupport community to educate themabout sider working withbusinessesinyour with adonationto PERF. Also, con- uninhabitable disasters, bynatural homes have beendestroyed orleft employees—active andretired—whose donation of$76,000. ofthereliefport fundwithagenerous LouisGeneral DeJoy showed hissup- recent contribution aswell. Postmaster them forthedonation. ed themwithaplaqueandthanked Zoom meeting onwhich PERFpresent- Whelan, Prine’s son,joined aMarch 12 Tilson andDirector ofOperationsJody Records Director ofMarketing Eileen beneficiary ofhis OhBoy good fortune. and hemadesure thatPERFwas a Photo by Brad Bowie/ tornado hit Palmetto, LA, on April 10, 2021. Linemen work to restore power after a The easiest and fastest way to way fastest and easiest The You canhelpyour fellowpostal PERF was therecipient ofanother June 2021

PR The Acadiana Advocate

The PostalRecord

13

Brad Bowie/The Acadiana Advocate News

Emergency Federal Employee Leave update he Office of Personnel Man- Notification and Leave Request Form, agement (OPM) and the Postal along with documentation supporting T Service have issued guidance the need for the leave. Employees also implementing the American Rescue will need to submit a signed Em- Plan Act of 2021, which was signed ployee Agreement in Connection with into law on March 11. (The full guid- Emergency Federal Employee Leave ance is on the NALC website.) This (EFEL), provided under Section 4001 of law established an important new the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, leave category called Emergency Fed- before the first use of EFEL. eral Employees Leave (EFEL). Prior The Postal Service has issued to OPM’s issuing of the guidance, the guidance, and a document about Postal Service had been approving frequently asked questions, on EFEL. EFEL on an interim basis in two-week To view these documents and the increments. forms referenced above, go to nalc. When requesting this leave, employ- org/news/nalc-updates/emergency- ees must submit a completed PS Form federal-employee-leave-update. 3971, Request for or Notification of Ab- NALC will continue to provide sence, and a COVID-19 Emergency Fed- updates regarding this leave as they A Q-and-A about the leave eral Employee Leave (EFEL) Employee become available. PR is available on nalc.org. Online officers’ training helping branches during pandemic ince February, NALC has held branch officers in the performance “This class was so informative,” four sessions of its Branch Officers’ of their fiduciary and administrative she said. She learned so much that STraining and one special session responsibilities. To allow for maximum she went back to her records from of a Preparing the LM-2 class virtually branch participation, registration has 2020 and redid them so they would be for 579 branch officers. been limited to two officers per branch correct for the branch going forward. Before the pandemic, the training per session and sign-up can be done “I had to redo everything, but I made would be held over several days at a ho- only by branch presidents through the it easier for the next person coming tel in a location somewhere around the Members Only portal. in as far as labeling, what needed to country. But with the pandemic making Veronica Gainey of Sacramento, CA be itemized, what needed to be on the in-person sessions difficult, NALC has Branch 133 had wanted to take the train- LM-2. If you’re doing anything involv- held the training using Webex meeting ing last year when she became secretary- ing taxes, you want to be sure it’s software. Moving the sessions online treasurer of the branch, but she didn’t being done properly.” has allowed attendees to go through the have the chance because of the COVID-19 Gainey appreciated the convenience training on their computer or mobile pandemic. This year, although she was of doing the training virtually, as op- device from their home or branch hall. already preparing to retire, she attended posed to traveling. “All you have got to Because of limitations, the training the training with her branch president, do is plug it in and turn on a comput- has been modified from the three and which helped put the branch in a better er,” she said. a half day in-person version to select position for the next person who serves Ken Mayfield, president of Okla- subjects that are timely in assisting as secretary-treasurer. homa City Branch 458, also attended

14 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 one of the online sessions. Though he had previously attended the training Deaf or hard of hearing? in person about five years earlier in St. Louis, he wanted to go through it To ensure that our deaf or hard-of-hearing members are receiving appropriate accommodations to communicate with other Postal Service employees, including again. He liked the convenience, too. their union representatives, NALC is planning to reach out to these individuals to “The advantage to me was the cost,” discuss and learn more about any challenges they face. We are in the process of he said. “I liked being able to do a planning a virtual conference for this purpose. We are asking letter carriers who refresher online without a cost to the are deaf or hard of hearing to contact the union by going to the NALC website at branch.” nalc.org, clicking on the Members Only portal in the upper right-hand corner, and The new financial secretary for logging in. From there you can simply check the appropriate box if you would like Branch 458 took the course with to be identified as deaf or hard of hearing. Doing so will let NALC know who you Mayfield; it was his first time with the are, where you work and which branch you are a member of. subject. While the financial secretary had a good experience, Mayfield highly recommended the course for expe- The modified Branch Officers’ Train- rienced branch officers. “For me, for ing includes: a refresher, I thought the online was DOL Reporting—This session reviews perfect,” Mayfield said. the history of the Labor-Management Re- “I do like taking classes in person, but porting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) and the way they did it, I think they did an how it affects the activities of the unions excellent job in the way they presented and union officers. Participants learn everything,” Gainey said. “They gave us about each title of the LMRDA and the the opportunity to ask questions. They reporting requirements under the law. took the time to answer them. I thought Preparing LM-3—This session cov- it was put together very well.” ers completing the annual LM-3, which In addition to the regular Branch is required to be filed by branches Officers’ Training topics, NALC also with total annual receipts of at least offered a special “Preparing the LM- $10,000 but less than $250,000. An 2” session. While all branches that LM-4 is filed by branches with annual receive funds are required to file an financial receipts of less than $10,000. LM report to the Department of Labor Officers who file an LM-4 also would annually, many file an LM-3 or LM-4, benefit from this session. which are less involved reports for Preparing 990s—This session cov- branches with total annual receipts ers completing the required annual less than $250,000 and $10,000, re- Internal Revenue Service filing. spectively. But the LM-2 is a much more Membership & Dues/You’ve just detailed, lengthier report that only been elected…now what?—This ses- NALC’s larger branches file. sion guides branch officers through “The normal LM-3 training class membership issues that they deal with does not get into the extra details that daily and discusses how to read a dues this report requires,” NALC Secretary- roster; it also focuses on helping officers Treasurer Nicole Rhine said, “nor learn more about branch operations. would the vast majority of our branch- “I highly recommend [the class] for es, who file LM-3s or LM-4s, need the when people become new officers,” additional information that is required Gainey said, because it helps them “know on an LM-2.” what you need to do properly.” PR

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 15 News

States seek to restrict or expand voting by mail ince the 2020 elections, many moving forward in state legislatures states have seen bills introduced around the country. Sin their legislatures to either make voting by mail more restrictive or Restrictive bills make it more accessible. • In Iowa, SF 413 would give vot- The best-known legislation is ers less time to apply for absentee Georgia’s SB 202, signed into law by ballots, bar local officials from Gov. Brian Kemp (R) on March 25. The automatically sending out absentee law requires voters to provide a state ballot applications, limit election identification number or photocopy of officials’ discretion to provide bal- an identifying document with their ab- lot drop boxes, and restrict who can sentee ballot application, bars election assist absentee voters in returning officials from automatically sending out their ballots. ballot applications (making it easier to remove voters from the permanent early • In Arizona, four bills prohibit elec- voting list), gives voters less time to ap- tion officials from sending mail ply for an absentee ballot, and sharply ballots to voters without a request, restricts the availability and hours of requiring further identification ballot drop boxes. information on absentee ballots, But Georgia’s new law is far from and limiting the time that voters unusual. New York University’s Bren- have to supply a signature for their nan Center for Justice compiled a list of mail ballots if they had forgotten to about 360 bills with restrictive voting sign them. provisions in 47 states as of March 24, • In New Hampshire, three bills most of which include vote-by-mail would require more identification restrictions by such measures as elimi- information at various points in the nating the automatic mailing of ballots absentee voting process. to registered voters, eliminating or • In Texas, SB 7 seeks to limit mail restricting no-excuse absentee ballot- voting by enacting comprehensive ing, or reducing the number or hours restrictions, including prohibitions of access to drop boxes for returning on state or local election officials absentee ballots. sending unsolicited mail ballot ap- Restrictive voting laws weren’t the plications to voters and on the use only bills moving forward in state legis- of any unstaffed drop boxes. latures. As of March 24, about 840 bills with expansive provisions had been • In Florida, SB 90 targets the state’s introduced in 47 states. Fewer than half absentee voting process. The bill of those bills address vote-by-mail, by would ban ballot drop boxes, limit moving to make no-excuse absentee assistance with ballot delivery to balloting permanent, extend automati- immediate family members, and cally mailing out ballots, expanding shorten the length of time a person the time of access and location of ballot can stay on the absentee voter list. drop boxes and make absentee voting • In Michigan, eight bills with dif- easier for people with disabilities. ferent provisions would combine While far from a comprehensive list, to establish a photo ID require- the following are examples of bills ment for both in-person and mail

16 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 voting, make it harder to request a a witness, this would not render Indiana offered no-excuse absen- mail ballot by eliminating online the ballot void during “any elec- tee voting as a temporary mea- requests and by barring election of- tion held during a state of emer- sure in response to the COVID-19 ficials from automatically sending gency related to a communicable pandemic in the November 2020 out applications, and limit the use disease of public health threat.” election. of mail ballot drop boxes. The state also is forming a work • Bills in 11 states would require that group to consider and evaluate al- • In Wisconsin, SB 204 would pro- voters be notified of and given an hibit election clerks from sending ternatives to the witness signature opportunity to cure absentee ballot absentee ballot applications and requirement. defects, in some cases even after absentee ballots to voters who did • Among New York’s 12 proposed Election Day. not request them, and create a bills are provisions to expand felony offense for violation. eligibility for absentee voting and • Bills in seven states would create absentee ballot drop boxes. or expand access to permanent Expansive bills absentee voting lists (voters on the • In New Jersey, the combination of lists would automatically receive an • In Massachusetts, HB 73 extends five bills would allow for absentee absentee ballot for every election no-excuse early voting and absen- ballots with missing or illegible tee voting through June 30, 2021. It postmarks to be accepted up until without having to reapply). also requires election administra- 48 hours after Election Day and Voting rights is an issue that will tors to grant reasonable vote-by- also would provide absentee voters continue to make waves in state legis- mail accommodations for disabled with notice and an opportunity to latures. “NALC has long stood in favor voters who are unable to vote by cure ballot defects, such as forgot- of allowing citizens to vote by mail,” paper ballot. ten signatures. NALC President Fredric Rolando said. • In Montana, SB 15 makes absentee • Bills in six states—Connecticut, “It’s a safe and convenient way to al- voting easier for people with dis- Indiana, Massachusetts, New low voters to cast their ballots, placing abilities. Hampshire, New York and Rhode their trust in the Postal Service and • In Virginia, under SB 1097, if an Island—would extend or create their letter carrier to make sure their absentee ballot was not signed by no-excuse absentee voting. All but vote is delivered.” PR Task force created in new contract off to a great start n the recently ratified 2019-2023 that the parties continue their joint will, at a minimum, jointly explore, National Agreement, the parties objective of creating an improved work develop and test new work methods Iagreed to a Memorandum of Under- environment for all employees. and concepts related to: standing (MOU) Re: City Delivery and Serving on the task force are NALC • Establishment of a positive work Workplace Improvement Task Force President Fredric Rolando, Executive environment/culture where that was established for the purpose Vice President Brian Renfroe, Director everyone is treated with dignity of jointly seeking methods to improve of City Delivery Christopher Jackson, and respect the cultural and operational environ- Special Executive Assistant to the • Efficiency and use of space ment in city delivery offices. Within the President Tim McKay and Assistant MOU, NALC and USPS reconfirm their to the President for City Delivery • Staffing and scheduling commitment to modernizing delivery Michelle McQuality. • Route evaluation methods and processes to ensure that For the term of the 2019-2023 Nation- the Postal Service remains the pro- al Agreement, the City Delivery and • Safety vider of choice for our customers and Workplace Improvement Task Force • Contractual compliance

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 17 News

Task force (continued) • Mentorship/improving the on- For more information on this topic, see boarding experience and retention Director of City Delivery Christopher rate of city carrier assistants (CCAs) Jackson’s article on page 40. • Business growth Two additional joint subcommit- tees were established to address the Immediately upon ratification of the parties’ joint exploration of office National Agreement, the task force, efficiency and use of space. One of the consisting of members from NALC committees is focused on city carri- and USPS, went to work discussing ers’ office activities, while the other ideas related to these topics. Joint committee is reviewing office space these ideas. In April, after much dis- subcommittees working under the constraints and how to best accom- cussion and planning, this subcommit- direction of the task force have also modate increases in parcel volume and been established to meet and work tee submitted a draft of a pilot program changing mail mix. Both committees toward achieving our mutual goals. to the task force with some changes recently began meeting; they will meet So far, subcommittees working on to how CCAs are used, mainly in the weekly to discuss these issues. The route evaluation, office time/activities, beginning stages of their USPS careers, office activities and efficiency subcom- office space, complement/staffing and with the intent of improving the new mittee will focus on reviewing current improving CCA retention rates are up employee experience and increasing office activities and processes, route and running. evaluation line items, and whether retention rates. The route evaluation subcommit- potential changes need to be made On April 15, the parties agreed to tee meets on a weekly basis to jointly to these processes. The office use and conduct the pilot program with the discuss the current route evaluation space committee will review things signing of MOU RE: New Employee and adjustment process, as well as Experience and Retention Program. potential changes that may need to be like work floor setup and flow, case configuration and any other variables The pilot program involves various made, and the exploration of the use new and modified practices for all of technology to improve operations, that may restrict space on the work- room floor. The committee will use this CCAs and part-time flexible city letter route evaluation, adjust­ment and carriers in two selected offices. The optimization, delivery capabilities and information to potentially develop new pilot began on May 15 in the Warren, visibility. During these meetings, the ideas for a more efficient office space MI, post office and the West Milwau- subcommittee agreed to a joint process for the future. kee, WI, station, and will last ap- using the principles contained in the The complement/staffing subcom- proximately one year, unless the time 2014-2015 City Delivery Route Alter- mittee has been meeting weekly since frame is modified by the parties. For a nate Adjustment Process to facilitate ratification. Its focus has been on the detailed explanation of everything the evaluation and adjustment of routes hiring of CCAs, career conversions and in a limited number of delivery units. voluntary transfers in understaffed in- pilot program entails, see M-01949 in The subcommittee then selected two stallations identified by the main task NALC’s Materials Reference System in teams comprised of one NALC member force. It has identified and alleviated the “Resources” section of the NALC and one USPS member experienced several bottlenecks in the onboard- website or at nalc.org/mrs. in route adjustments to evaluate and ing process for CCAs, increased the The City Delivery and Workplace adjust routes in the chosen delivery frequency of carrier academies and au- Improvement Task Force meets regu- units. The two teams also are explor- thorized the processing of conversions larly to discuss the progress of the ing the applicability and use of certain to career and processing of voluntary subcommittees and explore ideas to technological advances in regard to a transfers. address each of the elements of the potential future alternate route adjust- The subcommittee formed to explore MOU. Additional subcommittees are in ment process. The subcommittee will improving CCA retention rates also the process of being formed to further continue to meet weekly to oversee this meets at least weekly, and generally explore how we can best achieve our process and the progress of the teams. several times per week, to work on mutual goals. PR

18 The Postal Record June 2021 Food drive update fter much consideration, NALC decided to cancel the Letter Car- Ariers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive for 2021 because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We look forward to having a traditional Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive the sec- ond Saturday in May 2022, just as we have done for nearly three decades. For now, though, our focus turns to NALC’s ongoing Stamp Out Hunger Donor Drive. Created in June 2020, this effort helps to fulfill the nutritional needs of the 1 in 8 Americans who face food insecurity in communities across the country—including millions of children, elderly and military veterans. The same pandemic that has forced cancellation of the traditional food drive for both 2020 and 2021 also has increased the problem of hunger be- cause of its economic impact, putting extra pressure on food banks. “We could not simply stand by and to purchase food and replenish their shelves. And when it’s safe to do so,” do nothing, because as letter carriers stocks so local families can put food he added, “we look forward to once in every neighborhood in the country on their tables. Food banks make good again holding the largest one-day food six and seven days a week, we see use of cash donations—each dollar can drive in the United States. In 2022, the need,” NALC President Fredric provide up to three meals. The money letter carriers will be there to hold our Rolando said. “Our goal is to do every- also gives food pantries the flexibility traditional Stamp Out Hunger Food thing we can to fill the shelves of food to buy what they need the most. Drive and pick up bag upon bag of pantries.” Under the donor drive, Assistant to groceries from the generous customers By visiting nalc.org/food, donors the President for Community Services on our routes.” can find a food bank in their area to Christina Vela Davidson noted, NALC NALC had considered trying to hold support with an online donation. The Headquarters matches every contribu- the door-to-door food drive this fall, site links directly to donation pages on tion from the branch’s treasury to a lo- but after consultation with the Postal each food bank’s website. The same cal food bank. She asked that branches Service, decided instead to aim for list also provides branches with a con- mail proof of such branch donations next May. venient means of informing donors in (copy of branch check and food bank The annual spring effort comes at their area about how to locate and do- receipt) to: Stamp Out Hunger Food a critical point on food pantry calen- nate online to their local food banks. Drive, c/o NALC, 100 Indiana Ave. NW, dars—holiday donations are largely As with the traditional Stamp Out Washington, DC 20001. depleted, while the free or reduced- Hunger Food Drive, donations stay “With the national online donor cost meals from school cafeterias in the communities of the donors. effort in place,” Rolando said, “and generally are not available to needy Any resident, whether in a big city or the tools for branches to use available children over the summer break. The suburb, small town or rural area, can at nalc.org/food, every branch can donor drive can help fill this summer’s donate funds for a local food pantry help its local food banks restock their needs. PR

June 2021 The Postal Record 19 News

Protect your skin from the sun’s rays etter carriers often spend hours Types of skin cancer are outside in the sun, even in cold in the sun while on our routes. We weather. There are three common types of deal with the various hazards of On exposed skin, use the right sun- L skin cancer, each affecting a different the job, such as heat, cold, snow and screen. A “broad spectrum” sunscreen type of cell in the skin. ice, and aggressive dogs, but we can’t blocks both kinds of ultraviolet light Squamous cell cancer (or “carci- rays (UVA and UVB) that cause the most forget another danger: skin cancer. noma,” another word for cancerous damage to the skin. Use a sun protec- Skin cancer is the abnormal growth growth) affects the outer layer of skin of genetically damaged skin cells. made up of “squamous” cells that even- tion factor (SPF) of at least 15. SPF mea- Most skin cancer is linked to sun tually die and are shed from the body. sures how much longer the skin is safe exposure. The more exposure over Basal cells make up the layer below and with sunscreen protection than without your lifetime, the greater the risk of can develop basal cell carcinoma. it—on a day when it would take half cancer. Frequent sunburn makes the Melanoma affects melanocytes, cells an hour for skin to burn, SPF 15 should skin damage worse, but even if you’ve that produce a skin pigment called give you nearly eight hours of safety. rarely experienced sunburn, the melanin, which is the body’s natural Be sure to use enough sunscreen for cellular damage and the skin cancer sunscreen. Sun exposure causes these adequate coverage of the skin. Derma- that can come with it build up with cells to produce additional melanin to tologists suggest using at least 1 ounce long-term sun exposure. Every person protect skin layers below, causing a tan. of sunscreen—about enough to fill a who has spent years in the sun—even Basal cell cancer accounts for shot glass—to cover exposed areas. if he or she has been careful to use about 80 percent of skin cancers in Sun conditions can change and sunscreen and limit exposure to avoid this country, and squamous cell cancer sweat can wash away sunscreen, so burning—should be aware of the risk about 20 percent. Melanoma is rare, bring a bottle of sunscreen with you of skin cancer. accounting for less than 1 percent of on your route to reapply if necessary. The link to sun exposure may be skin cancer incidents. However, mela- Also, be sure your sunscreen has not why skin cancer is the most common noma kills five times more people each expired. Check the expiration date, cancer in the United States, affecting year—more than 10,000 people die of and if there is no date, don’t use it if about 1 in 5 people by age 70. Because melanomas annually, versus about it is three years old or more. If you’ve the risk rises with more sun exposure, 2,000 for the other two types. stored the sunscreen in a hot place, skin cancer is a greater concern as we Skin cancer strikes men more often such as an LLV, it may lose its effective- age. While most skin cancers are easily than women, and fair-skinned people ness sooner. treated and not life-threatening, if they more often than those with dark skin. Use sunscreen year-round, even on aren’t detected early, some types of On the other hand, dark skin may cloudy days. As the weather turns cool- skin cancer can be deadly—according make it harder to notice skin cancer er, it may fool your skin into feeling to the Skin Cancer Foundation, some- and get early treatment, which may safe, but the sun’s ultraviolet radiation one dies of skin cancer in this country explain why Black Americans are less can still damage exposed skin. every 30 minutes. likely to survive when they contract Keep in mind that, as someone who “We think of sunshine as healthy, skin cancer. Sun exposure is not the receives large amounts of sun expo- but working in the sun day after day only factor—some skin cancers can sure on the job, a letter carrier needs to is a health hazard for a letter carrier,” appear on parts of the body rarely be careful about exposure at the beach NALC Director of Safety and Health exposed to the sun. or the park, too. Total exposure over a Manuel L. Peralta Jr. said. “Every car- lifetime is the main risk factor for skin rier, at any age, should take steps to Three steps to prevention cancer. protect themselves from the sun’s rays There are three steps to avoiding Spot cancer early and know the signs of skin cancer to skin cancer. catch it early—and older carriers may Step One is minimizing sun ex- Step Two is learning to spot the want to get screened for skin cancer by posure by wearing sunscreen and signs of skin cancer on your own skin, a dermatologist on a regular basis.” appropriate clothing whenever you or with the help of a loved one.

20 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Squamous cell cancer Basal cell cancer Melanoma

Even if you have always been careful • B = Border. Look for spots with • Rough or scaly red patches, which to protect yourself on sunny days, the uneven borders. might crust or bleed risk of skin cancer increases as you • C = Color. Look for spots with an • Raised growths or lumps, some- grow older. Most skin cancer can be unusual or uneven color. times with a lower area in the treated successfully if detected early center enough, so learn the signs of skin • D = Diameter. Look for spots that cancer. are larger than a quarter-inch—the • Open sores (which may have oozing Melanocytes, those pigment-produc- width of a pencil eraser. or crusted areas) that don’t heal, or that heal and then come back ing cells that can develop into mela- • E = Evolving. Look for any change noma, also often produce harmless, in a mole or other spot on the skin. • Wart-like growths non-cancerous growths we know as Any change in size, shape, color, moles. Pigment clustered in one area elevation or other trait, or any new See a dermatologist is a freckle. Neither of those is cancer- symptom such as bleeding, itching Step Three is visiting a dermatologist ous, but they can make discerning or crusting points to danger. for regular checkups and whenever cancerous skin growths more difficult, If you or someone in your family you see something that concerns you. and a mole can later develop into a If you or someone else notices melanoma, so it is important to check has had melanoma in the past, see a dermatologist, who is likely to recom- anything unusual on your skin, includ- your skin regularly and know what to ing any new spots or a change in the look for. mend regular visits to monitor your skin, even if you are relatively young. shape, color or size of a spot, visit your The Skin Cancer Foundation recom- doctor as soon as possible. mends that people practice monthly Basal cell carcinomas usually ap- pear on skin areas that get the most For more information, visit the head-to-toe self-examination of their Skin Cancer Foundation website at sun, such as the face or neck, but they skin. Skin cancers found and removed skincancer.org. can show up anywhere. Look for: early are almost always curable. If you are diagnosed with skin Most skin cancers are either found • Flat, firm, pale or yellow areas, cancer, you may qualify for workers’ by people checking their own skin or similar to a scar compensation. Skin cancer is not are noticed by a loved one. With good automatically covered; as with other lighting and a full-length mirror, check • Raised reddish patches that might be itchy injuries or illnesses, the worker must your whole body. Use a hand-held provide a doctor’s medical report mirror or ask for help to see hard-to- • Small, pink or red, translucent, linking the skin cancer to exposure in reach spots. Check your whole body, shiny, pearly bumps, which might the workplace. Workplace exposure not just sun-exposed areas, including have blue, brown or black areas does not have to be the sole cause, underarms, scalp, groin and the soles • Pink growths with raised edges and though—if the workplace exposure of your feet. a lower area in their center, which contributes “in any way” to the skin Keep a keen eye out for melanoma, might contain abnormal blood ves- cancer, the injury can be considered as it is the most dangerous and fastest- sels spreading out like the spokes compensable by the Office of Workers’ spreading skin cancer. It can become of a tire Compensation Programs (OWCP). The life-threatening in as little as six weeks Federal Employees’ Compensation Act • Open sores (which may have oozing and, if untreated, can spread to other includes a schedule award for skin or crusted areas) that don’t heal, or parts of the body. Melanomas are cancer. that heal and then come back usually flat with uneven borders and If you believe that you acquired skin may have multiple dark colors. Use the Squamous cell carcinomas also tend cancer due to your performance of ABCDE rule to look for melanoma: to grow on areas that get sun, such as duties, reach out to the OWCP repre- • A = Asymmetry. Look for spots the face, ear, neck, lips or hands. But sentative in your branch, or to your that are asymmetrical rather than they can also show up anywhere. Look national business agent’s office, to get round. for: the necessary guidance. PR

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 21 News

Opportunities to get involved start with you oining NALC allows you to be- to interact with NALC brothers and directly to a food bank in your com- come part of a group of hundreds of sisters and to contribute. munity. Visit nalc.org/food for more Jthousands of dedicated letter car- Letter carriers are generous and information. If your branch has a food riers, united to protect their jobs and dedicated to serving their communities drive coordinator, he or she would their rights, and to promote the safety beyond providing reliable, efficient and likely appreciate any assistance you’d and welfare of the members. These courteous mail delivery service. If you like to give; if your branch doesn’t have common goals create a strength and enjoy giving back to your community, one, you could take on that role and solidarity that allow NALC to achieve you might consider participating when give back to your community. great things for letter carriers. your branch engages in charitable In 2018, to provide support and However, for some members, all they activities such as raising funds for the relief to members affected by natural can see of the union is what the shop Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). disasters, including earthquakes, tor- steward does on the workroom floor. NALC embraced the MDA as its official nadoes, hurricanes and wildfires, the While enforcement of the contract charity in 1952, becoming the first na- union established the NALC Disaster is extremely important, it’s not the tional sponsor of the organization just Relief Foundation. The foundation was only way members can participate in two years after its founding. Members established to fill a need identified by achieving our common goals. can participate in a variety of events to many branches that were affeccted by NALC offers members a variety of raise money for MDA, such as bow- natural disasters the previous year, additional activities and opportuni- lathons, satchel drives or Muscle Walks. including several hurricanes and tor- ties to get involved that they might not NALC’s biggest charitable effort nadoes that ravaged the Gulf typically think about. Here are some of every year is the Letter Carriers’ Stamp Coast. Branches wanted to know the ways carriers can actively partici- Out Hunger Food Drive, held annu- where they could send desperately pate with their branch, in and outside ally on the second Saturday in May. needed supplies and money, but there of the workplace. The nationwide food drive typically wasn’t a central location. NALC set If you like to write or are interested collects more than 70 million pounds up this foundation to make it easy for in communications, branches often are of food nationwide to help stock local them to help others in need quickly looking for writers and editors to help pantries, shelters and church shelves, and efficiently. The foundation has with the branch newsletter, or even helping feed the tens of millions of the capacity to accept donations and to start one. If you’re technologically Americans who lack sufficient food, provide assistance. Additionally, basic savvy, many branches have started, or including millions of elderly, children supplies including uniforms, water want to start, a website, blog or social and military veterans. NALC partners and food will be available for those media group, allowing you to put your with various organizations to carry out who need them in the future. skills to good use. Some branches have the nation’s largest single-day food Another way carriers can serve their begun using virtual platforms, pod- drive. Since its beginning in 1993, the communities is by participating in casts or video presentations to provide food drive has collected more than 1.75 Carrier Alert. Carrier Alert is a coopera- information to members—maybe your billion pounds of food. tive community service program that technical skills extend to cameras, Unfortunately, in 2021—for the monitors the well-being of elderly or lighting or audio equipment. second consecutive year—the pan- disabled mail patrons. As one of the Many branches also promote fel- demic forced the cancellation of our few—and some days only—point of hu- lowship and solidarity among branch traditional food drive even as the need man contact for homebound patrons, members and their families by offering for assistance is more significant than letter carriers are particularly attuned a variety of social activities. If you ever, given the economic impact of the to signs that could indicate an accident like to socialize, you could volunteer pandemic. Members still can partici- or illness. When a participating carrier to help organize an activity such as pate in NALC’s efforts to fight hunger notes something unusual involving a a branch picnic, a trip to a baseball by supporting the 2021 Stamp Out patron registered with Carrier Alert, game or a holiday event. These group Hunger Donor Drive, which provides he or she reports it to a postal supervi- events offer members a fun, easy way members the opportunity to contribute sor or other designated individual,

22 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Opportunities to get involved start with you directly to a food bank in your com- who in turn contacts the sponsoring munity. Visit nalc.org/food for more local agency. The agency checks on information. If your branch has a food the person, and if something is wrong, drive coordinator, he or she would contacts relatives, police or emergency likely appreciate any assistance you’d services as appropriate. To find out if like to give; if your branch doesn’t have there is a Carrier Alert program in your one, you could take on that role and community, contact your local NALC give back to your community. branch office or post office. In 2018, to provide support and For more information on MDA, relief to members affected by natural the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, disasters, including earthquakes, tor- theNALC Disaster Relief Foundation or nadoes, hurricanes and wildfires, the Carrier Alert, visit nalc.org/community- military uniforms for letter carrier Getting involved in NALC usually union established the NALC Disaster service. uniforms, and they continue to serve starts in one simple way: by attending Relief Foundation. The foundation was If politics is your passion, there are their communities and this great na- your branch meetings. Monthly branch established to fill a need identified by opportunities to come face to face with tion. In 2015, NALC created the NALC meetings can provide you with infor- many branches that were affeccted by your congressional representatives Veterans Group to provide mem- mation about all of these activities and natural disasters the previous year, to tell them about the importance of bers—active full-time and part-time about the ways you can lend a hand. As including several hurricanes and tor- issues that affect letter carriers and letter carriers, as well as retired letter it has with many things, the pandemic nadoes that ravaged the Gulf the Postal Service. Many branches carriers—with relevant information, has forced us to alter the way we con- Coast. Branches wanted to know have letter carrier congressional resources and a sense of camara- duct business on the local, regional and where they could send desperately liaisons who communicate frequently derie. In addition, veterans have a national level. For some branches, this needed supplies and money, but there with their senators and representatives strong voice when they contact their wasn’t a central location. NALC set throughout the year. Meanwhile, NALC senators and representatives about means changing the time and location up this foundation to make it easy for state associations are crucial to our postal legislation. of meetings or conducting the meetings them to help others in need quickly legislative efforts. Participation with Some branches have set up dedi- virtually via an online platform. If you and efficiently. The foundation has your state association will provide you cated positions for the purpose of as- need details about your branch meet- the capacity to accept donations and with training and information on local sisting branch members with veteran- ings, seek out your shop steward or call provide assistance. Additionally, basic and statewide political efforts. Some- related issues. NALC members who a branch officer. supplies including uniforms, water times, branches will organize phone fill these positions often are veterans For more about opportunities to get and food will be available for those banking or text-messaging initiatives themselves, as well as members of the involved, please see the NALC Letter who need them in the future. that allow letter carriers to reach out to NALC Veterans Group—and use infor- Carrier Resource Guide on the website Another way carriers can serve their voters to educate them on legislative mation and resources from the group at nalc.org/resourceguide as well as communities is by participating in activity that could have an impact on to assist their fellow branch members. in the forthcoming July edition of The Carrier Alert. Carrier Alert is a coopera- the Postal Service or the community. If this type of work interests you, Postal Record. tive community service program that Also, there may be opportunities to inquire with your branch representa- NALC encourages you to get involved monitors the well-being of elderly or assist your branch as a Letter Carrier tives about how to get involved. If your with the union in whatever way you disabled mail patrons. As one of the Political Fund (LCPF) coordinator branch doesn’t currently have such a choose. “For tens of thousands of letter few—and some days only—point of hu- helping to educate other letter carriers dedicated position, you could discuss carriers, participating in the NALC is man contact for homebound patrons, about the LCPF and political activity the possibility of establishing one— letter carriers are particularly attuned on Capitol Hill involving the Postal and perhaps even serving in the role. simply a great way to help strengthen to signs that could indicate an accident Service. Learn more about NALC’s Engaging in community service, the one organization dedicated solely or illness. When a participating carrier legislative efforts by visiting nalc.org/ branch events and political activities, to protecting carriers’ interests in notes something unusual involving a government-affairs. along with assisting veterans, are just the workplace and in the halls of patron registered with Carrier Alert, Military veterans constitute about some of the ways you and your family Congress,” NALC President Fredric he or she reports it to a postal supervi- one-fifth of the membership of can get involved. All you need to do Rolando said. “Find out how you can sor or other designated individual, NALC. These veterans traded their is ask. get involved.” PR

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 23 A tale of two postmasters Albert S. Burleson general Will H. Hays or most of its existence un- meet with any representatives from defense, the carriers and clerks threw til 1921, NALC had struggled NALC, and even called for the dissolu- themselves on the mercy of the court. with management at the Post tion of all postal employee unions. In In turn, the court imposed fines rang- FOffice Department. In fact, fact, he refused to grant leave without ing from $5 to $500 on all but one of one of the first major actions of the pay to the officers of the postal unions, the employees—the 25th worker, a let- union after it was formed in 1889 was forcing NALC President Edward Gainor ter carrier by the name of W. H. Fisher, to sue the Post Office to get it to com- to resign from the Post Office to con- hanged himself in his cell the night ply with an eight-hour workday law tinue performing his union duties. before his trial. (see the March edition of The Postal At the time, the union was lobby- In response to Burleson and the Record). ing Congress to establish pensions for Fairmont action, NALC made a retire- By 1913, relations had not improved postal employees, something Burleson and were about to get worse. Albert fervently opposed. He believed that S. Burleson, appointed as postmas- when a worker’s job performance ter general that year by President declined due to old age, the worker Woodrow Wilson, remains one of the should be demoted or fired—no matter most anti-union postmasters general how many years that employee had in postal history. He immediately labored for the Department. declared a new war on postal employ- This cruelty was best demonstrated ees and their unions. His goal was to in 1915, when the Fairmont, WV, post- run the Department at a profit, and he master, complying with Burleson’s chose to do this at the expense of the strict instructions, fired an older letter postal workforce. carrier because he could no longer From the moment he took office, perform his job satisfactorily. Furi- Burleson opposed any pay increases ous at the postmaster, the remaining for letter carriers, despite a dramatic 25 employees—letter carriers and rise in the cost of living once World postal clerks alike—decided to protest War I began in 1914. By 1916, the U.S. by resigning from their jobs at the dollar was worth half of what it had same time. All 25 workers were then been in 1907—the year letter carri- immediately arrested and thrown in ers had last received a pay increase. jail for striking against the federal Incredibly, when Congress voted for a government. 10 percent pay increase for all federal The jailed workers were shocked employees in 1917—a year when the at the government’s reaction. They cost of living jumped 20.3 percent— were not striking—they had simply Burleson succeeded in excluding quit their jobs. But the government postal employees from the raise. persisted in prosecuting the case. Burleson refused to recognize or Without money to pay for their

24 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Opposite page: A cartoon about the need for pensions for letter carriers, which would allow them to retire Below: A cartoon that appeared in The Postal Record about the new relationship with PMG Hays

ment bill its main priority, lobbying and other postal Congress until May 22, 1920, when the employees are in Civil Service Retirement Act became a similar situa- law. For the first time, letter carriers tion.... The selec- received retirement benefits. The leg- tion of Mr. Hays of islation provided for retirement at age the word ’human- Will H. Hays 65 with annuities ranging from $180 to ize‘ in expressing $720 per year. Carriers also registered the Department’s impressive legislative gains on June 5, attitude toward when a bill giving carriers their first the men and sick leave benefits—10 days a year— women work- and a salary bill increasing wages to a ers in the postal scale ranging from $1,400 to $1,800, a establishment, year were enacted. was happy.... Not They’d get more good news one in years has such a year later. In 1921, the new president, sentiment been ex- Warren G. Harding, appointed a new pressed by a head postmaster general, Will H. Hays, to of this Department. succeed the much-hated Burleson. How strange and Four days after taking office, Hays yet how sweet! fices, including such issues as drinking electrified postal employees with this To improve the working conditions fountains, swingrooms, dust, sanita- proclamation: of postal employees, Hays sought to tion and lighting. Every effort shall be exercised to hu- develop a closer relationship with Hays remained in office only one manize the ... [Post Office Department]. representatives from the various postal year, but his commitment to improving employees’ organizations. To this end, Labor is not a commodity.... There are the working lives of letter carriers and he established a National Welfare 300,000 employees. They have the his belief that improvement in condi- brain[s] and they have the hand[s] to Council—later called the National tions and morale would improve deliv- do the job well; and they shall have the Service Relations Council. NALC’s ery service for the American people left heart to do it well. national president and secretary both a lasting legacy. Seven days later, on March 16, played an active role in the activities of When Hays resigned, NALC contin- Hays invited Gainor and the leaders the Council right from its inception in ued its tradition of honoring friends of other postal unions to meet for 1921. NALC Secretary Edward Cantwell by making Hays an honorary lifetime informal discussions. At the meeting, served as the executive of the Council he announced an open-door policy to from its inauguration until his death member of NALC. Pleased, yet un- the leaders of the unions and invited in 1924. comfortable with the term “honor- them to see him whenever they had On the national level, the National ary,” Hays asked to become a regular a problem. Letter carriers responded Service Relations Council discussed dues-paying member instead. The enthusiastically to Hays’ proclamation topics directly related to the welfare of NALC Constitution did not allow for and his positive attitude toward NALC, city delivery letter carriers such as uni- anyone who had not earned that right with the April 1921 issue of The Postal forms, the possibility of a Christmas by carrying the mail, but an exception Record describing the outpouring of holiday, working conditions within was made for Will Hays—a member of good feeling in an article titled “The local post offices, cafeterias, credit NALC until his death in 1954. Dawn of a New Day”: unions and free physical examinations For more about Postmasters General When one emerges from a dungeon for workers. Local Welfare Councils Burleson and Hays and the fight for into the sunlight, one is temporarily also were established to focus on pensions, read Carriers in a Common blinded and confused. Letter carriers conditions within individual post of- Cause, available at nalc.org. PR

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 25 Proud to Serve Proud to Serve is a semi-regular compilation of heroic stories about letter carriers in their communities. If you know about a hero in your branch, contact us as soon as possible at 202-662-2489 or at [email protected]. We’ll follow up with you to obtain news clippings, photos or other information. Honoring heroic carriers eroism, like the mail, comes in really tell that it’s a duplex” from the “It’s kind of a cool thing about being many packages—think of police outside, Stephenson explained, so he out in the public—you just try to react Hofficers or firefighters. But for told the firefighters how to find the in a good way,” Stephenson added. some citizens in need of assistance, their other door. “It’s all in a day’s work for us.” heroes come in the form of concerned After firefighters banged on the letter carriers. door, they found three young girls, all fast asleep—they had been having Carrier helps initiate Letter carriers are members of nearly a sleepover and were unaware of the fire evacuation every community in this nation and commotion outside. “They had really know when something is wrong. Spot- After parking and walking to the first bad headaches” from their exposure to building on his route on April 5, Lou- ting fires and injuries, they often are the the natural gas, Stephenson said, “so isville, KY Branch 14 member Ronnie first to respond. The following stories the girls went to the hospital and got recalled, “I could see smoke document their heroism. For them, deliv- oxygen.” Garrett ering for America is all in a day’s work. Stephenson stuck around the coming out of the gutters and pouring scene to translate and make sure that out from under the roof.” An ‘angel’ to the rescue everyone was safe. He later heard that The 21-year carrier and Marine everyone had fully recovered from veteran rushed toward the building, a One Saturday morning in the fall of their exposure to the gas. three-story apartment complex; several 2020, Galesburg, IL Branch 88 member Family members of two of the girls residents had already evacuated and Dave Stephenson had just pulled up to wrote to the post office to praise were calling 911. Garrett, however, a duplex on his route when he realized Stephenson for his quick thinking. wanted to make sure that all of his that something was seriously wrong. “We truly feel you were their angel customers were safe, so he entered the “I could smell gas as soon as I got who saved them from death,” the building and began knocking on doors. close to the house,” the eight-year letter said. “You are our whole fam- The carrier rushed through the com- carrier said. As he approached the ily’s hero.” But the carrier deflects plex, warning customers about the fire building, firefighters also appeared on the “hero” label. “When you’re in the and urging everyone to get outside. One the scene—they had been called after moment, you just react, and then you resident, Brian Mitchell, who had been one of the residents had backed into go on with your day,” he said. unaware of the fire before Garrett’s the gas meter with her car. alert, told local ABC affiliate “It had been dumping gas WHAS-TV that “the mailman for about two hours” by the rushes up to pound on my time emergency responders door—tells me to get the heck arrived, Stephenson said. out of the building.” The carrier soon realized By the time Garrett that the firefighters were reached the third floor, “I having difficulty communi- was being choked by the cating the need to evacu- smoke,” he said, but was ate to one of the families able to help everyone inside who lived in the duplex. Stephenson knew that the the building evacuate by the family primarily spoke in time firefighters arrived on French, so he volunteered to the scene. translate. No residents were injured “I speak conversational in the fire, although two cats French and Spanish,” he died and there was signifi- said, “so I explained to cant property damage. them, in French, ‘Come on— Mitchell praised Garrett we need to get out.’ ” and some of the other resi- As the family evacuated, dents for their assistance in the carrier realized that a the evacuation effort, calling car was parked in front of them “heroes.” But the car- the other side of the duplex, Louisville, KY Branch 14 member Ronnie Garrett was instru- rier shrugged off the praise. indicating that a resident mental in the evacuation of residents after an apartment “I just did what anyone might be home. “You can’t fire. Above, a firefighter tackles the blaze at the building. else would do,” he said.

26 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Eye on the elderly n February, Salem, OR collapsed and had been un- Looking for advice, La Due IBranch 347 member Laura able to stand or call for help. walked across the street to Reitz noticed that one of He was taken to the hospital, the man’s neighbor, a retired her customers had not been where he was treated and carrier himself. The neighbor picking up his mail. “You get reunited with relatives. The hadn’t seen the man either. to know your customers,” man’s brother later sent a The next day, they decided the 32-year carrier explained, letter to Reitz, telling her that to call 911 and ask for a and she knew that this was the customer would not have wellness check. “The police unusual. After days went been found alive without ended up busting down the by without the mail being her intervention. While he door,” La Due said, “and they collected, the carrier asked informed her that the man found him in there—uncon- his neighbors if they had had subsequently died, he scious, but alive.” The man, seen him recently, but was thanked her for ensuring who was hospitalized after unable to find anyone who that his brother did not die his rescue, did recover, but had. She was especially alone. Reitz, who keeps the Mark La Due has not returned to La Due’s concerned given that the man letter with her while on her route. One of the customer’s was elderly and lived alone. route, said that while she the man had changed his friends contacted the post Going around the house, “I had hoped the man would habits over the past year— office to thank La Due for his knocked on the doors and survive, “the most important while in years past he had actions. “Mark La Due saved windows, but I didn’t see part is that he didn’t pass picked up his mail every day, his life,” the friend wrote. anything,” Reitz said. Finally, alone.” recently “he was only getting “The family and I can’t prop- after the customer still had the mail every three or four erly express our gratitude for not been seen or heard from, n the fall of 2020, Roches- days,” La Due said. “But then being a watchful eye.” The his neighbors decided to call Iter, NY Branch 210 member it went [uncollected] over the carrier, however, was modest police for a welfare check, Mark La Due noticed that weekend,” which was more about his role, saying, “I based on Reitz’s tip. When there was a mail buildup unusual. The 23-year carrier don’t think I did anything that officers entered the house, in the mailbox of one of his knocked on the man’s door anyone else wouldn’t have they found that the man had elderly customers. However, but received no response. done.” PR

By the time paramedics arrived, the lost,” the four-year carrier recalled. Carrier’s medical training woman was still unconscious without a Norris immediately went over to the saves co-worker’s life heart rate. She was taken to the hospital child and picked her up, then wrapped “I got in my truck, ready to leave the and resuscitated; doctors later deter- one of her shirts around the girl. Look- [post] office” on Saturday, March 27, mined that she had had a heart attack. ing around, she couldn’t see anyone Lancaster, PA Branch 273 member Billy The carrier has since returned home, outside searching for the child, so she O’Connell recalled, when he looked up where she is still recovering. called 911. and saw a frightening scene. One of his Though O’Connell’s actions were After hanging up with the emergency co-workers was lying face down in the praised by his supervisor as being cru- operator, the carrier and the toddler parking lot, apparently having a medi- cial to his co-worker’s survival, the car- “just hung out,” Norris said. “We did cal emergency. rier was modest about his contribution. ABCs and colors while she ate my lunch The eight-year carrier jumped out of “I just responded, reacted and did what I and had a good time.” his truck and rushed over to her; their needed to do to save her life,” he said. Officers arrived about half an hour supervisor was already kneeling next to later, and Norris and the child “hung out her and trying to revive her. O’Connell, Watching over child lost in a cop car” while police searched for who was a CPR instructor in his previ- the girl’s parents. When the parents were ous job, quickly took over. on neighborhood street eventually located, they were unaware “She wasn’t breathing, and she didn’t On April 13, Buffalo-Western New York that the child had even left the house. have a heartbeat,” he said, so he im- Branch 3 member Mariah Norris was Norris said that despite the stress mediately started doing chest compres- on her route when she noticed an un- of the situation—“I could never be a sions. Despite his time as a teacher, “this usual sight—a toddler, wandering alone cop”—she was delighted to have been was the first time I had to use [CPR]” in outside. “I was getting all my mail ready able to help the young girl get back an emergency, O’Connell said. He also when I saw her, in her diaper, running home. “I was just glad I could help,” directed the supervisor to call 911. up and down the street looking very she added.

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 27 Help on the way Geana Baum n June of 2020, Fort Worth, The customer was holding who previously worked as under a nearby garage over- ITX Branch 226 member her phone, trying to call a police officer, said that hang. “She was sitting on Tiffany Lewis was making 911, but couldn’t complete while this was the first time concrete steps with shorts deliveries when she noticed the action given her condi- she responded to a medical on, a T-shirt and one sock,” that one of her regular cus- tion. Lewis grabbed the emergency as a letter carrier, the carrier said. “And it was tomers wasn’t in her usual phone and connected her she was glad that she could 20 degrees.” The customer spot. “She’s normally sitting with an emergency opera- apply some of her former didn’t know how long she outside,” the six-year carrier tor. The carrier then stayed training in her current job. “I had been trapped outside; explained, so she glanced with the woman while she love helping people and the around. At that moment, explained her symptoms, community,” she added. “It due to a recent surgery, she the woman came out of her which seemed to indicate a comes naturally to me.” was unable to stand on her house. “She stumbled down heart attack. While waiting own. Baum tried to pull her to the ground and grabbed with the customer for the n Feb. 10, Concord, up, but she was unable to her chest,” Lewis recalled. paramedics, Lewis realized ONH Branch 72 member raise the woman by herself. that they would probably Geana Baum was making de- Instead, she called 911, and have difficulty finding the liveries when “I heard some- stayed with the customer location, since the home is one yelling,” she recalled. until paramedics arrived. tucked away down a side “But I thought it was some- Baum says that she has street. She rushed out to one yelling for their dog.” spoken to the woman since The four-year carrier had the street and was able to the incident, and that the flag down the ambulance started to move on when she customer moved her mailbox as it drove by. The woman heard an even louder yell. was taken to the hospital, This time, she could hear to make it easier to collect but has since recovered and what the person was scream- the mail. “I’m just glad I returned home. “I was so ing: “She was yelling, ‘Help! was there for her, and glad I happy to see her,” the carrier Help me!’ ” Baum said. After heard her,” Baum said. “But it’s something anyone would Tiffany Lewis said, “and she said, ‘I was so looking around, Baum finally glad you were there!’ ” Lewis, located the woman, who was have done.” PR

Retired carrier rescued outside earlier that morning, despite injury, Kaehne got the injured man the icy conditions, to check on his to his feet and inside his house. Once by former co-worker furnace. While going down his porch inside, Kaehne told Woods’s wife about “It was first thing in the morning on steps, Woods had slipped and fallen, the incident, and wrapped a paper a very cold morning—probably 15 below landing headfirst on the sidewalk. towel around Woods’s head to staunch [freezing],” Baraboo, WI Branch 507 The retired carrier was unable to the bleeding. member Daniel Kaehne recalled about stand and was in distress, given his Given Woods’s injuries and exposure his route on Feb. 17. “I had pulled up head injury and the freezing tempera- to the cold, Kaehne called 911 and wait- to start a park-and-loop when I heard ture. He tried to call for his wife, but ed with the Woodses until paramedics someone hollering.” she was unable to hear him, and the arrived. “I called him that night, and he Assuming that the person was trying shock had caused Woods to forget was already home,” Kaehne said. “He to call a dog, the 33-year carrier ignored about the emergency call button was fine—just black and blue.” the noise and went around to open the around his neck. Woods, who later wrote a letter to the LLV. Then, he heard the noise again. Fortunately, his former colleague post office praising Kaehne for “surely This time, “I thought, ‘Something’s came to the rescue—Kaehne managed [coming] to my rescue,” has since made wrong,’ ” Kaehne said. to locate Woods after peering around a full recovery. There was nobody outside walking, a snowbank, and immediately rushed Kaehne shrugged off the praise, say- but the carrier kept looking across the over to help. Woods was in bad shape: ing that he had handled the situation street. Finally, Kaehne heard the noise “There was blood all over the snow,” as part of his job. “[Woods] is the fourth a third time. “I heard Woody, plain as Kaehne said. “And when I rolled him person I’ve rendered aid to,” he said. day, yelling ‘Help!’ ” over, there was blood on his face.” “You just get a sense when you know Retired Branch 507 member Gene Moving Woods carefully, so as not your territory. I’m glad I happened to Woods, known as “Woody,” had gone to aggravate a potential spine or head be there at the right time.” PR

28 The Postal Record June 2021 News

NALC HBP postpones health seminar he NALC Health Benefit Plan and information to assist their branch has issued the following state- members. T ment concerning the postpone- “Even though we are still in the plan- ment of its annual fall health seminar: ning stages, we are excited at the pros- “After much consideration, the NALC pect of being back among our members, Health Benefit Plan, with approval from and about having the opportunity to NALC President Fredric Rolando, has make improvements and present a new decided to reschedule the upcoming and improved Health Benefits Seminar. October Health Benefit Plan seminar. The previous duration, travel days and “We are working with the hotel to overall event experience could change. find alternate dates in the spring of We will continue to keep you posted as 2022, and they have not yet been final- everything unfolds. ized. The Plan is using this opportu- “Although the seminar will not be nity to consider innovative revisions held during the month of October, to the schedule of events and overall as originally planned, it remains our program. Although our primary goal priority to make the 2022 Open Season is to keep our members safe and a success. Over the coming months, healthy, we also want to ensure that the Plan will be assessing the most our health benefit representatives and effective way to promote new benefits other branch leaders have the best and how we can provide support and experience possible at the seminar and materials to branches before the of- come away with the necessary tools ficial Open Season dates.” PR Executive Council continues work remotely he Executive Council is the about the latest developments from the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a governing body of NALC be- the field and tackle significant issues discussion about implementation of T tween national conventions and of national importance. Often, staff certain provisions of the recently rati- is responsible for determining the members in attendance will report on fied National Agreement specific to direction of the union. In accordance departmental activities. By meeting as city carrier assistant conversions and with Article 9, Section 11 of the NALC a group, Executive Council members compensation, local memorandum of Constitution, the Council consists of the gain the perspective needed to make understanding negotiations, ongo- president, executive vice president, vice important decisions on behalf of the ing national training, state associa- president, secretary-treasurer, assis- membership. tion and branch elections, and work tant secretary-treasurer, director of city The following is a summary of the being done by the City Delivery and delivery, director of safety and health, Council meeting held by video confer- Workplace Task Force. Other topics director of life insurance, director of the ence on April 15: discussed included an update to leg- Health Benefit Plan, director of retired President Fredric Rolando dis- islative initiatives affecting letter car- members, the board of trustees and the cussed the Council’s decision to can- riers, the status of the Postal Service national business agents. cel the 2020 biennial convention—in Board of Governors, the recent failed Meetings of the Council provide an particular, how reports from that con- effort by labor to organize Amazon important opportunity for national vention would be distributed to the workers at a Bessemer, AL, facility, officers and key staff members to delegates, as well as the viability of and a COVID-19 update that included focus on the important issues facing holding a 2021 rap session and health impact and safety/mitigation efforts letter carriers. NALC leaders learn benefit representatives seminar given and assessments. PR

June 2021 The Postal Record 29 Veterans Group For more information, go to nalc.org/veterans

Letter carriers’ USERRA rights Letter carriers’ USERRA rights (continued) he Uniformed Services Employ- other category of persons designated ment and Reemployment Rights by the president of the United States TAct of 1994 (USERRA) protects as uniformed service in time of war or the job rights of individuals who, ei- emergency. ther voluntarily or involuntarily, leave The types of uniformed service pro- employment positions to undertake tected under USERRA include active military service or certain types of ser- duty, active duty for training (including vice in the National Disaster Medical initial training), inactive duty training, System. USERRA prohibits employers full-time National Guard duty, or time from discriminating against past and needed to attend an examination to present members of the uniformed determine fitness for any of the above services. types of duty. These are protected Letter carriers generally have ques- whether the employee performs them tions about USERRA rights concerning voluntarily or involuntarily. military reservists and National Guard Typically, under USERRA, the cumu- members who are called to active duty. lative length of absence from employ- However, USERRA regulations also ad- ment because of military service is dress the rights of letter carriers who limited to five years; however, there to bid for route assignments. Part-time choose to enlist in the military. are some exceptions. A complete list flexible (PTF) letter carriers in a LWOP This article offers NALC members of these exceptions is found in Sec- status while on active military duty who are also military members and/ tion 771.21 of Handbook EL-312. This will be promoted to full-time based on or veterans a basic understanding of list is also available in the NALC Vet- their seniority as opportunities arise. the rights and benefits guaranteed erans Guide. City carrier assistants (CCAs) will not under USERRA. The majority of the have their conversion to career status Postal Service regulations implement- Rights while on military duty delayed based on the absence for ac- ing USERRA are found in Section 77 of Employees called to active duty in the tive military duty. Handbook EL-312, Employment and reserves or National Guard are placed in All letter carriers may file grievanc- Placement, which is available on the a leave without pay (LWOP) status until es or have grievances filed and pro- NALC website at nalc.org/workplace- their return. Employees enlisting in the cessed on their behalf. Service mem- issues/resources/usps-handbooks- military may be placed in an LWOP sta- bers are entitled to the same rights and-manuals. For a more detailed tus for up to five years, or they may ex- and benefits available to employees explanation of the rules contained in ercise a written option to resign with the on a non-military leave of absence. Handbook EL-312 and USERRA, mem- intention of not returning to the Postal Furthermore, they are entitled to any bers should review the NALC Veterans Service. The Postal Service must advise non-seniority rights and benefits that Guide available on the NALC website employees who choose to resign of their became effective during their service at nalc.org/veterans. right to be restored to employment once time. These rights include, but are USERRA extends reemployment the period of active duty ends. These not limited to: the Federal Employees rights to employees who are absent restoration rights are not affected by the Health Benefits Program, Federal Em- from work to serve on active duty in resignation. ployees’ Group Life Insurance, flexible the uniformed services for up to a total Many of the National Agreement pro- spending accounts, retirement (the of five years (subject to certain excep- visions afforded to city carriers remain Civil Service Retirement System or the tions). For purposes of applying these in force while the employees are on Federal Employees Retirement Sys- rights, “uniformed services” consist LWOP for military service. Career letter tem) and the Thrift Savings Plan. of the following military branches: carriers serving on active duty in the Employees who elect to resign from Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, military remain a part of the bargaining the Postal Service, rather than elect- Coast Guard, their respective reserve unit and will continue to accrue seniori- ing to be in an LWOP status during components and the Army and Air ty in accordance with Article 41, Section their military service, are no longer National Guard; Commissioned Corps 1.B.1 of the National Agreement. members of the bargaining unit. The of the Public Health Service; and any Full-time letter carriers are eligible employee relinquishes their bid as-

30 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Letter carriers’ USERRA rights (continued) signment, which is then vacated and than 14 days after the employee’s against an applicant or employee posted for bid under the provisions of completion of the military service. If based on service in the uniformed ser- Article 41, Section 1.A.1. They do not submission of written request for re- vices and prohibits acts of reprisal for have bidding rights while on active turn to duty is impossible or unreason- exercising a right stipulated in its pro- military duty. In addition, letter carri- able through no fault of the employee, visions or for seeking its enforcement. ers who were PTFs prior to resigning it must be submitted as quickly as The application of USERRA regulations would not be promoted to full time, possible. can be complex, and problems may and CCAs would not be converted to For military service exceeding 180 arise. Letter carriers enlisting or called career status. Prior to resigning from days, a written request for return to to active duty in the military should the Postal Service for active military duty must be made within 90 days study their rights and discuss any ques- service, letter carriers should speak to from the date of discharge. tions with their local union representa- their shop steward or branch officer to Individuals who fail to request re- tive or national business agent (NBA). ensure that they fully understand their turn to duty in writing within the speci- As previously stated, carriers who rights under USERRA. fied time frames do not forfeit their are in an LWOP status rather than sepa- rights automatically. However, they rated for military service are still mem- USERRA reemployment rights may be subject to discipline because bers of the bargaining unit and may be To ensure entitlement to reemploy- of unexcused absences. A detailed represented by the union concerning ment and benefits, employees must explanation of the rights of military certain issues such as the failure of give their immediate supervisor rea- veterans in the discipline process is the Postal Service to honor bids. They sonable notice, either orally or in writ- available in the NALC Veterans Guide. should seek advice from their shop ing, of the impending absence from Members of the uniformed services steward, branch officers or NBA if they work due to active service in the uni- who are hospitalized or convalescing need assistance. Additional assistance formed services. In some circumstanc- because of a service-connected dis- regarding USERRA is available from the es, military necessity prevents the ability incurred during active service U.S. Department of Labor’s USERRA ad- employee from giving notification. In are required to return to work once re- visor, available online at webapps.dol. these cases, the employee’s military covered. They are to report or apply for gov/elaws/vets/userra/userra.asp. command may provide this notice. reemployment in accordance with the For more information on USERRA No advanced notice is required if it is previously stated timeframes. Normal- and other rights and benefits afforded precluded by military necessity, or it is ly, the recovery period may not exceed NALC military veterans visit the NALC otherwise impossible or unreasonable two years; however, the two-year pe- Veterans Page at nalc.org/veterans. to give notice. riod may be extended for short dura- Postal employees seeking reem- tions to accommodate circumstances Join the NALC Veterans Group ployment must report for duty within beyond the employee’s control that certain timeframes based on the prevented the employee from reason- The NALC Veterans Group is de- length of the military service. ably reporting or applying. signed to provide NALC members— For an absence due to military ser- The seniority of city letter carriers both active and retired letter carri- vice of one to 30 days, the employee who are reemployed following military ers—who are also military veterans must report by the beginning of the service is governed by Article 41, Sec- the ability to connect with fellow first regular scheduled day of work fol- tion 2.D.2 of the National Agreement. NALC veterans and stay informed Under the rules in this section, letter lowing eight hours after return home on issues of importance to letter from the military service. If an employ- carriers who enter the military shall carrier veterans. It is free to join. ee’s return to work within this time not have their seniority broken or in- frame is unreasonable or impossible, terrupted because of military service. Members receive a pin as a sym- and they are not at fault for the delay, Unlike members of the other postal bol of gratitude for their military ser- the employee must return to work as bargaining units, reinstated letter vice and membership in NALC. soon as possible. carriers’ uninterrupted seniority is re- If you are interested in joining the If the military service time was 31 to stored even if they return to a different group, complete the sign-up card at 180 days, a written request for return installation than their original. nalc.org/veterans. to duty must be submitted no later USERRA prohibits discrimination

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 31 Living one note at a time n sixth grade, “I picked cartoons Niblock enjoyed watching, The up the trombone and such as “Tom and Jerry” and “Looney orchestra I thought, ‘This was it,’ ” Tunes.” plays at the Kauffman Bradley Niblock said. “My parents “My mom could play piano,” he Center for Performing Arts, as well as will say I never put it down.” said. “My dad could [only] play the other venues such as large churches, at A local musician recently had visited radio, but they were so supportive.” concerts that are free and open to the his school, given a presentation about The Kansas City, MO Branch 30 public. Some of Niblock’s co-workers the instrument and played some jazz member continued playing trombone have come to see him play from time tunes for the students. Though Niblock throughout his school years, and he also to time. had played piano for a few years, there was a member of the marching band in Crowds can sometimes reach 800 soon was an instrument tryout night, high school and then at Truman State or more at events in the community. and that’s when he picked up the University in Missouri, where he earned “It’s really exciting,” Niblock said. “I trombone for the first time. He never a bachelor’s degree in music. like playing in front of a crowd like looked back. Later, serving in the Marine Corps, that. It’s a different crowd, [including] It didn’t hurt that the trombone Niblock played in military bands families. It’s not as formal as a profes- was used in all of the music for the while stationed in Kanehoe Bay, HI. sional symphony. It’s great exposure to He played in numerous concerts and music.” Bradley Niblock parades, as well as at special events Niblock loves helping people con- such as airfield dedications. Niblock nect to music in person, through live and his military bandmates also went concerts. That way, he says, “you can to Sydney, Australia, to play. feel the music notes instead of it being After spending four years in the played at you.” Marines, in 1997, Niblock and his wife The 80-plus-member orchestra tries moved back to Kansas City. He began to put on seven concerts per year. They with the Postal Service as a clerk the play many classical pieces by compos- next year, before switching to the car- ers including Brahms, Beethoven and rier craft in 2003. (He’s now also a stew- Tchaikovsky, though on occasion, ard and a CCA Academy instructor.) they’ll also have pops concerts in The carrier soon auditioned and which they play more modern music. joined a local community symphony. They also usually play a few Christmas “You learn about other openings” concerts each winter. while participating, he says, and he If Niblock has time in his schedule, tried out for the Kansas City Civic Or- he’ll try to squeeze in other concerts chestra. Niblock earned a spot playing where possible, including with the his bass trombone. local Lee Summit Orchestra. “I also

32 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Opposite page, Niblock was top: Bradley a Marine and Niblock (r) plays stationed in in the orchestra’s Hawaii. trombone section.

play with them occasionally, if they winds, brass—and started playing in band—he’s need someone,” he said. “I’ll play neighborhoods,” said Niblock, who never gotten wherever.” was excited to participate. stage fright. And practice makes perfect. “I play The orchestra has also held some “The big throughout the week, or else [I] won’t virtual concerts, one of which featured thing is to make it through a concert,” the carrier the winner of a young artist competi- prepare,” said. “It’s a physical activity.” tion, a talented high school freshman Niblock Practicing helps him play better, violinist. said. “Half is both mentally and physically, he says. And they performed their first pan- preparation, half is getting used to it.” “Sometimes it’s tough with two kids, demic-era in-person concert in April. He wants to play plenty more con- but I do what I can,” he added. “It was great” to be back, Niblock said. certs once the pandemic ends. “I hope The orchestra holds rehearsals every The musicians spread out at a com- to keep playing around town,” he said, Tuesday night throughout the year, munity college hall and played pieces adding that there are “plenty of oppor- and performances are held on week- by Beethoven and Haydn, among other tunities in Kansas City.” ends. Before a major concert, they composers. One thing the carrier knows for sure have four to six dedicated rehearsals. Niblock’s absolute favorite piece is is that he’ll always be surrounded by The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5. “I’ve music. “It’s just always been in my life put a damper on the 2020 season. been wanting to play that since col- since I can remember,” he said, both “Most of the season got canceled last lege and I finally got to,” he said. The playing and listening to music. In ad- year,” the carrier said, “but what can carrier also enjoys playing pieces by dition, his wife is a music teacher, and you do?” Brahms, who he says “writes so well one of his children plans to be a music To keep playing, the members got for trombone.” major in college. creative, and “Civic in the City” was The carrier says that over decades of Niblock’s favorite aspect of being born­—a series of outdoor recitals per- performing in front of large crowds— part of the civic orchestra is commu- formed around town while maintain- and even serving as a drum major of nity. “It sounds kind of corny,” he said. ing appropriate safety measures. “We his high school marching band and oc- “It’s doing something you love, but started breaking off in groups—wood- casionally conducting with his Marine you’re also giving back.” PR What’s happening on social media arious news stories and inter- Avalina Whitlow would connect daily esting anecdotes that celebrate with her letter carrier, Portland, OR V letter carriers and the mail have Branch 82 member Ian Simon. The been flying around social media. We two would share a dance through the plan to collect the best ones in this living-room window, and the toddler’s space. If you come across a story you’d father, David, captured a montage on like us to consider featuring, send it to video to post online. [email protected]. The video, appeared on major social media outlets such as YouTube, Face- Dancing Oregon letter carrier book and Instagram, received millions Avalina Whitlow raises youngster’s spirits of views and soon garnered attention and Ian Simon from various media outlets, including Over the past few months, you may the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), someone can pay, means everything, have seen a dancing letter carrier tak- “Good Morning America,” Britain’s because it’s been a struggle for ing over your social media feed. The Daily Mail and HuffPost Canada. everybody,” David Whitlow told PBS While quarantining during the ongo- “Even the smallest gesture dur- NewsHour in December. “Anybody that ing COVID-19 pandemic, 3-year-old ing these times, any kindness that does something nice for someone else,

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 33 News

Social media (cont.) it really means a lot. And it meant a lot us of what a wonderful community the night before, just her having us in to me and my family. we have and how fortunate we are to mind with her daily routine.… She’s a “A lot of positivity has come out have Mark looking out for our family. stranger to us, and that was the kind- of this video,” he added. “And so, I To us, Mark and his postmaster are est part.” thought the world needed something the real heroes who made it possible In a statement to ABC News through to feel good about. And Ian was a huge for a young kid to have a very special a spokesperson for the Postal Service, part of that, obviously…. I am really experience.” Mary called the act “a small gesture of glad that everybody else felt so happy kindness.” when they watched it.” Texas carrier delivers care package “The customer expressed concerns Simon has received a lot of reaction to customers with COVID-19 about my well-being with contacting since as well. Houston single mom Lisette the same mailbox as her while she was “I’m getting messages from people LeJeune was surprised to receive a sick,” she said. “After a few days, I left all over the world thanking me. It’s care package from her letter carrier a get-well gift at her doorstep because very inspiring,” he told the news pro- in December while she and her two I appreciated her concern. I didn’t gram. “One lady started doing Meals sons, ages 14 and 3, were at home expect it to get so big, but I would have on Wheels [which distributes meals sick with COVID-19. done the same for anybody.” to elderly residents and people with “I was really sick the first week, so disabilities]. And her first week on her it was really hard trying to take care Longtime Ohio carrier receives route, she started dancing the food up of both of them,” LeJeune told ABC’s special sendoff before retirement to the door. And a lot of the messages, “Good Morning America.” To honor their longtime letter car- I tear up. It’s just so heartwarming.” After opening the package that con- rier’s retirement in March, customers tained cans of chicken soup, orange Resourceful New Jersey carrier on Cincinnati, OH Branch 43 member juice, crackers and cookies, LeJeune Brett Wittwer’s route got together and helps young football fan discovered a note from her carrier, planned a surprise send-off for him, When Princeton, NJ Branch 268 Mary, saying: “Get-well wishes... I hope including balloons, decorated mail- member Mark Egan was handed a you all are feeling better!” boxes, gift bags and a large banner letter from 9-year-old customer Rishik Touched, LeJeune wanted to share with well wishes. Pannala in December, he noticed that the story. it didn’t have a mailing address on it. It “The sweetest thing happened this One neighborhood resident, Glenna was addressed to Tampa Bay Bucca- morning that made my entire year,” Weber Stricklett, told “Good Morn- neers quarterback Tom Brady. the customer wrote on Facebook. “I’ve ing America” that Wittwer is “always Egan wanted to help. He and his been home in quarantine with COVID. friendly” and would take great care postmaster found a potential address I opened the door one day with my when handling their packages. for the Super Bowl-winning team, and mask on and told my mail lady that “Like if it was a rainy day, and we mailed the letter. we had COVID[-19] and I would put had something that was kind of large, A few weeks later, the carrier deliv- a bucket in front of the house so she he would bring it to the door,” she ered Pannala a missive from the Bucs, could just drop it in without touching said, since many in the area had mail- which thanked him for being a fan and our mailbox as I get the mail out. This boxes far from the front door. included a signed photo of Brady. morning we received a care package Wittwer, who delivered mail for 35 The boy was thrilled, and Pannala’s from her.” years, was delighted to see the sur- father was grateful, too. She told “GMA”: “I guess she saw prises waiting for him along his route. “My wife and I very much appreci- the bucket was still there in front of my “It was crazy,” Wittwer told the ate our mail carrier Mark’s kind ges- door two weeks later,” adding, “What show.” “It kind of brings a tear to your ture,” the father told local TV news made me emotional was just the eye. I probably won’t see most of these stations. “It is efforts from people thought of her getting the bag ready, people ever again. It’s kind of a strange like Mark the mailman that remind in the morning before starting work or feeling. I felt happy, but I felt sad.” PR

34 The Postal Record June 2021 Election Notices

Bristol, Pennsylvania this decision must be made in writing Terry. The list of delegates must con- dent, vice president, recording sec- and received by CSALC Secretary Mark tain the branch delegate’s full name, retary, financial secretary, treasurer, This is official notice to all members Lesch by July 20. mailing address, phone number and of Branch 2572 that nominations are health benefits representative, director The term of office shall be three email address. This list must be ac- scheduled for the following offices: of retired members, three trustees and years, commencing from the date of president, vice president, treasurer, curate and approved by each branch a sergeant-at-arms. recording secretary. sergeant-at-arms, installation of officers. The date of in- president. This list must be received This is also official notice that nomi- two stewards and five trustees. stallation of officers will be determined by the state secretary by July 15. The nations for delegates to the 2021 state at a later date. state secretary will then send forms Nominations will be accepted at convention shall be made. both September and October meet- Mark Lesch, Sec., CSALC for submitting nominations. Nomi- ings, and by mail to P.O. Box 711, Mor- nations must be returned by July 30. Maryann DeRevere, Rec. Sec., Br. 19 Greater East Bay, California Nominations can also be made by risville, PA 19067. Nominations will be Norman, Oklahoma closed at the conclusion of the branch This is official notice to the member- phone or email. Any nomination sent meeting on Oct. 5. Elections will be ship of Branch 1111 that nominations by email or phone not listed on a The process for electing officers held and decided at the meeting on for the election of branch officers will branch’s record will not be accepted. and delegates of Branch 1491 will be- Nov. 2. be held at the regular monthly general The address, phone and email to gin in May. All offices are for a term of one year, meeting at 7 p.m. on Aug. 24 at the where nominations can be sent will Barbara Semke, Sec., Br. 1491 from January 2022 through December branch office located at 402 37th St., be included in the nomination letters 2022. or virtually, based on CDC guidelines. sent to branches and delegates. Richardson, Texas William Rittler, Rec. Sec., Br. 2572 The term of office is two years, begin- If the nominations result in two This is a notice to all members of ning with the installation of officers at or more nominees for any position, Branch 4784 that there will be a vote the Nov. 23 branch meeting. there will be an election for that posi- California on the bylaw changes that were read at In accordance with the dispensation Nominations will be held for the tion. An election committee will then following branch offices: president, ex- be appointed by State President Bob the April 8 meeting. The vote will take granted by NALC President Fredric V. place at the regular monthly meeting Rolando, the California State Associa- ecutive vice president, first vice presi- McNulty. on Aug. 12. If you would like a copy of tion of Letter Carriers (CSALC) will con- dent, second vice president, third vice All branches must notify the state the proposed changes, mail your re- duct the election of officers by holding president, fourth vice president, secre- secretary of the decision to vote en tary-treasurer, assistant secretary-trea- a nomination meeting online and, if bloc or to allow their branch delegates quest to: P.O. Box 830314, Richardson, surer, insurance officer, three trustees, necessary, an election by secret mail to vote individually by July 30. Branch- TX 75083-0314. seven executive council members and ballot. es that vote en bloc will be allowed per Freddie Jackson, Pres.,Br. 4784 a sergeant-at-arms. Article 5, Section 2 of the KYSALC Con- Acceptance of any nomination must All candidates for office must be be in writing on the official CSALC nomi- stitution: “The basis of representation Toms River, New Jersey present at the branch meeting when and vote shall be one delegate and nation form. The nomination form must This is to serve as official notice to nominated and/or signify in writing one vote for each Branch having twen- be completed and received by July 10 their willingness to serve if elected. ty (20) members or less, and one addi- all members of Branch 2128 in good by CSALC Secretary Mark Lesch. Mail Nominations may also be made in tional delegate and vote for each addi- standing that we will hold nomina- completed nomination forms to: CSALC writing, but must be received by the Secretary Mark Lesch, 14579 Golden tional twenty (20) or fraction thereof.” tions for the election of officers at secretary-treasurer before nominations the regular branch meeting on Sept. Trails, Victorville, CA 92392-6147. at the branch meeting on Aug. 24. All Branches that allow delegates to vote 14 at the Toms River Elks Lodge, 600 The nomination meeting will be candidates/regular members must individually will receive one vote per held on July 18 at 1 p.m. PDT using the verify that they have not held, accepted delegate. Each state officer will also Washington St., Toms River, at 6 p.m. Webex web-conferencing software. or applied for (voluntarily or otherwise) be allowed one vote. Candidates must be present to accept Login information for the nomination a supervisory position in the Postal In accordance with Article 5, Section nominations. meeting will be provided to all Califor- Service in the 24 months preceding 5, the number of members for whom If a candidate seeking nomination nia branch presidents and all nomi- nomination. Candidates may accept a per capita tax was paid into this asso- is unable to be present at the meeting, nees and will posted on the CSALC nomination for only one office. ciation, or who had withholding through he/she must signify in writing his/her website (csalc.org). Any delegate may Nominations for delegates to the Forms 1187 or 1189 for the term begin- desire to be placed in nomination for nominate an eligible member for any of state and national conventions will ning Jan. 1, prior to the convention, shall the office and a letter must be received determine the number of delegates and the following CSALC offices: president, also be held. The candidates elected by the branch secretary before the Sep- vice president, secretary, treasurer, as president and secretary-treasurer votes a branch is entitled. tember meeting. director of education/organization, di- shall be compensation-eligible by vir- The election committee will have Nominations will be held for the fol- rector of retirees and eight district offi- tue of their offices. the task of printing ballots and mailing Election Notices cers. The district officer nominee must The election will be conducted by those ballots to the branches or del- lowing branch offices: president, first be a member of their district and will secret mail ballot. Ballots with instruc- egates voting individually by Aug. 10. vice president, second vice president, be elected by the delegates from that tions will be mailed to the address of The ballots must be returned to the recording/financial secretary, trea- Election Notices must be district. record to all eligible members in good election committee by Sept. 1. surer, sergeant-at-arms, Letter Carrier submitted to The Postal Re- No person may accept a nomination standing on or about Sept. 13. Write-in A member who is nominated for Political Fund organizer, three trust- cord, not to other offices at for more than one CSALC office. Self- votes are not permitted. Eligible mem- any position and is unopposed will be ees, seven executive board members, NALC. The Constitution for nominations are allowed. If there is bers who have not received a ballot considered elected to that position. health benefit representative and di- Government of Federal and must contact the branch office right only one candidate for a CSALC office, The elected officers and executive rector of retirees. Subordinate Branches re- that position shall be declared elected away. Ballots are to be returned by board members will assume office af- quires that notice be mailed close of business on Oct. 20. The re- Candidates may accept nomina- by consent. ter ballots are counted. The results of tions for only one office. The terms of to members no fewer than If necessary, the election of officers sults will be announced at the Oct. 26 the election will be sent to all branch- general membership meeting. office will be three years, beginning 45 days before the election by secret mail ballot shall include only es and delegates that voted individu- Jan. 1, 2022. By virtue of their office, (Article 5, Section 4). Branch duly elected delegates by and for their Edward P. Fletcher, Pres., Br. 1111 ally by the state secretary. the president, first vice president and secretaries must remember branches. Branches that have been Steve Terry, Sec., KYSALC unable to elect delegates to the 2021 Kentucky second vice president in the forthcom- the time difference between CSALC convention due to the pandemic This is an amended notice of elec- New Haven, Connecticut ing election shall automatically be deadline for submission may authorize their delegates to the tion for the Kentucky State Associa- delegates to the national and state of notices—the 10th of the This is official notice to all mem- conventions that will take place during month—and publication of previous CSALC convention to partici- tion of Letter Carriers. bers of Branch 19 that nominations for pate in the nomination and election Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it officers will take place at the regular their terms in office. the subsequent issue of the of CSALC officers. Election ballots will is necessary to cancel the state con- monthly branch meeting scheduled The election will be conducted by magazine, e.g., June’s dead- be mailed to the home addresses of vention. Although we have to cancel for June 16 at 7:30 p.m. Nominations secret ballot. Ballots will be mailed to line is for the July publication. the qualified delegates. Ballots will be the convention, the state association will be accepted via Zoom, by email at the home address of eligible members. mailed no later than Aug. 23. The dead- must have an election of state officers [email protected] by 5 p.m. on Ballots will be mailed back to the elec- line for returning completed ballots to and executive board for the next two- June 16, or by mail to: Branch 19, NALC, tion committee and must be received the designated P.O. box (P.O. Box 4948, year term. 23 Brock St., Unit B2, North Haven, CT by 3 p.m. on Nov. 9. The election com- Ontario, CA 91761-0857) is Sept. 19 by NALC President Rolando has given 06473, or Election Committee, P.O. Box mittee will collect the ballots, bring 5 p.m. PDT. On Sept. 20, the election dispensation to implement alternative 185374, Hamden, CT 06518 (received them to the November union meeting committee will retrieve the ballots and procedures for nomination and elec- no later than June 16). Self-nomina- on Nov. 9 and begin the tally. Write-in begin the count. tion of state officers. tions can be made via all methods. A branch may choose to vote unit Branches must send a list of all Nominations for the following votes are not permitted. rule for the entire membership, and delegates to KYSALC Secretary Steve branch officers will be made: presi- Edward Sedillo, Sec., Br. 2128

JanuaryJune 20212013 TheThe PostalPostal RecordRecord 35 35 Executive Vice President

Legislative activism: The time is now Changes to expedited arbitration ou likely have read in this 2021 (H.R. 3076) would address is the mandate that USPS edition of The Postal Record pre-fund health benefits for future retirees. I will not go Yor on the NALC website about into the details of it here, but this edition of The Postal Re- the Postal Service Reform Act of cord includes a detailed explanation of not only what H.R. 2021 (H.R. 3076), a bipartisan bill 3076 would do, but also the history of this pre-funding that aims to provide financial and problem and why reform is needed. operational stability to the Postal Whether you are an experienced activist who needs a Service. The bill was introduced by refresher or a newer volunteer, I strongly encourage you to the House Committee on Oversight read that piece. It will arm you with much of the information and Reform Chairwoman Carolyn needed to successfully educate your elected representa- Maloney (D-NY) and Ranking Mem- tives on the importance of voting for passage of this bill. ber James Comer (R-KY) on May 11. NALC appreciates the bipartisan ef- There are several tools available to you to assist. Of fort to craft this bill that addresses course, there are resources like this magazine and the the long-needed reform, and we website at nalc.org, as well as NALC’s various social Brian are proud to support it. media platforms. While the bipartisan nature of The NALC Member App is the easiest way to receive Renfroe this legislation is certainly a good up-to-the-minute notifications on actions that each sign, and we are pleased with how NALC member can take to help advance our legislative quickly the bill has garnered support from many members efforts, as well as a wealth of other information. Infor- of both parties, this fact alone does not mean it is a cinch mation on how to download the app is included on the to become law. Political tensions in Washington, DC, are inside of the front cover of this magazine. still quite high after the events of the last several months. NALC’s legislative and political organizers have been The Postal Service remains a polarizing issue among the working closely with each of our state associations to very politicians that will ultimately vote on the fate of this communicate our message to members of the House of bill. This is where letter carriers come in. Representatives. That message and ask is simple—they should support and vote for passage of the Postal Service Reform Act of 2021 (H.R. 3076). “One of the greatest strengths of NALC does a lot of work with elected officials in our union is the geographic and Washington, DC, to gain support on our issues. How- political diversity of our member- ever, having those elected officials hear from their constituents is as important, and sometimes more ship.... [postal issues are] not par- important, than what they hear from us in the nation’s tisan, as evidenced by this biparti- capital. san legislation.” One of the greatest strengths of our union is the geographic and political diversity of our membership. The membership of NALC has a long and proud history We are everywhere, and our members’ political views of legislative activism. The dedication and hard work by vary across the political spectrum. This issue is not NALC members, when combined with our legislative and partisan, as evidenced by this bipartisan legislation. political structure, has allowed us to succeed in educating I encourage everyone to check the website, install our elected representatives on our issues for many years. the app and stay up to date with the latest on this im- In the last decade-plus, we have often been in the po- portant reform. Let each member of the House of Rep- sition of playing defense when legislative threats that resentatives hear from us with a clear message—sup- would harm the Postal Service have been put on the ta- port the Postal Service Reform Act of 2021 (H.R. 3076). ble. We have played a lot of good defense on ill-conceived We have the opportunity to get this important legisla- ideas for reforming the Postal Service; now it is time for tion to the desk of the president for his signature, and some offense to help push this much-needed positive re- finally address the largest piece of the reform needed form across the finish line. to stabilize the Postal Service, our jobs, and the service The main issue that the Postal Service Reform Act of we provide to the American people.

36 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Vice President

Legislative activism: The time is now Changes to expedited arbitration 2021 (H.R. 3076) would address is the mandate that USPS here are three types of arbitration expedited arbitration hearings nationwide by 2010. That num- pre-fund health benefits for future retirees. I will not go that make up our system for hear- ber has been pretty consistent each year since then. into the details of it here, but this edition of The Postal Re- Ting cases at the regional level: The parties agreed in the 2011 National Agreement to use ex- cord includes a detailed explanation of not only what H.R. expedited, regular and impasse arbi- pedited arbitration for 12 contractual issues, but did not change 3076 would do, but also the history of this pre-funding tration. This month, I want to talk about anything else. problem and why reform is needed. the expedited arbitration process. Ex- The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Re: Expedited Arbitration was continued in the 2016 National Agreement, Whether you are an experienced activist who needs a pedited and regular panel arbitration hearings are the same as far as how with an additional 23 contractual issues added; once again, refresher or a newer volunteer, I strongly encourage you to the hearing is conducted. There are the parties did not change anything else. read that piece. It will arm you with much of the information other differences, however. I have never seen a downside to adding contractual issues to needed to successfully educate your elected representa- In expedited arbitration, there are no the expedited arbitration process, because of the language in tives on the importance of voting for passage of this bill. briefs permitted, so both parties have Article 15.4.C.2 of the National Agreement that states: There are several tools available to you to assist. Of to orally close their case on the day of If either party concludes that the issues involved are of such course, there are resources like this magazine and the the hearing. Until this year, expedited complexity or significance as to warrant reference to the website at nalc.org, as well as NALC’s various social arbitrators had 48 hours to issue a de- Regular Arbitration Panel, that party shall notify the other cision, as opposed to 30 days for regu- media platforms. party of such reference at least seven (7) days prior to the Lew lar arbitrators. Also, expedited deci- scheduled time for the expedited arbitration. The NALC Member App is the easiest way to receive sions do not set precedent and cannot up-to-the-minute notifications on actions that each Drass be cited in future cases. Regular panel The MOU Re: Expedited Arbitration was continued again in the NALC member can take to help advance our legislative decisions do not set precedent either, but may be cited in fu- 2019 National Agreement, with 10 additional contractual issues efforts, as well as a wealth of other information. Infor- ture cases for persuasive value. added to the 35 already in the MOU. This time, the parties agreed mation on how to download the app is included on the Additionally, expedited arbitrators never are permitted study to make some changes to the expedited arbitration process: inside of the front cover of this magazine. days, whereas regular panel arbitrators are permitted up to two 1. We changed the time frame for expedited arbitrators to NALC’s legislative and political organizers have been study days per hearing date. render a decision from 48 hours to five calendar days. This working closely with each of our state associations to I want to explain the contract language changes pertaining to will give expedited arbitrators time to study the contractual communicate our message to members of the House of the expedited arbitration process that were made in the 2019 issues before them. Representatives. That message and ask is simple—they National Agreement and in the Conditions of Appointment for 2. We changed the language in Article 15.4.C.4 of the National should support and vote for passage of the Postal Service expedited arbitrators, but first a bit of history. Agreement to say: Reform Act of 2021 (H.R. 3076). We always have had an expedited arbitration process, but No decision by a member of the Expedited Panel in NALC does a lot of work with elected officials in way back when, it was used only for letters of warning and sus- such a case shall be regarded as a precedent or be cit- Washington, DC, to gain support on our issues. How- pensions of 14 days or less. That brought in plenty of business, ed in any future proceeding except to enforce its terms, ever, having those elected officials hear from their because suspensions were served as “lost time” suspensions. In but otherwise will be a final and binding decision. constituents is as important, and sometimes more other words, you would serve your suspension off the clock first, This change makes it crystal clear that expedited arbitra- important, than what they hear from us in the nation’s then file a grievance to get your record cleared and your money tion awards are enforceable. capital. back for the time you were forced off the clock by management. 3. We agreed to allow expedited arbitrators a study day for On average, we had about a thousand expedited arbitration contract cases in their conditions of appointment. This One of the greatest strengths of our union is the hearings a year nationwide back in those days. The reason for change will allow advocates to submit citations to per- geographic and political diversity of our membership. so many hearings each year was the money. Management in suade and educate expedited arbitrators who hear cases We are everywhere, and our members’ political views most cases was simply not willing to pay us for the money we regarding contractual issues. vary across the political spectrum. This issue is not lost from the time frame they kicked us out of work unless an 4. We expanded the number of expedited arbitrators around partisan, as evidenced by this bipartisan legislation. expedited arbitrator ordered them to do so. the country from 38 to 60. I encourage everyone to check the website, install Things changed in the 2001 National Agreement. This is when we went to the “no time off” suspensions, where you still The hope is that the combination of these changes will make the app and stay up to date with the latest on this im- using the expedited arbitration process more attractive to both portant reform. Let each member of the House of Rep- grieve to get your record cleared, but there is no loss of pay. This was quite a controversial issue at the time. There were many parties. The MOU Re: Expedited Arbitration allows the parties resentatives hear from us with a clear message—sup- who believed that going to “no time off” suspensions would to agree to add other contractual issues to the expedited arbi- port the Postal Service Reform Act of 2021 (H.R. 3076). lead to a sharp increase in discipline being issued to letter car- tration process. We have the opportunity to get this important legisla- riers. That did not happen, and it became easier for the parties The ultimate goal is to produce timely and fair decisions. tion to the desk of the president for his signature, and to resolve such discipline disputes short of arbitration because Also, to go “back to the future” and choose regular panel ar- finally address the largest piece of the reform needed there was no money involved. bitrators from the expedited arbitrator ranks when the need to stabilize the Postal Service, our jobs, and the service The end result of all this was that the expedited arbitration arises, as we used to do back in the days when we heard a lot we provide to the American people. process was used less and less. We were down to fewer than 50 of cases in expedited arbitration.

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 37 Secretary- Treasurer

Important reminders hether it’s filing reports with essary years of service, and the pins will be sent to the the Department of Labor branch. Should the branch be holding an award ceremony Wand the Internal Revenue and thus require the pins by a certain date, please state so Service, or just relaying information in the letter. Should the branch be awarding a 50-year pin to NALC Headquarters, certain tasks and gold card, please allow four to six weeks for delivery, must be done by branch officers— as gold cards are a special order and must be engraved by and in a timely matter. So, here are an outside union vendor. some reminders designed to help Bonding—Every officer, agent, shop steward or other ensure you get it all done. representative and employee of a branch or state associa- Reporting to the Department of tion who handles funds or other property of the branch or Labor—Any branch or state asso- state association must be bonded if the branch or state ciation that has a fiscal year end of association has property and annual receipts exceeding Dec. 31 should have filed its labor- $5,000. Branch and state treasurers should ensure that management (LM) report by March officers and others handling funds are adequately bond- 31. Additionally, any branch or state ed. Trustees should ensure during the constitutionally re- Nicole association that has a fiscal year quired audits that an adequate bond is in place. Please see Rhine end of March 31 should file its LM my April column for more information on audits. For more report by June 29. If you are not sure information on bonding requirements, please refer to the what an LM form is, or which LM NALC Branch Officer’s Guide to Finance and Administration, form to file, please see my January column. The form is due which has a separate chapter on bonding requirements within 90 days of the end of the organization’s fiscal year. (Chapter 4). The guide can be purchased from the NALC Reporting to the Internal Revenue Service—Any branch Supply Department, and an electronic copy is available or state association that has a fiscal year end of Dec. 31 from the secretary-treasurer’s page on the NALC website by should have filed its Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990N with the clicking on the “Resources” link. Internal Revenue Service by May 15. The form is due by the Rosters—Branch secretaries are reminded to review the 15th day of the fifth month after the end of the organiza- biweekly roster and ensure that all dues being deducted tion’s fiscal year. In addition, the Internal Revenue Code re- are correct. If a change needs to be made, please notify the quires branches with “unrelated business income” (UBI) of Membership Department in writing. In addition, members $1,000 or more for the year to file Form 990-T, Exempt Orga- called to active military duty may have their dues suspend- nization Business Income Tax Return, and pay any tax due. ed upon written request by the branch secretary. When the Generally, UBI is income from a business that is unrelated member returns from active duty military, please notify the to the branch’s tax-exempt purposes. More information on Membership Department so that dues deductions may be the above is in my March column. resumed. Branch mergers—Any branch proposing to merge should Per capita tax call—The six-month per capita tax call has review Article 2, Section 3 of the NALC Constitution, which been mailed out to branches. NALC bills branches semi- sets forth the requirements for affecting a merger of annually, in June and December, for the national and state branches. Requests for mergers received at NALC Head- per capita tax of their direct-paying members. For more quarters are often missing two requirements from both information on the six-month per capita tax call, please branches wishing to merge: 1) a resolution and 2) a state- refer to the NALC Branch Officer’s Guide to Finance and ment of reason(s) for merging. To avoid having a request for Administration, which has a separate chapter on NALC a merger returned, please ensure that your branch includes dues (Chapter 2). Please see pages 2-12 and 2-13. all of the necessary documentation. More information can Officer information lists—Branches and state associa- be found on the secretary-treasurer’s page at nalc.org. The tions are reminded to provide the Membership Depart- secretary-treasurer’s page is under the “Union Administra- ment with any changes to officers that occur. If you have tion” tab. not already done so, please immediately update the Mem- Service awards—Article 2, Section 5 of the NALC Consti- bership Department via letter or a “Branch Information tution contains information on the years of service mem- Record” card, which was included with the six-month per bership pins available. The branch secretary must notify capita tax call. If you didn’t receive one, call the Member- my office in writing that a member will complete the nec- ship Department at 202-393-4695 to request one.

38 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Assistant Secretary-Treasurer

New innovations ut of the ashes rises the simply set up a virtual conference using platforms such phoenix. Well, it may not as Zoom and Webex to generate a unique web address Obe that dramatic, but URL and paste it into the “Event URL” field identified NALC has recently created some in the event setup. Other information, such as the new and innovative platforms, greeting, the maximum number of attendees and any partly due to challenges we’ve important notes can be entered as well. PDFs can be collectively endured during the uploaded for that meeting, in addition to itinerary top- COVID-19 pandemic. These new ics to be discussed and addressed. platforms, we hope, will provide After a meeting has been generated, registrants or opportunities that may not have event organizers can add attendees by searching for otherwise existed. the member’s last name, adding people up to the max- NALC has for a long time oper- imum allocation per branch, state or event. The orga- ated a store selling NALC-brand- nizer of the event also can update or delete the meet- ed merchandise from the first ing, or it can be copied for future meetings. floor of the NALC Headquarters Paul building. Branches and mem- Barner bers alike routinely place orders “Branches and members can now through the NALC store for every- order the NALC apparel, memora- thing from apparel and jewelry bearing the NALC logo to member publications. Oftentimes, these orders were bilia and publications through a link placed over the phone or by mail. While those methods on the NALC website to the newly remain available, NALC has now expanded to an online store presence. launched NALC virtual store.” Branches and members can now order the same NALC apparel, memorabilia and publications through a link Members assigned as attendees can access the on the NALC website to the newly launched NALC virtual meeting through the Members Only section of the NALC store. The site includes pictures of most items and in- website on the scheduled date of the event, and also corporates a shopping cart method to use while mak- can view the associated documents and topics. Regis- ing a purchase. On checkout, the shopper can select trants can join the meeting by clicking the “Meetings” his or her preferred method of payment to complete the button in the Members Only portal, then selecting the transaction. And, rest assured, all items will be shipped specific meeting scheduled. A “Join” button will then through the U.S. Mail. To visit the online store, go to appear, providing access to the Zoom or Webex plat- nalc.org and click the link currently displayed as one form from which they will attend and participate in the of the banners on the NALC homepage. It also can be meeting. An instructional tutorial on the portal will pro- found under the “Member Benefits” tab. vide a step-by-step explanation of the process. Another recent development is the launch of the Also available: National assigned assistants (NAAs) Virtual Meetings application. This platform was pre- who are assigned to work on behalf of NALC are now viewed during the modified virtual branch officers’ able to view their NALC earnings statements by logging training held in late winter of 2020 and in early spring into the Members Only section of the NALC website. of this year. The Virtual Meetings application is de- From the portal, you can link into the NALC Human Re- signed for national, regional and state officers to set sources/payroll management platform. up virtual events though the Members Only portal on the NALC website. NALC regional offices and state As we reflect on some of the many hurdles presented presidents, secretaries and treasurers now have ac- during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, I urge cess to create and organize virtual events, set up reg- everyone to take time to reflect on the historic event istration processes for their respective members, and marked by the date of June 6, 1944—D-Day—and the deliver meeting links securely through the Members tremendous sacrifices made on behalf of all human- Only portal. ity on the day that became the turning point of World After creating the event in the Members Only portal, War II.

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 39 Director of City Delivery

NALC and USPS jointly Hey, Boss: Why won’t you honor explore new uses for technology the Joint Statement on Violence? he COVID-19 virus certainly chosen delivery units. As part of the evaluation and adjust- has changed the way we do ment, they will review USPS data from a variety of computer Tthings in our everyday lives. programs and applications. Additionally, the team will re- For many people, the pandemic has view Mobile Delivery Device (MDD) information to determine created significant changes in the if the GPS breadcrumb data obtained from the MDD could way we perform our jobs, purchase be useful in future route evaluations and adjustments. The groceries and supplies, educate teams will be tasked with evaluating existing technology, ap- our children, and participate in ac- plying current data to route evaluation and adjustment, and tivities with our friends and family. providing suggestions and feedback to the software devel- The ongoing pandemic has sub- opers to improve technology for the future. stantially limited our ability to have in-person interaction, and people Over the years, city carriers often have expressed con- around the world have been relying cerns about the possibility of inaccuracies in the route in- on technology more than ever to fill spection and traditional PS Form 3999, Inspection of Letter the gap. As an organization, NALC Carrier Route, process. Reported events of data collection is not immune to these changes. device failures, software data transfer issues and poten- Christopher The pandemic has forced us to alter tial inspector bias have prompted the parties to consider Jackson the way we conduct business on the whether development of a virtual 3999 process could be local, regional and national level. possible using the MDD breadcrumb data. To assess this From holding virtual branch meetings, training sessions possibility, the joint evaluation and adjustment teams are and arbitration hearings to the cancellation of the 72nd working closely with USPS engineering and technology de- national convention in 2020, the pandemic has affected partments to evaluate the current programs for necessary the way we function as a labor union over the past year. changes that could make virtual 3999s viable. If successful, NALC hopes that using MDD data in con- While the Postal Service and NALC often have discussed junction with the joint adjustment process would eliminate how we can leverage technology to benefit city carriers, the need for an in-person inspector to conduct a tradition- the events of the past year have really brought this issue al PS Form 3999. Keep in mind, the use of MDD technol- to the forefront. In recent months, the joint conversations ogy for this purpose would require a joint agreement of revolving around technology have intensified and ex- the parties, as well as modification of the contractually ne- panded to include specific approaches, ideas and goals. gotiated provisions of USPS handbooks and manuals. Use With the ratification of the 2019 National Agreement, of MDD breadcrumb data is in the preliminary stages of NALC and USPS renewed a commitment to work together development and might require significant improvements to modernize delivery methods and processes to ensure and/or revisions before it can be considered for perma- that the Postal Service remains the provider of choice for nent use as part of the route evaluation and adjustment customers and to continue our joint objective of creating process. For the foreseeable future, city carriers should an improved work environment for all employees. This expect to receive the traditional PS Form 3999. commitment, memorialized in the Memorandum of Un- At this time, there is no national-level agreement to derstanding Re: City Delivery and Workplace Improvement conduct joint route evaluations and adjustments beyond Task Force, identifies the parties’ intent of jointly develop- this limited initiative. USPS may still conduct formal route ing and testing new work methods and concepts that may counts and inspections pursuant to Chapter 9 of the Hand- include new or alternative uses for existing technology. book M-41, City Carriers Duties and Responsibilities and One piece of the MOU includes a route evaluation and Chapter 2 of the Handbook M-39, Management of Delivery adjustment task force to jointly explore the use of tech- Services. These include special inspections requested un- nology, data, advanced analytics and machine learning der the terms of Section 271.g of the M-39. Management to improve operations, route evaluation, adjustment and may also implement minor route adjustments in accor- optimization, delivery capabilities and visibility. As a part of this joint task force, two route evaluation and adjust- dance with Chapter 1 of the M-39 if the route meets the cri- ment teams were selected to facilitate joint evaluation and teria. As always, carriers should continue to perform their adjustment of routes in a limited number of delivery units. routes consistent with the M-41. The two teams will use the jointly agreed upon principles I encourage you to visit my City Delivery page at nalc.org contained in the 2014-2015 City Delivery Route Alternate for more information on the formal route evaluation and Adjustment Process to evaluate and adjust routes in the inspection process and updates on this initiative.

40 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Director of Safety and Health

Hey, Boss: Why won’t you honor the Joint Statement on Violence? chosen delivery units. As part of the evaluation and adjust- t is not that the employer is Service; and that there is no excuse for and will be no tol- ment, they will review USPS data from a variety of computer always engaged in overt be- erance of harassment, intimidation, threats, or bullying by programs and applications. Additionally, the team will re- “Ihavior that violates the Joint anyone. view Mobile Delivery Device (MDD) information to determine Statement on Violence and Behav- We also affirm that every employee at every level of the if the GPS breadcrumb data obtained from the MDD could ior in the Workplace; it is that they Postal Service should be treated at all times with dignity, be useful in future route evaluations and adjustments. The are constantly grinding and grind- respect, and fairness. The need for the USPS to serve the teams will be tasked with evaluating existing technology, ap- ing on carriers.”—October 2011 public efficiently and productively, and the need for all em- plying current data to route evaluation and adjustment, and Postal Record ployees to be committed to giving a fair day’s work for a fair providing suggestions and feedback to the software devel- day’s pay, does not justify actions that are abusive or intol- opers to improve technology for the future. Well, the situation has become erant. “Making the numbers” is not an excuse for the abuse worse since that was written. The of anyone, Those who do not treat others with dignity and Over the years, city carriers often have expressed con- above scenario seems subtle respect will not be rewarded or promoted. Those whose un- cerns about the possibility of inaccuracies in the route in- when compared to the inappropri- acceptable behavior continues will be removed from their spection and traditional PS Form 3999, Inspection of Letter ate, aggressive behavior that has positions.... Carrier Route, process. Reported events of data collection become more and more common device failures, software data transfer issues and poten- on the workroom floor in our cur- The commitments made in the JSOV are contractu- tial inspector bias have prompted the parties to consider Manuel L. rent environment. ally enforceable. You need to breathe life into these whether development of a virtual 3999 process could be Peralta Jr. No matter how much we hope commitments through your efforts, using the grievance possible using the MDD breadcrumb data. To assess this for progress, it all depends on the procedure, labor-management meetings and/or safety possibility, the joint evaluation and adjustment teams are top brass. committee meetings. Management often claims that as- working closely with USPS engineering and technology de- Does the leadership of USPS want to make the neces- sertions of a violation of the JSOV are not in fact safety partments to evaluate the current programs for necessary sary changes to stop the vicious cycle, or do we have to issues. changes that could make virtual 3999s viable. constantly fight the abusers on the front line? Does up- Arbitrator Charles Rehmus, in a decision dated July 24, If successful, NALC hopes that using MDD data in con- per management honor the commitments made in the 1997 (C-17542), addressing the conduct of an officer in junction with the joint adjustment process would eliminate Joint Statement on Violence and Behavior in the Work- charge (OIC) in Yucaipa, CA, wrote the following: the need for an in-person inspector to conduct a tradition- place (JSOV)? Why does upper management protect its ...Here, Management argues, no safety related complaint al PS Form 3999. Keep in mind, the use of MDD technol- abusive number-chasers after having promised that was made to Management by any employee and hence the ogy for this purpose would require a joint agreement of there would be no excuse for such behavior? Union’s use of [Article 14 2 c] was improper. the parties, as well as modification of the contractually ne- Management’s actions speak much louder than the gotiated provisions of USPS handbooks and manuals. Use excuses we hear. ...The conjunction of safety concerns and undue levels of of MDD breadcrumb data is in the preliminary stages of stress in Postal workplaces in these few sentences quoted We all know that until upper management stops de- development and might require significant improvements from the Joint Statement is obvious. When a Union steward fending abusive managers, this madness will never end. and/or revisions before it can be considered for perma- comes to a supervisor and complains that an OIC has threat- nent use as part of the route evaluation and adjustment The incoming supervisor wants to focus on numbers ened, bullied, and harassed Postal employees by words and process. For the foreseeable future, city carriers should above anything else, especially since he or she knows actions, that is a complaint of a Safety and Health violation expect to receive the traditional PS Form 3999. that the predecessor earned the promotion by chasing that can properly be raised as a Step 2 grievance under Ar- At this time, there is no national-level agreement to those sacred numbers. ticle 14.2(c) of the National Agreement. The rejection of this conduct joint route evaluations and adjustments beyond The JSOV (M-1242) is the strongest tool we have in our argument in Management’s Step 3 Answer to this grievance this limited initiative. USPS may still conduct formal route arsenal to address the inappropriate conduct of your su- (Jt. Ex. 2, p.3)... is simply an example of “winks and nods, counts and inspections pursuant to Chapter 9 of the Hand- or skepticism” as the framers of the Joint Statement feared pervisor/manager/postmaster. The JSOV was drafted by that some of the Service’s 700,000 employees might take it. book M-41, City Carriers Duties and Responsibilities and union and postal leadership following the tragic blood- Chapter 2 of the Handbook M-39, Management of Delivery shed in Royal Oak, MI, in 1991, which was preceded by a The commitments made in the JSOV were the right Services. These include special inspections requested un- number of workplace events that led to the phrase “go- ones. Management at every level needs to step up. Do- der the terms of Section 271.g of the M-39. Management ing postal.” ing so would make the necessary difference. may also implement minor route adjustments in accor- The following two commitments in the JSOV are key Keep an eye on each other, and take note of what is dance with Chapter 1 of the M-39 if the route meets the cri- to bettering our workplace climate (some phrases have happening. Your observations are key to making the teria. As always, carriers should continue to perform their been bolded for emphasis): changes we need. Don’t look the other way. Care for your routes consistent with the M-41. ...We openly acknowledge that in some places or units there colleagues as you would have them care for you. I encourage you to visit my City Delivery page at nalc.org is an unacceptable level of stress in the workplace; that (continued on next page) for more information on the formal route evaluation and there is no excuse for and will be no tolerance of violence or inspection process and updates on this initiative. any threats of violence by anyone at any level of the Postal

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 41 Director of Retired Members

Working after retirement Unclaimed property hile many letter carriers subject to the offset. This exemption must be requested ach year, the Mutual Benefit who retire may never look by the Postal Service and approved by OPM. The exemp- Association (MBA) has the ob- Wback, there are those who tion allows annuitants to work for the Postal Service for a Eligation of reporting unclaimed consider returning to the workforce. limited time without a reduction to their salaries. Please property to each state’s treasury Whether they are making a finan- note that this exemption does not apply to the normal department. Unclaimed property cial choice, looking for a way to stay 360-day term city carrier assistant position. is money belonging to policyhold- busy, following a passion or a mix- ers who never cashed their checks That said, there still may be other benefits to becoming from MBA. MBA, like all insurance ture of many reasons, some retired a federally reemployed annuitant. If you are reemployed letter carriers decide to return to companies, makes several at- for more than one year of continuous full-time service (or tempts to contact policyholders punch the clock a few more times. one year equivalent of part-time work), you may be eli- If you’re retired but considering about these funds that are due to gible for a supplemental annuity (not to be confused with them before remitting them to the going back to work for the fed- the special annuity supplement). A supplemental annu- eral government, you need to be various state treasury departments. ity is calculated differently for CSRS and FERS employees, Most of our outstanding checks are aware of the effect that will have but the calculation is similar to the general formulas used on your salary and your annuity. dividend payments that are often in each system. FERS employees can multiply each year small amounts, but some can be for Dan In general, if you become reem- of reemployment by 1 percent, and then multiply by the James W. ployed with the federal govern- several hundred dollars. Toth average salary during reemployment. “Jim” Yates In addition to uncashed divi- ment while collecting a Civil Ser- If you are re-employed for five years of actual continu- vice Retirement System (CSRS) or dend checks, MBA matches death ous full-time service (or part-time equivalent), you may records provided by one of our vendors against our ac- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) annuity, elect to have your annuity redetermined in lieu of a sup- your wages will be offset by the amount of your annuity. tive policy files. This provides us notice of when one of plemental annuity. The redetermination is calculated us- our policyholders has died, but it does not always help As a reemployed annuitant with the federal government, ing the general formulas for each retirement system. Any us find the beneficiary to whom the insurance proceeds your salary will be offset, dollar for dollar, by the amount unused sick leave from your original annuity is combined should be paid. These insurance proceeds are often of your annuity. This reduction to your salary will often be with any unused sick leave from your reemployment and several thousand dollars, and would best be remitted substantial. Such a reduction may be prohibitive, and pre- used in the annuity calculation. to the beneficiary whom the policyholder has designat- vents many from returning to the federal government. Annuitants who find employment outside of the federal ed, rather than remitted to the state. To compute the offset, divide your gross yearly annuity by government are not subject to the same offsets described As director of MBA, I have a legal and fiduciary re- 2,080 hours. The result is the offset per hour, which you can above, but they should be mindful of earning limits for sponsibility to pay our policyholders, or their beneficia- multiply by 80 hours to see how much would be deducted both the FERS special annuity supplement and Social Se- ries, the funds that are due and to minimize the amount from your salary each pay period for a full-time employee: curity that may result in different offsets. The special an- of these funds that we are required to remit to state nuity supplement and the Social Security earnings limit is • Gross monthly annuity x 12/2080 hours = Hourly treasury departments. In this article, I will highlight $18,960 for 2021. Previous retirement columns have ad- rate of annuity some of the actions that MBA takes to minimize its un- dressed the earnings limit for the special annuity supple- • Hourly rate of annuity x hours of basic pay = claimed property obligation and inform you of some of ment and Social Security—see the September 2019 and Amount of offset for the pay period the things that you can do to minimize the risk of funds July 2017 issues of The Postal Record, respectively. that are due to you being turned over to the state. It is In essence, you are waiving the value of your annu- Those on FERS or CSRS disability retirement should important to note that not only does MBA perform its ity when you return to a federal job for as long as you also be aware that if you are reemployed in federal ser- unclaimed property due diligence, but all insurance were employed. It makes more sense to reemploy with vice in a position equivalent to the position you held at companies, banks and other financial institutions may the federal government if you are making a substantial retirement, or if you exceed the earnings limitation of 80 be making similar attempts to contact their policyhold- salary when compared to your annuity. This situation percent of the current rate of basic pay for the position ers/payees about unclaimed property. wouldn’t generally apply to retired letter carriers without from which you retired, OPM will find you recovered from a specialized skill or security clearances. your disability and will stop your annuity payments. After What does MBA do to find policyholders or beneficia- ries who have unclaimed funds? We send several letters However, there is an exception. age 60, there is no restriction on the amount of income to the policyholder, informing them of checks that have The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) may allow you can earn while receiving disability retirement. not cleared and of how to receive a replacement check the offset to be waived in exceptional situations when There are many reasons to find employment after be- for the money that they are due. We have traditionally requested by the hiring agency. coming an annuitant from the Postal Service and just as had good luck with this method, but we do not always As we’ve seen in the last few years, the Postal Ser- many factors to consider before reemployment. Under- have a current address for the policyholder. In addition, vice has hired holiday carrier assistants, with a focus standing the pros and cons of reemployment can help when we have life insurance benefit payments, we use on hiring annuitants. OPM has allowed USPS to hire an- you plan your retirement and decide how to make the internet search software to locate the beneficiary we nuitants to fill these temporary positions without being most of it. have on file or possible relatives of the beneficiary. This

42 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Director of Life Insurance

Working after retirement Unclaimed property subject to the offset. This exemption must be requested ach year, the Mutual Benefit method works well; however, it does not always result by the Postal Service and approved by OPM. The exemp- Association (MBA) has the ob- in finding the payee. tion allows annuitants to work for the Postal Service for a Eligation of reporting unclaimed Things you should do: limited time without a reduction to their salaries. Please property to each state’s treasury • Cash any checks within 90 days of date they were note that this exemption does not apply to the normal department. Unclaimed property issued or return them to MBA for reissue. 360-day term city carrier assistant position. is money belonging to policyhold- • Maintain contact with your financial institutions ers who never cashed their checks That said, there still may be other benefits to becoming and inform them of any address changes or chang- from MBA. MBA, like all insurance es in ownership. Banks also have an unclaimed a federally reemployed annuitant. If you are reemployed companies, makes several at- for more than one year of continuous full-time service (or property obligation and will remit property to the tempts to contact policyholders state because of inactivity in an account. In addi- one year equivalent of part-time work), you may be eli- about these funds that are due to gible for a supplemental annuity (not to be confused with tion, unpaid fees on safe-deposit boxes may lead them before remitting them to the to box contents being turned over to the state. the special annuity supplement). A supplemental annu- various state treasury departments. ity is calculated differently for CSRS and FERS employees, • Check statements and correspondence from MBA Most of our outstanding checks are or other financial institutions that may require a but the calculation is similar to the general formulas used dividend payments that are often in each system. FERS employees can multiply each year response and respond accordingly. James W. small amounts, but some can be for • Maintain copies of important documents and of reemployment by 1 percent, and then multiply by the several hundred dollars. average salary during reemployment. “Jim” Yates make sure that family members know where they In addition to uncashed divi- are kept. If you are re-employed for five years of actual continu- dend checks, MBA matches death ous full-time service (or part-time equivalent), you may • Periodically review your beneficiary designation for records provided by one of our vendors against our ac- important papers. This is extremely important, as elect to have your annuity redetermined in lieu of a sup- tive policy files. This provides us notice of when one of we are required to pay the beneficiary on file with plemental annuity. The redetermination is calculated us- our policyholders has died, but it does not always help ing the general formulas for each retirement system. Any us find the beneficiary to whom the insurance proceeds MBA even if those individuals listed aren’t impor- unused sick leave from your original annuity is combined should be paid. These insurance proceeds are often tant in your life today. We have paid more than one with any unused sick leave from your reemployment and several thousand dollars, and would best be remitted benefit payment to a divorced spouse because the used in the annuity calculation. to the beneficiary whom the policyholder has designat- policyholder’s benefit designation was not up to Annuitants who find employment outside of the federal ed, rather than remitted to the state. date. (See my April Postal Record article for more government are not subject to the same offsets described As director of MBA, I have a legal and fiduciary re- information about beneficiaries.) above, but they should be mindful of earning limits for sponsibility to pay our policyholders, or their beneficia- In addition to those items listed above, I also sug- both the FERS special annuity supplement and Social Se- ries, the funds that are due and to minimize the amount gest that you check your state’s unclaimed property curity that may result in different offsets. The special an- of these funds that we are required to remit to state website. Most states’ websites are easy to navigate and nuity supplement and the Social Security earnings limit is treasury departments. In this article, I will highlight normally have a location where you can search for un- $18,960 for 2021. Previous retirement columns have ad- some of the actions that MBA takes to minimize its un- claimed property that has been turned over to the state. dressed the earnings limit for the special annuity supple- claimed property obligation and inform you of some of You can periodically do an internet search of the states ment and Social Security—see the September 2019 and the things that you can do to minimize the risk of funds where you have lived to see whether there have been July 2017 issues of The Postal Record, respectively. that are due to you being turned over to the state. It is any funds remitted to the state that belong to you or a Those on FERS or CSRS disability retirement should important to note that not only does MBA perform its close family member. also be aware that if you are reemployed in federal ser- unclaimed property due diligence, but all insurance Each state has procedures to claim unclaimed prop- vice in a position equivalent to the position you held at companies, banks and other financial institutions may erty that has been turned over to the state. It is often retirement, or if you exceed the earnings limitation of 80 be making similar attempts to contact their policyhold- easier to do those little things that will ensure that your percent of the current rate of basic pay for the position ers/payees about unclaimed property. hard-earned money isn’t misplaced than to take the from which you retired, OPM will find you recovered from steps necessary to recover this money from a state’s your disability and will stop your annuity payments. After What does MBA do to find policyholders or beneficia- ries who have unclaimed funds? We send several letters treasury department. age 60, there is no restriction on the amount of income to the policyholder, informing them of checks that have For information regarding any of the MBA products, you can earn while receiving disability retirement. not cleared and of how to receive a replacement check please call the MBA office at 800-424-5184, Tuesdays There are many reasons to find employment after be- for the money that they are due. We have traditionally and Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Eastern time, or call coming an annuitant from the Postal Service and just as had good luck with this method, but we do not always 202-638-4318, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 many factors to consider before reemployment. Under- have a current address for the policyholder. In addition, p.m. You also can visit our website at nalc.org/mba. standing the pros and cons of reemployment can help when we have life insurance benefit payments, we use Please note: Currently, due to the COVID-19 pandem- you plan your retirement and decide how to make the internet search software to locate the beneficiary we ic, the MBA phone lines are open only on Tuesdays and most of it. have on file or possible relatives of the beneficiary. This Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Eastern time.

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 43 Director, Health Benefits

Health care fraud ccording to the National Health only way the Plan has to verify you received the service ull-time letter carriers and part-time regular letter Care Anti-Fraud Association submitted for payment. carriers receive holiday pay for 10 holidays per year: A(NHCAA), the financial loss • Never ask your physician to make false entries on cer- FNew Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents due to health care fraud is in the tens tificates, bills or records in order to get the Plan to pay Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Co- of billions of dollars each year. The for an item or service. lumbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christ- NHCAA also reports that a conser- • Ensure that only eligible family members are listed on mas Day. These employees receive holiday pay at the em- vative estimate is 3 percent of total your policy. Examples to review: ployee’s base hourly straight-time rate for the number of health care expenditures, while other • A former spouse after a divorce decree or annul- hours equal to their regular daily work schedule, not to government agencies place the loss ment is final, even if a court order stipulates that exceed eight hours. at as high as 10 percent of annual you must carry their insurance, is no longer eligible. City carrier assistants (CCAs) receive holiday pay for six outlay, which could also result in bil- • Children age 26 or over (unless they are disabled holidays per year: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Indepen- lions of dollars in financial loss. and incapable of self-support prior to age 26) are dence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas So how does this affect you? Fraud not eligible as dependents on your policy Day. CCAs in offices designated as having 200 workyears increases the cost of health care for If you have any questions about the eligibility of a depen- receive eight hours pay, while those in POStPlan offices re- everyone and increases your Federal dent, check with your personnel office if you are employed, ceive four hours. All other CCAs receive six hours of holiday Stephanie Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) with your retirement office (such as OPM) if you are retired, pay. A POStPlan office is any post office with a designation Stewart Program premiums. or with the National Finance Center if you are enrolled under below Level 18, and currently there are only 23 CCAs em- The NALC Health Benefit Plan has Temporary Continuation of Coverage. ployed in such offices throughout the country. a dedicated department, the Special Holiday pay should not be confused with holiday- Investigation Unit, which focuses solely on investigating fraud Sometimes premiums are not paid, or other situations ap- ply that result in a cancellation or termination of the policy. If worked pay or Christmas-worked pay. Holiday pay is waste and abuse and recovering plan funds. Over the last two payable in addition to compensation for hours actually years, the department has actively investigated and worked this happens, you should discontinue using benefits, as you are no longer eligible for coverage. If your enrollment mistak- worked on a designated holiday. When full-time or part- on approximately 1,000 cases per year. Each dollar recovered time regular letter carriers or CCAs work their holiday saves our members money. enly remains active and benefits are paid, you will be respon- sible for refunding the Plan. (whether it’s the actual holiday or their designated holi- Health care fraud is an intentional act, and can be commit- Fraud or intentional misrepresentation of material fact are day, because their scheduled non-work day falls on a day ted by dishonest medical providers, patients/members of the prohibited under the Plan. Violators may be prosecuted or observed as a holiday), they receive normal compensa- Plan, or an individual who does not have any connection to have other action taken against them. tion for all of the hours they work, plus the additional holi- the member but has intent to receive unauthorized benefits. day pay described above. Examples of fraud include: falsifying a claim to obtain FEHB What should you do if you suspect fraud, waste or abuse, For example: A full-time regular letter carrier is sched- benefits, trying to obtain or obtaining service or coverage for such as charges by a provider for services you did not receive, uled to work on his or her holiday and on that day works yourself or for someone else who is not eligible for coverage, double billing for the same service, or a belief that the pro- 10 hours. The pay for that day will equal eight hours at or enrolling in the Plan when you are no longer eligible. vider misrepresented any information? First, call the provider his or her base hourly straight-time rate for the first eight So, how can we work together to protect the finances of and ask for an explanation. This could just be an error. If the hours worked, plus two hours at 1.5 times the base hourly your health plan? provider does not resolve the matter, call the Plan at 703-729- straight-time rate for the two hours of overtime worked, plus 4677 or 888-636-6252, and explain the situation so we can • Never give your plan identification number to people an additional eight hours at his or her base hourly straight- investigate the issue. time rate for the eight hours of holiday pay due. you do not know or over the phone except for your You also can report allegations directly to the Office of health care provider, authorized health benefits plan or the Inspector General, which investigates all allegations of Beginning with the upcoming 2021 Independence Day Office of Personnel Management (OPM) representative. fraud, waste and abuse in the FEHB Program. The options holiday, full-time or part-time regular letter carriers and • Let only the appropriate medical professionals review for reporting are: CCAs have another option when they work their holiday. your medical records or recommend services. These employees who work their holiday now can, at • Avoid using health care providers who say that an item • Contacting the Health Care Fraud Hotline at 877-499- their option, elect to have their annual leave balance or service is not usually covered, but they know how to 7295 credited with up to eight hours of annual leave in lieu bill your insurance to get it paid. • Completing an online complaint form at opm.gov/our- of receiving the holiday pay described above. Employ- • Carefully review each explanation of benefits state- inspector-general/hotline-to-report-fraud-waste-or- ees who do not work their holiday or designated holi- ment you receive from the Plan. Although we under- abuse/complaint-form day may not exchange holiday pay for annual leave. This stand that this can be an intimidating task, it is neces- • Writing to the United States Office of Personnel Manage- new benefit was negotiated during the latest round of sary to review the charges submitted. ment Office of the Inspector General Fraud Hotline, 1900 collective bargaining between NALC and USPS and was • Periodically review your claim history for accuracy to E St. NW, Room 6400, Washington, DC 20415-1100 subsequently included in the recently ratified 2019- ensure that you have not been billed for services you This is your Health Benefit Plan, and I encourage you to re- 2023 National Agreement. did not receive. Your review and confirmation are the main vigilant in the fight against health care fraud. Using the same example above of full-time regular

44 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Contract Talk by the Contract Administration Unit

Contract Administration Unit Brian Renfroe, Executive Vice President Lew Drass, Vice President Christopher Jackson, Director of City Delivery Manuel L. Peralta Jr., Director of Safety and Health Dan Toth, Director of Retired Members Jim Yates, Director of Life Insurance Health care fraud Annual leave in lieu of holiday pay only way the Plan has to verify you received the service ull-time letter carriers and part-time regular letter letter carriers who work 10 hours on their holiday but submitted for payment. carriers receive holiday pay for 10 holidays per year: now exercise their option to receive annual leave in lieu • Never ask your physician to make false entries on cer- FNew Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents of holiday pay, they still would receive pay for that day tificates, bills or records in order to get the Plan to pay Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Co- equal to eight hours at their base hourly straight-time for an item or service. lumbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christ- rate for the first eight hours they worked, plus two hours • Ensure that only eligible family members are listed on mas Day. These employees receive holiday pay at the em- at 1.5 times their base hourly straight-time rate for the your policy. Examples to review: ployee’s base hourly straight-time rate for the number of two hours of overtime. But instead of receiving the ad- • A former spouse after a divorce decree or annul- hours equal to their regular daily work schedule, not to ditional eight hours of pay at their base hourly straight- ment is final, even if a court order stipulates that exceed eight hours. time rate for the eight hours of holiday pay, they would you must carry their insurance, is no longer eligible. City carrier assistants (CCAs) receive holiday pay for six have their annual leave balance credited with an addi- • Children age 26 or over (unless they are disabled holidays per year: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Indepen- tional eight hours of annual leave. and incapable of self-support prior to age 26) are dence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas not eligible as dependents on your policy Day. CCAs in offices designated as having 200 workyears If you have any questions about the eligibility of a depen- receive eight hours pay, while those in POStPlan offices re- “This new benefit was negotiated dent, check with your personnel office if you are employed, ceive four hours. All other CCAs receive six hours of holiday with your retirement office (such as OPM) if you are retired, pay. A POStPlan office is any post office with a designation during the latest round of collective or with the National Finance Center if you are enrolled under below Level 18, and currently there are only 23 CCAs em- bargaining between NALC and USPS ployed in such offices throughout the country. Temporary Continuation of Coverage. and was subsequently included in Sometimes premiums are not paid, or other situations ap- Holiday pay should not be confused with holiday- ply that result in a cancellation or termination of the policy. If worked pay or Christmas-worked pay. Holiday pay is the recently ratified 2019-2023 Na- this happens, you should discontinue using benefits, as you payable in addition to compensation for hours actually tional Agreement.” are no longer eligible for coverage. If your enrollment mistak- worked on a designated holiday. When full-time or part- enly remains active and benefits are paid, you will be respon- time regular letter carriers or CCAs work their holiday sible for refunding the Plan. (whether it’s the actual holiday or their designated holi- Parts of Article 11, Sections 3, 4 and 8 have been modi- Fraud or intentional misrepresentation of material fact are day, because their scheduled non-work day falls on a day fied to reflect this new benefit, and now read as follows prohibited under the Plan. Violators may be prosecuted or observed as a holiday), they receive normal compensa- (new language is bolded): have other action taken against them. tion for all of the hours they work, plus the additional holi- day pay described above. Section 3. Payment What should you do if you suspect fraud, waste or abuse, For example: A full-time regular letter carrier is sched- A. An employee shall receive holiday pay at the employee’s such as charges by a provider for services you did not receive, uled to work on his or her holiday and on that day works base hourly straight time rate for a number of hours equal double billing for the same service, or a belief that the pro- 10 hours. The pay for that day will equal eight hours at to the employee’s regular daily working schedule, not to vider misrepresented any information? First, call the provider his or her base hourly straight-time rate for the first eight exceed eight (8) hours. Effective with the 2021 Indepen- and ask for an explanation. This could just be an error. If the hours worked, plus two hours at 1.5 times the base hourly dence Day holiday, employees who work their holiday, at provider does not resolve the matter, call the Plan at 703-729- straight-time rate for the two hours of overtime worked, plus their option, may elect to have their annual leave balance 4677 or 888-636-6252, and explain the situation so we can an additional eight hours at his or her base hourly straight- credited with up to eight (8) hours of annual leave in lieu investigate the issue. time rate for the eight hours of holiday pay due. of holiday leave pay. You also can report allegations directly to the Office of Section 4. Holiday Work the Inspector General, which investigates all allegations of Beginning with the upcoming 2021 Independence Day fraud, waste and abuse in the FEHB Program. The options holiday, full-time or part-time regular letter carriers and A. An employee required to work on a holiday other than for reporting are: CCAs have another option when they work their holiday. Christmas shall be paid the base hourly straight time rate These employees who work their holiday now can, at for each hour worked up to eight (8) hours. Effective with • Contacting the Health Care Fraud Hotline at 877-499- their option, elect to have their annual leave balance the 2021 Independence Day holiday, employees who work 7295 credited with up to eight hours of annual leave in lieu their holiday, at their option, may elect to have their an- • Completing an online complaint form at opm.gov/our- of receiving the holiday pay described above. Employ- nual leave balance credited with up to eight (8) hours of inspector-general/hotline-to-report-fraud-waste-or- ees who do not work their holiday or designated holi- annual leave or receive the holiday pay to which the em- abuse/complaint-form day may not exchange holiday pay for annual leave. This ployee is entitled as above described. • Writing to the United States Office of Personnel Manage- new benefit was negotiated during the latest round of B. An employee required to work on Christmas shall be ment Office of the Inspector General Fraud Hotline, 1900 collective bargaining between NALC and USPS and was paid one and one-half (l 1/2) times the base hourly straight E St. NW, Room 6400, Washington, DC 20415-1100 subsequently included in the recently ratified 2019- time rate for each hour worked. Effective with the 2021 In- This is your Health Benefit Plan, and I encourage you to re- 2023 National Agreement. dependence Day holiday, employees who work their holi- main vigilant in the fight against health care fraud. Using the same example above of full-time regular (continued on next page)

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 45 Contract Talk by the Contract Administration Unit

Annual leave (continued) day, at their option, may elect to have their annual leave Effective with the 2021 Independence Day holiday, CCAs balance credited with up to eight (8) hours of annual leave who work on a holiday may, at their option, elect to have or receive the holiday pay to which the employee is en- their annual leave balance credited with 4, 6, or 8 hours titled as above described. (as applicable) of annual leave in lieu of receiving holiday C. Deferred holiday leave credited in accordance with Sec- pay. tion 4.A or 4.B, above, will be subject to all applicable Annual leave earned and received by working a holiday rules for requesting and scheduling annual leave and is subject to all applicable rules for requesting and sched- shall be combined with annual leave and counted as an- uling annual leave. This leave is added to the employee’s nual leave for the purposes of annual leave carryover. annual leave balance and is counted for purposes of an- Section 8. City Carrier Assistant Holidays nual leave carryover. C. Payment Letter carriers who wish to exercise their option to re- ceive annual leave instead of holiday pay must submit, to CCAs shall receive holiday pay at the employee’s base their supervisor, a completed PS Form 3971 (see below hourly straight time rate. The number of hours of holiday for example form) indicating such by filling in or checking leave pay for a CCA will be determined by the size of the the “Holiday/AL Lv Exch” box in the “Type of Absence” office in which he/she works: section. Letter carriers who have any issues receiving • 200 Workyear offices 8 hours this new benefit should immediately contact a local • POStPlan offices 4 hours NALC branch representative. • All other offices 6 hours

46 The Postal Record June 2021 MDA Report

2021 snapshot of MDA support ALC has raised more than a virtual yoga or workout class, do a dance on social me- $70,000 so far in 2021, dia, or make any movements of your choice. Nthanks to the 65 branches Register your branch at Muscle Walk Registration and that have gotten us off to a great compete against other branches for recognition. Fol- start! Let us get back to that pre- low the Muscle Walk registration instructions at mda. pandemic $1.3 million annual donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive. goal; for assistance, see a few of event&eventID=1152l to be sure that your branch gets the ways listed below. credit for all dollars raised. Our current top 10 Planning an upcoming fundraising event Christina Vela Davidson NALC Branch 2021 Donations to benefit MDA? Branch 38 $21,000 Reach out to MDA to share your plans about the type Branch 358 $4,835 of event, date, venue and goals. Branch 14 $3,727 MDA will share resources to support your event, in- Branch 1374 $3,000 cluding marketing materials, templates and timelines. Branch 36 $2,957 Hosting a golf tournament? MDA has an extensive Branch 1197 $2,950 toolkit to support all aspects of your tournament. Branch 134 $2,500 Important note: Due to the pandemic, best practices Branch 115 $1,894 and policies for events have changed regarding event Branch 4683 $1,600 expenses, contracts and day-of-event support. Get MDA Branch 127 $1,464 involved in the early event planning stages to ensure that your event follows the new guidelines. Mark your calendars—MDA ‘Deliver the Cure’ Branch Challenge starts July 1 Resources That is right: July marks our next Branch Challenge, • New mailing address for offline donations: Please and we want all branches to participate. Take these be sure you use the allocation form below, and steps today: mail any offline gifts to: Muscular Dystrophy As- 1. Register your branch: Be sure your branch is reg- sociation Inc., Attn: NALC, P.O. Box 7410354, Chi- istered at mda.donordrive.com/event/nalc2021. cago, IL 60674-0354. 2. Fundraise: Customize your branch page, send • NALC/MDA contact information: Call 312-392- emails, and start a Facebook fundraiser. 1100 or email [email protected]. 3. Track your activity: Once you are registered, download the MDA Fundraising App and track your physical activity while you raise money for MDA. a. Download the MDA Fundraising App. b. Log in. c. Click “Get Active” and connect to your Apple Health/Google Fit. d. Ask donors to support you/your NALC branch as you support MDA by walking your route, do- ing an activity, etc. 4. Recognition: We will recognize the top fundrais- ing branches weekly and share updates on MDA’s mission and what your fundraising is making pos- sible! Register your branch for the Virtual Muscle Walk This year, MDA is continuing fundraising efforts through our MDA Virtual Muscle Walk, taking place on Saturday, Aug. 7. Team up with MDA to raise lifesaving funds and awareness. Go out and run or walk a 5K, take

June 2021 The Postal Record 47 Staff Reports Creating your emergency preparedness kit isasters and emergencies can • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery s I write this, more than happen at any time. A disaster You may also want to add these additional emergency sup- 15,000 letter carriers have could be a natural disaster, such tested positive for COVID-19. D plies to your kit, based on your individual needs: A as a hurricane, tornado, flood or earth- A small fraction of that number quake. Or it could be man-made, such • Prescription medications has filed workers’ compensation as a bioterrorist attack or chemical spill. • Non-prescription medications, such as pain relievers, anti- claims. The small number of claims You should know the risks and danger diarrhea medication or antacids may be due to the fact that most signs of different types of disasters. • Glasses and contact lens solution people suffered light symptoms, You also should have a disaster plan. • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream used the coronavirus leave and Preparing for a disaster can reduce the • Pet food and extra water for your pet then returned to work. And while Assistant to the President fear, anxiety and loss caused by disas- • Cash or traveler’s checks many feel just fine today, very little for Community Services ters. Be ready to evacuate your home if • Important family documents such as copies of insurance is known of the long-term effects Christina Vela Davidson necessary, and know how to treat basic policies, identification and bank account records saved of a COVID-19 infection. medical problems. Make sure you have electronically or in a waterproof container As I wrote in my April Postal Re- the insurance you need, including spe- • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person cord column, the American Rescue cial types like flood/flood content insurance. • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate, Plan Act (ARPA) gave presumptive exposure to federal Below is information that will help you build a disaster sup- and sturdy shoes and postal employees who tested positive for COV- ply kit. Once you have planned for the safety of you, your fam- • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to dis- ID-19 and had contact of any duration with co-workers ily and your possessions, you will have peace of mind and be infect water and the general public while on duty. able to help others. Every family is different, and each will have • Fire extinguisher In response to the ARPA, the Office of Workers’ Com- its own needs and concerns. As you prepare your kit, consider • Matches in a waterproof container pensation Programs (OWCP) released new guidance for any unique needs, including mobility, disability, special needs • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items federal and postal employees who may have contract- and other medical needs for your family. • Mess kits, paper cups and plates, and plastic utensils ed COVID-19 in the workplace. Preparations for natural and man-made disasters are similar • Paper and pencil in some ways. Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with Any COVID-19 claim filed that was accepted for COVID-19 • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children the items on the checklist below, and develop plans for com- prior to March 12 is not affected by the ARPA, as OWCP munication, records, each family member and your pets. De- You should maintain your kit by storing it in a cool, dry place. benefits had already been extended. COVID-19 claims ac- fining your risk will help you develop an appropriate plan. You will also want to make sure that your boxed food is in a tightly cepted on or before March 11 (the date of enactment) are After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own closed plastic or metal container. Remember to replace expired not ARPA cases and have been processed through normal for several days. Being prepared means having sufficient food, items as needed. As disasters come and go, you may want to re- OWCP procedures. water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. To as- think and update your kit, per your family’s needs. OWCP has been reviewing all COVID-19 claims previ- semble a disaster kit, store your items in airtight plastic bags I suggest that everyone follow weather and emergency ously denied based on a lack of work exposure or a lack and put your entire kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, alerts to find tools and information to help get your home, fam- of medical evidence establishing causal relationship to such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. ily and business ready to deal with disasters: determine if the claim can now be accepted under the A basic emergency supply kit could include the following ARPA. The review happens automatically; you do not recommended items: • Get emergency information from the Federal Emergency need to request a review. Management Agency’s mobile app, including weather If OWCP determines that the case can now be accept- • Water—one gallon of water per person per day for at least warnings for up to five locations, as well as disaster, aid ed under the ARPA, the case will be reopened and the three days, for drinking and sanitation and shelter information. case will be accepted. If this occurs, you will be notified. • Food—at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food • Sign up for National Weather Service alerts to receive SMS Thus far, more than 400 previously denied cases have • Battery-powered/hand-crank radio and a National Oceanic text and email alerts, and see its suggested weather apps been accepted. and Atmospheric Association weather radio with tone alert to stay informed. No action is being taken based on the ARPA on COVID-19 • Flashlight • Receive emergency alerts by enabling your smartphone cases that already are administratively closed. The claim- • First-aid kit with the Wireless Emergency Alert public safety system. ant remains eligible for Continuation of Pay (COP) if a CA-1 • Face mask This includes automatic emergency alerts for severe weath- was timely filed, and medical bills for basic treatment in- • Hand sanitizer er, disasters and national emergencies. curred for COVID-19, to include any testing, are still pay- • Extra batteries • Find government information and services to help you or a able up to $1,500. • Whistle to signal for help family member deal with a disaster or crisis while traveling • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air, and plastic or living outside the United States. The long-term effects of COVID-19 are unknown. If sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place you tested positive for COVID-19, suffered symptoms • Moist towelettes, paper towels, garbage bags and plastic ties No matter what kind of disaster you experience, it may cause and missed some work, you should consider filing a • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities emotional distress. After a disaster, recovery can take time. Stay claim. OWCP has streamlined the COVID-19 claims pro- • Manual can opener connected to your family and friends during this period. cessing, making it easier to file a claim and get it ac- • Local maps Brothers and sisters, thank you for allowing me to serve you! cepted.

48 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Staff Reports Had COVID-19? Don’t use EFEL— file a claim • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery s I write this, more than COVID-19 claims should be filed via the Employees’ You may also want to add these additional emergency sup- 15,000 letter carriers have Compensation and Management Portal (ECOMP). The tested positive for COVID-19. plies to your kit, based on your individual needs: A form filing process in ECOMP has been updated to as- A small fraction of that number sist claimants with filing claims for COVID-19 on a CA-1. • Prescription medications has filed workers’ compensation The CA-1 for COVID-19 claims has been modified and • Non-prescription medications, such as pain relievers, anti- claims. The small number of claims the claimant now is provided with specific instructions diarrhea medication or antacids may be due to the fact that most to supplement the routine claim filing questions. • Glasses and contact lens solution people suffered light symptoms, OWCP considers COVID-19 to be a traumatic injury since • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream used the coronavirus leave and it is contracted during a single workday or shift. Since the • Pet food and extra water for your pet then returned to work. And while precise time of transmission may not always be known • Cash or traveler’s checks many feel just fine today, very little due to the nature of the virus, OWCP considers the date • Important family documents such as copies of insurance Assistant to the President is known of the long-term effects for Workers’ Compensation of injury to be the last day worked prior to the medical policies, identification and bank account records saved Kevin Card of a COVID-19 infection. evidence establishing the COVID-19 diagnosis. electronically or in a waterproof container As I wrote in my April Postal Re- You must have worked within 21 days prior to be- • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person cord column, the American Rescue coming symptomatic or testing positive for the virus. • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate, Plan Act (ARPA) gave presumptive exposure to federal Existing medical literature suggests that the incuba- and sturdy shoes and postal employees who tested positive for COV- tion period of COVID-19 is between two and 14 days; • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to dis- ID-19 and had contact of any duration with co-workers however, the use of 21 days acknowledges a potential “The infect water and the general public while on duty. delay in seeking professional medical evaluation and • Fire extinguisher In response to the ARPA, the Office of Workers’ Com- treatment. wom- • Matches in a waterproof container pensation Programs (OWCP) released new guidance for • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items federal and postal employees who may have contract- To establish a diagnosis of COVID-19, you must en’s • Mess kits, paper cups and plates, and plastic utensils ed COVID-19 in the workplace. submit a positive polymerase chain reaction COVID-19 test result (better known as a PCR test), or a positive • Paper and pencil Any COVID-19 claim filed that was accepted for COVID-19 • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children antibody or antigen COVID-19 test result, together with prior to March 12 is not affected by the ARPA, as OWCP contemporaneous medical evidence that you had docu- You should maintain your kit by storing it in a cool, dry place. benefits had already been extended. COVID-19 claims ac- mented symptoms of and/or were treated for COVID-19 You will also want to make sure that your boxed food is in a tightly cepted on or before March 11 (the date of enactment) are closed plastic or metal container. Remember to replace expired not ARPA cases and have been processed through normal by a physician (a notice to quarantine is not sufficient if items as needed. As disasters come and go, you may want to re- OWCP procedures. there was no evidence of illness). think and update your kit, per your family’s needs. OWCP has been reviewing all COVID-19 claims previ- If no positive laboratory test is available, a COVID-19 diagnosis from a physician with a medical opinion sup- I suggest that everyone follow weather and emergency ously denied based on a lack of work exposure or a lack of medical evidence establishing causal relationship to porting the diagnosis and an explanation as to why a alerts to find tools and information to help get your home, fam- positive test result is not available will suffice. ily and business ready to deal with disasters: determine if the claim can now be accepted under the ARPA. The review happens automatically; you do not In certain rare instances, a physician may provide an • Get emergency information from the Federal Emergency need to request a review. opinion with supporting factual and medical background Management Agency’s mobile app, including weather If OWCP determines that the case can now be accept- as to why you were diagnosed with COVID-19, even if you warnings for up to five locations, as well as disaster, aid ed under the ARPA, the case will be reopened and the have a negative or series of negative COVID-19 test re- and shelter information. case will be accepted. If this occurs, you will be notified. sults. Medical reports from nurses or physician assistants • Sign up for National Weather Service alerts to receive SMS Thus far, more than 400 previously denied cases have are acceptable if a licensed physician cosigns the report. text and email alerts, and see its suggested weather apps been accepted. Getting a COVID-19 claim accepted under the ARPA is to stay informed. No action is being taken based on the ARPA on COVID-19 not difficult. In addition to the medical evidence, you • Receive emergency alerts by enabling your smartphone cases that already are administratively closed. The claim- need a short explanation that you physically interacted with the Wireless Emergency Alert public safety system. ant remains eligible for Continuation of Pay (COP) if a CA-1 with at least one other person at work or on the route. This includes automatic emergency alerts for severe weath- was timely filed, and medical bills for basic treatment in- The interaction does not have to be direct physical er, disasters and national emergencies. curred for COVID-19, to include any testing, are still pay- contact, nor is there a specified time for such interac- • Find government information and services to help you or a able up to $1,500. tion—any duration qualifies. General office contact and family member deal with a disaster or crisis while traveling interaction is sufficient. This includes but is not limited The long-term effects of COVID-19 are unknown. If or living outside the United States. to interaction in shared workspaces such as the work- you tested positive for COVID-19, suffered symptoms room floor, break areas and common restrooms. No matter what kind of disaster you experience, it may cause and missed some work, you should consider filing a emotional distress. After a disaster, recovery can take time. Stay claim. OWCP has streamlined the COVID-19 claims pro- The bottom line is that an accepted claim for COVID-19 connected to your family and friends during this period. cessing, making it easier to file a claim and get it ac- will provide long-term benefits for you and your family. If Brothers and sisters, thank you for allowing me to serve you! cepted. you’ve been infected, file a claim.

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 49 Annuity Estimates

Monthly CSRS annuity payments Monthly FERS annuity payments for letter carriers who retire on Sept. 1, 2021 for letter carriers who retire on Sept. 1, 2021 he table below provides monthly basic annuity, survivor ages, which are based on the basic pay earned by full-time he Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) covers reduction and reduced annuity amount estimates for let- Step O carriers and vary by length of postal/federal/mili- federal and postal employees hired on or after Jan. 1, Tter carriers covered by the Civil Service Retirement System tary service. T1984. FERS employees earn retirement benefits from (CSRS) who plan to take optional retirement on Sept. 1, 2021. Reduced annuity amounts reflect the difference between three sources: the FERS Basic Annuity, Social Security and Estimates are computed by using the given high-3 aver- the given basic annuity and survivor reduction figures. the Thrift Savings Plan. An additional Special Annuity Supplement is paid to FERS 1 1 annuitants who retire at Minimum Retirement Age (MRA) plus CC Grade 1 / High-3 Average : $65,556 CC Grade 2 / High-3 Average : $66,929 30 years or more, or at age 60 plus 20 years or more. It is ap- proximately calculated by taking an individual’s Social Security Years of Basic Max. Survivor Max. Survivor Basic Max. Survivor Max. Survivor age 62 benefit estimate, multiplied by the number of years of Service2 Annuity Deduction3 Reduced Annuity4 Annuity Deduction3 Reduced Annuity4 Clip and save—may not be printed every month. Always available at nalc.org. 20 $1,980 $176 $1,805 $2,022 $180 $1,842 21 2,090 186 1,903 2,133 191 1,943 22 2,199 197 2,001 2,245 202 2,043 23 2,308 208 2,100 2,356 213 2,143 24 2,417 219 2,198 2,468 224 2,244 25 2,527 230 2,296 2,580 235 2,344 26 2,636 241 2,395 2,691 247 2,444 27 2,745 252 2,493 2,803 258 2,545 28 2,854 263 2,591 2,914 269 2,645 29 2,964 274 2,690 3,026 280 2,746 30 3,073 285 2,788 3,137 291 2,846 31 3,182 296 2,886 3,249 302 2,946 32 3,291 307 2,985 3,360 314 3,047 33 3,401 318 3,083 3,472 325 3,147 34 3,510 328 3,181 3,583 336 3,248 35 3,619 339 3,280 3,695 347 3,348 36 3,729 350 3,378 3,807 358 3,448 37 3,838 361 3,477 3,918 369 3,549 38 3,947 372 3,575 4,030 380 3,649 39 4,056 383 3,673 4,141 392 3,750 40 4,166 394 3,772 4,253 403 3,850 41 4,275 405 3,870 4,364 414 3,950 41+11 months & over5 4,370 415 3,956 4,462 424 4,038

1. High-3 averages for both grades (formerly levels) are for carriers who have worked full-time on a continuous basis between Sept. 1, 2018, and Aug. 31, 2021, at Step O (formerly Step 12). 2. Years of service includes any unused sick leave. 3. The reduction for a survivor’s annuity is the amount necessary to provide maximum benefits (55% of basic annuity) to a surviving spouse. 4. If covered by the NALC Health Benefit Plan, a further deduction of either $491.06 per month if for self plus one (code 323), $430.49 if for self and family (code 322), or $205.47 if for self only (code 321) will be made. In addition, premiums for any coverage under the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program will reduce the net annuity further. 5. Under CSRS rules, the maximum allowable yearly annuity cannot exceed 80 percent of an annuitants high-three average. This limit is reached when an annuitant’s years of service amount to 41 years and 11 months. Individuals with more than 41 years and 11 months of service will not get a higher annu- ity based on additional service, but may get slightly more than 80 percent of their high-three average on the basis of unused sick leave accumulated under CSRS.

50 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 - 51 4 4 4 55 56 56 .20 757 757 355 707 707 556 556 857 857 305 907 907 807 807 656 656 958 506 606 1,155 1, 1, 1, 1,10 1,2 1, 1, 1, 1, 1,4 1, 1,054 1, 1, 1,205 1, 1,406 1, 50 2,008 , 2018, and Aug. and 2018, , $1,00 ax. Survivor : $66,929 1 M R The Postal Record

Annuity educed 3

1 5 7 7 3 3 2 6 12 18 73 34 95 78 78 58 39 90 11 15 1 14 1 12 1 16 1 15 1 2 16 2 184 128 201 1 22 June June 2021 206 5. $112 eduction ax. Survivor D M

7 3 4 9 71 31 75 75 77 50 617 617 841 841 785 785 673 673 729 729 339 339 562 562 952 952 394 506 896 896 1,1 1, 2,1 55. 1, 1, 2,11 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1,22 2,2 1,4 1, 1,28 Basic 1, 2,06 2,008

$1,115 Annuity C The table below provides monthly basic annuity, survivor annuity, basic monthly provides below The table

4

Average 2/High-3 Grade C given basic annuity and survivor reduction figures. reduction and survivor annuity basic given FERS coverage, divided by 40. It is payable to age 62 and then 62 age to payable is It 40. by divided coverage, FERS 62. age at beginning payable are benefits Security Social ends. car letter for estimates amount annuity deduction and net Sept. 1, 2021. on retirement optional take to who plan riers averages, high-3 the given using by computed are Estimates O Step full-time by earned pay basic the on based are which service. postal/military/federal of length by vary and carriers the between difference the reflect amounts annuity Reduced -

5 3 2 9 31 33 33 78 78 721 721 573 573 377 819 819 770 770 524 524 918 672 672 623 623 967 967 328 868 9.17 9.17 1,1 1, 1, 1, $98 1,47 1, 1, 1, 1, 1,0 4 1,180 1, 1, 1, 1, 1,2 1,22 1,426 1,08 1, ax. Survivor M 65,556 : $65,556 1 R

Annuity educed 3

3 4 2 9 9 6 13 13 31 19 19 75 75 91 37 97 97 115 1 1 1 1 15 2 1 158 142 2 16 148 126 16 120 186 180 20 208 5.4 $10 ax. Survivor Deduction M

5 5 2 31 21 21 56 56 76 76 93 93 63 311 asic 912 857 857 748 748 530 530 584 967 967 803 803 639 639 694 694 366 1, B 1,147 2,1 1, 1,47

1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1,2 1, 2,18 1, 1, 2,0 1, 1,20 1,420 54. 2,0 Annuity $1,0

C

2

5

he Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) covers covers (FERS) System Retirement Employees he Federal or after Jan. 1, on hired employees and postal federal from benefits retirement earn employees FERS 1984. If covered by the NALC Health Benefit Plan, a further deduction of either $491.06 per month if for self plus one (code 323), $430.49 if for self and for self if $430.49 323), one (code plus for self per month if further a either $491.06 Plan, deduction of Benefit Health the NALC by covered If 35 36 37 38 39 40 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 21 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 20 2. Years of service includes any unused sick leave. sick unused any includes service of Years 2. spouse. surviving to a annuity) basic benefits (50% of maximum provide to necessary the amount is annuity survivor’s for The reduction 3. 4. FERS any that unlikely highly is it year, 1% per of formula the FERS given However, annuity. yearly allowable no maxiumum is there rules, 5. Under FERS 1.1% times at calculated are 10% - their annuities an additional receive service of years 20 least at with or later 62 age at who retire employees FERS 6. 1. High-three averages for both grades (formerly levels) are for carriers who have worked full-time on a continuous basis between Sept.1 between basis continuous a on full-time worked have who carriers for are levels) (formerly grades both for 1.averages High-three C Grade 1 / High-3 Average An additional Special Annuity Supplement is paid to FERS to paid is Supplement Annuity Special An additional year at Step O (formerly Step 12). Step O (formerly Step at 31, 2021, Life Group Employees’ the Federal under coverage any for premiums In addition, be made. will 321) (code only self for 322), or $205.47 if (code family further. annuity the net reduce will Program Insurance CSRS. under limit the 80% maximum exceed ever will employee salary. average high-three times service of years

Each additional additional Each

Years of Years Service Monthly FERS annuity payments annuity FERS Monthly Sept. 1, 2021 on who retire carriers letter for T three sources: the FERS Basic Annuity, Social Security and Security Social Annuity, Basic the FERS sources: three Plan. Savings the Thrift plus (MRA) Age Retirement Minimum at who retire annuitants ap is It or more. years 20 60 plus age or at or more, years 30 proximately calculated by taking an individual’s Social Security Social an individual’s taking by calculated proximately of years the number of by multiplied estimate, benefit 62 age

Clip and save—may not be printed every month. Always available at nalc.org. June 2021 2021 June State Summaries

clock. If Congress did away with that, guess Alternate procedures for nominations that Arizona what? Your steward would have to do that on have been approved by President Rolando will n the Arizona House Government and Elec- his or her own time, or the union would have be used. Elections, where necessary, will be Itions Committee, I testified on March 17 for to pay for that. If you think that isn’t important, done using secure mail-in paper ballots. An SB 1003 (early voting signature time frame ask any carrier who worked in 1970. Not only did election committee will be appointed by me elimination), on March 24 for SB 1713 (early carriers not have due process, but many of them as branch president, and all past Department ballot driver’s license), and on March 25 for SB were on welfare. of Labor (DOL) procedures will be followed. We 1530 (early ballots and undeliverable). You can Politics is part of your letter carrier existence, will closely parallel the current timeline for state witness House archive footage for yourself on whether you like it or not. Now, does that mean elections in even-numbered years. azleg.org, especially March 24 on SB 1713, when you have to participate in every precinct walk or KYSALC Secretary Steve Terry will continue to I was given one minute for testimony, and was phone bank being held? No. But you can sup- communicate with branch presidents and their witnessed by AZ3-TV/CBS 5 affiliate reporter port letter carrier friendly politicians by donat- delegates, and national officers if needed for Dennis Welch, who wrote and televised “Ari- ing $5 per pay period to the LCPF. Or, if you’re guidance. This assures that we comply with DOL zona GOP, Democrats clash in committee over a retiree, you can donate through your annuity. and NALC rules and procedures. Branch elected changing voter laws.” Every workplace right or benefit can be done delegates should contact branch presidents, I want to thank those true leaders in the Ari- away with by the stroke of a pen. and look to their U.S. mailboxes for when they zona House Government and Elections Commit- Eric Ellis will receive nomination forms for KYSALC offi- tee—Reps. Athena Salman (D-26), Kelli Butler cers and executive board. (D-28), Raquel Teran (D-30), Charlene Fernan- In contested races with more than one nomi- dez (D-4), Jennifer Pawlick (D-17) and Stephanie Florida nee, there will be an election. Same for if there Stahl Hamilton (D-10)—for the articulate fight of he 2021 Florida legislative session has are more than seven nominees for the executive our right to vote. board. As always, thanks to: Joe Murphy, the Ari- Tended, and with it came some unwarranted Sometime in the near future, when it’s safe, zona AFL-CIO political director, for having me changes to vote-by-mail. KYSALC can meet, and we can share camarade- prepped and woke, our sidekick Joel Edman The Republicans passed an election bill, rie in person. Thanks to President Rolando and of the Arizona Advocacy Network for being the which brings in new voting restrictions. Al- all NALC officers and staff for safely navigating fighter he is; Joe Cuccinotto, APWU Local #93 though all 67 county supervisors of elections, us through this awful pandemic. president and No. 1 paisan; and Veronica Marti- when surveyed by the Republican-led House nez of the Arizona AFL-CIO for being E.D. A spe- Public Integrity and Elections Committee, em- Bob McNulty cial shout-out to my brother, Rep. Richard An- phatically stated that there was no need for this drade (29th) for his USPS legislation HCM 2002 bill, it passed along party lines in both cham- (urging independence pre-funding), and dear bers—with the exception of one Republican Michigan Rep. Andrea Dalessandro (2nd) for her USPS senator who voted against it. reetings, brothers and sisters. Spring has legislation HCM 2005 (restoration of the Cher- This bill limits the use of drop boxes and lim- Garrived and with it the warmer weather. rybell mail-processing center)—you’ll always be its who can collect and drop off ballots. It limits As I write this, Michigan branches are voting senator to me. someone dropping off more than two ballots. for state officers; good luck to all candidates. On April 22, I was introduced by No. 1 Arizona The bill requires voters to request a vote-by-mail We are also in the midst of local negotia- State Sen. Rebecca Rios (27th) on the floor of ballot for each election. No longer will the return tions, and all branches are working hard to get the Arizona State Capitol as her guest, repre- envelops have a place to checkmark to receive a the best language in these agreements. It isn’t senting the 5,000 men and women who de- ballot for the next election. The bill also empow- an easy task, as it seems some postal districts liver “the ballots!” and oppose SB 1485 (purg- ers partisan observers during ballot counting are set on making it as difficult as possible. But, ing PEVL). Thank God—it failed that day 14-16. process. The request for a vote-by-mail ballot as always, the NALC pushes forward and gets it Thank you, Sen. Rios, for unlocking those Sen- requires the voter to provide identification by done. By the time you read this, negotiations ate doors, unsealing those Gallery gates, for entering their driver’s license number or the last will be closed and we will be into the impasse this humble letter carrier and showing America, four digits of their Social Security number. stage for items we couldn’t reach a mutual deci- Arizona politics! As stated in my last article, the 2021 state sion on. In unity— convention is scheduled for Aug. 12-14 in Or- We are still lobbying hard with our congres- Jeff Clark lando at the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace sional representatives to get them on board Disney Springs. Due to our concern for the safe- with several bills that will protect our jobs. ty of our members and their families, we had to We are still battling the pandemic, so I en- California decide whether to go ahead and conduct the courage everybody to continue to take all pre- o what do you think of our union’s legisla- convention in person or to conduct it by Webex. cautions to be safe. Stive program? I know some of you—actu- President Friedman set up a meeting on April As the summer months arrive, the kids and ally, most of you, since a majority of you don’t 13 of the state board of officers, along with the dogs will be out, so be alert out there. I hope contribute to the Letter Carrier Political Fund hotel management and staff, to check the fa- everybody has a safe summer! (LCPF)—don’t think much of it, or it’s not impor- cilities and discuss the safety protocols. After a Tom Minshall tant. Or maybe that the only important thing the thorough review of the ballroom to be used for union does is file grievances. If any of the above the general session, the locations for training applies to you, wake the hell up! and a Friday night dinner, we concluded that the Texas If applying the National Agreement on the hotel could meet all the safety protocols. Based s I wrote in my summary in May, H.R. 695/S. workroom floor is all you care about, guess upon this meeting, the executive board voted to A145/USPS Fairness Act has 260 co-spon- what? Article 43 states that any part of the con- have the convention as scheduled. sors in the House and eight in the Senate. The tract can “be rendered or declared invalid by O.D. Elliott Texas State Association is committed to work reason of any existing or subsequently enacted with every member of the Texas congressional legislation or by a court of competent jurisdic- delegation to support these bills that help re- tion.” You know what that means? If Congress Kentucky lieve USPS of the burden of pre-funding. As an passes legislation that says, for instance, that hile the Kentucky State Association of association in Texas, we are more than 17,000 we don’t get yearly raises or cost-of-living ad- WLetter Carriers decided to cancel our June members. I believe we will make the difference justments, then guess what? We don’t get them! state convention in Bowling Green due to con- when we come together and move as one. Your Same goes for “official time,” that archaic term tinual danger from the coronavirus pandemic, state association board is working hard with our for Article 17 provisions granting stewards the the nomination and possible election of officers letter carrier congressional liaisons to make this right to investigate/process grievances on the and executive board will continue. happen, but you can help, too! This is our pri-

52 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 mary focus. ability to form a union—wouldn’t you agree? Branches have the option for delegates to vote Along with the pre-funding legislation, con- Something to look out for is the final com- individually or vote unit rule. Branches that tinue to press your representatives to support promised bill from Texas SB 7 and HB 6. Both elect to vote unit rule must submit their unit rule the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. bills were voted out of their respective confer- form no later than June 30. Mail them to: TSALC Who does not support better wages, benefits ences. Why is this important? Voting rights! SB Election Commissioners, P.O. Box 182281, Ar- and working conditions? Our brothers and sis- 7 restricts early voting rules and schedules to lington, TX 76096-2281. ters before us fought for the right to bargain. The do away with extended hours and ban drive- middle class built America, and uplifting work- through voting. The best of luck to all candidates, and con- ing people can move the country forward and Lastly, the Texas State Association nomi- gratulations to those elected by acclamation. upward. Everyone should have a choice and the nations for all officers concluded on May 31. Carlos Rodriguez Jr. Honor Roll

NALC recognizes its brothers and sisters for their long-term membership NALC members who have completed 50 years of membership in branch requests for lapel pins. Accordingly, the secre- NALC are awarded a Life Membership Gold Card that entitles them tary-treasurer’s office can only provide suitable lapel to all privileges of membership in pins “when receiving proper notification by the Branch NALC without payment of dues. To Secretary” in the year when a member is to complete receive a gold card and 50-year la- the following number of years as a member: 25 years, pel pin, the branch secretary must 30 years, 35 years, 40 years, 45 years, 50 years, 55 write to the NALC secretary-treasur- years, 60 years and 65 years. Special plaques are er and request the award for the available for members who complete 70 years and 75 years. This is member. This is in accordance with also per Article 2 of the NALC Constitution. Article 2, Section 5 (a) of the NALC All requests must come from the branch secretary. Longtime mem- Constitution. bers are encouraged to inform their branches when they reach a lon- Additionally, the national secretary-treasurer’s office handles gevity benchmark. Below is a list of those NALC members who have received an award in the past month: 75-year pins James O. Cope Baltimore, MD Br. 176 William E. Trivett Bristol, TN Br. 807 Joseph J. Digiovine Jr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Paul H. Engel Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Paul R. Trzeciak Sr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Steven J. Rodetsky Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Thomas T. Fendryk Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Michael E. Rosenblit Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Nick T. Germano Jr. Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 70-year pins Frederick J. Schell Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Walter H. Jacquet Jr. Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 John H. Slater Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Melvin S. Marshalek Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Russell A. Kaczmarek Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 James J. Stack Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Stanley R. Klosowski Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Thomas M. O’Rourke Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Charles R. Barry Worcester, MA Br. 12 Robert J. Leskovar Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Roosevelt J. Harris Jr. St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Roger Haroyan Worcester, MA Br. 12 Robert L. Livesey Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 James E. Kluempers St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Anthony F. Locantore Worcester, MA Br. 12 James R. Millard Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Francis M. Wurst Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Columbus C. Batt St. Louis, MO Br. 343 James A. Mueller Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Sebastian J. Hirsch Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Earl H. Buescher Jr. St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Ronald S. Porst Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 65-year pins John H. Haake St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Norman M. Schroeder Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Anthony F. Jakuboski St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Leon J. Schutta Jr. Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Edward A. Holmes Jr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 David M. Knight St. Louis, MO Br. 343 David R. Malat Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Howard J. Neels St. Louis, MO Br. 343 55-year pins Leonard Roberts Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Raymond E. Schlereth St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Mary E. Halford Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Anthony R. D’Angelo Worcester, MA Br. 12 Bobby J. Whitaker St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Ronald E. Pankratz Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 George B. Gilleland Springfield, MO Br. 203 George Danscuk Westfield, NJ Br. 1492 Albert L. Salasberry Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Howard M. Foxwell Jr. South Jersey, NJ Br. 908 John Davids Westfield, NJ Br. 1492 Arthur M. Goldfarb Sun City, AZ Br. 6156 Phillip W. O’Neal Charlotte, NC Br. 545 John J. Diaz Westfield, NJ Br. 1492 Edward D. Rocha Sun City, AZ Br. 6156 Roger F. Hottenstein Fostoria, OH Br. 279 Alan J. Nahalka Westfield, NJ Br. 1492 Robert L. Cowell Central California Br. 231 Gary A. Negelspach Portland, OR Br. 82 William C. Dietz Albany, NY Br. 29 Victor F. Horg Jr. Central California Br. 231 Robert E. Fatzinger Allentown, PA Br. 274 Ray A. Didier Brooklyn, NY Br. 41 John L. Pellegrini Lima, OH Br. 105 Roy S. Kludas Central California Br. 231 Raymond B. Duron San Diego, CA Br. 70 60-year pins Claude L. Hall Portland, OR Br. 82 Harold D. McGann Portland, OR Br. 82 Joseph G. Quarles San Diego, CA Br. 70 Alray L. Buchholz Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Ralph V. Siedelman Portland, OR Br. 82 George B. Burt Rockford, IL Br. 245 Eugene R. Emerick Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Al R. Bonaccorsi Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Ronald B. Wennerdahl Rockford, IL Br. 245 Thomas J. Raia Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 T. A. Broderick Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Curtis E. Lyerla Southern IL Mgd. Br. 1197 Albert J. Rogers Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Joseph Chuly Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Ronald D. Richardson Southern IL Mgd. Br. 1197 Thomas R. Storcz Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Edward J. Gannis Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Norman F. Siebert Southern IL Mgd. Br. 1197 Thomas J. Hickman Central Florida Br. 1091 E. J. Krepley Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 William H. Airey Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Elmer E. Peel Sr. Moline, IL Br. 318 Thomas C. Morgan Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Ralph D. Barth Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Robert A. Peter Rockford, IL Br. 245 Walter W. Murray Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Marshall D. Biddle Jr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Norman F. Siebert Southern IL Mgd. Br. 1197 Thomas L. Schaffer Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Frank J. Davis Jr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Andrew H. Calvert Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Edward F. Westwood Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Frederick E. Deaver Baltimore, MD Br. 176

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 53 Honor Roll

Below is a list of those NALC members who have received an award in the past month: Charles F. Focht Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Larry E. Glispey Central California Br. 231 Gene A. Hacker St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Roland E. Gilland Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Terry L. Bales San Diego, CA Br. 70 Claude E. Jackson St. Louis, MO Br. 343 James A. Laufert Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Stephen Harobin Jr. San Diego, CA Br. 70 William A. James St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Charles P. McConville Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Steve C. Packer Tri-Valley, CA Br. 2902 Joseph M. Koncz St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Angelo M. Persiani Jr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Donald P. Economu Lancaster, CA Br. 4430 Larry W. Lefler St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Stanley L. Ray Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Gary G. Green Lancaster, CA Br. 4430 Lawrence C. Martin St. Louis, MO Br. 343 George F. Ryan Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Vito M. Mazzeo Lancaster, CA Br. 4430 Clifton W. Massie St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Reginald R. Small Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Henry Thompson Jr. Lancaster, CA Br. 4430 Kenneth J. Meyer St. Louis, MO Br. 343 John C. Strausbaugh Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Lawrence R. Pfifer Montrose, CO Br. 1517 Robert W. Miller Jr. St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Raymond J. Willard Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Sheppard L. Goldberg South Florida Br. 1071 Robert E. Murphy St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Curtis M. Williams South Florida Br. 1071 Donald R. Berthel Worcester, MA Br. 12 Michael J. Rhodes St. Louis, MO Br. 343 James S. O’Conor Moline, IL Br. 318 Richard F. Evanowski Worcester, MA Br. 12 Theodore L. Spiro St. Louis, MO Br. 343 James C. Sundeen Moline, IL Br. 318 Paul T. Farrell Worcester, MA Br. 12 Edmond C. Tappin St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Robert T. Albano Oak Brook, IL Br. 825 William F. Kelishek Worcester, MA Br. 12 Barry L. Thompson St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Curtis E. Lyerla Southern IL Mgd. Br. 1197 Anthony F. Locantore Worcester, MA Br. 12 Rufus L. Tillman Jr. St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Ronald D. Richardson Southern IL Mgd. Br. 1197 Clementine W. Tucker St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Francis X. Rushford Worcester, MA Br. 12 Norman F. Siebert Southern IL Mgd. Br. 1197 Michael E. Vassonei St. Louis, MO Br. 343 James M. Smith New Jersey Mgd. Br. 38 William E. Burke Topeka, KS Br. 10 Richard L. Verbeck St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Robert G. Andre Westfield, NJ Br. 1492 Robert J. Freudenberg Northern Kentucky Br. 374 Robert A. Vonderhaar St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Richard A. Conlin Westfield, NJ Br. 1492 Edgar W. Watson Northern Kentucky Br. 374 Philip L. Weitkemper St. Louis, MO Br. 343 James A. Jeffries Jr. Westchester Mgd., NY Br. 693 Vernon L. Wayson Northern Kentucky Br. 374 Michael D. Woods St. Louis, MO Br. 343 William E. Keating Westchester Mgd., NY Br. 693 Jackie R. Brouillette Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Leonard W. Vanderlip Westchester Mgd., NY Br. 693 Marion A. Cooley Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Robert C. Conner Southwest Missouri Br. 366 Cecil R. Fullerton Akron, OH Br. 148 Kenneth J. Edwards Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Robert G. Crocker Southwest Missouri Br. 366 Paul J. Merlo Akron, OH Br. 148 Charles R. Erwin Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Gary L. Greenwood Southwest Missouri Br. 366 Peter J. Filiaggi Elyria, OH Br. 196 Robert B. James Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Arwin D. Grinnell Southwest Missouri Br. 366 Dennis J. Alexander Portland, OR Br. 82 Clifford J. Lucas Alexandria, LA Br. 932 John A. Hornick Southwest Missouri Br. 366 David W. Mason Portland, OR Br. 82 Raymond C. Paul Jr. Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Jimmy D. Howerton Southwest Missouri Br. 366 Jack S. Naganuma Portland, OR Br. 82 Frank D. Ryder Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Rex B. Jones Southwest Missouri Br. 366 Gary K. Peterson Portland, OR Br. 82 Gerald M. Smith Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Kenneth W. King Southwest Missouri Br. 366 James D. Schramm Portland, OR Br. 82 Thomas W. Smith Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Edward N. Schumaker Southwest Missouri Br. 366 Gary B. Weis Portland, OR Br. 82 Bascom W. Smith Jr. Alexandria, LA Br. 932 Harold D. Summerlin Southwest Missouri Br. 366 Robert J. Benz Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Eldon A. Akerley Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Gary A. Vickers Southwest Missouri Br. 366 Richard F. Boss Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Charles C. Alexander Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Gale L. Wade Southwest Missouri Br. 366 James E. Haas Springfield, MO Br. 203 Anthony J. Canavan Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Gary O. Berman Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Robert L. Cassel Baltimore, MD Br. 176 John R. McGaughey Springfield, MO Br. 203 Leonard C. Cichowski Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Philip L. Cox Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Leo L. Nelson Springfield, MO Br. 203 E. B. Clark Jr. Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Donald W. Edgar Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Ray N. Smith Springfield, MO Br. 203 Edward L. Cygnarowicz Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Gerald D. Eldridge Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Frank L. Seboria Somerville, NJ Br. 768 C. A. Dedes Jr. Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Mack Flood Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Allan J. Nies Westfield, NJ Br. 1492 Tom B. Kaylor Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Charles E. Greever Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Thomas R. Smargiassi Jr. Westfield, NJ Br. 1492 John C. Kreuzer Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Edward J. Hollenshade Jr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Pauline R. Clifton Artesia, NM Br. 3703 R. J. Molinaro Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 James L. Jiggetts Sr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 M. L. Molyneaux Artesia, NM Br. 3703 Joseph Nagy Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Berkley L. Knight Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Curtis R. Teel Artesia, NM Br. 3703 R. E. Nolla Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 James E. MacNamara Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Ronald A. Priester Albany, NY Br. 29 Paul Pribik Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 George E. Merritt Baltimore, MD Br. 176 John P. Walsh Albany, NY Br. 29 Raymond C. Schnupp Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Edward Oliver Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Frank C. Arena Brooklyn, NY Br. 41 C. F. Talarico Pittsburgh, PA Br. 84 Edwin E. Rust Jr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 John P. Tanico Brooklyn, NY Br. 41 Elton S. Werkheiser Jr. Allentown, PA Br. 274 William H. Snowden Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Howard E. Seaman Long Island Mgd., NY Br. 6000 William E. Trivett Bristol, TN Br. 807 Delfield F. Yoes Jr. Baltimore, MD Br. 176 Richard W. Straub Long Island Mgd., NY Br. 6000 Robert C. Cypher Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Santo Colucci Western MA Br. 46 Bruce O. Buschini Westchester Mgd., NY Br. 693 Robert M. Faelak Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Elliott N. Levin Western MA Br. 46 Ronald Rowan Akron, OH Br. 148 Jerome C. Flayter Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Dominic N. Mastroianni Jr. Western MA Br. 46 Robert L. McVey Elyria, OH Br. 196 Richard G. Thivierge Western MA Br. 46 Marvin B. Fry Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Michael A. Pileski Elyria, OH Br. 196 Phillip J. Cannell Worcester, MA Br. 12 Lawrence C. Kowalski Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Donald R. Davis Portland, OR Br. 82 Lawrence H. Foisy Worcester, MA Br. 12 Robert J. Maule Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Melvin L. Fessler Portland, OR Br. 82 Robert C. Guenther Worcester, MA Br. 12 Gary C. Sneider Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Robert C. Granquist Portland, OR Br. 82 Warner R. Hill Worcester, MA Br. 12 Alan R. Tank Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Daniel O. Larson Portland, OR Br. 82 Allen B. Hilpertshauser Sheboygan, WI Br. 102 Paul E. Jaworski Worcester, MA Br. 12 Donald J. Leblanc Worcester, MA Br. 12 Rex R. Miner Portland, OR Br. 82 5o-year pins and gold cards Vincent J. Lombardozzi Worcester, MA Br. 12 James S. Nielsen Portland, OR Br. 82 James A. Monroe Worcester, MA Br. 12 David W. Smith Portland, OR Br. 82 Harold L. Brown Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Donald R. Parker Worcester, MA Br. 12 Paul D. Swick Portland, OR Br. 82 Peter L. Razo Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Mary E. Wells Ballwin, MO Br. 5050 John J. Mulasits Allentown, PA Br. 274 Leighanne E. Ridge Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Kennis H. Boclair St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Norman E. Knickrehm Mitchell, SD Br. 498 Frank W. Russell Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Eric W. Boyd St. Louis, MO Br. 343 William E. Trivett Bristol, TN Br. 807 Jimmy D. Viers Arizona Mgd. Br. 1902 Kenneth T. Brodtrick St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Glen C. McKell Salt Lake City, UT Br. 111 David J. Corona Central California Br. 231 Percy S. Childs Jr. St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Terry F. Bryan Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 Benny M. Flores Central California Br. 231 Samuel R. Cox St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Thomas G. McGinnis Milwaukee, WI Br. 2 R. K. Freeman Central California Br. 231 Vincent J. Galli St. Louis, MO Br. 343 Laird D. Schalla Milwaukee, WI Br. 2

54 The Postal Record June 2021 Nalcrest Update Nalcrest Update

From the Trustees waiting list to live at Nalcrest. Wishing all fathers a happy day on their spe- ay flowers are certainly on display with the cial day, and I hope that Memorial Day was re- fragrance of summer throughout Nalcrest. As M warding for all. you enter the parking area, you view the lagoons, boat docks and water features. The floral beauty of Matty Rose the rose garden is a lovely way to start your day. Touring the property, individual apartment dis- plays show the uniqueness of residents’ relation- Apply to live at Nalcrest ship with nature. When you get to the pool/spa For an application to live at Nalcrest, visit area and the Vincent R. Sombrotto sports complex, nalc.org/nalcrest, or call 863-696-1121. the flora and fauna is a tropical sight to see. Many COVID-19 restrictions for outdoor gath- erings have been lifted or modified to comply with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Nalcrest houses a fully staffed county para- Nalcrest Trustees medic and fire station on property, which has a new neighbor structure. It is the latest innova- tion to maintain the rapid technology demand. NALC President Fredric Rolando It is the Wi-Fi tower that provides Wi-Fi service NALC Secretary-Treasurer Nicole Rhine to all 500 apartments and other venues at no NALC Director of Retired Members Dan Toth cost to yearly residents and guests who rent our guests apartments. NALC Trustee Mike Gill Questions about Nalcrest? Call the office Nalcrest Trustees President Matty Rose Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Join us on our Facebook page, “Nalcrest Foundation Nalcrest Trustees Vice President Tom Young Inc.,” or go to nalc.org/nalcrest. Currently there Nalcrest Trustees Vice President Don Southern are more than 200 retired NALC members on the Nalcrest’s Wi-Fi tower Retiree Reports

Hartford, Connecticut ever, there are still federal and state lawsuits in Paterson, New Jersey Arizona, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Michigan in t iis good to see the new postal vehicles by the courts there. n reading the March edition of The Postal Re- Oshkosh Defense, which will begin delivery cord, specifically Director of City Deliver Chris- I With the hot humid summer weather ap- I in 2023. They replace the aging LLV Grummans topher Jackson’s article, “Vehicle news and up- we have had for years. They will be electric and proaching, I hope the mask-wearing rule can be eased for carriers outside away from customers dates,” the United States Postal Service stands gasoline engines, with perhaps some hybrid to purchase approximately 3,392 Mercedes gas-electric vehicles in the future. Time will tell. when working in stifling humidity and heat this Metris right-hand vehicles in 2020, with an ad- Obviously it is great that they have air condition- summer. Polk County in Florida recently added a fire rescue unit across the street from Nalcrest. ing, for it can get hot in Florida, Arizona, Nevada Dogs can get irritable in this weather, mainly ditional 3,700 Metris vehicles in 2021. and in Connecticut as well. Transfers and retir- the dogs with thicker fur. I had a patron who had Why Mercedes Metris? Better questions to be ees from Connecticut tell me Florida, Nevada their shaggy sheepdog sheared like a sheep in answered would be: Are these vehicles made or and Arizona summers take some getting used to those stifling months. The dog looked hysterical manufactured in the United States by unionized when the carriers deliver mail or retire to those with its thick coat of fur sheared off. It did not worker—specifically the United Auto Workers? states. look like the same dog. Or why is the USPS not choosing American- It is good to see part-time flexible positions It is good to see our local letter carriers deliv- based companies and products? return to the carrier craft in the new contract. ering many more parcel post in great numbers Our commitment to this union is broad- Many carriers told me of their concerns for the than ever. Whenever I order an item online, I based, which is why we should concentrate on lack of benefits, etc., for the city carrier assis- insist that the company use the U.S. Postal Ser- choosing companies that support union work- tant positions. Our carriers delivered many mil- lions of mail-in ballots in the last presidential, vice for delivery of my orders. ers in order to protect and preserve a middle federal and state elections in November 2020. Have a glorious summer. class in this country. Good work, carriers, for such a fine job. How- Ed Mulrenan, Branch 86 Joseph Murone, Branch 120

June 2021 The Postal Record 55 Branch Items

cess. We usually hold an annual bowlathon to Albany, New York Boston, Massachusetts raise money for MDA, but of course, due to the ongratulations to John “PeeWee” Walsh and s of May 7, the Boston District has had more pandemic, we had to forgo this event last year. CRon Priester on receiving their gold cards Athan 1,260 positive cases of COVID-19 since Thanks to the tenacity and drive of our chap- honoring them for 50 years of NALC member- Oct. 1, 2020. Prior to Oct. 1, there were 256 posi- lain and director of welfare, Karen Dickerson, ship. PeeWee is a past president of the branch tive cases, for a total of 1,516 since the pandem- we didn’t miss a beat. Not only were we able to and was an RAA for many years. I worked with ic began. The weekly average is about 20 cases engage our members and hold a fun and com- PeeWee for many years, and he got me started per week, and there are days that we have no petitive event, we were also able to increase our as a branch officer, appointing me to sergeant- reported new cases. Management has stopped contribution to MDA. at-arms in 1998. Ron is also a past president in providing the union with a running total of cas- This was a four-day sale, and we were able Ravena prior to its merging with Albany. These es, so these numbers could be a little off. to keep track of everyone’s sales, which gave are two of the nicest people I know, and it is a Management has decided to start up route the sale a friendly competitive edge. I didn’t pleasure to have them as friends. Congratula- inspections in this branch starting May 8, even sell the most popcorn; that distinction went to tions to the Captain, Bill Dietz, on achieving 60 though all COVID-19 MOUs are still in effect Julie Thompson, our safety and compensation years in our union. It was a pleasure and always until June 4 (except the eight hours of CCA sick director. All I know is, we raised a lot of money quite humorous to work with Bill downtown. leave). Management has given ultimatums on for MDA and I sold more popcorn than my vice a co-op agreement without any negotiations, a Thanks to you all for your service, and again, president. It was a win-win! congratulations to you all! “my way or the highway” approach, which was I am once again sending out a message of Congratulations to Ron Sonnekalb on being presented to the carrier of Brookline, MA, and safety and well wishes to one of Camden’s shop converted to PTF in Latham. Congratulations to they voted 95 percent to refuse this co-op and stewards, Anthony Guddo. It seems like I was Geovanni Williams and Shawn Marano on be- to go under inspection rather than let manage- welcoming him home just last month. Anthony ing converted to full-time regular in Albany City. ment pick away at their routes. Good job; I’m is in the military reserves and has once again Good luck as you begin your career. not a fan of how co-ops are done in Boston. I been deployed. He said that someone has to Our branch offers our thoughts and prayers to am still in total disagreement that this has to be be the last one over there to make sure all the the family of our departed brother, Ed O’Brien, done now under these conditions and should lights are turned off when the rest of the military who recently passed away. Ed was a 73-year wait until the fall. We also have numerous member of our branch. He was always a joy to 204-b’s who are trying to come back to the craft personnel leave. talk with at our retiree brunch and he will be by improperly bidding on the district’s bid sheet So, once again, Anthony, keep your head missed. Rest in peace, brother. or calling me for instructions on how to return as down and return home safe and sound. Your brothers and sisters are here thinking about Jay Jackson, Branch 29 you, and your family is waiting for your safe re- turn. Anchorage, Alaska Chuck Goushian, Branch 540 ach week, I receive the FLASH Report from Emanagement. This report is like a report card Carmel, Indiana on how each unit within the district is perform- ing for the week, quarter and year-to-date (YTD). ur wonderful postmaster in Carmel has de- I was reviewing one of the line items labeled Ocided to retire and didn’t even come out and “Hours Per Route,” which provides the average make a rare appearance on the workroom floor amount of hours worked by each route. With and tell me. After our six-year toxic relationship, I more than half of the fiscal year gone, some of thought he would come up and give me a big hug the units have an “Hours Per Route” average of and say thanks for the memories. He was great more than 11 hours, with one unit at 11.75 hours. at one thing, and that was losing grievances and Well, management will say that those numbers putting money in pockets of letter carriers. He include the month of December, so that’s not made stops along his journey in Anderson and representative. The hours per route at the end of Brooklyn, NY Br. 41 honored John Tanico Lafayette, with Carmel being his final resting spot November were 13.60 hours. Yes, that’s correct, with a 50-year gold card. Pictured (l to before he departed the Postal Service. the routes were running longer than the current r) are Branch Secretary-Treasurer Edwin He was the reason for many grievances and average. The hours-per-route average at the end Pinero, Branch President John A. Cruz, payments to the union, where we bought things of December was 13.50 hours. It had actually de- Tanico and Branch Executive Vice Presi- in his honor and named them after him. I know creased by a small amount. dent Luther McCoy. in Anderson they bought a laptop and named One factor of why routes are running so long it “The Hammer” after him and his favorite say- is the terrible job that Operations Support has a craft employee. ing. In our branch, he paid so many compen- done with route inspections and adjustments. There have been no conversions in the satory remedies to the branch, we would say I’ve written before about how incompetent branch since March 27 and we have about our meal provided at every union meeting was the Alaska District Operations Support group 75 UARs in the district at this time. Staffing is sometimes in his honor after we would get the is, and now its own FLASH Report proves this. still an issue at just about every branch due to checks. Let’s just say he had a different inter- Nearly every route inspection and adjustment in COVID-19 issues, management’s inability to hire pretation on several provisions in the contract the last two years has been grieved. Most im- and maintain CCAs and carriers retiring in larger than NALC did. passes to arbitration from the Step B team are than usual numbers every month. Speaking of I heard him tell numerous carriers they needed due to the incompetent route inspections and retirements, congratulations go out to Judy Bar- to be at work and needed to have a backup plan adjustments. We have file cabinets overflowing rineau, Thomas Costigan, Judith “Judy” Dun- for their backup plan in cases of child care issues with cases waiting to be heard. And I’m sure it canson, Deborah Hannon, Anthony Matthews, or other issues preventing them from being at won’t take an arbitrator 11 hours to figure out Michael Paine, Leo Romero and Anthony “Tony” work. The irony is, he is spending several weeks what we already know. Postal math is not based Scrivano. Enjoy your well-deserved retirements! on sick leave before his actual retirement date. on facts, and that will be shown at the hearing. Jerry McCarthy, Branch 34 So once again, he subscribes to the theory, “Do While carriers are held accountable each and as I say and not as I do.” He boldly told me over every day, what are the chances the Operation and over that he would fire me and that he had Support managers will be held accountable for Camden, New Jersey Merged lawyers coming for me. Well, they can find me this tremendous waste of money? I’m sure you ur branch recently had an fundraiser for the still at work every day. Thanks for the memories. already know the answer. OMuscular Dystrophy Association. We had Knowledge is power! Jim Raymond, Branch 4319 an online popcorn sale and it was a huge suc- Ronnie Roush, Branch 888

56 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 us remain unprotected. A coincidence? I think Understand that I am not suggesting we “screw” Charlotte, North Carolina not! Likely as not, a new outbreak will ‘occur’ the Postal Service by working slower than nec- e here at Branch 545 would like to honor during the next election. They know Trump fol- essary. When you “run” a route, misdeliveries Wand wish all of the fathers in our branch lowers especially will be sitting ducks for infec- increase, safety issues become more of a prob- and around the country a happy Father’s Day. tion at our maskless mass rallies. Yes, it’s truly lem and customer service is negatively affected. We all know the sacrifices that you make and all diabolical!” A few years ago, I defended a carrier who twist- the time spent away from your families just to Mark Woodbury, Branch 2555 ed their ankle on the job. Management used provide them a good life. Thank you for the en- “working in haste” as the reason for discipline. ergy and dedication you put into being a good They want you to work in haste until you get in- role model for your children and the community, Emerald Coast, Florida jured while working in haste. for it does not go unnoticed. We appreciate you s we are entering the summer, I look back on For those who question the union, consider for getting up early every morning to see your what we as carriers have gone through since donating the back pay you will receive soon from kids off to school and finding the strength after A the pandemic, election cycle and the Christmas the newly negotiated contract. When you go to a long day at work to spend some quality time season. It has been a living hell. We survived it the doctor, take the difference between what with your kids when you get home. We hope all you pay and what the average person pays and you dads get some much-needed rest and relax- donate it. Take a day or two of annual leave and ation this Father’s Day, for we all know that you volunteer your time. Benefits, contractual pay truly earn it each and every single day. and the amount of leave are all things your union The union leadership would like to let every- has fought hard for you to receive. Management one know that we have officially started back did not just decide to give you excellent health with our in-person union meetings. We had our coverage, an actual living wage or a fair amount first meeting in April, and it was wonderful be- of leave. When you speak negatively about the ing able to see everyone again in person and union, you are speaking personally to the trainers, not have to look at each other through a com- stewards, union officials and union members who puter screen. We are holding our meetings the put in a lot of time and work hard for you. third Tuesday of every month for anyone who We hope to return to our annual picnic this is interested in attending, and we are continu- summer. Watch your mail for a postcard re- ing to work within the parameters established garding the time and place, as it is still unde- by our local government leaders in regard to termined. Monthly meetings are back on at the COVID-19. We look forward to seeing all of our Biltmore. Congratulations to Tim Haugrud on members who are able to make it out. Flushing, NY Br. 294 Branch Director of converting to regular. Our thoughts are with Justin Fraley, Branch 545 Retirees Clara Sarmiento (l) and Branch Dennis Zimdars with the recent passing of his President Tony Paolillo (r) presented a 50- significant other, Kathy. year gold card to Hubert Henkel. East Lansing, Michigan Brian Prisinzano, Branch 205 ike to get back to “normal” pre-COVID-19 all, and we accomplished our mission of making Lmail carrying anytime soon? With vaccina- sure the mail was delivered. We had to deal with Fresno, California tion rates falling sharply as half of Republicans heavy volumes, lack of vehicles, bang outs and ore than 42,000 postal employee injuries refuse to get the shot, it looks like we’ll be stuck mood changes, but we hung in there. are reported each year. More than $1 billion with COVID-19 for a long time. Biden’s appeals I have seen CCAs come and go. Those who M to science, morality, patriotism, self-preserva- have stayed have been very productive and is paid out in OWCP claims a year. Hot weather tion and duty have fallen on deaf ears; Republi- have helped tremendously. We have been is approaching. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion cans care about none of these. forced to train them differently due to COVID-19 will be on the rise. Avoid these by working at a So what appeal might work with these Fox guidelines where we cannot be in the same safe pace; it does not matter if your supervisor News-bred contrarians? How about a nice, juicy truck with them. In my area, there are no walk- does not like you taking longer. In the past, some conspiracy theory? Maybe it’s time to “let slip” ing routes, which makes it difficult for us to see letter carriers have been ordered to complete the the notion that this anti-vaccine response by Re- what they are doing, but we are getting there. route after reporting they are feeling sick out in publicans was the sneaky liberal plan all along. Due the all of the pressure we are facing, it the heat. Management tells you to drink plenty of Suppose liberals had only pretended to want has had a barrier on attitudes. We are all under fluids. That alone will not always stop heat stroke conservatives to vaccinate, knowing full well a lot of pressure, but it not a reason to be disre- or heat exhaustion. They tell you from an air con- that Trump followers would react in knee-jerk spectful to your fellow carriers, or management, ditioned office or car. They do not care. I know by opposition? for that fact. I hear a lot of griping about what experience. Feeling light-headed or nauseated The conservative response is likely to be some are having to do, while other are doing are clear signs that not all is well with you. Some something like this: much less. I hate to say this, but that is not our letter carriers in the past have died on routes in “Diabolical! There’s no other word to de- concern. Management must do its job; we are the heat. Some in management are more likely scribe what liberals have done. By their unwav- not going to do it for them. We will put paper to get mad that a route is down, rather than be ering support for the COVID-19 vaccine, they’ve on them for not doing theirs, believe that. We concerned about the employee. You can provide managed to convince conservatives that it’s a as a team will get through this. We need more good mail delivery service and work safely at the bad thing. And I’m certain that was their intent employees, not fewer; we need more vehicles same time. So what if management gets mad all along. It’s the old reverse-psychology ruse. for the CCAs to assist us. How about we work because you take longer in severe heat? It’s your Clever, I’ll admit, but I’m on to them. And, the as a team and not as a divided group? It will get well-being over their hours. more they prattle on about getting vaccinated better, I hope. By the way, if you do suffer from heat stroke for ‘the good of humanity’ and ‘helping oth- The branch wants to send our condolences to on the route, you can file an OWCP claim. Notify ers,’ the more they knew Trump followers would Lee Ward’s family on Lee’s passing. your shop steward or union office. Heat stroke reject the vaccine. They’ve politicized vaccina- Percy Smith Jr., Branch 4559 often takes more than one day to recover from. tion! And why? It’s a diabolical scheme to gain It can have long-lasting effects on your body. power by systematically reducing the conserva- Sitting behind a desk is not the same as walking tive voting population. It’s obvious now that the Fargo-West Fargo, North Dakota with a heavy satchel on your shoulder for six- vaccine works and they want to keep the benefit hile home having to quarantine, I learned plus hours in extreme heat. But it is up to you to themselves. I wouldn’t be surprised if a new, Wthat yet again there was a discussion re- to place your well-being before management’s deadlier ‘variant’ appears once their voting garding the importance of the union. It has hours. It’s not like you are enjoying the heat. population is all safely vaccinated while half of been said that I advise carriers to slow down. Jesse Dominguez, Branch 231

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 57 Branch Items

Garden Grove, California employees for at least 50 years. Or put another else assume the secretary-treasurer position. way, the bill fabricated a debt that did not exist. He is still a steward in Enfield, and he still trains t is with great sadness that we inform you that After being hammered by the Great Recession, at the academy. Mike honored himself with his our brother in service, George Heim, passed I the internet, and now a worldwide pandemic, stellar performance as our secretary-treasurer away after a long battle with cancer. this invented obligation alone is still respon- with his attention to detail and his unflappable George was first certi- sible for 75 percent of the $160.9 billion in debt fied as a Branch 1100 shop personality! He was great with the numbers and the Postal Service carries. great with computers, both in the office and out steward in 1986 and was a The good news is that there is now bipartisan in the field, keeping our stewards’ computers wonderful advocate for the support in a bill to eliminate this obligation. We up and running. I know everyone joins me in union. While he retired from have never been closer to the repeal of this re- wishing the very best to a good union man and the Postal Service in 2012, quirement as we are now. The USPS Fairness Act he continued to passionate- repeals the requirement that the USPS annually a better friend! ly protect the rights of letter prepay future retirement health benefits. In the David Rooks from our Bristol office has carriers till the end. George Heim House, it is known as H.R. 695 and has enough agreed to take on the secretary-treasurer po- Brother George will always sition for the balance of this term. Dave has remain in all our hearts; we will all miss a re- co-sponsors to pass. In the Senate, it is known as S. 145 and at the writing of this article only jumped right in, putting in long hours to set up markable human being. Join us in keeping our the office and learn all of the particulars. Also thoughts and prayers with his family. has 10 co-sponsors. Please take a few minutes and call the congressional switchboard at 202- from the Bristol Post Office, Paul Norton has ac- Keisha Lewis, Branch 1100 224-3121. You will be connected with your sena- cepted the director of city delivery position, re- tors’ offices, where you can to let your senators placing Rooks, and he also has been busy with Greensboro, North Carolina know how important this bill is to the future of our monthly steward trainings. obert “Bob” Way passed away on Sunday, the Postal Service. Finally, our steward elections have been RApril 25, in Greensboro at the age of 83. Due to the pandemic, Branch 443 again had completed, and we can thank Paul Norton and Born and raised in Pottstown, PA, Bob had a to cancel its annual bowlathon that benefits the Bristol’s Roger Carrier for going office to office lifetime of hard work and many varied experi- Muscular Dystrophy Association. In its place, to get this done. ences from working at a dairy farm in his youth we ran a donor drive that helped us to raise just Michael L. Willadsen, Branch 86 to Army helicopter crew chief to long years as a more than $5,100. I would like to thank John letter carrier in his wife’s hometown of Greens- Russell and James Gelwicks for their efforts in boro, where they raised their two children. this drive. I would also like to give a special Kansas City, Missouri Though he never sought the limelight, Bob thanks to APWU Local 2574 for its generous con- nfortunately, PMG NoJoy was not replaced was an invaluable member of Branch 630. tribution to our drive. Uwithin President Biden’s first 100 days. Yet, For example: As one of many southern NALC Larry Wellborn, Branch 443 branches that was “whites only,” Bob submit- if change in the Postal Service is normally im- ted the application of the first African American mediate, erratic and chaotic, political change carrier in Greensboro to be accepted into the takes a minute or two, depending on who’s call- branch, effectively ending its racial exclusion. ing the shots. Though I’m extremely optimistic, When I was branch president, Bob was the only it seems the psychological high I was cruising shop steward in any station or zone to have 100 on from last year’s victory is beginning to dim. percent membership. Clearly, this reflected the Deep down inside, I thought all carriers would deep respect in which he was held by his fel- take advantage of the push we got from the pub- low carriers, for he considered them all to be lic to create a stronger, more vibrant union. Still, deserving of respect and dignity, and fought for too many haven’t realized what it means to wear workplace justice. Finally, approaching retire- postal blue or represent NALC. ment, Bob envisioned volunteering regularly The Goose Hill community, East St. Louis, IL to assist me at our branch union hall. Unfortu- nately, we were unable to make that happen. In- Hagerstown, MD Br. 443 presented past Branch 319, served by “Roscoe” was the epit- stead, branch leadership moved in the direction branch president Dave Ward with a 50- ome of mutual dignity and respect. It serves as of having all union work paid and the volunteer year gold card. Pictured (l to r): Region 13 the standard of my actions today. So, it saddens spirit at the heart of unionism was weakened. RAA Tonya Detrick, Ward and past branch me to hear from our customers about shoddy Our branch meetings have always begun with presidents Julie Mitchell and Ronda Sisk. service. It seems as though a career with the a moment of silence or prayer. In recent years, USPS is now in the same category as Manpower after a sectarian Christian prayer is expressed, or any other temp service. Over the past year, I am given the floor to encourage all other non- East Hartford, Connecticut carriers have successfully accomplished what Christian members like me to fully participate ollowing a terrible tragedy in Branch 86’s management has attempted to do for so long… in our membership meeting and our union. At Fhistory in August 2019, the need to fill our pit carrier against carrier. Just as there seems to Bob Way’s memorial service, both speakers, his secretary-treasurer position became a necessity be a slush fund for Article 8 grievances, man- daughter and his wife’s Baptist minister, shared even while emotions were still running deep. agement seems to be willing to overlook one that Bob was of Jewish heritage. Bob Way cer- Michael Mezzanotte was, at the time, our stew- problem to create another by overworking those tainly gave us a fine example to follow. ard in Enfield, CT, along with being an instructor In unity— who actually accept the responsibility of being at the Carrier Academy in Chicopee, MA. Mike an NALC letter carrier. Hopefully, the fresh batch Richard A. Koritz, Branch 630 stepped right up and offered to fill the vacancy. of CCAs will not only grasp the importance of I appointed him, and President Rolando put what they are doing, but be both accountable him into the week-long Branch Officers Train- Hagerstown, Maryland ing set to begin about a week out. During the and responsible to their assigned unit and the ver since the Postal Accountability and first few months of his tenure, NALC Secretary- local branch. EEnhancement Act was signed into law by Treasurer Rhine and her staff patiently guided Big Brother will always play a role in the President George W. Bush on Dec. 20, 2006, him through the fiduciary minefield, and former USPS. However, what NALC does or doesn’t do the Postal Service has been hamstrung into Branch 86 Secretary-Treasurer Susan Ugone to be viable is only what matters. We are NALC; making payments for employees it has not even also assisted Mike. NALC is us. United we stand, divided we beg. In hired yet. The bill compelled the USPS to pay in Recently, because of family and personal con- solidarity. advance for retiree health benefits of all of its siderations, Mike has asked to have someone Calvin Davis, Branch 30

58 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 leave until you finish your route, there’s no one persevere with prayer and supplication as we Knoxville, Tennessee to carry it and your overtime.” The mail must be patiently await better days. ello, brothers and sisters. delivered, and numbers will be met at all costs. Let us strengthen one another through our H The next couple of years are going to be Too many managers, supervisors and 204-b’s meeting attendance. We also have an upcom- very trying for the Postal Service, NALC and all are concerned with one thing, and it’s not their ing state convention next month, July 13 from unions, particularly with a party that wants to employees. Every decision is based on how our 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hope to see you there in the performance affects their numbers. They are Capital City. convinced our sole purpose is to “steal” time Continue to give LCPF! and lie to get out of work. Yours in unionism— Twenty-nine years ago, in 1992, the Postal Marshall Wayne Smith, Branch 124 Service and affiliated unions signed the Joint Statement on Violence and Behavior in the Workplace. It reaffirms the basic right of all Norristown, Pennsylvania employees to a safe and humane working en- o I went to a get an oil change at one of vironment. The document ends stating: “Our those quick oil change places, $19.95 and intention is to make the workroom floor a safer, S done in 20 minutes. Went to the counter and no more harmonious, as well as a more productive workplace. We pledge our efforts to these objec- one was in the waiting room, figured I’d be out tives.” in no time. The person at the counter said that Management has lost its way. Too many man- the price went up to $39.95 and it would take an agers are allowed to harass, intimidate, threat- hour. I looked around and said, “No one is here; NALC President Fredric Rolando (l) was why will it take so long?” welcomed to the Hartford, CT Branch 86 en and bully. They justify their actions because union office in Enfield by Branch Secre- “feelings aren’t contractual.” They are wrong. He said the big boss said that it was better to tary-Treasurer Michael Mezzanotte. The JSOV is a part of our contract. It specifically have less people doing more work and charge addresses the feelings caused by unacceptable more. In his mind, this was great. This was just be as obstructive as much as it can be. To com- stress, harassment and intimidation. showing how out of touch he was with customer pound the issue, we have a postmaster general Management’s deplorable behavior has re- service. This is fictional, but would you go to this whose views are in contravention of what we be- sulted in an unprecedented number of dignity, oil place? This is what our new PMG is doing— lieve in. So, the best thing we can do is to write respect and JSOV grievances. It’s time to revive slowing down the speed of the mail and trying to our members of Congress and let our voices and give teeth to the JSOV. This can only change to charge more for it. It’s the total opposite of be heard; united we stand, divided we fall. if we stand up for what is right and stand up for customer service, and asking carriers to do Cus- The NALC Legislative Department has a each other. We are Branch 9 strong. tomer Connect trying to sell a bad product. We method in place to make it easier for you to In solidarity— as carriers are salesman when we do our jobs contact your congressional representatives. Go JoAnn Gilbaugh, Branch 9 in the most professional way; we are selling to nalc.org and become a member by creating the product. But we can only deliver what we an account at the “Members Only” icon in the get from the truck, which gets it from the plant, upper right-hand corner. Afterward, click on New Orleans, Louisiana which gets it from another truck that drove from the “Government Affairs” icon. Click the “Con- t’s been a while since we have all been able to the airport or another plant. It’s a chain that tact Congress” section on the lower right side Iwalk about as if things were back to normal. should be strong and in unison with the gears of the screen. You will come to a “Legislator Hopefully, everyone is getting vaccinated so we Look Up” section. Enter your ZIP code, and the of productivity. The PMG is taking shots at that can reach herd immunity. We need to vaccinate chain and trying break it. Hopefully, we can get names of your senators and House representa- 75 percent of the population to reach herd im- tive will pop up. Along the right side is the part someone in place who cares about our custom- munity. Come on, America, let’s get immunized! ers. on contacting your congressional representa- This pandemic has taken a toll on the popula- tives. If you are already enrolled, you can enter And moving on, I have to give a shout-out to tion. Joblessness, homelessness, sicknesses, Joe Burke and Jim Bergstresser on their retire- the requested information and send messages and many people facing hunger. Let’s keep ments. Joe was famous for his love of T-6’s and to your elected representative. Easy peasy! If hope alive! rookies. Not enough room for what he would this is your first time, then you can create an We in the Postal Service have our dilemma, say. Enjoy it, guys—ya deserve it! account and send your message. After sending too. How do we get back to service standards your message, your email record will be deleted pre-DeJoy era? Mail being slowed, loss of equip- Joel Stimmler, Branch 542 to ensure your privacy. ment, mail sorting equipment removed from On another issue, all Tennessee state dele- many post offices, not to mention the $5 billion gates will have to be enrolled as members in or- burden put on the Postal Service. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania der to register at this year’s virtual state conven- Congrats to the CCAs on having an avenue for n Sunday, April 11, Branch 157 hosted a tion (June 13). As President Rolando has said, becoming career carriers by attaining PTF status OCOVID-19 immunization clinic. It was an “We need to remain focused on the long-term in time. extraordinarily successful event thanks to our objective of making our case before Congress I’ve been in too many meetings over Zoom. partners at the Philadelphia Central Labor Coun- and the Biden administration.” Let us focus on Now, finally, we can have upcoming meetings cil (AFL-CIO), Rite Aid and the NAACP. Overall, making them understand our goals. in person. Looking forward to it, but also with through our associates, we were able to vacci- Tony Rodriguez, Branch 419 social distancing and masking up. Although nate more than 350 postal employees. many have been vaccinated, there are still vari- Several weeks before the clinic, I spoke with ants of COVID-19 out there. Let’s be careful and the local president of the American Postal Work- Minneapolis, Minnesota follow the CDC recommendations. Let’s be safe, ers Union (APWU), Nick Casselli; the Eastern anagement has lost its humanity. Appar- America. Region vice president of the Mail Handlers, Mently, it is unforgivable for carriers to suffer In keeping in tune with the world’s current John Gibson; and Chuck Camp, president of the from medical ailments. Local station manage- events, accountability for George Perry Floyd’s APWU Local 7048. We agreed to work side by ment has come to believe that it is OK to deny murder at the hands of Derek Chauvin. The side in our efforts to obtain the vaccine. Eventu- time off for medical appointments, treatments federal Justice Department bringing charges of ally, I was able to acquire the shots, and offered and surgeries. Heaven forbid a personal emer- violating Mr. Floyd’s civil rights against all four it not only to letter carriers, but to our brothers gency arise during work hours. We rarely hear, officers on that eventful day. I’ll just say “ac- and sisters in the other crafts. “Go take care of your family; don’t worry, we’ll countability” for now; hopefully, justice won’t I would like to thank the following volunteers cover this.” Instead, we are told “you can’t be too far behind. We all just keep the faith and who played a vital role in helping us keep our

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 59 Branch Items

members safe: Joyce Rodgers, Branch 157 Auxil- ing last month and had a very interesting take- choice but to stay out or work limited hours to iary; Nancy Rollins, vice president, APWU Local away. In attendance was Pennsylvania AFL-CIO take care of health and family. Those who were 89; Denise Dedaro, administrative assistant, Secretary-Treasurer Frank Snyder. Beforehand, available or came back are putting in long hours Branch 157; Nick Casselli and John Gibson. I we discussed the unionization votes of both to get the mail delivered. Either way is a hard- want to give a special thanks to the following Amazon in Alabama and a local charter school ship, but we are an essential service to the pub- in which my sister was a part of the drive. lic, every day, 365 days of the year. Amazon employees overwhelmingly chose to The new contract, hard work by the Rolando continue defecating in bags and leaving them administration, has given the union many ways in vehicles while the school vote was the exact to advance our issues with cooperation if man- opposite. Both had excessive anti-union expen- agement wants it, also with the Democrats ditures and deployed right-to-work-style tac- in charge, the USPS office has the money for tics. Why the difference? The obvious answer is improvement. Vote responsibly; our future de- North versus South, I guess. pends on it. But it’s also about support to offset the anti- union effort, right? My sister’s group had worked Michael Breslin, Branch 396 closely with the PSEA, NEA and the NLRB. The latter was involved on behalf of Amazon em- Portland, Oregon ployees, but I doubt that the Retail, Wholesale Philadelphia, PA Br. 157 hosted a COVID-19 and Department Store Union (RWDSU) carries recently lost one of my favorite customers. His vaccination clinic. the clout of the educational unions. The compa- I name was Harry, and he was a retired letter ny brand was simply bigger and more visible... carrier. He had worked out of my office (he had Branch 157 members who assisted to make the not unlike USPS. the airport route), but he was gone before I ar- event a success: Marge McCann, Mary Brooke, The Postal Service released its Q1 2021 fi- rived, so I never worked with him. I knew him Jim O’Malley, Joe Adamski, Clay Smith, Steve nancials and, as earnestly as they tried to nega- strictly as my customer. I was always happy to Keppler, Joe Slusarczyk and Tom Filipone. We tively spin them, the numbers were very encour- see him out in the yard, and I always loved chat- could not have done it without you. Thank you! aging—all while dealing with absences due to ting with him. I could tell him the truth about In following the science and recommenda- generous COVID-related stimulus leave and the how my day was going, and he knew what I was tions from city and state health officials, it was added cost of supplying PPE to employees. So, talking about. Harry was very pro-union, and he necessary to stop all meetings usually held at what’s the takeaway? always had an anecdote for me from his years the branch. Our last general membership meet- Secretary-Treasurer Snyder made an ex- on the job. He was supportive and always a joy ing was on March 19, 2020. Since then, shop tremely poignant point during that Zoom call: to spend a few minutes of my day with. stewards’ meetings continued, but were virtual. “Just because your employer isn’t advertising Everyone who worked with Harry has a sto- It appears Philadelphia will be easing COVID-19 how many anti-union dollars they’re spending ry or two about him. Many are humorous, but occupancy restrictions soon. If so, we will re- doesn’t mean that they aren’t doing so,” and some of them aren’t good. Descriptions of him sume all meetings in June. Any such decision he’s spot on. USPS’s currency is headlines, and seem to range from “he was a character” to an will be shared with the members in advance. it spends them each quarter as dismally as pos- array of four-letter words. How could my delight- Brothers and sisters, stay healthy, stay safe sible, if not in between. Do your job. Earn your ful Harry have bad reviews from his co-workers? and get vaccinated! wage. Take your breaks. Management wouldn’t Maybe because he was kind of a different guy Joe Rodgers, Branch 157 have offered this contract if the financial situ- in his retirement. I found him to be intelligent, ation was dire. Give effort, but don’t give the thoughtful, funny and a great storyteller, while Phoenix, Arizona sweat of your brow for free because that’s how most of his fellow carriers remember him for you fight anti-union currency. putting his wet socks in the microwave in the ark your union calendars for the biggest, John Conger II, Branch 84 break room. Mbest, Arizona State Association of Letter I guess my point is that everyone deserves a Carriers convention at the Hilton Phoenix Re- second chance, and sometimes people change. sort at the Peak, 7677 N. 16 St., Phoenix, 800- Plainfield, New Jersey In the end, Harry wanted more years to spend 947-9784, $139 daily, three days before and wo longtime letter carrier officers working in his sun-drenched garden, but cancer robbed after convention. Thursday, Oct. 28, hospitality in the Plainfield Post Office are gone. Sadly, him of that pleasure. He was a mailman to the night; Friday, Oct. 29, opening ceremony; Sat- T trustee, former steward and friend Joe Cur- very end, and that is something we will all take urday, Oct. 30. Check the ASALC website, asalc. ham passed away suddenly. He will be sorely org, for the upcoming agenda. with us. Having been a letter carrier will be part missed. Longtime secretary, former vice presi- of what defines us, and we can all be proud of The Arizona legislative session is extended dent and friend Edward Gaub has retired and until June; I want everyone to call 877-405-6303 that. Use your time well! Dear Harry Miersma, moved out of state. Thus ended a Gaub in the rest in peace. to be connected to your state representative office from the 1940s, first father and former and 877-586-4895 to your Arizona state sena- branch president Edward Gaub, and then two Suzanne Miller, Branch 82 tor. Please ask them to vote no on the vote-by- sons, Ed and Gene—nine decades of Gaubs. mail bills SB 1713 (early ballot driver’s license), Ed became an official almost as soon as he Providence, Rhode Island and SB 1485 (purge PEVL), as well as any other began his career; a longhaired surfer from a voter suppression bills with numbers and lan- Florida university took a position in 1974 and ell, the writing of this article comes at a guage at press time! As I testified, this is not a stayed on until the term ended this year. Smart, Wdifficult time for me in particular as I’m Republican, Democratic or independent cause; a route protector, a letter carrier for more than nearing the last few days of my quarantine, as this is everyone protecting everyone. 45 years, a proper voter, defender of letter car- coronavirus has finally run through my house. Once again, the unfair vote-by-mail Arizona rier, a management handler, trouble enough to My wife tested positive first, and it was only a bills may change after press time; if they pass, you get disciplined, a stand-in for me, a family man matter of days before I started having symp- all have to call Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey at 602- and a friend. Best of all, he is staying involved. toms and tested positive myself. I don’t know 542-4331. Please ask him to veto! God willing. Retired former shop steward and MBA rep what’s worse, having the symptoms of this virus Jeff Clark, Branch 576 Darryl Hueston is on the long road to recover- and the fatigue that comes from it, or having ing from his illness. Please keep him in your two kids under the age of 3 stuck in the house thoughts. for weeks and having little opportunity for real Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania The year of COVID-19 has altered many ways rest. I can now sympathize a lot more with peo- had the opportunity to sit in on the Washing- the union has functioned, but we have survived ple who’ve had to deal with this exact situation I ton-Greene County Labor Council Zoom meet- and strengthened. Some members have had no over the past year.

60 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 Thanks to the safety measures in place at my a week later, we talked and she told me she Second: Rest. While you are entitled to a station, to my knowledge no one else showed wasn’t feeling well. On April 1, we received the 10-minute break on the street, in severe con- any symptoms or was required to quarantine. devastating news of her passing. ditions, this may not be adequate. If you feel Goes to show how important simple things like Vivian was currently working as a union ad- nauseous or lightheaded, get out of the heat physical distancing, mask-wearing and person- vocate for the Dispute Resolution Process. Be- immediately. al hygiene can be. Though it’s been kind of nice fore that, she was an alternate steward, then a Third: Shade. Seek shelter under a tree, or to have a couple of weeks away from work, albe- regular steward and then a chief shop steward even better, an air-conditioned building. If you it not feeling well, I’m looking forward to getting at Twinbrook Station and at the same time a need help, call your office for assistance or have back to seeing my co-workers and customers steward at our Potomac unit. She started at the someone do it for you. and back in the routine. Hopefully, as the vac- USPS in February of 1996 and had a route out of Veteran carriers need to look out for the new cination process ramps up, we will be back to the Potomac office. employees. Encourage them to take it easy and our monthly meetings in person soon, and I can Vivian was a very special union representa- build up their tolerance to working in the heat. bring you more specifics on the happenings of tive. She was always cheerful and kind, and A cool, damp towel draped around the neck Branch 15. wanted to help carriers in any way that she can substantially lower your body temperature. Anthony Turcotte, Branch 15 could. She knew the contract as well as anyone Walk in the shade of the trees if possible to re- and took great pleasure in winning grievances duce direct exposure to the sun. for letter carriers. While OSHA guidelines will help you, don’t Racine, Wisconsin Vivian is survived by her two daughters, expect your boss to care about you. Water, rest illie Nelson turned 88, still smoking weed granddaughter and her husband. We all loved and shade are your friends. Take care of your- Wand making music. Meanwhile, Santa’s lit- Vivian and will miss her dearly. self. tle misfit carriers can’t seem to “stop the clock” In the struggle— Tom Schulte, Branch 343 on business closed, forwarded mail, hold mail Kenneth Lerch, Branch 3825 and such, by postal proclamation herein known better as “STC.” You better believe district scan Saint Paul, Minnesota watchers have got their eyes on this stuff. If the St. Louis, Missouri hings are trending toward “normal” in the clock hasn’t been stopped for some reason, no- s we transition from the pleasant tempera- TTwin Cities from where we have been the for body goes home. All hands on deck. Pencils are Atures of the spring into the harsher condi- the last year: The Twins are having a rough first breaking, hair being pulled out, coffee splashed tions of the summer heat, it’s important to re- month, the Wild are gearing up to break fans’ around while the ergonomic chairs are crashing member some fundamental precautions to take hearts after looking a little too good during the into each other. So for crying out loud, stop the to deal with heat exposure and heat stroke. season, and we have been promised a Minne- clock! Every year, dozens of workers die and thou- sota state fair in August. Hopefully, things will Used to be a time when stopping the clock sands more become ill while working in extreme stick on this track. meant writing “Business Closed” or “Customer heat and humidity. There are a range of heat ill- While there may not have been a food drive Hold” on the parcel. Guess what? The Postal nesses that can affect anyone, regardless of age this year, both the Branch 28 picnic (Aug. 1) and Service survived. Technology is great and neces- or physical condition. the retirees’ dinner (Sept. 19) are a full “go” for sary in today’s modern world. Sometimes that Under OSHA law, employers are responsible later this summer, so get these dates on your technology can be an unmerciful and remorse- for providing workplaces free of known safety calendar. General membership meetings (third less competitor to an otherwise fairly simple hazards. This includes protecting workers from Thursday of the month) also look to be about job. extreme heat. An employer with workers ex- ready for in-person attendance, though there Our station manager congratulated us for posed to higher temperatures should establish will still be a remote Zoom option for the fore- doing our part getting our (management’s) a complete heat illness prevention program and seeable future. numbers under control. 4-Mile Station has long should encourage all of their employees to ob- Brothers and sisters, get out there and enjoy been a sore spot for the district. There is a long serve these fundamental guidelines. this summer. It has been a long time coming. lineage of station managers who use 4-Mile as First: Drink plenty of water. Soft drinks and Just remember to stay safe on the roads. Plenty coffee are considered diuretics and as such can of folks haven’t been out delivering through this a stepping stone to other greatness or to wait it have dehydrating effects on the body. Ditch the whole pandemic like we have, and it seems like out until retirement. colas and coffee and stick with water. quite a few of them have forgotten how to drive. We’re not praying for a miracle around here. We never really asked to get bailed out. We just want to be left out of the drama. We simply ac- cept our dubious status in the district, and have come to terms with this reality. #occupyingth- COLA: Cost-of-living adjustment ebottom does have some perks. We’re not vain. Nobody expects anything of us. We can only go up. When the “we did something right” needle tt Following the release of the April System (FERS), which are based on does budge in an upward trajectory, it’s a joy- consumer price index (CPI), the the CPI’s increase between the third ous cause for celebration. That is, until we fail to fourth cost-of-living adjustment quarter of 2020 and third quarter of stop the clock (STC). Then right back to Square (COLA) under the 2019-2023 National 2021, is 3.1 percent and will be final- One. Been there; done that. Agreement is projected to be $915 ized with the publication of the Sep- Chris Paige, Branch 436 annually. This COLA is based tember 2021 CPI in October 2021. on the change in the CPI from Rockville, Maryland the base index month to July tt The 2022 projected COLA under the 2021, with the previous three Federal Employees’ Compensation Act e were informed on April 1 of the horrible COLAs subtracted. The previous three (FECA) is 2.8 percent following the Wnews of the passing of Vivian Walker after COLAs will be paid retroactively to release of the April CPI. This COLA is a long bout with an illness. Just three weeks based on the change in the CPI be- before, Vivian called me and told me that she their contractual effective dates. tween December 2020 and December was going to retire in two years and asked if she t The 2022 projected COLAs for the Civil t 2021. could work for our branch by writing contentions Service Retirement System (CSRS) and for our grievances. I was excited about this, be- the Federal Employees Retirement Visit nalc.org for the latest updates. cause her writing skills were superb. She was doing well and her voice sounded strong. Then,

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 61 Branch Items

Even though the pavement may be dry, prob- Summer is approaching, so hydrate and take Oversight Committee was deemed incompe- ably best to treat other drivers like it is the first all necessary comfort breaks! tent. day of snow for a while. Jim Ruetze, Branch 421 USPIS needs to be on the chopping block I look forward to seeing you all in person first, even before management. It is a redun- again. dant entity that wants to be Big Brother and has Colin Walker, Branch 28 Seattle, Washington very little to do with protecting employees or ’m here to get rid of the dead wood.” Arro- the sanctity of mail. Let the DEA handle drugs, “Igance and incompetence—always a dan- OIG handle fraud and law enforcement handle San Antonio, Texas gerous combination, and is most always what the rest. USPS cannot afford USPIS, especially reetings from the Alamo City. The ice storm walks through the door when a new manager while rushing to implement degradations of Gthat swept through the country in February comes on board. This particular “new” man- customer service. Get these people from behind crippled Texas, causing scores of letter carriers ager evidently thought that hubris and intimi- the computer monitors and into essential posi- tions. to miss work. By any logical definition, includ- dation were his ticket to going places. ing that found in ELM 519.2, the storm was a So this particular clown had landed in our Lee Taylor, Branch 2611 community disaster. Dispatch trucks were un- station looking to throw his weight around, and able to navigate the icy roads, so many offices admittedly, he did have a pretty good start on South Jersey, New Jersey had no mail. Unsurprisingly, management at the the rest of us. I assumed that by “dead wood” highest levels adopted a strategy of refusing to he meant non-productive personnel; those t’s official! Thanks to the unanimous vote pay administrative leave for absences caused people who weren’t carrying their weight, as it Iof the membership at the April 21 general by the storm. Grievances have poured into the were. But for an employee who carried at most a membership meeting, and the approval of our clipboard and packet of pencils, he had little to national union, Branch 908 will now be called Step B office in San Antonio protesting manage- nothing to grouse about. And if he was looking the Bill Revak Branch 908, South Jersey Letter ment’s irrational blanket denial of administra- to find anyone in particular, all he really needed Carriers, NALC. This is a proud moment for our tive leave. Also unsurprisingly, management’s was a mirror and he could have easily discov- branch, as this will cement the legacy of our Step B reps are goose-stepping right along, re- ered the biggest snag in the office. brother and founder. It was nice to hear from solving only those grievances the union agrees Here’s a tip for anyone searching for non- so many of those retirees who were all for this do not show a violation (the ones with no car- workers in any installation, it’s pretty easy—just name addition, as they all said to me that Bill rier statements). In all other cases, they say that look for those umbilically attached to their stat really deserved this recognition for all the time since the office was open, no administrative sheets. Arrogance—it’s practically a requisite and hard work he put in to start this branch, as leave is payable and it isn’t the Postal Service’s for passing the postal management exam. well as keeping it going strong for all the years problem these carriers chose to live where they You can almost hear the panel mulling things since he stepped aside as branch leader. did. Disgraceful. over, “There’s something missing. They’re lack- I know there are many new members who There is, however, a silver lining! The cases ing that certain je ne sais quoi.” “Arrogance?” won’t ever understand why we did this, but trust that contain meaningful contentions from the “That’s it! This person will never succeed with- me when I say this, Bill was the reason this local Formal A manager reveal a superhuman effort out being cocksure, even when they’re dead has gotten the respect from our leaders in DC to identify work the carriers could have done if wrong.” for all these years. I once again urge all current they had reported. Things like cleaning a ware- Don Nokes, Branch 79 members who aren’t really sure what this union house in another office or cleaning cases in is all about to go and watch the “Strike at 40” their own offices, or sitting in the break room video, which shows all of those brothers and for hours on end to make eight hours. Unset- Silver Spring, Maryland sisters who came before us to get us to where tling as it is that all this “cleaning” apparently have always found it difficult to justify the ex- we are today. Bill was one of those local guys isn’t being done normally, it warms the heart to I istence of the United States Postal Inspection who led the charge in our area, and gave up a lot know this same work will certainly be available Service (USPIS), except for the obvious comedic of his energy for all the members he was repre- for limited and light-duty carriers when the need purpose of its sarcastic acronym. Why does the senting. I am sure many of you know of some of arises. Hopefully the stewards in those offices Postal Service fund a redundant operation like those members who are still with us who were kept those contentions, on the off chance man- this? Is it fair that our employer pays what cor- part of that movement. I ask you to talk to those agement forgets and claims no work is available porations like UPS, FedEx, Amazon and others members and have them tell their story. My late for those employees. They wouldn’t do that get for free? If UPS suspects or discovers con- father was one of those on the line as a local though, would they? traband, who do they call? If a FedEx employee member of Branch 540, and I loved his stories. is accosted or robbed, who handles it? The Drug Take the time to ask. Enforcement Agency (DEA), the Federal Bureau Gary DiGiacomo, Branch 908 How to submit items of Investigation, Homeland Security and local law enforcement are all valid choices, depend- ranch presidents or their designated ing on the circumstance. We also have access to Southeast Pennsylvania Merged Bscribes may submit Branch Items to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG). on’t let them tell your story. Let’s talk CCAs. The Postal Record by mail at 100 Indiana When I contacted the OIG and USPIS con- DIt has been a struggle to train, retain and Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20001-2144; cerning fraudulent and illegal insurance scam develop our next group of letter carriers. In email at [email protected]; or fax at mailings being sent to employees at their work fact, the retention rate has fallen to 20 percent. 202-737-1540. The deadline is the 10th locations, the agencies pointed their fingers Some factors are that they are not interviewed of the preceding month, or if it falls on a at each other. These mailings obviously have anymore. They do not have to take the test. But weekend or holiday, 9 a.m. E.T. the first current participation from a postal insider pro- to give up on them would be criminal of us. They business day after. For the July issue, the viding unauthorized updated access to the em- represent us carriers. And if the more experi- deadline is Thursday, June 10. The NALC ployee database. Is USPIS actually concerned enced carriers don’t play more of a role in their Constitution limits items to 300 words. with protecting us? development, who knows where this company Photos should be in color; photos sent by Worse still is the newly outed USPIS iCOP will go. email should be at least 150 dpi resolu- (Internet Covert Operations Program), which is But I’m a glass-half-full type of person. And tion. Please identify every person in the being used to track (spy on) social media. The to that end, there are many CCAs out there car- photo. The Postal Record reserves the revelation of this secret program is an outright rying on our legacy. One such carrier is Cristine right not to print every photo received. embarrassment, especially to those actively Johnson from the Bala Post Office. She was go- Hard-copy photos will not be returned. engaged in legislative postal reform. The chief ing to be let go by her previous office for being postal inspector’s testimony before the House “slow.” So, her trainer at the carrier academy

62 The Postal Record June 2021 June 2021 (Beth Lloyd) talked to President Dillman about in the year, and a week later, we set a record been privileged to testify in arbitrations advo- facilitating another chance for her. Les Dillman high temperature of 88 degrees. Those two ex- cated by three of these RAAs: Calvin Brookins, has given many other carriers second chances tremes are not our normal spring. Jeff Frazee and James Henry. Although they ad- by facilitating transfers. Sometimes it works We are slowly getting back to some sense vocate their cases with different styles and de- out, sometimes it doesn’t. But as of this writing, of normal with our Formal A reps returning to meanors, they all have one thing in common— things are going well for Cristine at Bala. the hall. There appears to be some movement they come well-prepared and present their On March 30, Cristine witnessed an accident from Labor Relations on the large backlog of cases in a cool, calm and collected manner, on the route she was delivering. Upon arriving, grievances. It could just turn out to be wishful often with victorious results. Although I have she discovered a man unconscious. But she thinking. not yet seen Allan Rios in action as an arbitra- was the only one to respond. She called 911 tion advocate, I have heard he is an excellent and stayed until an ambulance arrived. The wife one with a good record in arbitration like his wrote a letter to the postmaster and stated that counterparts. NBA Almario is blessed having Cristine’s actions saved his life. such a great staff, and we can all rest assured So, call her “slow” or whatever you want. But knowing Region 1 is in good hands. A million be sure to call her a hero as well. And she is one thanks to all of you. example of many. Silly management will never Congratulations to the 93 Branch 2902 CCAs get out of the mentality that we all have to be converted to career status as PTFs on May 8. Al- fast. The same haste causes more mistakes and though the life of a PTF is not perfect, at least as only serves to negate our image as postal em- career letter carriers they can finally enjoy some ployees. of the benefits that have been lacking during Eric Jackson, Branch 725 their years as CCAs. Thankfully, our new contract has eliminated the provision prohibiting newly Springfield, Ohio converted carriers from using annual leave for 90 days after conversion. If patience is a virtue, bligation—“A course of action to which a you long-suffering CCAs are all virtuous. person is bound by a promise or vow.” O Ray Hill, Branch 2902 Responsibility—“Being accountable for Fort Collins, CO Br. 849 member Roger something within one’s management.” Cogburn was honored with a 60-year pin, Every quarter we have the right to sign the along with a letter from NALC President Western Massachusetts overtime desired list (ODL), choosing the over- Fredric V. Rolando. time we want to work—no overtime, overtime on he recent restructuring changes to the USPS introduced by PMG DeJoy are in the opinion route only, 10, or 12 hours in a day. Once you Hiring of new employees continues to move T of many folks, myself included, designed to choose, you have obligated yourself to work at a snail’s pace. Mail processing has improved erode confidence in the USPS and will chase whichever list you signed. somewhat. It’s almost comical that the Postal Management is responsible to make every Service is running a new commercial touting mail volume and revenue away from the USPS. effort to adhere to our chosen obligation by fol- overnight and two-day priority shipping. DeJoy wants to slow down first-class mail and lowing Article 8 of our National Agreement. We are moving forward with plans for our charge more for it. Increasing prices while de- The problem is that management plays fa- Charles Cohen Golf Scrambles for MDA. We have creasing service and reliability is a recipe for vorites by allowing some carriers to refuse the scheduled the tournament for the last Sunday in disaster in any business—ours included. overtime that they are entitled and obligated June at the Chippewa Golf Club. One of the constants over the years has been to perform. And when that occurs, carriers who The Ohio State Association convention is the public’s confidence in our ability to deliver don’t want overtime are ordered to work over- scheduled for July 22-25 in downtown Cleve- for the American people in a timely and reliable time while the overtime carrier is not. So, how land. manner. Anyone reading this knows that service can an overtime carrier refuse overtime while a The Ohio State Legislative Conference will be has fallen off the cliff since DeJoy was hired. non-overtime carrier cannot? held in Washington, DC, Sept. 29-30. With the “restructuring,” DeJoy is consolidat- The answer is, they can’t. Article 8 explicitly With the pandemic curtailing almost all ing authority and decision-making in the hands states that all ODL carriers must work 12 hours branch activities, we have found the organiza- of a small number of people at headquarters. before any non-ODL carrier is utilized off their tion to be in a substantially strong financial situ- Dissent, second guessing and legitimate ask- route for overtime. Period. ation. The executive committee decided to pay ing of questions, anemic now under feeble and The bottom line is that if you are making plans off the mortgage, which reduced active mem- myopic management will be non-existent. Or- for a weekend getaway or there is an event you bers’ dues by a dollar. ders and directives are likely to emanate out of would like to attend on your day off, you should Hopefully, as the pandemic recedes, we can L’Enfant Plaza that are harmful to the long-term seriously consider getting off the overtime list. have a mortgage-burning celebration at the fully future of the USPS and will blindly be carried Management has the responsibility to order paid-for union hall. out by clueless underlings. Does anyone think a you to work in lieu of a carrier not on the list. Ray Bricker, Branch 100 6 p.m. guarantee time is a good for our over- Your union has the responsibility to protect night business? Or if you can’t attain your ser- all carriers by following the contract for both vice standards, just lower them. overtime and non-overtime carriers and will Tri-Valley, California hold management responsible by filing griev- Prior to the restructuring, I was on a tele- oday I write to sing the praises of four of com with other union officials and district EAS ances for violations. Choose your obligations NALC’s unsung heroes, the regional ad- wisely. T personnel when the acting district manager ministrative assistants (RAAs) to our national informed us that the plant no longer reported Branch meetings are the second Thursday business agent (NBA). NALC’s Region 1 covers to her and was not accountable to the district. of each month in Room 221. Pizza at 6:15 p.m. an immense geographical area, representing That’s being centralized in DC. We all know that Meeting at 6:30 p.m. Show up. Listen. Ask ques- letter carriers in California, Nevada, Hawaii our No. 1 problem is the failure of the plants to tions. Knowledge is power. and Guam. NBA Bryant Almario relies on his get the mail to carrier stations in a timely and Brian Gourilis, Branch 45 top-notch staff of RAAs to keep the wheels of Region 1 spinning smoothly. These four RAAs reliable manner. Predictably, that’s going to get are, in alphabetical order: Calvin Brookins, Jeff worse than it already is—if that’s possible. But Toledo, Ohio Frazee, James Henry and Allan Rios. All of them hey—if you want to break the Post Office, start t’s been a strange spring in northwest Ohio. have been extremely helpful to me during my by breaking the plants. IOne day we have a record snowfall for this late four years as president of our branch. I have Michael Harazmus, Branch 46

June 2021 June 2021 The Postal Record 63 Auxiliary Update

National Auxiliary News and updates Board from the officers

Cynthia Martinez Crystal Bragg Linda Davis Pam Fore Vice President Secretary Asst. Secretary Treasurer Cythensis Lang President From the Auxiliary Board Aux. #313 Sallee Butzow Aux. #313 Stan Butzow reetings, union brothers and sisters. This Aux. #153 Norma Farris NALCA First Quarter Gmonth, we continue to celebrate 116 years Aux. #153 Tamme King of partnership with NALC. Aux. #153 Susan McKee Financial Report In May, we listed many of our 50-plus-year Aux. #153 Brent Phillips members of the National Auxiliary, as well as Aux. #153 Angela Wheeler the years of service of your national board mem- The following report shows bers. Louisiana This month, we will list more of our members, Aux. #1223 Joyce Hickman financial transactions from Jan. 1 ranging from two years to 51 years of member- Aux. #1223 Patricia LaCaze through March 31, 2021. ship. An asterisk denotes more than 50 years of Virginia membership. Balance 1/1/21 $3,403.40 Aux. #1200 Jean Gaskin Deposits 5,440.00 The NALCA Board Aux. #1200 Patricia Holman Aux. #1200 Almatime Jackson Total $ 8,843.40 116 years of partnership Aux. #1200 Marlene Little Expenditures with NALC Aux. #1200 Peggy Winston Tax - FUTA 488.40 Texas 2021-22 bond insurance 339.00 Arizona Aux. #123 Burnie Miller Tax prep/tax return fees 130.00 Aux. #377 Chaeli Hoehn Aux. #1974 June Back* Postage and supplies 202.87 Aux. #377 Steven Martinez Wisconsin Total disbursements $1,160.27 Illinois Aux. #436 Jackie Adams Aux. #21 Ursula Bahlow Aux. #436 James Kirby Balance 3/31/21 $7,683.13 Aux. #21 Patsy Canavan Aux. #436 Linda Kirby Aux. #153 Chris Barteck Aux. #436 Ed Salo Submitted by Pamela Fore, Treasurer Aux. #153 Kathy Barteck Aux. #436 Suzette Salo

AUXILIARY OFFICERS Include me in the fight for letter carrier rights Cythensis Lang Cynthia Martinez President Vice President 319 Chelsea Court 3532 W. Mauna Loa Lane Sign me up as an Auxiliary member! Satsuma, AL 36572 Phoenix, AZ 85053 251-679-4052 602-843-8676 [email protected] [email protected] Branch No. ______Branch City ______Auxiliary No. ______Name______Phone No. (____)______Crystal Bragg Linda Davis Secretary Assistant Secretary Address ______835 Westland Drive 620 S. 70th Ave. Mt. Zion IL 62549 Yakima, WA 98908 City ______State ______ZIP______217-864-4684 509-969-1334 cbragg5414@ lindadyakima@ I am a family member of NALC member ______of Branch ______comcast.net gmail.com

Pam Fore Return form with membership fee of $20 to a local Auxiliary member or mail to: Treasurer NALC Auxiliary 3618 Hileman Drive S. Crystal Bragg, Secretary Lakeland, FL 33810 835 Westland Drive 863-853-2113 Mt. Zion, IL 62549 [email protected]

64 The Postal Record June 2021

June 2021 The Postal Record PB

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Mutual Exchanges

AZ: Phoenix (9/00) to San Diego, city. Plenty of OT available. Looking time, if wanted. Northside of Chicago. 15 NY: Long Island (10/13) to East or West North County area in California. Seek- to swap due to family reasons. Trinh, minutes from downtown. Great routes. Coast areas of Florida. Plenty of OT. ing mutual exchange with another city 303-594-3814. Tanny, 773-742-1197 (text or call) or Close to Queens and the Bronx. Carolina, letter carrier. Looking to transfer ASAP. FL: Fort Lauderdale (6/93) to Lynchburg, [email protected]. 929-225-6335 or [email protected]. Robert, [email protected]. VA; Michigan City, IN or surrounding ar- MD: Annapolis (5/05) to Middle River, NY: Oakdale (5/99) to Apex, NC or CA: Stockton (5/04) to Sparks/Reno, eas. Large office with OT. John, 561-329- Dundalk or Towson, MD. Trying to get surrounding areas. Regular city car- NV or surrounding area. Stockton is 0944 or [email protected]. closer to home. May be open to other sur- riers only. Good office and area with located in the San Joaquin Valley. It is OT, if desired. Omar, 516-524-0179 FL: Pembroke Pines (7/05) to rounding offices. Quentin, 443-677-0697. centrally located: 2.5 hours to Tahoe, or [email protected]. Bethelem, Lawrenceville, Lilburn, 1.25 hours to San Francisco and 1.5 MA: Boston (1/17) to Miami, Hollywood, GA or surrounding areas. Five bidding RI: Newport (8/16) to Denver/Boulder, hours to Napa Valley. Lots of OT avail- Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Kissimmee, offices with OT. Great weather. Marsha, CO or surrounding suburbs. Carry in able. Monica, 209-327-8375 (text) or FL or surrounding areas. Large office in 954-548-6220 (text) or gw2success@ beautiful Newport, RI. Enjoy the island [email protected]. the city with lots of parking, two minutes life! High on the seniority list with a date gmail.com. away from public transportation. Lots of CO: Denver (5/05) to Orlando, FL or of 2016. Friendly place to be. OT avail- overtime if wanted.Need to move closer surrounding areas. More than 20 bid- IL: Chicago (9/93) to Denver, CO area able if desired. Brandon, 401-318-4386 to family. Christina, 857-301-6955 (text ding stations available in the metro and or Palm Sprlngs, CA. Uptown North- (text or call). or call) or [email protected]. surrounding areas. Small to large offic- side station. Great area. Citywide bid- TN: Kingsport (12/19) to Suncoast es to choose from. More than 300 days ding available. Scott, 612-298-2245. NV: Las Vegas (5/18) to NC or SC. District, FL. Large office with plenty of of sunshine, with all four seasons pres- IL: Chicago (9/93) to Fort Lauderdale, Regular carriers only. No state tax. OT. Good work environment with great ent. Regulars only. Friendly people and FL or surrounding areas. Regular carri- Large bidding area. John, 970-405- union/management rapport. Robert, a strong union. A growing and thriving ers only. Large office with lots of over- 9193 or [email protected]. 423-617-4327 or [email protected]. How to place a Mutual Exchange ad The cost of Mutual Exchange ads is $15 for up to 30 tify membership. Ads without endorsements will be e-mail addresses. words and $25 for 31-50 words per month. returned. Note: Specific route information or mention of three- Ads must be received by the 5th of the month Include your name, address and branch number. way transfers will not be published, nor any wording preceding the month in which the ad will appear, Ads must be received in the same format and wording that offers cash or property to facilitate an exchange. e.g., June’s deadline is for the July publication. Mail as they will appear in the magazine. Begin each ad Mutual exchanges must be approved by both post- ad with check (payable to NALC) to: Mutual Exchange with your state abbreviation, city and seniority date. masters involved. Seniority of carriers involved shall Ads, Postal Record, 100 Indiana Ave. NW, Washing- Ads should be typed in upper/lower case (or, if this be governed by Article 41, Sec. 2E of the National ton, DC 20001-2144. is not possible, printed clearly) on a full sheet of 8.5 x Agreement. Carriers may not exchange assignments, Ads are published for NALC members only. A 11” paper. Make certain the numerals 0 (zero) and 1 since vacated positions must be posted for bids in ac- branch officer or steward must endorse the ad to cer- (one) can be distinguished from the letters O and l in cordance with local and national agreements. In Memoriam NALC offers deepest sympathies to the families and friends of departed brothers and sisters La John W. Fannin Br. 576 Phoenix, AZ William F. Mulcahy Br. 4016 S. Suburban Mgd., IL Anthony Marino Br. 3 Buffalo-Western NY Robert D. Garrison Br. 576 Phoenix, AZ MCArthur Hayes Br. 580 Hammond, IN Mike J. Shannon Br. 3 Buffalo-Western NY James B. Wieand Br. 576 Phoenix, AZ Jack C. Shulse Br. 39 Indianapolis, IN J. Powder Br. 294 Flushing, NY Albert G. Cutruzzula Br. 231 Central California Eugene Tabb Br. 373 Cedar Rapids, IA Bryan K. Dottavi Br. 137 Hudson Valley Mgd., NY Samuel Castro Br. 1100 Garden Grove, CA Gerald G. Sealock Br. 314 Council Bluffs, IA Rebecca L. Santiago Br. 137 Hudson Valley Mgd., NY Pedro Larez Br. 1100 Garden Grove, CA Melvin D. Dale Br. 1018 Manhattan, KS Bernard Schwartz Br. 36 New York, NY Elizalde A. Quibuyen Br. 1100 Garden Grove, CA Donald M. Boresow Br. 5521 Shawnee Mission, KS Carol Litteral Br. 210 Rochester, NY Ian M. Roxas Br. 1100 Garden Grove, CA William D. Kraft Br. 5521 Shawnee Mission, KS Joseph P. Sheehan Br. 134 Syracuse, NY Stanley L. Wrazen Br. 1100 Garden Grove, CA Charles L. Tigerman Br. 5521 Shawnee Mission, KS Frank R. Tringali Br. 693 Westchester Mgd., NY Danny Thai Br. 1111 Greater E. Bay, CA Ronald T. Lee Br. 124 New Orleans, LA Alvin K. Robinson Br. 1512 Gastonia, NC Robert A. Wilson III Br. 1111 Greater E. Bay, CA Warren R. Gilman Br. 92 Maine Mgd. Douglas Bentley Br. 43 Cincinnati, OH Juan J. Fuentes Br. 2614 Hawthorne, CA Robert F. Perry Br. 92 Maine Mgd. James Baker Br. 78 Columbus, OH Milton Givens Br. 24 Los Angeles, CA Sae W. Park Br. 176 Baltimore, MD Richard W. Bell Br. 3688 Willoughby, OH William D. Morehouse Br. 133 Sacramento, CA L. C. Frey Jr. Br. 2961 Oakland, MD Samuel E. Fleming Br. 3688 Willoughby, OH Francisco T. Paiz Br. 133 Sacramento, CA Amanda Minkove Br. 2611 Silver Spring, MD Dennis E. Myers Jr. Br. 1358 Tulsa, OK Frank E. Rich Br. 411 San Bernardino, CA David G. Cullen Br. 34 Boston, MA Pamela E. Carter-Butler Br. 920 Bux-Mont, PA Richard J. Como Br. 70 San Diego, CA Paul D. Mccarthy Br. 34 Boston, MA James J. Dolan Br. 157 Philadelphia, PA Michael D. Macke Br. 70 San Diego, CA A. R. Sebring Jr. Br. 34 Boston, MA Harry J. Flomenberg Br. 157 Philadelphia, PA Glen G. Awai Br. 193 San Jose, CA Donald L. Talbot Br. 25 MA Northeast Mgd. John J. Sudyka Br. 157 Philadelphia, PA Edward L. Shockey Br. 193 San Jose, CA Kenneth V. Beitz Br. 256 Mid-Michigan Henry J. Marini Br. 84 Pittsburgh, PA Patricia C. Munayer Br. 1280 San Mateo, CA Alfred J. Litherland Br. 256 Mid-Michigan John W. Mejasic Br. 84 Pittsburgh, PA Fe P. Ramos Br. 1427 Santa Clara, CA Betria H. Taylor Br. 256 Mid-Michigan Joseph J. Buono Br. 258 Reading, PA Walter G. Dudek Br. 86 Hartford, CT Anthony G. Bischof Br. 3126 Royal Oak, MI Katherine A. Lee Br. 3126 Royal Oak, MI Joseph Cunha Br. 15 Providence, RI Faith E. Robinson Br. 5192 Apopka, FL Bryan Daniels Br. 15 Providence, RI David M. Crawford Br. 2148 Sarasota, FL John A. Matthews Br. 3126 Royal Oak, MI Rodeisha Burnett Br. 1071 South Florida Matthew J. Hingston Br. 74 Saginaw, MI Joseph Palmieri Br. 15 Providence, RI Douglas C. Carrington Jr. Br. 1071 South Florida Robert D. Ladner Jr. Br. 4374 South Macomb, MI Thomas Plunkett Br. 15 Providence, RI Calvin L. Berry Br. 1690 W. Palm Beach, FL Richard D. Olson Br. 9 Minneapolis, MN Normand Salois Jr. Br. 15 Providence, RI Raymond O. Burkett Br. 998 Valdosta, GA Anthony B. Alme Br. 28 St. Paul, MN Ralph E. Gannaway Br. 62 Chattanooga, TN Kosto J. Ljubenko Br. 11 Chicago, IL Thomas P. Garvey Br. 28 St. Paul, MN Walter L. Peggs Br. 27 Memphis, TN Ellen Mcbath Br. 1870 Downers Grove, IL Robert N. Kossmeyer Br. 343 St. Louis, MO David G. Beadle Br. 4 Nashville, TN Sean R. Dungey Br. 1151 Naperville, IL Robert E. Williams Br. 343 St. Louis, MO Guillermo Madrid Jr. Br. 505 El Paso, TX Ralph L. Paul Br. 31 Peoria, IL Frank J. Stachowicz Br. 67 Elizabeth, NJ Jose J. Montoya Br. 505 El Paso, TX Michael J. Beard Br. 245 Rockford, IL John R. Leonard Br. 42 Jersey City, NJ Willie M. Aguilera Br. 4065 Garland, TX James F. Eminger Br. 4016 S. Suburban Mgd., IL William T. Brumbaugh Br. 38 New Jersey Mgd. Peter C. Fornell Br. 283 Houston, TX John M. Easdale Br. 38 New Jersey Mgd. Don A. Sproles Br. 4240 Irving, TX Michael W. Backus and David Bammes were erro- Joseph T. Smith Br. 38 New Jersey Mgd. D. F. Sweeney II Br. 524 Roanoke, VA Joseph Curham Br. 396 Plainfield, NJ Kenneth A. Wagner Br. 1104 Vancouver, WA neously listed as deceased in a previous issue of Edward F. O’Brien Br. 29 Albany, NY Raymond M. Gay Br. 852 Yakima, WA The Postal Record. We regret the errors and apolo- Warner Lea Br. 41 Brooklyn, NY Edward A. Fritsch Br. 102 Sheboygan, WI gize for any problems they may have caused. Gilbert Morales Br. 41 Brooklyn, NY James L. Herber Br. 102 Sheboygan, WI Edward W. Maguder Br. 3 Buffalo-Western NY Merwyn C. Tetzlaff Br. 102 Sheboygan, WI

June 2021 The Postal Record 65 Help your NALC family affected by natural disasters The NALC Disaster Relief Foundation provides hands-on relief for carriers affected by natural disasters, such as wildfires, hurricanes, floods and tornados. It receives donations to be used to assist regular NALC members affected by natural disasters. NALC response teams throughout the country are activated to go to disaster locations and offer assis- tance to NALC members and their families who live in the same household. Basic supplies, including uniforms and food, are available for those who need assistance. Financial support may be available depending on the availability of funding and qualifying criterias. Any regu- lar member of NALC who has faced hardship as a result of a natural disaster will be able to apply for assistance. Go to the App Store or Google Play and search Make a donation by sending a for “NALC Member App” to install for free check or money order to: NALC Disaster Relief Foundation 100 Indiana Ave. NW Washington, DC 20001-2144 The foundation is a 501(c)(3). Your contribution to the NALC Disaster Relief Foundation may be eligible for a tax deduction. It is recommended you seek further advice from your tax advisor.

NALCNALC DisasterDisaster ReliefRelief FoundationFoundation