National Association of Letter Carriers Non-Profit Org. Joseph P. Considine Branch 34 AFL-CIO U.S. Postage Branch 34 Honors 400 West Cummings Park, Suite 3950 PAID Woburn, MA 01801-6396 , MA Permit No. 54631 the Life and Work of Address Service Requested NALC National President Emeritus Vincent R. Sombrotto

Volume XLI, Number 5 • January-February 2013 The Award-Winning Newspaper of Joseph P. Considine Branch 34 NALC, AFL-CIO Branch 34’s CLANCLANNational Association of Letter Carriers

123 Years of Proud Union Participation and Accomplishments ★ 18901890 -- 20132013 President’s Corner A New Year, a Legend is Laid to Rest and a New Contract is Rendered e recently experienced a week that won’t soon be for- and they’ll never be another in Wgotten by many NALC Activists. The passing of our our lifetime. iconic leader President Emeritus Vincent R. Sombrotto I’ve truly been blessed to on January 10, 2013, although somewhat expected, was have the opportunity to travel still a blow to our NALC family. Almost simultaneously to his funeral service and the awarded 2011-2016 National Agreement issued by the represent Branch 34 along three person arbitration board was rendered. with Executive Vice-President First I’d like to address our friend and leader’s pass- John McMahon and our Na- ing. He was a man that at times appeared bigger than tional Business Agent John life but was always approachable with his friendly New Casciano to pay our respects In Memoriam York demeanor. For those of you that never experienced to Vince. When we finally Robert A. Lind Vince at the podium at a NALC National Convention you arrived at the Funeral Home President NALC President Emeritus missed out. Vince was the master and was born for that visiting hours were over. We Vincent R. Sombrotto event. Always engaging, courteous but his quick wit and rang the bell and were greeted by the funeral director to disarming charm was even too much for his biggest critics whom we explained our circumstance and he allowed us in (1923-2013) to overcome. to pay our respect. I felt privileged to have had that special incent R. Sombrotto, 89, a towering figure in the For those that came to our convention to have a duel of moment alone with our great leader to say thank you for history of the National Association of Letter Car- wits, they were quickly undressed and left defenseless in a job well done and goodbye until we meet again. It was V riers and one of the most significant U.S. labor leaders front of thousands of brothers and sisters but they seldom a moment that years earlier I would have never visualized of recent decades, died January 10th. walked away angry. He possessed the ability to disagree, but life’s long road is full of twists and turns. As a rank-and-file letter carrier at Grand Central Sta- state his case, embrace and depart friends even with the The following day we attended Vince’s Funeral in a tion in City. Sombrotto assumed leadership most disagreeable. It was an art form that he perfected. quaint little church in a bedroom community outside of of the pivotal 1970 wildcat postal strike that led directly He enjoyed meeting the rank and file members and for New York City with certain NALC former and present Of- to the creation of the modern United States Postal Ser- those of us fortunate to have met Vince, he truly enjoyed ficers, staff and immediate family. Our former and present vice. The following year, he was elected president of it too. He was a humble man with a tremendous pride for National NALC President shared some personal remarks NALC Branch 36 in New York City. Seven years later, his branch, the NALC membership and his family and but it was his son’s eulogy that really hit home. He shared he was elected as NALC’s 16th national president, a not in that exact order. He raised seven children from the same gift that was bestowed to his father, the gift of position he would hold from 1978 to 2002. Washington although they resided in Long Island, NY. He mesmerizing those that listened, the ability to lead. His seven-term tenure atop the union was marked by provided us with a respectable job and took us from food After the service I sought him out just to tell him that extraordinary changes in the letter carrier craft and by stamp eligibility to a decent standard of living through he did his father proud despite the fact I’m sure he was remarkable progress for letter carriers, He also served collective bargaining. well aware that his father was smiling down. His wife, as a vice president of the AFL-CIO. When I was young my father was a Local 25 Team- children and his many grandchildren I’m sure felt blessed “Vince’s long tenure and tireless work for this union, ster who had the greatest devotion and respect for my as Vincent R. Sombrotto always considered himself. He at both the local and national levels. has left a lasting, mother and Jimmy Hoffa. Vince was our Jimmy Hoffa (continued on page 2) positive impact on all the men and women who have carried the mail since the Great Postal Strike, and on Branch 34 Upcoming INSIDE those who will do so in the decades yet to come,” NALC President Fredric V. Rolando said. Membership Meetings Branch 34’s CLAN Sombrotto was born in New York City on June 15, Tuesdays at 7:00 pm 1923. He joined what was then the Post Office Depart- Problems Cited with ment in 1947 as a part-time letter carrier after serving February 12, 2013 with distinction in the U.S. Navy in World War II. at the Sons of Italy Hall the NALC Advertising In 1970. New York City letter camera walked off 120 Quarry Street, Quincy their federal jobs – risking arrest in what was effectively Program a strike against the U.S. government – to protest dis- March 12, 2013 Page 2 mal working conditions and poverty-level wages that at the Boston Lodge of Elks #10 entitled some to federal assistance programs. Within Spring Street, Arbitration Award hours, carriers and other postal employees in one city Issued after another across the country joined the strike. April 9, 2013 Page 3 President called in the troops to at the Malden Moose Hall Check deliver the mail, but they proved unable to carry out the 582 Broadway (Rte. 99), Out These Branch 34 Celebrates task in an effective manner. The walkout eventually re- Malden Dates & Locations sulted in the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970 with full the Holidays collective-bargaining rights for all postal employees. Page 7 Though he held no union office at the time, Som- Tel. / 781-281-1133 brotto’s personal charisma, street smarts and military Around the Branch background led to his taking charge and to other carriers Fax / 781-281-1127 following his lead. Page 9 www.nalcbranch34.com (continued on page 6) Problems Cited with the Massachusetts Congressional USPS Advertising Program Delegation he Postal Reporter News Blog has reported that the Office action would separate the carriers Tof Inspector General (OIG) is now citing problems with from the same Health program the U.S.P.S. advertising program. Congress has. The Legislation it U.S. SENATE The OIG has found that the Postal Service was not ad- would take, would make it easy The Honorable Elizabeth Warren equately monitoring its two largest advertising contracts, who for Congress to justify our being J.T. McMahon Russell Senate Office Bldg., were paid ten million dollars in the fiscal year 2011. separated from what it has. Executive 2 Russell Courtyard There were questionable bonuses of $631,000 paid to these The Postal Service has been Vice President Washington, D.C. 20510 202-224-4543 Fax: 202-224-2417 contractors in fiscal year 2011 and 2012. soliciting Congress on this issue www.warren.senate.gov The Postal Service did not sufficiently track or allocate for over a year. Can you imagine the Postal Service being certain advertising costs nor comply with internal contracts responsible for our retiree and active health concerns? Please! The Honorable William “Mo” Cowan for certifying and retaining advertising costs. Just think what happened to the Polaroid retiree’s health insur- Russell Senate Office Bldg., Rm. 218 Washington, D.C. 20510 Senior management expressed concern over these con- ance. It vaporized, retirees had to go back to work. 202-224-2742 Fax: 202-224-8525 tracts during their audit and allowed the major advertising The last thing we need to do, is put our retiree and active www.cowan.senate.gov contract to expire. Management has taken steps to restructure members’ health insurance at the mercy of the Postal Service. the advertising contract process for consistency with correct The Postal Service can’t run water, let alone a Health Plan. U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES industry practices to maximize the effectiveness of its adver- The ink wasn’t even dry on the National Arbitration Award, First Congressional District tising investments. when the Postal Service sent out a flash stating that the Service The Honorable Richard E. Neal Overall nearly $7,000,000 was identified in unsupported was pleased with some of the Arbitration decision, but that it Rayburn House Office Bldg., Rm. 2208 costs as a result of incorrectly certified and questionable con- would be lobbying Congress to remove the no-layoff clause, Washington, D.C. 20515 tractor support staff labor costs and bonus payments. and eliminate the non-contracting out provision of the new 202-225-5601 Fax: 202-225-8112 This doesn’t even address the money wasted on Lance contract. Can we expect something different, if the Service http://neal.house.gov Armstrong. agrees to a new health provision. Second Congressional District The Honorable James P. McGovern Health Plan Task Force Nalcrest Cannon House Office Bldg., Rm. 438 ne thing to keep an eye on is a Health Insurance Task alcrest, the Letter Carrier retirement community, was dedi- Washington, D.C. 20515 OForce, that was delegated from the National Arbitration Ncated in January 1964, to provide letter carrier a retirement 202-225-6101 Fax: 202-225-5759 decision of 1/10/13. community in Polk County, Central Florida which is about http://mcgovern.house.gov This “Task Force” is to explore all issues pertaining to the 70 miles east of Tampa, Florida. Nalcrest has 500 apartments Third Congressional District establishment of a new Health Plan that could remove letter spread over 153 acres. There is an Olympic-size swimming The Honorable Niki Tsongas carriers from the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program pool with several other recreational activities. Lake Weo- Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1607 (FEHB). The removal from FEHB would be a mistake. This hyakapka forms the backdrop of Nalcrest Recreational Area. Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-3411 Fax: 202-226-0771 Some retirees rent seasonally as well as annually. Branch http://tsongas.house.gov 34 has had a permanently-owned apartment for decades. This one bedroom apartment is open for rental weekly throughout Fourth Congressional District Thank You! the year for all active and retired Branch 34 members. The The Honorable Joseph P. Kennedy III wanted to dedicate my article Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1218 weekly fee is $195.00 per week and a $55.00 cleaning fee. The Washington, D.C. 20515 Iin this issue of “Branch 34’s availability is first come-first served. Any questions, please 202-225-5931 Fax: 202-225-0182 CLAN” to offer my profound call Kevin Flaherty at the Branch office (781-281-1133). http://kennedy.house.gov thanks to the letter carriers of Represented Communities: Brookline, Newton, Needham, Branch 34. Vincent Sombrotto Wellesley, Dover, Medfield, Millis, Medway, Milford, Hopkinton, As you all know I recently re- he National Association of Letter Carriers suffered a great Hopedale, Bellingham, Franklin, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Foxboro, Sharon, North Attleborough, Attleboro, Mansfield, turned to the Branch after having Tloss with the passing of former National President Vincent Norton, Easton, Seekonk, Rehoboth, Taunton, Raynham, Dighton, some medical issues last summer. R. Sombrotto. Berkley, Lakeville, Freetown, Somerset, Swansea My recovery has been nothing less President Sombrotto was a major contributor to the Postal Fifth Congressional District than remarkable and improvement Bob Simpson Strike of 1970. The results of which changed the Postal Service The Honorable Edward J. Markey is made every day. I firmly believe Vice President forever. Letter Carriers went from the poverty level and being Rayburn House Office Bldg., Rm. 2108 that part of the reason for my quick eligible for food stamps, to being part of the middle class. Washington, D.C. 20515 recovery is you, the letter carriers of Branch 34. The many President Sombrotto was responsible for one man, one 202-225-2836 Fax: 202-226-0092 calls and get well cards I have received lifted my spirits and vote, making the NALC one of the most democratic unions http://markey.house.gov Represented Communities: Arlington, Belmont, Framingham, reminded me again that the best carriers in America are the in the country. Lexington, Lincoln, Malden, Medford, Natick, Revere, Stoneham, carriers of Branch 34. President Sombrotto was President of the National As- Waltham, Watertown, Wayland, Weston, Winchester, Winthrop, Again, a heartfelt Thank You. sociation of Letter Carriers from 1978-2002. Woburn Sixth Congressional District The Honorable John F. Tierney Rayburn House Office Bldg., Rm. 2238 President’s Corner Washington, D.C. 20515 (continued from page 1) 202-225-8020 Fax: 202-225-5915 often said “It was an honor to serve the NALC” and it was an contract are projected to amount to $1,955 for a combined http://tierney.house.gov honor to follow his lead. Rest in Peace my brother, and may total projected increase of $3,933 between now and May of Seventh Congressional District we all give Vince a well deserved letter carrier salute. 2016 for top step regular letter carriers. The Honorable Michael E. Capuano This award has lowered entry wages for new career letter Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1414 A Contract is Rendered: The Das Award carriers hired on or after January 12, 2013 with a new step Washington, D.C. 20515 progression that ends at the existing Step O in both Grades 1 202-225-5111 Fax: 202-225-9322 n January 11, 2013 the three person board of arbitrators issued a final and binding award that set the terms of a & 2 of the NALC current pay charts. This new step progres- http://capuano.house.gov O sion (table 2 of the City Carrier Schedule) will reach top step Represented Communities: Boston, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, four and a half year collective bargaining agreement between Milton, Randolph, Somerville the NALC and the USPS. It covers the period from November of the existing pay chart (table 1 of the City Carrier Wage Schedule) in the same amount of weeks (644) equaling the Eighth Congressional District 20, 2011 to May 20, 2016. This award followed months of The Honorable Stephen F. Lynch preparation, negotiations by the NALC and its associated par- current 12.4 years that applies to career carriers hired before Rayburn House Office Bldg., Rm. 2348 ties, but a negotiated contract could nt be hammered out with January 12, 2013. Washington, D.C. 20515 the USPS. The NALC put its best foot forward which is quite New career letter carriers will earn $16.71 per hour at Step 202-225-8273 Fax: 202-225-3984 evident in the 56 page transcript of testimony provided to the A initially. They will earn step increases worth 2.75 % of top http://lynch.house.gov selected Arbitration Panel which was viewable at www.nalc. step pay every 46 weeks until they reach Step O of Table 2 Represented Communities: Abington, Avon, Boston, Braintree, ($27.17 per hour) which equals the top step pay of Grade 1 Bridgewater, Brockton, Canton, Cohasset, Dedham, org. Unfortunately arbitrators are influenced by many sources East Bridgewater, Hingham, Holbrook, Hull, Milton, Norwood, which are quite evident in their 69 page decision. That too can of Table 1. Quincy, Raynham, Scituate, Stoughton, Walpole, Weymouth, be viewed at www.nalc.org. West Bridgewater, Westwood, Whitman Here are some of the highlights: New Non-Career Category Ninth Congressional District It provides three general wage increases between now and The Honorable William Keating the end of the contract. with a Career Path Cannon House Office Bldg., Rm. 315 he Das Award creates a new category called city carrier Washington, D.C. 20515 1% in November 2013 1.5% in November 2014 Tassistants (CCA’s) to replace TE’s. These non-career 202-225-3111 Fax: 202-225-5658 employees will be NALC members and appointed to 360 http://keating.house.gov 1% in November 2015 Represented Communities: Norwell, Roxkland, Hanover, Hanson, These wage increases provided by the new contract will Day terms. They will earn pre-career appointment version of Pembroke, Duxbury, Halifax, Plympton, Kingston, Middleborough, raise Step O annual pay by $1,978 for Grade 1 carriers. seniority called “relative standing” that will give them career Carver, Plymouth, Fall River, Westport, Dartmouth, New Bedford, job opening preference in their installations. All career carrier Acushnet, Fairhaven, Rochester, Mattapoisett, Marion, Wareham, It also provides for seven COLA’s between now and 2016. Bourne, Sandwich, Falmouth, Sandwich, Mashpee, Barnstable, The two COLA’s calculated in 2013 shall be deferred and paid vacancies will be filled by converting CCA’s to full-time regu- Hyannis, Yarmouth, Dennis, Brewster, Harwich, Orleans, in 2014. The wage and COLA provisions follow the wage lar status by applying their relative standing in the installation. Chatham, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, Provincetown, Aquinnah, The TE category will be eliminated within 90 days and by Goswold, Chilmark, West Tisbury Tisbury, Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, pattern established by the negotiated APWU contract and the Nantucket arbitrated NRLCA contract. The COLA’s for the life of this (continued on page 9)

2 BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 Arbitration Award Issued n January 11, 2013 the three-person preference for career job openings. PTF’s unhappy carrier yells on the workroom Area Stewards in Oboard of arbitrators deciding our con- will be converted to full-time regular status floor“what is the union doing for me,” you processing these tract issued a final and binding decision. As over the term of the contract. can respond with this award. grievances. One NALC President Fredrick Rolando stated Other benefits in the award include the And speaking of this award, it should note of caution “we would have preferred to reach a negoti- continuation of the no-layoff clause in be noted that every letter carrier benefits to all injured ated settlement…. The process worked as Article 6, despite management’s opposi- from this award. Letter carriers that are carriers, if you intended to resolve all outstanding issues.” tion to it. NALC also retained the ban on not members of this great union receive are injured and Kevin Flaherty I want to thank our national officers and sub-contracting achieved in the 2006 round the same pay raises, the same no-layoff have restrictions Secretary- their team for the work they did in prepar- of bargaining. This was believed to be one protection, and the same protection but are capable Treasurer ing our case. of the stumbling blocks in a negotiated of subcontracting as every member of of working, the Letter carriers will not be subject to a contract. The complete text of the award NALC. Isn’t it time that we once again Postal Service is obligated to provide you wage freeze as many federal workers are. can be viewed on the NALC website, www. urge all non-members to join the union work within those medical restrictions. If We will also continue to receive our cost nalc.org. and contribute in the same way we all work is not offered, you should notify your of living adjustments (COLA). The new In the current economic situation this do? Non-members do not receive Branch shop steward immediately in order to file contract provides three general wage in- award is significant. To secure wage 34’s CLAN, but I’m sure they still read it. a grievance. Shop Stewards must process creases of 1.5 percent in 2013, 1 percent in increases and COLAs is an enormous How about setting aside any of the rea- these grievances and avoid any undue de- 2014, and 1 percent in 2016. There will also benefit. The arbitration panel, chaired by sons of the past for not joining NALC. Now lays. If you have any questions please call be seven COLA’s between now and 2016. Shyam Das, accepted the NALC argu- is a great time to join the NALC Branch me at the Branch office (781-281-1133). However the entry wage for new career ments that the job of city letter carrier 34. See your local Shop Steward for the letter carriers appointed on or after January is becoming more difficult over time. necessary forms. 12, 2013 was lowered. NALC successfully The closing brief submitted by President Now a quick update on NRP which Branch 34’s argued that reducing the top step pay of city Rolando outlined this. the Postal Service does not call NRP carriers was not justified. Undoubtedly there will be some nega- anymore. Several more grievances con- The award also creates a new category tive views regarding the decision. Please cerning management’s refusal to provide CLAN of non-career employees called city carrier remember that this contract was not nego- eight hours of limited duty to injured assistants (CCAs) to replace TEs. They will tiated despite enormous efforts by NALC. letter carriers have been settled. The Founded May 1971 be members of the NALC bargaining unit. This contract was an arbitration award. settlements have resulted in carriers either AWARDS Unlike TEs, CCAs will earn a pre-career While neither party wins when the contract being paid for time sent home or them International Labor Communications Association appointment version of seniority called goes to arbitration, the NALC prevailed in being recredited with leave that was used. GENERAL EXCELLENCE – “relative standing” that will give them most of our concerns. So the next time some Once again, good job by our stewards and LOCAL UNION PUBLICATIONS – CIRCULATIONS of 2,500 to 9,999 First Place, 2003 National Association of A Busy Time of Year Letter Carriers GENERAL EXCELLENCE – here was no doubt that 2012 was a busy Reform will be addressed by the current all passing on LARGE BRANCH PUBLICATIONS – year for the NALC and early indications Congress. Hopefully Postal Reform will the race, we’re MORE THAN 1,500 MEMBERS T First Place, 2012 are that 2013 will be no different. The first be a well-thought out piece of legislation left wondering First Place, 2010 topic of the New Year is our contract. not some hastily drafted amendment tacked who will the First Place, 2008 Finally we have received the Arbitrators’ onto some unrelated bill at the 11th hour. GOP run? First Place, 2002 decision. The information provided so far We need real solutions which start with real As you know First Place, 1996 First Place, 1994 demonstrates that while we always could conversations. Governor Pat- Michael Kidd Second Place, 2006 do better (we should have a base salary of Speaking of Congress, in specific, the rick has said that Legislative Second Place, 1992 $100,000) we could have done a lot worse United States Senate, times they are a this will be his Liaison Third Place, 2004 – think the negotiated settlement of the changing. As this edition of “Branch 34’s last term. Will Honorable Mention, 1982 Judges’ Commendation, 1988 APWU. As with all Arbitrator’s decisions CLAN” is going to press, Senator John Patrick himself run for the Senate seat on BEST STORY the devil is in the details and as more infor- Kerry (D-MA) has been confirmed as the a permanent basis? Will Patrick step down First Place, 1996 mation is forthcoming the picture should next Secretary of State, replacing Hillary early to join the Obama cabinet and give Third Place, 1990 become clearer. It appears that Arbitrator Clinton. Lt. Governor Tim Murray, who seems to 2 Honorable Mentions, 1992 Shayam Das has recognized the contribu- Governor Deval Patrick has announced be making news for all the wrong reasons Honorable Mention, 1990 tion made by letter carriers to the success that William “Mo” Cowan, Patrick’s lately, a few months as Acting Governor? BEST CARTOON OR PHOTO of the Postal Service. As we all know by former chief of staff and now serving as a The Governor’s race itself will be very First Place, 2006 PROMOTING UNIONISM now the wage increase are small, but we senior advisor, will serve as interim Senator interesting, names floated so far include Third Place, 1992 can expect several COLAs in addition to until a special election to fill the remainder Congressman Mike Capuano (this is may- Judges’ Commendation, 1988 maintaining the no layoff clause and pre- of Kerry’s term is held on June 25th. be why he passed on a run for the Senate), venting the outsourcing of our jobs. In ad- As this issue of the “CLAN” hits the Martha Coakley and Steve Grossman. BRANCH 34’s CLAN is the Official Publication of Branch 34 of the National Association of Letter Car- dition, all PTFs will be converted to regular street there will be a contest for the Demo- On a somber note, it was sad to hear of riers, AFL-CIO. The Boston Branch was Chartered by the NALC on June 18, 1890. BRANCH 34’s CLAN although the actual timeline of conversion cratic nomination for the special election. the passing of President Emeritus Vince is published six times each year. It presents the various is still unclear. There are two declared candidates so far Sombrotto. For those of you who don’t issues of the day that are of concern to the membership. The views and opinions expressed in the articles and While the Congress that just adjourned – Congressman Stephen Lynch and Con- know, Vince was the rock on which the columns do not necessarily reflect the official position didn’t take any action to fix the problems of gressman Ed Markey, but I would expect current NALC was built. He was a leader of the NALC Branch 34 or its officers, but rather those of the author. the Postal Service (and for that matter post- other candidates will throw their hats in the of the Great Postal Strike of 1970 as well Any articles submitted for publication in BRANCH poning important decisions for the country ring. On the Republican side, with Scott as being an important player in the history 34’s CLAN must be typewritten, double-spaced and as a whole) we can almost guarantee Postal Brown, Richard Tisei and William Weld of the American Labor movement, He will received at the Branch office no later than the close of business on the first of the month of publication: be missed. January, March, May, July, September, and November. The Editor reserves the right to amend articles and/or delay Finally, on a personal note, I want to their publication due to the limited availability of space. share that I finally decided that this was Thank You! Permission is hereby granted for the REPRINTING going to be the year I was going to do the of any article that originates in this paper provided an am writing to inform the membership that I will not be run- L Street Brownies Polar Plunge on New appropriate credit line also appears and a copy of the ning again for “Branch 34’s CLAN” Editor due to family reprint in its new publication is sent to: Editor, NALC I Year’s Day. For several weeks prior, I would Branch 34, 400 West Cummings Park, Suite 3950, Wo- obligations. go the Lagoon at Castle Island and take burn, MA 01801-6396. Over the years, I had the opportunity to meet and interview BRANCH 34’s CLAN enters the Postal Service as a practice dip all the while watching the third-class, non-profit material. Any change of address some wonderful people. They have all touched my life in a news to see what the Boston Harbor water should be sent to: Editor, NALC Branch 34, 400 West special way and inspired me. temperature was dropping to. FYI on New Cummings Park, Suite 3950, Woburn, MA 01801-6396. I want to THANK all of them! I would like to thank all of Year’s Day the water temperature was a Mary “Mazie” Collier, Editor the members for their support during my tenure, even when Mary “Mazie” Collier Robert A. Lind, Associate Editor balmy 45 degrees. John T. McMahon, Associate Editor times were tough. I TRULY appreciate it. Finally, the big day arrived. It was a 2010-2013 BRANCH 34 NALC I have always been very PROUD to serve Branch 34 Union members. We are a mob scene. The crowd was so big, close BOARD OF OFFICERS very unique group of people. I think we all know how lucky we are to belong to a to 1,000 people, the organizers had to Robert A. Lind President union, but if you don’t know, just talk to someone who’s not! John T. McMahon Executive Vice President break the crowd into two groups to prevent Bob Simpson Vice President In Solidarity, people from being trampled. Upon arrival Kevin Flaherty Secretary-Treasurer Mary “Mazie” Collier Michael Yerkes Financial Secretary participants had to sign a waiver in case Mary “Mazie” Collier Editor P.S. Steve Mahoney will be taking over as “Branch 34’s CLAN” Editor and I something happened. Many people showed Michael Gorham Health Benefit Officer up in costumes and several groups were Michael Murray Sergeant-at-Arms know he will do a great job! Steve Mahoney Clerk, MBA/NSBA there raising monies for charities. Paul Roche Chairman, Trustees Finally, I made the plunge! Daniel O’Connor Trustee I admit, I enjoyed the whole experi- Marty Foley Trustee Protect Your Future! Jerry McCarthy Area Steward ence but it was a once-in-a-lifetime event. Brian Manning Area Steward Probably, For now I have the memories, Michael Kidd Area Steward Bernadette Romans Area Steward video and certificate of accomplishment to GIVE TO COLCPE! remember the day. 208 Until next time. BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 3 From the Field North Weymouth Letter Carrier Pat O’Toole Inducted into AFA Hall of Fame recently had the pleasure of sitting down flattering but mean next to nothing com- and coaches. Iwith newly-retired letter carrier and pared to the relationship built while playing He also gave an Brian Manning American Football Association Hall of the game of football. emotional five Fame inductee (class of 2012) Pat O’Toole. O’Toole’s semi-pro career spanned minute speech Area Steward Pat has been a proud member of Branch over 15 years as a defensive back, where dedicated to his hero, his Mom. 34 and letter carrier for the past 27 years. he amassed an unbelievable 83 career Following this great honor, O’Toole was He was honored at an induction cer- interceptions. He has received many per- also inducted into the Hall emony that took place at Pro Football Hall sonal awards which include Most Improved of Fame, for his outstanding contribution of Fame in Canton, Ohio early this past Player, Best Defensive Back (multiple), to the community. Congratulations to Pat summer, just a couple of months prior to Unsung Hero, Sportsmanship, and MVP on these numerous accomplishments and his retirement from the North Weymouth (multiple). enjoy a long and healthy retirement. Post Office on October nd2 , 2012. I first met Pat several years back in my travels to North Weymouth to handle grievances. He always greeted me with a smile and a kind word, not always the norm when visiting the workroom floor. Pat is a true gentleman in every sense of the word. Pat O’Toole is inducted into the American Football I recall late spring of this year, while Association Hall of Fame. I was once again conducting business in O’Toole had quite an accomplished North Weymouth I ran into Pat. It was ap- football career in which he attributed his parent the something was different about success to being the most prepared and him. Pat had a smile ear to ear, even big- physically fit player on the field, not the ger than normal and was walking chest biggest or most talented. out proud as a peacock. I thought he must Pat explained that he got his superior have spend the night on the “Girls Gone work ethic from his mother, who raised Wild” bus. him as a single parent after being wid- So curiously, I asked Pat what’s new and owed when he was a child. Pat is working he went on to informed me that he had just tirelessly to instill the same work ethic received notification from the American on the youth of Weymouth where he has Football Association Hall of Fame induc- worked at the high school as strength tion committee and he was being inducted and conditioning and football special as part of the 32nd Annual Class. teams coach and mentor for years, as a O’Toole enjoyed a long and successful volunteer in the past and now as a salaried Pat O’Toole (circled) and his South Boston Chippewas semi football career in both the Boston Park employee, in addition to having spent time in front of the High School. Leagues and the Eastern Football Leagues, at Catholic Memorial High school in the Despite this personal recognition, in addition to his long and rewarding time same position. O’Toole continued to divert the attention as a letter carrier. He is now one of 671 During our interview, Pat spoke fondly of our conversation back to teammates of individuals enshrined nationally for their of countless coaches and teammates and yesteryear and away from him. This type outstanding contributions to the game of attributed much of his success to them. He of unselfishness is definitely a contributing football on the semi professional level. explained that the personal accolades are factor in O’Toole’s induction to the HOF, as was the longevity and talent displayed on the field. I commented in our discussion, what a great year it must have been for him with the HOF induction and his retirement, but Pat quickly offered that the highlight of his year was the birth of newest grandchild, but the Hall of Fame induction and retirement was a close second and third respectively. That is typical of Pat. He is one of the most genuine and truly down to earth I have ever met. Pat also shared many pictures from his illustrious career as a “titan of the gridiron,” as well as from the induction ceremony. The ceremony in Canton was well-attended The 1978 Boston Park League Champions South Boston Chippewas receive their trophy from then City by O’Toole’s family, friends, teammates Pat O’Toole prepares to handle a kickoff at a 1978 Councillor Raymond Flynn. Pat O’Toole is circled on right. South Boston Chippewas football game. Also From the Field USPS Keeps Drilling Holes Into Their Own Sinking Ship or a agency that does nothing but com- and not have to go to the postal service on as soon as possible. MSP’s do nothing but replacements. Fplain to Congress about how much Saturday will no longer have that option. slow this process and this task does noth- These ex- money they are losing they continue to drill This will generate more negative results ing to improve the service we all want to amples hardly holes in their own sinking ship: than positive ones. Public opinion will also provide to our customers. scratch the sur- 1. Spending billions of dollars to install turn against us. Someone will fill this void 4. The GPS’s being installed in vehicles face of how FSS machines across this whole country and offer a service on Saturday, costing and then later removed. How many millions mismanaged the and then going to Congress to ask to close more in lost revenues. were wasted for this program? The only Postal Service some of these same buildings due to not What will the mail volume now be like thing that came out of this program was really is. Ac- enough mail. These machines will have every Monday? This volume is bad enough more discipline to carriers over this time countability is to be disassembled and moved elsewhere on a regular Monday. This will make every period. How much of this data collected something that Jerry McCarthy costing more millions to do. Filing a law- Monday like the day after a holiday. The was never used for anything? only effects craft Area Steward suit against the builders of these machines Postal Service moves quickly when they Motorizing more routes as the cost of employees. If (Grumman) because these machines do not want to capture routes, how quickly will gasoline continues to climb runs hand in these decisions were made by executives work as promised and then renewing their they move to restore routes if this volume hand with this. in the private sector they would wake up contract with them for additional service. warrants the creation of new routes. 5.How much money is being lost due to the next day in the unemployment line. The 2. Needing more plans to save the Postal 3. The upper management decision to the additional injuries being suffered by let- Postal Service will move, hide, promote or Service money to survive. They have come increase the number of MSP barcodes. ter carriers across the country. The average offer retirement incentives to these individu- up with plans to provide less service to This does nothing but create more work for age of a career letter carrier is over 54 years als. It really is time that Congress held Postal the customers. Five-day delivery leads everyone involved. Performing, checking of age. Longer routes, less office time and Service management accountable for these the pack, closing on the one day that most and all the discipline issued due to missed more street time is having a effect on more horrible business decisions and vindictive ac- people have off makes no sense. Customers scans has cost even more lost revenues. For Carriers suffering additional injuries and tions, the same way the postal service holds that could get accountable mail delivered what? Customers want their mail delivered, more occupational diseases such as joint craft employees accountable for their errors.

4 BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 Vincent R. Sombrotto s all Letter Carriers are by now aware, including wages and fringe benefits. to make the union leadership more respon- thirty years Athe NALC and the labor movement at The Postal Reorganization Act also in- sive to the members, including replacing later, Vince large, lost a true leader with the passing of cluded the present day process of binding the old proxy system with one man, one stated “One of National President Emeritus Vincent R. interest arbitration to avoid similar such vote democracy. By 1978, those reforms the things that I Sombrotto on January 10, 2013. actions. In an ironic twist, the final and had been adopted, and that fall Vince was more fully un- As a rank and file Letter Carrier at Grand binding arbitration award for our 2011- overwhelmingly elected NALC’s 16th Na- derstand now is Central Station in New York City, Vince as- 2016 National Agreement was announced tional President. how revolutions Michael Yerkes sumed leadership of the pivotal March 17, coincident with the passing of President President Sombrotto’s accomplish- are conceived, Financial 1970 wildcat postal strike that led directly Emeritus Sombrotto. ments for Letter Carriers and for the union how govern- Secretary to the present day United States Postal Following the strike, Vince and the include seven highly productive rounds ments can be Service. Decades of sub-standard pay and “rank-and-file movement” that coalesced of collective bargaining that provided overthrown, and how our nation was poor working conditions had created the around him pushed to maintain the momen- basic wage increases in every contract, founded because a few good men would not conditions for the rebellion. It must be tum. Taking over the leadership of the New preserved uncapped cost-of-living adjust- stand by when they experienced conditions noted that in 1970, a craft employee of the York City Branch 36, they rallied support ments, and improved working conditions. so intolerable that they were ready to risk Post Office with 21 years of service earned with a pledge to give individual Letter Car- Furthermore, in 1993 the NALC played a everything.” a top-of-scale average of $8,440, practically riers a political voice in their own union. critical role in winning reform of the Hatch (Source: Walter P. Reuther Library, poverty level in numerous urban centers. Similar rank and file movements were tak- Act, and Vince’s bargaining exploits were Wayne State University, Detroit, MI) The striking members were shortly ing place in other locals around the country highlighted by the historic 1999 Grade 6 joined by Letter Carriers throughout the including here in Branch 34 led by the late upgrade. Address Changes Northeast Region, including Branch 34 in National Secretary-Treasurer Ron Hughes, A sense of civic responsibility prompted resident Bob Lind and your Board of Boston. In all, about 200,000 workers in former Branch 34 President and National President Sombrotto to promote the Letter POfficers strive to keep the membership over 30 major cities from Boston to Los OfficerMichael O’Connor and others. Carrier tradition of assisting those in need. informed of pending legislative issues, local Angeles took part in the job action which Installed as Branch 36 President in 1971, From raising money for charities, volun- news, upcoming events, etc. To facilitate the directly led to the Postal Reorganization Vince worked to fulfill the promises of the teering time and resources to community dispersal of such information, the Branch Act of 1970 and the right for the NALC and rank and file platform – moving their focus projects, and offering a helping hand to the utilizes a variety of mediums including other postal Unions to collectively bargain to the national NALC arena and introducing less fortunate, the union’s active support has station visits, the new Branch website for all terms and conditions of employment, a number of national convention resolutions raised millions of dollars for the Muscular nalcbranch34.com and the all-important Dystrophy Association, and the annual direct mailings to active members, retired NALC Food Drive has become the world’s members and/or the membership as a whole Leave Your Grudges Behind – largest one-day food collection. dependent on the subject matter. In closing, every Letter Carrier who has To assist us in this process, we remind not already done so would be well served all members to keep the Branch informed Let’s Move Forward Together to take the time to view the video ‘The of any changes in their mailing address. n a time where management acts like our enemy, I would 40th Anniversary of the 1970 Postal Strike’ Members can utilize the change of address Ilike to ask all carriers to leave what grudges you may have easily accessible on youtube. For those of form found on page 10 of this issue of with other carriers aside and let’s be more cohesive than ever. us who weren’t there, it provides a clear Branch 34’s CLAN, call the office at 781- The word “solidarity” refers to the ties in society that bind perspective of the divergence between cir- 281-1133 of email me directly at myerkes@ people to one another. I ask all carriers to bind to one another, cumstances of today’s Letter Carriers and nalcbranch34.com to back each other up on all levels. This is a union, and we those which existed prior to the walkout. As at Branch 34 should and can be the definition of solidarity bad as working conditions seem now, they and union. Letters of warning are given to carriers every day, pale in comparison to the circumstances of backing each other up is important and staying a cohesive pre-1970 and we continue to owe a debt of In Memoriam gratitude to the members, many still around, Vincent R. Sombrotto force is necessary to defeat any enemy. Marty Foley A union is an organization of workers who have banded who chose to make a stand March 17, 1970. NALC National President Emeritus together to achieve common goals such as protecting the in- Trustee When reminiscing about the strike some Gerald M. Dalelio tegrity of its trade, achieving higher pay, and better working Retired Member – Cambridge conditions. I am not writing a very long article, but a very sincere and important one, with Congratulations Michael P. Forrestall what we know about the postal service and how it wants to affect its carrier work force, Retired Member – Belmont it is primary that all carriers stick together band together and back up your stewards and branch officers no matter who they may be or how you feel about that particular person. Retirees Walter A. Glendye Retired Member – “My attitude is that if you push me towards something that you think is a weakness, n behalf of President Lind, the Board then I will turn that perceived weakness into a strength.” – Michael Jordan. Oof Officers and all the Brothers and William P. Hickey The Postal Service believes that turning us against one another will divide us… Let’s Sisters of Branch 34, we extend our wishes Retired Member – Braintree not let that happen! We are UNION… We are Branch 34 NALC! for a long, happy, healthy and well deserved Joseph P. O’Donnell retirement to the following recently retired Retired Member – Braintree members: Donald A. Richardson Choices We Make... John M. Moran...... Wollaston Retired Member – Wollaston veryday we meet many new obstacles Also, the Linda H. Noddin...... Malden Eeither at work, with all of the changes MBA offers Leonard J. Snow ...... Waltham Rest in Peace management places on our shoulders Hospital Plus Harry Themistocles...... Braintree (change of start times, pivoting, forced to our mem- overtime in the dark) or at home (who bers who may picks up the kids, what’s for supper, be confined to Attention Retired Letter Carriers: when am I going to clean out the gut- a hospital or a Steve Mahoney Anyone who meets the 50 year ters). We all face tough challenges which 24 hour nursing requirement to receive a GOLD CARD, lead to the choices we make. We meet facility and the Clerk these challenges head on and make the Mature Income NSBA-MBA please contact the Union Office at best possible decision based on situation Plan which can 781-281-1133 to provide and receive more and demand. provide a lifetime of supplemental income. information. If you haven’t taken notice, the MBA/ It’s never too late to take advantage of all NSBA affords products to all our mem- the benefits we receive as Union members, bers in addition to what is provided by the but it’s up to you to make the choice. USPS. Anyone interested in obtaining a policy The MBA offers Whole Life, Term with the MBA, or information on filing a Life, as well as Universal Life Insurance claim, please call me, Steve Mahoney at The Boston Letter Carriers Mutual Benefit Association Products. 781-281-1133. Founded May 18, 1889 522 Dorchester Avenue, South Boston, MA 02127 Telephone (617) 269-9111 Give Blood! Assets: $5,000,000 Life Insurance: $5,500 • Weekly Benefit: $42* he American Red Cross and local blood banks need your help! Lifetime Sick Benefit: $480 • Annual Dues: $14 T As a postal employee, you are entitled to give blood and are allowed adminis- NO PHYSICAL EXAM trative leave to do so (See ELM519.51-519.522). You are also allowed time to donate Applicants must be under forty years of age and less than three years a bone marrow, stem cells, blood platelets and organ donations. full-time Letter Carrier. Premiums have never been increased. Managed The maximum administrative leave is the following: by Boston Letter Carriers. Supervised and audited by the Massachusetts Full-Time Career Employee Part-Time Career Employee Department of Insurance. See your Station Mutual Benefit Association For Bone Marrow...... 3 Days 1-1/2 Days representatives for further details, or call 617-269-9111. For Stem Cell...... 3 Days 1-1/2 Days * After first seven days with no leave to your credit. For Blood Platelets...... 3 Days 1-1/2 Days For Organ Donations...... 14 Days 7 Days President: Thomas Sheehan • Recording Secretary: Arthur Dinsmoor – Dan O’Connor, Branch 34 Trustee

BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 5 ✵ ✵ ✵ SPECIAL CONVENTION EDITION ✵ ✵ ✵ In Memoriam: Vincent R. Sombrotto (1923-2013) (continued from page 1) As national president and chief contract A firm believer in civic responsibility, many of these letter carriers perform heroic taking part in many national conventions Burrus Delivers Historic Address; negotiator, Sombrotto led the NALC in Sombrotto tirelessly promoted the letter and humanitarian deeds on their routes, sav- as well as in a special video commemorat- seven highly productive rounds of collec- carrier tradition of assisting those in need. ing lives, putting out fires, finding missing ing the 40th anniversary of the Great Postal tive bargaining that provided basic wage His active support of the Muscular Dystro- children and stopping crimes, something Strike. His last appearance at a national Sees Unions Working Together increases in every contract, preserved phy Association helped raise tens of mil- that Sombrotto and every NALC President NALC gathering was at the National Rap uncapped cost-of-living adjustments and lions of dollars to fight the ravages of neu- since have recognized annually with the Session in Las Vegas in October of 2011. First Appearance by APWU President at NALC Convention improved letter carrier working conditions. romuscular diseases. In 1992, he began the NALC Heroes of the Year awards. Sombrotto is survived by his wife Rae, His efforts made the carrier’s job a more NALC Food Drive, which hasJuly developed 24, 2008 No. 08-14Sombrotto retired from national office by seven grown children and by 14 grand- In a historic and unprecedented action, William Burrus, president of the American Postal Workers Union into the coun- in 2002. Since then, he had remained en- children. (APWU) addressed convention delegates on July 23, expressing that the survival of postal employees try’s larg- gaged in the service of his beloved union, Rest in peace. Vince. rights will be determined by members of the two giant postal unions working together. est one-day Burrus applauded the decision by President Young to invite food drive. him to be the first APWU president in history to speak at a NALC Held the convention. ‘Vincentsecond Sat- R. SombrottoNALC Building’ National President Emeritus urday every Vincent R. Sombrotto “It was a bold move by a bold leader,” Burrus said, adding (shown on the big screen at the that he has reciprocated by inviting Young to speak at the APWU May, it has 66th Biennial Convention convention in August. Dedicatedto date pro- in Special Ceremonyheld in Boston) expresses his vided more appreciation for the dedication of “Our future will be determined by our ability to work the Vincent R. Sombrotto NALC together,” Burrus said. “The actions of your president than 1.2 bil- Building in Washington, D.C. lion pounds are an indication of what we can do together. And we will.” Presidentof food for Emeritus and Family at Convention; food banks in In introducing Burrus, Young noted that both he and Burrus Bustcommunities for NALC Headquarters Lobby Unveiled served under legendary union presidents from New York City, the throughout late APWU President Moe Biller and NALC President Emeritus Vincent R. Sombrotto. Vincent Sombrotto speaks to picketers at the 1970 Postal Strike Rally in Boston. the nation, President Emeritus Vince Sombrotto “Greatestwith letter president in the history ofposes the with his wife,NALC” Rae, and other “APWU and NALC share a great history together,” Young said, family members around bust noting that they have negotiated eight contracts together before rewarding and satisfying one. and they carriers collecting non-perishable food of him which is located at the made the NALC a stronger, more united postal patrons leave near their mailboxes. Vincent– R. President Sombrotto NALC Young Building going separately about 10 years ago. “We continue to work union, well-equipped to meet the chal- Knowing that carriers are both familiar in Washington, D.C. together to advance the cause of postal employees in many ways lenges it faced. with and dedicated – Photo by Mike Shea, NALC at L’Enfant Plaza, on Capitol Hill, and across America.” Sombrotto’s many achievements as to the communities Young pointed to the fact the two unions joined recently to NALC president included turning the they serve, Sombrotto oppose efforts of the Inspector General “to prevent him from union’s political action fund, the Commit- and the NALC joined trampling over the privacy right of postal employees.” APWU President William Burrus delivers tee On Letter Carrier Political Education forces with the U.S. “In the difficult times ahead, NALC and APWU are historic address to NALC Convention in (COLCPE), into one of the largest and most Postal Service, lo- committed to the same goals – a strong and vibrant Boston. effective political action committees in the cal United Ways and Postal Service and a better life for our members,” Young said. labor movement while dramatically im- emergency services In his speech, Burrus said the two unions have fought together to oppose unjust use of casual proving the union’s political and legislative organizations to es- employees and violations of staffing requirements. operations. Under his leadership in 1993, tablish Carrier Alert, the NALC played a critical role in win- a nationwide program “There is much of your union that I have admired for years,” Burrus said. “I have been especially ning reform of the Hatch Act, breaking the where carriers can impressed by the determination and professionalism of your advocates. I know I can attest to the fact there is no better advocate for postal employees than a National Association of Letter Carriers’ political shackles that made letter carriers watch over elderly or member.” and other federal employees second-class housebound postal citizens for more than 50 years. customers. A great The APWU leader said, however, that great challenges lie ahead, with the very future of the Postal President Emeritus Sombrotto poses with his wife, Rae, and other family members around bust of him to be located at the newly Service at risk. named Vincent R. Sombrotto Building in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mike Shea) “I am determined as president of APWU that in these challenging times, postal manage­ ment does not solve its financial difficulties on the backs of workers,” Burrus said. NALC national headquarters in Washington, DC was formally dedicated July 22 at the 66th Burrus also praised the delegates for their endorsement Monday of Sen. for president Biennial Convention as “The Vincent R. Sombrotto Building” in tribute to the leader of the Great of the United States, calling it “a tribute to your commitment to our future.” Postal Strike in 1970 who went on to head the union’s largest branch and then serve nearly 24 “And it was a brilliant touch to have that endorsement made by Sen. Hilliary Clinton and make her an years as national president of the National honorary member of your union,” Burrus added. “I look forward to working with our brothers and sisters Association of Letter Carriers. of your union in fighting for change, electing Barack Obama as the next President of the United States.” President Emeritus Sombrotto, who retired in 2002, was joined at the emotional ceremony by several members of his family, including his wife, Rae, who maintained the family home in New York while Sombrotto commuted weekly Critelli Urges Increased Collaboration to the nation’s capital. The bronze bust of Sombrotto, which will Between NALC and Mailing Industry be on a pedestal next to Hutching Hall in the The mailing industry and letter carriers must collaborate to win the heart and minds of the general public which headquarters building at 100 Indiana Ave., NW Three NALC Presidents — President Emeritus Vincent R. has been misled into believing mail is bad for the environment and an annoyance, the head of Pitney Bowes, Inc. in Washington, was unveiled by Sombrotto’s Sombrotto, left; President Young, center, and President Emeritus told delegates July 22. two sons, Vince and Steve, with a rousing James Rademacher, right, stand by Sombrotto bust. Michael J. Critelli, executive chairman of the board of Pitney Bowes standing ovation from delegates as a sister and a key ally on Vote-by-Mail efforts, said we “are under attack from and two daughters joined Sombrotto’s wife nearby. Sombrotto said he was accepting it on behalf misguided environmentalists and privacy advocates.” of his family as well as himself. “The annoyance factor from poor quality, duplicative, poorly “Anything that I ever did could not have been accomplished without the support of my family,” addressed, and unwanted mail is real and valid,” Critelli said. “Together, Sombrotto said. “My wife, Rae, raised our seven children without me being there and every one we need to get mailers to change their behavior and seek out the higher of them turned out the be a diamond.” value opportunities mail presents to us.” Critelli noted that participation increases when vote-by-mail is He also expressed pride in his 12 grandchildren – and 13th on the way – and smiled as a photo substituted for in-person balloting. of them was displayed on giant screens throughout the convention hall. “We need your help in getting more states and counties to move to Sombrotto explained why he had two residences for his entire NALC career, saying his wife no-excuse voting by mail, and ultimately, to a full voting-by-mail system Michael Critelli did not want to move to Washington in 1979 and uproot the children who were by then in school which exists today in Oregon,” he said. in New York. “Together we can accomplish far more than if we try to go our separate ways,” he said. “The National “My wife just wouldn’t hear it. She tolerated the fact that I ran for office, but she wasn’t going Association of Letter Carriers has been a vigorous advocate for sensible approaches to the ‘Do Not Mail’ problem, and has been instrumental in defeating a lot of ill-conceived legislation.” to move to Washington. That was it,” he said. “But we must do more,” he added. “We must collaborate on designing and implementing a communications In introducing Sombrotto and his family, President Young recalled how Sombrotto tapped him and marketing plan, because, while we are winning legislative and regulatory battles, we are not winning the hearts for the National Resident Officer position of assistant secretary-treasurer only a short time after and minds of the public, which has been misled by those who claim mail is bad for the environment.” he became national business agent for Region 1 (San Francisco). He later became vice president, and then executive vice president. “I have been better trained to be the president of this union than any of my 16 predecessors,” Young said “because I had the privilege to work side by side with the greatest president in the Tierney, Capuano Tackle Important Issues history of the NALC, and I’m talking about Vincent R. Sombrotto.” Two members of Congress – Reps. John Tierney and Michael Delegates to the 65th NALC Convention in Las Vegas in 2006 voted to name the headquarters Capuano (both D-MA) gave delegates some inspiring and insightful building after Sombrotto, and the NALC Executive Council decided to have a special bust of remarks during Tuesday’s general session on both the future of the Sombrotto created to be in the first floor lobby. Postal Service and the country as a whole. Along with it will be a plaque that reads: Tierney noted that the Postal Service remains the most trusted JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 government institution in the United States, but said there are 6 BRANCH 34’s CLAN people who are trying to weaken this strong American institution. Vincent R. Sombrotto served as the 16th president of the National Association of Letter Carriers “These misguided critics want to engage in a danger­ from 1979-2002. Born in New York City in 1923, he served in the Navy during World War II and became Rep. John Tierney Rep. Michael Capuano a letter carrier in 1947. ous economic experiment that would take the responsi­ bility of America’s mail out of the hands of the people that we trust and that we know,” Tierney said, In March 1970, despite holding no union office, Sombrotto led thousands of New York letter carriers “and put it into those who were ‘contracted out’ – and my friends, that is an irresponsible piece of on a wildcat strike demanding decent pay and better conditions. The Great Postal Strike spread business that we’re not going to let happen.” nationwide and led directly to passage of the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970 which created the United States Postal Service. Sombrotto was later elected president of NALC Branch 36 in New York Capuano agreed with President Young that America’s middle class is under siege, but said all the blame does City and he served for eight years before becoming National President. not rest with President George W. Bush alone, but with everyone. He said America’s workers should be “screaming, fighting and kicking” for political change. Over seven terms in office as President, Sombrotto transformed the NALC, strengthening its finances with national minimum dues and introducing union democracy with direct membership election The congressman then touched on a topic regarding the upcoming presidential election that is often whispered, of officers. At the bargaining table, he secured the position of letter carriers in the middle class. He but rarely spoken directly. built the sophisticated political and legislative program that yielded political freedom for letter carriers He said NALC members must be ready to challenge anyone who tries to use race – by insinuation or otherwise with the 1993 reform of the Hatch Act and laid the groundwork for postal reform legislation passed a – in the election debate. few years after he left office in 2002. “We all have prejudices. I have prejudices. Anybody who raises race as an issue has to be called A voice of letter carriers at national and international organizations, Sombrotto battled for workers’ on it,” Capuano said. “You have to rise up and tell them, ‘Those days are gone’.” rights on the executive councils of both the AFL-CIO and Union Network International. He also fought for social justice for the less advantaged as he expanded NALC’s fund-raising for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and founded the annual NALC National Food Drive. In recognition of the contributions of President Vince R. Sombrotto to America’s letter carriers and their families, the 65th Biennial Convention of the National Association of Letter Carriers adopted a Delegates Approve Constitutional Amendment resolution to name the NALC National Headquarters Building in his honor. The Vincent R. Sombrotto Building at 100 Indiana Ave. NW in Washington, DC, was rededicated on July 22, 2008.” To Convert Strike Fund to Legislative Action

Joining President Young and other national officers on stage for the ceremony was President Emeritus James Rademacher, who Sombrotto noted, defeated him twice before Sombrotto was successful in 1978 in being elected NALC president. “All that I ever did was to try to improve upon, or to continue to improve upon, the very, very significant progress that was made in this union since its inception in 1889 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin,” Sombrotto said. “Thank you for all the great years that I have enjoyed working for you and trying to accomplish goals that you wanted to be accomplished,” concluded. “I hope and I pray that you’ll continue to do the things that are necessary to make sure that this union – the NALC – continues to be one of the greatest unions in the history of this country.”

Delegates standing to be counted the teller’s vote on a constitutional amendment to convert the Strike Contingency Fund. 7,417 Delegates at Boston Convention (Photo by Mike Shea) After debate, delegates approved on a teller vote of 2,861 to 2,462 an amendment to Article 7, Section 3(d) of Credentials Committee Chair Carol Maggio, Br. 214, San Francisco reported on July 23 that the the NALC Constitution to convert the union’s strike contingency fund into a Legislative and Political Action Fund. final total of registered delegates at the 66th Biennial Convention was 7,417, including 28 national The new fund is to be used by the national president to support the union’s non-partisan political and legislative officers, 72 delegates-at-large and 7,317 branch delegates. activities. The total, coming from branches in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin It will not be used to support political candidates – only voluntary contributions to COLCPE can be used to Islands and Guam, was the eighth largest in history. for such purposes. Instead, the new fund will be used to advocate key legislation (such as EFCA) and to support get-out-to-vote efforts. Branch 34 Celebrates the Holidays!

BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 7 Branch 34 Says Farewell to its Newest Retirees! Brookline’s Tom Jones Wollaston’s Jack Moran and Linda Bogiages-Cobban New Retirees Jack Moran (left) and Linda Bogiages-Cobban (second from right) pose with Branch 34 President Bob Lind and Wollaston Shop Steward Tom Rooney.

Brookline’s Joe DeMambro, Dennis Fitzpatrick and Branch 34 President Bob Lind congratulate Brookline’s finest Tom Jones receives retirement gifts Retiree Tom Jones. as all of his co-workers come out to say goodbye. Roxbury’s Roger Goudreau Linda Bogiages-Cobban with Roxbury Letter Jimmy Burke. Carriers say Jack Moran (of farewell to their Wollaston, formerly of co-worker Hyde Park) says goodbye as Roger Branch 34 President Bob Lind Goudreau. thanks him for his contribution to the Branch. Cambridge - Mooney Street’s Charlie Kelly Roxbury’s Roger Goudreau says goodbye. Cambridge - Mooney Street’s Shop Roger Goudreau gets recognized by Branch 34 President Steward Bob Lind. Billy Crescitelli says goodbye IMC Everett’s Bob Topham to Charlie Kelly. IMC Everett’s Bob Topham shows off Charlie Kelly’s last punch. his new retirement pin and watch. Cambridge - Mooney Street’s Charlie Kelly gets congratulated on his last punch. Needham’s Charles Murray

IMC Everett’s Bob Topham is recognized by Branch 34 President Bob Lind.

Needham’s Charles Murray retires and is congratulated by Weymouth Landing’s Steve Jerrier his co-workers. Roxbury’s John Anastas Weymouth Landing’s Needham’s newest Retiree Charles Murray Steve Jerrier with Shop Steward Mark Cowell. with Kevin McCusker.

Weymouth Landing’s Steve Jerrier with his real boss. :)

John Anastas gets a “letter carrier salute” from Branch 34 President Bob Lind and his Roxbury co-workers. Roxbury’s John Anastas cuts his retirement cake.

Roxbury’s John Anastas listens to accolades “The Chief” Weymouth Landing’s John Hicks and from his co-workers. Branch 34 President Bob Lind congratulate Steve Jerrier on a job well done.

Steve Jerrier shows off his cake which was presented at his retirement party. A larger view of the cake is below.

One last hug.

Roxbury’s Ron Odum says goodbye to John Anastas after singing our National Anthem… and boy, can he sing! Roxbury’s “godfather” John Anastas and his three “sons” – Left to right, Ed Chinetti, Mike Gorham and Joe Frechette.

8 BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 AROUND THE BRANCH Branch 34 Members Participate in Veterans Day Observances

DAV Commander William Hoey once again served as master of ceremonies of the Veterans Day Observances at the GMF Cafeteria in Boston.

The Color Guard heads into the GMF Cafeteria for the Veterans Day Observances.

Malden’s Dan Norton played the bagpipes. Proud Grandpa Retired GMF Letter Carrier Bill Lombardi stands between his two grandsons who played football for The Walpole High School. Veterans Day On the left is Jim Color Guard Lombardi, 6’2”, 225 lbs. was led by and on the right is Mike Medford’s Lombardi, 6.4”, 265 lbs. Greg Serra. Both boys are 16 years old. Grandfather Bill was a longtime contributor to “Branch 34’s CLAN.” President’s Corner (continued from page 2) this writing all TE’s have been given the will increase by 4% resulting in the postal the bottom line. At that point arbitration is Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) opportunity to take the CCA entrance test service contributing 76% in 2016. Also a all we have left. regarding the hiring of CCA’s and the pay and may accept an appointment as a CCA. labor-management task force will be cre- Again a valiant effort was put forth by level they receive. It basically says that if All their TE time served will be applied to ated due to a new MOU which will develop the NALC, but unfortunately arbitrators the current pay scale does not provide suf- relative standing it they choose to accept. alternative Article 21 health care provisions are heavily influenced by recent decisions ficient numbers of CCA’s then the parties CCA’s will be limited to 15% of the aimed at eliminating the premium cost shift and agreements. Nobody walks away (USPS and NALC) can get together and total number of the full-time regular carrier by a mutual agreement. In other words, untouched especially in the economic readdress the current pay scale associated workforce in each district and will allow the the parties will work jointly to explore the landscape we’re faced with today. I do with CCA’s. Their mission would be to ba- USPS to hire an additional 8,000 CCA’s possibility of one health plan run internally believe this panel worked under great re- sically make the entry pay level for CCA’s for the development of new products and that reduces premium cost and increases straints to maintain basically what we’ve more attractive. services (Sunday and evening e-commerce coverage. been accustomed to without stripping us More to follow… delivery). New CCA’s will receive $15 per I know when the news of this contact of our past negotiated entitlements (health hour (Step BB) and TE’s becoming CCA’s initially broke there were in all probabil- benefits, pay raises, COLA’s, etc.…). Dis- Local Negotiations will receive $16.25 per hour (Step AA). ity many TE’s that said WTF! A FIVE appointedly something had to give and it he new contract does spell out that local CCA’s in lieu of COLA’s prior to their ca- PLUS DOLLAR AN HOUR REDUC- appears that the recently-arbitrated COLA’s Tnegotiations will commence on the first reer appointment will receive general wage TION! I would feel the same way, but one deferred payment schedule freeze with no of April and will continue for thirty days. increases of 1% in November of 2013, 1% must understand the involved dynamics. retroactive pay provision language com- The Branch will be assigning representa- in November of 2014 and 1.5% in No- This arbitration panel, despite the efforts, bined with the new CCA entry pay structure tive Branch Officers to each installation vember of 2015 in addition to the already arguments and resources put forth by the gave this board of arbitrators the leverage it to examine each MOU and conduct these provided increases to all bargaining unit NALC, is heavily influenced by recent arbi- needed to appease both parties. In doing so negotiations. employees referred to above. trations and negotiated settlements of other they continued with pay increases, COLA’s In addition, CCA’s will be eligible to postal unions. Also, right or wrong, they and provisions such as the moratorium on Thank You “Mazie” for health insurance after one year and were sympathetic to the financial restraints contracting out as well as maintaining our hank you to Mary “Mazie” Collier the USPS will contribute towards their placed on the Postal Service whether it was no-layoff protections. In today’s economy, Tfor her dedication and hard work over premium. the declining first-class letter or the con- one has to see that we could’ve done much the years with our award-winning “Branch Other provisions include: gressional pre-funding mandate. The fact worse. 34’s CLAN” publication. “Mazie” has • Regular carrier uniform allowance is they look at every aspect and take it into My hope is that the PTF’s are converted elected not to seek the Branch 34 Editor’s • Opting provisions under Article 41 account when formulating their decision. sooner rather than later, the CCA’s do get job in the upcoming Branch election due • Establishment of a 401K Plan with the The arbitrator did make an effort to build the opportunity to join the regular work to personal reasons. She will be missed ability to transfer to the Thrift Savings Plan a career path for these TE’s unfortunately force and that the MOU’s concerning dearly on the Branch 34 Board of Officers once becoming a career employee not all TE’s are looking for a career path the many aspects of carrier life are fruit- of which she has served over the past num- • All PTF’s will all be converted to full- within the postal service. Some are older or ful and alleviate much of the day to day ber of years. We wish her great success in time status over the term of the contract quite content making what they were mak- disharmony. every future endeavor and thank her for a and the category will be eliminated in its ing an hour and perhaps had a spouse pro- One last note on CCA’s: There is a job well done. Best wishes and good health. entirety. viding necessary medical family coverage. The savings provided to the USPS Those that elect to become CCA’s are by the changes experienced within the hopeful that the prospect of “relative stand- H H H H workforce pay restructure allowed the ing” will blossom into a full-time career To Our Troops! arbitration board to retain the contractual path opportunity somewhere down the ban on subcontracting and continue the road for them. I understand completely the Thank You For Your Service existing no-layoff provision that is currently disappointment of an immediate reduction in place which applies to all letter carriers in pay for those electing to become CCA’s with less than six years of service. It also and even more so the separation of all TE’s and Your Sacrifice! secured through a MOU the delivery of new not opting for the CCA positions. This is the competitive products by city letter carriers. risk taken when parties can’t come to terms We’ll see an additional shift in costs during the negotiation process. Unfortu- BRANCH 34 from the Postal Service to City Carriers nately you can’t negotiate with an unwilling concerning health care premiums. Over party especially when contracting out and the life of the contract carrier contributions the layoff provisions are at stake and that’s SUPPORTS YOU!

BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 9 EAP Corner “The Power of Connection” 34 he Power of Connection” will You can use your postal or home email ad- Branch “T explore the many ways we relate dress. Please feel free to share “The Power to others and how improving the qual- of Connection” with your co-workers and ity of those connec- family members and tions can enhance encourage them to

GET YOUR our lives. We will sign up as well. This T Shirt also offer some tools, ePromotion is de- TO BENEFIT tips, and techniques signed to bring some to assist you. reflection, challenge, THE BRANCH 34 An EAP ePromo- and encouragement SCHOLARSHIP tion allows the EAP into your day. FUND to send you periodic emails sharing brief If you would like more information or information to help you actively engage to sign up, please contact me at rrbelisle@ (SIX $1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS in the topic of the ePromotion. The EAP magellanhealth.com AWARDED EACH YEAR) needs you to “sign up” and agree that you would like to participate. By sending me an email, we will be able to add you to the AVAILABLE IN NAVY BLUE & GRAY confidential distribution list. SIZES M-XXXL In “The Power of Connection” ePro- motion, you will receive emails beginning Tuesday, February 5 and on Tuesdays and ORDER YOUR SHIRT Thursdays over the next 7 weeks. ONLY AT THE Your participation is strictly confidential. $ BRANCH 34 JOIN THE NEWLY-FORMED NATIONAL 10 UNION OFFICE LETTER CARRIERS MOTORCYCLE CLUB! EACH 781-281-1133!

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MOVING? Melvin A. Vieira, Sr. Melvin A. Vieira, Jr. Give Branch 34 Two for the Price of One 17 Canton Avenue Your New Address! Milton, MA 02186 617-696-0075 Please fill out send this application to: James Williams, National Letter Carriers Motorcycle Club, c/o NALC, 100 Indiana Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20001 MOVED? Change of Address If you have moved, please notify the Branch directly, Personnel does not notify us of change of addresses. Lafferty & Lafferty Name______Attorneys at Law Address______City/State______Zip______

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10 BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 Tell Your Congressman What You Think! BECOME AN e-ACTIVIST TODAY!

Largest Inventory of Union Postal Uniforms in New England 329 Lynnway, Rt. 1A South, Lynn, MA 01901 781-595-2644 or 800-451-1761 Fax 781-596-1950 [email protected] Walk in, Phone or Fax. Request a catalog.

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BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 11 IMPORTANT!! ALL LETTER CARRIERS Knee and Hip ARTHRITIS is the Silent OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE that No One Tells You About. If You . . . 1. Have had a hip/knee replacement; or 2. Have been diagnosed with leg arthritis; or 3. Have chronically sore knees; or 4. Have had knee surgery for ANY reason; then YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO: SUBSTANTIAL COMP BENEFITS For more information call:

888 NALC Law 888.625.2529 Serving Letter Carriers for Over 30 Years

12 BRANCH 34’s CLAN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013