The DETROIT POSTAL WORKER Detroit District Area Local American Postal Workers Union October, 2018 2011 POSTAL PRESS ASSOCIATION AWARD WINNER 2017 POSTAL PRESS ASSOCIATION AWARD WINNER

The Voice of the President . . .

From The Please Cast Your Vote On Nov. 6th President On day three of the convention, the del- in the historic strike. “The Sanitation Strike egates heard from American Federation of of 1968 is one of the great struggles of work- State, County and Municipal Employees ing people and black people in particular,” (AFSCME) leaders about the 1968 Memphis he said. “Equally as important, this struggle Keith Combs, Sr. Sanitation Workers Strike. Many delegates occurred at a time when Dr. Martin Luther found inspiration from the integral link be- King, Jr. was attempting to put a face on President tween our past and present struggles, and poverty for our entire nation to see. While from the crucial connection between the civ- these two things are separate, they are tied il rights and labor movements. together by a common thread – the plight of Hello Brothers and Sisters, The Rev Cleophus Smith, Memphis sani- the working poor.” This past August 20-23 our National tation striker and activist, spoke about those Union hosted the 24th biennial National years prior to the strike and about the hor- A Training Class at the Convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. rible conditions that the working people of Convention regarding RI-399 On August 18 & 19 the APWU Craft Divi- color faced in 1967. Mr. Smith said, “When On August 23, 2018 the last day of sions (Clerk, Maintenance, Motor Vehicle as I went to work for the sanitation the National Convention, the well as Support Services) held conferences department, my job was Clerk Craft National Direc- discussing specific craft issues prior to the so tedious, tors provided a class on RI- National Convention. The delegates debat- 399, the procedure for juris- ed resolutions that were submitted from dictional work assignments APWU locals and state organizations from to Clerks and Mail Handlers around the country that we would like to regarding the United States see negotiated in future contracts. There Postal Service Low Cost Tray were 2,119 delegates as well as five re- Sorters. The class gave an tiree delegates. update on a recent MOU that I was a part of the Labor Management will improve RI-399 dispute Committee with 14 other Presidents resolution procedures, re- from around the country. We had over solved the docket of disputes, one hundred resolutions and we began and the instructions were given meeting on August 17, 2018 and we by Clerk Craft Director Lynn Pallas- continued to meet for several days dur- Barber and Industrial Relations Director ing the convention to com- Vance Zimmerman. plete the task we were APWU and Postal Management agree to given. Our commit- extend Negotiations Deadline until October tee met on resolutions 20, 2018. concerning proposals Our current union contract between the for future contract ne- American Postal Workers Union and the gotiations such as an- United States Postal Service covers the wag- nual and sick leave, es, hours and working conditions of 200,000 PSE health care, cloth- postal workers. The current Collective Bar- ing uniform allowance, gaining Agreement expired Thursday Sep- workplace harassment, tember 20, 2018. The parties have been representation, PSE meeting since June 26, 2018. maximization, and se- It is the request of the National APWU niority. The delegates that locals around the country support the in attendance also ad- fight for a good and fair contract by wearing opted a resolution that your union gear every Tuesday and Thurs- called for a light duty/pregnancy policy in and it was very cold that year, we were out day because it is important that we continue the workplace that would assist employees there working with no sufficient gloves, no fighting today for a better tomorrow. before, during and after childbirth based on sufficient clothes, no sufficient shoes - there the Pregnancy Discrimination that we are was a steel voice in me that just kept tell- Election Tuesday November 6, 2018 currently seeing management utilize. ing me to hold on.” Mr. Smith did hold on My friends, Election Day in Michigan is The National Association for the Advance- and the strike lasted for 65 long days and Tuesday, November 6, 2018. Please go to the ment of Colored People (NAACP) President he struggled without having enough food for polls and vote; that is the power we share to Derrick Johnson, brought greetings and sol- his family to eat. make sure those locally and in Washington, idarity to the convention. He called for all of Mr. William Bill Lucy, former secretary- DC will take our voice to the of justice. us to act this November to shift the power Treasurer of AFSCME and founder of the Co- It is our duty — we owe it to those who gave towards a political landscape that focuses alition of Black Trade Unionists and member their all for us to simply cast a vote. If noth- on the needs and interests of those of us in of the APWU Cleveland Are Local, shared ing else, remember those men and women attendance at the convention. his experience as a leading AFSCME staffer who sacrificed it all for us. Page 2 DETROIT POSTAL WORKER October, 2018

DETROIT Associate Let’s Talk District Are A LocAL AmericA n PostAL Workers Union Editor’s Detroit District Area Local Report Union Officials About Candy Keith Combs ...... Page 1 President David Watkins Let me list some candies that do not need brand Patrick Chornoby ...... Page 3 Associate names (well, maybe a couple) : Jelly Beans, Fruit Executive Vice-President Editor Slices, Spearmint Leaves (yum), Jordan’s Almonds, Bridge Mix, Cotton Candy, Rock Candy, Gummy Tamika Johnson-Smith Candies, Orange Slices, Cherry Slices, Buttermints, Secretary/Treasurer I’ve never been a smoker or a drinker, but I believe Gum Drops, Taffy, Sweetheart Candies (perfect John Merritt ...... Page 4 that kicking those habits would be easier than letting Valentine gift for school), Cinnamon Bears, boxes Clerk Craft Director go of candy. People generally start smoking or drink- or bags of assorted chocolates, such as Lindor’s, Sterling Bouier ...... Page 5 ing in their teens or early twenties. We start eating Godiva, Lindt, Sanders, Morley’s, etc., Spice Drops Maintenance Craft Director candy almost at birth. Candy is a lifelong habit (my (gumdrops, but so much more), suckers (remember favourite-I might add). This is October, my number Winner Suckers...15 cents, free sucker if a winner Rico Cameron one month. As a boy, I would exclaim that the month sticker is inside), chocolate covered cherries and the MVS Craft Director would start with ice cream and cake (for my Oct. 5th delicious Katydids/Turtles, which were $3 a tin not Debbie Wingler ...... Page 5 birthday) and end on Hallowe’en with candy – bags long ago. How much are they now? Eight or nine NDC Facility Director of it. dollars? Twelve? Regina “Gina” Favors...... Page 6 Before I list my favourite (and some not so fa- The Bottom Ten Candies (my wife likes most of Director of Legislation vourite) candies – here these – go figure) Darrell Clark are some notables that 10. Butterfinger Director of Organization missed the top 30: Clark 9. Kit Kat Bar, Twix, Fifth Avenue, 8. Milk Duds Kathy Carter...... Page 6 Director of Human Relations Goobers, Powerhouse, 7. Sugar Babies (or Sugar Red Hots, Planter’s Pea- Daddy – take your pick) Tony Friday nut Bar, Heath, Mars 6. Bit O’Honey Assist. Clerk Craft Director (and its twin-Milkshake), 5. Mary Jane Mentos, York Patty, Good 4. Reese’s (not Ree Cee) Keith Fletcher Assist. Maint. Craft Director & Plenty (which prob- Cups ably had the very best 3. Peeps (what a nasty Albert Lewis Assistant MVS Craft Director commercial theme song Easter trick, not of any candy), Jujubes, treat) Roz York Lemonheads, Boston 2. Circus Peanuts . . . Recording Secretary Baked Beans, SweeTarts, orange, soft , giant peanut Al Fouche...... Page 7 Sno Caps, Oh Henry, One Hundred Thousand Dollar shaped candies Retirees’ President Candy Bar and Mounds. I know, I know . . . maybe 1. Candy Corn . . . I’d rather eat dirt David Watkins ...... Page 2 your #1 candy is here, but I only have a top thirty - Here are some candies that I’ve never tasted (to my Associate Editor two top 30s actually and a bottom ten. Then I’ll list knowledge): Dale Zanardelli some candies I do not know, but which many people Zagnut, Charleston Chews, Bounty, S’mores, But- Webmaster love. ternut, Big Time, Bar None, Reggie, Skor, Chic o TRUSTEES “Penny” “Candies” – the quotation marks are there stix, Zero, , Whatchamacallit. I have tasted Clerk Craft: MVS Craft: because some candies were two cents back in the day Marathon once; Rolo at least twice and Twizzlers Dana A. Beard & Clarise Tard Charles Diggs and also because I included bonus entries that were not quite often. I’ve had Pez and Krackel this century Maintenance Craft: Mail Handler: technically candy. I try to avoid unnecessary quotation and enjoyed Bonomo’s Turkish Taffy and Slo-Poke Dale Zanardelli Kimberly Durden marks. Okay, now I’m ready... in the days of my youth. There are so many candies SGT.-AT-ARMS 30. Pumpkin Seeds that I like, so I no longer feel the need to try every Lopinia L. R. Roe Everett Hall 29. Jaw Breakers new one which comes along. I have yet to try Nerds 28. Caramel Squares or any new sour candy. I do, however, try new chew- 27. Peach Stones ing gums and bubble gums from time to time. I still 26. Cinnamon Toothpicks . . . does anybody remember can’t believe the prices of gum. . . remember Chum these? Gum for a penny? 25. Pixy Stix In addition to Wrigley’s Big Three (Doublemint, Juicy- 24. Wax Moustache fruit and Spearmint), here are ten other gums I like: 23. Candy Buttons 10. 22. Candy Necklace 9. Bubblicious 21. Bubblegum Cigars 8. 20. Lik m Aid 7. Freshen Up 19. Wax Bottles (with liquid inside) 6. Ice Breakers 18. Candy Lipstick 5. A 100% Union Firm for over 40 years. 17. Cherry Drops 4. . . . a classic 16. Coconut Slices 3. Fruit Stripe Gum (yipes, stripes) . . . they’re still 15. Candy Cigarets around 14. Kits (the precursor to 2. Bazooka Bubble Gum (the cartoons were kind of Detroit Postal Worker Now & Laters) funny in the 60s, now they’re just ridiculous) This newspaper is the official 13. Banana Splits . . . three for a penny 1. Beeman’s Pepsin Gum ( I usually have at least one publication of the Detroit District 12. Smarties pack in the house) Area Local, APWU, published quar- terly, and affiliated with the Postal 11. Gumballs . . . not candy, but what an icon! The Top 30 Candy Bars (or boxes or bags) Press Association and the AFL-CIO. 10. Squirrels 30. Mr. Goodbar Please send all correspondence in 9. Cherry Sours 29. Baby Ruth care of: Editor, 20530 Southfield 8. Red Shoestrings 28. Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Road, Detroit, MI 48235, 313-532- 7. Jolly Ranchers (why do people call them wine candy?) 27. Necco Wafers 9305. Editor: Keith Combs, Sr. 6. Dum Dum lollipops 26. Skybar 5. Red Hot Dollars 25. Payday Associate Editor: David L. Watkins 4. Kisses (especially Hershey’s) 24. Skittles Opinions expressed in this paper 3. Stick candy...assorted flavours 23. Good & Fruity are those of the writer and not nec- 2. Ice Cubes...delicious chocolate - two cents when I 22. Crème Savers essarily those of the Editors or the Detroit District Area Local. was a boy, a quarter today 21. Dove Bar 1. ROOT BEER BARRELS continued on page 3 October, 2018 DETROIT POSTAL WORKER Page 3

Vice President’s Report BEWARE – Letters Of Demand dow drawer to be short. If you seek vent you from retiring when you arrived all the way from Texas to fill union assistance, you may find you were once eligible after the age of 50. in until Lee Thompson’s vacancy is do not have to pay the entire short- The plan also calls for raising re- filled. The APWU has already met Patrick Chornoby age back, depending on the circum- tirement contributions for current with the new A/District Manager, Executive stances. And, if you have to pay, the employees 1%. This may not sound Karlett Gilber, immediately upon Vice President union can negotiate fair and reason- like much, but it will result in NO her arrival to Detroit. Our mission able pay back terms including bi- additional benefits for the employ- was to bring some of your concerns weekly payroll deductions to make ees when they finally do retire. A to her attention for possible resolu- the expense easier on you. Remem- current postal employee will be pay- tion. Some of the topics of our meet- Greetings Union Brothers and Sis- ber, never pay the postal service ing an additional six hundred dollars ing included staffing in the 482 Dis- ters. There are a lot of senior Sales any money they tell you that you each and every year until retirement trict and all of the outlying offices. and Service Associates who have owe them unless you first seek the with this 1% increase. Other items of interest involved had some experience with “Letters union’s advice. What makes the government plan managements slow responses to job of Demand”. Unfortunately, a lot of our newly hired Postal Support Em- ployees, and newly converted to ca- “Every demand for money from the postal service MUST reer clerks, have little knowledge of be supported by a written letter signed by management. these letters. First, I want to advise ALL of our employees to file a griev- Failure to issue a letter makes the demand for money void.” ance whenever you are told by man- agement to give them money for Attacking Our Jobs so bad is the loss of protections we bidding, postings and conversions. ANYTHING. This list includes any I know that a lot of our members now receive as federal employees. The APWU, led by president Keith letter of demand, any pay overages supported president Trump and the Sick leave, annual leave, insurance Combs, addressed other items that they want back, any loss of postal Republican administration in the benefits, A loss of job security, loss management had previously agreed property management claims you 2016 election. That is your right to of the no lay off clauses, loss of com- to resolve, however, never followed are responsible for and any errors in do so, as so many people wanted to parable pay in relation to the private through on. We welcome Ms. Gil- your pay that the postal service or see change in the government. So, sector, and even production stan- bert, and hope she will move for- it’s system claims has benefited you. do not be surprised, that change is dards are at risk. ward in bringing a positive outlook The reason for seeking union as- coming, and it may come sooner than Postal employees have to vote this to our District, making changes to sistance is more than just deny- you think. In June, the White House November for people who will repre- benefit the postal service as well as ing the loss of funds management proposed restructuring parts of the sent us in the government. Vote for each and every employee. Only time claims you are responsible for. That federal government in their budget, people who represent the working will tell. goes without saying. The main rea- which included changes to the United class. People who support good jobs, son to file a grievance is to prevent States Postal Service, yes that’s you pay equality, universal health care New Contract management from taking advantage and me. The proposals call for an and worker’s rights just to name a Most of you know that our Collec- of your finances for a situation you end to the regular mail and package few. Sadly, you will not find any of tive Bargaining Agreement covering may not even be guilty of. If you delivery services as we know it, which them in the Republican Party. our Clerks, Maintenance, Motor Ve- are told by management that you are at affordable rates to over 157 mil- hicle and Postal Support Employees owe the postal service money, for lion addresses every day. The Postal More Workplace expires on November 20, 2018. Our example, a shortage in your win- Service is not the only federal organi- Change Is Coming National Union is in contract nego- dow stock, that shortage MUST be zation being attacked with changes, Our 482 District Manager, Lee tiations at this moment. Watch for in writing and given to you explain- many federal and public services are Thompson, has retired on June updates and bulletins on the progress ing what the postal service is trying being attacked as well. 30th. A new Acting District Manager of negotiations. to recoup from you. If you are not The budget plan is to privatize the given a letter signed by manage- postal service, like they have done in ment explaining the reasons for the many European nations. The prob- demand of funds, do not give them lem is that those European nations Let’s Talk About Candy any money. It may turn out that you have raised their postal rates nearly don’t own them anything. 80% over the past decade since being continued from page 2 5. Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream I have been told by many newly privatized. The USPS currently has 20. 4. Almond Joy (remember Al- hired sales and service employees, some of the lowest rates in the world 19. Life Savers mond Cluster and Caravelle?) often management will approach for mail delivery services. If the USPS 18. Jujyfruits 3. Nestle’s Crunch (my favou- them and say that their drawer is is privatized, we can expect so see our 17. Junior Mints rite when I was fourteen) short ten dollars. Management pro- rates increase dramatically, which 16. Chunky 2. Dots (don’t see a movie with- ceeds to tell the window clerk to pay will open the door to other delivery 15. Starburst out them) the ten dollars. And they do. There companies by removing the first class 14. Whoppers (Can you believe 1. CHUCKLES . . . even the is never a record of the transaction, mail monopoly the USPS now enjoys. they’re sold in a milk carton’? As name says “fun” I only have one just verbal instructions. For fear of The White House budget plan calls a little boy, I would’ve thought I pack in the house now; it’s time losing their jobs, newer employ- for basing postal pensions – yes, your was in heaven . . . and by the way, to restock. ees will simply pay the shortage. I pensions, on an employee’s high five I buy the cartons) The red Chuckle may very well must advise every clerk . . . never years of employment, instead of their 13. Raisinets be the single greatest treat in give management your hard earned high three years. This would take 12. Jolly Joes (they are all un- (wait for it) . . . . the whole wide money without getting advise from about six billion dollars out of the der the Mike & Ike banner now, world. your union, and no window clerk pockets of your retirement over the but who recalls the discontinued Now, let me hereby announce should be paying for any shortage of next ten years. member of the Jolly Joes/Mike & the Candy Hall-of-Fame. These ten dollars or less. The White House budget plan Ike/Hot Tamales family? ) first two inductees are too iconic Another reason to seek union in- calls for the elimination of the cur- 11. M & Ms Peanut to be a part of the other lists — tervention on any money the postal rent FULLY FUNDED FERS annuity 10. Snickers Tootsie Rolls, to include the service says you owe them, is for supplement. This is for employees 9. Hershey’s with Almonds penny candy, the longer bars and the union to make sure it is proper. retiring before the age of 62. It would 8. Three Musketeers (my favou- Tootsie Pops, Peppermints, from Every demand for money from the mean that every postal employee rite when I was ten) the Olde Time Sugar Sticks to postal service MUST be supported retiring before the age of 62 would 7. Hershey’s Symphony penny candy and candy canes. by a written letter signed by man- NOT be able to collect their pensions 6. M & Ms Plain . . . I maintain Of course these are only my agement. Failure to issue a letter until they reached the age of 62. that a single one of these delicious opinions, please share yours. (P.S. makes the demand for money void. This would amount to a loss of ben- candies should not be called M & the answer to # 12: Cool Kids) Last, let’s say there was a mistake efits for new retirees in the amount M, but simply M; after all, the M is I hope you had as much fun made while you are working on the of about 20 billion dollars over the printed on each piece . . . singular, reading this as I did writing it. window and you found your win- next ten years, or even worse, pre- not plural (sorry) Now, where are my Chuckles ? Page 4 DETROIT POSTAL WORKER October, 2018

Clerk Craft Some Thoughts And An Appeal Director To Our Younger Members John Merritt voters to turn against the interests of nomic scale, but then, “Socialist” still companies stand out as the union- Clerk Craft the working class and vote for these seems to strike fear into a lot of peo- ized industry that made possible a Director rich kids who never had to “work” ple who probably don’t even know good middle class standard of living in the normally understood sense of what the term means. You only have which from World War II through the word, in their entire lives. For to go back to the debate about the the 1980s was the envy of the world. the benefit of our veterans, I would Affordable Care Act, a.k.a. “Obam- Until, that is, the ultra-conservative As I come to the end of this term as throw in that both of these rich kids acare” to recall that it was called “So- backlash movement which began Clerk Craft Director, I want to make also ducked military service. cialism” or “socialized health care” with the election of Ronald Reagan an appeal to our younger members Rich political conservatives, by by its enemies who invoke the term that year, and which continues to — to get involved in union activities definition, want wealth concentrat- “Socialism” as if that is some kind of this day, started its campaign to un- and union politics. All of our mem- ed in the hands of the wealthy; they recognized evil which ends further ravel the social and political progress bers, young and old alike, have en- want to “conserve” the social order discussion of the subject. which had slowly — very slowly — joyed the protec- begun at around tions of a national the turn of the collective bargain- “We must maintain our vigilance. There have been century. Thus, ing agreement we have our two since they hired numerous movements to eliminate the Postal Reor- economic camps: into the Postal “Progressive” Service. Many of ganization Act and, with it, collective bargaining.” meaning those our members, of who believe in all ages, do not economic “prog- recognize that a collective bargain- of a very small privileged class sup- But I digress. What I want to im- ress” whereby wealth and privilege ing agreement, and indeed a union, ported by a very large underprivi- press upon our younger members is is more equitably distributed; and is not guaranteed into the future. leged class (that’s us by the way) that we need you. We need you to “Conservative” meaning those who If it were up to rich political con- who will scramble for available low- come to union meetings. We need want to “conserve” wealth, power servatives, neither collective bar- paying jobs and fight each other for you to involve yourself in union ac- and privilege in the hands of the few gaining agreements, nor unions crumbs of bread while the small tivities. We need you to step up and (see above) and who directly oppose themselves, would exist. privileged few own the bread fac- volunteer to be union stewards and “progress”. Unfortunately, rich political con- tories. If you object to this state of to run for union office. It is the youth So many things that unions fought servatives have managed to persuade affairs and want to bring the many who are going to take the union and to achieve; the eight-hour day and poor political conservatives — again up to the level of the few, you are la- the labor movement forward into forty-hour workweek, overtime pay, — that the rich political conserva- beled a “Socialist”. the future, a future where the rele- paid sick leave, vacation time, retire- tives have the poor political conser- Unions and politically liberal ac- vancy or need for unions is not clear ment pensions, group health care vatives’ best interests at heart. This tivists have been getting called “So- to much of (particularly the younger insurance, to name but a few — not is the lesson to be derived from the cialists”, “Communists” or even “An- part of) the adult population. The one of which was ever given volun- elections of George W. Bush (twice) archists” since the end of the 19th days when young working class tarily by an employer — are condi- and the more recent election of Don- Century. You’d think the rich guys children were raised by their fami- tions of employment taken for grant- ald Trump. Both of these men, them- would come up with a new label to lies to believe in, and seek, “good- ed in this country. But they weren’t selves raised as privileged rich kids, stick on those who are not happy paying union jobs” seem to have granted; they were demanded by managed to convince working class to remain on the bottom of the eco- passed. In Michigan, the automobile unions, and only accomplished after hard struggle. Power does not relin- quish anything without demand. And power never ceases to try and take back what it has been forced to relinquish. The Welcome Mat Each generation must protect and preserve the accomplishments of the The APWU-DDAL would like to give a big round of applause to the following new members. As we past, while achieving new accom- all know, there is strength in numbers. We appreciate and acknowledge all who make the endeavor to plishments going forward into the become unionists. We invite you to come in and play an active role in helping this union flourish! future. This is especially true for our We would also like to acknowledge those that signed the new brothers and sisters. Remember, any union, the American Postal Workers member can sign a new member and it’s $20 in your pocket! Union. Prior to 1970, postal workers had no contract, no negotiated right JEREL WILLIAMS REGINA SAFFO CLARISE TARD to collectively bargain, and made WILLIAM TINSLEY JASON ROGERS CONNIE YOUNG about two dollars an hour. Risking MAURICE GRAY, SR. ANTHONY MORGAN DANIEL VASQUEZ their jobs and possibly even impris- CHRISTOPHER COMSTOCK DANA MAXWELL PETRA CONONADO onment, the union leaders of the day LESLEY GATES LATONYA BLAND RYAN PATTERSON decided to strike — which was ille- ORIANA WILLIAMS TODD WILLIAMSON NEFTALY VASQUEZ gal — and as a result of their cour- DONNA JONES ANTOINE BUCKS ANTHONY LUMBRERAS age the union was recognized by the BRITTANEY LITTLE GARY GERVIN JIM GUY, III Postal Reorganization Act of 1972. BIANCA HOUSTON CHRISTOPHER UNDERWOOD ANDRES OLIVERA Remember, power does not relin- KENDRA REVELS RASHEL SMITH DEBORAH UNDERWOOD quish anything without demand. ROBERT FLANNERY ROBERT VADASZ MONIQUE HARRIS We must maintain our vigilance. KENDRICK JACKSON JONATHON LEGARRETA DURAND MCCONELL There have been numerous move- FRANK PICKENS PHILLIP WALLER EBONY TOYER ments to eliminate the Postal Reor- BRITTANY WINSTON TYRA MOORE DARONTAE SMITH ganization Act and, with it, collec- NYESHA WITTEN-AREBELO GARY JONES MIGUEL ZAMORA tive bargaining. Conservatives are TAMIKA MILLER RICHARD HANNAH RICHARD MILES continually talking about “privatiz- ANNA DESANTIS ARDIS ROBERTS HARRY OGLETREE ing” the Postal Service. There is even BIANCA USSERY DREW JOHNSON ADRIAN ARMSTRONG current discussion that the current DAI JAILITA LOVE JADE PAIGE KIEARA CLARK President could eliminate collective DAJANAIRA ANDERSON MARY BLACK JORGE RUBIO VELOZ bargaining by Executive Order. CORNEL CLARKE WILLIE HENDERSON ELIZABETH RAMOS We need you and we want you. SHANE VASQUEZ Please step up and get active. If you don’t, who will? October, 2018 DETROIT POSTAL WORKER Page 5

Maintenance Craft Custodial Team Cleaning Report stations, the program is not being problems, or questions, please con- concluded. The process of testing, followed. The custodians are being tact the Union. interviewing, and getting employees asked to keep the facility clean with- For all those interested, the Line the results should be concluded. If Sterling Bouier out being assigned the work accord- H grievances for the fiscal years anyone has any issues, problems, or Maintenance Craft ing to their staffing package. They are 2015, 2016, and 2017 have been questions, please contact the Union. Director continuing to use the previous clean- appealed to Step 3 as of June 8, There is a lot going on. The Na- ing methods, which makes it appear 2018. It is almost time for Line H tional Convention is coming up. that the program is successful. fiscal year 2018 (October). In the The Local Election is coming up. Hello Union Brothers and Sisters. Stop assisting management in future, I need as many statements There are various bills in Congress My name is Sterling Bouier. I am eliminating custodial positions. Re- as possible from custodians that that can directly affect the future the Maintenance Craft Director for quest an assignment or route sheet state you are not following CTC, you of the Post Office. We all need to be APWU DDAL. There are a few im- every day. Follow that sheet and are not receiving route sheets (at informed as soon as possible, work portant issues I would like to talk anything outside of that work sheet stations), and for any time or hours together to protect the Postal Ser- about. The first is CTC (Custodial should be assigned on a work order that you are sent to another facility vice as we know it. The only way to Team Cleaning). CTC was designed or assigned on overtime. Document or that your assignment is changed survive is to work and fight together to reduce staffing by 33% or about the work that was bypassed in or- but your route sheet is not. Any as one. The Union must be unified!!! 1/3. That means custodians have der to allow you to complete other tasks that are not being performed If anyone has any questions/ less time to do the same amount of tasks. That is the only way that we or completed should be “partialed” issues/complaints pertaining to work. The required cleaning sup- can show that the program does or bypassed and reflected as such on Maintenance Craft, please feel free plies do not clean sufficiently and not work and argue to get those your route sheet. to contact me at 313 965-1398 the program in reality is a failure. work hours and custodial positions By the time of this printing, Main- (maintenance office @ GWY). At most facilities, especially at the restored. If anyone has any issues, tenance Open Season should have In Union Solidarity.

Retirees’ Department Resolutions That Affect You lars ($36.00) per year per capita tax New language in bold print tion will be one (1) for one-hun- Notes to the National Union. Article 3 is Resolved, to amend the APWU dred (100) or fraction thereof.” membership. Constitution & By-Laws; Article The Detroit Retiree Chapter will Whereas, retirees currently are al- 6. “Representation”; Adding a be represented by the following: Al Fouche lowed to be seated with their delega- new Section 6 (Change present NATIONAL OFFICERS – Michael Retirees’ President tion, despite no voice, no vote and Section 6 to Section 7. To read: O. Foster, Judy Beard and Phillip A. have been trusted to abide by these Wherever in Article 6, Sections Tabbita restrictions for several conventions, 1 through 5, references to ‘Na- STATE OFFICERS – Jane E. Dug- and therefore be it tional Convention; Local, State, gan Beginning August 18, 2018, the Resolved, all retirees in atten- or regional affiliates, or organi- LOCAL OFFICERS/MEMBERS – APWU will have its national conven- dance at the APWU National Con- zations voting strength/repre- Al Fouche, Yvonne Tatum, Regina tion for retirees and active members. vention will be allowed voice and sentation “such provisions will Favors, Carole Boulware, Christine The delegates will either vote ‘for’ vote on all retiree related issues, and apply to chartered APWU State Foster and Brenda Standerfer-Jones or ‘against’ all resolutions. therefore be it further and Local Retiree Chapters with The results of approved resolu- Listed below are resolutions af- Resolved, retirees will not be al- the exception that Retiree Chap- tions will be given when the conven- fecting retiree members. lowed to vote on issues such as rat- ters’ voting strength/representa- tion is over. Whereas, while APWU retired ification of a National Agreement, members have no interest or benefit LMOU, proposed Work Stoppage or in influencing active delegates on Labor Management issues affect- how to vote on contractual issues; ing all current employees in any there are numerous non-bargaining crafts/divisions, and therefore be it resolutions proposed in national further conventions directly affecting retir- Resolved, to amend the APWU ee membership; i.e., Constitutional Constitution & By-Laws; Article 6. Amendments, Legislative/Political, “Representation”; Adding a New APWU Health Plan, Human Rela- Section 6 (Change present Section tions, Veterans Affairs, the Retirees 6 to 7) to read: “Wherever in Article Department, Social and Economic 6, Sections 1 through 5. Referenc- issues of consequence, and es to; ‘National Convention; Local, Whereas retirees regularly as- State, regional affiliates, or organiza- sist locals and participate in APWU tions voting strength/representation functions such as state and national such provisions will apply to char- elections and campaigns such as tered APWU State and Local Retiree Staples, and Chapters. Whereas, currently, with a token Resolved, the new section would of just five (5) elected National Re- read: tiree Delegates to the APWU Nation- SEC. 6 Retiree delegates will al Convention, one in each region, be seated with a voice and a vote the average representative voting pursuant to the formula in Ar- strength is 1 for 8,000, and ticle 6, section one. Retiree del- Whereas, Especially note items egates will not be allowed to vote 3, Every member has the right to on issues such as ratification of a freedom of speech and the right to National Agreement, LMOU, pro- be heard and item 6, Every member posed Work Stoppage or Labor has the right to participate in the ac- Management issues affecting all tivities of this Union, and current employees in any crafts/ Whereas, retirees are MEMBERS divisions. – please refer to Article 3 Section 4 SEC. 7 Each national officer hold- (e) All retirees who desire to become ing an elective office shall have voice members of the APWU Retirees De- and one (1) vote and shall be a del- partment shall pay Thirty-Six Dol- egate to the National Convention Page 6 DETROIT POSTAL WORKER October, 2018 Voting Against Your Own Self Interests by Doug Brown and benefits.” In other words slash Many Americans enjoy their privi- pay, eliminate benefits and tear up lege of voting in elections. Our vote universal service. No more unions provides direction and stability for or protections, and certainly no re- the things we value most in our tirement benefits or health insur- great country. Informed voters are ance. Plain and simple, it is union caring voters. Caring voters research busting. the issues and cast votes according- President Kennedy once said ly. This is known as “voting in your “Those who would destroy or further best interest.” limit the rights of organized labor – Looking back to the 2016 presi- those who would cripple collective dential election voters felt isolated, bargaining or prevent organization forgotten and tired of the every day of the unorganized – do a disservice politics. Many wanted change and to the cause of democracy. voted for Donald Trump. Internal Members of the APWU who polling suggests a percentage of voted for change certainly did not union members across the coun- intend for the changes to apply to try voted for Trump. Industries like their employment with the USPS. steel, automotive, and coal employ They did not vote for reductions in lots of union members. The mem- their retirement, busting of their bers liked what they heard with union, or most certainly not priva- promises of change in NAFTA and tization of the postal service. It is other unfair trade agreements. How- very clear by voting for change you ever, a year and a half later there has ment benefits. Remember, the USPS employees, and degrade just cause have “voted against your own self been little change in trade practices, is included as one of those agencies. provisions for termination. interests.” only tariffs and threats. Trump has followed through on his Most recently the Trump admin- We have a real opportunity to A percentage of APWU members campaign promise to cripple govern- istration has proposed, “privatizing” change the direction this November. voted for Trump. It is unclear how ment employee unions. It started the postal service. According to the Do the research and please cast your many as Trump campaigned on re- with executive orders to limit “offi- White House “a private postal ser- votes accordingly. “Vote in your best ducing the size of government agen- cial time” for stewards, strip whis- vice would provide greater freedom interest.” cies and associated federal retire- tleblower protections for federal to raise prices and negotiate pay — IPWU Dispatch

Director of Human 5 Steps To Being More Of An Optimist Relations Analyze Your Thoughts, the key to your success, shouldn’t necessarily a reflection of personal Giving Yourself Credit you expect to do well on future weakness. Kathy Carter When something positive hap- tests? Isn’t a successful career a This doesn’t mean that you pens in your life, stop to analyze natural result? should never recognize when you Director of Human your thought process may need to change Relations for a moment. Are you your behavior in the giving yourself due future or deny respon- credit for making it sibility for mistakes — Life is easier and generally more happen? Think of all that’s how we learn! It enjoyable if you’re an optimist. Re- the strengths you pos- does mean, however, search shows that optimists enjoy sess and ways you con- to focus more on the many health and lifestyle bene- tributed, both directly positive and don’t let fits, including greater achievement, and indirectly, to make negative events kill greater health, a sense of persistence this event occur. For your self-confidence. toward goals, greater emotional example, if you aced a health, increased longevity, and test, don’t just think of Remember: Tomor- lower reactivity to stress. Because how great it is that you row Is Another Day/ of this, optimists tend to be happier were prepared, but also Tips to Remember: overall. Optimism is measured by think of how your intel- 1. The key to opti- your explanatory style, or how you ligence and dedication mism is to maximize define events. You’re halfway there played a role. your successes and if you can learn to define positive minimize your failures. events in the following three ways: Think of How Your 2. It’s beneficial to 1. Positive events occurred be- Strengths Can Bring look honestly at your cause of something you did. Other Good Things shortcomings, so you 2. Positive events are a sign of Think of other areas can work on them, more good things to come. of your life that could but focusing on your 3. Positive events are evidence be affected by this good strengths can never that good things will happen in other event. Also, think of hurt. areas of your life. how the strengths you 3. Keep in mind that You’re all the way there if you can possess that caused this good thing Minimize the Negative, the more you practice challenging also think of negative events as: to happen can also cause other posi- When It’s Realistic to Do So your thought patterns, the more 1. not your fault. tive events in your life. For example, When negative events occur, automatic it’ll become. Don’t expect 2. isolated occurrences that have what other good things can come think of the extenuating circum- major changes in thinking right no bearing on future events or other from your intelligence, dedication, stances that could have contrib- away, but do expect them to become areas of your life. and ability to effectively prepare for uted to this happening. If you do ingrained over time. If you find yourself expecting the tasks? poorly on an exam, for example, 4. Always remember that virtu- worst and selling yourself short a were you especially busy in the ally any failure can be a learning little too much of the time, you can Think of Future Events preceding week? Were you some- experience, and an important step always increase your tendency to- That Can Also Happen what sleep deprived? What outside toward your next success! ward optimism. The following steps Imagine what future possibilities circumstances contributed to your 5. Practice positive affirma- can get you there. could be in store. Because you hold failure? Keep in mind that this isn’t tions. They really work! October, 2018 DETROIT POSTAL WORKER Page 7 Grammar : When Bad Grammar Is ‘Good’ by David Watkins, Associate Editor “ain’t”, for example, is useful. When abolitionist standard words to let the audience know that he or Good words used correctly make for good sen- Sojourner Truth made her famous speech in 1851, she “knows better”. One specific minister has been tences. I was taught how to use “good English” she used the term “ain’t I a woman?” for emphasis known to say, “I know that’s not good grammar, when I was in school. Miss Aprahamian and and effect. The speech is now commonly referred but it’s good preaching.” However, it is not advis- others made sure that I used the right words at to as the Ain’t I A Woman speech. The phrase able for everyone to use bad grammar or slang. the right time. These lessons were When speech sounds stilted or forced for speaking as well as for writing. it does not go over the same way. (I I believe that I learned my lessons tried to use a slang term in a talk; well. I like to think of myself as even though my usage was correct I something of a grammarian. That was asked to not try that anymore) is to say that when I speak or write I like a certain amount of formality I make an effort to “get it right” in and structure in my writing. It’s just regards to what is called proper a personal preference. My high school English. I truly love the language English teacher, Miss Aprahamian and its flavourful subtleties. I en- would never have accepted fragments joy word games, word puzzles and in the place of subject-predicate sen- linguistic word play. I also enjoy tences. Nor would my college profes- editing and proofreading; and gram- sors have endorsed them. Therefore matical errors are the first things (being the old school guy that I am), that I correct. However, there are I still do not use fragments in my some instances in which so-called bad grammar ‘I am a woman’ would probably have been less writing. I feel quite alone in this regard. The top can work better than standard English. memorable. novelists and columnists use fragments with an Have you ever had a conversation (or a heated Public speakers sometimes use non-standard amazing frequency. I must admit that thriller writ- argument) when standard words did not seem words and terms for effect and to add weight to ers use fragments for effect quite well. to be enough ? This is where some people will certain sections of their talks. A preacher’s point Example: “She walked slowly to the door and interject a curse word or a gesture to get a point could be made without any diversions from stan- stood against it – listening intently. Silence.” The across. Well, in ‘polite society’ profanity is not dard English. After all, the Bible is probably the word “silence” is not a sentence. It is a fragment. an option. In written works, gestures would be best example of a remarkable use of the language. Yet, the writer’s point is made and the effect is fruitless. This becomes the time for the use of Still, there seems to be a particular added flair undeniable. Today’s best selling writers did not colloquial conversation. This is the everyday talk when an otherwise well spoken individual uses have Miss Aprahamian as their teacher, but they we hear from people who are not public speakers. non-standard English in the way that the listeners seem to be doing rather well for themselves. Per- There are times when a person has a desire to are used to hearing it. That last point is important. haps one day I’ll use a fragment or two myself. impress upon listeners or readers that the word The speaker should put an emphasis on the non- Maybe. — To Be A Friend — by David Watkins, bills and they’ve got shut off notices doing is compulsive. That makes it Leon got up to leave. “See you Associate Editor for everything.” an addiction.” later, Al.” It had been a long day of carrying “So what happened to their bill Leon said, “How do you know so “Later, Deon.” mail – much longer than usual, or so money?” asked Al. much about this stuff?” Leon stopped. “You knew?” it seemed. Al was tired as he entered “Well, there was this ‘sure thing’ at “I had a problem myself years ago,” “Hey,” said Al. “Don’t worry the station to clock out. the racetrack which turned out not to Al said. “Don’t look so surprised. We about it. Conversations in the A recognizable voice boomed. be a sure thing after all.” all have our setbacks.” break room stay in the break “Hey, man. What’s going on, Al?” “Oh, I see – so it’s not your friend’s “Wow. What was your problem, room.” “Not much, Leon,” Al answered. fault, it’s the jockey’s fault. Tell me, Al?” As Leon walked away, Al re- “I’m glad this day is over. When I get does your friend like the casinos, “Another thing about EAP is that minded him, “Call that number home, I’m going straight to sleep.” too?” they have life coaching and counsel- when you get home and don’t stop “One of those days, huh?” Leon replied,“Yeah, but he only ing and everything is confidential.” at the store to play it either.” Al laughed and said, “More like two goes to one of them.” “Like a lawyer or a priest?” Leon Al thought to himself, there’s of those days wrapped up in one.” “One is all it takes. Does he play laughed. no need to tell Leon that I play Leon smiled at this. When he Powerball?” “What happens at EAP…”Al said. 327 every now and then myself. spoke, the smile faded. “Got a min- Leon nodded. “Yeah. Powerball “Stays at EAP,” finished Leon. Al headed home to get some much ute, Al?” and Lotto 47. Oh – and Fantasy Five. “Thanks a lot. I appreciate this. I’ll needed rest. He did not make any “Sure man, what’s up?” He used to play the three and four dig- tell my friend.” stops along the way. Leon walked to the break area its, but you can’t win enough money and sat down at a table. Al took the on those.” seat across from him. “Leon, if this is Al frowned and said, “You mean about that twenty, don’t worry about ‘lose enough’; look – tell your friend it. Hold onto it until next payday.” to give his paycheck to his wife, call “Thanks. But no, it’s something each utility company and make a else. A friend of mine has a problem deal and then call this number.” and I thought that you might have Al held out a business card for some advice that I could give him.” Leon. Leon took it and read aloud, Al folded his hands and looked “EAP 1-800-327-4968. Hey, my at Leon. “Go ahead. What’s your friend used to play 327 every day…” friend’s name?” “Tell your friend to call the num- “Uh…Deon.” ber, don’t play it. This is serious.” Al nodded. “What’s his problem?” Leon asked, “But isn’t EAP for ad- “It’s a marital problem. His wife is dicts – like drugs and alcohol?” threatening to leave him.” “People tend to think so,“ said Al sat back in his chair. He knew Al, “but EAP helps employees deal that his restful evening would have with all kinds of issues from smok- to wait a little while longer. ing and drinking to health problems “It’s like this, Al,” Leon started, and depression. And by the way, “my friend hasn’t been paying his the type of gambling your friend is Page 8 DETROIT POSTAL WORKER October, 2018 There’s More To Being A Member Than Just Paying Dues by John Dirzius, APWU Contract Action Team (CAT) and Northeast Region Coordinator get everyone to wear a union T- As I proudly travel the North- shirt or contract campaign button east Region and speak with work- on a scheduled day every week. ers, I always ask if there are any That small gesture sends a strong new members, newly hired Postal and important message to man- Support Employees (PSEs) or re- agement: We are union strong and cently converted PSEs. I ask those united. Take a picture and share it questions knowing that 25 per- on social media to show your soli- cent of postal workers have been darity. hired since 2011 and over 54 per- Organizing any non-members cent are eligible to retire. in your local is one of the most im- A few hands always go up and portant roles anyone can play. Tell that’s great. However, collectively them: The APWU has negotiated a we need to make certain that each strong contract that protects our time that question is asked, more members with a good living wage, and more hands proudly go up in health benefits, job security and a “fist pump” of union pride and a pension once we retire. There solidarity, as our future is in the is absolutely no reason why any collective hands of our new mem- postal employee should be a non- bers. We need to see more new member. members at our training sessions, If you are ready, the next step more activists attending union is to become a union steward or meetings, more new delegates at an outstanding labor union. The ance, negotiate your contract, pro- run for an elected position in your state and national conventions, strength of any labor union is tect your standard of living and local. Don’t worry, there are all and everyone participating in our measured by the active involve- fight to keep America’s postal ser- kinds of trainings available to rallies and demonstrations. Your ment of its members. The days of vices strong. Your involvement is hone your skills and knowledge. involvement will determine our letting someone else “do it” were absolutely required. Taking that next step is what is future. never acceptable and with today’s The journey to become a union important and vital to our contin- The task of empowering our serious challenges, this attitude activist is as simple as attending ued success. members, educating our mem- can no longer be tolerated. your next union meeting. Orga- To put it in sports terms, we bers and developing new leaders Being a good union member is nize your meeting by spreading must fill the APWU’s “bench” must be a priority for all of us if more than just paying dues and the word among your co-workers and the first step is your involve- we are to maintain our status of asking others to resolve your griev- and ask them to get their co-work- ment. I can assure you, if you ask ers to attend, as well. Social media my fellow Regional Coordinators, is a great tool to get our message Sharyn Stone, Omar Gonzalez, out. Mike Gallagher and Kennith Bea- As we mobilize around a new sley, their response would be the contract, work with your local same. Get involved today! 2018 Membership Meetings The meetings are held at your union hall: 20530 Southfield Road, Detroit, MI 48235. November 4th Meetings are held between 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. ADDRESS CORRECTION Please help us to maintain our membership mailing list. The form printed below should be completed and sent the Local of- fice whenever you make a change of address. This will allow us to continue our mailings to you without interruption.

Name______EID #______

New Address______

City______Zip______

Post Office______

Home Phone______Detroit District Area Local Area Detroit District APWU, AFL-CIO 20530 Southfield Road Detroit, Michigan 48235 Change Service Requested