National Association of Letter Carriers Non-Profit Org. Joseph P. Considine Branch 34 NALC, AFL-CIO U.S. Postage 400 West Cummings Park, Suite 3950 PAID Woburn, MA 01801-6396 Boston, MA Permit No. 54631 Address Service Requested

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BOSTON, MA NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LETTER CARRIERS The Award-Winning Newspaper of Joseph P. Considine Branch 34 NALC, AFL-CIO Volume XLVII, Number 4 August-September 2018

Please check out BRANCH 34’s CLAN the dates, times and locations for all CELEBRATING 128 YEARS OF UNION PARTICIPATION AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS H 1890-2018 upcoming Membership Meetings on the President’s Report BRANCH 34 WEBSITE at Branch 34 Wins Rare NALC Triple Crown nalcbranch34.com here are few prizes in the world as rare est percentage of NALC Union members per To put this Tas a Triple Crown. I’m sure you have all capita in various size locals from small to rivalry into per- heard of horse racing’s Triple Crown which large. At the time of this year’s judging, 97.6 spective, in 2016, requires a three-year-old thoroughbred to percent of nearly 3,000 active Letter Carriers Branch 34 lost in a win the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and working within the Branch 34 jurisdiction photo-finish in the Belmont over a five-week period. Prior to had voluntarily joined our Union. Most Organized

Upcoming Meetings Upcoming recent success of American Pharoah (2015) As a delegate to NALC National Con- Large Branch cat- and Justify (2018), the last winner of horse ventions for the past 16 years, I have seen egory to Branch My Summer Vacation racing’s Triple Crown was Affirmed thirty- first-hand the biennial battle that Branch 34 1071 by one-tenth seven years earlier (1978). has waged every two years with our Broth- of one percent, Page 2 MICHAEL YERKES In baseball’s Triple Crown, a player ers and Sisters from South Florida (Miami) 98.1% to 98.0%. President What Has the Union must lead Major League Baseball (MLB) Branch 1071 and the mere fractions of Branch 34 shared in batting average, runs-batted-in, and percentage points that have separated our the title with Branch 1071 in 2014 with a Done For Me? home runs. This uncommon feat has been locals organizing efforts year after year. (continued on page 9) Page 2 accomplished 17 times in MLB, most recently in 2012, by Detroit’s Miguel Ca- BREAKING NEWS National Level brera. Cabrera’s achievement was the first Grievances Resolved since 1967, when the Red Sox’ own Carl OIG Audit Report Rips Boston Page 3 Yastrzemski topped each category during the Impossible Dream Season. Management’s Time Card Fraud, In the National Association of Letter Car- The Man Behind Our riers, the exceptionally rare achievement of Additionally, Arbitrator Rejects Message being recognized as the best in not only the Page 3 organizing (signing up) of new members, Management’s Phony Timeliness Defense but also the tops in the communicating and By Michael Yerkes, Branch 34 President Now Is The Time To educating those members through multiple channels is no doubt equally impressive. fter more than a year of exhaustive investigation and analysis of literally thou- Change For The Better! All right, perhaps I am a bit overstating Asands and thousands of IMC Chelsea Time and Attendance Collection System Page 4 the comparability of our recent achieve- (TACS) records, we are finally seeing some light at the end of this dark tunnel in the ments with that of the infinitely more fa- history of Boston USPS. I Am. You Are. We Are. miliar Triple Crowns, but we have to start That light comes in the form of two significant waypoints in the probe which began Inside Branch 34’s CLAN 34’s Inside Branch Page 4 somewhere. innocently enough with an unsupported and improper deletion of a members work hours, and which has mushroomed into a one of the largest violation’s in Branch 34 Most Organized Large Branch if not NALC history. Thank You, Detroit! On Wednesday, August 1st, as Branch 34 began the onerous task of presenting our he Most Organized Awards go to Branch- Page 5 (continued on page 8) Tes from across the country with the high- The Definition of Unionism Page 5 Branch 34 Delegates Representing YOU at the NALC 71st Biennial Convention in Detroit! You and Only You Are Responsible For Your Health and Welfare Page 5

Help Is Closer Than You Think! Page 9

Branch 34 Salutes Its Retirees Page 10

T/781-281-1133 F/781-281-1127

nalcbranch34.com See more convention photos on pages 6, 7 and 12. My Summer Vacation nce again I had the honor and privi- came in first this year. ward to working Olege to attend the 71st NALC Con- On Tuesday, Branch 34 received the with Rick in the vention. This year, the convention was award for best website. President Mike future. held in Detroit, Michigan. Once again the Yerkes has worked long and hard to Thursday was convention was a great success not only revamp our website and in its first year, Letter Carrier for NALC, but Branch 34 as well. received this award. Late on Tuesday we Political Fund All the delegates attended each day were awarded first place for best story in (LCPF) Day. KEVIN FLAHERTY of the convention as well as attending the category, Promoting Unionism. I was Almost every Executive Vice President BRANCH 34 the many workshops offered before and the author of this article (reprinted below) delegate present after the convention. The training offered and take great pride in the award. Area wore a blue LCPF T-Shirt. Currently STATION STEWARDS will help the delegates as we return to our Steward Tom Rooney was presented third over 24,000 members contribute to LCPF Allston...... Jack Gomes daily duties in our offices. The workshops place as well in this category. (9%). Rolando once again urged all to Arlington...... Gerald McCarthy offered were many and diverse, form City To complete the awards and the Triple contribute which is a message we take Sean Mullet Delivery to Contract Administration to Crown was the award for General Excel- home. We can and must do better than Auburndale...... Thomas Kierstead False Editing of Clock Rings to Retire- lence among Large Branch Publications. 9%. Food Drive and MDA awards were Back Bay...... Lucy Warren ment Seminars and many more. Once again, “Branch 34’s CLAN” was also presented on Thursday. Mike McCormack President Fredrick Rolando ex- voted number one. This was the sixth On Friday, AFL-CIO President Rich- Belmont...... Salvatore Celeste plained the challenges facing letter car- straight convention we received this ard Trumka spoke. He told delegates that David D’Agostino riers and his plan to combat them. Chief award, covering twelve years. This is a their struggles were not alone. Trumka Braintree DMU...... Richard Fraser among the concerns was a proposal to great tribute to all the editors over the states “the labor movement is strong and Robert O’Donnell privatize the Postal Service. Labor leaders years and our great printer, Stephen determined, and has the back of workers Brighton...... Roshon Butts from many unions pledged their support Hamilton, as well as all those who have everywhere.” He went on to say “this is Brookline...... Joseph DeMambro to letter carriers. Several members of contributed over the years. our time to reclaim America for the people Dean Gonatas Congress from both parties pledged their On Wednesday, President Rolando who built it!” The 71st NALC Convention Cambridge – support as well. called for nominations for national office. was adjourned on Friday afternoon. Central Sq...... William Wilkins In his opening address, Rolando stated The complete list of candidates is listed in I hope everyone made it through the Christopher Nolett “You can count on one thing for sure: the August/September issue of the Postal hot and humid summer and had time to Cambridge – NALC will be at the center of the fight to Record. Several NBA positions were won relax with family and friends. Now is time Porter Sq...... William Cresitelli preserve and strengthen the Postal Service by acclamation with no opponent. Among to continue our fight on a daily basis. We Cohasset...... Judi Aronson for the 21st Century. The NALC will work the NBAs was Rick DiCecca as Region must all stick together to battle the injus- Chestnut Hill...... Thomas Conville against privatization and deregulation 14 National Business Agent. We look for- tices we face in the workplace. Dorchester ...... Vacant while protecting affordable universal ser- East Weymouth...... Artie Matthews vice, the sanctity of the mail, the security Fenway...... Tony Cinelli of America’s mailboxes and letter carriers’ Fields Corner...... James Hudson right to collective bargaining.” Fort Point...... Benny Faletra Along with the many speeches were Thor Hellestedt resolutions and amendments regarding Hingham/Hull...... Michael Bertrand the National Agreement and NALC Con- Hyde Park...... Joseph DeBerardinis IMC – Chelsea...... William Lang stitution discussed and voted on by the IMC – East Boston...... Emelio Leone delegates. Throughout the week there were IMC – Winthrop...... John Fanning presentations and awards to many branches. IMC – Everett...... Tom Ciulla Branch 34 was presented with sev- IMC – Charlestown...... Vacant eral outstanding awards. On Monday, the IMC – Somerville...... John Fucile awards for best organizing rates. Branch Jamaica Plain...Bernadette Romans 34 received the award for best organized Robert Damatin branch for large branches at 97.6%. We J.F.K. Station...... Robert Amirault have been at or near the top in this cat- The Boston Branch 34 Delegation shows off their support for the Letter Carriers Political Fund at the NALC’s 71st Alex Taylor egory for several conventions, but we Biennial Convention in Detroit, Michigan. Please contribute to this fund. Your job depends on it! Kenmore...... Dan Abellard Lexington...... Tony Scrivano John Lucey What Has the Union Done For Me? Malden...... Laura Fahey Chris Dineen By Kevin Flaherty, Branch 34 also provides extensive training to our stewards. Mattapan...... Vacant Branch 34 Executive Vice President We conduct one day training for all new stewards at our Branch Medfield...... Christopher Pacitti (This article is reprinted from the January-February 2018 office whenever needed. We also provided Branch-wide steward Medford...... Jon Holmberg Branch 34’s CLAN and was awarded First Place for Building training twice in 2017 on grievance processing and time clock Stephen White Unionism at this year’s NALC Biennial Convention in Detroit, manipulations. These two training session were attended by Milton...... Robert Leighton Michigan.) most of our stewards and proved informative to all attendees. Needham...... Diane Butera ftentimes we hear “what has the Union done for me?” Well Branch 34 also conducted a seminar on retirement plan- Paul McDonough Othis article will explain what the Union has done for Branch ning. In conjunction with NBA John Casciano and National, a Newton Centre...... David Ward 34 members, particularly as far as grievance work. comprehensive retirement planning seminar addressing many Newton Highlands...... Vacant In calendar year 2017, Branch 34 stewards filed 789 griev- questions, as well as dos and don’ts in planning for retirement Newtonville...... Thomas Duff ances. Six hundred thirty-eight were for contractual issues and was held. (A) Heidi White two hundred eighty-eight were for discipline, ranging from let- Branch 34 also offers Workers’ Compensation advice and North Quincy...... Taylor Brooks ters or warning up to removals. As you can see your stewards representation to injured carriers who seek it. This representation and advice is not utilized by many of our members. As I have North Weymouth...... Mike Davis have been busy. For those unfamiliar with the grievance process I will at- said for many years, members should always call the Branch if Quincy...... John Ainsley tempt to simplify. In a contractual issue the burden is on the injured at work. Michael O’Connor union to prove that Management violated a particular article Branch 34 conducts route inspection training to all stations Revere DMU...... David O’Connor of our national agreement. The burden is by evidence such as undergoing route inspections. Our extremely knowledgeable Melrose...... Corrado Pani statements, documents such as clock hits, contract language, route inspection specialists (Mike Gorham and Rich Galvin) Roslindale...... Adam Difazio JCAM citings, etc. It is not enough to say Management did this. explain the process as well as review the documents essential Roxbury...... John Galvin In the case of discipline the burden falls squarely on manage- for a successful inspection. (There is never really a success- Keith Meredith ment. It is not enough for management to cite an allegation. Man- ful route inspection process, unless you call wasting money, Samie Smith agement must prove the carrier did was he or she was accused of. harassing carriers and rigging the system a success.) Scituate...... Thomas Finegan In the contractual grievances Branch 34 gained a partial or full These are few of the ways in which Branch 34 is working for South Boston...... Michael Kidd settlement in 403 cases. These settlements ranged from cease- you – the members. So next time you hear a carrier say “what is So. Weymouth...... Rusty Craven and-desist orders to monetary awards. The union withdrew the the Union doing for me,” feel free to cite this article. Stoneham...... Joseph Mangano grievance in approximately fifty cases for a variety of reasons. Also, the NALC has settled our contract in 2017. While Waban...... Rich Farrell In fifty-one cases it was determined that there was no contractual many may be unhappy with the settlement, it was ratified by Waltham...... Edward Walsh violation, either at the Step A level or the Step B level. The rest an overwhelming number of NALC members. We all received Colive Heaven of the contractual grievances are still pending. To sum it up, pay raises, cost of living adjustments, continued health and Watertown...... William Huber Branch 34 prevailed in some form or another in two-thirds or retirement benefits. Our CCAs received long overdue pay Wellesley...... Mark Lester our cases, an astonishing success rate. raises, six paid holidays per year, the right to use annual leave Wellesley Hills...... Kevin McMahon We were also successful in the discipline grievances. Two and other benefits. Weston...... David Demarco hundred forty letters of discipline were either expunged entirely, So instead of complaining about what the Union does for you, West Newton...... Vacant reduced in time served, or reduced in the extent, for example a hop on board for the ride! For those few non-members (whatever West Roxbury...... Michael Walter seven day suspension reduced to a letter of warning. Once again, the reason) join us! For those stations without a steward, join us Stephen Tinglof congratulations on a job well done. and become a steward. For those not signed up as an E-Activist, Weymouth Landing....Mario Venturelli We still have several stations without stewards. As you can join us! For those not contributing to the Letter Carrier Political Woburn...... Vigo Conte see we will provide stewards the tools to be successful. So if Fund, join us! Fred Casey anyone is interested in becoming a steward in those stations NALC is the greatest Union in our country and Branch 34 is Wollaston...... Thomas Rooney, Jr. please step up and let us know. the greatest Branch in the NALC! Join us!

2 BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 BOSTON, MA National Level Grievances Resolved NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LETTER CARRIERS number of outstanding grievances than 60 days from the date of this the holidays that A were resolved by the national parties agreement. had already hap- recently. Article 15.4.D of our National 4. Conversions of CCAs to career pened. BRANCH 34’s CLAN Agreement allows for certain issues to be status referenced in item 1 above The old con- 400 WEST CUMMINGS PARK, SUITE 3950 resolved at the national level. The provi- are in addition to conversions to tract expired in WOBURN, MA 01801-6396 sion states: residual vacancies pursuant to the May of 2016 T/781-281-1133 F/ 781-281-1127 D. National Level Arbitration Memorandum of Understanding, and the new one Founded May 1971 1. Only cases involving interpretive Re: Full-time Regular Opportuni- wasn’t ratified AWARDS issues under this Agreement or supple- ties - City Letter Carrier Craft. until August of International Labor ments thereto of general application will As a point of reference the Boston in- 2017. Within that MICHAEL MURRAY Communications Association Secretary-Treasurer be arbitrated at the National level. stallation is a 200 workyear office. It’s not time frame there GENERAL EXCELLENCE – Fortunately the three grievances out- just your individual station by itself but were eight holidays that would’ve been LOCAL UNION PUBLICATIONS – lined below didn’t have to be arbitrated all the stations that comprise the Boston paid holidays under the new agreement. CIRCULATIONS of 2,500 to 9,999 and were resolved jointly prior to arbitra- installation together. That includes all the Obviously we took the position that they First Place, 2003 tion. The first issue involved a dispute on stations from Stoneham out to Waltham should be paid and the PO took the posi- National Association of the number of CCAs that are employed. and down to South Weymouth and every- tion that they shouldn’t be. Unlike the Letter Carriers It was resolved in the following manner: thing in between. Fortunately our CCAs other provisions of the new contract this BEST ORGANIZED – 1. CCAs in 200 workyear offices with are being converted within 30 months so new language did not specify whether or LARGE BRANCH 30 months or more of relative stand- item number one doesn’t apply to anyone not those holidays would be paid retroac- First Place, 2018 ing on September 1, 2018, will be here. But item number two applies to a tively or not so a national level grievance First Place (tie), 2014 converted to full-time regular career number of our CCAs in our Associate was filed and it was resolved in the fol- GENERAL EXCELLENCE – status in their installation. Offices (AOs). They will be converted lowing manner: LARGE BRANCH PUBLICATIONS – 2. CCAs in offices below 200 work- to PTFs and thus to career status which Employees who were on the rolls as MORE THAN 1,500 MEMBERS years with 30 months or more of means they’ll be vested in all the benefits CCAs on Christmas Day 2016 (Decem- First Place, 2018 relative standing on September 1, career employees enjoy. ber 25), New Year’s Day 2017 (January First Place, 2016 First Place, 2014 2018, will be converted to part-time The 2016-2019 National Agreement 1). Memorial Day 2017 (May 29), and First Place, 2012 flexible career status in their instal- awarded CCAs six paid holidays: New Independence Day 2017 (July 4), and First Place, 2010 lation. Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence remain on the rolls as a CCA or career city First Place, 2008 3. The conversion to career status Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and letter carrier as of the date of this agree- First Place, 2002 under items 1 and 2 above will be Christmas Day. A dispute arose when im- ment, will receive holiday pay pursuant First Place, 1996 effective as soon as administratively plementing the new agreement on wheth- to Article 11.8 of the 2016-2019 National First Place, 1994 Second Place, 2006 practicable, but will occur no later er or not CCAs got paid retroactively for Agreement for the above-mentioned Second Place, 1992 dates. Third Place, 2004 The third grievance that was resolved Honorable Mention, 1982 The Man Behind Our Message was for the delay in retroactive pay ad- Judges’ Commendation, 1988 By Bobby Damatin, for his article entitled, “The Definition of justments to CCAs who were converted BEST EDITORIAL OR COLUMN Editor, “Branch 34’s CLAN” Unionism.” to career status from November 26, 2016 Honorable Mention, 2016 t the NALC National Convention in But, there is another reason why we through August 7, 2017. I know this ap- BEST STORY ADetroit, Michigan in July, Branch 34 are so successful in delivering this ex- plies to a number of our CCAs because First Place, 1996 once again received many awards and cellence to our readership, and it comes I talked too many of them when the Third Place, 1990 accolades that our local organization from someone who you won’t read payments didn’t come. That dispute was 2 Honorable Mentions, 1992 should be very proud of. In the category about in our articles, or see pictures of adjudicated in the following manner: Honorable Mention, 1990 for NALC’s Best Publication, branches him at different happenings within our After reviewing this matter, we mu- BEST CARTOON OR PHOTO from every part of the United States en- Branch. But he is just as important as tually agree that employees who were First Place, 2006 tered to be judged for General Excellence, any contributor to “Branch 34’s CLAN.” converted to career status during the PROMOTING UNIONISM and for Best Articles, that are contained Stephen Hamilton, from Union Print- retroactive payment period of the 2016 First Place, 2018 in those issues. I am very proud to report works in Hyde Park, Massachusetts, has collective bargaining agreement and re- Third Place, 2018 that “Branch 34’s CLAN” was once again been our printing guru for as long as I can Third Place, 1992 main in the city carrier craft as of the date Judges’ Commendation, 1988 selected, in the Large Branch or State As- remember. His superb attention to detail, of this agreement will receive a lump sum, sociation category, the best publication coupled with his creative eye, and his less any applicable taxes and deductions, BEST WEBSITE in the NALC. We also received awards Job-like patience when trying to meet a as indicated below: First Place, 2018 for two articles on Unionism, which first “go-to-press” deadline, delivers a high- • Former City Carrier Assistants BRANCH 34’s CLAN is the Official Publication of Branch 34 of the National Association of Letter Carriers, place went to Executive Vice President quality, attention-grabbing publication that (CCA) with a conversion date to AFL-CIO. The Boston Branch was Chartered by the Kevin Flaherty for his article “What enhances our message to our readership. career status prior to February 18, NALC on June 18, 1890. Has the Union Done For Me?”, and third And it’s not just Boston Branch Members 2017, who did not receive retroactive BRANCH 34’s CLAN is published six times each year. It presents the various issues of the day that are of place went to Area Steward Tom Rooney that appreciate it. At the Convention, payment for their time worked as a concern to the membership. The views and opinions Brothers and Sisters from all parts of the CCA on February 23, 2018, will expressed in the articles and columns do not necessarily country were letting me know how much receive a lump sum of $50.00 less reflect the official position of the NALC Branch 34 or Congratulations its officers, but rather those of the author. they enjoy our paper, with others wanting any applicable taxes and fees. Any articles submitted for publication in BRANCH Retirees a copy right on the spot, and still others • Former CCAs with a conversion 34’s CLAN must be typewritten, double-spaced and seeking to be put on our mailing list! date to career status between Feb- received at the Branch office no later than the close n behalf of President Yerkes, the of business on the first of the month of publication: Steve’s proficiency in his craft is sec- ruary 18, 2017, and May 27, 2017, January, March, May, July, September, and November. Board of Officers and the Brothers The Editor reserves the right to amend articles and/or O ond to none, and is always at the ready who did not receive retroactive pay- and Sisters of Branch 34, we extend our delay their publication due to the limited availability with his generosity in helping us piece ment for their time worked as a CCA of space. wishes for a long, happy, healthy and together our articles, pictures, and ad- on February 23, 2018, will receive Permission is hereby granted for the REPRINTING of well-deserved retirement to the following any article that originates in this paper provided an vertising, which is indispensable. In just a lump sum of $100.00 less any ap- recently retired members: appropriate credit line also appears and a copy of the under the three years that I have been the plicable taxes and fees. reprint in its new publication is sent to: Editor, NALC Eileen Barden...... Weymouth Landing Branch 34, 400 West Cummings Park, Suite 3950, editor, Steve has taught me a lot about get- • Former CCAs with a conversion Woburn, MA 01801-6396. Linda S. Berry...... Quincy ting a quality newspaper to print, and I am date to career status after May 27, BRANCH 34’s CLAN enters the Postal Service as Cynthia R. Carney...... Weston very grateful for all that he does. I believe 2017, who did not receive retroactive third-class, non-profit material. Any change of address I speak for all of our Branch Officers, as should be sent to: Editor, NALC Branch 34, 400 West Robert J. Coner...... Braintree payment for their time worked as a Cummings Park, Suite 3950, Woburn, MA 01801-6396. well as the Membership of Branch 34 Michael A. Courage...... IMC-Everett CCA on February 23, 2018, will Robert Damatin, Editor Dennis J. Curtin...... Revere in thanking Stephen Hamilton for all of receive a lump sum of $150.00 less Michael Yerkes, Associate Editor Stephen I. DiRoberto...... IMC-Everett his years of dedication to our cause as a any applicable taxes and fees. Kevin Flaherty, Associate Editor Union, and helping our publication to be Thomas F. Dunn...... Woburn The payments for the last two griev- the very best it can be! ance settlements are to be paid as soon as 2016-2019 BRANCH 34 NALC Dennis P. Fitzpatrick...... Lexington BOARD OF OFFICERS Thanks Steve, and we look forward administratively practicable. Jane M. Garchinsky...... Woburn Michael Yerkes President to working with you for many years to I hope everyone had a good summer John J. Gorham...... Roxbury Kevin Flaherty Executive Vice President come! and if you should have any questions Bob Simpson Vice President Joseph P. Guiducci...... Weymouth Landing (Kevin Flaherty and Tom Rooney’s about any of these grievances or anything Michael Murray Secretary-Treasurer Bruce N. MacDonald...... Malden award-winning articles have been re- Michael Gorham Financial Secretary else please give me a call at the Branch Robert Damatin Editor Christine B. Malany...... Wellesley Hills printed for this issue.) office. Bernadette Romans Area Steward Salvatore J. Morando...... Porter Square Tom Rooney Area Steward Tony Scrivano Area Steward John E. Nickerson ...... Lexington Laura Wood-Fahey Area Steward Michael D. O’Brien...... Melrose ATTENTION RETIRED LETTER CARRIERS: Joseph DeMambro Health Benefit Officer Kevin M. Ring...... Braintree Benny Faletra Sergeant-at-Arms Anyone who meets the 50 year requirement Lawrence Last Clerk, MBA/NSBA Timothy A. Russell...... IMC-Somerville Paul Roche Chairman, Trustees Elaine M. Saia...... Auburndale to receive a GOLD CARD, please contact the Wanda Hamm Trustee Vigo Conte Trustee Gerald F. Sullivan ...... North Quincy Union Office at 781-281-1133 to provide Lindoro C. Tescione...... Fort Point and receive more information. 208 Lawrence A. Walker.....Newton Highlands

BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 3 Now Is The Time To Change For The Better! ake a look around your office and our money by deceptively changing are currently running is nothing less And, even Tyou can see a lot of new faces that clock rings in TACS, does not make than destructive. The obvious to all of with all of these have joined the United States Postal this job anymore attractive to prospec- us is the lying, cheating, and stealing. things working Service within the last few years. What tive workers, or promote confidence in The Das Arbitration has sped up our against us, we might be surprising is that the retention current employees. current downward spiral when start- rise each morn- of those people is eclipsed by the amount Now, take another look around your ing pay plummeted to around $15 an ing to do the of people that never made it into our office for another type of employee. hour. And taking away the Part-Time very best work BOBBY DAMATIN ranks. A majority of these people were You will see those who have some gray Flexible position, and replacing it with anybody could, “Branch 34’s CLAN” Editor to be hired as letter carriers, and being in hair, a few too many wrinkles on their the non-career, lousy benefits, CCA and give our this craft, we understand this job is not forehead, and a tired look in their eyes. position, has also contributed to the customers the best service that anyone for everybody. The day-to-day grind of These are the people that management degradation of retaining new employ- can, and when I say our customers love walking a route, climbing up and down should be most concerned about in the ees, and attracting potential employees us for that, that’s the truth. If only man- stairs, climbing in and out of vehicles, coming years, because they are going to this skilled workforce. And, there is agement would drag themselves out of and the hundreds of other mundane to do something that could potentially no longer an exam to qualify for this the Stone Age, and figure out that taking things we need to do in this job does make the place that we work an even very professional position It was useful care of the people we serve, and making not make this the career path people more uncomfortable, and unattractive in vetting out individuals that this job our work environment a place where dream of. Coupled with management place of employment. wasn’t meant for. Our Letter Carrier Pay people want to come to, then, and only lying about their numbers, cheating, It is no mystery that we have an aged Schedule has more steps than the Bunker then will this institution thrive. during route inspections, and stealing workforce, and within the next half a Hill Monument, and it takes our junior Today, we are in the epicenter of dozen years or so, that aging workforce employees a long time to reach a fair the way people shop online, so the is going to begin retiring. It is believed wage that they can support themselves USPS should be doing everything in within the federal government 30 to 35% and their families with. With minimum its power to make sure one of the best Don’t Be A SCAB! of the current workforce will be closing wage jobs increasing in some places to middle class, blue collar jobs continues Urge them to pay their fair in on the sunset of their careers. $15+ an hour, starting at $18 an hour to to serve our loving American public. share and join Branch 34! The United States Postal Service do the tedious, grinding work of a Letter Cutting routes, cutting pay, and lying, struggles to attract new employees to Carrier, the USPS is losing potential can- cheating, and stealing will make us the Back Bay this business as it is, and with those kinds didates to the likes of BJ’s, CVS, IKEA, next Polaroid! THOMAS N. CONCANNON of numbers looming in the not to distant and other less physically demanding Growing this business should be a CHRISTOPHER A. DOUGLAS future, management needs to seriously and less skilled labor. Let me think, do vested interest of management, and our ROBERT A. ROMIKITIS evaluate if the current way they do busi- I stack toilet paper on the shelves, or do long term goals should be on a similar ness will help replace our retirees, attract I toil in the heat and cold, then be sub- path. Attracting qualified people, with Braintree qualified individuals to take their place, jected to lying, cheating, and stealing? great working conditions, wages and DAVANTE I. EKLAND...... CCA and expand and diversify the USPS into And if those job are worth paying that, benefits, and dignity and respect is the MOLLY LONG more services our customers will need then shouldn’t our more senior people be only way to proceed. With a workforce well into the 21st Century, and beyond. making more? I think we all know what that will be in flux in the not too distant Brookline As of right now, the game plan they the answers to those questions! future, the time to act is now! CHRISTINE M. BAILEY LINDA M. HAZELL Cambridge – Porter Square I Am. You Are. We Are. BLANCA I. TEEBAGY am a Jeopardy fan. I enjoy going approval rating by the public; higher than cal call to 911 Chelsea Carrier Annex (IMC) I home, eating dinner with my family any other government agency. You deliver for emergencies SANDRA GIORDANO and watching the show. Not a lot of rules to your customers no matter the weather. with countless to follow. The host gives you the answer Sure there are other crafts, but you are carriers being Dorchester Center and all you need to do is come up with where the rubber meets the road. Rain, everyday heroes CARMEN TEJEDA-DIAZ the question. The harder the question, the sleet and snow, you handle customer com- all over the coun- more money you win. Let’s play Jeopardy, plaints, sloppy circulars, crappy vehicles try. We are the TONY SCRIVANO Area Steward Fenway the Union version, with your host Tony and angry dogs. You get the job done, NALC. BEVERLY A. SCANLON Scrivano. Cue the music. no matter the obstacle. Give yourself a We vote for politicians who represent Let’s start with an easy $100 question. hand. Anyone who doesn’t think you are us in Congress. We raise money for those Fort Point The answer is I am. The question is: Who the backbone of this organization is truly that fight for our issues against those who WAYNE J. CHIN is your Area Steward? I am. I am one mistaken. Without you there is no Postal could take it all away with the stroke of a of four Area Stewards for the branch. I Service. Never let anyone tell you oth- pen. We do that through the Letter Carrier Hingham-Hull represent you at the Formal A meetings. erwise. Without you moving the mail to Political Fund. Your contributions enable MARK J. DION If you read my last article (and I know millions of people every day, there would letter carriers to take time off work to meet you did), you’ll know that Formal A is be no Post Office. You are the professional with congressional leaders to insure our Malden the second step in the grievance proce- letter carrier. You are the organization. voices are heard and our rights are pro- EILEEN M. FINN dure. You have graciously selected me Management doesn’t deliver the mail. tected, without political bias based only to that position. I appreciate that you had You do. Without you, there’s nothing. on issues that affect every letter carrier, not Medford the confidence to allow me to represent You’re great at this game, but the parties. We do that. You and I, the Union. GERALD M. LYTES you. As your representative, I am tasked question gets harder. So, let’s make this “A rising tide lifts all boats.” ~ JFK. to defend the contract and your rights a true Daily Double and risk it all. The Just as we fight to protect our individual Milton under the National Agreement. When answer is WE are. The question is: Who rights, we as a Union, must fight to pro- CHARLES S. ROSEN a grievance is filed at your station and is the Union? There are times I go into tect the rights of every carrier. United we your steward can’t get the resolution stations and a carrier says, “Here comes stand. Putting a fellow carrier down does Needham they want, your grievance gets sent to the Union.” Well I’m here to tell you that not raise your level, it only lessens theirs. TAMI L. JOHNSON the Formal A level. The process is set up carrier is only partially correct. I also We are not just members of Branch 34 to defend your rights. hear,” This isn’t really a Union station.” or NALC members; WE are the Labor Newton Highlands You have all sorts of rights you may not That carrier is incorrect. Every station in Movement. Organized labor raises the ROBIN I. DEVITTO use or even know you have. You’re right Branch 34 is a Union station. The level wages and benefits for the entire area. to have a steward present is paramount of unionism in each station is made up of Union membership raises everyone’s Scituate when a letter carrier is being investigated the commitment of each member in that level. We must get everyone on board. KAREN M. LYNCH for some alleged offense. You have the station to stand in unity with their broth- Non-members receive the same wages right to a fair days pay for a fair days work. ers and sisters. A station’s unionism is and benefits that the rest of us made Stoneham You’re honest and hard work should not determined by what each member allows. possible by the power of collective bar- TINA M. DOHERTY be stolen by some brazen supervisor who What you allow is what will continue. I gaining. That’s why we pay dues. Being needs to make the numbers by stealing told you this was difficult. WE are the a Union member is kind of like joining Waltham your time and money. That to me is plain Union. a gym. You wouldn’t stand silent and DAVID BAHM old theft. Those supervisors shouldn’t be “An injury to one, is an injury to all.” watch a non-member have access to all JAMES M. BREWSTER...... CCA hidden away in some remote office, they ~ Coates. We must not allow management the equipment; so, speak to those non- KELLY M. GREEN-GALLO should be locked up. You should have the to injure our members. We must stand to- members and encourage them to pay JOSEPH REGNA...... CCA ability to come to work, do your job and gether and fight for each other. We all have their share. That gym membership won’t go home with no hassle. It’s simple. That’s differences, but we all are letter carriers. do much good if you don’t show up and We apologize in advance if your name appears on this scab list in error. This what I strive for. All day. Every day. We are the Union, collectively. We raise exercise; same with the Union……..show information is forwarded to us from our Moving on to the $500 question, these money for MDA. We fight against that up to the meetings, learn your contractual National Headquarters and we do our get tougher as we move up. The Answer horrible disease that afflicts so many. We rights and exercise them. Knowledge is best to ensure its accuracy. If you are is: You are. The question is: Who is a collect food for the Letter Carrier Food Power. WE are the Union and we must all still not in the Union, it’s time to step professional letter carrier? You are. You Drive. That’s our food drive. That’s our share the costs, the responsibilities and the up and pay your fair share. No excuses. are what makes the Postal Service what Contact your Station Steward to join give back to our local community. We rewards. No one rides for free. We need to NOW! it is, the most trusted government agency watch over the customers on our routes; lift each other up. Together. United. by far. The Postal Service has an 88% we are the eyes, ears and often the criti- Stay safe! 4 BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 Thank You, Detroit! must admit, I was very skeptical when city. The people of Detroit wear their phenomenal. the UAW’s I hearing our 71st Biennial Convention union label as a badge of honor. They While attending the convention, I did membership has was being held in Detroit, Michigan. If take extreme pride in being called union a little research about the history of the increased by you listen to the news, one would think workers!! Detroit’s Branch 1 should hold union movement in Detroit, and here is a roughly 3%. Detroit was a war zone. This couldn’t be their collective heads high for putting on brief summary of what I learned. During With jobs further from the truth. The streets were a fantastic convention. The Cobo Center, the twentieth century, Detroit was con- starting to trick- clean. The Police Department made us which housed the convention, was noth- sidered one of the most powerful union le back from TOM ROONEY feel safe, and well protected. The one ing less than spectacular. The amenities cities in the country. Organized labor has overseas, my Area Steward thing that stood out was the strong were first class, and the views of the existed in Detroit since the formation of hopes are that spirit of unionism consumed by this river separating the US and Canada, were the craft unions for typographers and the workers filling these positions stop cordwainers, (a fancy name for shoe- and look at how much being a card- makers), in the 1830s. Detroit claimed carrying union member benefits the its status as a union powerhouse when well-being of their lives. Its time for all The Definition of Unionism 200 delegates from auto plants all over unions to come together and educate the United States, held their first con- the new generations on the benefits of By Tom Rooney, Branch 34 Area Steward vention in 1935. This convention gave organized labor. (This article is reprinted from the June-July 2017 Branch 34’s CLAN and was birth to what is now known as the UAW, In closing, I would like to take this awarded Third Place for Building Unionism at this year’s NALC Biennial Conven- (United Auto Workers). On December opportunity to thank all the members of tion in Detroit, Michigan.) 30, 1936, the UAW called for its first Branch 34 for allowing me to represent nionism, as defined, is the policies and practices of organized Labor Unions. sit-down strike at the GM auto plant, them as a delegate at the National Con- ULabor Unions were created to help the American worker with issues pertain- in Flint, Michigan. The strike ended 43 vention. ing to working conditions, such as low pay, unsafe working conditions, and long days later, when GM agreed to negotiate As always: hours. It is said that the unions were the ones who created the “Weekend.” with the union. Over the following de- Buy Union Products, Fly Union First, let’s take a look at some background on Unions. In 1886, the American cades, the UAW has successfully negoti- Airlines and always stay Union Strong! Trade and Labor Union was the first union to be founded in the United States. ated many of the same benefits such as For my fellow Asian union brothers Today, most union workers recognize them as the AFL-CIO. All of us Brothers pensions, and health insurance, that we and sisters: and Sisters that make up the National Association of Letter Carriers are members as letter carriers, enjoy today. During its 购买工会产品，乘搭工会航空公 of the AFL-CIO. We share some great company belonging to the AFL-CIO. Not peak, the UAW had over 1.5 million card 司，永远支持工会 only are we allied with our sister union the APWU, but right below us on the carrying union workers. Unfortunately, And my Spanish speaking brothers registry of affiliated unions is the NFLPA (The National Football League Play- with the financial collapse in the early and sisters: ers Association). That’s right; we share something in common with Tom Brady, 2000s the UAW membership has fallen ¡Compre productos de Union, Fly and the Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots. Over the past fifty years, to roughly 350,000 members. But things Union Airlines y permanezca Union the number of union workers has diminished greatly. Back in the 1950s, the are on the rise. Over the past two years, Strong siempre! American work force consisted of 35 percent unionized labor. Sadly, today that rate has drop to only 11.3 percent. This means over 88 percent of the workers in the United States are “Employees at Will.” These workers have no recourse to object to their discipline or removals. Basically, businesses do not have to adhere You and Only You Are Responsible to the principles of “Just Cause” when firing a worker. Fortunately for us, the National Agreement under Article 16 requires manage- For Your Health and Welfare! ment to satisfy the seven steps of “Just Cause” before they can impose discipline, ell Brother and Sisters of Branch 34 Washington, DC or issue a removal to any Letter Carrier. Over the past six months, during my du- Wsummer is almost over and I hope where there are ties as your Area Steward, I have noticed that management is getting bolder and that your time away from work was enjoy- no carrier cases braver with deliberately violating the contract. I have come across many situations able with friends and family. and the letter car- where management is intentionally violating Article 8 to avoid paying penalty Now let’s talk about delivering the riers are collating overtime, or downright just deleting carriers overtime altogether. It appears to me mail this summer especially if this was their mail on a they have developed a lack of respect for this union’s workers. When management your first summer as a Letter Carrier. table. Let’s just disrespects one of us, they disrespect all of us. The time has come for all of us to It was HOT! HOT! HOT! I hope that say this probably stand together as one! In early June, I had the pleasure of attending a seminar at you took your break out on the street and not going to work the Plumber Union Hall (Local 12).The topic was “Unlocking the Mysteries of if needed on some days that you took because the carri- WANDA HAMM ‘Just Cause’.” The presentation was given by author Robert Schwartz. During the extra water breaks in the shade or a cool ers are spending Trustee question and answer period I heard many stories from different union leaders that place because of the extreme weather 12-14 hours per day on the route. The sounded very familiar. It seemed to me; that all the unions are experiencing the conditions. Corporate was actually sug- other pilot was a four-in-one carrier cases. same struggles pertaining to working conditions. Management wants everyone to gesting that you take extra precaution on After a route is set up they change the rack do more, while getting paid less. This is certainly not what the AFL had in mind extremely hot and humid days such as strip for another route which tells me that when they organized their first union. hydrating yourself every fifteen minutes they will have maybe one or two carriers Brothers and Sisters, it’s time to go back to what made Unions Strong in the or so. How do I know this – every time setting up routes and other carriers just first place. Every union member needs to be active in some capacity if we are that you logged onto your scanner there delivering the mail for eight hours. YOU going to survive. Strength in numbers is the only way to achieve this. During the was a safety message from corporate. So JUST CAN’T MAKE STUFF LIKE upcoming choice vacation period, I would like all Branch 34 members to take a maybe you might have returned back to THIS CAN YOU. moment to realize what this great union has accomplished for us. the office five, ten, even fifteen minutes I would like to congratulate Kevin Having a pension, 13 sick days a year, and five weeks of vacation are some later than usual and what happens, you’re Flaherty and Tom Rooney for winning benefits that most workers in the United States can only dream of. In my opinion, questioned by your supervisor – why you awards for their articles in Branch 34’s having sick leave protection, or getting paid to do whatever I want are pretty damn are late returning? ARE THEY SERI- CLAN, and to the CLAN winning first good accomplishments. OUS!!!! It’s 100 degrees outside, with prize once again for best publication for The union, through the contract, also assures us that when a situation arises high humidity. I’m lugging this mail, I’m large branch category. Great job to all that pertaining to disciplining a Letter Carrier, management must reach the high bar taking my breaks, drinking water doing contributed to the CLAN and to Bobby of “Just Cause” before the action can be upheld. Non-union workers (employees overtime and I take a few extra breaks to Damatin, the editor. Branch 34 was also at will) don’t have these types of rights. They can be terminated for any cause, at rehydrate so I won’t have heat exhaustion awarded best organized-large branch. To any time, by their employer. or worse and be taken to the hospital. As Kevin Flaherty congrats, but I would In closing, I think it’s time for all Unions to come together and start selling the a letter carrier, you and only you are also like to thank Cindy Neas and Tom product of unionism. If we don’t, and business succeeds in breaking the unions, responsible for your health and welfare. Connors from Branch 18 who also signed then we all can kiss our weekend’s goodbye! I hope every member gets a chance As you know when summer comes up new CCAs in the Brockton Academy. to take a much-needed vacation. Enjoy the summer! around, so does 99’s. The yearly walk I would also like to thank the Good Start about with your supervisor to see if your instructors in the Greater Boston District route is eight hours and that you are doing who also play an important role of com- your job professionally. It’s so special to municating how important it is to join the In Memoriam see management follow behind you with union and making it stronger. a clipboard counting your steps (they are Finally to all the carriers that are not in not to pace you out on the street) seeing the union but benefits from its hard labor William J. Byrne Harold J. Courage, Jr. whether you are taking the proper short- to bargain for your rights and benefits Active Member – Jamaica Plain Retired Member – Malden cuts to the next delivery. This is your time let me leave you with this message from to protects routes to be honest we should Sue Carney from the American Postal John P. Fraher Richard J. Jennings be protecting our routes every day. Worker, March/April 2014. “At the core, Retired Member – Chestnut Hill Retired Member – Hingham Well the convention in Detroit has Labor unions (we) are working men and come and gone. The City of Detroit is women, unified as one force. Despite James J. Nabstedt * Francis C. Rice bouncing back nicely from its downturn any personal differences that may exist Retired Member – Roxbury Retired Member – West Roxbury recession. It’s unimaginable what man- between us, we have banded together to agement is coming up with to get the protect and improve the lives of workers. * Denotes Gold Card Member carriers out the door quicker. Some of We rise up together for the greater good. the pilot programs that headquarters have We defend on another like family.” Rest in Peace started are case-less carrier routes. That’s (Excerpted from “We’re Not a Fee-for- right case-less carrier routes. Pilot out of Service Organization.”) BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 5 Branch 34 Shines at the Detroit NALC Convention

Boston Branch 34 helps assemble Care Packages for Homeless Veterans at the NALC National Convention in Detroit.

Delegates at the NALC’s 71st Biennial Convention in Detroit, Michigan give U.S. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) a Letter Carriers Cheer as thanks for her powerful address.

AFL-CIO National President Richard Trumka gives a powerful message to the delegates at the NALC National Convention in Detroit.

6 BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 NALC National President Fredrick Rolando gets things started at the 71st Biennial Convention in Detroit, Michigan.

BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 7 OIG Audit Report Rips Boston Management’s Time Card Fraud, Additionally, Arbitrator Rejects Management’s Phony Timeliness Defense… (continued from page 1) year-plus long grievance investigation thoroughly dismissed management’s The majority of those dozen or so employees at the Chelsea Carrier Annex and evidence at arbitration to Regional baseless threshold arguments finding grievances I reference are the result of to determine whether timecards were ad- Arbitrator Katherine Morgan, a task that ‘without prejudging the case, the the other significant event which occurred justed in accordance with Postal Service made even harder with the predictable clock ring violations alleged, constitute recently, that being the August 2nd release policy. We received these examples from posturing by management’s advocates continuing violations, if proven on the of the much anticipated USPS’s Office of NALC officials.” as they try to weasel their way out of the merits. Although the alleged violations Inspector General (OIG) Audit Report. H H H H H H H H righteousness of making the employees go back to 2010, the fourteen-day period As you may or may not be aware, in “Supervisors in the Greater Boston whom they stole from, whole. is met, based upon the above discussed September 2017, I contacted Congress- District did not systemically adjust time- As expected, management’s sole de- facts of this case, because the grievance men Michael Capuano and Stephen cards in accordance with Postal Service fense to their abhorrent actions appears was filed within a fourteen-day period of Lynch seeking their assistance in getting policy. Specifically, 89 percent (177 of limited to raising at hearing, threshold when the Union “learned or should have the Postal Service’s OIG to investigate 199) of PS Forms 1017-A for 177 were issues challenging the timeliness and ar- reasonably been expected to learn of its this massive breach of postal regulations not completed or maintained as required bitrability of the grievance itself, asserting cause” as required by Article 15.2{a} The after their initial refusal to get involved when employee time is disallowed. Of the essentially that those hundreds of effected grievance is arbitrable....’ and at their insistence, the OIG grudgingly 22 forms received, 50 percent (or 11) were members deprived of their hard earned While I fully expected this result, agreed to conduct an ‘audit’ starting in missing key required information, such pay ‘knew or should have known that anyone familiar with the arbitration pro- February of this year. You’ll notice I said as the date the supervisor notified thee management was covertly deleting their cess knows that nothing is guaranteed. ‘audit’ and not ‘investigation,’ more on employee and/or the reason for disallow- time’. While this tact was not unexpected, What this means for IMC grievances is that later. ing the time. In addition, we determined it is nonetheless infuriating. that we will now be allowed to continue The following are some of the high- supervisors at one facility deleted 30 presenting the mountains of evidence of lights of the OIG’s August 2, 2018 Audit employee clock rings and extended 20 em- More Breaking News management’s time deletions. What that Report which Members may read in total ployee lunch times without any supporting ust prior to going to press, Branch 34 means for the dozen or so other grievances on our website: documentation to justify the adjustment. Jreceived the decision from Arbitra- advancing through the process is less “The scope of our audit included time- Further, we referred these issues to our tor Katherine Morgan in which she clear, but it certainly doesn’t hurt. card adjustments for letter carriers at the Office of Investigation….” following 13 sites in the Greater Boston H H H H H H H H District that resulted in disallowed time “Improperly removing employee time from April 1, 2015, through September could lead to grievances and potential 30, 2017. We assessed whether these ad- fines and penalties. We identified 470 justments were made in accordance with hours that equated to $20,345 in unpaid H To Our Troops! H Postal Service policy. wages due to supervisors not properly ■ Allston Station documenting timecard adjustments. This Thank You For ■ Brighton Station amount represents $19,837 in unpaid ■ Brookline Branch wages to carriers and city carrier assis- ■ Central Square Main Post Office tants (CCA) for disallowed time and $508 Your Service ■ Chelsea Carrier Annex in unpaid wages for deleted clock rings ■ Fort Point Station and extended lunch times. During FY and Your Sacrifice! ■ Jamaica Plain Station 2017, four grievances were filed against ■ Medford Branch the Postal Service regarding unauthor- ■ Revere Carrier Annex ized timecard adjustments. One of the ■ Stoneham Branch grievances is a class action and pending NALC BRANCH 34 ■ Waltham Branch resolution and the remaining three were ■ Weston Branch settled. ■ Weymouth Branch The Postal Service could also be as- SUPPORTS YOU! Additionally, we reviewed 30 deleted sessed fines and penalties of up to $1,964 clock rings and 20 extended lunch adjust- for each “repeat” or “willful” violation ments that resulted in time removed from of the Fair Labor Standards Act and be subject to enforcement action by the Department of Labor, which could result in the recovery of employee back wages and liquidated damages in the equivalent amount.” IMPORTANT!! H H H H H H H H I would be remiss if I did not ap- plaud Congressmen Stephen Lynch and ALL LETTER CARRIERS Michael Capuano for their unrelenting pressure in getting the OIG involved with a special Thank You to outgoing Knee and Hip ARTHRITIS is the Silent Congressman Capuano for his more than twenty years of supporting Letter Carriers and working men and women’s interest. OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE That No One Tells You About. Finally, if you wondering what hap- pened to any of the one-hundred forty plus If you… supervisors tainted by these violations, the Postal Service apparently believes they 1. Have had a hip/knee replacement; or have suffered enough. To my knowledge, no Supervisor or Manager has received any discipline or 2. Have been diagnosed with leg arthritis; or been held to any level of accountability in a manner similar to what you or I would 3. Have chronically sore knees; or be subject to. Not One! Make no mistake about it, many 4. Have had knee surgery for ANY reason; then management personnel whose employee identification numbers were involved furthered their careers at least in small part by manipulating and deleting employee YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO: work hours. Rather than acknowledging what is painfully obvious to all involved, now SUBSTANTIAL COMP BENEFITS including the Postal Service’s own inter- nal investigatory personnel, our supposed For more information call: leaders revert to their tired, old playbook. Instead of making every effort to resolve these egregious transgressions by making Shapiro 888 NALC Law our affected members whole and restoring 888.625.2529 whatever remain of employee-employer & Associates trust, these guys choose to perpetuate the A T T O R N E Y S A T L A W Serving Letter Carriers for Over 30 Years deceit with courtroom ploys and theatrics. These people never seem to see the forest through the trees. 8 BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 President’s Report: Branch 34 Wins Rare NALC Triple Crown (continued from page 1) similarly impressive membership rate. If you haven’t visited your Branch 34 and prior issues of our award-winning content of website in an App. This high rate of unionized member- website in a while, you don’t know what newspaper, nalcbranch34.com has it all Any Member wishing to weigh in on ship doesn’t just happen by itself. While you are missing. From items of specific in one place for your convenience. the subject can email your opinion to the Branch Executive Vice President Kevin interest to Full-time Regular and CCA Finally, we are still seeking input on Branch utilizing the website, you can call Flaherty continues to excel in his role Members (relative standing lists, inter-of- member interest in advancing our website the Branch directly or speak with any Of- as the closer in this endeavor, this on- fice bids) to Steward resources, LMOU’s to the next level by offering much of the ficer in the stations. going standard of excellence does not occur without our outstanding Good Start Instructors Wanda Hamm, Louis Poste, Artie Mathews, Ed Kosta, John Lavoie, Ed Healey, John Crea and Jim Harding – all of whom routinely portray the NALC in a most positive light by their guidance and professionalism during the week-long CCA orientation. Equally significant is the role our Station Stewards and On-the-Job In- structors play at their offices by ap- proaching those individuals who may have somehow slipped through without joining our ranks. While we look forward to defending our title, we also know who will be chas- ing us if we falter in organizing efforts. General Excellence Award (Large Branch) NALC Publication Competition t is with great pride that I also an- Inounce that Branch 34 was once again A look back at the 1939 Massachusetts Delegation attending the NALC National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Do you recognize anyone? recognized nationally for having the best Photo credit goes to one of Wolly World finest “Ed Kennedy” publication of a large local (more than 1,500 members) at the recent 71st NALC Biennial National Convention with a Help Is Closer Than You Think! presentation of the ‘General Excellence sually my articles are sarcastic, anec- is struggling, simply asking how they are whether it be ver- Award’ for Branch 34’s CLAN in the dotal, funny, and yet real!!! But this doing can go a long way to let them know bally or physi- Branch Publication Competition. U month, I want to take the time to speak to someone cares. If someone asks for your cally, get away as The Overall Excellence category rec- you about a number of truly important is- help, they are coming to you because they fast as you can, ognizes publications that best serve the sues for the well-being of Letter Carriers, trust you, and that trust must not be bro- and get the help membership. Judges considered content and our families. ken. A great thing about the Letter Carriers you need. (appropriate and original articles, useful September is Recovery Month!!!! in the Boston District is we always come CR 2/15/16 information, local angles), style (clear LAURA WOOD FAHEY I personally have lost too many child- together to help one of our own, so don’t Area Steward writing, effective headlines, good story hood friends to addiction. Some I’ve lost let the stigma of addiction hinder you from H H H H H H H H placement) and overall appearance (read- to overdoses, and some I’ve lost after asking for help!!! It just might save you, Below are a list of agencies, and their ability, attractiveness, use of photos and they got clean, yet the damage was done or the life of a loved one!!! phone numbers. art). to their hearts, and those hearts just could October is Domestic Violence On the other end of the line there are This is the sixth consecutive General not sustain them any longer. A few I’ve Awareness Month!!!! people who can assist anyone in a time Excellence Award honor for Branch 34’s lost to jail, as they did whatever that was Domestic Violence Awareness also of need: CLAN over the last six conventions, a necessary to get that next fix. And I’ve holds a place in my heart like no other, as EAP (the Employee Assistance Pro- period of twelve years (2008-2018). lost others, simply because they love(d) a friend was trapped in a bad relationship gram) 1-800-EAP-4-YOU A major reason why Branch 34’s an addict. that turned deadly. It ruined two families, The National Mental Health and Ad- CLAN has had such outstanding success My story isn’t that much different than two sets of friends, and two lives that were diction Hotline 1-800-662-HELP is the long list of Branch Officers and many that are working right now as Let- ended to soon!!! And as tragic as the entire The Massachusetts Substance Use Members who have contributed articles ter Carriers, and more than likely, most situation was, I hold no grudges against Hotline 1-809-327-5050 and commentary over these many years everyone knows someone caught in the the other family involved. In fact, I feel Safe Link Statewide Domestic Vio- and this time is no exception with both throes of addiction!! And no matter how just as much heartache for them, as I do for lence Hotline 1-877-785-2020 Executive Vice President Kevin Fla- God awful it might be, you can ask ME my friends and family. It took me a long Call National Suicide Prevention Ho- herty and Area Steward Tom Rooney for help, you can ask a Brother or Sister time to get there, but they lost someone tline 1-800-273-8255 taking First- and Third-Place Awards casing a route next to you for help, or you too! And they are as heartbroken over Put them in your phone, you never respectively for articles in the Promoting can call 1-800-EAP-4-YOU!!! There are their loss, as I am over mine!!! know when you, or a loved one might Unionism category. people who care, so if you think someone If someone at home is hurting you, need to reach out. Kudos also go to CLAN Editor Robert Damatin and our printer, Stephen Ham- ilton of Union Printworks in Hyde Park for their efforts. Congratulations to all!

NALC Publication Competition Disability Insurance for Postal Employees Best Website hile our success with Branch 34’s • Payroll Deduction of Premiums WCLAN could not come as a complete • Guaranteed Approval if you are working surprise, our triumph with the recently re- vamped nalcbranch34.com in the NALC • 14 day waiting period before Branch Publication’s Best Website • No physicals required Contest was extraordinarily satisfying to • Covers ON AND OFF THE JOB INJURIES! myself and your Branch Officers having completely overhauled the site a little • Covers sickness or injuries more than a year ago. • Quick and Easy Application Process As stated at the time, it was our intent to provide an additional mechanism • Pregnancy can be covered as an illness from which you, and all Members, can • No increase in rates for existing conditions become more informed of what’s occur- or age ring, both locally and nationally, relative to our jobs. Being recognized as the NALC’s Best Website among the hun- For more information on this exclusive program for postal employees visit www.feddisabilityprogram.com dreds of locals throughout the country in such a short time frame reinforces and reinvigorates our commitment towards that goal. BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 9 Branch 34 Salutes Its Retirees Porter Square’s Salvatore Morando Woburn’s Richie Collins

Woburn’s Richie Collins (third from right) is presented his retirement jacket from Branch 34 President Mike Porter Square’s Salvatore Morando receives his retirement jacket from Branch 34 Yerkes, and Woburn Shop Stewards Vigo Conte and Fred Casey. Executive Vice President Kevin Flaherty and Porter Square Shop Steward William Criscatelli. Lexington’s John Nickerson

Woburn’s Richie Collins (above and right) is congratulated by his co-workers and the Branch Lexington’s John Nickerson is surrounded by his fellow workers on his last day of service. on his well-deserved retirement.

Branch 34 Executive Vice President Kevin Flaherty wishes John Nickerson well on his Lexington’s John Nickerson happily makes his “last punch!” retirement. Lexington Shop Stewards John Lucey and Tony Scrivano help him celebrate. Woburn’s Jane Garchinsky Medford’s Elaine Veino

Medford’s Elaine Veino receives her retirement gifts from Medford Shop Steward Christopher Pacitti and Branch 34 President Mike Yerkes. Woburn’s Jane Garchinsky receives her retirement jacket from Branch 34 President Mike Yerkes, and Woburn Shop Stewards Woburn’s Jane Garchinsky makes a colorful exit with her “last Vigo Conte and Fred Casey. punch!” Everett’s Steve DiRoberto Melrose’s Mike O’Brien Everett’s Mike Courage

Melrose’s Mike O’Brien receives congratulations from Everett’s Mike Courage receives his retirement jacket from Newly-Retired Steve DiRoberto receives a great send-off from his Everett co-workers. Branch 34 Secretary-Treasurer Michael Murray. Branch 34 President Mike Yerkes. 10 BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 Summer in September he kids are going back to school. The baseball pennant correct this oversight. September Massachusetts Trace is heating up. The crowds at the beach are start- usually means the reconvening Congressional ing to get smaller. While summer may be starting to wind of local NALC branch meetings. down, there’s still plenty of beautiful weather ahead. It’s These are prime opportunities Delegation September in New England. for our State officers to attend, U.S. SENATE This September has all the makings of an action-packed and address our members on the The Honorable Elizabeth Warren month. Recent court proceedings have added more fuel to importance of current legislation. JOHN J. CASCIANO National Business Agent Hart Senate Office Bldg., Rm. 317 the fire to what appears to be a contentious and vitriolic Our State Presidents can play a Washington, D.C. 20510 Mid-term election cycle. And as we are all too familiar vital role in this undertaking. Please support our State 202-224-4543 Fax: 202-224-2417 with, election results can put letter carriers right in the Associations and their Officers. Branch Presidents may www.warren.senate.gov line of fire. To keep letter carriers, their families and our wish to reach out to their State Presidents and make the The Honorable Edward J. Markey standard of living, we depend greatly on the goings on in invitation to attend their branch monthly meeting. Russell Senate Office Bldg., Rm. 218 Washington, D.C. We also depend on our State Associa- Washington, D.C. 20510 tions and their officers to be active with our representatives Retirement Planning 202-224-2742 Fax: 202-224-8525 www.markey.senate.gov in Congress, and to educate those elected representatives eptember is also the month when many of our on our issues. retirement-eligible members may begin to ponder U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Case in point. It should come as no surprise that there S calling it a career. Fortunately for these lucky letter First Congressional District are plenty of forces in Washington, D.C. lobbying might- carriers, we have a Retirement Seminar presentation The Honorable Richard E. Neal ily to privatize and dismantle the Postal Service. Nothing available for branches. Cannon House Office Bldg., Rm. 341 new here except that the current administration and its Retirement planning should not be taken lightly as most Washington, D.C. 20515 well-to-do friends are pro-business forces to be reckoned decisions, and there are quite a few, are irrevocable. Life 202-225-5601 Fax: 202-225-8112 with. They’re not going away. Insurance, Health Insurance, Survivor Annuity, NALC neal.house.gov You might not know it by watching cable news, but we membership and TSP withdrawals to name just a few. Second Congressional District actually have quite a few friends in Congress on both sides You’ve worked hard your entire career, and paid your The Honorable James P. McGovern of the aisle. These enlightened members of Congress are Cannon House Office Bldg., Rm. 438 fair share of taxes. Make sure your educated on how Washington, D.C. 20515 keenly aware of the fact that a healthy Postal Service is to get the most benefit from your retirement package. vital to their constituents, regardless of where one might 202-225-6101 Fax: 202-225-5759 The Retirement Seminar is available through the mcgovern.house.gov be in our capitalistic financial hierarchy. Low income, no Business Agent’s office. Branch Presidents requesting income, middle class, or lucky one percenter, all Americans Third Congressional District the training should send a written request to my attention. The Honorable Niki Tsongas benefit from a robust Postal Service. Your retirement planning should also include an Estate Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1714 Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-MA) has just intro- plan prepared by a professional. The plan should include Washington, D.C. 20515 duced H-Res-993 in the House of Representatives. The Wills, Trusts and Health Care Proxies. If you don’t pre- 202-225-3411 Fax: 202-226-0771 legislation is written to protect the Postal Service, the pare an Estate package, the government will be more than tsongas.house.gov repository of all our jobs, from the evils of Privatization. happy to do it for you. Fourth Congressional District As I write this article, there are still not enough Co- HHHHHHHHHH The Honorable Joseph P. Kennedy III Sponsors. Amazingly, there are members of Congress from “Light travels faster than sound. This is why Cannon House Office Bldg., Rm. 306 New England who have not yet signed on. some people appear bright until they speak.” Washington, D.C. 20515 Hopefully, our State Association officers are working to 202-225-5931 Fax: 202-225-0182 -Steven Wright kennedy.house.gov Represented Communities: Brookline, Newton, Needham, Wellesley, Dover, Medfield, Millis, Medway, Milford, Hopkinton, Hopedale, Bellingham, Franklin, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Foxboro, Sharon, Attleboro, North Attleborough, Mansfield, Norton, Easton, Seekonk, Rehoboth, Taunton, Raynham, Dighton, Berkley, Lakeville, Freetown, Somerset, Swansea Fifth Congressional District The Honorable Katherine Clark Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1721 Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-2836 Fax: 202-226-0092 katherineclark.house.gov Represented Communities: Arlington, Belmont, Framingham, Lexington, Lincoln, Malden, Medford, Natick, Revere, Stoneham, Waltham, Watertown, Wayland, Weston, Winchester, Winthrop, Woburn Sixth Congressional District The Honorable Seth Moulton Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1408 Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-8020 Fax: 202-225-5915 moulton.house.gov Seventh Congressional District The Honorable Michael E. Capuano Longworth House Office Bldg., Rm. 1414 Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-5111 Fax: 202-225-9322 capuano.house.gov Represented Communities: Boston, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Milton, Randolph, Somerville Eighth Congressional District The Honorable Stephen F. Lynch Rayburn House Office Bldg., Rm. 2369 Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-8273 Fax: 202-225-3984 lynch.house.gov Represented Communities: Abington, Avon, Boston, Braintree, Bridgewater, Brockton, Canton, Cohasset, Dedham, East Bridgewater, Hingham, Holbrook, Hull, Milton, Norwood, Quincy, Raynham, Scituate, Stoughton, Walpole, Weymouth, West Bridgewater, Westwood, Whitman Ninth Congressional District The Honorable William Keating Cannon House Office Bldg., Rm. 315 Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-3111 Fax: 202-225-5658 keating.house.gov Represented Communities: Norwell, Rockland, Hanover, Hanson, Pembroke, Duxbury, Halifax, Plympton, Kingston, Middleborough, Carver, Plymouth, Fall River, Westport, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Acushnet, Fairhaven, Rochester, Mattapoisett, Marion, Wareham, Bourne, Sandwich, Falmouth, Sandwich, Mashpee, Barnstable, Hyannis, Yarmouth, Dennis, Brewster, Harwich, Orleans, Chatham, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, Provincetown, Aquinnah, Goswold, Chilmark, West Tisbury, Tisbury, Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, Nantucket

BRANCH 34’s CLAN AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 11 Branch 34 Wins Rare NALC Triple Crown – Best Organizing, Best Publication & Best Website

Branch 34 President Mike Yerkes (center) accepts the “Best Organized” Award. Left to right: NALC President Fredrick Rolando, Branch 34 Executive Vice President Kevin Flaherty, Yerkes, NALC National Business Agent - Region 14 John Casciano and NALC Vice President Brian Renfroe. NALC President Fredrick Rolando (right) presents the “Best Website” Award to Branch 34 President Michael Yerkes (center) as NALC National Business Agent - Region 14 John Casciano looks on. NALC President Fredrick Rolando (right) congratulates Branch 34 Executive Vice President Kevin Flaherty for his article, “What Does the Union Do For Me?,” winner of first place in the “Promoting Unionism” category.

The triple crown of NALC awards – Best Organizing (center), General Excellence in Large Branch/ State Association Once again, “Branch 34’s CLAN” received the first place award for “General Excellence in Large Branch/State Publications (left), and Association Publications.” Left to right: Branch 34 Executive Vice President Kevin Flaherty, NALC National Business Best Website (right). Agent - Region 14 John Casciano, Branch 34 President Michael Yerkes, NALC President Fredrick Rolando, and “CLAN” Editor Bobby Damatin.

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