Volume 133/Number 9 September 2020 In this issue President’s Message 1 National Officers 32 Branch Election Notices 54 Branch Items 62

The monthly journal of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LETTER CARRIERS

Despite all the noise, letter carriers are

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Reckless chaos amidst a deadly pandemic n August 2020, perhaps for ca’s appreciation of the Postal Service has never been greater, the first time since the Great and our customers recognize that we are driven by our pride Postal Strike of 1970, the in providing timely service and our compassion for their well- finds itself at the being. But as letter carriers courageously perform their duties, center of the media universe, there is an inevitable fear and anxiety inherent in having daily Iat the crossroads of politics, elec- contact with co-workers and the general public during a deadly tion planning and legislative ma- pandemic. Our members just want to come to work and be able neuvering. NALC and the other to deliver the to their customers in a safe, efficient and postal unions are in the eye of this timely manner—and then go home safely to their families. They storm—where we are the chief should and must not be exposed to senseless and disruptive defenders of our members, the initiatives. Postal Service and our democra- On a daily basis, we are forwarding reports of delays and non- cy—and the country is rallying be- delivery to USPS so it can account for, and correct, continued hind its beloved Postal Service to incidents of delays or non-delivery. We will continue to do so make sure, among other things, until all of the operationally generated incidents are resolved. that it can handle the flood of mail We will take whatever internal or external steps are necessary ballots expected to be cast during to ensure that the level of service our customers rely on is not the pandemic. compromised. National-level grievances have been filed on Fredric V. The swirl of recent events has both the Expedited to Street/Afternoon Sortation (ESAS) and been extraordinary. President the Sortation Equipment Reconciliation (SER) initiatives. Rolando unleashed a po- As of this writing, the ESAS program is being terminated, and litical firestorm by launching a the SER program is on hold while we continue discussions. The months-long sustained attack on the Postal Service and vote- management structure of personnel and communication for city by-mail—and then threatening to veto any COVID-19 relief legis- delivery has been changed with the recent USPS organizational lation providing funds to the Postal Service. Of course, ensuring restructuring. Through these new lines of communication, we that the Postal Service can weather a historic pandemic should fully expect to see an end to unilateral management initiatives, have nothing to do with state decisions on whether to expand which would allow us to utilize our established joint task forces vote-by-mail as a public health measure. We’ve pushed back, to effect meaningful changes in the areas of safety, service, work- defending the security of vote-by-mail and challenging his con- place climate, contract compliance, efficiency and growth. tention that the Postal Service lacks the capacity to handle a We also are in constant communication with members of Con- surge in mail ballots. We produced a fact sheet on the 2020 gress on both sides of the aisle regarding the Health and Eco- general election rebutting all of this, and distributed it to Capitol nomic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions (HEROES) Act, a Hill, the media, the labor movement and a range of public-inter- COVID-19 relief bill that would provide $25 billion in financial aid est groups. We also are participating in a joint task force with to USPS to offset the effects of the pandemic, ensure high-qual- USPS and the other postal unions to address the challenges of ity service and provide hazard pay for our members and other our expanded role in the 2020 election. We will work to ensure front-line workers. After the Senate shamefully left Washington coordination with state and local election officials so that bal- for a summer break without addressing the HEROES Act, House lots are handled in a timely manner. Speaker Nancy Pelosi called the House of Representatives back On top of all that, a combination of old and new initiatives, to Washington to pass the Delivering for America Act (S. 8015), a directed locally or from postal headquarters, have resulted in a stand-alone postal bill that provides the $25 billion in pandemic variety of reckless operational changes that have created chaos relief to USPS, along with measures intended to ensure quality in delivery units and made our jobs more difficult and less ef- service during the upcoming election. (Visit our website or use ficient. Most of these initiatives are counterproductive and our Member App to follow the latest news on this legislation.) needlessly disruptive, and they have left letter carriers feeling angry, frustrated and embarrassed over the resulting delay and For NALC, the bottom line is clear: We will do whatever it takes— non-delivery of mail. And all of this is occurring amidst a deadly at the bargaining table, in the halls of Congress, in the courts, in pandemic. the streets and in the media—to protect the health, safety and job security of our members, and to defend the Postal Service On a daily basis, our members bring a sense of normalcy to and its essential role in American life. neighborhoods and communities throughout the country as their customers deal with the personal, economic and social effects of the seemingly endless COVID-19 pandemic. Ameri-

September 2020 The Postal Record 1 Cover illustration by Jim Starr National Association of Letter Carriers, AFL-CIO Contents Since 1889, representing city letter carriers employed by the Postal Service. Volume 133/Number 9 September 2020 100 Indiana Ave. NW Washington, DC 20001-2144 202-393-4695 | nalc.org

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

BOARD OF TRUSTEES LAWRENCE D. BROWN JR. 774 Valencia Street Los Angeles, CA 90017 MIKE GILL MACK I. JULION 18682 SW 93 Court 3850 S. Wabash Ave. Cutler Bay, FL 33157 Chicago, IL 60653 NATIONAL BUSINESS AGENTS Region 1: BRYANT ALMARIO Region 9: LYNNE PENDLETON (, Hawaii, , Guam) (Florida, Georgia, , 3105 E. Guasti Road, Suite 200 South Carolina) Ontario, CA 91761 1101 Northchase Parkway SE, Suite 3 909-443-7450 Marietta, GA 30067 678-942-5295 Region 2: NICK VAFIADES 24 (Alaska, Utah, Idaho, , Region 10: JAVIER BERNAL Oregon, Washington) (New Mexico, Texas) 5115 NE 94th Ave., Suite A 23760 Hwy. 59 North Departments Features Vancouver, WA 98662 Kingwood, TX 77339 360-892-6545 281-540-5627 1 President’s Message 4 2020 presidential election Region 3: MICHAEL B. CAREF Region 11: MARK CAMILLI 3 Letter from the Editor The NALC Executive Council (Illinois) (Upstate , Ohio) 4 News 4979 Indiana Ave., Suite 203 5445 Beavercrest Drive, Suite 7 makes a unanimous endorse- Lisle, IL 60532-3848 Lorain, OH 44053 29 Proud to Serve ment for president 630-743-5320 440-282-4340 32 Executive Vice President Region 4: DAN VERSLUIS Region 12: DAVID J. NAPADANO 33 Vice President 8 News from Washington (Arizona, Arkansas, , (Pennsylvania, South and Central Oklahoma, Wyoming) New Jersey) 34 Secretary-Treasurer Postal issues are in the spotlight 12015 E. 46th Ave., Suite 550 Four Neshaminy Interplex, Suite 111 Denver, CO 80239 Trevose, PA 19053 35 Assistant Secretary-Treasurer as NALC continues to lobby for 720-828-6840 215-824-4826 36 Director of City Delivery the HEROES Act Region 5: MICHAEL BIRKETT Region 13: VADA E. PRESTON 37 Director of Safety and Health (Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas) (Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West 39 Director of Retired Members 10 USPS reorganizes 1828 Craig Road Virginia, Washington, DC) St. Louis, MO 63146 P.O. 2660 40 Director of Life Insurance General Louis DeJoy 314-985-8040 Ashburn, VA 20146 41 Director, Health Benefit Plan 703-840-2010 announces a reorganization Region 6: TROY CLARK 42 Contract Talk of the Postal Service’s manage- (Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan) Region 14: RICHARD J. DICECCA 43456 Mound Road, Suite 501 (Connecticut, Maine, Massachu- 44 Muscular Dystrophy Association ment structure Sterling Heights, MI 48314 setts, New Hampshire, Rhode 46 Staff Reports 586-997-9917 Island, Vermont) 33 Boston Post Road W., Suite 360 48 Annuity charts 14 The mail mix Region 7: TROY D. FREDENBURG Marlborough, MA 01752-1813 50 Honor Roll We take a look at what’s in the (Minnesota, North Dakota, South 617-363-9299 Dakota, Wisconsin) 53 State Summaries mail and why it’s more vital than Broadway Place West Region 15: LARRY CIRELLI 1300 Godward St. NE, Suite 2600 (Northern New Jersey, New York, 54 Election Notices ever in these trying times Minneapolis, MN 55413 SW Connecticut, Puerto Rico, Virgin 60 Veterans Group 612-378-3035 Islands) 20 Looking the part 347 W. 41st St., Suite 102 61 Nalcrest Update/Retiree Reports Region 8: STEVE LASSAN New York, NY 10036-6941 62 Branch Items Uniforms always have been an (Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, 212-868-0284 ) 67 Cost-of-living adjustment important part of letter carrier 160 Commissioner Drive 71 Auxiliary Update/In Memoriam identity; learn about the uniform Meridianville, AL 35759-2038 256-828-8205 72 Mutual Exchange ads allowance and more

2 The Postal Record September 2020 Letter from the Editor

Regional rules e’ve discussed the value of on the hard work and valor of letter carriers that also featured using local media outlets to Jose Estavez of West Coast Florida Branch 1477, a Navy veteran. Wget our message out. Though Told almost entirely through an NALC perspective, the story they lack the reach and prestige of na- also quoted Florida State Association President Al Friedman tional news organizations, they often and Branch 1477 President Joe Henschen. “After the story ran,” are better vehicles for communicating the latter said, “residents were saying ‘Hi’ to letter carriers, tell- with the public. ing them how proud they are of them. That’s what the letter National outlets are seen by many carriers I represent are telling me on the workroom floor. They people we need to reach as remote were just overwhelmed with the support of the community.” from their lives. Local media tend to be A day before the Dallas story, the Allentown (PA) Morn- more trusted; familiar with—and to— ing Call did a story on postal operations and delivery issues, the folks and organizations and com- quoting NALC’s statement on service issues in a manner that munities they report on, their reporters demonstrated our commitment to the public and to timely liable to be standing next to you in line delivery, and benefiting from information provided by Region at the grocery store. The downside, of 12 Regional Administrative Assistant Brian Thompson. It, too, course, is the limited audience. ran on A1, paired with another postal-related story on mail-in Philip An attractive option exists in be- ballots—a powerful one-two punch in Pennsylvania’s third- tween. Regional media outlets are an largest newspaper. Dine overlooked resource in reaching large numbers of folks in targeted markets. So, in short order, impressive teamwork by letter carriers Not overlooked, however, by letter carriers. provided several million people in key states—and their rep- resentatives, fully aware of what their constituents had just At a key moment for NALC, letter carriers have tapped into read—with helpful coverage by trusted news outlets. regional outlets in states with populations (and senators) we That was followed by another regional tour de force, when— need to inform and influence. Smart and quick work at all lev- with deadline looming at an ABC TV affiliate in Pittsburgh, els of our union has made that happen. Consider just a five- Branch 84 President Ted Lee stepped up to discuss delivery day stretch last month. matters. The sense of mission and public service demon- On Aug. 2, Texans awoke to a Dallas Morning News Sunday strated by this Air Force and National Guard veteran resonat- edition featuring an A1 (journalese for the front page) story. It ed among a key audience in Pennsylvania, eastern wove together the value of the Postal Service and letter carri- Ohio and northern West Virginia—all the more because the ers, Texas voices extolling USPS, and Washington policy de- reporter was known to viewers for his four decades covering bates in a way that put the stakes in bold relief. The headline Pittsburgh. alone emphasized much of what we want to get across: Sen- Meanwhile, President Rolando helped drive coverage of ate, seniors, businesses, essential agency. USPS’s quarterly financial report, with several outlets high- The Morning News, influential also in Oklahoma and Arkan- lighting his comments emphasizing the need for pandemic- sas, largest newspaper in the South and in any red state, is the related federal assistance. The same day, he was quoted in an country’s sixth-largest daily newspaper. Why the story, why story run by newspapers around the coun- the great play? Largely because Region 10 National Business try, noting our concern about delivery issues. Agent Javier Bernal and Dallas Branch 132 President Kimetra Lewis, assisted by Houston Branch 283 President Willie Fergu- Thanks to a breadth of talent and initiative unmatched in son and Recording/Financial Secretary Perla Garza, provided the labor movement, this is a union clicking on all cylinders the reporters with Texas small-business folks eager to discuss when it matters most. USPS’s indispensable role. Javier and Kim also were quoted to great effect, as was NALC chief of staff Jim Sauber. EDITORIAL STAFF: Subscription included in membership dues. Director of Communications and Media First-class subscription available Three days later, a last-minute request by Florida’s largest Relations Philip Dine for $20 per year (contact Membership Designer/Web Editor Mike Shea Department). paper, the Tampa Bay Times, for a local letter carrier to inter- Writer/Editor Rick Hodges view about how his or her job has evolved with the pandemic Writer/Editor Jenessa Wagner © 2020 by the National Association of Editorial Assistant Clare Foley Letter Carriers. and with recent operational changes, sent several NALC folks Circulation: 287,000. Union-printed using The Postal Record (ISSN 0032-5376) soy-based inks. into action. Executive Vice President Brian Renfroe reached is published monthly by the National out to Region 9 NBA Lynne Pendleton, who provided Tampa Association of Letter Carriers. Periodicals CHANGE of ADDRESS? Contact the Member- postage paid at Washington, DC, and at ship Department. Branch 599 member Michael Williams. The Army veteran/re- additional mailing offices. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram servist was interviewed late that evening after finishing his POSTMASTER: Send address changes and YouTube by going to NALC.org. route. His engagement on short notice allowed the paper, to Membership Department, NALC, 100 Indiana Ave. NW, Washington, among the country’s dozen largest, to run a prominent story DC 20001-2144.

September 2020 The Postal Record 3 News

NALC endorses Biden for president A special message from NALC President Fredric Rolando am pleased to announce that the delivery, which is a lifeline for rural Americans. We Executive Council of the National will also support new revenue streams for the USPS, Association of Letter Carriers has including allowing secure shipping of alcoholic voted unanimously to endorse beverages by mail and exploring options to enable the Democratic candidates for unbanked and underbanked Americans to access fi- Ipresident and vice president, Joe nancial services through the Postal Service. Biden and Kamala Harris. The former Sen. Harris has revealed herself to be a close ally of let- vice president and the senator from ter carriers in her first term in the Senate. As a member of the California have been staunch support- Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, which ers of letter carriers and the U.S. Postal has jurisdiction over federal and postal issues, her team has Service, and have earned the NALC’s taken a proactive stance, working closely with NALC on postal unequivocal endorsement. issues over the past two years. This includes co-sponsoring the The Executive Council vote occurred Postal Service Emergency Assistance Act (H.R. 4174), which Thursday night, Aug. 13, via telecon- would provide a $25 billion appropriation to help the Postal ference. It follows a months-long pro- Service weather the pandemic. Her varied experience as a local cess of polling our members and reviewing the candidates’ prosecutor in California, as state attorney general and as sena- views and records on the most important job-related issues tor—along with her evident intelligence and empathy for work- to NALC members—job security, workplace rights and em- ers—have prepared her well to serve as our next vice president. ployment/retiree benefits. With respect to polling, our endorsement reflects the dem- onstrated preference of NALC’s membership. In the postcard “How members vote and what poll we conducted through our magazine, members preferred issues matter most to them is Biden over Trump by a greater than 2-to-1 ratio (58.4 percent versus 26.6 percent—reflecting a similar result from a scien- their business and their decision. tific poll conducted for us by Hart Research earlier this year. Our messaging is intended for As for the candidates’ records, the Biden-Harris ticket is clear- ly superior for letter carriers and their families. President Trump, members who make their voting who refused to fill out our candidate survey, has demonstrated decision based on how it will unrelenting hostility to the Postal Service and its workers over the past four years, attacking the agency as “a joke” and call- affect their jobs, benefits, working ing for the elimination of our collective-bargaining rights while conditions and careers.” proposing budgets that would slash our pensions and health benefits. He’s pushed privatization and deregulation, and has The Trump-Pence ticket has decided that it will run on blocked any help for USPS in COVID-19 relief legislation. This the same GOP platform it adopted in 2016, which ignored record is spelled out in last month’s Postal Record. the Postal Service altogether while calling for cuts to federal By contrast, former Vice President Biden has spent a career employee pay and benefits. This decision to recycle an out- fighting for working people. His vocal support for unions and dated and inadequate platform essentially ignores the three- his backing for the USPS have been loud and clear. He not only pronged crisis our nation currently faces: a pandemic, an eco- responded positively to our candidate questionnaire, but also nomic meltdown and a racial justice crisis. has made sure that the platform of the Democratic Party in- As I always make clear to NALC members, we respect the cludes a commitment to strengthen the Postal Service. It states: diversity of political opinions in our union. How members vote The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is the world’s most ef- and what issues matter most to them is their business and their ficient mail carrier, and Democrats are wholly com- decision. Our messaging is intended for members who make mitted to supporting a public USPS. We will fight all their voting decision based on how it will affect their jobs, ben- efforts to privatize the USPS and will work to ensure efits, working conditions and careers. We stay strong by focus- the USPS is financially sustainable, including by re- ing on the issues that unite us while respecting our diversity. pealing the mandate that the agency “pre-fund” re- tiree health costs. Democrats will protect the Postal Service’s universal service obligation as a core Amer- ican value and maintain six-day and doorstep mail

4 The Postal Record September 2020 Democratic and Republican national committees adopt party platforms political party’s platform is a formal set of policy goals sup- Aported by the party as a whole. The contents are intended to commu- nicate the party’s ideas and beliefs to the public and identify the presidential candidate’s objectives should he or she be elected. Generally, political parties release a new platform ahead of each presidential election. The platforms are finalized and voted on at the parties’ conventions. The Democratic and Republican party platforms cover a wide range of domestic and foreign policy matters. Among them: the Postal Service. On July 27, the Democratic Na- tional Committee (DNC) announced its platform’s guiding principles. The platform, adopted during the virtual Democratic National Convention in August, included NALC’s input on priorities for the Postal Service. That platform is as follows: Strengthening the maintaining six-day and door- Convention Committee on Platform, in U.S. Postal Service to-door delivery, and appointing appreciation of the fact that it did not members to the Board of Governors want a small contingent of delegates The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and the Postal Regulatory Commis- formulating a new platform without is the world’s most efficient mail sion who champion a strong public the breadth of perspectives within the carrier, and Democrats are wholly Postal Service. We will also support ever-growing Republican movement.” committed to supporting a public new revenue streams for the USPS, In June, discussions began within USPS. We will fight all efforts to including allowing secure ship- the party to retain its platform at the privatize the USPS and will work ping of alcoholic beverages by mail behest of the president. While the to ensure the USPS is financially and exploring options to enable 2016 platform made no mention of the sustainable, including by repeal- unbanked and underbanked Ameri- Postal Service, it was clear in its view ing the mandate that the agency cans to access financial services of the federal workforce: “pre-fund” retiree health costs. through the Postal Service. Democrats will protect the Postal Improving the Federal Workforce Service’s universal service obliga- In sharp contrast, the Republican We recognize the dedication of tion as a core American value and National Committee (RNC) did not most employees of the federal maintain six-day and doorstep seek NALC’s input on priorities for government and thank them for mail delivery, which is a lifeline for the Postal Service. Instead, the RNC their service, with special praise rural Americans. And we will work announced via resolution, on the for the whistleblowers who risk to restore service to appropriate eve of its convention on Aug. 24, that their careers to expose waste, levels, including overnight delivery due to COVID-19, it would not amend fraud, and misuse of power. None of first-class mail and periodicals its 2016 platform, stating: “The RNC of them should ever be compelled within the same metropolitan area, has unanimously voted to forego the to join a union or pay dues to it.

September 2020 The Postal Record 5 News

In fairness to their fellow workers, for workers across the economy, vigorously protect all private-sector union representatives should not be which is why Democrats will priori- workers’ right to strike without allowed to engage in union-related tize passing the PRO Act and restor- fear of coercion, interference, and activities while on the public’s time. ing workers’ rights, including the undue delay. We will also establish The inability of federal managers to right to launch secondary boycotts. the federal government’s role in discipline and, if necessary, dismiss We will repeal so-called “right to promoting and facilitating collec- problem staff members is an affront work” laws that undermine worker tive bargaining and helping the to every conscientious worker, as power and lead to lower wages and parties bring their negotiations to is the misuse of funds for lavish less protection for workers across a rapid and successful conclusion, conferences and routine bonuses. the economy, and ensure those committing to a high standard for The appointees of a Republican who have been left without wage intervening in strikes, including president will work with career and hour protections for decades— under the Railway Labor Act. managers to end those abuses including domestic workers and and enforce high standards for all farmworkers—have the same rights The right of workers to come togeth- federal employees. We reaffirm the as other workers. Democrats will er and form a union is under attack. existing protections that provide all support legislation to strengthen We must unrig the rules that block employees of the federal govern- whistleblower and anti-retaliation workers from having the union they ment the opportunity to pursue protections for workers who speak want and update our labor laws their desire to serve their country for themselves or their coworkers. to make it more possible. We must free from discrimination. We call And we will take action to rein in change labor law so that it is easier for renewed efforts to reduce, rather anti-competitive corporate power for unions and employers to enter than expand, government respon- by rewriting the rules that have into multi-employer agreements sibilities, and we urge particular undermined workers’ ability to establishing minimum workplace attention to the bloated public advocate for themselves, including standards related to wages, ben- relations budgets of the depart- non-compete clauses, no-poaching efits, and working conditions. ments and agencies. The federal agreements, and contracts that The Republican platform, in con- government spends too much of the force workers into mandatory trast, prioritizes rolling back laws and people’s money telling the people arbitration to resolve violations of regulations that benefit unions and what they should do. employment laws. workers: The Democratic platform makes Democrats will recognize unions The unionization of the federal several commitments to strengthen- with majority sign-up—via “card workforce, first permitted by Demo- ing labor rights for federal employees check” processes—and ban captive and other workers: crat presidents in the 1960s, should audience meetings, which employ- be reviewed by the appropriate con- Democrats will fight to raise wages ers use to bully and browbeat work- gressional committees to examine ers. We will hold executives person- for working people and improve job its effects on the cost, quality, and ally accountable if they interfere quality and security, including by performance of the civil service. in workers’ efforts to organize, raising the federal minimum wage Union representatives in the federal so it reaches $15 an hour by 2026. including issuing criminal penalties workforce should not be paid to Raising the federal minimum wage, for intentional obstruction. We will conduct union business on the so fewer workers are forced to hold take action to guarantee that when public’s time. down multiple jobs to make ends workers come to the table, they are meet, will significantly decrease able to bargain with the employ- These platforms show a stark risks of infection from COVID-19 ers who actually hold the power, contrast in goals and priorities when and in the future. We know that including franchisors, and penalize looking ahead to a potential Biden strong American labor unions help companies that bargain in bad faith administration versus four more years increase wages and job standards with their workers. Democrats will of a Trump administration. PR

6 The Postal Record September 2020 News

Union Plus awards college scholarships to children of NALC members nion Plus has awarded scholar- Quintana, is a New Iberia, LA Branch ships to three children of NALC 988 member. Umembers. Quintana will attend the University Esther Lee of , NY, received of Louisiana at Lafayette as a commu- a $1,000 scholarship. Lee’s father, nicative disorders major. She aspires Kent Lee, is a mem- to become a speech pathologist. ber of Brooklyn, NY Eventually, she would like to open a that is the largest nonprofit operated by Branch 41. clinic for young children with learn- minors in West Virginia. Lee plans to begin ing disabilities. Quintana graduated In addition to her father’s NALC mem- college this fall as at the top of her high school class bership, her mother is a member of the a pharmacy major, after taking all honors core classes American Federation of Teachers (AFT). having discovered and completing six dual-credit college During the 2018 West Virginia teach- a passion for the courses, including math, medical ers strike, Randan joined her mother pharmacy profession terminology, English and history. and other AFT members for a march at through volunteering. Quintana remembers attending the state capitol. “I witnessed the true Esther Lee She was a member union-sponsored food drives with her power of unions and what they can of her high school’s father as a child and has seen how accomplish,” she said. “Unions connect Medical Science Institute and has pre- the union has supported her father workers and prove there is strength in pared for college by taking Advanced through scheduling negotiations, pay numbers. Watching my dad protect jobs Placement (AP) classes and college- raises and job security. “Balancing the and marching with my mom for teacher credit courses through the Brooklyn demands of work and family is wages taught me that there College’s CollegeNow Program. a challenge for most working is immeasurable power in In addition to her father’s NALC Americans, and unions help unity.” membership, Lee’s mother is a mem- them achieve that balance,” Union Plus is a program ber of the American Federation of she said. “NALC gives my fam- founded by the AFL-CIO State, County and Municipal Employ- ily the peace of mind we need to provide benefit pro- ees (AFSCME). Lee said that unions at all times.” grams to union members have had a significant impact on her Abigail Randan of Proc- (current and retired) and family. “Their dedication to providing torville, OH, won a scholar- their families. the vital services that ship for $1,000. Abigail Randan Since 1992, Union Plus have helped my family Leryn Quintana Randan’s father, Scholarship awards have and countless others James Randan, been presented annu- is what has helped is a member of Hunting- ally to union members or members communities such as ton, WV Branch 359. of their families who want to begin mine thrive,” she said. Randan plans to major or continue their post-secondary “Many of the oppor- in neuroscience when she education. This year, Union Plus tunities that we’ve starts college this fall, and awarded $300,000 in scholarships to had are notably due wants to be a pediatric 215 students representing 43 unions. to union aid. Because neurologist. She gradu- Go to unionplus.org/scholarship for of this, my family’s ated at the top of her high applications and benefit eligibility. future is secure finan- school class after com- In addition to the scholarship pro- cially, socially, and pleting eight AP courses. gram, Union Plus provides a range of emotionally.” Randan was on the plan- money-saving programs and services Leryn Quintana of Saint Mart- ning committee for Dance Green, a high for union members and families. Go to inville, LA, was awarded a $1,000 school group that raises money for the nalc.org/member-benefits/benefits-for- scholarship. Quintana’s father, Eric Hoops Family Children’s Hospital and members/union-plus for details. PR

September 2020 The Postal Record 7 Correction: In the July issue, we News mistakenly implied that the Depart- ment of Labor’s new rule to allow retirement plan administrators to use electronic delivery for required docu- ments rather than paper would affect CSRS, FERS or the TSP. It does not. News from Washington Postal issues take center stage in Congress, administration and public ince June, the nation’s capital senators immediately slammed the pro- izing isolated operational incidents has been busy with postal issues. posal for other reasons, such as taking that I acknowledge can occur, and SAnd while a lot has happened, on additional spending, payroll tax cuts have always occurred in a business of not much has been accomplished. and liability protections for employers. our size and scope, or attempting to While members of Congress were McConnell immediately retreated from impose unfunded mandates unrelated in Washington briefly in July and addressing any Senate measure, defer- to any postal policies, I ask members August, most of their time was spent ring his leadership to the White House of Congress to take action on this one arguing over whether additional to negotiate directly with House and legislative burdensome issue that will COVID-19-related relief would be ap- Senate Democratic leaders. actually make a difference.” proved before the August recess. The Despite the lack of Senate GOP That statement, given during House passed its relief package, the leadership, negotiations between the his first meeting with the Board of Health and Economic Recovery Omni- White House and Democratic leaders Governors on Aug. 7, came amidst bus Emergency Solutions, or HEROES, progressed for a brief period. Demo- implementation of various USPS man- Act (H.R. 6800), four months ago. crats pushed relentlessly for their agement initiatives that are result- The bill contains the postal relief that $3.4 trillion to $3.7 trillion measure, ing in delayed mail and undelivered NALC has been lobbying aggressively while the White House sought to keep routes in many areas of the country, for, including: the confines of any deal limited to $1 realignment of the USPS management • Receiving $25 billion in direct ap- trillion. A deal looked within reach, structure, and a recent letter from the propriations to help USPS weather especially on the issue of Postal Postal Service to 46 states, essentially the financial crisis brought on by Service relief, but it all fell apart. The implying that those states will need to the pandemic-related economic broken pieces have left Congress and pay First Class rates to ensure two- or shutdown. the public singularly focused on the three-day service on ballots. Postal Service’s ability to serve the The result of these actions has • Removing restrictions placed in public, especially on Election Day. been nothing short of public and the previous COVID-19 relief bill, The focus on the Postal Service congressional outrage, including the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and comes on the heels of significant protests and press conferences out- Economic Security (CARES) Act, and high-profile USPS happenings, side post offices, as well as demon- on the $10 billion in added USPS including the appointment of a new strations in front of the postmaster borrowing authority from the U.S. . Louis DeJoy took general’s home. In addition, Senate Treasury. the reins on June 15 and immediately Homeland Security and Government • Creating a “Heroes Fund,” which zeroed in on congressional inaction. Affairs Committee (HSGAC) Ranking would provide hazard or premium “As we have repeatedly stated, Member Gary Peters (D-MI) launched pay of $13 per hour premium pay Congress and the Postal Regula- an investigation into nationwide on top of regular wages, up to tory Commission have long delayed service issues, including mail delays, $10,000 for essential front-line much-needed legislative and regu- non-delivered routes and some elimi- workers, including letter carriers latory reforms to help address the nation of overtime. House Oversight and other postal employees. situation,” DeJoy said. “Congress and Government Reform (COR) Chair- At the end of July, Senate Major- must enact reform legislation that woman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) also ity Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) addresses our unaffordable retirement called both the postmaster general unveiled the Senate’s GOP counterpro- payments. Most importantly, Con- and Robert Duncan, the chairman posal, a $1 trillion relief package called gress must allow the Postal Service to of the postal Board of Governors, to the Health, Economic Assistance, integrate our retiree health benefits testify before the committee. Liability Protection and Schools program with Medicare, which is a On Aug. 18, in response to mount- (HEALS) Act. Unfortunately, that common-sense best practice followed ing pressure from the House to negoti- measure did not include any mention by all businesses who still offer retiree ate over additional COVID-19 relief, of the Postal Service, and some GOP health care. Rather than sensational- McConnell announced the Delivering

8 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Correction: In the July issue, we mistakenly implied that the Depart- Interest arbitration update ment of Labor’s new rule to allow NALC is prepared to begin the interest arbitration hearings for a new National retirement plan administrators to use Agreement. As the union has prepared for the proceedings, it also has continued electronic delivery for required docu- the negotiations with the Postal Service in an effort to reach a tentative settle- ments rather than paper would affect ment. In just a few short weeks, NALC either will have a tentative agreement, or CSRS, FERS or the TSP. It does not. the union will begin the hearings, which are scheduled to start on Sept. 23.

Immediate Relief to America’s Fami- ing Member Peters and Chairwoman discussed in the Senate. The Senate lies, Schools and Small Businesses Maloney, known as the Delivering for does not intend to return to Washing- Act—a draft “skinny” proposal of the America Act (S. 4527 and H.R. 8015, ton until after Labor Day, when it will Senate’s previously announced July 27 respectively), nearly identical bills have only a few weeks to reach a deal proposal, the HEALS Act. that would prevent the Postal Service on a COVID-19 measure and fund the The $500 billion measure includes from making changes to service stan- government beyond Sept. 30. employer liability protections, small dards during a pandemic. Even with no agreement among business support, limited extension On a rare Saturday session dur- the House, Senate and White House, of unemployment insurance, vac- ing August recess, the House passed congressional interest in the Postal cine development and limited money H.R. 8015, the Delivering for America Service is not waning. With reported for schools. Of note, the bill would Act, by a vote of 257-150. Joining nationwide service delays, both the convert the $10 billion line of credit Democrats in voting for the bill were HSGAC and COR committees convened for the Postal Service approved by 26 Republicans: Reps. Don Bacon back-to-back hearings calling in new the CARES Act earlier this year into (NE), Troy Balderson (OH), Mike Bost Postmaster General DeJoy to testify. a grant to be accessed once Postal (IL), Vern Buchanan (FL), Rodney In the House, PMG DeJoy testified Service cash on hand dips below $8 Davis (IL), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA), Jeff alongside Robert M. Duncan, chairman billion. Fortenberry (NE), Sam Graves (MO), of the USPS Board of Governors. Both The inclusion follows significant Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA), Will Hurd committees questioned the new PMG mail delays reported nationwide and (TX), Dave Joyce (OH), John Katko on a wide range of issues, including mounting pressure on senators to ad- (NY), Peter King (NY), Doug LaMalfa his background and his communica- dress postal relief, and three months (CA), David McCaul (TX), David tions with the Trump administration, after House passage of the HEROES McKinley (WV), Tom Reed (NY), Chris USPS capacity for processing ballots Act. Smith (NJ), Pete Stauber (MN), Elise in the upcoming election, the need for Aside from the inadequate response Stefanik (NY), Steve Stivers (OH), COVID-19 relief, postal reform prefer- to postal relief, the skinny Senate Mike Turner (OH), Fred Upton (MI), ences, mail service delays, removal of measure does nothing to help 28 Jeff Van Drew (NJ), Ann Wagner (MO) sortation equipment and collection million Americans on unemployment and Don Young (AK). , limitations on overtime, and and provides no money for testing, “NALC deeply appreciates members other issues of concern. DeJoy largely hospitals, rental assistance, eviction of Congress setting aside partisan defended his actions, but made abun- moratoriums, state and local govern- politics by voting to ensure that the dantly clear that the Postal Service will ments whose budgets are exhausted, Postal Service has the resources nec- process every ballot in its possession state nutrition assistance programs or essary to meet the needs of the public in a timely manner. underfunded schools, to name a few. through the election and pandemic,” With the November election just The announcement of the skinny NALC President Fredric Rolando around the corner, interest in the proposal has done nothing to bring said. “We hope the White House and Postal Service from Congress and the House, Senate and the administra- Senate will follow the lead of the public remains high. We expect a very tion back to the negotiating table to House of Representatives and work to busy September with postal issues discuss a broader relief package. provide the same relief.” at the forefront. NALC members are Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi Passage of the House bill follows encouraged to contact their senators (D-CA) called members back to Wash- the breakdown in negotiations among to urge them to take action to provide ington during the August recess to the White House, House and Sen- the Postal Service with relief, favor- vote on legislation that would prevent ate on a larger COVID-19 relief bill. able loan terms and conditions, and the Postal Service from making ser- The House passed the HEROES Act hazard pay. vice changes during a pandemic. four months ago, and the Senate has For the latest information, please The legislation originated from re- subsequently announced two limited visit the “Government Affairs” section cently introduced legislation by Rank- measures, neither of which has been of the NALC website. PR

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 9 News

USPS reorganizes...again new postmaster general arrives ington, DC, headquarters of the U.S. logistics and processing sector will and promptly shakes up the Postal Service; bifurcated the manage- consist of 12 divisions within two Amanagement structure of the ment of “distribution” functions (mail regions reporting to another head- Postal Service. It’s not a new story. processing and transport) from “cus- quarters COO. Reshuffling the organizational chart tomer service” functions (retail and The four new areas for retail and has happened many times in the delivery); reduced the number of field delivery are Western-Pacific, South- history of the Post Office. The very “divisions” from 73 to 60, and aimed to ern, Central and Atlantic. The two structure of NALC is a remnant of that eliminate 30,000 managerial jobs from regions for logistics and processing history—our 15 regional offices mirror the 130,000 administrative jobs then in are Western and Eastern. The 12 divi- a long-ago, but eventually discarded, existence, via an early-out program. In sions within those two regions are structure of the former Post Office this context, the restructuring plan an- Pacific Northwest, Southern Califor- Department. nounced by PMG DeJoy seems far more nia, Southwest, Midwest, Mid-South, The restructuring plan of Postmaster modest in scope. Westshore, Lakeshore, Mid-Atlantic, General Louis DeJoy, announced in The new organizational structure Coastal Southeast, Chesapeake, New early August, is reminiscent of the ma- will consist of three operating sec- York Metro and New England. jor shake-up sponsored by Postmaster tors: Retail and Delivery Operations, As part of the modified organiza- General Marvin Runyon in 1992. Logistics and Processing Operations, tional structure, logistics and mail- Like PMG DeJoy, “Carvin’ Marvin,” and Commerce and Business Solu- processing operations will report as he was known, came from the pri- tions. The current field structure for into the new Logistics and Processing vate sector—he worked for the Ford processing and delivering the mail Operations organization, which will Motor Co. for years before joining consists of 67 districts within seven be separate from existing area and as head of North American areas that report to a headquarters district reporting structures. This operations, and then moved on to chief operating officer (COO). Under includes all mail-processing facili- serve as chairman of the Tennessee the new structure, the retail and ties and local transportation network Valley Authority (TVA). His reorgani- delivery sector will consist of 67 offices. USPS states that the purpose zation plan was far more dramatic. districts (as of the publication of this of splitting operations into these two His plan cut the number of senior article) within four areas reporting regions is to allow for improved focus executives from 42 to 24 at the Wash- to one headquarters COO, and the and clear communication channels. USPS also states that future changes will be made as it continues to identify addi- tional operational efficiencies. The next evaluation to be completed involves potential consolidations within the 67 districts. So far, 23 postal execu- tives have been reassigned or displaced under the new organizational structure. Ad- ditionally, according to the re- organization plan, the Postal Service has implemented a management hiring freeze and will be requesting future voluntary early retirement

10 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 were managers. Nearly 30,000 senior carriers and clerks also took the early out, which caused the quality of service to plum- met and overtime rates to soar. The bifurcation of management also resulted in poor quality control, and Runyon was forced to put in place a new level of mid-management—10 area vice presidents—to better coordinate distribution and customer service. And in the end, the Postal Service had more employees when Runyon left in 1998 than when he arrived. Time will tell whether PMG DeJoy’s more modest plan fares any better. NALC President Fredric Rolando made NALC’s posi- tion about the restructuring clear by issuing the follow- ing statement: “Regardless of the operational structure of the Postal Service, NALC will continue to prioritize safe and efficient work methods, good service to our customers, dignity and respect in the workplace, and contractual compli- ance. We are in the process of engaging those within the new operational struc- authority from the Office of Person- results were mixed at best. He did ture to rescind several operational nel Management for employees not succeed in thinning out the ranks initiatives that are clearly inconsis- represented by a collective-bargain- of Washington, DC-based manage- tent with these objectives. Rather ing agreement. ment, but the field reorganization than fostering the unilateral imple- It is difficult to predict how well largely failed. The early-out program, mentation of reckless initiatives, the reorganizations will work. Looking which offered a severance package Postal Service must work with the back at PMG Runyon’s attempt to worth six months’ pay, led 48,000 NALC in our joint task forces to ac- streamline the Postal Service, the employees to leave—but only 13,000 complish our common goals.” PR

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 11 OffOff thethe iceice ontoonto To the delight of his cus- tomers, Phillip Timmer- man delivered mail on thethe routeroute a short loop in costume in April as the COVID-19 pandemic forced many to stay at home.

hillip Timmerman doesn’t game—then made a beeline off the like to be caught without his ice and out of the limelight. After P head on. the game, a few fans pointed out P his “low energy.” The Dubuque, IA Branch 257 mem- ber, who began as a rural carrier in The carrier says that becom- 2014 and switched to city delivery the ing a mascot requires practice. “I following year, was a fan and season watched a lot of YouTube videos ticket holder of the local junior hockey on professional mascots,” he said, team, known as the Dubuque Fighting adding that the old cliché “fake it Saints. In 2016, “they were in need of a till you make it” is apt. “I wing it The carrier with his family mascot,” he said. a lot.” Timmerman had never been a Just moving around in the suit One charity event, “Over the Edge,” mascot before. However, he had done requires effort. “I see through Bernie’s took place last summer at a hotel in some acting in his high school days mouth and have no peripheral vision,” downtown Dubuque. Timmerman, as a hobby, so “it was kind of in my Timmerman says. “It takes a lot of get- dressed as Bernie, went to the top of wheelhouse,” he said. ting used to. Kids will sneak up behind the building, got harnessed up and On a whim, he filled out an applica- you. You have to use your other senses.” rappelled down the side. “I was ter- tion. As it turned out, he was the only Although there now are a few others rified,” he said, adding that it took a applicant, so he soon got the call that who play the role, Timmerman is the lot of trust, but that he was happy to he would be Bernie the Saint Bernard. primary Bernie the Saint Bernard, and support a good cause. He was excited. But first, Timmer- tries to make it to each of the 30 games The job entails a lot of fan interac- man said, “I had to learn how to ice per season. The doors open at 6 p.m.; tion: posing for photos with fans, doing skate.” he is expected to be in costume by pranks (for which he gets permission), To do so, the carrier went to the rink then, and he performs throughout the and making big gestures to garner once a week and practiced. Eventually, game until it ends around 9:30 p.m. smiles and laughs from the crowd. he was able to gain enough skating There also are a number of commu- When boys and girls see Bernie, they skills to begin as Bernie. nity and charity events that Bernie is don’t know what to expect from him. His first game, in February 2017, expected to attend; Timmerman goes “I try to do things a dog would was “scary” and “awkward,” Timmer- whenever his schedule allows. “If I do—wag my tail, run laps around a man said. He went out on center ice can help out, I’ll help out however I person,” Timmerman said. “I watch and waved the team’s flag to begin the can,” he said. my dog and see what he does.”

12 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Right and below: Timmerman performs at Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey games as the Bernie the Saint Bernard mascot. thethe iceice

Timmerman says the job is fun but The first season, Timmerman kept “Right about when the season ontoonto exhausting, adding that it’s important his secret identity as Bernie under ended, a lot of people were bummed to take breaks. wraps until he got good at it. Now, he out,” he said. “I wanted to bring some the route He tries to be in the costume for says with a laugh, “everyone knows positive news and something fun to the route only 20 minutes at a time, as it can be who I am. I openly flaunt it.” the customers of Dubuque.” uncomfortable. “The suit has a lot of Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the In early April, the carrier got ap- fur on it, and it doesn’t vent heat very remainder of the 2019-2020 hockey proval from the Saints and approached well,” the carrier said. season was canceled. The Saints had his branch president, Chad Olson, And, as most people know, it’s a big been in second place in the league who liked the idea of Bernie delivering no-no to be seen in costume without when the season was suspended, mail to patrons. It was then brought to the head on. Timmerman says there’s so a lot of excitement had built up, the local postmaster, who kicked it up a large pathway under the ice arena’s Timmerman said. to the post office operations manager, bleachers that is sort of a “safe haven” Between delivering mail and per- who was all for it. for him, but he has to stay aware, forming as Bernie, it’s a lot of time On April 9, the carrier, who was a because the area gets some fan activity away from family, so although the T-6 at the time, delivered a loop in when the players skate out onto the ice. cancellation was sad, Timmerman costume. He was once taking a break there, was grateful to have more time with He kept it to a small distance sans Bernie’s head, during a birthday his wife and two young sons. Tim- because of the terrain. “I knew on con- party of 11- and 12-year-olds, who saw merman currently has the costume at crete it wasn’t a big deal,” he said, but him. “They were pretty cool about it,” home and “will bust it out” from time he wasn’t sure about divots in people’s to time to entertain his children—as he said. He put himself back together yards. “You have to think it through,” well as fans through online videos. and danced around for the group. he added. That got him thinking that people Customers and kids came to their on his mail route could use some front porches to greet their local cheering up from Bernie while they mascot. “Mommy, look! It’s Bernie!” is were stuck at home, as the Fighting something he heard quite frequently. Saints have a lot of fans both in the “We were all able to have Bernie the post office and in the community. Saint Bernard be an honorary let- ter carrier for Dubuque,” Timmer- man said, adding that it was an enjoyable experience that boosted customer morale that day. Keeping the mood elevated is what it’s all about for Timmerman, who says the best part about be- ing Bernie is seeing big smiles on youngsters’ faces. “I’m out there trying to make it fun for kids and adults at the same time,” he said. “I try to be a positive influence on the game of hockey and the community.” PR

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 13 MAIL THE MIX What’s in the mail and why it’s more important than ever

he Postal Service and letter carriers are more important than ever during the pandemic, we—and the public—hear on a regular basis. That is said to stem from a variety of factors: Millions of people are sheltering at home because they have contractedT the virus, want to avoid it, or are seeking to protect vulnerable family members. Many people are limiting their visits to stores for safety reasons. Still others, hit hard by the economic shutdown, anxiously await government stimulus checks or other financial help. Meanwhile, most Americans need the important information on closings and openings, on elections, or the vital safety guidance that is being sent to them.

14 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 MAIL THE MIX What’s in the mail and why it’s more important than ever The common element in these coronavirus or the related econom- THE ENDURING factors is the mail itself. In all time ic shutdown—safety guidelines, IMPORTANCE OF MAIL periods, letter carriers are a welcome stimulus checks, and the mass sight on their routes, for a host of rea- delivery of vital supplies such as During the pandemic, letter carriers sons: They’re trusted members of the food and household items. have been deemed “essential work- community, they often help people in ers,” but this is only a reminder that • A key share of the mail involves an emergency, they may be deliver- postal employees and the mail they materials that are neither part of ing a birthday card or a letter from a deliver have always been essential. typical everyday mail nor related distant relative. But in these evolving Millions of people rely on the mail for to the pandemic but instead are a and unchartered times, letter carri- personal correspondence, prescription ers—and the mail they deliver—have coincidence of the calendar. Every medications and government benefit taken on a new meaning for hundreds household has received U.S. Census payments, and many trust the Postal of millions of Americans across the forms and, often, follow-up corre- Service more than the internet for country. spondence, for an event that occurs receiving bills and sending payments. Indeed, much of the “essential” na- every 10 years. Similarly, we are, In the case of this kind of mail, the ture—an official term designating the or will be, getting election-related pandemic has reminded the nation carrier craft during the pandemic—of mail, such as candidate flyers, poll- how much the mail, and the connec- what letter carriers do arises from the ing place information or ballots. tion it provides to the outside world, shifting composition of the mail during These would not be in the mail mix matter. this health and economic crisis. had the pandemic occurred in 2019 As any seasoned letter carrier knows In this story, we drill down into the or 2021—the last time a pandemic from experience, mail itself—why it is even more vital could have been accompanied by has soared in recent years, with more in this crisis, how the mail mix has both a presidential election and Americans shopping on their home shifted in just a few short months, a U.S. Census was 2000; the next computers and smartphones. The rap- and how its meaning has therefore time will be 2040. id growth in e-commerce has boosted package delivery by about 10 percent changed for Americans, whether in Obviously these three categories of per year in the last decade. large metropolitan areas or the small- mail overlap; medications, for ex- est of towns. Receiving prescriptions by mail, for ample, have been increasingly mailed example, has become increasingly There are many ways to characterize to residents as the population ages the mail mix, to conceptualize how the popular over time, especially for recur- and e-commerce grows; this trend is content and the meaning of the mail ring medications that require regular quickening because of shelter-at-home are changing in these unusual times. refills. As prescription delivery grew in practices. Meanwhile, it is not merely One approach is to divide the mail into popularity, brick-and-mortar pharma- the fact that election mail and the pan- the following three categories: cies struggled to compete, but now he Postal Service and letter carriers are more important demic are joined in time—the former is many have joined the party by setting • A portion of the mail consists of more important because of the latter, up their own delivery services. than ever during the pandemic, we—and the public—hear on items that have always been and with many Americans considering In fact, receiving prescriptions by a regular basis. That is said to stem from a variety of factors: remain important, perhaps even voting by mail for safety reasons, while mail is about more than convenience— more so in these times—personal Millions of people are sheltering at home because they have local election officials alert residents it can improve health outcomes by correspondence; regular govern- about pandemic-related changes in contracted the virus, want to avoid it, or are seeking to protect vulnerable bringing fewer interruptions in the T ment checks such as unemploy- election procedures or polling place supply of medications. For example, a family members. Many people are limiting their visits to stores for safety ment insurance; medications; or practices. study in the Journal of General Inter- reasons. Still others, hit hard by the economic shutdown, anxiously await bills and other financial communi- They are, nonetheless, a useful way nal Medicine found that 85 percent of cations. government stimulus checks or other financial help. Meanwhile, most to understand the big picture. patients using medication to control • There are new items that few Now let’s look at what’s in the mail, their cholesterol who used mail-order Americans need the important information on closings and openings, on envisioned at the start of the year how it’s evolving, and why it’s more pharmacies achieved target cholesterol elections, or the vital safety guidance that is being sent to them. but that have arisen because of the important than ever. levels, compared to 74.2 percent of pa-

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 15 MAIL THE MIX

tients who used only local pharmacies. Add to that mix the government ben- efit payments and other checks, bills received and paid by mail, financial statements, personal correspondence, , newspapers and magazines, and you have the basic mix of mail that Americans know and now, in these trying times, have come to appreciate—indeed, depend on—even more. In a very real way, these trends have created consumer habits and deliv- ery methods that now are making it possible for letter carriers to attempt to slow the spread of the virus by sup- plying tens of millions of Americans with vital supplies that allow them to During the pandemic, people are now receiv- shelter at home. ing medications by A LIFELINE DURING mail more frequently. A CRISIS easily pivot to fulfillment by mail. Maine State Association president. The Postal Service is the perfect “We are the leading delivery service The mail-order prescription business infrastructure for bringing essentials for online purchases,” USPS spokes- took off at full speed as the pandemic to people sheltering in place, and it was ready from Day One. As the man David Partenheimer said. took hold. pandemic rapidly spread across the In fact, the central role of pack- Many Americans rely on daily medi- country and millions of Americans age delivery in modern life makes it cation, and a large proportion of them stayed home, the Postal Service has difficult to imagine surviving a major are older, less mobile and more vulner- stepped in to serve many in new ways. pandemic without it. With e-commerce able to the COVID-19 virus. Though From stimulus payments and food and outlets fully prepared to fulfill the some already were relying on conve- household supplies to health informa- needs of a locked-down public com- nient mail-order delivery to connect tion about the new and unfamiliar bined with an economic shutdown, them with pharmacies, the pandemic COVID-19 virus, many items necessary package delivery has surged as the led to a surge in medication delivery during this crisis have made their way virus spread. Many brick-and-mortar by mail. In the last week of March, as to households through the mail. stores have closed under lockdown lockdowns gripped the country, the Thanks to the growth of e-com- orders, while nervous shoppers stayed volume of mailed prescriptions rose merce, the infrastructure for receiving away from stores that were deemed 21 percent compared to the previous vital supplies by mail and for busi- essential and remained open, such as month, according to pharmaceutical nesses to survive through mail delivery grocery stores. As shortages in some business analysts. already was in place when the pan- supplies like toilet paper and cleaning To help medication users get their demic struck. Shoppers knew where supplies emerged, shoppers turned to supplies while staying home safely and how to shop online, and tens of e-commerce to find them. during the pandemic, some states and millions boosted their e-commerce “The parcels are through the roof,” health plans waived refill limits to en- orders immediately; many businesses said Mark Seitz, president of Maine courage patients to get 90 days of drug either already shipped by mail or could Merged Branch 92, who also serves as supplies rather than the usual 30 days.

16 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Relaxing Medicaid policies also helped direct payments to millions of Ameri- Campaigns spent more than half a to boost mail-order medication—eight can households to boost the economy billion dollars on mail on the midterm states eliminated a requirement that and provide relief as the pandemic elections in 2018. In this high-stakes Medicaid recipients give a signature, spread, got to work. presidential election year, spending in person, to get prescriptions filled, The IRS was able to send the bulk of could go far higher. so as to encourage mail order in the the payments—120 million—by direct Of course, this is no ordinary elec- pandemic. deposit using its prior tax payment tion year. Given the need to avoid large Pharmaceuticals are an important records. But the agency still had to gatherings to control the spread of the part of the parcel growth, accord- reach taxpayers with no direct-deposit virus, many states have changed their ing to Pat Van Egeren, president of information—some perhaps with no laws to expand access to voting by Green Bay, WI Branch 619. “I do see bank accounts at all—and also some mail. The COVID-19 crisis has placed more medicine going through the mail Americans who had never filed tax an even-greater responsibility on the stream,” Van Egeren said. “Individu- returns. That added up to an addi- Postal Service to assist with the most als are feeling more secure, more safe, tional 38.7 million payments requiring important feature of our democracy— about it. And how much more conve- mailing paper checks or debit cards—a the ability of people to choose their nient can it get? It’s especially impor- total of $62 billion in payments. political leaders. tant today because people are quaran- Combine the presidential election tined or fearful of going out.” THE MAIL MIX year, the pandemic and the heated Analysts say that many new mail CONVERGES IN 2020 political climate, and the impact is clear, including in a remote area of customers are likely to stay with mail The mail composition during this Kansas where the closest city is 200 delivery even when the pandemic critical time also includes items that miles away. With a hard-fought Senate ends, because they will be accustomed were timed for the calendar but just primary battle in her part of western to the convenience. And, if and when happened to coincide with the pan- Kansas, speckled with small towns, in-home self-test kits for COVID-19 demic—and have contributed to mak- become available, many Americans ing 2020 a year to remember as we case During an election year, letter carriers deliver may both receive and return test kits and deliver the mail. Taken together, a lot of political mail. by mail. the events of this year serve as a re- Many Americans also are looking to minder of the importance the mail has the mail for financial help during the in both personal and public life. pandemic. The federal government has Every election year (even-numbered used the mail this year to deliver emer- years) brings a surge of mailings from gency economic stimulus payments. candidates and independent political Though the government sends most groups, and that is particularly so in routine benefit payments through 2020. The advantages of mail really electronic payments—direct deposit to shine in election campaigns: Mail is bank accounts or to debit cards—the proven to be effective and trustwor- economic stimulus payments enacted thy with voters, more likely to attract by Congress in March showed that the attention and make a lasting impres- mail remains essential for reaching sion, and one of the most cost-effective millions of Americans with vital pay- ways to reach voters directly in a given ments like the stimulus. legislative district. Garden City, KS Branch 1412 President Immediately after President Trump Moreover, each election, espe- Amanda Beckley said, “We saw, to signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, cially the every-four-year presidential certain voters, as many as seven pieces and Economic Security (CARES) Act on contests, seems to bring record levels [of political mail] a day.” March 27, the Internal Revenue Service of spending by campaigns and other Before 2020, voters in many states (IRS), which was tasked with making groups, fueling a flood of mail pieces. had at least some access to voting by

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 17 MAIL THE MIX

mail, and voters were slowly embrac- That includes 85 million people in 14 boosted mail were a significant genera- ing it. Nationwide, the proportion of states that automatically will mail ei- tor of mail volume and revenue in the votes cast by mail has grown steadily ther ballots or applications for mail-in first quarter of this fiscal year, USPS in presidential election years, from 7.8 ballots to every voter. reported. percent in 1996 to 20.9 percent in 2016. NALC supports efforts to broaden This year, concerns about the risks access to voting by mail. Several state LETTER CARRIERS of in-person voting have led many associations and branches have suc- TAKE THE PULSE states to broaden their access to voting cessfully advocated for voting by mail OF THE MAIL through the mail. Some simply elimi- in their states. NALC also participates Most of these facts and figures about nated restrictions on absentee voting in the efforts of the National Vote at this year’s mail trends don’t surprise by request of the voter; others will mail Home Institute and Coalition, a group letter carriers who see the changes up ballots to all voters without waiting for advocating for vote-by-mail in every close. a request. state. (For more information, see the Maine’s Seitz says that the surge in Voting by mail has broad public May issue of The Postal Record.) parcels is requiring some carriers to go support—in a Pew Research Center This year also is a census year. out on their routes three or four times survey in April, seven in 10 adults said While the U.S. Census Bureau, to keep up. And small parcels and that anyone who wants to vote by mail charged with counting everyone in rolls (SPRs), items under 2 pounds and should be allowed to do so. To date, the United States every 10 years, now smaller than a shoebox, seem to be states have opened up their election encourages respondents to fill out their leading the pack. procedures to the point that at least census forms on its website, the agen- Despite their small size, SPRs are an- 77 percent of the nation—181 million cy started the census process with a other kind of burden because they are voters in 41 states—will have access to mailing to almost every household this cased like flats. “They take longer to voting by mail this fall without being spring. The mailing gave recipients case,” Seitz said, because of their size. required to state a specific reason, ac- the option of sending their response In his 20 years of carrying mail in cording to a Washington Post analysis. by mail. Those census-driven mailings Wisconsin, Van Egeren has watched parcel volume grow and flats shrink Election ballots will be part of the steadily. When he started, he typi- mail mix in greater numbers than cally handled one or two small bags ever before. of parcels, not entire truckloads. This year, along with a larger surge in par- cel volume, he has noticed that more postal patrons are sending packages in addition to receiving them. “I get more carrier pickups—from businesses and homes—on my route, especially during the pandemic,” Van Egeren said. “People are reluctant to go to the post office,” due to fear of the virus. EFFECTS OF THE PANDEMIC ON THE SERVICE On Aug. 7, the Postal Service’s financial report for the third quarter of Fiscal Year 2020, covering April, May

18 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Residents are expressing their gratitude for the essential work letter carriers are doing.

and June, showed an extraordinary health of the Postal Service, an idea increase of 49.9 percent in package that enjoys strong public support. volume compared to the same three months in 2019—a jump from 1.4 bil- LETTER CARRIER lion packages to 2.1 billion. In practical VALOR terms, this means that letter carriers None of this—the surge in package delivered an additional 708 million deliveries, the election-related mail- packages in that period—or several ings, the distribution of government dozen extra packages for each carrier checks and safety guidelines, the cen- per day. sus correspondence, customer reliance who have worked hard and with great “It’s Christmas every day,” Beckley on USPS to deliver essential supplies dedication to provide all of us with said. “The flats are light, but the par- such as food and medications, the uninterrupted mail services for more cels are ridiculous.” sheltering at home—would be possible than 240 years. It is time now for us to As USPS stated in a press release without the hard work, bravery and return the countless favors of service about the quarterly report, “(T)he skill of letter carriers throughout the you have provided.” Postal Service anticipates that these country. “It is difficult for the esteem in which trends will continue given the surge in In one of the pandemic’s ultimate the public holds letter carriers to rise, e-commerce as many Americans stay ironies, a federal agency enshrined in because it already is so high. And yet, home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. the Constitution because the Founding this is exactly what is happening,” The Postal Service has and will con- Fathers envisioned, accurately, that it NALC President Fredric Rolando said. tinue to serve its customers during this would unite this vast land by connect- That is reflected in the polls, in the crisis through the delivery of medicine, ing communities to one another while homemade signs posted in so many essential consumer staples, benefits serving as a unifying force within communities, in the editorials and checks, and important information, communities, now is adding a new but does not expect its package rev- mission—protecting Americans by al- articles in so many newspapers and enue growth over the medium to long lowing them, temporarily, to distance other news outlets. term to make up for its losses in mail and separate themselves from one “As president of the National As- service revenue caused by COVID-19.” another. Letter carriers are leading that sociation of Letter Carriers, I thought Over the same three-month period, effort, one aimed at protecting us now that my own pride in what letter marketing mail plummeted by 36 so we can reunite. carriers accomplish every day could percent and First Class mail fell by 8 Whether they see the letter carrier not increase,” Rolando said. “And yet, percent, with those trends—exacerbat- making the rounds or only the mail as I see the risks, the challenges, the ed by the pandemic-related economic that is left in the mailbox, Americans demands, the rise in packages and so shutdown—taking a toll on overall are expressing their gratitude by much more, I am deeply impressed— postal finances. leaving messages in sidewalk chalk, though not at all surprised—by how The decline in First-Class and mar- on poster board, by social media or letter carriers are responding.” keting mail is a reminder that the Post- in letters to the editor of their local From individual residents to com- al Service is sensitive to economic ups newspaper. (See the April and May mentators to public officials, the and downs and that, since it normally issues of The Postal Record for more praises of letter carriers are being sung is self-supporting and does not receive on this.) Meanwhile, ordinary citizens far and wide. taxpayer funds, it should get relief are reaching out to NALC to ask how “More than ever,” President Rolando from Congress like other businesses they can help. For example, on Aug. continued, “letter carriers are heroes, have. NALC and its sister postal unions 11 a resident of Hawaii called and, in a they are being recognized as such, and and their members are working hard follow-up email, wrote, “I am writing their heroism will long be remembered to secure an emergency appropriation to express my support for the NALC by thankful customers and by a grate- from Congress to assure the financial and the USPS. We appreciate all those ful nation.” PR

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 19 News

Looking the part: The letter carrier uniform ntil 1955, carriers had to cover overseen for NALC by Director of Life uniform allowance until 90 workdays the cost of their uniforms from Insurance James “Jim” Yates. or 120 calendar days of employment Utheir own pockets. That year, The National Agreement between have been completed, whichever the U.S. Post Office Department finally NALC and the Postal Service that was comes first. When a CCA qualifies for provided a uniform allowance ($100 at finalized by an arbitration panel in their first uniform allowance, that the time) so that carriers would look 2013 granted CCAs the same uniform date becomes their uniform allowance their best while doing their jobs. allowance as career carriers. Previously, anniversary date: the date each year Letter carriers have worn uniforms transitional employees (TEs), the job they will receive their new allowance. to identify themselves and show category replaced by city carrier assis- USPS provides the allowance to their professionalism since shortly tants (CCAs), had a smaller allowance. CCAs in the form of a letter of authori- after the Civil War. Post offices had NALC negotiated to continue this policy zation, or voucher, that a carrier uses begun offering free home delivery in the current agreement, which was to buy uniform items. The voucher is of mail to bypass long lines at post ratified in August of 2017. The allow- valid only for purchases from vendors offices—lines that had grown with ance is currently $464 annually, with licensed by USPS. A list of all autho- family members eager for news from an additional, one-time credit of $107 rized Postal Service uniform vendors soldiers at war. Congress also wanted when a CCA converts to career status. is located on the Labor Relations web- to give uniform manufacturers a new Shopping for and buying the site—see the Uniform Program from line of business after the war ended uniform items needed for all types of the Blue Page or LiteBlue under My and demand for military uniforms weather can take time and sometimes HR, and look for the link for Uniform dropped. exceed the allowance, especially for Program. However, letter carriers were carriers in extreme climate areas. CCAs can carry over unspent money required to pay for the full cost of the “As new carriers quickly learn, a from the allowance into their next uniform. This was a risky investment, letter carrier must have many uniform appointment, though they cannot use because postal workers had no job items,” Yates said. “You have to have it during the five-day break in service. security and were routinely fired after something to wear to work while However, any of the money that went a presidential election so that the po- other items are in the laundry. You unspent when you reach your next litical friends of a new administration will need rain gear and perhaps heavy anniversary date is forfeited. could take their jobs. When Postmaster winter clothes and accessories. And Management is to provide the letter General Arthur A. Summerfield de- good footwear is essential. The cost of authorization within 14 days of a CCA creed in 1955 that letter carriers should can add up.” becoming eligible for a uniform allow- look more professional, he initiated To help CCAs get started before they ance. Any CCA who does not receive a the $100 annual uniform allowance. qualify for the allowance and have letter of authorization within that pe- The uniforms had to include labels time to shop, many branches offer riod should contact his or her steward. certifying that the garment met postal a uniform exchange that gives CCAs When CCAs are converted to career, specifications. access to gently used and unwanted their uniform anniversary date re- In 1971, when NALC gained collec- uniform items from veteran and retired mains the same. A significant change tive-bargaining rights to represent carriers. This is another way the union to the uniform-purchasing process letter carriers, uniforms became a helps new members start on the right when becoming a career employee subject of negotiations. Thanks to foot and also makes the uniform al- is that you are issued a preloaded agreements negotiated with USPS by lowance go a little further. If you need debit card. This card is automatically the union, carriers now have a larger additional help completing your full loaded with your allowance and may uniform allowance as well as a say in set of uniform items, check with your be used to purchase uniforms from the official uniform items available branch to see if hand-me-down pieces licensed vendors. And remember, to them for purchase, and the allow- are available. you receive additional credit to your ance increases with each year of the A new CCA in his or her first ap- uniform allowance for your first allot- agreement. The uniform program is pointment does not qualify for the ment as a career employee.

20 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 For more information, consult the fabrics for polo shirts and NALC Letter Carrier Resource Guide at cargo pants. Letter carriers nalc.org/resourceguide or through the have expressed an interest NALC Member App. To order a printed in both of these items for version, log on to the Members Only some time. section of the NALC website, click on Keeping up with clothing the checkbox below the image of the technology is about more guide, and a copy will be mailed to than looking and feeling your NALC address of record. good; uniforms also are a “Our uniforms are so important safety issue. They help pro- to how we do our jobs and how the tect carriers from the many public perceives us,” Yates said. “They hazards of their jobs, in- also protect us from sun, wind, rain, cluding heat, sun and cold, snow and cold. Use your allowance as well as foot injuries. wisely. Check out what other carriers Details matter in uniform are wearing, and ask experienced design. Take shorts, for certain fabric used in a garment is dis- carriers what you may need as the example: Will they come in enough continued by suppliers or is no longer sizes to fit any carrier? Do they have seasons change.” made in the United States, the commit- enough pockets of the right size and In addition to providing a uniform tee must decide what to do, including shape? Will they remain comfortable allowance, the National Agreement considering options such as discontin- through a day’s work, while keeping gives NALC a voice in the uniform uing the item or finding an alternative. the carrier looking neat and profes- items we can buy with the allowance, USPS requires that U.S.-made items be sional? Will they last long enough to by establishing a joint uniform com- used whenever they are available. justify their cost? mittee composed of NALC and USPS Resolutions are another way Even color and fabric style involve representatives. Yates heads the com- that letter carriers have a voice on functionality. Dark clothes attract uniform issues. Over the years, mittee for the NALC. the sun’s heat. Some fabrics protect NALC national conventions have Through the committee, USPS and against harmful ultraviolet (UV) adopted many resolutions related to NALC may agree to any changes or ad- sunlight; others offer little protection. uniforms, calling for things like ap- ditions to the uniform program. The Some colors and styles, such as solid proval of new fabrics and the cargo committee considers many factors versus striped patterns, hide stains or in uniform design, because a uni- sweat better than do others. pants mentioned above, additional form works much harder than casual The uniform committee takes time cold-weather gear and sun-protective clothes. A letter carrier’s uniform to get it right, because any mistakes in clothing to approving shoes that use needs to be tough enough to survive fit or design would affect thousands of Velcro instead of laces. the wear-and-tear from the route and letter carriers. Any letter carrier can propose a frequent laundering. Uniform items When an item is adopted by the resolution to his or her branch. If the using modern fabrics can’t sacrifice uniform committee, USPS publishes branch adopts it and sends it to the appearance for comfort. And, it all its specifications for the approximately NALC Executive Council, the delegates has to fit into a carrier’s uniform allot- 200 vendors that the Postal Service li- at the next national convention will ment, which can run out quickly. censes to supply uniforms. USPS adds vote on it. The uniform committee meets at the item to the list of approved items “Our uniforms matter. They protect least once every three months and has in the Employee and Labor Relations us from the elements, keep us com- jurisdiction to consider all non-cost Manual (ELM). And, of course, vendors fortable and project our image,” Yates matters pertaining to the uniform pro- add it to their catalogues and websites. said. “NALC will always work to im- gram. Currently, the uniform commit- The committee also deals with issues prove them so that letter carriers can tee is exploring new, moisture-wicking like changes in fabric availability. If a look and feel their best every day.” PR

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 21 Branch Items

Albany, New York rescheduling most of the canceled/postponed Camden, New Jersey Merged branch events we have had to act on due to the ongratulations to Branch 29 gold card re- Coronavirus epidemic. We all need to support a see my brothers and sisters on the work floor cipients Charlie Brooks, Pat Clancy, Vince every day. We are all different. We are all the C bailout for the USPS by contacting our senators I Commisso, Charlie Finnegan, John Graves, Bill same. What makes us different? Is it just the Matthews, Ron Meilinger and Bob Yaiser. Con- and representatives on supporting these bills. color of our skin? I would like to think it is who gratulations to Russ Brown on his 55 years as a Congratulations to the nine CCAs who were we are inside as individuals that truly makes us union member. converted to career in June; 30 months is too different. If you look at me, you may see a white Congratulations to our newest career letter long to be waiting for this step. man. You may see someone with olive skin. Am carriers in Branch 29, Etaseme Elonge and Eliza- Additional congratulations go out to our re- I the same as the white man standing next to beth Sinchi. They converted on June 6. cent retirees: Fred Casey, Paul Medeiros, Gene me? Am I the same as the Middle Eastern guy Congratulations to Lou Ferraiola on his retire- Bragdon, Richard Kielczweski, Dave Lopaus, across the street? Maybe I’m different than both ment from the Postal Service. We wish you a Steve Burke, Jimmy Aylward, Frank Bradley, of them. Maybe I’m not like anyone else in the long and healthy retirement. Richard Scott, Michael Kelly, Paul Senior, Mark world. Maybe I’m just like you. The branch honored Clark Henry by having a Walkins and Mark Catinella. I haven’t counted, so I can’t give you any brick engraved at Patriot’s Way to honor Clark’s Our sincere condolences to the families numbers or percentages about the diversity service in the Navy. Clark served aboard the of Robert ‘‘Blue” Rooney, James Courtney, of our branch’s membership. I can tell you we U.S.S. Wasp. Pasquale A. Rosati, Dick Perry and Robert have people from almost every walk of life, and I know it’s true of the entire membership of the Jay Jackson, Branch 29 Coughlin. Rest in peace, brothers. There is a NALC. I’m proud to be part of this organization, The voices of the branches light at the end of the tunnel and we are get- this family. We all work and strive for the same Anchorage, Alaska ting there. things for ourselves and our families. A good e recently had a grievance appealed to Jerry McCarthy, Branch 34 job with a living wage and benefits. An opportu- WStep B that was something we hadn’t seen nity to live out our lives with dignity. We are all before. Management was attempting to collect different. We are all the same. money from a carrier that they never had in the Brick Town, New Jersey I can’t believe, in this day and age, I feel the first place. Management wanted the carrier to OVID-19 has presented very difficult situa- need to write an article about this. Don’t wake pay for the employer share of taxes sent to the Ctions throughout our nation. My heart goes up tomorrow on the wrong side of this issue. IRS on a postal debt that hadn’t been shown out to everyone who has suffered from it and to It’s not too late to say, “Maybe I need to look at How scribes are representing their communities the carrier owed money. The steward did an all who have lost a loved one because of it…es- this from a different perspective. Maybe I don’t excellent job in putting the case together. The pecially to those in our postal family. know what it’s like to be black in America. May- NBA and National Officers said that they felt the Your local union officials have been working be, just maybe, I was taught wrong.” All lives cannot matter until you include black issue was an interpretive issue. The NBA con- tirelessly to ensure the safety and health of our lives. We are all different. We are all the same. tacted the NALC Step B member and advised members, all while continuing to fight for your him to settle the appeal if possible; otherwise, contractual rights. Our executive board has con- Chuck Goushian, Branch 540 uring this pandemic, it has be- He likes to highlight retirees because Leslie Hammett has written for two impasse the case because NALC believed the is- sue to be interpretive. tinued to meet via telecoms, phone calls and Well, you can imagine our surprise when we text messages regarding the pandemic, staffing Carmel, Indiana received the decision denied from the Step B issues, etc. ere we go again, Batman! The consolidated come both more important and of the wisdom and authority they can branches in her 33 years as a letter Team. Yes, that’s right, the NALC B Team mem- Fred Rolando and all of the NALC Executive Hcasing disaster appears to be coming to an ber denied the grievance even after being told Council have been fighting for us on so many end, with all sites going back to their old setup by the NBA that National wanted the case im- fronts. Our NBA, Dave Napadano, has been a and no further expansion. My question is this: passed as interpretive if it couldn’t be settled. continual source of help. I cannot imagine the What is the name of the stable genius at USPS more difficult for branches and bring to a column. “They are really the carrier—Fort Worth, TX Branch 226, The NALC Step B member went against the di- current pandemic situation without such great Headquarters who is getting the billion-dollar rection of the NBA and National. Why this Step B national leadership. letter of demand for all the money that was D Team member hasn’t been fired yet is puzzling. With the relaxation of restricted activities in squandered during this pandemic of a test? state associations to stay connected to core of a branch,” he explained. “They and her current branch, Las Vegas, NV Our branch has been asking to be removed our state, we are hopeful to resume our general We all know the fat cats at USPS Headquarters from the Northland Step B Team for years be- membership meetings in September. We will dictated this policy, and I believe this was the cause of its very weak and poor decisions. But keep you posted and look forward to seeing ev- brainchild of a single person sitting in a cubicle it has to be a mutual decision, and manage- eryone again. on the third floor of their air-conditioned office, ment won’t agree. Why would they when they their members. Fortunately, The Postal are speaking from experience.” Branch 2502. In her time as a scribe, On another note, although our parcel volume trying to justify their six-figure salary on the are happy that they are not being held account- backs of city letter carriers. Now it’s time to pay is at an all-time high, the Postal Service contin- able? Can you imagine if management stood up up for their disastrous decision with a good ol’ on the workroom floor and praised how great ues to pay record overtime and penalty overtime letter of demand! Record already has a platform for in- The scribe says that he is always she says, she never has been “at a your steward was in his grievance settlements? to make up for the many employees out of work Consolidated casing will go down in history Let there be no mistake about it, the Northland due to the pandemic and school closings. This, with the infamous decision to buy all those fan- Step B Team is the worst we have ever had de- coupled with the exorbitant cost of providing cy expensive flat-sorting machines right at the cide cases for this branch and management personal protective equipment (PPE) and clean- very time flat volume was dropping like a rock. I dividual branches to report local news pleased to hear from members about loss for subjects” to write about. “I loves them. That’s not a legacy any union advo- ing supplies, is directly hurting our bottom line. am beginning to think people are trying to find cate wants pinned on them. It is imperative that we get assistance in the ways to cause the Postal Service to lose money. Jim Raymond, Branch 4319 next stimulus bill. Please continue to knock on The Postal Service should refuse to try any ini- his column. “They’ll come up to me and just need to listen to the letter carri- our representatives’ doors on Capitol Hill daily, tiative unless NALC and letter carriers who do and address topics specific to their com- expressing our need to them. The easiest way to the work are involved in a joint process. Boston, do this is through the NALC Member App. When The next thing I would do is quarantine this ith the state loosening restrictions due to you get a push alert, please “Take Action.” It lit- illustrious individual for the remainder of his/ they’ll say, ‘Good column,’ or they’ll ers around me,” she said. “They are a WCOVID-19, we recently had our first branch erally takes seconds to do so. her career and have them count rubber bands munities. Every month, this magazine meeting since March. Masks were worn and and stack them in piles of 100 each day for Lastly, please do not let your guard down the hall was set up for social distancing. The their entire six-hour workday. The Postal Service “new” normal will take some getting used to. with regard to the pandemic. Please continue would save money in the long run because said receives dozens of submissions from give me ideas,” he said. Occasionally, never-ending source of inspiration.” Consolidated casing is being phased out and I, to take every precaution. I wish everyone a safe individual wouldn’t be able to come up with any for one, am breathing easier on that one. After and happy summer. more downright terrible ideas for the remainder the next phase of reopening, we will reevaluate Philip W. Cornell, Branch 5420 of their career. The Postal Service likes to create

branch, state and retiree scribes all over Rodriguez even receives recognition Hammett adds that she is constantly 46 The Postal Record July 2020 July 2020 the country, who send in articles on from the wider NALC community. thinking about her article throughout subjects ranging from describing work- “I’ll run into people at the [national] the month, “but when I actually sit ing conditions and voicing perspectives convention, and they’ll say, ‘Are you the down to write, it takes on a life of its on new legislative proposals to congrat- guy from Tennessee? Great article!’ ” own,” she said. “Scribe articles bind ulating retiring members and reporting JoAnn Gilbaugh also has received all of the union members together.” on community services. plenty of feedback in her 10-year ten- The branch scribe for Southeast These scribes are a valuable resource ure as branch scribe for Minneapolis, Pennsylvania Merged Branch 725, for NALC, as they inform members MN Branch 9. “At first, I didn’t think Eric Jackson, has been representing using their own experience and local anyone read them,” she admitted, so his branch in the pages of The Postal knowledge. We spoke to a sample of she was surprised when she attended Record since 2009. “I try to be topi- scribes to get their opinions and advice a retirement celebration and one of the cal—and as direct as I am in real life,” on their often overlooked but critical retirees shook her hand and quoted he said. When he started writing the role in the union. For more information one of her recent columns. “Getting the Branch Item, he also was writing daily on how to become a scribe, see “How feedback is amazing,” she said. posts on the branch’s website, so he to become a scribe” on the next page Unlike Rodriguez, Gilbaugh says that learned quickly how to find writing and consult with your local officers. she doesn’t like to write drafts—“the inspiration. In fact, the most difficult Tony Rodriguez has been the majority of the time, [the column] is part for Jackson is the 300-word limit. branch scribe for Knoxville, TN Branch something I can do in one fell swoop,” “My columns are usually 300 words on 419 for eight years, and has continued she said. For her ideas, she waits for the dot,” he said with a laugh. to fulfill the scribe role alongside his something to “strike a chord” with her. Jackson says that he views his duties as branch secretary. Rodriguez She added with a laugh, “A lot of the column as small articles embedded says that his writing process can be topics come from conversations I have in the magazine that give him the op- quite time-consuming. “I learned from with people, where they’ll say some- portunity to communicate with many college to do a draft and then come thing and I’ll say, ‘I’m going to [use] members, even those who cannot back later and see how it reads,” he that.’ ” attend branch meetings. “I’ve gotten said. “I can do two to three drafts be- Gilbaugh says that the most diffi- so much positive feedback,” he added. fore I send it to the [branch] president cult time to write is when there hasn’t “[Members] will come up and tell me, to review.” However, he added, the been much happening at the branch, ‘As soon as I get The Postal Record, I actual time spent writing the article is adding, “I’m not good at forcing turn to your article.’ ” The feedback much shorter: “Once I get into the flow something onto a piece of paper.” But “lets [me] know that what [I’m] doing of it, I can bang it out in 10 minutes.” her favorite part about writing? “I get is important,” he said. Rodriguez says that one of the most to talk about things that are important Scott Van Derven is the president challenging aspects of being the scribe to me,” she said. “Things that maybe and state scribe for the Wisconsin is finding ideas every month. To do aren’t being spotlighted elsewhere. State Association; he has served in the so, he taps his best resources: his fel- “I really enjoy the ability to remind position since his election to the presi- low officers and the branch members people that we are a union,” Gilbaugh dency in 2010. As state scribe, his goals (particularly retirees). “Sometimes, I’ll continued, “and give examples of how are slightly different than those of the use the branch meeting itself,” he said. we are stronger together.” branch scribes. “I am generally writing

22 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Branch Items

Albany, New York rescheduling most of the canceled/postponed Camden, New Jersey Merged jobs, and this one could be called “senior rub- pandemic right from the start. We need to step Emerald Coast, Florida branch events we have had to act on due to the ber band quality control specialist.” up and stop a downward spiral of a country ongratulations to Branch 29 gold card re- Coronavirus epidemic. We all need to support a see my brothers and sisters on the work floor Knowledge is power! that should be leading the way—not taking the n many occasions, the officers and stew- cipients Charlie Brooks, Pat Clancy, Vince every day. We are all different. We are all the ards have attempted to advise the carriers C bailout for the USPS by contacting our senators I Ronnie Roush, Branch 888 shame. O Commisso, Charlie Finnegan, John Graves, Bill same. What makes us different? Is it just the in the branch of their rights and the protections and representatives on supporting these bills. Letter carriers have a lot on the line. Because Matthews, Ron Meilinger and Bob Yaiser. Con- color of our skin? I would like to think it is who they have under federal law. One of these pro- Congratulations to the nine CCAs who were careers, health and safety really do matter, take gratulations to Russ Brown on his 55 years as a we are inside as individuals that truly makes us Cincinnati, Ohio precautions! Wear your masks, “socially dis- tections is the Family and Medical Leave Act union member. converted to career in June; 30 months is too different. If you look at me, you may see a white (FMLA). This law protects you and your family reetings from Branch 43. The goodwill man- Congratulations to our newest career letter long to be waiting for this step. man. You may see someone with olive skin. Am in case of absences due to a medical condition agement showed at the onset of the coro- carriers in Branch 29, Etaseme Elonge and Eliza- Additional congratulations go out to our re- I the same as the white man standing next to G that you or a family member may have, causing navirus dissipated at a speed not seen until beth Sinchi. They converted on June 6. cent retirees: Fred Casey, Paul Medeiros, Gene me? Am I the same as the Middle Eastern guy you to be absent from work due to this condition the Falcon 9 rocket launched into orbit. The Congratulations to Lou Ferraiola on his retire- Bragdon, Richard Kielczweski, Dave Lopaus, across the street? Maybe I’m different than both or conditions. This information has been shared ment from the Postal Service. We wish you a Steve Burke, Jimmy Aylward, Frank Bradley, of them. Maybe I’m not like anyone else in the increase in parcel volume has not dissuaded management from hefting out-of-this-world piv- during our monthly meetings and during office long and healthy retirement. Richard Scott, Michael Kelly, Paul Senior, Mark world. Maybe I’m just like you. ot assignments, and as the mercury continues stand-ups. The branch honored Clark Henry by having a Walkins and Mark Catinella. I haven’t counted, so I can’t give you any It appears that the information that is being brick engraved at Patriot’s Way to honor Clark’s numbers or percentages about the diversity to rise, bringing with it the humidity that Cincin- Our sincere condolences to the families natians loathe, management continues to offer shared is going unheeded. There has been an service in the Navy. Clark served aboard the of Robert ‘‘Blue” Rooney, James Courtney, of our branch’s membership. I can tell you we increase of fact findings concerning unsched- U.S.S. Wasp. have people from almost every walk of life, and no solace. Pasquale A. Rosati, Dick Perry and Robert Our scanners give daily prompts about what uled absences. One of the first questions man- Jay Jackson, Branch 29 I know it’s true of the entire membership of the Coughlin. Rest in peace, brothers. There is a to do in the heat and humidity, but those pivots agement is asking is, “Do you have FMLA pro- NALC. I’m proud to be part of this organization, tections?” and the majority of the answers are light at the end of the tunnel and we are get- this family. We all work and strive for the same persist as nationally we are told to be safe, but ting there. locally that sentimentality isn’t shared because “No.” During the investigation, it is discovered Anchorage, Alaska things for ourselves and our families. A good that there is a condition that involves the carrier Jerry McCarthy, Branch 34 job with a living wage and benefits. An opportu- if we fail to meet these outrageous expecta- Portland, OR Br. 82 member Bob DiNovo e recently had a grievance appealed to (l) received a gold card from Branch Presi- or a family member. Had they followed the sug- Step B that was something we hadn’t seen nity to live out our lives with dignity. We are all tions, we are met with hostile snide comments W from evening supervisors who carried mail long dent David Norton (r). gestions of the officers of the branch, we would before. Management was attempting to collect different. We are all the same. not be in the conference room explaining their Brick Town, New Jersey I can’t believe, in this day and age, I feel the enough to never turn the toes of their postal money from a carrier that they never had in the tance” and register to vote. absence. need to write an article about this. Don’t wake shoes white. first place. Management wanted the carrier to OVID-19 has presented very difficult situa- So here’s to us! “Essential workers,” across NALC has generated a form that is accepted pay for the employer share of taxes sent to the tions throughout our nation. My heart goes up tomorrow on the wrong side of this issue. Branch 43 hasn’t been all complaints and C managerial mishaves, though; we do have good the nation and the world, doing their job. We by the Postal Service that is much simpler to fill IRS on a postal debt that hadn’t been shown out to everyone who has suffered from it and to It’s not too late to say, “Maybe I need to look at news to share. Kyle West, a carrier out of our will all get through this. out than the form provided by the Department the carrier owed money. The steward did an all who have lost a loved one because of it…es- this from a different perspective. Maybe I don’t of Labor. It is strongly suggested that if you have know what it’s like to be black in America. May- Groesbeck office, was recently honored at the Bob Murphy, Branch 40 excellent job in putting the case together. The pecially to those in our postal family. a condition that you feel will qualify you for be, just maybe, I was taught wrong.” White House for his willingness to go above and NBA and National Officers said that they felt the Your local union officials have been working FMLA, then you should submit this form for your All lives cannot matter until you include black beyond the call of duty as a letter carrier. He per- issue was an interpretive issue. The NBA con- tirelessly to ensure the safety and health of our protection. Management has started to take a lives. We are all different. We are all the same. sonally asked his customers if they needed any East Lansing, Michigan tacted the NALC Step B member and advised members, all while continuing to fight for your hard line on the unscheduled absences and has him to settle the appeal if possible; otherwise, essential supplies and ensured those supplies ow, it’s certainly been an interesting contractual rights. Our executive board has con- Chuck Goushian, Branch 540 begun to issue discipline. Taking a few minutes impasse the case because NALC believed the is- were delivered. Kyle is a man at 23 who we all Wspring. First it was COVID-19, then we tinued to meet via telecoms, phone calls and should strive to be and embodies the dedica- had floods and now it’s police violence. I kind to have your doctor complete the form will save sue to be interpretive. you from a lot of headaches and unnecessary Well, you can imagine our surprise when we text messages regarding the pandemic, staffing Carmel, Indiana tion and integrity we as letter carriers diligently of dread to see what summer will bring. But through it all, the mail gets delivered. problems. The law is there to protect you, so received the decision denied from the Step B issues, etc. ere we go again, Batman! The consolidated preform. Kyle, you are a hero. The 30-something woman with the two kids please use it. Team. Yes, that’s right, the NALC B Team mem- Fred Rolando and all of the NALC Executive casing disaster appears to be coming to an Jacob Bingham, Branch 43 H in the checkout line ahead of us was explain- ber denied the grievance even after being told Council have been fighting for us on so many end, with all sites going back to their old setup Percy Smith Jr., Branch 4559 by the NBA that National wanted the case im- fronts. Our NBA, Dave Napadano, has been a and no further expansion. My question is this: ing to her friend why neither she nor her two Cleveland, Ohio hellions were wearing masks. Yes, “hellions.” passed as interpretive if it couldn’t be settled. continual source of help. I cannot imagine the What is the name of the stable genius at USPS Fargo-West Fargo, North Dakota The NALC Step B member went against the di- current pandemic situation without such great Headquarters who is getting the billion-dollar etter arriers, through the years, have faced I’ve discovered recently that I’m nowhere near rection of the NBA and National. Why this Step B national leadership. letter of demand for all the money that was Land survived many challenges. Our chal- as forgiving and more judgmental than I was, ur job is quickly evolving. Letters and flats say, three or four years ago. A character flaw de- on some days are ridiculously light, and Team member hasn’t been fired yet is puzzling. With the relaxation of restricted activities in squandered during this pandemic of a test? lenge now is to support our NALC leadership in O veloped recently. But there the little monsters packages are beyond the levels we normally Our branch has been asking to be removed our state, we are hopeful to resume our general We all know the fat cats at USPS Headquarters saving our careers and the Postal Service that were, running in the aisles shouting, touching see in December. With the increased level of from the Northland Step B Team for years be- membership meetings in September. We will dictated this policy, and I believe this was the provides those jobs. cause of its very weak and poor decisions. But everything, unrestrained by any leash. One of packages, please remember to treat them with keep you posted and look forward to seeing ev- brainchild of a single person sitting in a cubicle Be certain, the current White House admin- it has to be a mutual decision, and manage- istration is not in favor of saving the USPS. So each kind and the little girl was coughing on care. Leave a notice if there is not a safe loca- eryone again. on the third floor of their air-conditioned office, ment won’t agree. Why would they when they with COVID-19 still on our heels, this is our next everything. Used to have one of those myself, tion to leave it. Do not leave a package outside a On another note, although our parcel volume trying to justify their six-figure salary on the are happy that they are not being held account- backs of city letter carriers. Now it’s time to pay issue. The answer to fixing this problem is to and she turned out fine, despite having an old closed business. If rain is in the forecast, leave is at an all-time high, the Postal Service contin- able? Can you imagine if management stood up up for their disastrous decision with a good ol’ vote. Vote for your career! grump like me for a parent. But now their par- it where it can be protected and not at the edge on the workroom floor and praised how great ues to pay record overtime and penalty overtime letter of demand! Letter carriers are the link to patrons, the ent was saying, “Naw, kids don’t catch it. It’s all of the steps out in the open. Slow down and use your steward was in his grievance settlements? to make up for the many employees out of work Consolidated casing will go down in history public, neighbors, friends and family. Branch overblown by the media, it’s just a kind of flu common sense when considering the quality of Let there be no mistake about it, the Northland due to the pandemic and school closings. This, with the infamous decision to buy all those fan- 40 is proud to help represent those traditions anyway and they say it’ll be gone soon.” (This your service. Management may be pushing you Step B Team is the worst we have ever had de- coupled with the exorbitant cost of providing cy expensive flat-sorting machines right at the through member Tish Seymour-Wells, who was was in April). Her friend, also maskless, added, to speed up your pace, but you still need to take cide cases for this branch and management personal protective equipment (PPE) and clean- very time flat volume was dropping like a rock. I selected to be in the Postal Record article “A day “What did they want to cancel school for? It’s care of what you have been entrusted with. loves them. That’s not a legacy any union advo- ing supplies, is directly hurting our bottom line. am beginning to think people are trying to find in the life.” If you have not finished your June is- ridiculous, and you can’t tell me this isn’t just We have been able to resume our monthly cate wants pinned on them. It is imperative that we get assistance in the ways to cause the Postal Service to lose money. sue, go back and read this article. It is amazing another excuse for the media to go after Presi- meetings at the Biltmore in the larger meeting Jim Raymond, Branch 4319 next stimulus bill. Please continue to knock on The Postal Service should refuse to try any ini- how these carriers have taken the challenge of dent Trump!” (I hear this kind of thing a lot living room, where we can space out. our representatives’ doors on Capitol Hill daily, tiative unless NALC and letter carriers who do COVID-19 and how it helped shaped our lives. as I do in the heart of Trumplandia.) It is with great disappointment to announce After they left, the weary cashier rolled his expressing our need to them. The easiest way to the work are involved in a joint process. Tish is a true hero who, along with the others, that our annual picnic has been canceled this Boston, Massachusetts eyes and sprayed everything the kids had year. It is always a great time to get together How to The next thing I would do is quarantine this helped to protect and serve our communities as do this is through the NALC Member App. When touched with disinfectant. I was left to think ith the state loosening restrictions due to you get a push alert, please “Take Action.” It lit- illustrious individual for the remainder of his/ letter carriers. with co-workers and retirees, and it will be about respect and personal responsibility; ob- missed this year. WCOVID-19, we recently had our first branch erally takes seconds to do so. her career and have them count rubber bands Change and challenge usually go hand in meeting since March. Masks were worn and and stack them in piles of 100 each day for hand. It helps us to accept these two things viously that woman had none of that for me or To give an update from an article I wrote last Lastly, please do not let your guard down the hall was set up for social distancing. The their entire six-hour workday. The Postal Service when we are part of the final decision. Com- the rest of the customers, and certainly none May: After a year of waiting, former casual carri- “new” normal will take some getting used to. with regard to the pandemic. Please continue would save money in the long run because said promise is part of the change and it is time to for that poor checkout guy. She knew what she er Chelsey Smedsrud, daughter of longtime car- Consolidated casing is being phased out and I, to take every precaution. I wish everyone a safe individual wouldn’t be able to come up with any examine compromise and take that challenge. knew, and believed and acted accordingly. rier Lon, has received a lung transplant. Chelsey and happy summer. become for one, am breathing easier on that one. After more downright terrible ideas for the remainder COVID-19 has affected everyone’s lives. Don- Don’t know if I can survive until November. is a month into her recovery in Jacksonville, the next phase of reopening, we will reevaluate Philip W. Cornell, Branch 5420 of their career. The Postal Service likes to create ald Trump has misjudged and misguided this Mark Woodbury, Branch 2555 FL. Please keep the Smedsrud family in your 46 The Postal Record JulyJuly 2020 2020 JulyJuly 2020 2020 The Postal Record 47 a scribe about topics in the political arena, and speaking for our members.” Members can become scribes because that is the focus of the state When asked whether they had any through a variety of paths. Most [associations],” he said. He also has to advice to give to members who wanted branch scribes are appointed to take a broader viewpoint than do the to become scribes, the lessons cited their positions by the president of local branches. “I really look at [the by the scribes were as diverse as their their branch, but some branches article] as being a state summary,” he experiences. Bingham emphasized the hold elections for the scribe posi- said. “I like to tell the story of what’s importance of “getting to know your tion (as with other branch posi- tions). Other branches choose to happening in Wisconsin.” membership, regardless of size—that’s fold the scribe duties into another But the roles of branch and state getting to know the heartbeat of your officer role—usually the branch scribe are more similar than they branch,” he said. “You have to write president or secretary. might at first appear, especially with honestly.” regard to the writing process. Like The state scribes follow a similar Van Derven and Rodriguez both path. Most scribe positions are Jackson, Van Derven says he struggles mentioned the significance of the with the word limit. “Three hundred filled by the state president or writing. “If you’re thirsty, willing to chairperson, but the role may be words is hard for someone as verbose do research and develop your ideas, as I am,” he said, adding, “You have assigned to other officers as well. go for it!” Rodriguez said. Van Derven to be able to self-edit, but still get the To become a retiree scribe, advised, “Be yourself and tell a story— message you want out there.” members must be appointed by members want to read [a] first-person their branch president. Many of the Jacob Bingham is one of the newest perspective.” retiree scribes are former branch branch scribes—he has been writing Jackson and Hammett focused on scribes who now write for the Re- for Cincinnati, OH Branch 43 since the the scribe articles as a communica- tiree Reports section. previous scribe retired in September of To find out how to become a 2019. But even that relatively short pe- tive tool. “You just have to remember, scribe for your branch, talk to your riod on that job has given him insight you’re not writing for yourself, you are local officers, and find out if your into how to best represent and write writing for the union,” Hammett said. branch has any bylaws that pertain for his branch. For his topics, Bingham To that end, Jackson said, “Stick to the to the scribe position. says, he largely plays it by ear, listen- main purpose—to get information out ing to the branch members’ concerns to your branch.”

in person and on social media. Gilbaugh agreed that the scribe’s One of his favorite things to do with main job is communication and con- the platform is to spotlight members nection—between members and their who have retired or done something branch, and all of the branches to each special. “People who have done ex- other. “You have to let them know traordinary things need to be lauded the value of being in a union,” she for what they do,” he said. Bingham said. “There is always a theme for the said that his favorite part of his role branch items—we can get through this was “being the voice for my branch, together.” PR

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 23 Postal pioneers

Postal pioneers

he United States has a rich history of tall tales: stories of the men and women who T helped tame the wilder- Frederick Wolf ness and establish our nation. Think or or —many of these tales are rooted in fact, even as the myths have grown larger and more unbelievable. Letter carriers have their own tall tales of postal pioneers, those letter carriers and others who moved the mail across this wide country, deliver- ing vital news and important materials. These tales remind us that though letter carriers today wear the same uniform and do the same job, they come from a long line of proud individuals who helped bind this nation with the mail. Frederick Wolf In 1794, Congress officially established the Post Office as a permanent part of the federal government and authorized the appointment of this country’s first letter carriers. In those early days of the republic, America’s letter carriers received no salaries but were permitted by Congress to collect a fee of 2 cents for every letter they delivered.

24 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 William Carney

Although 2 cents was a considerable into downtown Troy, where amount of money in those days, this a firestorm proceeded to de- fee did not guarantee letter carriers stroy 670 buildings. Though a decent living wage. Recipients of the fire killed eight people, it letters had the option of accepting de- could have been much worse. livery service or visiting the post office For Wolf, however, it was to pick up their mail. Since delivery a crushing blow. Many of the of one’s mail was a luxury few people buildings that had gone up could afford, most chose to just pick in smoke bore the marks of it up. postage due to him. Since Things weren’t much better as the Wolf had no other record 1800s rolled on. Though mail delivery of the amount owed him, became more affordable, as the 2-cent he never recovered his lost fee remained unchanged, not every- wages. one had 2 cents when the letter carrier came calling. For many, that meant William Carney waiting until the letter carrier came William Harvey Carney around again. was born a slave in 1840 in Frederick W. Wolf, a letter carrier in Norfolk, VA. He was edu- Troy, NY, was hired in 1854 and served cated at a “secret school” by for 54 years. Wolf came up with an a local minister, acquiring Carney was awarded innovative way to deliver the mail and rudimentary reading and the Con- make sure he got paid. When he would writing skills at the age of 14. Carney gressional go to a house where the customer escaped slavery through the Under- Medal of didn’t have 2 cents, he would deliver ground Railroad, a network of secret Honor for the mail and make a mark on the door routes and safe houses, and made his his service or the side of the way to New Bedford in the free state of in the Civil Frederick Wolf War. house. He would Massachusetts. He and his father, an- then go to that other escaped slave, eventually earned house the next enough to buy the rest of the family day to collect. freedom from servitude. It was a system Carney worked the docks in New that worked well Bedford, a major whaling port, until for him until a he heard the call for Blacks to join the hot and windy . In a letter to The Libera- May 10, 1862. tor, an abolitionist newspaper, Carney That afternoon, gave this account of his motivations in some sparks joining the 54th Regiment: “Previous setts Infantry. In the midst of withering from the steam to the formation of the colored troops, fire, when the first flag-bearer fell, -Car engine of a train I had a strong inclination to prepare ney took up the regiment’s colors and pulling out of the myself for the ministry, but when the led his fellow volunteers to the crest of downtown Troy country called for all persons, I could the parapet. There, Carney secured the Union Depot best serve my God serving my country banner in the sand as the battle raged. set the Green and my oppressed brothers. The sequel When the federal troops finally fell Island Bridge is short—I enlisted for the war.” back after dark, Carney wrapped the on fire. Strong Carney participated in the suicidal Stars and Stripes around the pole it winds blew assault on Confederate was carried on and carried the banner burning pieces near Charleston, SC, by the all-Black, back to Union lines, despite wounds of the bridge all-volunteer 54th Regiment Massachu- to his chest, head and leg—the latter

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 25 Postal pioneers

injury so severe that for more than 30 years he would limp every step of the way as he delivered the mail in New Bedford. As he handed the flag over to other survivors of the 54th, he told them, “Boys, I only did my duty. The Mary Fields on her stagecoach old flag never touched the ground.” For courageous action, Carney be- appointment. He was the only Black accepted the post and held the job until came one of the first Black soldiers to carrier in the city and among the earli- his death on Dec. 8, 1908, as the result of be awarded the Congressional Medal est anywhere. Just two years earlier, in an elevator accident. of Honor. 1867, John Curry had become the na- After recovering from his wounds, tion’s first Black letter carrier, working Mary Fields Carney worked a number of jobs before in Washington, DC. Mary Fields was born into slavery becoming a letter carrier in New Bed- Carney carried mail for more than in the 1830s, by most accounts in Ten- ford in 1869. Many early letter carriers 30 years and—just as he had done in nessee, and worked for a slave-owning were military veterans, since appoint- enlisting for the Union cause—the Civil family in West Virginia (then Virginia) ments often were based on local politi- War hero was quick to step forward in the years leading up to the Civil War. cal connections and it was common for when mailmen around the nation de- After she was emancipated following a town’s prominent citizens, including cided to band together in the National the Civil War, Fields left West Virginia the postmaster himself, to have served Association of Letter Carriers. and worked on steamboats on the Mis- in the Union army. The charter of New Bedford Branch sissippi River, eventually making her 18, issued on March 20, 1890, includes There were just four letter carriers way to Toledo, OH, where she went to Carney’s signature as vice president. In in New Bedford at the time of Carney’s work in a convent. addition to the low Fields washed laundry, bought Mary Fields branch number of supplies, managed the kitchen, and 18, the founding date grew and maintained the garden and makes clear that the grounds. But she was no saint, and her New Bedford carriers quick temper was known to boil over. were among the first There are reports of her yelling at any- members of the NALC, one who stepped on the grass after she which had been found- had cut it—intimidating behavior given ed only seven months her 6-foot stature and hefty frame. earlier. She made her way west to Montana, After nearly 32 years where she worked for Saint Peter’s of service, at the age Mission near Cascade, performing of 61, Carney retired maintenance and repair work, gar- as a letter carrier. He dening, laundering and delivering still needed other work supplies needed for the mission. She because, although he was dismissed from the mission for probably received a her crass behavior, unruly temper, and small stipend for his penchant for drinking and smoking war wounds, postal in saloons with men. According to employees had no legend, she and a male mission janitor retirement benefits at got into a fight and both drew guns. all. In 1901, the Mas- After trying many other lines of work, sachusetts secretary of in 1895 and in her early 60s, with the state asked him to take help of the local nuns, Fields obtained the job of messenger at a contract from the Post Office Depart- the state house. Carney ment to be a star route carrier. A star

26 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 in a postal railcar route carrier was an independent was on. When the clerks contractor who used a stagecoach to returned to the main post deliver the mail in the harsh weather office after the deliver- of northern Montana. Fields was the ies, not only was a bag first African American woman and the of mail missing, so was second woman to receive a star route Owney. They backtracked contract anywhere in the country. and eventually found Fields, soon nicknamed “Stagecoach Owney lying on top of the Mary” for her reputation of being fear- mailbag. He guarded the less, not only had to deliver the mail until some- but also had to protect it from bandits, one from the Post Office After his death, the weather and even wildlife. She showed up to retrieve it. Owney was preserved and is was known to carry both a rifle and a Reports had him now on display at revolver. Despite her temperament, she traveling to Boston; New the Smithsonian’s also was known for her generosity and York City; Buffalo, NY; National Postal kindness to children. Cleveland; Toledo, OH; Museum. After eight years, she retired and Chicago and even into started a laundry business, an eatery Canada. After a lengthy and looked after local children. She trip in Canada, the postal remained famous, even becoming the clerks at Albany became mascot for the town’s baseball team. concerned that Owney She was so beloved that she drank and might not return, so they ate for free in Cascade saloons and bought a dog collar with restaurants. a metal tag that read: Mary Fields died on Dec. 5, 1914. Af- “Owney, Post Office, Alba- ter her death, the townspeople raised ny, New York.” As Owney money to have her buried in a cem- made his trips, various etery on a road she drove frequently railway post offices added that linked Cascade to the mission. individual dog tags. Mary’s funeral was said to have been He got so many tags among the town’s largest. that Postmaster General gave Owney him a coat to display Owney was a small terrier mix who them all; the coat jingled belonged to a clerk at the Albany, like sleigh bells. Wana- NY, post office in 1887. The dog often maker named Owney the would come with the clerk to work and unofficial mascot of the Another reported that he had ventured sleep on the mail bags. When the clerk Post Office Department. One report into North Africa. Owney’s triumphant quit the post office, he left the mutt claimed that Owney had 1,017 medals return to American shores was covered with the clerks at the post office. and tokens. by newspapers nationwide. Without a permanent home, Owney In 1895, the terrier went from Owney became ill and aggressive in would go with the mail bags, often Tacoma, WA, on a four-month trip his old age. In June 1897, after alleg- riding in the mail car on trains. He was throughout Asia and across Europe, edly attacking a postal clerk and a U.S. considered to be good luck by postal traveling by postal train and ship that marshal in Toledo, Owney was shot railway clerks, since no train he rode carried mailbags, before returning and killed on the orders of the local on was ever in a wreck. to Albany. A report claimed that the postmaster. Another story told of a mail pouch emperor of Japan had awarded the Owney’s remains were preserved, that had accidentally fallen out of a dog two passports and several med- and he is the subject of an exhibit at the wagon during a delivery route the dog als bearing the Japanese coat of arms. Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum.

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 27 Postal pioneers

John Thompson In 1837, at the age of 10, Jon Tor- steinson-Rue came to the United States from , where his name was changed to John Thompson. His family moved from Illinois to Missouri, Iowa and Wisconsin. After gold fever struck, Thompson moved on to California and mined enough to buy a small ranch in the . In 1855, Thompson saw an ad in John Thompson the Sacramento Union: “People Lost (r) didn’t use to the World; Needs a Mail what we think Carrier.” The Post Office was having of as snow- shoes, instead problems delivering the mail across using skis (far the Sierra Mountains. Thompson knew r). The route the importance of speedy mail deliv- he traveled ery, having received news too late of delivering the his own mother’s death by influenza. mail is above. He quickly submitted his application swaying his for the job to a contractor and set off balance pole for his first run in 1856. to one side He took three days, going from Pla- and the other cerville to Mormon Station (which later became the town of Genoa, NV). The in the manner return trip took two more days. After that a soaring eagle dips its wings.” his first successful run, he would make Thompson often rescued prospectors he would eventually be paid. “If I do the run up to four times a month for caught in the snow. One well-known my job and get the mail to the people, the next 20 years. incident took place in 1856, when he Uncle Sam will pay me,” he said. Despite his eventual nickname of found a trapper who had been shelter- However, even an 1869 appeal by the “Snowshoe,” Thompson didn’t use tra- ing with half-frozen feet in a deserted Nevada legislature to the federal gov- ditional snowshoes, opting for 10-foot cabin for 12 days, with no food or fire. ernment for $6,000 in compensation skis and a single sturdy pole generally Thompson chopped him some wood went unheeded. so he would stay warm, and set out to held in both hands at once. He wore A lasting legacy a Mackinaw jacket, a wide-brimmed Genoa for help. He had to carve skis hat and covered his face in charcoal and give lessons to the rescuers who Whether on foot, by stagecoach, to prevent snow blindness. He carried had agreed to accompany him. Once railway or even on skis, these postal no blankets, but did carry matches to back in Genoa, the doctor reported pioneers fulfilled their duty to protect start fires, and his Bible. He snacked that the trapper’s feet needed to be and deliver the mail. Letter carriers on dried sausage, beef jerky, crackers amputated, but he had no chloroform. continue that tradition today when and biscuits. Thompson set out once again to Placer- they take the oath to perform their His mail sack often weighed up to ville, but there was none to be found, so sworn duties. 100 pounds, as he carried medicine, he continued on to Sacramento before This article shouldn’t be mistaken emergency supplies, clothing, books, returning with the chloroform. for a complete list. These are just tools, pots and pans. Despite his many years of service, some of the stories we’ve heard over Dan de Quille of the Virigina City Ter- Thompson was never paid by the the years. If you know other stories of ritorial Enterprise later wrote of Thomp- government or the contractor for his postal pioneers you’d like The Postal son: “He flew down the mountainside. services delivering the mail. As a Record to consider for a future story, ... His appearance was graceful, subcontractor, he took it on faith that please send them to us. PR

28 The Postal Record September 2020 Proud to Serve Proud to Serve is a semi-regular compilation of heroic stories about letter carriers in their communities. If you know about a hero in your branch, contact us as soon as possible at 202-662-2489 or at [email protected]. We’ll follow up with you to obtain news clippings, photos or other information. Honoring heroic carriers eroism, like the mail, comes in Hill, despite the danger, decide to go Hero Award in recognition of his brav- many packages—think of police through the front door. There, he could ery on July 22. Hofficers or firefighters. But for see the officer lying on the ground in The carrier was modest about the Jen McCracken some citizens in need of assistance, a pool of blood. “I didn’t know what attention. “I just did at that moment their heroes come in the form of con- [part of him] was injured,” he said. what I thought was the right thing to cerned letter carriers. A neighbor, who also had heard the do,” he said. Letter carriers are members of original commotion and rushed to nearly every community in this nation help, was restraining the assailant, so Carrier’s quick action and know when something is wrong. Hill quickly went over to the injured of- aids fire evacuation Spotting fires and injuries, they often ficer and attempted to calm him down. are the first to respond. The following As Hill later found out, the officer had Buffalo-Western New York Branch 3 stories document their heroism. For been stabbed several times during the member Joshua Detlef was delivering them, delivering for America is all in a course of a welfare check, including mail on his route on May 7 when, he day’s work. several serious injuries to his eyes. recalled, “I noticed smoke rising over “He was panicking and saying that the top of houses.” When he raced Carrier recognized for he couldn’t see,” Hill said. “I let him around the corner to investigate, help saving injured officer know that the cops were on their way.” the 13-year carrier saw a customer’s garage “engulfed in flames.” Rochester, NY Branch 210 member The officer was taken to the hospital As he approached the house, he “ ‘I could see the dog Ramique Hill had already noticed the and eventually recovered, though he realized that a neighbor also had police officer across the street during did not regain his eyesight. grabbing her by the rushed to the scene. The neighbor one of his deliveries on Oct. 4, 2019, The incident was covered extensive- was on the phone with a 911 operator shoulder...it was drag- but he wasn’t really paying attention ly by Rochester news outlets, which while banging on the front door to when he heard a commotion coming featured Hill and two others for their ging her across the alert the residents, but Detlef knew from the scene. Then, suddenly, “I role in helping the officer. Hill was also that the homeowners never used the grass,’ the four-year heard a gunshot go off,” Hill said, and recognized by the Rochester Police front entrance. carrier later told Cleve- he quickly acted. Department and the city of Rochester, He rushed to the side of the house. land 19 News. ‘She was “I [secured] the mail and called and received the Postmaster General the police,” the “I ran and ripped bleeding pretty bad.’ ” carrier, who was open the side a city carrier door,” Detlef said. assistant at the “There were two time, recalled. kids in there and The emergency the dog.” A few responder asked moments later, the him to check on children’s mother, the officer if he Kelly Kwilos, came felt comfortable into the room from approaching the basement, the scene, so where she had been Hill went up to working. Detlef told the house. He Kwilos, “You have to was standing on get out of here—the the porch when garage is on fire!” “I saw a lot of Alerted to the blood,” he said. situation, Kwilos Another shot Ramique Hill (r), who helped saved the life of officer Denny Wright when he was quickly gathered went off inside attacked by an assailant with a knife, is interviewed alongside Wright by ABC news her children, the house, and affiliate WHAM-TV. mother and small

September 2020 The Postal Record 29 Proud to Serve

dog and left the house. The carrier all of the residents had been account- evacuated. Once he determined that grabbed the larger family dog by the ed for. “I just wanted to make sure all of his customers were safe and that [everyone] had gotten out of the emergency services were on their way, house,” he said. He then escorted the Detlef continued on his route. “Everyone on the street family to his postal vehicle to wait for Firefighters were unable to save was saying ‘thank you,’ the fire department. Just minutes after the Kwiloses’ house, but thanks to their evacuation, the fire spread from Detlef’s quick thinking and bravery, and I said, ‘I just did the garage to the house. nobody was injured. The carrier, what any of you would Once the Kwilos family was safe, however, downplayed his role in the Detlef looked around and noticed situation. “I don’t feel like a hero,” have done.’ ” that the neighboring house also had he said. “Everyone on the street was caught fire. He rushed over to make saying ‘thank you,’ and I said, ‘I collar and left with them. sure that everyone was all right; just did what any of you would have Once outside, Detlef confirmed that fortunately, that family already had done.’ ” Eye on the elderly n June 26, Trenton, NJ hospital and remained there lying face-down on the floor.” dehydration, contusions and OBranch 380 member for rehabilitation, but has She tried the door handle, several broken ribs. Ruthruff Donald Alm III was making a since recovered and returned which fortunately was said that she was “just doing delivery on one of his routes home. Alm did not mention unlocked, and entered the my job.” She added, “You no- as a T-6 when he was ap- his actions to others at the home. “He was alert, which tice these things, especially if proached by that customer’s post office; his colleagues was amazing since he’d been someone picks up their mail neighbor. The man told him found out only when the there since Sunday night,” all the time.” PR that the homeowner, an regular route carrier shared Ruthruff said. elderly woman named Mary- the story. Alm said it was just She called 911 Ann Urban, had not been part of the “unique” position and waited collecting her mail or news- that letter carriers have: “We with the papers. The neighbor was interact with people the best customer for concerned that something we can,” he said. “I do like paramedics might have happened to the helping the community.” to arrive. After woman. The 26-year carrier making him decided to investigate. “I rand Rapids, MI Branch comfortable, started knocking on the front G56 member Gail Ruthruff she made window,” he said, “and I had dropped off her normal sure that his could hear someone saying, Monday delivery to one of her dogs were ‘Help me, help me.’ ” All the elderly customers. She wasn’t all right and doors were locked, however, too concerned when she saw gathered his and the carrier was unable that the mail was still sitting medications to get in. Alm called 911 and in the mailbox on Tuesday. to take to reported the situation. “Then However, by Wednesday, the hospi- I yelled back [to Urban] May 6, when she arrived at tal. When that we were getting help,” the house and saw that all of emergency he said. He waited until the mail was uncollected, the services came emergency services arrived; 25-year carrier became con- to the house, when paramedics gained cerned about her customer. they took the entry into the house, they “I knocked on the door, and customer to found Urban on the floor. there was no answer,” she the hospital, She had fallen several days said. “So, I peered through where he was Gail Ruthruff before. She was taken to the the window, and I saw him treated for

3030 TheThe PostalPostal RecordRecord JanuarySeptember 2013 2020 September 2020 Smoke spotted, of residents opened their doors, Dave Schickler “I told the two young ladies

a carrier runs to help that they had to get out,” the On Saturday, May 9, Rochester, carrier said. By the time he had NY Branch 210 member David gone through the house, all of Schickler was about to deliver to the building’s tenants had been the first house on his route when evacuated. he noticed a car abruptly pull When he finally left the over to the side of the road. He building, Schickler was met by then glanced over and saw the firefighters, who began working same thing that the car’s driver to extinguish the blaze. had seen: smoke, rising from the The fire was later found to have back corner of a multi-apartment been caused by an electrical house on his route. short. Though the blaze was put The driver opened his door and out before any extensive property let the 32-year carrier know that damage occurred, the flames did he was calling 911. But Schickler reach the bedroom of one of the decided not to wait for emergency young women whom the carrier services to arrive; as someone had warned. who knew the building well, he Schickler said that his assis- wanted to warn his customers tance was just part of the job. about the fire. “We’re out here a lot, and we see After entering the residence, a lot,” he said. “You never know Schickler knocked on doors to what you’re going to find [on the alert the residents. When a couple route].” PR Help on the way n Jan. 16, Fort Atkinson, was able to find several jack- OWI Branch 729 member ets, which she laid on top of Megan Mosher was in the him. The man slowly regained middle of a route inspection consciousness, and told them with her supervisor when she that he had fallen and hit his noticed that a customer was head. He was confused and lying motionless on his garage distressed, so Mosher and floor. When the two-year her supervisor stayed with carrier knelt down to exam- him until paramedics arrived. ine him, “he was cold to the The man’s wife later called touch,” she recalled. The man the post office to thank them. was wearing only a T-shirt in “I saw him a couple of months freezing temperatures, and later,” Mosher said, “and he was unresponsive. Mosher was doing well.” She added, yelled for her supervisor to “It was an honor [to help him]. call 911. “I tried finding things As a community member, you to cover him up” while they need to be vigilant and pay at- waited for emergency services tention when someone needs Megan Mosher to arrive, Mosher said. She help.” PR

JanuarySeptember 2013 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 31 Executive Vice President

Why elections matter to us othing is more polarizing hancement Act of 2006 made changes. The Postal Service than politics. While this has has a much more complicated management and oversight Nalways been true, it seems structure than a postmaster general and other headquar- that 2020 has brought it to anoth- ters executives. This management structure is chiefly re- er level. We are in the middle of a sponsible for the operations of USPS, but there also are presidential election. We still, un- governance, oversight and regulatory arms. fortunately, are living in a pandemic The first is the United States Postal Service Board of that almost no living American has Governors. The board oversees the USPS, much in the ever experienced, and certainly no same way as corporations employ a board. Among its letter carrier has experienced the responsibilities are choosing a postmaster general and way it has affected our jobs. As if directing Postal Service expenditures, reviewing its prac- that wasn’t enough, the short- and tices and engaging in long-range planning. The board also long-term future of the Postal Ser- sets policies on nearly all postal matters and addresses vice has become the lead story on issues such as service standards. nearly every news outlet. This con- The board is made up of nine governors, appointed by fluence of events and circumstanc- the president of the United States and confirmed by the Brian es is unique and unprecedented Senate. No more than five governors can be members Renfroe from a letter carrier’s perspective. of the same political party. The postmaster general and The outcome of the presidential assistant postmaster general also are members of the election and other races that will be decided in November board. The president and the Senate choose the people will have a significant impact on the future of the Postal who have a very large influence on USPS, and therefore Service and our jobs. Most letter carriers are aware of our jobs. the need for funding for USPS to sustain us through the The regulatory arm of the USPS is the Postal Regula- pandemic. Most letter carriers also are aware of the need tory Commission (PRC). The PRC regulates issues such as for postal reform for our long-term sustainability. Such re- postal rates and provides transparency and accountabil- form must center on addressing the mandate to pre-fund ity for USPS operations. It is composed of five commis- future retiree health benefits. These are the largest issues sioners, each of whom is nominated by the president and facing us right now, but they are not the only effect that a confirmed by the Senate. presidential administration or Congress can have. The USPS Office of Inspector General (OIG) is charged with improving the Postal Service’s bottom line through independent audits and investigations. While many let- “The outcome of the presidential ter carriers are familiar with the OIG field agents, there is a large group in the Washington, DC, area that focuses on election and other races that will larger USPS issues than ones you may see locally. The in- be decided in November will have spector general is chosen by the USPS Board of Governors. a significant effect on the future of As you can see, the president and the Senate are re- sponsible for choosing the people who have the most in- the Postal Service and our jobs.” fluence over the present and future of the Postal Service. Of course, Congress also has broad authority over USPS. You have likely seen, in this issue of The Postal Record It is important that people in all of these positions share or elsewhere, that the NALC Executive Council unani- our view of providing efficient and robust service to the mously endorsed Vice President and Senator American people and work toward sensible postal reform Kamala Harris in the 2020 presidential election. There has that addresses the pre-funding mandate and gives us the been and will be much more written about why Joe Biden operational flexibility to grow our business. The future of will be the better president for letter carrier jobs. Though I the service we provide to our customers and our jobs will strongly agree, as evidenced by my vote on the Executive be at stake this fall when we exercise our right to vote in Council, I am not going to do that here. First, I think we all our democracy. should remind ourselves why any administration affects our jobs, and therefore why NALC endorses a candidate. The Postal Reorganization Act of 1970 established a structure for USPS and the Postal Accountability and En-

32 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Vice President

Why elections matter to us Meet the new boss hancement Act of 2006 made changes. The Postal Service e have a new postmaster I am talking about the Case Consolidation test. The con- has a much more complicated management and oversight general by the name of Louis cept here is to separate office work from street work by hav- structure than a postmaster general and other headquar- WDeJoy. He was appointed on ing a few letter carriers perform the office duties on mul- ters executives. This management structure is chiefly re- June 15 and has relatively little expe- tiple routes while most of the letter carriers come to work sponsible for the operations of USPS, but there also are rience with the Postal Service. He has and go directly to the street. The theory is that the delivery governance, oversight and regulatory arms. been in the position for less than two unit will use fewer work hours through a reduction in office The first is the United States Postal Service Board of months as I write this and already time used each day. Governors. The board oversees the USPS, much in the has announced a restructuring plan This concept has been tested three other times over the same way as corporations employ a board. Among its for the Postal Service. This is nothing years and failed miserably each time. This fourth attempt responsibilities are choosing a postmaster general and new. at reinventing a wheel that does not roll produced worse directing Postal Service expenditures, reviewing its prac- The last postmaster general who results than the three earlier attempts. You do not have to tices and engaging in long-range planning. The board also came from the outside was Marvin take my word for it. Just have someone provide you with sets policies on nearly all postal matters and addresses Runyon. He was appointed on July an analysis of work hours used prior to the test compared issues such as service standards. 6, 1992, and served as postmaster to work hours used during the test in the 62 sites involved The board is made up of nine governors, appointed by general for about six years. His nick- and you will see what I am talking about. the president of the United States and confirmed by the name was Carvin’ Marvin. Some of The one change made this time that caused the Case Con- Senate. No more than five governors can be members Lew you may remember him. He restruc- solidation test to fail even more miserably than the previous of the same political party. The postmaster general and Drass tured the Postal Service as well. I attempts was the aspect of reducing casing equipment by assistant postmaster general also are members of the think the biggest mistake he made requiring letter carriers to use six-shelf cases. The trouble board. The president and the Senate choose the people when he restructured was that he with using a six-shelf case to sort mail is there is only six split the departments of Mail Processing and Delivery. Af- who have a very large influence on USPS, and therefore inches of space between shelves. Most of the mail we case ter that restructure, Mail Processing rode on one track and these days is taller than 6 inches, which makes it more dif- our jobs. Delivery rode on another. Mail Processing looked out for its The regulatory arm of the USPS is the Postal Regula- ficult to place a piece of mail in a case that has six shelves. own interests without regard to the interests and needs of The end result is that casing mail in a six-shelf case creates tory Commission (PRC). The PRC regulates issues such as the Delivery arm of the Postal Service. That problem is still postal rates and provides transparency and accountabil- a natural inefficiency because it takes longer to do the work. true today. Any restructuring plan should address this situ- This fact was proved during the Case Consolidation test. ity for USPS operations. It is composed of five commis- ation and put these two entities back under the same roof. sioners, each of whom is nominated by the president and There is a lot of suspicion that Postmaster General DeJoy has Despite this fact, OPS has moved on to a new initiative confirmed by the Senate. come here to destroy the Postal Service. I really hope he did called Postal Service Sorting Equipment Reconciliation (SER). The USPS Office of Inspector General (OIG) is charged not come here to slow down the mail, seek to destroy customer Translation: Convert every route in the country to six-shelf with improving the Postal Service’s bottom line through service or drive our package business away. If this turns out to cases. This is like creating an even worse spin-off to a horrible independent audits and investigations. While many let- be the case, he better be ready for a fight, as he will meet great sitcom. The result will be that it will take letter carriers longer ter carriers are familiar with the OIG field agents, there is opposition from the employees and their unions, from lawmak- to case and pull-down mail, resulting in less efficiency. a large group in the Washington, DC, area that focuses on ers and from customers. These are all powerful forces! Mr. DeJoy, if you truly desire to make the Postal Service larger USPS issues than ones you may see locally. The in- more efficient, here are a few simple suggestions to con- spector general is chosen by the USPS Board of Governors. Mr. DeJoy, if you are on the up and up about coming sider that could be implemented immediately in the City here to maintain universal service at uniform prices and Delivery Letter Carrier Craft: As you can see, the president and the Senate are re- truly desire to make the Postal Service more efficient, you sponsible for choosing the people who have the most in- should consider listening to the employees who actually 1. Do not let the folks in OPS continue to test/implement fluence over the present and future of the Postal Service. do the work before you listen to the folks from Operational ideas that are inefficient and make no sense. Of course, Congress also has broad authority over USPS. Programs Support (OPS). 2. End the Case Consolidation test in the 31 sites that are It is important that people in all of these positions share We have a City Delivery Task Force that is supposed to still going right now. This test will end later this year in our view of providing efficient and robust service to the seek ways to better do our work and make us more efficient these sites anyway. Why wait? American people and work toward sensible postal reform while not sacrificing customer service. When I served on 3. Do not implement the SER initiative described above. that addresses the pre-funding mandate and gives us the that task force, I always promoted the principle that while Converting casing equipment to six shelves for every operational flexibility to grow our business. The future of testing different ways to do our work, success or failure route in the country will result in an increase of over- the service we provide to our customers and our jobs will must be gauged by whether we use more or fewer work time use in every office. be at stake this fall when we exercise our right to vote in hours as a result of the test. 4. Demand contract compliance at every level of the or- our democracy. ganization. Here is a true story: OPS has been unilaterally testing a 5. Start utilizing the City Delivery Task Force to create and stale concept that was doomed for failure from the begin- test innovative ideas to achieve efficiency as intended. ning for over a year. Worse still, it is now implementing one of the worst aspects of the test nationwide without any re- Mr. DeJoy, time will tell if you are better, worse, or just gard for efficiency. the same as the old boss. Your choice.

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 33 Secretary- Treasurer

Frequently asked IRS questions ranch officers often call NALC the individual are $600 or more during the tax year (see Headquarters with questions page 4-18 of the guide). However, this does not exempt the Babout financial issues. Many individual from claiming the extra income. questions also surface during of- My branch/state association has been receiving notices ficer training. After the question is from our state that we must purchase workers’ compensa- answered, the branch officer may be tion insurance. Is this true? directed to the NALC Branch Officer’s Guide to Finance and Administration, In all 50 states, if you pay any wages then you are consid- available for purchase from the NALC ered an employer and workers’ compensation insurance is Supply Department or for free on the mandatory (see page 4-7 of the guide). In some states, the in- NALC website from the Secretary- surance must be secured directly with the state fund. In most Treasurer’s page. The guide contains states, the premium and benefit structures are set by each the following sections: Branch Of- state government but the actual insurance coverage is pro- ficer Duties, NALC Dues, Reporting vided by standard insurance companies via your insurance to the U.S. Department Of Labor, agent. Volunteers and/or employees who receive very little Reporting to the Internal Revenue compensation may be exempt from such coverage in some Nicole Service, Bonding Requirements, states. Check your state’s website for further clarification. and Branch Record Keeping. If your Is any documentation required for per diem payments? Rhine branch secretary/treasurer does not have this guide, I suggest that the Yes. The branch needs to maintain proof of an overnight branch get one for use by all fiduciary officers in the branch. stay. A hotel receipt, a copy of a round-trip plane ticket or The following is a sample of common IRS-related ques- similar documentation should be sufficient. The branch tions asked during phone calls or during training semi- need not collect documentation (receipts) of the amount of “Management has an absolute re- nars, as well as the answers and their location in the NALC expenses actually incurred (see pages 4-13 through 4-17 of sponsibility to do everything pos- Branch Officer’s Guide to Finance and Administration. the guide for more information on per diem). If we pay our stewards $150 per month as a stipend, do we Is an early payment to a hotel or airline considered a travel sible to help keep us safe until this have to file a W-2? advance? pandemic is over.” Yes. Stewards are considered to be employees of the No. Making an early payment directly to a hotel or air- branch (whether they are appointed by the branch presi- line—or reimbursing a member for the actual cost of an dent or elected by the branch membership) and, as such, airline ticket purchased in advance for approved branch the branch must report stipends as wages and withhold travel—is not considered a travel advance. the appropriate taxes. This holds true for all officers of a Is it OK to give branch officers travel advances? branch receiving any payments that could be considered wages (see pages 4-4 and 4-5 of the guide). Travel advances are OK as long as the branch keeps cer- tain rules in mind. To comply with the rules outlined by the I heard that if you stay under $600 per year paid to a Labor Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA), branch officer, you don’t have to do anything—not even is- the sum of all advances to any one individual in a fiscal sue a 1099. Is this true? year should never exceed $2,000. Also, the officer receiv- No. Again, officers are considered employees of the branch ing the advance should document expenditures against and, as such, the branch must deduct payroll taxes and pay the advance and return to the branch any excess funds for taxes, since the branch is an employer. It does not matter which documentation was not submitted. how much money an employee earns; the branch must pay In addition, IRS rules require an advance for expenses to all payroll taxes and issue a W-2 (see page 4-7 of the guide). be made within a reasonable time—generally no more than A Form 1099-MISC is issued under two circumstances: 1) 30 days before the expenses are expected to be incurred. The branch makes a payment under a non-accountable plan Under the LMRDA, an advance for expenses is considered to a member who is not considered an employee under IRS a reportable loan unless the advance is provided within 30 tax rules (see pages 4-15 and 4-16 of the guide); or 2) The days of travel and accounted for within 30 days following branch makes a payment to somebody who is not a member the trip (see page 4-21 of the guide). To avoid encountering for services rendered to the branch, such as a contractor. problems when advances are not properly accounted for, it The 1099-MISC must be issued only for services rendered may be best to forgo advances and instead reimburse for ac- and not when payments are made to purchase goods. The tual expenses after receipts have been submitted or opt to 1099-MISC must be issued only when total payments to provide per diem per the IRS guidelines.

34 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Assistant Secretary-Treasurer

A day in your honor s of the reading of this article, the nation will have recently Acelebrated Labor Day, one of the 10 federally recognized holidays. This holiday carries special meaning to NALC and organized labor, as it serves as recognition of the monu- mental importance and invaluable contributions of unions to the Ameri- can landscape. For it is organized labor that unifies workers with the mission of improving economic sta- tus and working conditions of work- teachers, first responders, police officers, distribution center ers through collective bargaining workers, truck drivers, grocery store clerks, and letter carri- and legislation. ers, to name a few. Some folks call these workers “essen- Paul Labor Day weekend means many tial.” We know them as “heroes.” Their bravery is unques- things to many people. It is the time tionable and their contributions undeniable. And many have Barner to gather with family and friends for a at least one thing in common—labor union membership. backyard barbecue, to celebrate the These union members go to work knowing that their union traditional end of summer and to mark the start of another stands firmly behind them every shift. This link is vital in academic year. For some, it involves out-of-town travel, com- each of these essential workers’ roles. Like we have done munity events such as parades, shopping for school clothes throughout our existence, labor unions continue today to or a simple day at the beach. For most, it represents a long weekend of well-deserved rest and relaxation. But with all of the different ways that Americans spend the first Monday in September each year, it is easy to forget the real reason why “While this national holiday was this day is celebrated. And as is the case with most tributes, founded over a century ago... its this federal holiday designation would not have happened had it not been for hard work, tenacity and dedication. meaning is especially relevant to- Labor Day was first celebrated by New York’s Central day. In 2020, it is hard to miss the Labor Union on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1882, to showcase the contributions that workers have spirit and solidarity of the trade and labor organizations. More than 10,000 union workers took unpaid time off work provided the country during the to march through that day. In its third year COVID-19 pandemic.” (1884), the Labor Day observance was changed to the first Monday in September, and other unions and trade organiza- tions joined in on the celebration. protect worker rights, working conditions, and most impor- By 1885, Labor Day observances were being held in indus- tantly in these uncertain times, worker safety. This truth is trial centers nationwide. Oregon, Colorado, Massachusetts, just as important and relevant today as it was when Labor New Jersey and New York became the first states to legally Day was first declared a national holiday way back when. adopt the holiday in 1887. In 1894, almost 4,000 factory em- For these reasons, and many more over the course of ployees of the Pullman railway company went on strike to America’s history, workers deserve this day of honor! I protest reduced wages. This then sparked a series of nation- hope everyone had a safe and healthy Labor Day holi- wide boycotts and riots. Soon after, President Grover Cleve- day. land declared Labor Day a national holiday as conciliation. While this national holiday was founded more than a century ago, and its origins are sometimes lost, its meaning is especially relevant today. In 2020, it is hard to miss the contributions that workers have provided the country during the COVID-19 crisis. The list of dedicated workers is long—

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 35 Director of City Delivery

New office activities study September is National Suicide for city carriers Awareness Month s time marches on and the of data from approximately 400 routes during the study; seasons continuously change, the information would be used to evaluate current office Aso does the testing USPS con- standards and, if necessary, create new standards. ducts with city letter carriers. In this NALC didn’t hear anything further from USPS about month’s article, I will describe a this study until March 3. We were notified that a contract new office activities study recently introduced by USPS. had been awarded for the data collection analysis, and we were provided with a list of 36 sites of various sizes that In August, pursuant to Article had been randomly selected for the study. USPS stated 34 of the National Agreement, the that the contractor will collect data through on-site visits Postal Service began collecting both in the morning and the afternoon. data to be included in a study of In a letter dated March 17, NALC was provided a list of city carriers’ office activities. As the routes selected to be included in the study. Subse- with several other recent unilat- quently, on March 18, the Postal Service notified NALC eral tests involving city letter car- that the study was being temporarily postponed due to riers, USPS once again decided the COVID-19 pandemic. Christopher to perform this study on its own On July 9, the Postal Service notified NALC that it was Jackson rather than examining methods to resuming preparations for the study and intended to visit improve the work environment and two sites in Marietta, GA, to record city carriers perform- procedures related to city delivery ing office activities. USPS indicated the purpose of this with NALC through the joint City Delivery Task Force. With video is to assist the contractor with creating training to this new study, the Postal Service contracted third-party be used by their observers in the study. On July 15, I, along contractor Deloitte to observe and collect data related to with a member of my staff, traveled to Marietta to visit and city carriers’ office activities. USPS states this data will observe these sites while this videotaping was being con- be analyzed to potentially develop new work methods or ducted. Three volunteer letter carriers were filmed while standards. Joint exploration by USPS and NALC of both performing office duties and loading/unloading of their new work methods and/or standards are among the many delivery vehicles, in the morning and afternoon. subjects established and directed jointly in the Memoran- On July 24, NALC was provided a schedule for the data dum of Understanding Re: City Delivery Task Force incor- collection in the randomly selected sites. Data collectors porated in the National Agreement. counted the mail and observed carriers performing office and loading/unloading duties in the morning and the afternoon on the selected routes. Throughout the study, “USPS anticipated collecting one data collectors were required to maintain the appropriate day of data from approximately 400 social distancing, per Postal Service protocol and Centers routes during the study; the infor- for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Prior to the study, NALC sent regional representatives mation would be used to evaluate to each site to explain the study to the letter carriers and current office standards and, if answer any questions they had. Once the data collection was completed, those representatives returned to obtain necessary, create new ones.” feedback from the carriers involved in the study. NALC Headquarters is communicating with USPS regarding NALC was first notified of the Postal Service’s intent to the data collected and its potential usage to determine conduct this study in a letter dated April 19, 2019. In a whether this study complies with the applicable provi- subsequent notification, dated May 1, 2019, USPS told us sions of the National Agreement. the information collected from this study might be used As always, my department is closely monitoring this ini- during the collective-bargaining process. During a meet- tiative and getting feedback from letter carriers involved ing held on May 17, 2019, the Postal Service informed in the study. Be sure to check the NALC website and our NALC that it intended to contract a third-party company social media platforms regularly for updates on USPS to conduct this study. USPS also stated that sites and testing involving city carriers. routes would be randomly selected to collect data related to office activities. USPS anticipated collecting one day

36 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Director of Safety and Health

September is National Suicide Awareness Month of data from approximately 400 routes during the study; serve as the NALC’s designee on finally grown stronger than I was. The sickness created an the information would be used to evaluate current office the National Joint Committee (NJC) incredibly calculated event. It convinced me I was worth- standards and, if necessary, create new standards. Iof the Employee Assistance Pro- less; it convinced me that my wife, daughter, son and grand- gram (EAP). Since the summer of children would be better off if I were not part of their lives. It NALC didn’t hear anything further from USPS about convinced me that death was the most viable solution. this study until March 3. We were notified that a contract 2010, I have been tracking city letter had been awarded for the data collection analysis, and we carrier suicides. Much like George Bailey in “It’s a Wonderful Life,” I was were provided with a list of 36 sites of various sizes that This number has reached a stag- worth more dead than alive and if nothing else, the harm gering 196 suicides. The purpose of I continued to bring to those who cared about me would had been randomly selected for the study. USPS stated come to an end. that the contractor will collect data through on-site visits my column this month is to shine both in the morning and the afternoon. a light on the need to guide each But just like the story of George Bailey, those who cared other to reach for the available re- In a letter dated March 17, NALC was provided a list of about me saved me in the end. sources. the routes selected to be included in the study. Subse- After eight months off work, buried in a basement void of quently, on March 18, the Postal Service notified NALC In preparation for this column, I sunlight and contact with the outside world, my daughter that the study was being temporarily postponed due to reflected on one of the most pow- finally dragged me to the hospital and out of my despair. the COVID-19 pandemic. erful statements made on the sub- I was admitted to a rehabilitation hospital for a week and On July 9, the Postal Service notified NALC that it was Manuel L. ject by my friend, Paul Gillie, who is spent another two weeks in an outpatient program that resuming preparations for the study and intended to visit the past president of Mid-Michigan saved my life, allowed me to return to work and activism two sites in Marietta, GA, to record city carriers perform- Peralta Jr. Branch 256. During an NALC Com- with renewed energy, vigor and, most importantly, a new ing office activities. USPS indicated the purpose of this mittee of Presidents meeting, Paul perspective. video is to assist the contractor with creating training to went to the microphone and when recognized, shared the ...I am excited to say that every week I recognize that I feel be used by their observers in the study. On July 15, I, along following: the best I’ve ever felt in my life. I never knew what happi- ness was, but now I see a small sliver of what it looks like. with a member of my staff, traveled to Marietta to visit and ...I am humbled by this opportunity to be here and share I am the best I’ve ever been and I’m only getting stronger, observe these sites while this videotaping was being con- with you today. Illness is a funny thing. It can so easily be better and more driven toward the things that make life ducted. Three volunteer letter carriers were filmed while a destructive force in our lives, and the lives of those who worth living... performing office duties and loading/unloading of their care about us... delivery vehicles, in the morning and afternoon. I tell this story for a reason. We are all familiar with the On July 24, NALC was provided a schedule for the data I was born with an inheritance handed down through the postings at the airports that say: “If you see something, say generations. It was a disease that I never knew I had be- something.” We need to apply that to our personal lives as collection in the randomly selected sites. Data collectors cause I never knew a life different than what I was living. I counted the mail and observed carriers performing office well. I can’t begin to count the number of people who knew know now that my family tree includes an incredible num- that something was terribly wrong. Yet none knew what to and loading/unloading duties in the morning and the ber of holes and gaps where parents buried their children, afternoon on the selected routes. Throughout the study, do about it. When we see someone struggling with work parents were stolen from their families too early in life, and or being wronged, we all know what to do. We challenge data collectors were required to maintain the appropriate a multitude of families and lives were left destroyed; all social distancing, per Postal Service protocol and Centers it through the grievance procedure. When there is some- brought by the carnage of an invisible disease... thing wrong with our branches, we know (or we figure out) for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Of the current generation, one cousin killed himself, as did what to do to restore our branch and hopefully make the Prior to the study, NALC sent regional representatives my own brother after nearly 50 years of a mostly miserable membership more unified and stronger. But when we see to each site to explain the study to the letter carriers and life...While others inherit boats, cabins, houses, trust funds someone who is in a hole deeper than we can fathom, we answer any questions they had. Once the data collection and other family resources that make each generation was completed, those representatives returned to obtain more affluent than the one before, the heritage of my feedback from the carriers involved in the study. NALC family is one of destruction and dysfunction brought by Headquarters is communicating with USPS regarding an illness the medical community is ill prepared to ad- the data collected and its potential usage to determine dress, let alone to cure. But it’s not entirely their fault. whether this study complies with the applicable provi- Depression has a very real life of its own. It hides from sions of the National Agreement. the sunlight and prevents its victims from seeing the As always, my department is closely monitoring this ini- truth. It deceives and shirks any attempt to be found tiative and getting feedback from letter carriers involved and destroyed. It attacks the host at every opportunity, in the study. Be sure to check the NALC website and our making it weaker and more susceptible to its effect. It social media platforms regularly for updates on USPS makes you feel vulnerable and responsible for the hav- oc it reaps as it grows stronger every day... testing involving city carriers. I believe myself to be a relatively strong person, but after 54 years of controlling my life, the disease had

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 37 Director of Safety and Health

Suicide Awareness Month (continued) fail to act for fear of doing the wrong thing or because we simply don’t know what to do. Please let me be clear: If you care about that person, you must act. Action taken from a position of love, affection or empathy toward another is al- ways appropriate, although it may not be appreciated until much later. ...As family, we look out for each another. So please be strong, be well, please look after each other, get in each other’s face when it is war- ranted, and don’t ever give up on each other. To every- one who helped save my life, thank you. I will see you all again very soon. Today, I reached out to Paul to ask if he would permit me to share his words with you Services provided through the USPS can be reached through this month’s column. Paul and I hope that his through: words may encourage someone to help, someone to not • Web—EAP4YOU.com give up and someone to keep living. • Phone—800-EAP-4YOU (800-327-4968) In our friendship, Paul has always been willing to do any- (24 hours a day) thing he can to help others, so Paul, we thank you. To those of you reading this, never give up, never give in. Let this • TTY—877-492-7341 effort turn that light on in your life and let help reach those The following resources are also available to anyone: in need. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline On the same subject, I recently watched a show titled 800-273-8255 (available 24 hours, in English and “The Weight of Gold” on HBO. Gold medalist Michael Spanish) Phelps used his experience in the Olympic world to shed light on the mental health needs of our athletes, leading up Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Admin- to, during and after the Olympic experience is over. Watch istration it with your family and talk about it afterward. There is great samsha.gov value in communicating openly. We should be searching 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255) our emotions, looking for answers and, more importantly, US Department of Veterans Affairs—Mental Health reaching out to others and to professionals for the help mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention that is there. The VA website indicates: This now leads me to the ask. Reach out to others to connect with the help available. Under Article 35 of the Suicide is a national public health concern that affects all National Agreement, employees are entitled to EAP ser- Americans. VA believes that everyone has a role to play vices through the national service provider. Currently, in preventing suicide. That’s why we are working with an New Directions Behavioral Health provides our members extensive network of community partners across the coun- and their families with the EAP services that they are en- try—including faith communities, employers, schools and titled to at no cost. Start with EAP to get an in-depth evalu- healthcare organizations—to prevent suicide among all veterans, including those who may never come to VA for ation of your situation and your needs. These services are care. confidential. If you have any questions, reach out to your district advisory committee or reach out to a counselor. Keep an eye on each other, open your heart and help!

38 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Director of Retired Members

Retirement security in a crisis here has been a lot of talk in agency automatic contributions (1 percent) and associated the last few months regard- earnings in their accounts. FERS employees become vested T ing the Postal Service’s dire in these agency automatic contributions and earnings after financial situation, and how the three years of creditable civilian service, as determined by agency is quickly running out of their TSP Service Computation Date (see item 20 on your PS cash. Along with this comes talk of 50, Notification of Personnel Action). whether the Postal Service should When you work and pay Social Security taxes, you earn be included in pandemic relief “credits” toward Social Security benefits. The number of programs like other industries and credits you need to get retirement benefits depends on when businesses that have been affect- you were born. Those born after 1929 need 40 credits (10 ed by the crisis. It remains to be years of work). If you stop working before you have enough seen what the future holds for our credits to qualify for benefits, the credits will remain on your jobs and the Service, which has led Social Security record. If you return to work later, you can add many carriers and retirees to raise more credits to qualify. A financial crisis at the Postal Service concerns about the safety of their would not diminish your Social Security record. retirement benefits. Retiree health benefits, which are a vital component of any Dan healthy retirement (especially as health care prices continue Toth NALC members should not be to skyrocket in the United States), are also an entitlement pro- overly concerned. The Civil Service gram, and a liquidity crisis at the Postal Service would pose Retirement System (CSRS) and the no direct or immediate threat to the health benefits of retired Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) are entitle- postal employees. In any event, the Postal Retiree Health Ben- ment benefits, which means that they are required by law efits Fund (PSRHBF) has more than $40 billion in assets, and and are payable to any person who meets the eligibility NALC maintains that the benefits it funds are payable under criteria established by the law. Essentially, the federal gov- current law even if the PSRHBF runs out of money. ernment has a binding obligation to make the payments, While NALC and other postal unions will certainly fight to se- regardless of the financial condition of the Postal Service. cure additional relief for postal employees adversely affected In other words, CSRS and FERS benefits are guaranteed un- by the pandemic, a liquidity crisis at the Postal Service could der current law and can only be modified through a change also affect other workplace benefits. Laid off workers would in legislation. likely lose access to life insurance benefits under the Federal In any case, the Postal Service is only one of many fed- eral agencies that use CSRS and FERS benefits. In fiscal year 2018, more than 2.6 million people received annuity “The federal government has a bind- benefits from the two programs, including some 500,000 postal annuitants. Moreover, the Civil Service Retirement ing obligation to make [retirement] and Disability Fund (CSRDF), the fund for FERS and CSRS payments, regardless of the financial benefits, had a balance of $915.3 billion, an amount equal to more than 10 times the amount of outlays from the fund condition of the Post Office.” that year. In the unlikely event that the CSRDF is exhausted, benefits are payable by the Treasury’s General Fund, by law. Employees’ Group Life Insurance program and health insur- Employees with five years of creditable civilian service ance benefits under the Federal Employee Health Benefits under CSRS or FERS become vested and by age 62 become (FEHB) program, though such furloughed employees would eligible to receive an annuity. This remains true even if the qualify for continued coverage under COBRA at their own ex- Postal Service is forced to furlough or lay off employees pense (for both the employee and employer premiums). that are vested. FERS disability retirement requires only 18 There is one important caveat to all of this. Our benefits months of credit under FERS civilian service. are set by law, so what Congress has granted us, Congress However, FERS is a three-part retirement system that can take away by changing the law. Although we have no includes the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Furloughed or laid reason to believe that Congress would slash our benefits off employees would no longer be able to contribute to in the event of a liquidity crisis at the Postal Service, it has their TSP. TSP participants are immediately vested in their the power to do so. That is why NALC considers legislative own contributions and any agency matching contributions. and political engagement such a high priority. The men and However, there is a minimum amount of time in service women elected to federal office make all the decisions about a TSP participant must meet in order to be vested in the our jobs, our pensions and our health insurance.

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 39 Director of Life Insurance

Family Retirement Savings Plan ALC members who enjoy and $7,000 for those ages 50 and older before the end saving for their retirement of 2020. Modified adjusted gross income eligibility limits Nthrough the use of an MBA Re- are $65,000 for a single filer and $104,000 for a married tirement Savings Plan (RSP) wanted couple filing jointly. to extend that benefit to their family The Roth IRA’s contributions are not tax-deductible, but members. In 2016, the delegates at earnings accumulate tax-free as long as the annuitant is the 70th biennial national conven- over age 50 and six months and the plan has been in force tion approved a resolution to extend for at least five years at the time of the withdrawal. As of this MBA benefit to the families of 2020, the contribution limit for a Roth IRA is similar to the NALC members. As a result, the MBA traditional IRA, if the individual’s modified adjusted gross began offering the MBA Family Re- income does not exceed $124,000 for a single filer and tirement Savings Plan. $196,000 for a married couple filing jointly. The MBA Family Retirement The MBA Family Retirement Savings Plan selection may Savings Plan is an annuity avail- also be a non-qualified deferred annuity plan. With this able for NALC members’ children, option, there are no income limits for eligibility, no limits James W. step-children, grandchildren, step- on your annual contributions and no requirements to be- grandchildren, great-grandchildren gin taking mandatory distributions at a certain age. The “Jim” Yates and step-great-grandchildren who non-qualified deferred annuity is not an IRA, but a deferred are ages 18 or older. With an initial investment contract that makes regular payments upon deposit of $1,000 to open a plan, a family member can “annuitization.” The earnings on a non-qualified deferred make contributions of as little as $25 per month into an annuity plan are tax deferred until the time of withdrawal. interest-bearing annuity. The annuitant (plan owner) can choose how much to contribute to the plan and how of- Once owners receive their Family Retirement Savings ten. Contributions may be increased, decreased, stopped Plan documents, they have a full 30 days to examine the or started at any time. The plan remains open, even if the plan before deciding whether to keep it. There is no risk. contributions are stopped. By joining the MBA Family Retirement Savings Plan, you can help your family members plan for their retirement years and make sure that their future lifestyles are secure. “By joining the MBA Family Retire- The earlier a family member signs up and begins making contributions, the easier it is to start building a sizable ment Savings Plan, you can help nest egg for the future. your family members plan for their The MBA Family Retirement Savings Plan offers the fol- retirement and make sure that their lowing advantages: future lifestyles are secure.” Dependability—NALC stands behind every policy written by MBA, which was created more than a century ago to give letter carriers’ families reliable savings and insurance plans. Three options available Affordability—MBA operates with low overhead, no The plan is offered as a traditional individual retire- fees and no salespeople on commission, and the savings ment account (IRA), a Roth IRA or a non-qualified deferred and interest are passed on to the annuitant. annuity. To contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA MBA Re- Simplicity—Just fill out an application to join the MBA tirement Savings Plan, the annuitant must have earned Family Retirement Savings Plan. Send it to the MBA office income in the calendar year in which he or she wishes along with the initial deposit of at least $1,000. to contribute. Before electing a plan, you should consult For more information regarding the MBA Family Retirement with a tax advisor to ensure that an IRA is beneficial to the Savings Plan, please call the MBA office toll-free at 800-424- family member and that he or she qualifies. 5184, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., or call With the traditional IRA, the contributions made each 202-638-4318, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. year can be deducted from federal income taxes. The Eastern time. You may also visit our website at nalc.org/mba. earnings on a traditional IRA are tax deferred until the Please note: Currently, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the time of withdrawal. As of 2020, the maximum annual con- MBA phone lines are open only on Tuesdays and Thursdays tribution per individual is $6,000 for those under age 50 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

40 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Director, Health Benefits

Choosing a health insurance plan hoosing a health insurance you receive certain services. The catastrophic out-of-pocket plan can be overwhelming. (OOP) maximum is a protection that limits how much you will CUnfortunately, selecting the have to pay in a calendar year. Keep in mind that all expenses wrong plan can also be a huge fi- may not count toward the catastrophic OOP maximum limit, nancial pitfall. One common mis- and each plan may have different guidelines. With all this in- take is considering only the month- formation in mind, you can compare costs of each insurer by ly premium. Although this must be considering how often you normally see a medical provider, taken into account, it should not be visit a medical specialist, or need care at a facility. the only deciding factor. Remem- I recommend you also review your current health and ber, the cheapest premium may not determine if you have any medical conditions that might be the best option, and could cost require more care in the future, and also plan for the unex- you more in the long run. When de- pected. Unexpected costs are those associated with emer- ciding which plan is best for you, gency room care, surgical procedures and hospital coverage, there are many things to keep in both inpatient and outpatient. mind. You also should pay special attention to the insurer’s Let’s talk about the basics of prescription program. Determine whether the plan offers a Stephanie choosing the right health plan. formulary drug list, or lists each drug into tiers, which will Stewart determine the level of cost you will pay. Provider network benefits Lastly, think about what extra programs or benefits are All plans are not set up the same. Depending on the especially important to you. As every insurer is different, insurance, you may be limited to using only in-network or you may encounter benefits that are not covered by some plans or have a limited coverage. You also may find that certain providers and facilities, or you may receive a greater some insurers have programs that others may not. discount when choosing within a certain network. Under- standably, it is not always comfortable to start over with a new provider or to make a change, so it is very important to understand your options. “If applicable, make sure to look at Some questions to consider: the following elements: deductible, • Can I continue seeing my current provider if enrolled coinsurance, copayments and cata- with this insurer? • Does the insurer have an out-of-network benefit if I strophic maximums.” choose to see a provider outside of the network it of- fers? • What is the in-network and out-of-network cost differ- Dare to compare ence? You can compare up to four plans at opm.gov/insure. • Will I have adequate coverage while I am away from Type in the URL, then click on “Compare Health Plans” home? under the “Quick links” section. Insert your ZIP code, em- • Am I able to nominate my provider to join the plan’s ployee type and pay frequency. After the information is en- network? tered, you will be able to select which plans are of interest • Will I need a referral to see a specialist? and review an overview of benefits. • Is there a difference in cost to see a primary care physi- Remember, the 2021 benefits have not yet been posted at cian versus a specialist? this time but will be available closer to the official Open Season. Out-of-pocket expenses NALC Health Benefit Plan If applicable, make sure to look at the following ele- In closing, I encourage you to look at the NALC Health ments: deductible, coinsurance, copayments and catastroph- Benefit Plan when reviewing your options. We have three ic maximums. A deductible is a fixed amount of covered ex- plan options to choose from, and I believe you will find that penses you must incur for services and supplies before the our benefits and premiums remain competitive in an ever- insurer will start paying benefits. The coinsurance is the per- changing health world. You can find information on our centage of the bill that you will be responsible for after your website at nalchbp.org, or by calling one of our customer deductible has been met. A copayment is a fixed amount of service representatives at 888-636-6252. money you pay to the provider, facility, pharmacy, etc., when Upgrade your health to a union that delivers!

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 41 Contract Talk by the Contract Administration Unit

Contract Administration Unit Brian Renfroe, Executive Vice President Lew Drass, Vice President Christopher Jackson, Director of City Delivery Manuel L. Peralta Jr., Director of Safety and Health Dan Toth, Director of Retired Members Jim Yates, Director of Life Insurance Part-time flexible maximization n Jan. 22, NALC and USPS settled national-level griev- for rotating days off, a PTF employee who works the same ance Q16N-4Q-C-19225551, M-01906 in NALC’s Mate- rotating schedule, eight hours within ten, five days each Orials Reference System (MRS), which concerned the week on the same uninterrupted temporarily vacant duty Postal Service hiring city carrier assistants (CCAs) above the assignment over a six-month period has met the criteria of contractual caps. As a result, approximately 2,500 CCAs meet- Article 7.3.C of the National Agreement (Step 4, A94 N-4A-C ing the criteria outlined in the settlement were converted to 97040950, January 7, 2000, M-01398). part-time flexible (PTF) on March 14. These conversions to PTF National Arbitrator Mittenthal held in H1N-2B-C-4314, July 8, took place in offices with fewer than 200 workyears. Please 1985 (C-05070), that time spent by a PTF on an assignment note, both the 2016-2019 National Agreement and the July opted for under the provisions of Article 41 (Article 41.2.B) 2014 Joint Contract Administration Manual (JCAM) may use counts toward meeting these maximization criteria. However, the provisions of Article 7.3.C will be applied to an uninter- the term “man year” in place of workyear when defining office rupted temporary vacant duty assignment only once (Step 4, designations. These two terms are interchangeable. A94N-4A-C 97040950, January 7, 2000, M-01398). Union representatives with questions regarding the work- year designation of a specific installation should contact The MOU Re: Maximization/Full-Time Flexible – NALC, found their national business agent (NBA). Contact information for on page 7-38 of the July 2014 JCAM, provides the following: the NBA who covers your region can be found at nalc.org. Where a part-time flexible has performed letter carrier du- As we approach the six-month mark since these conver- ties in an installation at least 40 hours a week (8 within 9, sions took place, this is a good time to check whether PTFs or 8 within 10, as applicable), 5 days a week, over a period of 6 months (excluding the duration of seasonal periods have met two separate maximization provisions that apply on seasonal routes, defined in Article 41, Section 3.R of the to the size of office where these PTFs work. These maximiza- National Agreement), the senior part-time flexible shall be tion provisions are in addition to the requirement to promote converted to full-time carrier status. PTFs to full-time status in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Re: Full-time Regular Opportuni- This criteria shall be applied to postal installations with 125 ties – City Letter Carrier Craft, found on pages 159-162 of the or more man years of employment. National Agreement. For an explanation of this MOU, please It is further understood that part-time flexibles converted to see Director of City Delivery Chris Jackson’s article in the Oc- full-time under this criteria will have flexible reporting times, tober 2017 edition of The Postal Record. flexible nonscheduled days, and flexible reporting locations Article 7, Section 3.C states: within the installation depending upon operational require- ments as established on the preceding Wednesday. A part-time flexible employee working eight (8) hours within ten (10), on the same five (5) days each week and the same The parties will implement this in accordance with their past assignment over a six-month period will demonstrate the practice. need for converting the assignment to a full-time position. The July 2014 JCAM explains the application of this MOU This provision applies to all offices, regardless of size. It re- on page 7-40: quires the establishment of an additional full-time position if This specific maximization obligation is similar to that of the qualifying conditions are met. Article 7.3.C, because it is triggered by a PTF carrier working The July 2014 JCAM provides the following explanation of a relatively regular schedule over a six-month period. How- this provision on page 7-37: ever, where Article 7.3.C requires work on the same assign- ment, this memorandum requires only that the PTF carrier Demonstration of Regular Schedule and Assignment. A PTF carri- be performing letter carrier duties of any kind. er working a regular schedule meeting the criteria of Article 7.3.C on the same assignment for six months demonstrates the need It is important to note that this full-time flexible maximiza- to convert the duties to a full-time assignment. The six months tion provision applies only to offices of 125 workyears or more. must be continuous (Step 4, H7N-3W-C 27937, April 14, 1992, If shop stewards and NALC representatives believe that a M-01069). Time spent on approved paid leave does not consti- PTF may have met the criteria of either of the maximization tute an interruption of the six-month period, except where the provisions explained above, they should review the TACS leave is used solely for purposes of rounding out the workweek Employee Everything Reports for PTFs to determine whether when the employee otherwise would not have worked (Step 4, they have indeed been met. If the criteria are met and man- H7N-2A-C 2275, April 13, 1989, M-00913). For the purposes of Ar- agement doesn’t take the appropriate action, a grievance ticle 7.3.C, a part-time flexible employee not working all or part of should be filed citing a violation of the appropriate provision a holiday or observed holiday (as defined in Article 11) does not explained above. constitute an interruption in the six-month period. For further assistance, please contact a branch officer or Where the Local Memorandum of Understanding provides the appropriate NBA office.

42 The Postal Record September 2020 DOHERTY & DONELON In honor of NALC’s president from 1941 SCHOLARSHIPS to 1962, the Wil- Deadline: This form must be returned to NALC Headquarters no later than December 31, 2020. liam C. Doherty Eligibility ate degree at an accredited n Doherty Scholarship awards Scholarship Fund college of recipient’s choice. will be $4,000 per year and the will again award five n Applicant must be the son, Donelon Scholarship award n Winners may accept other will be $1,000 per year. Each $4,000 scholarships to daughter or legally adopted college scholarship assis- child of a letter carrier NALC scholarship is renewable children of members tance in addition to the NALC for three consecutive years member in good standing— award. in good standing. The active, retired or deceased. thereafter providing the winner Stepchildren and grandchil- n Any change of schools maintains satisfactory grades. John T. Donelon dren are eligible if they live or course of study must be Award money will be depos- Scholarship Fund ited annually with the college. with the letter carrier in a done only with the permis- It will be credited to the win- will award one schol- regular parent‑child sion of the NALC Scholar- ner’s account to be drawn arship in honor of relationship. ship Committee. upon under the rules and Donelon, longtime n Applicant’s parent must be n A transcript of grades regulations which the college a member in good standing must be forwarded to the has established for handling NALC assistant to the of NALC for at least one year committee at the end of scholarship funds. Award president. Applicants prior to making application. each school year. money is to be used for re- must be high school quired college fees, including n Applicant must be a high n If winner suffers certified se- seniors and must rious illness, scholarship will room and board and transpor- school senior when mak- tation fees. meet all of the follow- ing application and must be held in abeyance for not submit the form provided at more than one year. n Children of NALC national ing eligibility criteria officers are not eligible. right, signed by the NALC n If unusual conditions are to be considered. member and an officer of going to require an inter- the member’s NALC branch. ruption in schooling, recipi- This form must be returned ent must state reason(s) in Scholarship Application to NALC Headquarters by writing to the Scholarship December 31, 2020. Committee and request that Date______(Please print clearly) the scholarship be held in Please send instructions as to how I can compete for a scholarship Requirements abeyance. Request(s) will be award. I am a senior in the 2020-21 school year. reviewed by the Committee r daughter r son r active I am the r r of r n All applicants must take and a decision rendered. *stepdaughter *stepson retired r *granddaughter r *grandson r deceased the Scholastic Assessment n If the NALC member is sus- Test (SAT) or the American pended by his/her local NALC letter carrier ______College Test (ACT) in either branch or enters supervision, of Branch No.______City______State______their junior or senior year. A scholarship will be canceled. copy of the official scores My name is______from the administering or- ganization must be received Terms of awards My address is______at NALC Headquarters by City______State______ZIP______midnight, March 31, 2021. n The official scholarship (Computer-generated print- judges will award one Wil- Phone No.______Signature of branch officer outs of test scores will not liam C. Doherty Scholarship be accepted.) in each of the five USPS Regions and one John T. n ______All biographical question- Donelon Scholarship. Win- Signature of NALC parent member Printed name of branch officer naires and secondary school ners are judged on the basis (or spouse if deceased) reports must be received at of secondary school records, ______NALC Headquarters by mid- personal qualifications and Last 4 digits of Social Security No. Title Date night, March 31, 2021. test scores. As in the past, This form must be returned no later than December 31, 2020, to the scholarship judges will the NALC Scholarship Committee, consist of experienced per- in care of the National Association of Letter Carriers, Regulations 100 Indiana Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20001-2144. sons in the educational field. * Stepchildren and grandchildren are eligible if they live with n Scholarship is to be used Decisions of the judges will the letter carrier in a regular parent‑child relationship. toward pursuing undergradu- be final. MDA Report

July fundraising challenge winners ope this finds everyone safe FDA; named Evrysdi, it is the third disease-modifying and doing well. Wow! July therapy approved to treat spinal muscular atrophy, the Hwas an awesome month! leading genetic cause of infant death. This medical dis- Thanks to the 37 branches that covery is because of people like you, my sisters and participated in the July challenge. brothers. You are amazing! Keep up the great work throughout Top 10 winners – July Branch the year. Our top two winners were Challenge amount New Jersey Merged Branch 38 and Pawtucket, RI Branch 55. They won 1. Branch 38, New Jersey Merged: $11,625 a Zoom call with an MDA National 2. Branch 55, Pawtucket, RI: $5,280 Christina Vela Davidson Ambassador (see below). Brothers 3. Branch 769, Cherry Hill/Haddonfield, NJ: $5,150 and sisters, you raised $51,312 in July as part of the branch chal- 4. Branch 1132, Granity City, IL: $3,517 lenge, and raised $179,360 over- 5. Branch 888, Carmel, IN: $3,250 all to support MDA! You can see the 6. Branch 56, Grand Rapids, MI: $3,150 final Branch Challenge winners in the chart to the right. 7. Branch 67, Elizabeth, NJ: $1,396 Awesome work; I continue to be so moved by your dedication to MDA’s mission. The money raised will 8. Branch 33, South Bend, IN: $1,265 help MDA continue to fund its Care Center Network, the 9. Branch 39, Indianapolis, IN: $1,150 largest network of centers providing comprehensive 10. Branch 5192, Apopka, FL: $895 care at more than 150 leading medical institutions. An- other positive note: A new drug was approved by the Remember, your fundraising pages will remain open for the rest of the year; please con- tinue to fundraise and donate at mda. donordrive.com/ event/nalc2020 to help kids and adults living with neuro- muscular diseases. On the next page are the directions to sign your branch. Need help setting up a web page or have questions on how to fundraise? Contact me via email at cdavidson@nalc. org, or MDA at nalc@ mdausa.org. Thanks again for your con- tinuous hard work to help deliver the cure. And now… Ready! Set! Go raise money for MDA in the September The MDA National Ambassadors for 2020 are Justin Moy, 19, and Tana Zwart, 34. The winning branches, New Jersey Merged Branch 38 and Pawtucket, RI Branch 55, will be able to meet with one Branch Challenge! of the ambassadors during a Zoom call. #DeliverTheCure!

44 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 July fundraising challenge winners Actions NALC branch presidents: If you’ve not done so al- ready, please set up an online campaign for your branch at mda.do- nordrive.com/event/ nalc2020 (see instruc- tions below). For checks and offline gifts received during the Branch Challenge, be sure to use the NALC Do- nation Allocation Card at right and mail donations to: MDA, 161 N. Clark St., Suite 3550, Chicago, IL 60601. Please send cop- ies to NALC Headquarters as well.

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 45 Staff Reports

Get prepared for hurricane season ith so much to worry about, ter per person per day for at least three days hat a long, strange year it’s I hate to add another item to • Food—at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food been. As the United States Wyour list, but it is that time of • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and an NOAA Wstumbled to respond to the year. We must be ready to deal with weather radio with tone alert coronavirus pandemic, federal agen- hurricanes, floods and tornadoes. The • Flashlight cies scrambled to adapt to shelter- 2020 Atlantic hurricane season has • First-aid kit in-place orders. The once-bustling started off at a rapid pace and has the • Extra batteries streets in Washington, DC, went si- potential to be one of the busiest on re- • Whistle to signal for help lent as thousands of federal workers stopped commuting and were forced cord. The National Oceanic and Atmo- • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air to work from home. spheric Administration (NOAA) has re- • Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place Due to a history of telework, claims Assistant to the President ported that the 2020 hurricane season • Moist wipes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal examiners working for the Office of for Community Services could be “extremely active.” NOAA is sanitation Christina Vela Davidson Workers’ Compensation Programs now predicting up to 24 named storms, • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities (OWCP) were more adaptable than including 12 total hurricanes and five • Manual can opener for food other federal workers. Claims pro- major hurricanes—each figure about double that of a normal • Local maps cessing has generally continued at a normal pace. season. If the forecast proves accurate, 2020 would be the • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery However, when the pandemic hit in March, OWCP was second-most active Atlantic hurricane season on record. You may also want to add these additional emergency sup- in the midst of changing the contractor that processes Sisters and brothers, hurricane season is here, and it is hit- plies to your kit based on your individual needs: medical billing and authorizations, causing a cavalcade ting the Atlantic and Pacific. Also, derecho winds storms are of problems. hitting throughout the Midwest. As I stated in my June article, • Prescription medications having a plan can reduce anxiety and save lives and property. • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, Contracting out federal work has been a goal of anti-gov- ernment activists for decades. The popular claim that the Be ready to evacuate your home, and know how to treat ba- anti-diarrhea medication, etc. • Glasses and contact lens solution competition inherent in the private sector is vastly more sic medical problems. Make sure you have the proper insur- efficient than the federal government has been on bril- • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and rash cream ance covering your home and items within, including specific liant display (not!) over the last six months. Just-in-time types of coverage such as • Pet food and extra water for your pet supply chains that have kept Americans awash in cheap flood/flood content. • Cash or travelers’ checks foreign goods have been swamped by the rapid spread of • Important documents such as copies of insurance poli- The below informa- the coronavirus. cies, identification and bank records tion can help you build With a reduced federal footprint, a lack of leadership • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person an emergency supply kit. at the highest levels of government and decades of send- • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your cli- Make sure your emergency ing our manufacturing overseas, the pandemic created a mate, and sturdy shoes kit is stocked with the items frantic search for essential medical supplies when states • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to on the checklist below and were forced to bid against each other for sparse, mostly disinfect water anything else you deem foreign-made goods. When and if the smoke ever clears • Fire extinguisher necessary. As you pre- from this wildfire of frantic government spending, we may pare, consider any special • Matches in a waterproof container well learn a valuable lesson about the need for a robust needs, including mobility, • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items federal presence in the marketplace. In the middle of all of this, in April, OWCP rolled out disability and medical is- • Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and utensils a change of contractors for billing and medical authori- sues. It also is important • Paper and pencils • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children zation. The transition has been less than smooth. Clinics to have plans for commu- that had mastered OWCP billing procedures struggled to nication, vital records, each Store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire kit in re-register with the new contractor, CNSI, delaying reim- family member and pets. one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as a plastic bin or a bursement and angering many. Clinic billing departments After a disaster, you may duffel bag. Maintain your kit and store it in a cool, dry place. spent hours on hold waiting to talk to anyone who could need to survive on your As disasters come and go, you may want to re-think and help them. Doctors who had been treating injured federal own for several days. Being update your kit to meet your family’s needs. Natural or hu- workers for years considered dropping OWCP cases alto- prepared means having 72 man-made disasters cause emotional distress. Recovery can gether. hours’ worth of food, water take time. Brothers and sisters, stay connected to your fam- NALC reached out to OWCP to offer help to doctors strug- and other crucial supplies. ily and friends during this period. gling to navigate the new system. OWCP eventually respond- A basic emergency supply If you are affected by a natural disaster; please contact ed with an email address where doctors can seek help for kit could include the follow- the NALC Disaster Relief Foundation at 100 Indiana Ave. NW, billing problems: [email protected]. ing recommended items: Washington, DC 20001-2144 or DisasterReliefFoundation@ Five months later, while some of the problems have • Water—a gallon of wa- nalc.org, or visit the website nalc.org/disaster. been fixed, the system continues to have glitches. Claim-

46 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Staff Reports

OWCP changes and the pandemic ter per person per day for at least three days hat a long, strange year it’s ants should direct their doctors to the CNSI outreach • Food—at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food been. As the United States email address for help in navigating the system. • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and an NOAA Wstumbled to respond to the Problems with CNSI also have affected OWCP approv- weather radio with tone alert coronavirus pandemic, federal agen- al for medical procedures. Some injured workers had • Flashlight cies scrambled to adapt to shelter- medical procedures approved and scheduled prior to • First-aid kit in-place orders. The once-bustling the pandemic. When medical facilities shut down, those • Extra batteries streets in Washington, DC, went si- procedures were canceled, and doctors were required to • Whistle to signal for help lent as thousands of federal workers resubmit for medical authorizations with the new contrac- stopped commuting and were forced • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air tor. Some workers continue to wait for approval of medi- to work from home. cal procedures. • Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place Due to a history of telework, claims Part of the problem is that the previous contractor al- • Moist wipes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal Assistant to the President examiners working for the Office of lowed doctors to fax medical authorization requests. The sanitation for Workers’ Compensation Workers’ Compensation Programs new contractor requires that medical authorization re- • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities Kevin Card (OWCP) were more adaptable than quests be emailed. Doctors who had previously faxed in • Manual can opener for food other federal workers. Claims pro- requests need to resubmit the requests via email. • Local maps cessing has generally continued at a normal pace. • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery In another disturbing development, the mailing address However, when the pandemic hit in March, OWCP was for OWCP has changed twice over the last few months, in the midst of changing the contractor that processes You may also want to add these additional emergency sup- creating more headaches for claimants and doctors. A medical billing and authorizations, causing a cavalcade plies to your kit based on your individual needs: couple of months ago, the longtime contractor that re- “The women’s movement and the of problems. • Prescription medications ceived and scanned claim documents in London, KY, was labor movement are facing some of the • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, Contracting out federal work has been a goal of anti-gov- being phased to a new location in San Antonio, TX. anti-diarrhea medication, etc. ernment activists for decades. The popular claim that the Newer claim documents had the San Antonio address, biggest challenges in our history.” • Glasses and contact lens solution competition inherent in the private sector is vastly more and claimants were instructed to send documents and efficient than the federal government has been on bril- • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and rash cream appeals there. Then suddenly, for some unknown reason, liant display (not!) over the last six months. Just-in-time OWCP ditched the San Antonio address and went to two • Pet food and extra water for your pet supply chains that have kept Americans awash in cheap new addresses in London, KY. • Cash or travelers’ checks foreign goods have been swamped by the rapid spread of This can be a huge problem for claimants mailing ap- • Important documents such as copies of insurance poli- the coronavirus. peals to OWCP. The date an appeal is accepted is not cies, identification and bank records With a reduced federal footprint, a lack of leadership the date it is received—it’s the date the documents get • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person at the highest levels of government and decades of send- scanned by the contractor. Mail bouncing from Texas to • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your cli- ing our manufacturing overseas, the pandemic created a Kentucky could cause appeals to be considered untimely. “It is important that injured work- mate, and sturdy shoes frantic search for essential medical supplies when states If you have an appeal that was considered untimely • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to were forced to bid against each other for sparse, mostly due to the sudden address change, contact your nation- ers closely monitor what the Postal disinfect water foreign-made goods. When and if the smoke ever clears al business agent’s office so that NALC can investigate Service does in every claim.” • Fire extinguisher from this wildfire of frantic government spending, we may the claim. • Matches in a waterproof container well learn a valuable lesson about the need for a robust As letter carriers, we like to use the mail. Due to the cur- • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items federal presence in the marketplace. rent problems with OWCP’s mailing addresses, claimants In the middle of all of this, in April, OWCP rolled out • Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and utensils should use ECOMP, OWCP’s web portal, to upload appeals a change of contractors for billing and medical authori- • Paper and pencils and other documents. Instructions on how to use ECOMP zation. The transition has been less than smooth. Clinics • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children can be found on the “Injured on the Job” page at nalc.org. that had mastered OWCP billing procedures struggled to If you must use the mail, use OWCP’s new mailing ad- Store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire kit in re-register with the new contractor, CNSI, delaying reim- dresses. one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as a plastic bin or a bursement and angering many. Clinic billing departments Appeals and general correspondence should be sent duffel bag. Maintain your kit and store it in a cool, dry place. spent hours on hold waiting to talk to anyone who could to: U.S. Department of Labor, OWCP/DFEC, P.O. Box 8311, help them. Doctors who had been treating injured federal As disasters come and go, you may want to re-think and London, KY 40742-8311. workers for years considered dropping OWCP cases alto- update your kit to meet your family’s needs. Natural or hu- Medical bills and claimant reimbursements should be gether. man-made disasters cause emotional distress. Recovery can sent to: U.S. Department of Labor, OWCP/DFEC, P.O. Box take time. Brothers and sisters, stay connected to your fam- NALC reached out to OWCP to offer help to doctors strug- gling to navigate the new system. OWCP eventually respond- 8300, London, KY 40742-8300. ily and friends during this period. We should expect federal agencies to do better and If you are affected by a natural disaster; please contact ed with an email address where doctors can seek help for billing problems: [email protected]. be model servants of the people. As this pandemic has the NALC Disaster Relief Foundation at 100 Indiana Ave. NW, shown us, investment in private-sector interests over Washington, DC 20001-2144 or DisasterReliefFoundation@ Five months later, while some of the problems have public-sector agencies can have deadly consequences. nalc.org, or visit the website nalc.org/disaster. been fixed, the system continues to have glitches. Claim- Injured workers deserve better.

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 47 Annuity Estimates

Monthly CSRS annuity payments Monthly FERS annuity payments for letter carriers who retire on Dec. 1, 2020 for letter carriers who retire on Dec. 1, 2020 he table below provides monthly basic annuity, survivor ages, which are based on the basic pay earned by full-time he Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) covers reduction and reduced annuity amount estimates for let- Step O carriers and vary by length of postal/federal/mili- federal and postal employees hired on or after Jan. 1, Tter carriers covered by the Civil Service Retirement System tary service. T1984. FERS employees earn retirement benefits from (CSRS) who plan to take optional retirement on Dec. 1, 2020. Reduced annuity amounts reflect the difference between three sources: the FERS Basic Annuity, Social Security and Estimates are computed by using the given high-3 aver- the given basic annuity and survivor reduction figures. the Thrift Savings Plan. An additional Special Annuity Supplement is paid to FERS 1 1 annuitants who retire at Minimum Retirement Age (MRA) plus CC Grade 1 / High-3 Average : $64,053 CC Grade 2 / High-3 Average : $ 65,384 30 years or more, or at age 60 plus 20 years or more. It is ap- proximately calculated by taking an individual’s Social Security Years of Basic Max. Survivor Max. Survivor Basic Max. Survivor Max. Survivor age 62 benefit estimate, multiplied by the number of years of Service2 Annuity Deduction3 Reduced Annuity4 Annuity Deduction3 Reduced Annuity4 Clip and save—may not be printed every month. Always available at nalc.org. 20 $1,935 $171 $1,764 $1,975 $175 $1,800 21 2,042 182 1,860 2,084 186 1,898 22 2,148 192 1,956 2,193 197 1,996 23 2,255 203 2,052 2,302 208 2,094 24 2,362 214 2,148 2,411 219 2,192 25 2,469 224 2,244 2,520 229 2,290 26 2,575 235 2,340 2,629 240 2,389 27 2,682 246 2,436 2,738 251 2,487 28 2,789 256 2,533 2,847 262 2,585 29 2,896 267 2,629 2,956 273 2,683 30 3,002 278 2,725 3,065 284 2,781 31 3,109 288 2,821 3,174 295 2,879 32 3,216 299 2,917 3,283 306 2,977 33 3,323 310 3,013 3,392 317 3,075 34 3,429 320 3,109 3,501 328 3,173 35 3,536 331 3,205 3,610 338 3,271 36 3,643 342 3,301 3,719 349 3,369 37 3,750 352 3,397 3,828 360 3,467 38 3,857 363 3,493 3,937 371 3,565 39 3,963 374 3,589 4,046 382 3,664 40 4,070 385 3,686 4,155 393 3,762 41 4,177 395 3,782 4,264 404 3,860 41+11 months & over5 4,270 405 3,866 4,359 413 3,946

1. High-3 averages for both grades (formerly levels) are for carriers who have worked full-time on a continuous basis between Dec. 1, 2017, and Nov. 30, 2020, at Step O (formerly Step 12). 2. Years of service includes any unused sick leave. 3. The reduction for a survivor’s annuity is the amount necessary to provide maximum benefits (55% of basic annuity) to a surviving spouse. 4. If covered by the NALC Health Benefit Plan, a further deduction of either $473.01 per month if for self plus one (code 323), $408.94 if for self and family (code 322), or $196.82 if for self only (code 321) will be made. In addition, premiums for any coverage under the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program will reduce the net annuity further. 5. Under FERS rules, there is no maxiumum allowable yearly annuity. However, given the FERS formula of 1% per year, it is highly unlikely that any FERS employee will ever exceed the 80% maximum limit under CSRS. 6. FERS employees who retire at age 62 or later with at least 20 years of service receive an additional 10% - their annuities are calculated at 1.1% times years of service times high-three average salary.

48 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 - 49 4 75 75 77 79 79 30 716 373 814 912 765 765 618 618 324 324 569 569 520 520 667 667 863 863 962 962 9.04 9.04 1,1 $981 1, 1,471 1, 1, 1,2 1, 1, 1,128 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1,0 1, 1,422 1, 1,226 4 , 2017, and Nov. and Nov. , 2017, $1,0 ax. Survivor : $65,384 1 M R The Postal Record

Annuity educed 3

5 5 5 7 3 3 2 9 9 31 12 74 74 91 18 36 96 1 114 1 1 15 12 147 18 158 1 16 2 142 2 16 120 1 180 20 20 5.4 $10 eduction ax. Survivor D M September September 2020

5 9 17 17 53 53 79 79 70 70 99 99 90 744 744 635 635 853 853 526 526 907 907 362 362 798 798 580 308 962 962 689 689 1,4 1,471 1, 1,144 1,1 1,2 1, 1, 1, 2,12 1, 2,1 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, Basic 2,016 1, 54.4 2,0

$1,0 Annuity C The table below provides monthly basic annuity, survivor annuity, basic monthly provides below The table

4

Average 2/High-3 Grade C given basic annuity and survivor reduction figures. reduction and survivor annuity basic given FERS coverage, divided by 40. It is payable to age 62 and then 62 age to payable is It 40. by divided coverage, FERS 62. age at beginning payable are benefits Security Social ends. car letter for estimates amount annuity deduction and net 2020. 1, Dec. on retirement optional take to plan who riers averages, high-3 the given using by computed are Estimates O Step full-time by earned pay basic the on based are which service. postal/military/federal of length by vary and carriers the between difference the reflect amounts annuity Reduced -

1 1 7 3 9 9 97 97 49 49 .04 .04 777 537 537 345 345 874 585 585 633 633 681 729 729 393 393 922 922 826 826 $96 1,15 1, 1, 1,105 1,44 1, 1, 1, 1, 1,201 1, 1,05 1, 1, 1,2 1, 1,2 1, 1,48 1,00 48 ax. Survivor M 64,053 : $64,053 1 R

Annuity educed 3

7 7 7 3 3 9 71 14 33 33 97 97 76 76 34 39 92 92 1 11 112 155 1 181 1 1 12 18 165 1 2 144 1 14 128 160 20 208 5. $10 ax. Survivor Deduction M

1 1 2 74 74 35 95 28 asic 761 761 815 975 975 334 334 655 601 548 708 708 922 922 388 868 B 1,12 1,1 1, 1, 1,44 1, 1,

2,1 1,281 1, 1, 1, 1,4 1, 1, 1, 5 1,228 1, 2,0 2,08 Annuity $1,068

C

2 3.38

5

he Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) covers covers (FERS) System Retirement Employees he Federal or after Jan. 1, on hired employees and postal federal from benefits retirement earn employees FERS 1984. If covered by the NALC Health Benefit Plan, a further deduction of either $473.01 per month if for self plus one (code 323), $408.94 if for self and for self if $408.94 323), one (code plus for self per month if further a either $473.01 Plan, deduction of Benefit Health the NALC by covered If 35 36 37 38 39 40 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 21 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 20 2. Years of service includes any unused sick leave. sick unused any includes service of Years 2. spouse. surviving to a annuity) basic benefits (50% of maximum provide to necessary the amount is annuity survivor’s for The reduction 3. 4. FERS any that unlikely highly is it year, 1% per of formula the FERS given However, annuity. yearly allowable no maxiumum is there rules, 5. Under FERS 1.1% times at calculated are 10% - their annuities an additional receive service of years 20 least at with or later 62 age at who retire employees FERS 6. 1. High-three averages for both grades (formerly levels) are for carriers who have worked full-time on a continuous basis between Dec. 1 Dec. between basis on a continuous full-time worked who have carriers for are levels) (formerly both grades for 1. averages High-three C Grade 1 / High-3 Average An additional Special Annuity Supplement is paid to FERS to paid is Supplement Annuity Special An additional year at Step O (formerly Step 12). Step O (formerly Step at 2020, 30, Life Group Employees’ the Federal under coverage any for premiums In addition, be made. will 321) (code only self for if 322), or $196.82 (code family further. annuity the net reduce will Program Insurance CSRS. under limit the 80% maximum exceed ever will employee salary. average high-three times service of years

Each additional additional Each

Years of Years Service Monthly FERS annuity payments annuity FERS Monthly 1, 2020 Dec. on who retire carriers letter for T three sources: the FERS Basic Annuity, Social Security and Security Social Annuity, Basic the FERS sources: three Plan. Savings the Thrift plus (MRA) Age Retirement Minimum at who retire annuitants ap is It or more. years 20 60 plus age or at or more, years 30 proximately calculated by taking an individual’s Social Security Social an individual’s taking by calculated proximately of years the number of by multiplied estimate, benefit 62 age

Clip and save—may not be printed every month. Always available at nalc.org. September 2020 2020 September Honor Roll

NALC recognizes its brothers and sisters for their long-term membership NALC members who have completed 50 years of membership in branch requests for lapel pins. Accordingly, the secre- NALC are awarded a Life Membership Gold Card that entitles them tary-treasurer’s office can only provide suitable lapel to all privileges of membership in pins “when receiving proper notification by the Branch NALC without payment of dues. To Secretary” in the year when a member is to complete receive a gold card and 50-year la- the following number of years as a member: 25 years, pel pin, the branch secretary must 30 years, 35 years, 40 years, 45 years, 50 years, 55 write to the NALC secretary-treasur- years, 60 years and 65 years. Special plaques are er and request the award for the available for members who complete 70 years and 75 years. This is member. This is in accordance with also per Article 2 of the NALC Constitution. Article 2, Section 5 (a) of the NALC All requests must come from the branch secretary. Longtime mem- Constitution. bers are encouraged to inform their branches when they reach a lon- Additionally, the national secretary-treasurer’s office handles gevity benchmark. Below is a list of those NALC members who have received an award in the past month: Philip L. Holloway Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Frank P. Chiechi Jamaica, NY Br. 562 75-year pins William A. Mathews Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Enrique Cruz Jamaica, NY Br. 562 George R. Douglas Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Bobby D. Moore Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Albert P. Delbalso Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Lewis H. Robinson Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Ronnie E. Palmer Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 R. S. Gelston Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Clarence F. Hoover Winchester, VA Br. 694 Donald L. Tedder Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Edward G. Lauer Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Conrad M. Thompson Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Clarence Lewis Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Joseph W. O’Boyle Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 J. J. Loftus Jamaica, NY Br. 562 70-year pins Chester D. Eklund Austin, TX Br. 181 Donald J. Maher Jamaica, NY Br. 562 R. M. Crawford Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Thomas S. Assaid Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Samuel J. McKnight Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Edmund F. Aniszewski Dunkirk, NY Br. 150 Robert F. Pederson Beloit, WI Br. 715 Chas G. Picuillo Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Robert J. Blatnik Cleveland, OH Br. 40 Raymond Salerno Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Harry F. Spagnola Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 55-year pins and gold cards A. Vicari Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Cecil B. Picard Clarksville, TN Br. 364 Dominick L. Dennis Springfield, OH Br. 45 Jesus Torres El Paso, TX Br. 505 Bruce E. Sluss Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Ronald L. Hays Springfield, OH Br. 45 Clifford R. Fehdrau Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Gary R. Hebble Springfield, OH Br. 45 Edward J. Preston San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Edgar L. Mercer Springfield, OH Br. 45 65-year pins Wallace A. Woo San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Jerry L. Schuyler Springfield, OH Br. 45 Richard L. Pinder New Castle, DE Br. 4015 Jeff D. Morhardt Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Rodger D. Whitman Springfield, OH Br. 45 James S. Hunt Tampa, FL Br. 599 George E. Rathbun Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Charles E. Campbell Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Robert E. Weller Joliet, IL Br. 305 Eugene S. Russo Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Billy R. Hitt Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Robert E. Layman Fort Wayne, IN Br. 116 Robert M. Silva Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 John H. Minter Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Glen M. Carlton Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Steve Trinks Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Delmer J. Siemens Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Alfred J. Litherland Mid-Michigan Br. 256 John E. Bednash New Castle, DE Br. 4015 Francis J. Petrella Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Robert M. Summerfield Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Myron M. Stern Tampa, FL Br. 599 James E. Tennis Souderton, PA Br. 920 Rodman J. Geisler South Jersey, NJ Br. 908 Ernest C. Goins Macon, GA Br. 270 Sebastian B. Brown Sumter, SC Br. 904 Ronald E. Feria Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Earnest L. Troutman Macon, GA Br. 270 Michael E. Mixon Sumter, SC Br. 904 Donald E. Moberly Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 Donald A. Gunn Joliet, IL Br. 305 James C. White Sumter, SC Br. 904 Samuel J. Bisulca Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Anthony E. Lorenzo Joliet, IL Br. 305 Maynard Justra Yankton, SD Br. 659 Leonard J. Gryskewicz Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 John L. Malnar Joliet, IL Br. 305 David Lambdin Knoxville, TN Br. 419 Allen E. Ruff Joliet, IL Br. 305 Robert T. Force Cleburne, TX Br. 752 Andrew W. Verchimak Joliet, IL Br. 305 John W. Miller Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 60-year pins John K. Schlorff Champaign, IL Br. 671 Patrick F. Mirto Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Roger A. Cross Fort Wayne, IN Br. 116 Ernest S. Stanco Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Dan Jones Fort Wayne, IN Br. 116 5o-year pins and gold cards Edward J. Wall Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 David P. Grammer Evansville, IN Br. 377 D. W. Radcliffe Jr. Mobile, AL Br. 469 Charles R. Everidge Tampa, FL Br. 599 Ray A. Smith Evansville, IN Br. 377 Grover A. Reynolds Mobile, AL Br. 469 William E. Price Macon, GA Br. 270 Eugene L. Eldridge Kansas City, KS Br. 499 Nashid A. Rushdan Mobile, AL Br. 469 Thomas S. Tate Macon, GA Br. 270 Martin Ibarra Kansas City, KS Br. 499 Earl Safford Mobile, AL Br. 469 William A. Comstock Central Iowa Mgd. Br. 352 Robert D. Johnson Jr. Kansas City, KS Br. 499 Ronny G. Shaw Mobile, AL Br. 469 Robert E. Gerdom Fort Wayne, IN Br. 116 R. R. Kistler Kansas City, KS Br. 499 George W. Sherrin III Mobile, AL Br. 469 Glen L. Gorrell Fort Wayne, IN Br. 116 Roy J. Mills Kansas City, KS Br. 499 G. A. Smith Mobile, AL Br. 469 Leonard E. Mauzy Fort Wayne, IN Br. 116 Francis L. Moore Kansas City, KS Br. 499 Roger G. Stephenson Mobile, AL Br. 469 Jimmy E. Ferguson Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 James K. Orcutt Kansas City, KS Br. 499 Kenneth H. Tyson Jr. Mobile, AL Br. 469 Vincent J. Ferrie Jr. Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Robert J. Brankline Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Jerry L. Walker Mobile, AL Br. 469 W. W. Reid Boston, MA Br. 34 Farnell G. Lafleur Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Charles Walters Jr. Mobile, AL Br. 469 Charles F. Simard Boston, MA Br. 34 Joseph C. Richard Jr. Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Josephine L. Warner Mobile, AL Br. 469 Eugene F. Muise Lynn, MA Br. 7 Alvin R. Sebring Jr. Boston, MA Br. 34 Alfred F. Williams Mobile, AL Br. 469 Merlan C. Banks Annapolis, MD Br. 651 John H. Hajec Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Ralph V. Escalante Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Wendal V. Delong Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Melville N. Mick Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Ronald D. Evans Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Robert C. Wilson Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Carlton A. Flynn Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Leo T. Fedewa Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Charles E. Finley Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Florence G. Gordon Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 James W. Griffith Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Walter A. Masson Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Lester W. Kitchen Jr. Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Charles B. Knox Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Louie L. Moyer Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 David L. McKinney Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Charles A. Loven Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Norman A. Stetz Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Howard L. Osborn Jr. Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Daniel G. Lujan Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Stephen M. Zacharias Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Hallie G. Holland Columbia, MO Br. 763 James G. McKee Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Francis A. Talbot St. Joseph, MO Br. 195 Harry R. Jacob New Jersey Mgd. Br. 38 King D. Putman Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Harry R. Jacob New Jersey Mgd. Br. 38 Alfred J. Capaldi South Jersey, NJ Br. 908 W. H. Quinlan Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Stephen J. Gismondi Long Island City, NY Br. 357 Wayne L. Kline South Jersey, NJ Br. 908 Richard S. Sanford Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 William A. Holzer Northeastern NY Br. 358 R. W. Zurlo South Jersey, NJ Br. 908 Larry D. Scott Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 William F. Back Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Russell R. Brown Albany, NY Br. 29 Edward L. Stuler Jr. Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Nick J. Losurdo Long Island Mgd., NY Br. 6000 F. E. Brucker Northeastern NY Br. 358 Richard T. Tomlin Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 Thomas E. Bunyard Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 William A. Holzer Northeastern NY Br. 358 Connie H. White Bakersfield, CA Br. 782 John L. Daniels Oklahoma City, OK Br. 458 William F. Back Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Joseph R. Alva San Francisco, CA Br. 214

50 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Below is a list of those NALC members who have received an award in the past month: Jaime F. Arancibia San Francisco, CA Br. 214 David L. Vanpeursem Sioux City, IA Br. 69 Lynn A. Johnson Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Lawrence L. Blunt Jr. San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Harold B. Vermeer Sioux City, IA Br. 69 Elizabeth L. Lemuel Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Robert H. Boggs San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Paul I. Monk Central Iowa Mgd. Br. 352 Richard R. Nyquist Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Erwin F. Bruner San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Russell C. Possehn Central Iowa Mgd. Br. 352 Curtis A. Smith Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Mario C. Carrillo San Francisco, CA Br. 214 John H. Prim Central Iowa Mgd. Br. 352 Donald N. Swinson Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Raymond S. Chin San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Delbert R. Turner Central Iowa Mgd. Br. 352 Mary V. Barton Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Michael R. Cropper San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Ronal J. Van Pelt Central Iowa Mgd. Br. 352 David M. Cyrek Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Gary L. Dassel San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Thomas N. Maher Shenandoah, IA Br. 851 Terry E. Germany Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Peter H. Deutsch San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Franklin A. Miller Shenandoah, IA Br. 851 Dennis L. Grundy Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Kevin J. Duggan San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Roger L. Bates Galesburg, IL Br. 88 David P. Marshall Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Robert J. Fey San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Donald P. Billiet Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Edward R. Melkonian Western Wayne Co., MI Br. 2184 Eddie T. Fong San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Raymond R. Boos Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Cecil E. Dyke Kansas City, MO Br. 30 Ola M. Gipson San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Michael W. Conard Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Wesley H. Bland St. Joseph, MO Br. 195 Thomas J. Goodier San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Cleverette G. Conley Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Earl F. Adams Columbia, MO Br. 763 Michael W. Hackett San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Donald W. Derry Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Gary H. Blackmore Columbia, MO Br. 763 Mark V. Hamilton San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Robert A. Donaldson Galesburg, IL Br. 88 James S. Burks Columbia, MO Br. 763 Freeman Harris San Francisco, CA Br. 214 David Duke Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Joseph A. Burks Columbia, MO Br. 763 Sarah C. Henderson San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Lyle V. Johnson Galesburg, IL Br. 88 William R. Clayborne Columbia, MO Br. 763 Peter N. Hensel San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Arlo K. Murray Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Ralph J. Cox Columbia, MO Br. 763 Albert P. Hettich San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Frank Nyert Jr. Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Martin L. Ettner Columbia, MO Br. 763 Kuo S. Hong San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Donald E. Reynolds Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Darwin F. George Columbia, MO Br. 763 Allen Jew Jr. San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Ronald L. Saey Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Larry C. Harper Columbia, MO Br. 763 Carl A. Jonkers San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Robert A. Snider Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Robert L. Hunt Jr. Columbia, MO Br. 763 Frederick R. Kromm San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Larry R. Stotts Galesburg, IL Br. 88 Larry J. Nichols Columbia, MO Br. 763 Harry S. Lee San Francisco, CA Br. 214 John R. Connell Rockford, IL Br. 245 Donald E. Rhoades Columbia, MO Br. 763 Philip L. Lee San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Mark A. Ayers Rockford, IL Br. 245 Robert L. Rouse Columbia, MO Br. 763 Hugh D. Lopez San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Robert J. Defreitas Joliet, IL Br. 305 James E. Starns Columbia, MO Br. 763 Dennis L. Murphy San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Joseph D. Alton Sr. Macomb, IL Br. 658 James P. Struble Columbia, MO Br. 763 Simplicio J. Nario San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Larry L. Carey Macomb, IL Br. 658 Claude W. Weldon Jr. Columbia, MO Br. 763 Marilyn O’Donnell Valencia San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Robert W. Doyle Macomb, IL Br. 658 John H. Williams Columbia, MO Br. 763 Laird J. Pearson San Francisco, CA Br. 214 T. J. Barham Champaign, IL Br. 671 Harold W. Knoop Columbus, MS Br. 1692 Noble C. Phillips San Francisco, CA Br. 214 E. E. Anderson Champaign, IL Br. 671 Michael S. Boland Great Falls, MT Br. 650 Floyd R. Piper San Francisco, CA Br. 214 David C. Hoffschneider Champaign, IL Br. 671 Maynard S. Clark Great Falls, MT Br. 650 Laron L. Plouche San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Allison B. Wallis Jr. Granite City, IL Br. 1132 Jack L. McFetridge Great Falls, MT Br. 650 John V. Rossi San Francisco, CA Br. 214 John W. Baumann S. Suburban Mgd., IL Br. 4016 Dan A. Mitchell Great Falls, MT Br. 650 Steven N. Saris San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Daniel P. Colonnelli S. Suburban Mgd., IL Br. 4016 Ted L. Short Great Falls, MT Br. 650 Cornelius L. Seibert Jr. San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Thomas M. Herr Fort Wayne, IN Br. 116 Michael J. Winters Great Falls, MT Br. 650 David W. Sutter San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Jerry F. Colby Frankfort, IN Br. 368 Donald A. Bauer New Jersey Mgd. Br. 38 William P. Thornton San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Charles W. Sandefur Jr. Evansville, IN Br. 377 Harry R. Jacob New Jersey Mgd. Br. 38 Preston Tiddle San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Donald F. Cornwell Bowling Green, KY Br. 468 Norman Miles New Jersey Mgd. Br. 38 Robert Watkins San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Rollin L. Dickson Bowling Green, KY Br. 468 Anthony R. Quadrel New Jersey Mgd. Br. 38 Paul H. Webb San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Harold E. Hulshart Bowling Green, KY Br. 468 David J. Britton Princeton, NJ Br. 268 Evan M. Wilson San Francisco, CA Br. 214 Robert D. Lyon Bowling Green, KY Br. 468 Don N. Deluca Princeton, NJ Br. 268 Michael W. Carter Santa Ana, CA Br. 737 David B. Stamps Bowling Green, KY Br. 468 Gilbert I. Fisher Princeton, NJ Br. 268 Raymond G. Drasky Denver, CO Br. 47 Bruce A. Trabue Bowling Green, KY Br. 468 M. V. Guido Jr. Princeton, NJ Br. 268 C. W. Walker Denver, CO Br. 47 Lawrence S. Brown Greensburg, IN Br. 801 George V. Heath Princeton, NJ Br. 268 Douglas G. Buffa Grand Junction, CO Br. 913 Anthony Armentor Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 John M. Leiggi Princeton, NJ Br. 268 Dean A. Despalmes Grand Junction, CO Br. 913 Joseph C. Banken Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 J. Procaccini Princeton, NJ Br. 268 Wayne Foster Grand Junction, CO Br. 913 James A. Beaugh Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Cosmo D. Tamasi Princeton, NJ Br. 268 Fred O. Hayes Grand Junction, CO Br. 913 Robert F. Broussard Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 William M. Crowell Camden, NJ Mgd. Br. 540 Vicki A. Holley Grand Junction, CO Br. 913 Wilmer J. Broussard Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Lawrence R. Dentz Cranford, NJ Br. 754 Melvin L. Hoover Grand Junction, CO Br. 913 James A. Chauvin Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 James T. Douglas Cranford, NJ Br. 754 Raymond W. Kuhn Grand Junction, CO Br. 913 Bob D. Duplechin Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Frank D. Grace Cranford, NJ Br. 754 John Mariz Grand Junction, CO Br. 913 Charles J. Francois Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Alvin P. Mark Cranford, NJ Br. 754 Kurt E. Nelson Grand Junction, CO Br. 913 Alton Guidry Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Robert E. Muller Cranford, NJ Br. 754 John M. Bafuma Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Kenneth A. Lamb Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Edward L. Semple Jr. Cranford, NJ Br. 754 Christopher S. Begnal Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Curtis W. Lambert Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Anthony M. Carrone Somerville, NJ Br. 768 Donald M. Bergin Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Harold L. Lester Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Andrew J. Guariglia Somerville, NJ Br. 768 Michael P. Brawley Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Jerome A. Perlongo Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Douglas P. Moody Somerville, NJ Br. 768 Joseph R. Corbett Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Leon C. Regan Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 William L. Pearson Somerville, NJ Br. 768 Albert E. Denton Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Jimmie P. Renard Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Richard W. Perhach Somerville, NJ Br. 768 Richard S. Kinard Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 William E. Rodgers Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Michael G. Pinarchick Somerville, NJ Br. 768 James E. Sawyer Jr. Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Johnny D. Trahan Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Douglas L. Sloss Somerville, NJ Br. 768 Richard B. Washburn Jr. Connecticut Mgd. Br. 20 Calvin R. Vallette Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 Gloria B. Smith Somerville, NJ Br. 768 Alfred Acosta Tampa, FL Br. 599 Melvin L. Vincent Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 C. A. Adams Jr. Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Louis A. Carmon Tampa, FL Br. 599 Floyd J. Young Lake Charles, LA Br. 914 F. J. Bailey Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Robert L. Carter Tampa, FL Br. 599 James T. Balnis Norwood, MA Br. 742 Robert G. Buchner Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Richard Gomez Tampa, FL Br. 599 Frank E. Brown Norwood, MA Br. 742 Thomas J. Connelly Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Samuel W. Irwin Tampa, FL Br. 599 John M. Donnelly Norwood, MA Br. 742 Robert J. Constantine Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Clarence E. Rebman Tampa, FL Br. 599 Frank J. Fazzina Norwood, MA Br. 742 S. L. Decasien Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Richard L. Rossell Tampa, FL Br. 599 Stephen P. Francis Norwood, MA Br. 742 William J. Delaney Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Frank G. Lamberti South Florida Br. 1071 Francis X. McCarthy Norwood, MA Br. 742 Joseph F. Eagan Jr. Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Steven Tudor South Florida Br. 1071 G. M. Smith Norwood, MA Br. 742 Gary W. Fallows Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Ronnie Gary Macon, GA Br. 270 Robert L. Decaire Alpena, MI Br. 259 Patrick J. Flanagan Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Ronald C. Dieck Sioux City, IA Br. 69 William D. Freese Alpena, MI Br. 259 Nelson Gaskill Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Ronald V. Jordan Sioux City, IA Br. 69 Francis J. Kaiser Alpena, MI Br. 259 Edward M. Grassi Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 James D. Major Jr. Sioux City, IA Br. 69 Kenneth J. Fagan Escanaba, MI Br. 438 James W. Haughey Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Ronald J. Odendahl Sioux City, IA Br. 69 Michael D. Kulack Escanaba, MI Br. 438 Linda L. Higbee Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Donald D. Phipps Sioux City, IA Br. 69 Joseph L. Lafave Jr. Escanaba, MI Br. 438 Robert J. Imlay Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Kenneth E. Riessen Sioux City, IA Br. 69 Larry G. Michael Escanaba, MI Br. 438 Thomas Kuhs Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Douglas M. Rose Sioux City, IA Br. 69 Barbara D. Fluellen Mid-Michigan Br. 256 Terence A. Leary Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 51 Honor Roll

Below is a list of those NALC members who have received an award in the past month: Below is a list of those NALC members who have received an award in the past month: Joseph J. Mannion Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 John A. Cain Enid, OK Br. 858 Eulalio B. Garcia El Paso, TX Br. 505 Leonard Marmorato Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Regis L. Dahlin Enid, OK Br. 858 Ernesto Gerardo El Paso, TX Br. 505 John W. Marshall Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Lynn T. Dillingham Enid, OK Br. 858 Luis Gerardo El Paso, TX Br. 505 William R. Nunn Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Wayne C. Haun Enid, OK Br. 858 Raymundo Gomez El Paso, TX Br. 505 Ronald F. Simon Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Aaron J. Staerkel Enid, OK Br. 858 Ramon Gonzalez El Paso, TX Br. 505 Raymond R. Sobocinski Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Dale L. Dickerson Albany, OR Br. 959 Juan Guerrero El Paso, TX Br. 505 Joseph F. Tudjek Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Dorse L. Hess Albany, OR Br. 959 Martin Gutierrez El Paso, TX Br. 505 John W. Vollrath Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 Larry R. Humphrey Albany, OR Br. 959 Daniel Hernandez El Paso, TX Br. 505 George L. Williams Cape Atlantic, NJ Br. 903 William H. Leonard Albany, OR Br. 959 Manuel S. Hernandez El Paso, TX Br. 505 David A. Baker Reno, NV Br. 709 Russell L. Means Albany, OR Br. 959 David Imai Sr. El Paso, TX Br. 505 Victoria L. Johnson Sparks, NV Br. 2778 Roger J. Schaefer Albany, OR Br. 959 Robert J. Kaminski El Paso, TX Br. 505 George J. Baranski Jr. Albany, NY Br. 29 Neal A. Ziesmer Albany, OR Br. 959 Francisco Licano Jr. El Paso, TX Br. 505 David J. Cyr Albany, NY Br. 29 F. T. Arbogast Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Gabino Lomeli El Paso, TX Br. 505 Donald J. Donato Albany, NY Br. 29 Westley S. Dennis Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Andres Lucero Jr. El Paso, TX Br. 505 Neil J. Heffernan Albany, NY Br. 29 Edward J. Donkers Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Guillermo Madrid Jr. El Paso, TX Br. 505 Michael E. Stallmer Albany, NY Br. 29 Frank A. Gudac Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Severn M. Marquez El Paso, TX Br. 505 Joseph Perez Long Island City, NY Br. 357 Paul R. Guthrie Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Aldreni R. Martinez El Paso, TX Br. 505 Janice M. Velten Long Island City, NY Br. 357 Ronald Hall Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Charlie Martinez El Paso, TX Br. 505 Edward W. Haupert Northeastern NY Br. 358 G. E. Kozak Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Everardo Martinez El Paso, TX Br. 505 Peter Accardi Jr. Jamaica, NY Br. 562 James R. Matthews Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Trinidad Martinez El Paso, TX Br. 505 J. P. Albertelli Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Bennie Mitchell Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Vidal Martinez El Paso, TX Br. 505 William F. Back Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Gary D. Rockwell Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Stephen McGrew El Paso, TX Br. 505 Vincent P. Barbera Jamaica, NY Br. 562 William L. Rozzell Jr. Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Julian A. Mendoza El Paso, TX Br. 505 Charlie L. Boyd Jamaica, NY Br. 562 F. E. Rychtarsky Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Raul Mendoza El Paso, TX Br. 505 Lincoln E. Buenaventura Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Leroy W. Smith Uniontown, PA Br. 520 George Meraz El Paso, TX Br. 505 Milford E. Carter Jr. Jamaica, NY Br. 562 R. Taylor Uniontown, PA Br. 520 Carole E. Meyers El Paso, TX Br. 505 Roberto Molina El Paso, TX Br. 505 Giovanni Cortese Jamaica, NY Br. 562 A. J. Azarewicz Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Jose J. Montoya El Paso, TX Br. 505 J. G. Crennan Jamaica, NY Br. 562 R. J. Barna Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 G. B. Moreno El Paso, TX Br. 505 Harlon A. Crosby Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Joseph C. Buscemi Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Alfredo Murillo Jr. El Paso, TX Br. 505 Enrique Cruz Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Andrew Cebrick Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Robert J. Najera El Paso, TX Br. 505 Anthony E. Donaldson Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Paul Chernikovich Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Alvaro F. Olivas El Paso, TX Br. 505 R. S. Gelston Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Robert Cole Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Arturo Ontiveros El Paso, TX Br. 505 Kurt H. Jacobi Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Joseph C. Depascale Jr. Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Octaviano Ortiz El Paso, TX Br. 505 James R. Litka Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Gary M. Dougherty Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Amado D. Padilla El Paso, TX Br. 505 Vincent Marciano Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Gerald L. Fisher Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Guillermo I. Paredez El Paso, TX Br. 505 Frank D. Markisello Jr. Jamaica, NY Br. 562 John L. Foglietta Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Luis A. Pena El Paso, TX Br. 505 Frank E. Mastrochirico Jamaica, NY Br. 562 John F. Gayewski Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Rogelo D. Pena El Paso, TX Br. 505 A. C. Matranga Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Anthony C. Giardina Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Bonifc A. Portillo Jr. El Paso, TX Br. 505 Raymond J. McDonald Jr. Jamaica, NY Br. 562 James L. Gill Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Xavier Quiroz El Paso, TX Br. 505 Michal A. McKenna Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Robert J. Graver Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Raul Ramirez El Paso, TX Br. 505 Chas E. McLean Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Walter H. James Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Leopoldo Ramos El Paso, TX Br. 505 Thomas F. Moran Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Charles A. Jamiolkowski Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 John L. Reimer El Paso, TX Br. 505 Victor T. Oleaga Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Frank J. Marrone Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Pablo Rivera Jr. El Paso, TX Br. 505 Bernard J. Papocchia Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Stanley J. Nowakowski Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Alfredo Rodriguez El Paso, TX Br. 505 John P. Parinello Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Robert W. Oatridge Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Abel Saenz El Paso, TX Br. 505 Chas G. Picuillo Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Eugene J. Odell Jr. Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Arturo J. Salas El Paso, TX Br. 505 Glenn R. Pocci Jamaica, NY Br. 562 William L. Ozark Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Fernando Salas El Paso, TX Br. 505 David Rosen Jamaica, NY Br. 562 James C. Pechulis Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Roberto Serrano El Paso, TX Br. 505 Gerald F. Schiraldi Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Warren S. Peters Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Rodolfo A. Sierra El Paso, TX Br. 505 Fareed A. Shakir Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Sylvester J. Rutkoski Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Sabino Sierra El Paso, TX Br. 505 Joseph G. Spataro Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Ronald J. Seman Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Jesus P. Trujillo El Paso, TX Br. 505 Robert E. Sutton Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Thomas R. Skechus Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Robert M. Urenda El Paso, TX Br. 505 Henry J. Tortora Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Howard T. Williams Jr. Wilkes-Barre, PA Br. 115 Eloy M. Valdez El Paso, TX Br. 505 John J. Trezza Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Gary E. Engles Sumter, SC Br. 904 Roberto Valdez El Paso, TX Br. 505 A. Vicari Jamaica, NY Br. 562 William D. McLeod Sumter, SC Br. 904 Hector Valles El Paso, TX Br. 505 J. F. Vitale Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Robert H. Smith Sumter, SC Br. 904 Enrique Vejil El Paso, TX Br. 505 Gary W. Wilkes Jamaica, NY Br. 562 Donald E. Brown Warwick, RI Br. 3166 Arturo R. Veliz El Paso, TX Br. 505 Raymond E. Mills Long Island Mgd., NY Br. 6000 Paul A. Buchanan Warwick, RI Br. 3166 Ricardo J. Vidales El Paso, TX Br. 505 Martin T. Kielawa Valley Stream, NY Br. 2189 Rose M. Baker Knoxville, TN Br. 419 Victor M. Villalva El Paso, TX Br. 505 Thomas W. McManus Valley Stream, NY Br. 2189 Joyce M. Guenther Dallas, TX Br. 132 Peter H. Wallace El Paso, TX Br. 505 Kenneth J. Mittwoch Valley Stream, NY Br. 2189 Micky P. Morris Dallas, TX Br. 132 Manuel Zubia El Paso, TX Br. 505 Richard D. Roberts Valley Stream, NY Br. 2189 Fred A. Pontley Dallas, TX Br. 132 David E. Marsh Jr. Cleburne, TX Br. 752 Robert S. Radice Valley Stream, NY Br. 2189 David Archuleta El Paso, TX Br. 505 Lawrence C. Rochford Cleburne, TX Br. 752 Donald J. Lombardo Cleveland, OH Br. 40 Luis Arrieta Jr. El Paso, TX Br. 505 Steven M. Battaglia Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 Dennis C. McPhee Cleveland, OH Br. 40 Francisco Bustillos El Paso, TX Br. 505 Joseph Briggs Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 Marjorie A. Vandestadt Cleveland, OH Br. 40 Oswald D. Callahan El Paso, TX Br. 505 William H. Dickerson Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 David A. Barletto Springfield, OH Br. 45 Ricardo Caro El Paso, TX Br. 505 R. L. Giannini Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 Marguerite L. Chatfield Springfield, OH Br. 45 Gilbert Carreon El Paso, TX Br. 505 J. W. Laconia Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 Claude A. Desantis Springfield, OH Br. 45 Dora E. Carrillo El Paso, TX Br. 505 Jerry C. Massie Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 Brian L. Eanes Springfield, OH Br. 45 Manuel Castaneda El Paso, TX Br. 505 S. N. Propst Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 Stephen M. Hubek Springfield, OH Br. 45 Jose A. Castillo El Paso, TX Br. 505 Daniel L. Thomas Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 Robert H. Jones Springfield, OH Br. 45 Emedes Contreras El Paso, TX Br. 505 Steve E. Wharam Charlottesville, VA Br. 518 Robert L. Kidd Jr. Springfield, OH Br. 45 Dimas C. Diaz El Paso, TX Br. 505 Mack B. Atkins Jr. Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Antonio Laino Springfield, OH Br. 45 Hector M. Duron El Paso, TX Br. 505 Curtis G. Atkinson II Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Beverly A. Midkiff Springfield, OH Br. 45 Luis A. Estrada El Paso, TX Br. 505 Thomas A. Cutitto Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Stephen E. Pellin Springfield, OH Br. 45 Jesus Fernandez Jr. El Paso, TX Br. 505 Frederick G. Dame Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Darrel S. Strome Springfield, OH Br. 45 Gabriel Fierro El Paso, TX Br. 505 Kenneth G. Divers Roanoke, VA Br. 524 R. L. Scott Newark, OH Br. 281 Rosario Fiore El Paso, TX Br. 505 Donald Friedenson Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Joseph A. Sforza Newark, OH Br. 281 Jose G. Flores El Paso, TX Br. 505 D. L. Hall Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Harry E. Thompson Newark, OH Br. 281 Eduardo Gallegos El Paso, TX Br. 505 Roger W. Hostetter Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Alan C. Burpo Enid, OK Br. 858 Adolfo R. Garcia El Paso, TX Br. 505 Ronald E. Hubbard Roanoke, VA Br. 524

52 The Postal Record JanuarySeptember 2013 2020 September 2020 Below is a list of those NALC members who have received an award in the past month: William N. Logan Roanoke, VA Br. 524 James C. Taylor Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Raymond D. Runice Beloit, WI Br. 715 Lawrence J. Marshall Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Ernest G. Whanger Jr. Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Roger J. Detert Merrill, WI Br. 778 Donald K. Murray Roanoke, VA Br. 524 John H. Wolfe Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Norman J. Kriewald Merrill, WI Br. 778 L. R. Payne Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Gary W. Elfving Seattle, WA Br. 79 Mary J. Mahn Merrill, WI Br. 778 R. J. Peters Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Edward C. Spangler Seattle, WA Br. 79 George E. Morren Merrill, WI Br. 778 Douglas R. Schanz Roanoke, VA Br. 524 William J. Teppner Seattle, WA Br. 79 Joseph F. Suchon Antigo, WI Br. 983 Robert G. Stultz Roanoke, VA Br. 524 William F. Cook Bellingham, WA Br. 450 John L. Hartley Moundsville, WV Br. 893 D. F. Sweeney II Roanoke, VA Br. 524 Gordon E. Durkee Bellingham, WA Br. 450 Ralph A. West Moundsville, WV Br. 893 State Summaries

the new PMG, appointed by the U.S. president, But you know what? In spite of these almost- California have resulted in mail being undelivered and de- impossible demands, letter carriers continue to o yeah, we have a new postmaster general. layed, and raised an alarm that mailed ballots do their best every day. Stewards are busy filing SAnd yes, he’s given millions of dollars to will be never be counted or delivered. Delivery of grievances when these new mandates cause the president and Republican Party. And he’s mail should never be a political issue. The Ameri- contractual violations. making changes to the managerial lineup of can citizenry has always enjoyed quick and ac- You can help. Fill out your 3996s when you the USPS and hinting at reducing the number curate delivery of mail. States that primarily use think you will not be able to complete your du- of pencil-pushers through an early out. And vote-by-mail have had millions of ballots deliv- ties in eight hours. It is critical to fill out 1571s many of you now perform your duties in a differ- ered without fraud or dishonesty. All parties re- when you curtail mail and remember to get ent manner because the PMG says he wants to ceive equal treatment through the U.S. Mail. For them signed by your supervisor and get a copy. eliminate overtime. anyone to say or infer otherwise is just untrue! We can withstand this storm. Be strong and So many of you ask, “What’s the NALC doing To our members who disdain politics or think work in solidarity! about all this?” And some even claim that our that it does not affect the Postal Service, guess Tom Minshall union isn’t reacting loud enough, that we are in again. We seem to be caught in a wedge be- bed with management, etc. Some of you even tween the sitting U.S. president and those who think that the NALC has the power to stop man- want to vote safely and conveniently by U.S. Wisconsin agement from, well, managing. Remember the Mail. We know that our dedicated letter carriers he beatdown goes on in 2020. There are at- saying, “Just because it’s stupid doesn’t mean would not harm or delay voter ballots. tacks from all sides, it seems—concerning they won’t do it!” T You should donate to the Letter Carrier Po- health, legislation and operations. Through it If you want to know what the union is doing, litical Fund (off the clock and out of uniform). all, though, Wisconsin letter carriers persist in the first thing to do is look in the mirror! What Retirees can participate in the election by sup- delivering the essential services that our pa- are you doing? Do you contact your congress- porting NALC-friendly candidates. Contact me at trons expect and deserve. person and senators to ask for stimulus fund- 859-273-3791, and we can give you direction. Health concerns from the COVID-19 pandem- ing for the USPS to get us through the pandemic Any federal officials who allow the U.S. Mail ic cannot be understated. Every carrier must do and beyond when asked? Do you support your to fail in its mission to U.S. customers do not whatever is necessary to maintain good health shop steward when he or she files grievances deserve re-election or to ever hold office. Facts and to comply with the requirements for masks regarding violations stemming from the PMG’s should always be used to determine the truth. and social distancing, no matter how uncom- latest directives? Do you give to the Letter Carri- Bob McNulty fortable they seem. No one has all the answers, er Political Fund so that we can elect politicians and the virus does not care about opinions. who support our continued existence as public Legislatively, at the writing of this summary, servants working for a public Postal Service un- Michigan the Senate is bickering about stimulus funds. der collective-bargaining agreements? reetings, brothers and sisters. That is actually progress after months of inac- Fred Rolando is only one person. He cannot August is upon us and, while the weather tion after the House did its job. I’m sure that be effective in his position as president of our G is still hot, the job is changing. each of you did your best to educate our sena- great union unless the membership supports We recently received a new postmaster gen- tors on the issue of a monetary infusion to off- him. And supporting him does not mean en- eral. He initiated a new/old program called set the revenue losses for the USPS. While there gaging in conspiracy theories about how the ESAS that puts carriers in the office less and on was a good-faith effort with a bipartisan bill in- union’s supposed silence means he isn’t doing the street more. First-class mail is actually being troduced to provide some financial relief, there anything. Our national leadership does more left on the floor and being delayed until the next was no time to gather enough co-sponsors, but than you think. Remember, not one letter carrier day. This is a test, and several stations in Michi- at least the language of the bill was valuable in has been laid off, furloughed or taken a pay cut gan have been selected as test sites. furthering the discussion of the stimulus bill. during the pandemic. Remember that. Right on the heels of this program, the Great Operationally, the craft is under pressure to Eric Ellis Lakes Area vice president rolled out his own comply with a myriad of new changes designed program called…the Great Lakes Area Initiative. to promote “efficiency” in the delivery of mail. Here’s how this one works: You arrive at work in One of the changes has invoked the mortal sin Kentucky the morning, you clock in, you get your keys and of leaving first-class mail behind, which is anath- hanks again to all NALC members across the scanner, you check out your vehicle. Then you ema to most carriers. Service is all we have to Tcommonwealth who continue to “Take Action.” go to your case and case mail for 30 minutes. give. Dilution of that service is not what has built We are following the lead of President Ro- After 30 minutes you stop casing mail, grab your the USPS into the most trusted federal agency. lando to urge our two U.S. senators to include SPRs and case them in. Then you pull down and Following the failed Consolidated Casing USPS in the next stimulus package with at least hit the street. Any mail you couldn’t get cased experiment, new tests are coming online that $25 billion in relief. It is incredible that, as of in the morning you case when you get back, if change traditional carrier work. Whatever you press time for the September Postal Record, the you have time. are seeing in your office is not the end, but only Senate and White House have not bargained If those changes aren’t enough, the Postal the beginning. with the U.S. House in good faith to address the Service just put out a memo that it intends to 2020 is not the good old days. HEROES Act that was passed there. consolidate all routes down to one piece of cas- Adapt, survive and maintain solidarity! Even more troubling is the apparent actions by ing equipment. Scott A. Van Derven

JanuarySeptember 2013 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 53 Election Notices

Alexandria, Virginia Ann Arbor, Michigan will tally the votes at the November beginning Jan. 1, 2021. Candidates may and masks will be required whenever meeting, and the results shall be read. only accept nominations for one office. social distancing cannot be maintained. In accordance with Article 5 of the This will serve as official notice to all Damonique Martinez, Sec., Br. 4405 Nominations will open at the regu- Michael C. Willson, Sec., Br. 5420 NALC Constitution and bylaws, this is Branch 434 members. lar branch meeting on Sept. 15 and official notice to all members of Branch Nominations will be held at the reg- Binghamton, New York close at the regular branch meeting on Brookfield, Wisconsin 567 that nominations for the following ular branch meeting on Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. Oct. 20, held at 5300 Scottsville Road, This serves as official notice to all (This notice was previously printed offices will be held at the regular meet- at the IBEW Hall, 7920 Jackson Road, Bowling Green, at 7 p.m. Potential Branch 333 members that in accor- as Brookfield, Pennsylvania;The Postal ing on Nov. 3 at 7:30 p.m. at the Hunt- Ann Arbor. Nominations are for the fol- candidates must be present at either dance with Article 5 of the National Record apologizes for the error.) ing Creek Club party room, 2059 Hun- lowing offices: one trustee (three-year the September or October meetings or tington Ave., Alexandria: president, term, Jan. 1, 2021, through Dec. 31, Constitution and Article 7 of the branch express their intention to run for office This is a notice to all members of vice president, secretary/treasurer, 2023) and delegates to the 2021 Michi- bylaws, nominations for the follow- in writing prior to the Oct. 20 meeting. Branch 4811 that nominations for the health benefits representative, ser- gan state convention, as well as any ing local officers will be held at the Offices are open to any regular branch next two-year term for the following geant-at-arms and three trustees. The other office that may become vacated. monthly meeting of Branch 333 on member in good standing, active or re- offices will be accepted at the Sept. term for each office will be 24 months, The offices of president, vice president, Wednesday, Nov. 18, during our branch tired, in accordance with the branch’s 9 meeting, which will be conducted beginning Jan. 5, 2021. Nominations recording secretary and treasurer are meeting at 76 Main St., Binghamton at bylaws (Article 4, Section 2). Election online due to the COVID-19 pandemic: will also be accepted for delegates to automatic delegates to the Michigan 7 p.m.: president, vice president, West- will be by secret ballot, mailed to each president, vice president, secretary/ attend the 2021 Virginia State Associa- state convention, per branch bylaws. ern District vice president, secretary, branch member’s address on file. treasurer, health benefits representa- tion convention. Nominations may also Candidates must accept nomination at treasurer and director of retirees. All of Completed ballots must be received tive, two stewards and three trustees. be in writing, but must be received by the time made or, if absent, in writing aforementioned officers are delegates by the election committee before 6 Any member in good standing is eli- the branch secretary/treasurer no later to the branch recording secretary by to the national and state conventions p.m. on Nov. 17 to be counted. The elec- gible for nomination. Those wishing to than 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 3. Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. by virtue of their office; positions also tion committee will collect the ballots, be nominated must accept such nomi- Candidates may accept nomination The Nov. 18 election, due to COV- open for nominations are three trust- bring them to the branch meeting and nations during the September meeting for only one office and must accept ID-19, will be held by secret mail ballot. ees, sergeant-at-arms and 15 delegates begin the tally. Write-in votes are not or must submit their willingness to be either at the time it was made or, if Ballots will be mailed to the address on to the 2021 state convention. permitted. nominated in writing to the branch sec- file of every eligible member on Oct. 29 All nominees must be present to ac- retary prior to the September meeting. absent, in writing. By virtue of their of- Stacye Johnson, Pres., Br. 468 fice, candidates elected president, vice and must be mailed back to the election cept or have filed their intentions with If an election is warranted, it will be president, and secretary/treasurer are committee by Nov. 18 by 6 p.m. to P.O. the branch secretary prior to the nomi- Bozeman, Montana held on Oct. 6 between 3 p.m. and 6 automatically designated as delegates Box 2434, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-2434. nations. Anyone having applied for or p.m. Voting will be by secret ballot. Due to the state and national conventions. The election committee will collect the served in a higher level/supervisory This is to serve as official election to the COVID-19 pandemic, the place for The election will be conducted by ballots and tally the votes at the union position for 24 months prior to nomi- notice to all members of Branch 1028. the voting has yet to be determined. Nominations for president, vice presi- secret ballot. Ballots will be mailed hall. No write-in votes will be allowed. nations shall be ineligible (National Craig Topel, V.P., Br. 4811 dent, secretary, treasurer, sergeant-at- to the address of record of eligible Jane Grant, Rec. Sec., Br. 434 Constitution, Article 5, Section 2). Elec- arms and three trustee positions will members by Nov. 18. Ballots must be tions, if necessary, will be conducted Buffalo-Western New York be accepted in person or in writing at returned to the Election Committee, Arvada, Colorado by secret mail ballots, per local bylaws. the regular branch meeting in October. This is an official notice to all mem- P.O. Box 7408, Alexandria, VA 22307, Laura Johnson, Sec., Br. 333 This is an official election notice Willingness to serve must be acknowl- bers of Branch 3. Nominations for del- by 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 7, the day of the to all members active and retired of Bossier City, Louisiana edged within seven days of nomina- egates to the New York state convention union meeting. Ballots may also be Branch 4405. Nominations will be ac- tion. Elections will be conducted by will be held on Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at turned in at the meeting up until 8 p.m. cepted for the positions of president, This is the official notice to all mem- mail-in ballot. All ballots must be re- the Leonard Post, Cheektowaga. The At that time, the election committee vice president, recording secretary, bers of Branch 4617 of the nominations ceived by the November regular branch election of delegates will be held at the will collect all ballots, bring them to financial secretary, treasurer, sergeant- and elections of the branch officers, del- meeting. branch general membership meeting on the union office at 2059 Huntington at-arms and one three-year trustee. egates and alternate delegates to the Nov. 18. The convention will be held in Ave., P-14, Alexandria, and begin the Candidates running for any branch of- state convention. Elected officers of this Travis Miller, Sec.-Treas., Br. 1028 Schenectady, NY, from July 24-27, 2021. tally. Write-in votes are not permitted. ficer may only accept a nomination for branch shall be: president, vice presi- Brick Town, New Jersey According to the bylaws of the Results will be announced at the regu- a single position. Nominations will also dent, secretary/treasurer, health ben- branch, Article 5, Section 1(c) 2 states: lar branch meeting. In the event that be accepted for shop steward(s), Main efits representative, sergeant-at-arms Nominations for the election of offi- “Acceptance of the nomination must the November branch meeting cannot Office, and shop steward(s), Indian Tree and three trustees. The term for all of- cers of Branch 5420 will be held at the be made verbally or in writing at this be held due to COVID-19 restrictions, Office, and for 10 delegates to the 2021 ficers is three years. By virtue of their of- regular branch meeting on Tuesday, Oct. meeting. In the event a candidate is un- nominations will be taken on a walk-in Colorado state convention. Candidates fices, the president, vice president and 20. Doors open at 6 p.m., the meeting avoidable detained, the candidate may basis between the hours of 7:30 p.m. running for branch officer may also ac- secretary/treasurer will be delegates to begins at 6:30 p.m., and nominations designate any member in attendance at and 9 p.m. at the union office located cept nominations to be a delegate to the convention. will begin at 7:30 p.m. The meeting will the meeting to accept the nomination at 2059 Huntington Ave., Alexandria. the state convention. Nominations will be held on Tues- be held at VFW Post #8867, 373 Ad- on behalf of the candidate. Acceptance All nominations will be held at the amston Road, Brick. Timothy C. Palmer, Sec./Treas., Br. 567 day, Oct. 20 at the regular scheduled of nominations may also be submitted regular October meeting at 6210 Carr meeting at Sissy’s Playhouse located Candidates must accept nominations in writing to the secretary prior to the Alliance, Ohio St., Arvada on Oct. 21, beginning at 6:30 at 2328 Barksdale Blvd., Bossier City. at the time made, or if absent, in writing. meeting or no later than three days after p.m. The president will be an automatic Candidates may accept nominations for This is to serve as notice to all Members should be present to make the close of the meeting. delegate to the convention by virtue of or accept nominations. If absent, mem- only one office and must certify at the Members who have held, accepted members of Branch 297 that nomina- office. All members in good standing bers should notify the secretary/trea- time of nomination that they have not or applied for a supervisory position tions for these offices—president, vice who have not served in a higher-level surer in writing of their willingness to ac- applied for, or served in, a supervisory are ineligible to run for or hold office president, secretary, treasurer, health management position for any period of cept a nomination prior to the meeting. position during the 24 months prior to for a period of two years after termina- benefits coordinator and three trustee two years prior to the nomination date Elections are to be conducted by se- the nomination. tion of such status. All candidates must positions—will take place at the regular are eligible. Candidates must be present cret mail ballot. There will be no write-in Nominations will be held for the fol- verify, upon nomination that they have meeting to be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3, to accept nominations at the time there- votes for candidates not officially on the lowing branch offices: president, first not served, accepted or applied for a at 7 p.m. The meeting will be held at its of or, if absent, may submit their willing- ballot. The last day on which ballots must vice president (executive vice president), supervisory position within the last 24 normal meeting place: Polinori’s, locat- ness of service as officer and/or delegate be received is Nov. 10. Ballots will be second vice president (vice president), months.” ed at 1441 South Liberty Ave., Alliance. in writing to the branch secretary within counted that night at the regular branch secretary, treasurer and five trustees. Article 4 Section 2 states: “All of- Those who wish to be nominated must 48 hours of the start of the meeting or meeting located at Sissy’s Playhouse at The terms of office will be three years, ficers as listed in this Article 4 Section be present or should give the secretary forfeit their right to candidacy. 2328 Barksdale Blvd., Bossier City. beginning Jan. 1, 2021. 1, by virtue of their election will auto- The president, immediately follow- The election will be conducted by a written letter prior to the meeting stat- Mary Somchai, Pres., Br. 4617 matically be delegates to the state and ing his or her acceptance of nomination. ing the close of nominations, will ap- secret ballot at the regular branch meet- national conventions, provided each The term of office will be for the 2021- point the election committee. Elections Bowling Green, Kentucky ing on Tuesday, Nov. 17. Doors open at 6 officer is actually holding office at the 2022 election cycle. The election will be will be conducted by secret mail-in bal- p.m., the meeting begins at 6:30 p.m., time of the convention.” lot, which will be mailed to the branch’s This is official notice of elections for and the election will begin at 7:30 p.m. conducted by mail-in ballot. address of record for each member. the officers and delegates of Branch 468. The meeting will be held at VFW Post Kim M. Fitzgerald, Sec.-Treas., Br. 3 Joshua Lilly, Pres., Br. 297 Members are encouraged to provide Nominations are for the following of- #8867, 373 Adamston Road, Brick. Carmel, Indiana Alton, Illinois their shop steward with updated ad- fices: president, vice president, secretary- Any member who, for any reason, will dress information if they have moved in treasurer, recording secretary, sergeant at be unable to vote on Nov. 17 may obtain This is official notice to all members of This is official notice to all members the past year. This notice will serve as arms, health benefits representative, di- an absentee ballot by writing the Elec- Merged Branch 888 that nominations for of Merged Branch 309 that all members the official announcement that the No- rector of retirees, stewards, delegates to tion Committee, Branch 5420, P.O. Box delegates to the 2021 state convention who have attended 10 out of 12 meet- vember branch meeting will be sched- the 2021 state convention and 2022 na- 1595, Brick, NJ 08723. Requests for ab- will be held at the regular membership ings in good standing are eligible to be uled as normal on the third Wednesday tional convention, and three trustees. Per sentee ballots must be made after the meeting on Nov. 5 at the Carmel American a paid delegate to the 2021 state con- of the month, Nov. 18. The deadline for branch bylaws, the president shall auto- nominations have been closed and must Legion at 852 West Main St., Carmel, in vention. If a vote is needed, it will be at returning secret ballots shall be 6:30 matically serve as a delegate to the state be received by the election committee no accordance with Article 5 of the National the December meeting. p.m. on Nov. 18. Write-in votes will not and national conventions. The length later than Nov. 3. Constitution and the branch bylaws. The Linda Mercurio, Pres., Br. 309 be permitted. The election committee of term for all offices shall be two years, Social distancing will be practiced date and location of the 2021 Indiana

54 The Postal Record September 2020 SeptemberJanuary 20202013 and masks will be required whenever state convention is unknown at this time steward, sergeant-at-arms, three trust- the nomination or provide the president social distancing cannot be maintained. due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ees, delegates to the state convention or secretary, in writing before the end Michael C. Willson, Sec., Br. 5420 The president and vice president, by and delegates to the national conven- of the November meeting, their willing- virtue of their office, are delegates to all tion (elected officers will be automatic ness to accept the nomination and will- Brookfield, Wisconsin state and national conventions during delegates to each convention and oth- ingness to serve if elected. The term of their terms of office. All candidates are ers will be ranked as alternates). office is for three years. (This notice was previously printed required to be present at the meeting Balloting will be done by mail and The election will be by mail ballot, as Brookfield, Pennsylvania;The Postal when nominated or signify in writing their secret ballot, with the election at the and will be held in the month of Decem- Record apologizes for the error.) willingness to serve if elected. Nominees December meeting. The installation will ber. Return mail ballots shall be post- This is a notice to all members of must signify that they have not applied take place at the January meeting. marked no later than Dec. 30. Branch 4811 that nominations for the for, accepted or served in any supervisory Don Thompson, Sec.-Treas., Br. 671 June Ruszala-Martin, Sec., Br. 20 next two-year term for the following capacity in the Postal Service for a period offices will be accepted at the Sept. of 24 months prior to nomination. Cleveland, Ohio Council Bluffs, Iowa 9 meeting, which will be conducted The election, if necessary, will be online due to the COVID-19 pandemic: This is official notice to all Branch 40 This is official notice to all members in conducted by secret ballot mailed to the members that triennial nominations for good standing of Branch 314 that nomina- president, vice president, secretary/ most current home address of record for treasurer, health benefits representa- the following branch officers and nine tions for all branch officers and delegates all members. Ballots must be returned to AFL-CIO delegates will be held at the to the 2021 Iowa state convention will be tive, two stewards and three trustees. the election committee prior to the regu- Any member in good standing is eli- regular branch meeting, which starts held at the regular branch meetings on lar branch meeting at 7 p.m. on Dec. 3. Oct. 8, Nov. 12 and Dec. 10. The meetings gible for nomination. Those wishing to at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 8, 2021, at the Pip- The election will be at the regular branch will be held at Glory Days, 106 W. Broad- be nominated must accept such nomi- efitters Hall, located at 6305 Halle Drive, meeting at 7 p.m. on Dec. 3. way, Council Bluffs. Any member who nations during the September meeting Valley View. All candidates must accept Ken Johnson, Sec., Br. 888 nominations in writing, and the branch wishes to be considered for nomination or must submit their willingness to be must be present at the meeting or submit, nominated in writing to the branch sec- recording secretary must receive those Centennial, Colorado acknowledgements no later than 5 p.m. in writing, their acceptance to the branch retary prior to the September meeting. secretary prior to the October meeting. If an election is warranted, it will be In accordance with Article 5 of the on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021, at Branch 40, 9700 Rockside Road, Suite 110, Valley Elections will take place by secret bal- held on Oct. 6 between 3 p.m. and 6 NALC Constitution and Article 4 of the View, OH 44125. lot at the regular meeting on Dec. 10. p.m. Voting will be by secret ballot. Due branch bylaws, this is official notice to all members of Branch 5996 that nomi- The offices are president, executive Tasha Holben, Sec., Br. 314 to the COVID-19 pandemic, the place for vice president, recording secretary, finan- the voting has yet to be determined. nations for the following offices and po- sitions will be held at the regular Oct. 1 cial secretary-treasurer, health benefits Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio Craig Topel, V.P., Br. 4811 director, MBA representative, three trust- branch meeting at the Centennial branch ees and sergeant-at-arms. The term of the This is an official notice to all mem- office, located at 1010 S. Joliet St., Suite Buffalo-Western New York offices will be three years. Nominations bers of Branch 1629 that nominations for 204, Aurora, at 7:30 p.m.: one trustee branch officer positions will be held at the This is an official notice to all mem- for all station stewards shall be held the (three-year term), shop stewards (all sta- regular union meeting on Wednesday, bers of Branch 3. Nominations for del- second Monday on Jan. 11, 2021, at each tions, one-year term), delegates to the Nov. 4, at the American Legion Post 281, egates to the New York state convention respective station. The term of the offices NALC Colorado state convention, two will be three years. 1601 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls. will be held on Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at delegates to the Colorado AFL-CIO con- the Leonard Post, Cheektowaga. The Elections will be conducted by secret Branch positions include president, vention and two delegates for the Denver mail ballot. Ballots with instructions will vice president, secretary, treasurer, election of delegates will be held at the Area Labor Federation. branch general membership meeting on be mailed to the home address (of record sergeant ­at-arms and three trustee posi- Election will be by secret mail ballot on file) of eligible members at least 20 tions. All positions have a term of three Nov. 18. The convention will be held in and results will be announced at the days before Feb. 12, 2021. Please read years. The election will be held at the Dec. Schenectady, NY, from July 24-27, 2021. Dec. 3 regular branch meeting. Candi- instructions carefully to ensure a valid 2 union meeting. There will also be nomi- According to the bylaws of the dates must accept nomination at the ballot. It is the responsibility of all mem- branch, Article 5, Section 1(c) 2 states: time made or must signify in writing to nations and election for delegates to the bers to keep their addresses current with 2021 NALC Ohio state convention, to be “Acceptance of the nomination must the branch financial/recording secretary Branch 40. If any members have recently held in Cleveland, Aug. 4-8, 2021. be made verbally or in writing at this prior to the meeting their willingness to moved, please notify the recording sec- meeting. In the event a candidate is un- serve in the desired position. retary of your new and current address. Coleen Sullivan, Sec., Br. 1629 avoidable detained, the candidate may All regular members shall be eligible to These ballots may contain a write-in designate any member in attendance at hold any office or position in the branch, space for the selection of steward at units Davenport, Iowa the meeting to accept the nomination except that a member who voluntarily, or where more than one steward is nominat- This is official notice to members of on behalf of the candidate. Acceptance otherwise, holds, accepts or applies for a ed. Only active members may participate Branch 506 that nominations for del- of nominations may also be submitted supervisory position in the Postal Career in the selection of a steward at their unit. egates to the Iowa state convention will in writing to the secretary prior to the Service for any period of time, whether Any active or retired member who be held at the regular scheduled branch meeting or no later than three days after one day or fraction thereof, either de- does not receive a ballot (or is request- meetings on Thursday, Oct. 8, and the close of the meeting. tailed, acting, probationary or permanent- ing an absentee ballot) must him/herself Thursday, Nov. 12, meetings. The voting Members who have held, accepted ly, shall immediately vacate any office notify the election committee by Jan. 22, will take place at the Thursday, Dec. 10, Election Notices or applied for a supervisory position held, and shall be ineligible to run for any 2021, by promptly calling 216-642-1040, meeting. are ineligible to run for or hold office office or other position for a period of two or in writing (postmarked by Jan. 22, 2021) for a period of two years after termina- years after termination of such superviso- to NALC Branch 40 Election Committee, Jennifer Rushton, Sec., Br. 506 Election Notices must be tion of such status. All candidates must ry status. Upon nomination, candidates 9700 Rockside Road, Suite 110, Valley Decatur, Illinois submitted to The Postal Re- verify, upon nomination that they have must verify that they have not served in View, OH 44125. cord, not to other offices at Ballots must be mailed back to the This is the official notice that Branch not served, accepted or applied for a a supervisory capacity for the 24 months NALC. The Constitution for Gov- supervisory position within the last 24 prior to the nomination. election committee and received by 9 317 nominations for state convention months.” In accordance with Article 4, Section a.m. on Feb. 12, 2021. At this time, the delegates will be held at the regular ernment of Federal and Sub- Article 4 Section 2 states: “All of- 2 of the branch bylaws, the branch presi- election committee will collect the bal- scheduled Oct. 6 branch meeting. The ordinate Branches requires ficers as listed in this Article 4 Section dent and vice president shall be del- lots, bring them to the designated loca- meeting is held at 2955 N. Woodford St., that notice be mailed to mem- 1, by virtue of their election will auto- egates to the national and state conven- tion, and begin the tally. Election results Decatur, at 7 p.m. Nominees do not need bers no fewer than 45 days will be read at this meeting. matically be delegates to the state and tions by virtue of their office, provided to be present but must submit written ac- before the election (Article national conventions, provided each they were elected pursuant to the NALC Nestor J. Chaves, Rec. Sec., Br. 40 ceptance of the nomination to the branch 5, Section 4). Branch secre- officer is actually holding office at the election regulations. Connecticut Merged recording secretary no later than Oct. 6 at taries must remember the time time of the convention.” Courtney Heber, Rec. Sec., Br. 5996 7 p.m. difference between deadline Kim M. Fitzgerald, Sec.-Treas., Br. 3 This is to serve as official notice to Champaign, Illinois all members of Branch 20 that nomi- April Hudson, Pres., Br. 317 for submission of notices— Carmel, Indiana nations for the following positions will the 10th of the month—and This is the official notice to all mem- take place at the monthly meeting on DeLand, Florida publication of the subsequent This is official notice to all members of bers of Branch 671 that nominations Wednesday, Nov. 4: president, vice In accordance with Article 5 of the issue of the magazine, e.g., Merged Branch 888 that nominations for for the following officers will be held at president, secretary, treasurer, assis- NALC Constitution and branch bylaws, November’s deadline is for the delegates to the 2021 state convention the regular October meeting. Because this is official notice to all members of tant secretary-treasurer, health benefits December publication. will be held at the regular membership of current COVID-19 gathering restric- representative and three trustees. Branch 2591 that nominations for state meeting on Nov. 5 at the Carmel American tions, nominations and acceptance will Nominations will be accepted from convention delegates and alternates will Legion at 852 West Main St., Carmel, in be made in writing to a current officer the floor or in writing. Written nomina- be held at the Oct. 8 meeting at 7 p.m. accordance with Article 5 of the National or during the October Webex meeting: tions must be in the possession of the at Los Dos Compadres, located at 549 E. Constitution and the branch bylaws. The president, vice president, secretary- secretary no later than 7 p.m. on Nov. International Speedway Blvd., DeLand. date and location of the 2021 Indiana treasurer, two stewards, one Rantoul 4. Nominees must be present to accept All nominees must have attended at

September 2020 SeptemberJanuary 20202013 The Postal Record 55 55 Election Notices

least eight meetings in the 12 months be mailed in no later than Oct. 20 and president, secretary, treasurer, three but cannot attend the meeting, they N. 9th St., Grand Junction, at 6 p.m. prior to the election in order to receive must be returned no later than Nov. 30. trustees, sergeant-at-arms, health ben- must signify their willingness to run in Elections will be held at the regular any expense money from branch funds, Joseph Gmiterek, Rec. Sec., Br. 67 efit representative and delegates to the writing. December meeting. and certify that they haven’t served in a Florida State Association of Letter Car- The elective offices to be filled are Missy McNeely, Sec., Br. 913 supervisory role in the 24 months prior to Elkhart, Indiana riers convention will be held on Oct. 8 president, vice president, secretary, trea- the elections. at the American Legion located at 105 surer and three trustees. Terms of office This is official notice to all members Greenville, South Carolina Dennis Miranda Jr., Sec., Br. 2591 Hollywood Blvd., Ft. Walton Beach, will be for two years, from Jan. 1, 2021, of Branch 547 for the nomination and at the regular branch meeting at 7:30 through Dec. 31, 2022. The branch will This is to notify all members of Downers Gove, Illinois election of president, vice president, p.m. also select eight elective delegates to Branch 439 that, at the Oct. 1 regular secretary, treasurer, sergeant-at-arms, Elections for the delegates to attend the state convention and terms of of- meeting of the branch at 4003 Old Nominations will be held for del- health benefits representative, two this convention will be held at the regu- fice will be for one year, Jan. 1, 2021, Buncombe Road, Greenville, three egates for the 2021 state convention stewards for the Elkhart office, one lar Nov. 12 regular meeting. You must through Dec. 31, 2021, in accordance bylaw changes will be read and voted in East Peoria. Branch 1870 will be held steward for the Goshen office and three have been present for nine of the 12 with our bylaws and with no national on. The changes affect Art. XVI - Art. XII at the regular branch meeting on Sept. trustees. Nominations will be made at regular meetings of the preceding year. convention in 2021. Please note that and a new Art. XV. In order to be able 10 at 7 p.m. at the Knights of Colum- the regular branch meeting on Tuesday, You must be present; if you are un- according to the bylaws of the branch, to vote on the changes, you must be at bus Hall, 25 N. Cass, Westmont. Candi- Sept. 1, at 7 p.m. The term of office is able to attend to accept the nomina- the president is a delegate to conven- the meeting. dates must accept nominations at the for two years, with the election taking tion, you must have a written accep- tion by virtue of their office. Michelle Splawn, Sec., Br. 439 time made or, if absent, in writing. place at the regular branch meeting in tance letter in to the branch secretary Elections will be conducted by secret Candidates may accept nomina- October. prior to the Nov. 8 meeting informing ballot at the regular branch meeting Hattiesburg, Mississippi the branch of your willingness to ac- on Tuesday, Nov. 10. Meeting begins tions for only one office. Any member in good standing is This is official notice to the members Elections will be conducted through eligible for nomination. A member cept the position that you were nomi- at 6:30 p.m. The meeting place will be nated for. at the Senior Center (Sand Lily Room), of Branch 938 that nominations for del- mail-in ballots, and all ballots will be need not be present at the meeting egates to the 2021 state convention, all counted during the meeting on Nov. to be nominated; however, they must Percy Smith Jr., Pres., Br. 4559 1200 Raintree Drive, Fort Collins. Any member who, for any reason, branch officers and one board of trustee 12 at 7 p.m. Meetings are held at the submit to the branch secretary, prior will take place at the Oct. 15 regular Knights of Columbus HaIl, 25 N. Cass, to the branch meeting, a written notice Fall River, Massachusetts will be unable to vote in person on Nov. 10 may obtain an absentee bal- meeting. The elections will take place Westmont. indicating a desire to accept a specific This is an official notice to all mem- at the Nov. 19 regular meeting. Both nomination. lot by writing the Election Committee, Any member in good standing is eli- bers of Branch 51 that nominations for Branch 849, P.O. Box 270848, Fort Col- the nominations and elections will be gible for nomination. James Camren, Sec., Br. 547 all branch officers shall open and close lins, CO 80527-0848. Requests for ab- held at the St. Thomas Aquinas Catho- Jeanie Edwards, Sec., Br. 1870 at the regular monthly meeting on Oct. sentee ballots must be received by the lic Church meeting room, 3117 W. 4th Elyria, Ohio 13. election committee by no later than Street, Hattiesburg. Dubuque, Iowa In accordance with the bylaws of The meeting will be held at the Nov. 2. All absentee ballots must be Hal E. Odom, Sec.-Treas., Br. 938 Branch 257 is announcing dates for Branch 196, this is the official notice that branch office, located on the third mailed in to the Election Committee our upcoming November officer nomi- nominations and election of all officers, floor at 4 Hartwell St., Fall River, and at P.O. Box 270848, Fort Collins, CO Kenner, Louisiana nations and our elections in December. trustees, station stewards, NALC health is scheduled to begin at 7:15 p.m. 80527-0848. Each member’s ballot is This is official notice to all members Officer nominations will be held on Tues- benefits representative, sergeant-at- The meeting may also be available on to be mailed in separately or it will be of Branch 4342 that nominations for day, Nov. 10, and our elections will be arms, delegates and alternate delegates Zoom (see for updated meeting invalid. All ballots must be received at delegates to the Louisiana state con- held Wednesday, Dec. 9. to the national or state conventions shall information). All officers will be elected P.O. Box 270848 by 1 p.m. on Nov. 10 vention, to be held in Shreveport, June in order to be counted. Jason Stephenson, Sec., Br. 257 be conducted. Nominations will be taken to serve two years and will be eligible 2-5, 2021, will take place at the Nov. 5 at the regular membership meeting on for re-election to the same office upon Danielle Fake-Moorman, Pres., Br. 849 union meeting, with the election of del- El Paso, Texas Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. at the American Legion completion of their term. egates to take place at the Dec. 3 union Post 12, 393 Ohio St, Elyria. Please note Fort Wayne, Indiana meeting. All meetings will take place at This is an official notice to all Nominations will be held for the fol- this change in venue for all membership This is the official notice to all mem- our regular meeting room in Kenner. Branch 505 members that the nomi- meetings until further notice. lowing positions: president, executive nations for branch delegates to the vice president, first vice president/ bers of Summit City Branch 116 that Thomas A. Juhas, Sec.-Treas., Br. 4342 Each candidate for office or delegate nominations will be held at the regular TSALC state convention and one must be present at the meeting when collector/clerk, MBA/NSBA, second trustee will be accepted from the vice president, recording secretary, branch meeting in October for delegates La Crosse, Wisconsin nominated or signify in writing their will- to the 2021 Indiana state convention. floor at our regular branch meeting on ingness to serve if elected. Acceptance of treasurer, financial secretary, health This is official notice to all members Candidates must be present at the of Branch 59 that nominations for all Wednesday, Oct. 2, at 7 p.m. the nomination must be made verbally or benefits representative, sergeant-at- October meeting or have submitted Nominees not present must submit in writing at this meeting. In the event a arms, three branch trustees, Flint Sta- branch offices, with two-year terms be- prior to the nomination a letter to the ginning on Jan. 1, 2021, will be held at their acceptance for nomination in candidate is unavoidably detained, the tion shop steward, Highland Station recording/financial secretary stating ac- writing to the branch recording secre- candidate may designate any member in shop steward(s), South Station shop the regular branch meeting on Oct. 1. All ceptance of the nomination. Candidates candidates for any office must be pres- tary prior to the start of nominations. attendance at the meeting to accept the steward(s), Somerset Branch shop must signify that they have not served ent at the meeting when nominated, or Elections shall be by secret ballot nomination on behalf of the candidate. steward, Main Office shop steward(s), in a supervisory position for 24 months via mail, from Nov. 1-21; term for the Acceptance of nominations may be also signify in writing the willingness to serve Taunton Office shop steward(s), Carri- prior to the nomination. Voting will be by if elected. trustee shall be for three consecutive submitted in writing to the secretary/trea- ers Courier circulation manager, Car- mail-in ballot. The ballots will be counted surer prior to the meeting. All candidates Elections will be held at the regular years from Jan. 1, 2021, to Dec. 31, riers Courier editor, eight delegates by the nomination/election committee monthly meeting on Nov. 5. Both meet- 2023. for office must be regular members in to the Southeastern Massachusetts in December. good standing at the time of nominations. ings will be held at All Star Lanes, 4735 Arturo Gallardo, Rec. Sec., Br. 505 District Association (SEMDA), one del- Elizabeth Wappes, Rec. Sec., Br. 116 Station stewards shall be elected only by Mormon Coulee Road, La Crosse. egate for every 20 members or fraction the regular members within the station or Gary, Indiana Aileen Ledesma, Sec., Br. 59 Elizabeth, New Jersey area that they represent. thereof to the national convention, one In accordance with Article 5 of the An election by secret mail-in ballot, delegate for every 20 members or frac- This is an official notification of elec- Laramie, Wyoming NALC Constitution and bylaws, this is where there are two or more candidates tion thereof to the Massachusetts State tions to all members of Branch 1326. This is an official notice to all mem- the official notice to all members of for any office, will then take place. The Letter Carriers convention, and three Nominations for the election of all branch bers of Branch 463 in good standing Branch 67 that nominations for the fol- election committee shall mail the ballots building fund trustees. officers and delegates will be accepted that nominations for elected branch lowing positions will be made at the not less than two days or more than six After nominations, the elections will at the regular scheduled union meeting officers will be held at our regular regular October branch meeting: presi- days following the date of nominations. be conducted by secret mail ballot. at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10, in ac- monthly meeting on Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. at dent, vice president, financial secre- To be valid, ballots must reach the P.O. Ballots will be sent to all members in cordance with our branch bylaws. The the American Legion, 417 Ivinson Ave., tary, recording secretary/health ben- box no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, good standing and must be received in branch union hall is located at 1221 E. Laramie. Nominations will be held for efits representative, sergeant-at-arms Nov. 4, the day before the November gen- the designated branch P.O. box no later Ridge Road, Gary. the following branch offices: president, and three trustees. The term of office eral membership meeting, at which time Election results will be announced dur- vice president, secretary and treasurer will be Jan. 1, 2021-Dec. 31, 2022. Any than 4 p.m. on the Monday immediate- the election committee shall empty the ly preceding the second Tuesday in De- ing the regular scheduled union meeting (each serving a term of one year) and member who is in good standing and P.O. box and secure all ballots for count- on Dec. 8. two trustee positions (serving a term of is current with their dues may run for cember. The results will be announced ing. Write-in votes shall not be valid. Elec- at the scheduled Dec. 8 meeting. Andrew Dvorscak, Sec., Br. 1326 two years). Elections will be held at our these positions. All candidates must tion results will be announced as soon regular meeting on Nov. 12. be present at the time of their nomi- Keith Eastwood, Rec. Sec., Br. 51 as possible after the conclusion of the Grand Junction, Colorado Brittney Reed, Sec., Br. 463 nations, or signify their willingness November meeting. Installation of officers Fort Collins, Colorado in writing to accept, if elected. Candi- will take place at the December member- This is an official notice to all Lima, Ohio dates, upon nomination, must certify ship meeting. Nominations for elected officers and members, active and retired, in good that they have not served, nor applied, delegates will be held at the regular standing of Branch 913 that nomina- This is official notice to all members for a supervisory position within the Perry Sprachmann, Exec. V.P., Br. 196 branch meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 20. tions for all two-year term positions, of Branch 105 that nominations for del- past 24 months. Meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Location is including president, vice president, egates to the 2021 state convention Nominations will be held at 7:30 Emerald Coast, Florida the Senior Center (Sand Lily Room), 1200 recording secretary, treasurer, three will be held at the regular meeting in p.m. at the American Legion Hall, 115 This notice is to serve as official no- Raintree Drive, Fort Collins. Any member trustee positions, sergeant-at-arms November. Grove St., Roselle on Oct. 1. Election tice to all members of Branch 4559 that in good standing may run for any office. and health benefits officer will be held The election will be conducted by will be by secret mail ballot. Ballots will the nominations for president, vice If a member wishes to be a candidate, at the regular Nov. 11 meeting at 1000 secret mail ballot, with ballots to be in

56 The Postal Record September 2020 SeptemberJanuary 20202013 N. 9th St., Grand Junction, at 6 p.m. before and results announced at the meeting of the branch. That meeting will 908 W. Jackson. Elections will be held at the regular regular meeting in December. be held at 5:30 p.m. in the basement of Nominees need not be present at December meeting. Todd J. Friemoth, Sec., Br. 105 the Monterey Post Office, located at 565 the meeting, provided that they submit Missy McNeely, Sec., Br. 913 Hartnell, Monterey. written notice of their intention of run- Longmont, Colorado Voting will be by secret ballot and ning to the recording secretary prior to Greenville, South Carolina ballots must be returned by November. nominations or within one week after This is the official notice to all active If your address has changed, and you do the meeting. This is to notify all members of and retired members in good stand- not receive a ballot, you must notify the The election will be held at the same Branch 439 that, at the Oct. 1 regular ing of Branch 1105 that nominations branch secretary to request a ballot, who location on Dec. 1, between 6 p.m. and meeting of the branch at 4003 Old for all officers will be taken at the Oct. will in turn notify the election committee. 6:45 p.m. Buncombe Road, Greenville, three 20 meeting at 6 p.m. Election of nomi- Officers to be elected are president, The president, vice president, secre- bylaw changes will be read and voted nees will follow at the Nov. 17 branch vice president, secretary, treasurer, tary and treasurer, by virtue of the office, on. The changes affect Art. XVI - Art. XII meeting at 6 p.m. by secret ballot. Any sergeant-at-arms, health benefits rep- shall be automatic delegates to the state and a new Art. XV. In order to be able member interested in running for any resentative and a three-person board of convention. to vote on the changes, you must be at office needs to submit their intentions trustees. Richard Nickels, Sec., Br. 1151 the meeting. to the branch president in writing. Any All regular members of the branch are Michelle Splawn, Sec., Br. 439 member who, for any reason, will be un- eligible to accept an office, except those Natchez, Mississippi able to attend the Nov. 17 meeting may who have held or applied for a 204-b po- This is an official notice to all mem- Hattiesburg, Mississippi obtain an absentee ballot by writing to sition within the past two years preceding bers of Branch 476 that nominations This is official notice to the members the Election Committee Branch 1105, the nominations. for all officers and trustees will be held of Branch 938 that nominations for del- P.O. Box 1702, Longmont, CO 80502. If you are unable to attend, but want at the October meeting. Those wishing egates to the 2021 state convention, all Requests for absentee ballots must be to nominate someone or accept a nomi- to become nominees must be in at- branch officers and one board of trustee received by Nov. 2. Completed absentee nation, please send your notice to Scott tendance at that meeting, unless you will take place at the Oct. 15 regular ballots must be received by Nov. 17 at Bedell, Secretary, NALC Branch 1310, P.O. send a signed affidavit to the meeting meeting. The elections will take place the branch P.O. box. Box 1383, Monterey, CA. Your letter must indicating your willingness to accept the be received by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. at the Nov. 19 regular meeting. Both Charles Niehus, Sec., Br. 1105 nomination if offered. the nominations and elections will be 15. The election will be held at the regu- held at the St. Thomas Aquinas Catho- Melrose Park, Illinois Scott Bedell, Sec., Br. 1310 lar November meeting. Installation of lic Church meeting room, 3117 W. 4th This shall serve as official notice to officers will be held in December. Street, Hattiesburg. all members of Branch 2183 that nomi- Montgomery, Alabama Frank A. Patti, Sec., Br. 476 Hal E. Odom, Sec.-Treas., Br. 938 nations for officers of Branch 2183 and Branch 106 will be holding nomi- delegates to the 2021 Illinois state con- nations for president, vice president, Neenah, Wisconsin Kenner, Louisiana vention will take place at the regular secretary, treasurer and one trustee This is an official notice for all Branch This is official notice to all members scheduled union meeting on Oct. 21 position in October and November. 700 members. Nominations for all of Branch 4342 that nominations for at the American Legion Hall, located at Elections will be in December. Nomina- branch officers, who will serve for a two- delegates to the Louisiana state con- 9757 Pacific Ave., Franklin Park, at 6:15 tions and elections will be held at our year term, will take place at the Oct. 6 vention, to be held in Shreveport, June p.m. regularly scheduled monthly meetings. meeting. The election, if necessary, will 2-5, 2021, will take place at the Nov. 5 The election will be conducted by Monthly meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. take place at the Nov. 3 meeting. secret mail ballot. Ballots with instruc- (executive board begins at 6:30 p.m.). union meeting, with the election of del- Jean Schraufnagel, Sec., Br. 700 egates to take place at the Dec. 3 union tions will be mailed to the home ad- Due to social-distancing requirements, meeting. All meetings will take place at dresses (of record/on file) of eligible our monthly meeting will be held at the New Bern, North Carolina our regular meeting room in Kenner. members in good standing. Ballots Double Tree Hotel by Hilton in down- must be received by the election com- town Montgomery, located at 120 Madi- This will serve as the official notice Thomas A. Juhas, Sec.-Treas., Br. 4342 mittee at the designated address by 3 son Ave., Montgomery. of nomination and election of branch p.m. on Nov. 18. Kimberly Wallace, Sec., Br. 106 officers of Branch 780. The election of La Crosse, Wisconsin Results will be announced at the officers of Branch 780 will be held at This is official notice to all members Nov. 18 meeting. Morgantown, West Virginia the regular branch meeting on Oct. 27 of Branch 59 that nominations for all at 6:30 p.m. at the United Steelworkers branch offices, with two-year terms be- Valerie Henry, Rec. Sec., Br. 2183 This is official notice to all Branch 783 Union Hall, located at 1711 Racetrack ginning on Jan. 1, 2021, will be held at members that we will begin accepting Road, New Bern. Candidates must ac- the regular branch meeting on Oct. 1. All Modesto, California nominations for officers at the October cept nominations at the time made or, if candidates for any office must be pres- This is an official notice to all active meeting. Nominees must indicate in absent, in writing. Candidates may only ent at the meeting when nominated, or and retired members of Branch 1291 that writing or in person whether they accept accept nominations for one office. signify in writing the willingness to serve nominations will be conducted at the Nov. their nomination. Elections will be held Nominations will be held for the if elected. 5 branch meeting being held on Zoom. by secret ballot at the December meet- following branch offices for a two-year Elections will be held at the regular Nominations are for the following offi- ing. Absentee ballots will be provided if term: president, sergeant-at-arms, vice monthly meeting on Nov. 5. Both meet- cers: president, vice president, secretary, necessary. president, treasurer, recording secre- ings will be held at All Star Lanes, 4735 treasurer and three trustee positions. The Daniel Douglass, Sec., Br. 783 tary, branch steward and one trustee for a three-year term. Mormon Coulee Road, La Crosse. terms of office will be for two years, begin- Aileen Ledesma, Sec., Br. 59 Mt. Clemens, Michigan Nominations will also be accepted ning Jan. 1, 2021. for delegates to the NALC North Carolina Elec- In accordance with the National Con- Laramie, Wyoming Candidates for each office must either state convention for 2021. tion be present on our Zoom meeting or sig- stitution and the branch bylaws, this is The election will be conducted by This is an official notice to all mem- official notice to all Branch 654 members Notices nify in writing prior to the meeting their secret ballot at the regular branch meet- must bers of Branch 463 in good standing willingness to accept the nomination if (Algonac, Marine City, New Baltimore, Mt. ing on Nov. 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the United that nominations for elected branch offered. This letter must be received by Clemens-Annex and Main, and Richmond) Steelworkers Union Hall, located at 1711 be sub- officers will be held at our regular the secretary on or before nomination day that nominations for all Branch 654 elected Racetrack Road, New Bern. mitted positions for the 2021-2022 term will take monthly meeting on Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. at and should sent to Miriam Thomas, Sec- to The the American Legion, 417 Ivinson Ave., place at the regular branch meeting on Lloyd Coffey, Rec. Sec., Br. 780 retary, P.O. Box 3559, Modesto CA 95352. Postal Laramie. Nominations will be held for Oct. 27. the following branch offices: president, Any member serving in, or who has ap- If an election is necessary, ballots will New Braunfels, Texas Record, vice president, secretary and treasurer plied for a supervisory position within two be mailed to every applicable member as This notice shall serve as an official not to (each serving a term of one year) and years before nominations, may not run for soon as possible following the Oct. 27 reg- notice to all members of Branch 2805 that other two trustee positions (serving a term of or hold branch office. ular branch meeting. If necessary, election nominations for all branch officers, trust- of- two years). Elections will be held at our The election will be held by secret results will be announced at the Nov. 24 ees and delegates will take place at the fices at regular meeting on Nov. 12. ballot mailed to all members last known regular branch meeting. Due to COVID-19 Oct. 14 meeting. Elections, if necessary, will be held at the Nov. 11 meeting. Regu- NALC. Brittney Reed, Sec., Br. 463 address. Ballots must be received by the concerns and social-gathering guidelines, The election committee by Dec. 3. The results branch meetings may be virtual. lar meetings take place at the Ramada Inn Conference Room, 1051 NIH 35, New Consti- Lima, Ohio will be announced that evening at the Corry Smith, Rec. Sec., Br. 654 regularly scheduled branch meeting. Braunfels. tution This is official notice to all members for Gov- of Branch 105 that nominations for del- Miriam Thomas, Sec., Br. 1291 Naperville, Illinois Robert Tyo, Sec., Br. 2805 egates to the 2021 state convention This is to notify the members of Branch will be held at the regular meeting in Monterey, California 1151 that nominations for all branch of- North Haven, Connecticut November. This is official notice to all Branch 1310 ficers and delegates to the 2021 state This is an official notice to all mem- The election will be conducted by members that election of officers for the convention will take place at the regular bers of Branch 19. secret mail ballot, with ballots to be in branch will be held at the regular Oct. 15 monthly meeting on Nov. 3 at the V.F.W., Nominations for all elected offices

September 2020 SeptemberJanuary 20202013 The Postal Record 57 57 Election Notices

for a three-year term shall be made from Palm Springs, California diately vacate any office held and shall be vote. The election committee will mail bal tary not less than 30 days before the the floor at the regular branch meeting ineligible to run for any office for a period lots to all eligible voters on the first Mon- date of the election. The branch elec- on Nov. 18 at the Post 83 American Le- This is official notice to the member- of two years after termination of such su- day of November (Nov. 2). tion shall be by secret mail ballot, with gion Hall, 243 North Main St., Branford. ship for nominations and election of pervisory status. Upon nomination, the Elections for shop stewards will take ballots to be mailed out within seven Candidates must accept nominations at officers for Branch 4149. Nominations candidate must certify that he/she has place in January 2021 at each respective days after all nominations are made. the time made or, if absent, in writing to shall be opened at the regular member- not served in a supervisory capacity for station and/or city. Nomination on official Ballots must be postmarked by Dec. 9 the recording secretary. This statement ship meeting on Oct. 15 at 7 p.m. Ballots the 24 months prior to the nomination. form, or in writing, is due to the secretary- to be considered valid. Dec. 10 will be will be counted at the Dec. 10 member- of acceptance must be in the hands of The election will be conducted, if treasurer prior to the close of the Jan. 6, the date of the election. A member may ship meeting. Nominations are for the the secretary by 8 p.m. This election shall necessary, by secret ballot on Monday, 2021, branch meeting. bring his/her ballot to the Dec. 10 meet- following offices: president, vice presi- be held at the same time and manner as Dec. 7. Voting will take place from 2 p.m. All candidates must be members in ing and give the ballot to a member of dent, treasurer, secretary, three trust- to 7 p.m., prior to the Branch 15 union stated in Article 5, Section 5c. Election good standing and signify in writing that the election committee. They must do ees, sergeant-at-arms and health ben- meeting at 7 p.m. in the Providence results will be announced at the regular they have not served in a supervisory ca- so in person and no later than 6 p.m. efit representative. The Oct. 15 branch APWU 387 hall, 1192 Plainfield St., John- branch meeting on Dec. 16. pacity within the past two years prior to meeting will be held at the parking lot ston. All working carriers will be given the date of nomination. Manuel Mairena, Pres., Br. 1280 Nominations for the following branch in front of the branch office on 74000 the opportunity to vote. offices will be made: president, vice Sheila Gardner, Sec.-Treas., Br. 214 Sioux Falls, South Dakota Dinah Shore Drive, #408, Palm Desert Jon Barbery Jr., Rec. Sec., Br. 15 president, recording secretary, financial at 7 p.m. Only beverages will be served. This shall serve as official notice to secretary, treasurer, sergeant-at-arms, San Juan, Puerto Rico Charles Bonner, Pres., Br. 4149 Roanoke, Virginia all members of Branch 491 that nomina- health benefit representative, three This is the official notification of elec- tions for all positions for officers and trustees and director of retired members. In accordance with Article 3 of the tions to all members of Branch 869. Peoria, Illinois bylaws of Branch 524, this is an official for delegates to the South Dakota State Mary Ann DeRevere, Rec. Sec., Br. 19 Nominations for the following positions Association convention, which will be This is an official election notice to notice to all members of Branch 524. The will be made in writing but must be re- held in Rapid City, Sept. 17-18, 2021. Northern Virginia all members of Branch 31. Nominations monthly Branch 524 business meeting ceived by the election committee no later for one trustee position will occur at the of Tuesday, Oct. 13, is now scheduled for than Nov. 15: president, vice president, All nominations for both shall be made In accordance with Article 5 of the regular Nov. 12 branch business meet- Tuesday, Oct. 20. The time of the meeting recording secretary, financial secretary, at the regular monthIy branch meeting, National Constitution, this is the official ing. The term of office for the elected remains at 7 p.m. The Branch 524 busi- treasurer, sergeant at arms, health ben- held at the Labor Temple, 101 S. Fairfax notice to all members of Branch 3520 position is for two years, with the term ness meetings are held at the union hall efit representative and a board of trust- Ave., Sioux Falls, on Nov. 12 at 6:30 p.m. that nomination of delegates to the 2021 beginning Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. Nom- located at 1015 Georgia Ave. NE, Roanoke. ees composed of three members and a Nominations will be accepted from the floor, by any member in good standing, Virginia State Association of Letter Carri- ination for delegates to the 2021 state Jack Green, Sec., Br. 524 newspaper editor . Elections will be con- ers convention will be held at the regular convention will also take place at the ducted by mail. The ballot will be mailed and such nominees must be present to branch meeting on Thursday, Nov. 12. Nov. 12 branch meeting. Saginaw, Michigan to each member’s last known home ad- accept or notify the recording secretary Nominations for the trustee position or president in writing of their willing- Elections, if necessary, wiII be held at This is to serve as notice to all mem- dress on Nov. 23. Ballots must be mailed the regular branch meeting on Thursday, and delegates to the state convention back to the Election Committee, P.O. Box ness to accept, if nominated, prior to will come from the floor. Self-nomination bers of Branch 74 that nominations for the meeting. Jan. 14, 2021. branch officers, shop stewards and del- 367241, San Juan, PR 00936-7421, and is permissible. You must be in atten- The election, if necessary, will be Branch 3520 regular meetings are egates to the state convention in 2021 must be received by 3 p.m. on Dec. 15. At held at 7:30 p.m. at the Motel 6, Governor dance to indicate your willingness to that time, the election committee will col- conducted by mailed secret ballot, and accept the nomination. If you are unable and national convention in 2022 will Room, 6654 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church take place on Oct. 6 at the branch regular lect the ballots, bring them to the union must be received no later than 5 p.m. on to attend the meeting, you must submit, hall and begin the tally. All officers shall Dec. 9, as results will be announced at (subject to COVID-19 restrictions). in writing to the recording secretary, your monthly meeting at 3175 Christy Way S. St., #4, Saginaw. be elected for a term of three years. Each the regular December branch meeting. Deborah B. Quinn, Sec.-Treas., Br. 2520 intent to accept prior to nominations. candidate for office or delegate must at- Mark DeBelts, Pres., Br. 491 Election, if necessary, will be by secret Patricia M. Sedlock, Sec., Br. 74 tend the meeting or signify in writing his/ Norwalk, Connecticut ballot at the Navy Marine Club, 1310 E. her willingness to serve if elected. Seiberling Ave., Peoria Heights, prior to St. Paul, Minnesota S. Suburban Mgd., Illinois This is to serve as official notice to Angel Roman, Rec. Sec., Br. 869 members of Branch 147 that nomina- the branch meeting at 7 p.m. on Dec. 10. Nominations for the election of the This is official notice to all Branch tions for the following branch officers An absentee ballot may be requested. office of recording/financial secretary of San Mateo, California 4016 membes that nominations for del- will be held at the regular branch meet- Sherri Pollard, Rec. Sec., Br. 31 Branch 28 will be held at the branch gen- egates to the 2021 Illinois state conven- ing on Oct. 21: president, vice presi- eral membership meeting on Oct. 15 at 7 This is the official notice for nomina- tion will take place at the regular branch dent, recording secretary, treasurer, Pittsfield, Massachusetts p.m. at the union hall, 1715 Van Dyke St., tions for the election of Branch 1280 meeting on Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the officers and delegates. The following American Legion Post 615, 17423 S. 67th financial secretary, sergeant-at-arms, Branch 286 will be accepting nomina- St. Paul. health benefits representative and offices will be open for nomination: Court, Tinley Park. tions for all branch positions at our Oct. The terms of office will be two years, five trustees. The term of service will beginning in January of 2020. president, executive vice president, first Candidates must accept nomination 20 meeting, via Zoom. The election will be at the time made or, if absent, in writing be from December 2020 to December The election will be conducted at the vice president, second vice president, held in November. Meetings, as always, to the branch recording secretary by the 2023. Nominees must be members in Nov. 19 branch general membership recording secretary, financial secretary time of nomination. good standing with NALC and Branch are held the third Tuesday of the month at meeting, by those members of Branch 28 treasurer, MBA/NSBA health benefit 147. Election will be by mail-in ballot. 7 p.m. If you wish to participate via Zoom, representative, sergeant-at-arms and If necessary, the election of del- in good standing and in attendance at the egates to the state convention will be Branch meetings are held at the Ferris please submit your email address to the meeting, and by secret ballot. three trustees. Nominations will be held Hill Club, 46 Ferris Ave., Norwalk, and branch email address before Sept. 15. for the above-listed offices at the regular by secret ballot at the regular branch Joel Malkush, Pres., Br. 28 begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. You can send an email with your name to branch meeting on Nov. 12. The meeting meeting on Nov. 10 at the same time and location. Bruce Anderson, Sec., Br. 147 [email protected]. San Francisco, California will be held at the branch office, located James Gilmore, Pres., Br. 286 at 1523 Rollins Road, Burlingame. Daniel C. Smith, Pres., Br. 4016 Owensboro, Kentucky Nomination forms for all elective The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Providence, Rhode Island branch officers shall be made by mail or sharp. All regular and retired members Springfield, Ohio In accordance with Article 5 of the dropped off by 5 p.m. to the branch office, shall be eligible to hold office or posi- This is official notice to members of national and local constitutions, nomi- This is the official notice that the nominations for Branch 15 delegates to located at 2310 Mason St., San Francisco, tions in the branch, except that a mem- Branch 45 that nominations for the offices nations of all Branch 234 officer and the 2021 Rhode Island state convention prior to a virtual branch meeting at 7 ber who, voluntarily or otherwise, holds, of president, vice president, recording sec- trustee positions shall be accepted at p.m. on Oct. 7. Officers to be elected are and two Branch 15 building trustees will accepts or applies for a supervisory retary, assistant recording secretary, finan- our regular branch meeting on Oct. 15 president, executive vice president, vice be held at the regular branch meeting position in the Postal Career Service cial secretary, treasurer, sergeant-at-arms, at 2600 West 2nd St., at 6 p.m. Every president, secretary-treasurer, assistant on Monday, Nov. 2. The branch meeting for any period of time, whether for one MBA representative, health benefits repre- regular member shall have the right to will start at 7 p.m., and will be held at the secretary-treasurer, health benefits repre- sentative, safety and health officer, equal day or fraction thereof, either detailed, sentative and one trustee, as well as nomi- nominate a candidate for any office or Providence APWU #387 hall, 1192 Plain- acting, probationary or permanently, nations for delegates to the 2021 state and position to be filled. field St., Johnston. employment opp01iunity officer, MBA of- ficer, director of organization, sergeant-at­ shall immediately vacate any office 2022 national conventions will be held at If necessary, ballots shall be mailed In accordance with the Branch 15 by- held, and shall be ineligible to run for the regular branch meeting on Nov. 12. to each member’s last known address. laws, the president and the recording arms and three trustees. All candidates must submit their nomi- any office or other position for a period The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m., at 150 Completed ballots may be returned to secretary are automatic delegates to the of two years after termination of such North Limestone St., Room 221, Spring- state convention. Those nominated must nation on the official nomination form or the secretary by mail (P.O. Box 22662, supervisory status. Upon nomination, the field. be present to accept the nomination or in writing, and must indicate that they Owensboro, KY 42304), or in person at candidate(s) must certify that he or she All candidates for office or delegates the election meeting on Nov. 19. Bal- have submitted in writing to the branch have not served in a supervisory capacity secretary, prior to the meeting, their will- within the previous two years before the has not served in a supervisory capacity must be present at the November meeting lots will be tallied at our regular branch for the 24 months prior to the nomina- when nominated, or submit in writing their meeting on Nov. 19. Elected branch of- ingness to accept the nomination. All nomination date. Nominees shall have signified, in writing, to the branch secre- tion, according to Article 5, Section 2 of willingness to serve if elected, through a ficers and trustee will be installed at our members in good standing are eligible tary-treasurer their willingness to accept the NALC Constitution for the Government member in good standing in attendance regular January branch meeting. to be nominated except that any regular the nomination for the position nominat- of Subordinate and Federal Branches. at the meeting. This signed statement This is your chance to be heard and member who, voluntarily or otherwise, holds, accepts or applies for a supervi- ed to, on an official form in writing, which Every regular member shall have the will be presented to the recording sec- to make an impact on the direction that sory position in the Postal Service for any are all due to the secretary-treasurer prior right to nominate a candidate for any of- retary at the November meeting prior to Branch 234 heads. I hope to see you all period of time, whether for one day or to the close of the Oct. 7 virtual branch fice or position to be filled. Nominations the start of nominations. Candidates can at these meetings. any fraction thereof, either detail, acting, meeting. may be in writing, with the nomination accept nomination for only one office. Dasia Cowherd, Sec., Br. 234 probationary or permanently, shall imme- Election shall be by mail referendum to be received by the recording secre- Term of office for officers (except the

58 The Postal Record September 2020 SeptemberJanuary 20202013 tary not less than 30 days before the trustee position) is two years, starting vember meeting their willingness to ac- they meet the criteria put forth by the date of the election. The branch elec- Jan. 14, 2021. Term of office for the trust- cept the position. If need be, an election branch bylaws. Upon nomination, every tion shall be by secret mail ballot, with ee position is three years. All members ballot will be mailed to each member and nominee must certify that he or she has ballots to be mailed out within seven in good standing of the NALC and Branch the results will be announced at the De- not served in a supervisory position for days after all nominations are made. 45 may accept nomination. cember union meeting. the 24 months prior to being nominated. Ballots must be postmarked by Dec. 9 The election of officers and delegates All regularly scheduled meetings As per the Branch 191 bylaws, the nomi- to be considered valid. Dec. 10 will be will be by secret ballot at the Dec. 10 regu- are held at the American Legion, 107 N. nation form must be filled out and re- the date of the election. A member may lar branch meeting. No write-in votes will Broadway Ave., Urbana, at 7 p.m. on the ceived at the union office within 114 days bring his/her ballot to the Dec. 10 meet- be accepted. Voting hours will be 4:30 to first Wednesday of the month. following the date of nomination. ing and give the ballot to a member of 8:30 p.m., with the regular branch meet- Jonathan Gray, Sec., Br. 784 Elections will be held by secret ballot the election committee. They must do ing starting at 6:30 p.m. at 150 N. Lime- at the regular branch monthly meeting so in person and no later than 6 p.m. stone St., Room 221, Springfield. Waco, Texas on Dec. 16 from 4 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. at the union office located at 409 Old Dupont Manuel Mairena, Pres., Br. 1280 Requests for absentee ballots must Because of COVID-19 social distanc- Road, Wilmington, and results will be an- be made individually in writing to the ing, Branch 404 passed a motion on Aug. nounced at the end of the Dec. 16 branch Sioux Falls, South Dakota election committee at P.O. Box 345, 6 to bypass the branch bylaws for the up- meeting. This shall serve as official notice to Springfield, OH 45501. Absentee ballots coming branch elections. Nominations Write-in votes are not permitted. all members of Branch 491 that nomina- can be requested between Nov. 13 and will be held via Zoom during the regular tions for all positions for officers and Nov. 30. All ballots must be returned by branch meeting on Oct. 1. If elections Donna Staring, Sec., Br. 191 for delegates to the South Dakota State Dec. 10 by 8:30 p.m. are necessary, elections will be done by Association convention, which will be Brian D. Gourillis, Sec., Br. 45 secret ballot and mailed out to the mem- Zanesville, Ohio held in Rapid City, Sept. 17-18, 2021. bership. Ballots should be mailed to P.O. This is an official notice to members All nominations for both shall be made Starkville, Mississippi Box 8753, Waco, TX 76714, Attn: Election of Branch 63 that nominations for the at the regular monthIy branch meeting, Nominations for the election of of- Committee, by Oct. 30. election of officers will be held at the held at the Labor Temple, 101 S. Fairfax ficers of Branch 2291 will be in writing The committee will count the ballots regular branch meeting at 1540 Mariah Ave., Sioux Falls, on Nov. 12 at 6:30 p.m. and must be received by the secretary no and have election decisions by the regu- Drive, Zanesville, on Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. Nominations will be accepted from the later than Oct. 3. Nominations will be ac- lar branch meeting via Zoom on Nov. 5. Candidates must accept nominations at floor, by any member in good standing, cepted for the following branch offices: Please make sure your address is up to the time made. If absent, nominations Election Notices and such nominees must be present to president, vice president and secretary- date with the branch. may also be made in writing, but must be accept or notify the recording secretary treasurer. The term of office will be one Everett Wyllie, Pres., Br. 404 received by the branch secretary at P.O. year, starting Jan. 1, 2021. Election Notices must be or president in writing of their willing- Box 3214 , Zanesville, OH 43702-3214, no submitted to The Postal Re- ness to accept, if nominated, prior to The election will be by secret ballot Wausau, Wisconsin later than Oct. 16. the meeting. at the regular branch meeting on Nov. 3 Nominations will be held for the follow- cord, not to other offices at at 4:30 p.m. at Casa Bravo, 123 Hwy 12, Nominations for branch officers will NALC. The Constitution for Gov- The election, if necessary, will be be made at the Nov. 9 branch meeting. ing branch officers for a term of two years conducted by mailed secret ballot, and Starkville. Requests for absentee bal- ernment of Federal and Sub- Nominations will be for the offices of pres- beginning Jan. 1, 2021: president/shop must be received no later than 5 p.m. on lots must be made to any of the current steward, vice president, financial secre- ordinate Branches requires branch officers no later than Oct. 22. ident, vice president, secretary, treasurer Dec. 9, as results will be announced at tary-treasurer, recording secretary, chief and one trustee position. Election results that notice be mailed to mem- the regular December branch meeting. Nick Gerteis, Pres., Br. 2291 trustee and one trustee. Candidates may will be announced, if necessary, at the bers no fewer than 45 days Mark DeBelts, Pres., Br. 491 accept nominations for only one office. before the election (Article Tidewater Virginia Dec. 14 branch meeting. The candidates elected president Joe Brouch, Sec., Br. 215 5, Section 4). Branch secre- S. Suburban Mgd., Illinois This is an official notification to all and vice president shall be delegates to members of Branch 247. In accordance the national and state conventions that taries must remember the time This is official notice to all Branch Wilmington, Delaware difference between deadline 4016 membes that nominations for del- with Article 5 of the National Constitu- take place during their terms of office. tion and Article 5 of Branch 247 bylaws, This is official notice to all members Elections will be held on Nov. 21, at the for submission of notices— egates to the 2021 Illinois state conven- of Branch 191 that nominations for the tion will take place at the regular branch the nominations for all officers for Branch same time and location as the nomina- the 10th of the month—and following offices and positions will be tions, and will be done by secret ballot. Bal- meeting on Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the 247, along with the delegates to the 2021 held at the regular branch meeting on publication of the subsequent American Legion Post 615, 17423 S. 67th Virginia state convention, will take place lots will be mailed to the home addresses issue of the magazine, e.g., Wednesday, Nov. 18, at the branch hall, of eligible members on Oct. 23 per request. Court, Tinley Park. at 7812 Warrick Blvd., Newport News. All located at 409 Old Dupont Road, Wilm- November’s deadline is for the Ballots must be mailed back to the Election Candidates must accept nomination candidates must be present, except in the ington: president, vice president, sec- December publication. at the time made or, if absent, in writing case of an unforeseen emergency, to be retary, treasurer, sergeant-at-arms, two Committee at P.O. Box 3214, Zanesville, OH to the branch recording secretary by the nominated at the Oct. 6 regular meeting, trustee positions and all shop steward 43702-3214, and must be received by 3 p.m. on Nov. 13. At that time, the election time of nomination. which begins at 7:30 p.m. positions. All positions are a two-year If necessary, the election of del- term. By virtue of their office, the presi- committee will collect the ballots begin to egates to the state convention will be The officers to be elected are president, tally. Write-in votes are not permitted. vice president, secretary, treasurer, health dent and vice president are delegates to by secret ballot at the regular branch the national convention, provided that Tony West, Sec., Br. 63 meeting on Nov. 10 at the same time benefit representative, five trustees, ser- and location. geant-at-arms and chaplain. By virtue of this office, the president shall be a dele- Daniel C. Smith, Pres., Br. 4016 gate to all conventions. Upon nomination, Regarding Election Notices Springfield, Ohio the candidate must certify that he/she has not served in a supervisory capacity for the This is official notice to members of 24 months prior to the nomination. Election Notices must be DC 20001-2144. Include the Branch 45 that nominations for the offices The election will be handled through submitted to The Postal Record, following information: type of of president, vice president, recording sec- secret mail ballots to the members’ last retary, assistant recording secretary, finan- not to other offices at NALC. item (Election Notice), where it cial secretary, treasurer, sergeant-at-arms, known addresses, which must be received The Constitution for Govern- comes from, the person send- MBA representative, health benefits repre- by the election committee in November. ment of Federal and Subordi- ing it, and how to contact the sentative and one trustee, as well as nomi- Please notify the branch secretary of any nate Branches requires that sender. nations for delegates to the 2021 state and change of address you may have had as notice be mailed to members soon as possible. The results will be an- To submit items by e-mail: 2022 national conventions will be held at no fewer than 45 days before Send to [email protected] the regular branch meeting on Nov. 12. nounced at the Dec. 1 regular branch meet- ing. the election (Article 5, Section with the branch city and state The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m., at 150 4). Branch secretaries must North Limestone St., Room 221, Spring- William Whiting Jr., Pres., Br. 247 as the subject. The item can be field. remember the time difference in the body of the e-mail or as All candidates for office or delegates Urbana, Illinois between deadline for submis- an attachment in either Corel must be present at the November meeting This is official notice to all members sion of notices—the 10th of the WordPerfect or Microsoft Word when nominated, or submit in writing their of Branch 784 that nominations for month—and publication of the (not Microsoft Works). Include willingness to serve if elected, through a elected officers will be held at the regular subsequent issue of the maga- the same information as listed member in good standing in attendance branch meeting on Nov. 4. The offices zine, e.g., August’s deadline is above for items sent by mail. If at the meeting. This signed statement up for election are president, vice presi- for the September publication. will be presented to the recording sec- dent, secretary, treasurer and sergeant- you do not receive an acknowl- retary at the November meeting prior to at-arms. Each office will serve a term of To submit items by mail: edgment that your e-mail was the start of nominations. Candidates can one year. All nominees must be present Mail to The Postal Record, 100 received, please call The Postal accept nomination for only one office. to accept or decline their nominations, Indiana Ave. NW, Washington, Record at 202-662-2851. Term of office for officers (except the or else signify in writing prior to the No-

September 2020 SeptemberJanuary 20202013 The Postal Record 59 59 Veterans Group For more information, go to nalc.org/veterans

Join the NALC Veterans Group today VETERANS he NALC Veterans Group is more veterans at nalc.org/veterans. like, and your GUIDE than 13,700 members strong. The NALC Veterans Group has its invoice will T Launched in 2015, the group’s own space and great camaraderie, all calculate your primary goal is to provide a tangible ex- of which was on display at our 2018 total cost au- pression of sincere thanks for continued national convention in Detroit, when tomatically. service, as well as to provide a meaning- group members in attendance wore Next, click ful forum for NALC’s military veterans. their patriotic red Veterans Group T- “Print Invoice” To join the group, you must be an shirts. It was an amazing sight to see and mail your NALC member in good standing— thousands of specially outfitted mem- payment active or retired—who also is a military bers literally wearing their pride— along with veteran. Members of the NALC Auxil- shoulders back and chins up. the invoice to: The Veterans iary also are eligible. If you are a vet- NALC Veterans Guide and pin eran and wish to join, you can request Don’t forget about the Veterans Group Group Order, that members that a sign-up card be sent to you, memorabilia that is available to purchase. c/o National receive upon Group members can buy these special joining the join online at nalc.org/join-veterans Association V E N or use the sign-up form below. union-made T-shirts from NALC’s Supply NALC Veter- T E R A of Letter Car- ans Group Once you’ve joined the group, you’ll Department—plus new hats, drawstring riers, 100 be sent a Veterans Group lapel pin, bags, challenge coins and patches. The Indiana Ave. NW, Washington, DC along with a letter of thanks from NALC hat (available in black or camouflage) and 20001-2144. Alternatively, you can or- President Fredric Rolando and a Veterans the patch carry the group’s logo. der by phone and pay with a credit card Guide on behalf of the union. Only NALC Veterans Group members by calling the NALC Supply Department at The NALC Veterans Group is designed are able to buy these items, and it’s easy 202-662-2873. to provide members information and to do. Simply visit nalc.org, click on the tools specific to veterans’ rights and “Members Only” button in the upper right- Always remember, brothers and sis- benefits within the U.S. Postal Service. It hand corner and sign in. If you’re a current ters: Serving you is my job, and serving also gives veterans a sense of family and group member, an icon labeled “Veterans our communities is all of our jobs. As I more brotherhood/sisterhood. Group” will appear on your home page. always say, “Help those in need, be- There also have been special stories Click on it to access a fillable order form cause you never know when it might be about individual veterans that highlight for a T-shirt ($15 each), patch ($2 each), you in need.” their personal military history or their cur- drawstring bag ($10 each) and hat ($15 This month’s column was written by rent work in their communities. You can each). All prices include shipping. Assistant to the President for Community also find information and news about You can order all of the items you’d Services Christina Vela Davidson. Free Join the NALC Veterans Group to join The NALC Veterans Group is designed to provide NALC members—both active and retired letter carriers—who are also military veterans the ability to connect CompleteComplete this this form form and and mail mail it to: it to: with fellow NALC veterans and stay in- NALCNALC Veterans Veterans Group, Group, c/o c/o NALC, NALC, formed on issues of importance to letter 100100 Indiana Indiana Ave., Ave., N.W., N.W., Washington, Washington, DC DC20001-2144 20001-2144 carrier veterans. It is free to join. Members receive a pin as a symbol of gratitude for your military service and membership in NALC. If you are interested in joining the group, complete the sign-up card at right and mail it to the address includ- ed. A fillable version is also available at nalc.org/veterans.

60 The Postal Record September 2020

September 2020 Nalcrest Update

to was getting an opportunity to use the pool. to check on them...they were gone! Oh no! What Thus, limited hours starting at 8 a.m. and a lim- happened to them? ited number of swimmers was necessary. Now you Well, it turns out that because they had be- understand why many residents get up early and come so attached to the person who brought head right for the pool. We recently extended the them to Nalcrest, they flew themselves all the number of hours that the pool is available, much way back to where they were raised! to the delight of our residents. Oh well—maybe next year, Lisa! A lot of other activities available at Nalcrest Don Southern also had to be addressed, including bocce, horseshoes, tennis and shuffleboard. Our resi- From the Trustees dents have been more than cooperative with Apply to live at Nalcrest the restrictions and have understood the ne- For an application to live at Nalcrest, visit he dog days of summer are here, and many of cessity of it all. While masks, social distancing, nalc.org/nalcrest, or call 863-696-1121. Tour Nalcrest residents have found the perfect extra hand-washing and using sanitizing wipes remedy! Early in the morning, even before most have been a change for all of us, everyone has other people have had their first cup of coffee, been extremely cooperative. they quietly exit their apartments and head for In closing, I want to share a cute story with Nalcrest Trustees the pool. The cool, quiet walk under the tree-lined you. It seems that our property manager, Lisa, path of flowering shrubs and vines that leads to has a soft side for the wildlife at Nalcrest. Some- the pool patio is refreshing. But why so early? how, in conversation with an acquaintance, NALC President Fredric Rolando Well, the early bird gets the worm, they say. Lisa learned of a flock of baby ducks that were NALC Secretary-Treasurer Nicole Rhine Because of the coronavirus pandemic, restric- in need of a home. Naturally, she thought Na- NALC Director of Retired Members Dan Toth tions to Nalcrest’s leisurely lifestyle had to be lcrest, with all of its natural wooded areas and made, including the use of the pool. What result- many lakes would be the perfect spot. Heck, if NALC Trustee Mike Gill ed was a revision of the hours that the pool was we can have wild turkeys raise a brood here, Nalcrest Trustees President Matty Rose available. We had to ensure that all of the pool fur- and Sandhill cranes raise their babies here, why niture, rails, etc., were disinfected and that proper not ducks? Right? Wrong! Nalcrest Trustees Vice President Tom Young social distancing was enforced. We also hoped to Oh, she took them in, all right. But when she Nalcrest Trustees Vice President Don Southern put a plan in place so that everyone who wanted showed up for work early that Monday morning Retiree Reports

Hartford, Connecticut Please stay safe and drink plenty of fluids The Postal Service is critical in this pandemic when delivering your mail in this hot, humid for delivery of medicine and as an employer for hope we can resume our union meetings for weather. veterans and women. Write your representa- Branch 86 in September. The COVID-19 deaths I Ed Mulrenan, Branch 86 tives to keep the Postal Service viable. and cases have been reduced here in Connecti- Register to vote, vote, donate to the NALC cut. Sadly, many of the deaths are nursing home Letter Carrier Political Fund. Benghazi was fake; residents. Included are my 91-year-old ex-moth- New Orleans, Louisiana Russian bounties on our troops are real. Don’t er-in-law and my sister’s father-in-law, 95. et in trouble, good trouble, necessary believe the hype. BLM Is America; Boogaloo Great to see outdoor cafes and breweries, “Gtrouble.” —John Robert Lewis boys ain’t. etc., reopening around here. They generate a Justice is on the ballot on Nov. 3. For retirees, “I love America more than any other coun- considerable amount of BBM advertising here there is an overwhelming reason to vote. PMG try in the world, and, exactly for this reason I in Connecticut. We need the revenue. De(no)Joy is a threat to our pension, benefits insist on the right to criticize her perpetually.” I understand there has been a steady in- and democracy. Personally I’ll be voting early in —James Baldwin crease in revenues here at the P.O. person. Everyone has to make a decision based Stanley L. Taylor, Branch 124 as well. Friends of mine, retired postal workers on their personal situation. GeauxVote.com will in Arizona, tell me about very hot temps: 115 give you voting information. degrees in Tucson. It is very hot here in Con- Branch 124 will hold nominations for branch Paterson, New Jersey necticut, with 90 degrees or higher, and similar officers in October. Make sure your current ad- ith the heat extending to most (if not all) temps throughout the Northern states with very dress on record is correct to receive a ballot. If high humidity as well. Wof our nation, one would think that the vi- not, make sure to contact branch secretary to rus would disappear for the time being. At least Our new postmaster general needs to ap- update your information. point some postal employees or retirees with those were the rumors in the winter months, Crispus Attucks had a vision; so did John when the virus was said to not to survive in heat the folks running the Post Office in Washington. Lewis. One died to create America when it was extremities. Pushing starting times for letter carriers to 9 a colony of Britain; the other one was damn By the virus not stopping during the summer a.m. is not the way to stay safe and healthy in near killed at Edmund Pettus Bridge to fulfill the months, it shows that, due to the virus starting view of the hot, sticky summer weather. ongoing effort to make that vision true. William a new spread or spike, how little we really know Please register to vote and support members Moore died in 1963 to make that American ideal of Congress in both political parties who sup- of justice for everyone. W.W. Law of Savannah, to try to stop the infecting and re-infecting our port our retirees and the Postal Service itself. GA, devoted his life to that vision. One white, population. Many small communities have the post office at one Black, letter carriers all. Clarence Acox of Letter carriers, retirees and their families the center of their town’s life. Branch 124 was among those unheralded foot must take every precaution possible in order to Please maintain good relations with your soldiers for justice, just as the late Rev. C.T. Viv- avoid getting infected and thus spreading the postal patrons and local businesses. They have ian, who, after being punched in the mouth, im- virus to other family, friends and relatives. Wear helped us in the past with the NALC food drive. mediately rose up to register voters. Democra- the necessary protection to stay healthy, stay We need them now more than ever since our cies are fragile and only as robust as its voters’/ safe and enjoy the summer. May food drive was postponed. citizens’ participation. Joseph Murone, Branch 120

September 2020 The Postal Record 61 Branch Items

Anchorage, Alaska the mail late to us. The plan now is to just send I tell them to do the job. I tell the rank-and-file out some mail and if the rest is late, they will carriers to follow management’s instructions he upcoming national election is becoming just delay it and deliver the next day. the best you can, then inform your shop steward Tvery important when it comes to the Postal It has been 64 days since the House passed of the violation. One violation at a time; one day Service. With the ongoing pandemic, many $25 billion to help keep USPS alive. The Senate at a time. You get a call to action, you answer it; will do vote-by-mail or absentee voting. Both must past the HEROES Act now. one phone call at a time. require a secure Postal Service, yet there are Stay safe. I tell my shop stewards, do the work. Take it some who cast doubt on our ability to ensure Dennis Spoto, Branch 425 one day at a time. Break it down. One grievance a trustworthy collection and delivery of the bal- at a time, one request for information at a time, lots. What I don’t hear are concerns from those one interview at a time. Don’t get blinded by the very same people about some other very sen- Boston, Massachusetts enormity of the chaos. A carrier informs you of sitive mailings we handle. Why don’t we hear yet another violation of the contract, you take concerns about tax returns, tax refund checks, anagement has initiated its new program, Expedited to Street/Afternoon Sortation action; one grievance at a time. Census mailings, Social Security mailings, over- M We’re all in this together. We’re only going seas military ballots, etc? The allegations of (ESAS) in the Brookline, Meford and Roxbury Stations. These stations are already hurting for to survive by sticking together and working to- fraud through voting by mail has been proven to gether. be nearly non-existent. carriers due to COVID-19 absences, inability to I encourage all of you to request absentee hire new employees and numerous retirements. Chuck Goushian, Branch 540 ballots. In Alaska, you don’t need a reason to How can you initiate a program when you cannot request an absentee ballot. I’ve been doing it put a body behind every route? Carriers in these Carmel, Indiana for years and it’s very convenient. Now we need offices are working three-hour splits already, so to ensure that we don’t let the new PMG destroy how does the afternoon setup for the next day t should be abundantly clear in 2020 to each our livelihood. Please contact your member of get done? Isn’t it just like the USPS to take a bad Iand every NALC member how important it is to Congress and ask them to support the Postal situation and make it a total disaster? All under voluntarily contribute to our Letter Carrier Politi- Service, whether it’s for COVID-19 relief or en- the direction of new PMG Dejoy, who has more cal Fund. It is crystal clear that our new bundle suring that mail is not delayed. Your job de- than $33 million of his own money invested in of DeJoy is going to try to wreak havoc on letter pends on it. our competition. carriers and our livelihoods. The writing is on We recently had two carriers who had ve- Coronavirus cases have made a gradual the wall and we must fight back, and we must hicle accidents while delivering mail. In each comeback, with eight confirmed positive tests fight back now! Money talks in Washington, and instance, when managers arrived, they failed in the last three weeks. This was after a few that town is a pay-to-play town, whether we like to even inquire whether the carrier was injured weeks with limited positive cases. CCAs are it or not. We must be involved, because our ca- or how they were coping with the accident. still being moved from station to station only reers and the future of the Postal Service is very And one of the biggest violators is the Alaska because of curtailed rnail. This blatant viola- much up in the air with the arrival of the new postmaster general who, coincidentally, (sar- District’s own manager of safety. Unfortunately, tion of MOU M-01915 has resulted in numerous casm added for special effect) happened to be this is a story I hear too often. I’ve been in plenty grievances being filed. CCAs have resigned due a big donor in the past to the Trump campaign. of safety meetings where I hear higher levels of to the added stress of this mismanagement. The Also, on a different note, the Postal Service management preach on how very important branch has filed a Class Action I Boston District is going to be used as a bargaining chip in the safety is and the lengths employees should go grievance asking for a monetary penalty for all 2020 election. There should be no doubt in any- to be safe. Talk is cheap. If it wasn’t for the NALC future violations. one’s mind that we can handle a national vote forcing management to follow safety protocols, On a brighter note: The branch would like to there would be many more unsafe acts. Be safe by mail in the upcoming presidential election. congratulate the 13 CCAs recently converted to This would be a great revenue opportunity and out there, brothers and sisters. full-time employees. Well deserved and still tak- Jim Raymond, Branch 4319 another chance to show the American people ing too long. We would also like to congratulate how we deliver for them. The Postal Service the most recent Branch 34 retirees: Jean Stin- and our future shouldn’t be a political issue, Bergen Co. Mgd., New Jersey son, Tommy Butera, Charles Hanegan, Michael because we are showing just how important we Kidd, John Keegan and William “Billy” Moroney. are delivering for our communities during the ail deliveries could be delayed by a day or Enjoy your well-earned retirements. more under cost-cutting efforts being im- COVID-19 pandemic. M Jerry McCarthy, Branch 34 posed by the new postmaster general. Just what I would take great DeJoy in delivering and the hardworking letter carriers want to hear. picking up election ballots along my route. I Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-NJ-09) today reacted Camden, New Jersey Merged hope and pray after the election that we can to a report in confirming deliver a change-of-address card to the White allegations that the new political leadership of ail is being delayed. Overtime is being House, because it is clear we don’t have an ally the United States Postal Service (USPS) is forc- Mforced on non-ODL carriers every day. Man- currently residing there. I think we must have ing its employees to deliberately delay mail de- agement has stopped abiding by MOUs. Man- lost his letter to Santa when he was a little boy, liveries to Americans. “The deliberate delaying agement forces letter carriers to work in unsafe because he seems to not have any love for us or of Americans’ mail delivery would be a stunning situations. The financial woes of our employer our employer in general. act of sabotage against our postal service,” said are the topic of the day on Capitol Hill. Will USPS Ronnie Roush, Branch 888 Rep. Pascrell, one of the USPS’s biggest cham- be included in the next stimulus bill and get the pions in Congress. “If these reports are accu- financial relief it needs in order to maintain its rate, Trump and his cronies are openly seeking universal mandate? Cincinnati, Ohio to destroy the post office during the worst pub- I’ve heard the talk of gloom and doom since ranch 43 welcomes you to the next round of lic health crisis in a century. Attacks on USPS I started my career 31 years ago. I always took Bmanagerial overburdening, the load tool. not only threaten our economy and the jobs of heed and answered every one of the calls to ac- The load tool is being pushed more vehe- 600,000 workers.” tion over the years. Even with all that talk, I al- mently than the actual delivery of the mail. Su- It was always our job in the morning to case ways felt assured that reason would ultimately pervisors lording over carriers as they load their all mail and get out at a reasonable time to de- prevail and that I was secure in my job. This is trucks, “Did you use your load tool? Use your liver to our customers. Over the years, the mail the first time I’m no longer sure about people load tool.” coming from the plant came later and later, and using reason and logic to help them make their Load tool. Load tool. Load tool. forced the carriers to start later and get on the decisions. What do I do about this? What do I Toad stool. road sometimes as late as noon. Rather than tell my branch members when they ask me how Our routes have been adjusted to a set time change the plant hours, it was easier to just get about all this? when the load tool wasn’t an option on our

62 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 scanners. Is this little juxtaposition accounted tial election in November may still be a problem their vehicle inspection, get accountables, set for in our “scheduled leave times” that man- if Trump can convince people to doubt the re- up their scanner, retrieve their parcel hamper, agement’s cuddly little pet tool sets for us? No. sults. line up the SPRs in delivery order, retrieve the Let’s face it, scanning every parcel while loading Mark Woodbury, Branch 2555 mail cased and pulled down the previous after- our trucks takes more time, but noon, pull the hot case and then immediately the computerized time compu- clock to the street to load their vehicle and head tations doesn’t account for that. to their route. There is no casing of mail in the Don’t worry, though, manage- morning. Letter carriers withdraw the hot case ment deals with that minor prob- preferential flats and are expected to route lem by following the advice of the them in order of delivery on the street. Upon re- placards they place around the turning to the office, carriers will complete the offices. Just mask it! The new pro- normal return-to-office afternoon duties. After cedural implementations from completion of these duties, carriers then case on high have stripped DeJoy out and pull down all mail distributed to the route of carrying mail. These anach- in preparation for the next day’s delivery. As ex- ronistic policies are burgeoning pected, National has filed a grievance regarding upon ’60s-era treatment. this initiative. Elsewhere in the Queen City, The other change they are looking to do is Jose Colon Jr. was recognized for convert as many routes to one six-shelf piece of his actions in helping an elderly equipment. It is stated that the carrier’s input is customer who had fallen while Pawtucket, RI Branch 55 members make a muscle for important, but the last time case consolidations also having to deal with her dog. MDA at their July union meeting as they kicked off their were done here, not much carrier input was con- Thank you, Jose, for continuing MDA fundraising efforts during the July MDA Branch sidered. More smoke and mirrors? to provide exceptional customer Challenge. The branch raised $5,280. Thank you to all who have contacted your service in the face of leadership senators to include postal relief funding in any that has devalued the sanctity of future bills. It is amazing how 92 percent of such service. Evansville, Indiana American voters support direct funding for us, Branch 43 membership meetings are still t is with great regret that I must announce that but it is a battle in Washington. canceled until further notice due to COVID-19 IBranch 377 will not have its annual retirees’ Our thoughts are with the family and friends as well as all training meetings other than CCA dinner during the October branch meeting, as of retired member Elvin Waclawik, who recently conversion classes. we have done for many years past. passed away. Until next month, in solidarity— We have heard great raves about last year’s Brian Prisinzano, Branch 205 Jacob Bingham, Branch 43 retirees’ dinner at the Evansville Country Club. Unfortunately, the virus pandemic we currently find ourselves in precludes any large meetings Fresno, California East Lansing, Michigan of branch members, especially so when we are n Sept. 17, we will hear PMG Louis DeJoy keep saying it can’t get any worse for the Post speaking of our older retired members. Orespond to direct questioning of the House I Office, and then it does. First it was COVID-19, Evansville has two of our stations that are in- Committee on Oversight and Reform. He will be which is like the Trump of diseases: every time volved in the Expedited Street/Afternoon Sorta- questioned about the directive of delaying of you think you’ve seen its worst, you are sadly tion (ESAS) test. It was somewhat helpful that the mail. The Postal Service has already stated disappointed. And now, USPS-hating Trump has our national officers were able to mitigate the the changes (delaying) had not “originated from handed over day-to-day operation of the Postal test procedures, and the carriers can now case the Postal Service Headquarters,” and “should Service to a henchman with deep financial in- in the small parcels and pull their routes down not be treated as official statements on Postal terests in our competitors. With DeJoy as PMG, in the morning, instead of the stupidity of doing Service policy.” If that’s the case, where did we basically have a seriously conflicted, UPS- so in the afternoons. these changes “originate” from? I think we invested fox in charge of our henhouse. And, he Every station in Evansville has Article 8 viola- all know that answer. Somebody who flat-out hasn’t wasted any time sabotaging our delivery tions as the daily norm, not the exception. Local wants to destroy our Postal Service. Again, we systems. management must get permission from the dis- all know who that is. From the time I write this What do you do when it’s apparent our new trict to call in ODL carriers on their non-service article, to the time you read it. The White House PMG is working hand-in-tiny-hand with Trump to days, even when there is eight or 10 hours of can lie and deny many things about its posi- tion—something it has done on a daily basis. damage our Postal Service to the extent that it overtime worked by the non-ODL carriers work- Many people in Congress are upset by these casts doubt on our ability to deliver ballots in a ing off of their assignments. Twelve-hour and 60-hour violations are changes to the most valued national govern- timely manner? What can we tell customers who ment agency. NALC activists and congressional worry their votes might not be counted? We owe rampant, each and every week. Just when you think it can’t get any worse, here comes Sorting constituents are letting them know how we feel them the truth—that for the first time in our his- about it. Make no mistake about it. The presi- tory, the best interests of the public are being Equipment Rationalization (SER). It’s a good thing there is no law against stu- dent firmly intends to suppress registered vot- sublimated to the worst impulses of a politician ers’ votes by mail. This is the biggest attempt to pidity; otherwise, many of our higher postal who’d gladly wreck our hallowed institution and sabotage our Postal Service ever, more so dur- lose 606,000 good-paying jobs in the process managers would be in the federal penitentiary. ing a national election. We must all vote, vote by rather than suffer the ignominy of a personal Al Griffin, Branch 377 mail and vote early. defeat. PMG DeJoy claims the president has noth- What can we tell them except to vote as early ing to do with these changes. This from a man as possible? Here in Michigan, recent legisla- Fargo-West Fargo, North Dakota who has contributed more than $2.5 million to tion easing voting restrictions means I don’t hese are trying times at the Postal Service. Republican candidates since the 2016 elections have to wait until Nov. 3 to express my displea- TNot only are we dealing with the coronavirus and $360,000 so far to the Trump campaign in sure; I can and will vote by mail on Sept. 19. daily, but also with the financial instability of 2020. Postal unions need the help of Congress In the Aug. 4 primary election in Michigan, in the Service and the many sudden changes tak- for the Postal Service to survive. Do your part by a test of mail-in-voting, the Post Office got an ing place around the country. calling or writing to them. PMG DeJoy was put in A+ delivering 1.6 million ballots to county clerk The West Fargo office is one of the test loca- that office by the president for a reason. Time to offices. Contrary to what Trump would have you tions for the Expediated Street/Afternoon Sorta- stop complaining about the parcels and start on believe, there were no delays and no problems tion (ESAS). For those unfamiliar: Carriers clock the president and PMG DeJoy. delivering these votes. However, the presiden- in, attend the service or safety talk, perform Jesse Dominguez, Branch 231

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 63 Branch Items

It is painful to accept what is happening to without health and life insurance, and without Greensboro, North Carolina the Postal Service. We can no longer claim we a defined pension plan (among other benefits). reensboro’s own PMG speaks with “forked are a service. The American people deserve bet- The PMG is playing loose with established Gtongue.” ter. As carriers, we are committed to the service delivery standards, the result being the public’s Upon being appointed, DeJoy claimed he we give our customers. We feel that we are a loss of confidence in our ability to deliver mes- looked forward to working with the postal part of the communities we serve. We are now sages in a timely manner. While USPS has spent unions. This, despite the fact that, as he decades at the top of the government agency amassed his fortune as CEO of New Breed Logis- favorability list, DeJoy appears to only wish to tics, squeezing private corporate profit from the disrupt. public post office, he ferociously fought union- Finally, did you really think the “Caser-Street- ization. Directly contradicting his claim, before er” program was gone? It is now being rolled out even meeting the leaders of the four postal in bits and pieces instead of as a grand design. unions or other postal stakeholders, DeJoy is- Brothers and sisters, this is not the time not sued drastic new work rules that hinder the to support NALC’s objectives. services provided to the public. Accordingly, on Michael L. Willadsen, Branch 86 Aug. 3, patrons at Greensboro’s Main PO were told retail hours were being cut—closed Satur- days, as well as lunchtimes, Monday through Hopkins, Minnesota Friday—leaving just more than 30 hours of or those who are regular readers of the weekly window operation there. FBranch Items, you are likely familiar with the On Aug. 7, already on the defensive because semi-regular tirades from Branch 4319 Presi- both Democratic and Republican members of dent Jim Raymond regarding the Northland/Da- Congress were bombarding him with constitu- Jersey City, NJ Branch 42 members thank kotas/Alaska Step B team. In the July issue, the ent criticisms over serious disruption in mail submission from Mr. Raymond once again has service across the United States, DeJoy attend- local philanthropist Donald Hong, center, for a donation of masks. an all-too-familiar theme. Mr. Raymond would ed his first “open session” of the Postal Service have the membership believe the contractual Board of Governors. DeJoy gave “strong assur- rights of Branch 4319 have been trampled by ance” (!) that he is not beholden to President being asked to participate in the destruction of the trust that we worked so hard to foster. This the NALC member of the Step B team once more. Trump and has no plans to disrupt mail-in vot- The sad truth is that Mr. Raymond has chosen to ing to help the president’s upcoming election kind of mismanagement will kill us off far soon- er than the red ink we have been accumulating follow his previous pattern of exaggerations and prospects. half-truths to bolster his own image. But the postal board already knows its new over the last decade. The union meeting for August was canceled, The simple truth is, Mr. Raymond decries the PMG: Last March, unanimous authorization by manner in which his members are treated by the Republican-majority board bolstered then- and future meetings will likely also be canceled due to the pronounced increase of new cases the Step B team, knowing his version of events PMG ’s ask of Congress for will not be challenged in front of those he rep- multibillion-dollar aid to get USPS through the of COVID-19 in the state. While we were able to hold a meeting in July, I don’t feel that it’s likely resents. Mr. Raymond wishes to have his griev- COVID-19 crisis. Bipartisan House and Senate ances heard by a Step B team in Region 2. This versions both provided billions in grants. Postal that those conditions will present themselves again anytime soon. I ask members to please would give him the opportunity to influence de- relief was blocked by Trump’s threatened veto of be aware of the likelihood that we may have to cisions currently not afforded to him. The time the entire $2.2 trillion CARES package! conduct meetings online. has come for Mr. Raymond to put his money Recently, as Trump has intensified his move where his mouth is. Mr. Raymond frequently Larry Wellborn, Branch 443 to sabotage vote-by-mail and destroy USPS, brags about his “Steward College.” Use it as a the governors surrendered. They appointed format to teach representatives that not every Trumpite DeJoy, who remains silent on Senate Hartford, Connecticut case will result in a win or everything requested deliberations rather than demanding COVID re- in the remedy. In addition, let the attendees “perfect storm” is coming together to wreak lief comparable to multibillion postal aid in the know that if a Step B decision does not render House-passed HEROES Act. And, in the name A havoc on USPS, its employees and the pub- lic, and—quite possibly—the general election in a favorable result, perhaps a little honest soul- of “economizing,” DeJoy is pillaging the public searching will explain why. Of course, history post office. November. In my 39-plus years as a postal employee, I has taught us this simply is not possible with Richard A. Koritz, Branch 630 cannot remember there being a more perilous certain individuals. In the case of Mr. Raymond, period of time for our industry. While the new I fully anticipate another angry outburst in the Trump-appointed PMG has testified that he was near future because of some perceived trans- Hagerstown, Maryland not put in place by Trump to wreak havoc on the gression by the Northland/Dakotas/Alaska Step he downtown office of Hagerstown has been USPS, and further testified that he is not tak- B team. Until that time, I will patiently wait in my Tchosen as a location for the Expedited Street ing his marching orders from Trump, who could recliner enjoying a book in my retirement. Afternoon Sortation test that management is possibly believe him? Political patronage jobs Warren Wehmas, Branch 2942 pushing in many places. This is the program given to heavy contributors to the president’s that has carriers reporting for work and imme- party were supposed to go by the wayside as a diately hitting the street, and then upon return, result of the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970. Jackson, Michigan sorting mail in the afternoon for the following Yet, PMG DeJoy, who has probably never been hat is the union doing about this?” I day and then pulling it down. On top of the will- inside a post office lobby, never mind familiar “Wam sure our elected leaders are plan- ful delay of mail happening before we receive with the inner workings, can claim the top spot ning an appropriate action. NALC is known as it, we now fully participate in the further delay due his contributing millions to the Republican a union that will back its fellow unionists. Ve- of mail. A piece of mail destined for delivery Party and heading up Trump’s inauguration gas Frontier Hotel workers on strike, 1998. We on a Monday may not make the truck, and be committee. have a break in our session and about 4,000 delayed until Tuesday. That letter would not get The Postal Service has been downsized NALC union members joined our brothers and sorted until Tuesday afternoon for Wednesday enough over the past 15 to 20 years. Hundreds sisters on the picket line. A little action and delivery. If that letter was mis-sorted to the of thousands of employees have been shrunk several Branch 36 members were given an all- wrong route, it would not get re-directed until from the rolls. Letter carriers’ vehicles are, on expense stay at the Graybar Hotel. Wednesday for casing that afternoon, and de- average, more than 20 years old. New hires to We have ammo; we should use it. Every day livery on Thursday. replace retired career employees spend years when you leave mail behind, fill out a PS Form

64 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 1571, Undelivered Mail. Have the supervisor Knoxville, Tennessee least carriers are not as rushed when casing in sign it, as he/she should. If they fail to sign, their air-conditioned stations upon return—on you sign “Refused to Sign.” You are creating a ike a little child who is told not to do it again, overtime. Always try to find the positive. USPS has come out with another program paper trail and concrete evidence of willful de- L designed to put money in city carriers’ pockets. Leslie Hammett, Branch 2502 laying the mail, a federal crime. Make sure you It is called the Expedited Street/Afternoon Sor- take your copy home, as inspectors have been tation (ESAS) program. It’s a unilateral program known to break into lockers and take away evi- developed to eliminate overtime, have all city Lilburn, Georgia dence. carriers back in eight hours, and send 204-b’s efore I retired as a union official, I tried to The union will file a grievance under Article back to craft. So, in the meantime, grievances Bwin a major monetary settlement for the 31; make copies. If I were in charge, I would are flowing; it is time for city carriers to request branch. That goal eluded me. When I did re- direct every branch to file a federal criminal PS Form 3996 (Overtime Requests) and PS Form tire, I taught the next president how to reach charge against the postmaster general in each 1571 (Curtailment Slips) if they feel that they the goal. On July 6, it came to fruition, but not area a U.S. attorney has an office. Bring the evi- cannot complete their route within eight hours. through any effort on my part. It was through the dence. Also visit your representative and sena- If they deny your request for overtime, they are diligence of my successor, current Branch 1537 tors and bring the evidence. It is time to put the required to advise you of the disposition of your President Melanie Busbee. teeth back into the alligator. PS Form 3996 before you go to the street. Fur- President Busbee filed a grievance two years thermore, in accordance with Article 41.3.g of In closing, I wish to remember my baby ago concerning route inspections. The griev- the National Agreement, they must provide you brother, Detective First Grade Kevin A. Czarto- with a copy of your 3996 and a copy of the cur- ance worked its way through the system all the ryski, a first responder on 9/11. Every birthday, tailment slip. These two forms go hand in hand way to pre-arbitration, where it was settled that he would call and sing “happy birthday,” and I and are critical for any potential grievances that the inspections would be jointly redone. But would do the same on his birthday. The phone the branch may submit on your behalf. as management frequently does, they failed to doesn’t ring anymore on my birthday. Management’s position is based on DOIS. comply, and so a second grievance was filed Cut and roll— Neither Branch 419 or the National Agreement and the Step B DRT resolved that manage- Bob Czartoryski , Branch 232 recognize DOIS as the final decision-maker of ment shall comply and also award city carriers whether a carrier needs auxiliary assistance. $90 each ($2,340) and President Busbee four Carriers are advised to not engage in any heated hours at the overtime rate for having to process Kansas City, Missouri discussions involving DOIS numbers as a basis the grievance off the clock. Not a significant o mask or not to mask, that is the question. for denial of a request for auxiliary assistance/ amount, but still better than nothing at all and T’Tis it nobler to suffer the stares and snide overtime. The key point is that the carrier must definitely not even close to my goal. remarks questioning what you believe, or suffer inform management as soon as it is realized So what did management do? They again that overtime or auxiliary assistance will be nec- the consequences of public/peer pressure? As failed to comply, and so another nonc­ ompliance essary to complete their assignment. of this writing, there has been three confirmed grievance was filed. It, too, worked its way positive cases of COVID-19 in Independence. Tony Rodriguez, Branch 419 through the system, only this time it went to ar- During the Region 5 rap session breakout on bitration. The arbitrator ruled for the union and safety, conducted by Richard Thurman (Branch Las Vegas, Nevada awarded Lilburn carriers $500 each ($19,000). 343), we discussed the carrier culture regard- reetings from fabulous Las Vegas during Branch 1537 is a small branch, so even though ing safety. Basically, it was noted how many G“non-soon”season. Those of us born and the $90 per carrier is no small change, that carriers fail to do something as simple as the raised in Las Vegas never called it “monsoon” plus the $19,000 is a huge, huge win totaling daily vehicle check. Now, the scanner asks if season, it was summer rains and floods. Mon- $21,340. I’ve already congratulated Melanie the inspection has been done. And if any safety soon would indicate regularity and that simply on her victory, but will say it again here. Con- deficiencies are found, what did you do about doesn’t happen. We’re as dry as dust because gratulations, Mel; you should be very proud of it? Given that LLVs are old, barely operable and we live in a desert! Hot summer wind is common yourself. I know I’m proud of you, and every city have the propensity to catch fire, I’m using the and about as miserable as it gets when it kicks carrier in Lilburn (union and non-union), owes 10 minutes authorized to cover me in the ac- up dust storms. It will grab the mail right out of you a debt of gratitude for your diligence and cident investigation if the LLV goes incendiary. your hands and send it helter-skelter down the hard work. street. All good letter carriers know you have to Yet many carriers forgo this task to assure their Ken Pajewski, Branch 1537 safety/compliance, to rush to the street. It is the chase it and try to retrieve it. Is that why they call little things that could kill you or get you caught some of our mail “flyers”? Sometimes, if we’re lucky to see one, dust up in a potentially regrettable situation. Louisville, Kentucky devils will make an appearance. A dust devil is a So, what is the mask issue? Upon discovery small sandy tornado-type funnel. They whip up e’re all suffering! Keep your heads up and of the first positive COVID-19 case, carriers were quickly and don’t last very long. We were told as Wstick together. This fight can only be won notified by the Independence postmaster and kids they were the restless spirits of Indian war- together. Branch 30 President Melvin Moore protocols es- riors. Perhaps they’re the spirits of angry letter Nationally, we are all going through this tablished by the Centers for Disease Control and carriers who had to run down the street chasing struggle together. Locally, here in Louisville, we Prevention (CDC) went into effect. The wearing mail. have two stations going through the ESAS test; of masks was mandatory on the workroom floor There is one good thing about having to wear Expedited Street/Afternoon Sortation. In the- to minimize the spread of COVID-19. New proce- a mask or neck gaiter during the pandemic—it ory, you’re supposed to come in the morning, dures call for photographic proof of a COVID-19 protects your nose and mouth from the dirt pull down the mail, your PM cased, then head test taken being submitted to management in whipped up by our hot desert hair dryer blasts. straight to the street. I can only speak for my lieu of reporting for duty. Always try to find the positive. station, but it’s not working. Mail sitting and cut I’m responsible for modifying my safety be- Yes, it’s hard working for the Postal Service off till the next delivery day is bad for business. havior/habits to provide for my family’s security right now. Focusing on dealing with the weather As much as the talk has been to save money, is a distraction from dealing with what’s inside and well-being, which is reason enough for me no money saved over here. Keep contacting the buildings. We have several test stations for to mask up. If during the process, I may protect the innovative new (old) idea of casing mail in Congress, and make sure you’re telling your my co-workers and customers, too, why not? the afternoons instead of the morning to get family and friends to as well. We literally need United in prayers and solidarity. carriers out earlier. It’s not working. The hours all the help we can get. Calvin Davis, Branch 30 reductions are not what were expected. But at Adriane Shanklin, Branch 14

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 65 Branch Items

and I’m told under direction of the District De- resentative, sergeant-at-arms, shop stewards Minneapolis, Minnesota livery Programs, it’s difficult. We await the next and delegates. Make sure you are at the Oct. e all know that first impressions of some- decision. 24 meeting if you intend to run for any position. Wthing shape how we think and feel about Do you stand up for each other and sup- Nominations will be forthcoming at the branch it. But what happens when that “something” port your fellow carriers, or do you bad-mouth meeting in October. You must be in attendance changes? For instance, if the quality of service them and find fault with everyone but yourself? to run for any position. If you are not sure you in your favorite restaurant dropped, your loy- There used to be a time when everyone stuck will be in attendance, do have a letter of intent alty would fade. You would wonder what went up for each other—it appears the “times they for the branch secretary. wrong. are a-changin’.” Remember, an injury to one is May I remind you that most of the officers are We know what our customers feel and think an injury to all! Be a professional carrier, turn either retired or getting ready to retire. All you about us. For years, we have been the most off the vehicle, deliver parcels correctly, do the youngbloods, step up to the plate. The branch trusted federal agency. When under attack by route maintenance. The job you save could be definitely could use some fresh resounding Congress, we have been protected by the loyalty your own. thoughts and ideas. Along those thoughts, we and faithfulness of our patrons. We rely on their United we bargain; divided we beg. have a most important election forthcoming support for our survival. Patty Cramer, Branch 1310 this November—the presidential election, along We are facing a new battle, but this attack is with local and state. Be mindful, be vigilante, be from within. It is a full-scale offensive to discredit watchful! If you are not satisfied with the way and destroy the trust of the American public. In New Jersey Merged things are going, now is the time to do some- the name of efficiency, service standards have abor Day has long been a day set aside to thing about it. been lowered. The rapid restructuring at USPS We must do all in our power to make sure the headquarters has removed qualified individu- Lhonor America’s labor movement and the American worker for their unquestionable con- Postal Service is sustainable! We must save it als and fostered uncertainty. Management’s from itself! compliance to these nonsensical changes is tributions to the development and achieve- ments of this great nation. Each year, we take The American people depend and rely on the guaranteed, as no one’s job is safe. Postal Service for goods and services, as well as This is a carefully crafted plan to devastate time to remember the men and women whose hard work built this country and continue to postal products. We stand ready, able and will- our business and discredit us. If customers are ing advocates of our postal system. Although dissatisfied with our service, they will believe strive to make it the best it can be. There has never been a year when it has been more ap- we may be running out of funds, I do believe we are no longer able to deliver to them in a Congress will do the right thing and find us $25 propriate to honor all of America’s workers, es- timely, trustworthy manner. Their loyalty will billion or so. pecially those on the front line standing in the fade. They will wonder what went wrong. Come to meeting with masks on, social dis- face of COVID-19 every day. This is not the time for complacency or de- tancing and wash your hands! Give to LCPF! spair. We are professionals. We cannot allow Expressions of gratitude have been offered Marshall Wayne Smith, Scribe, Branch 124 our quality of service to drop. It’s time to step from every corner of society and aired on televi- up, speak out and let our customers know we sion, radio and social media, and published in are not giving up on them. We need to ask ev- our newspapers and magazines. Letter carriers Norristown, Pennsylvania eryone to stand up for us by telling their elected stand proudly with our nurses, doctors, EMTs, custodians, grocery workers, transportation ssential workers, how are you? We have officials to sustain, not destroy, USPS. The ac- a new PMG and it looks like he’s moving tions that we take now will shape our future. workers and all first responders as America’s E heroes. It will be the nation’s workers who get pieces around and creating havoc for all crafts. We cannot allow the Service to be destroyed Supervisors can’t hide behind a title and not be on our watch. It’s time to prove what we can ac- the economy back where it was before the pan- demic. We appreciate the kind thoughts and seen, 23 postal executives were reassigned or complish when we work together for a common displaced, and five staffers joined from other cause. words on this Labor Day, but so much more is needed. positions. Now, if I’m am correct, this guy came In solidarity— from a company that helped with the logistics The debate over whether an additional $600 JoAnn Gilbaugh, Branch 9 of the USPS. Now, since the implementation of added to a weekly unemployment check pro- these logistics, we have gotten our mail later vides a disincentive for a person forced out of and later. They say this guy has 35 years of ex- work by the pandemic to return to work points Monterey, California perience in business, but he has zero years of to one inescapable question: How many work- ometimes you’ve just got to shake your experience of moving mail...unless you say he Shead and shrug your shoulders. The new ers hold jobs in which $600 a week is enough has experience in slowing down the mail, as he PMG is making decisions that will affect each to encourage them not to return to work? As the has with the company New Breed and XPO. one of you, no matter which side of the fence stock markets and upper echelon of America’s They’ve brought in someone who doesn’t you’re on. Delaying mail of any class is a crime big businesses successfully maneuver their seem to know that he works for American peo- in my book. Medications sit; priority packages way through the pandemic, America’s working ple and not stockholders or even the Tangerine sit; deliveries delayed are customers denied. families continue to live check to check, relying Toddler. We were not created to make a profit, We must stand up and speak up before it’s on less than livable wages. This is an embar- but to serve the American people. I know we too late. If you haven’t contacted your represen- rassment that this country needs to address. have to make money to survive, and if we didn’t tative, do it today. Tell them you don’t want mail So many of our problems are the direct result have to pay for retirement health benefits 75 delayed and you think the Postal Service de- of this economic inequality. On this Labor Day, years ahead of time, we would be doing a lot serves money from the stimulus package, just let’s strive to begin the process of change. better. If we didn’t make it harder to mail some- like every other corporation. Thank goodness Michael J. O’Neill, Branch 38 thing by making window service hours shorter most see through the rhetoric and know there and shorter...it would make more sense to keep is a move to discredit each of you on “vote-by- windows open later so people after their job mail.” We’ve delivered millions of ballots over New Orleans, Louisiana can use our service...ya know, during the day, decades. None of you are stashing ballots, se- o Branch 124 members, local elections will people are working and can’t get to the win- cretly opening them and changing votes. That in Tbe held this year. Do you receive our lo- dows. Even open on Sunday for at least a little itself is absurd and you should feel insulted. I cal newsletter, The Mailbag? If not, we do not bit. There is a lot of speculation that DeJoy is certainly do. have your current address. To receive your bal- a puppet for the Toddler. Congress now is call- On the home front, thanks to Chris Calica for lot, contact the branch to update your address. ing for an investigation into the slowing of the stepping in to process the third non-compliance If necessary, call 504-283-6252 or email the mail. The wheels of justice move very slowly, grievance. You heard me right: the third time. branch secretary at [email protected]. All so it might be awhile. Remember, in November, How easy is it to follow an instruction in a pre- positions are open, from president, vice presi- you’re voting your job and livelihood! arbitration decision? Apparently, in Monterey dent, secretary, treasurer, health benefits rep- Joel Stimmler, Branch 542

66 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 Northeastern New York is our motto: Letter carriers: we deliver! And so, defense is a good offense of staying vigilant and we shall. steady with consistent mail delivery. t is dismaying to observe what is transpiring in Bob Bearden, Branch 458 The best we can do is to consistently apply Ithe Postal Service. Rated as the most trusted those safety and delivery rules that keep us on agency in the government, it seems like it is track to provide America with the best we can being sabotaged. Late deliveries, insufficient , Pennsylvania give them. staffing and unilateral decisions by manage- Never let them say we are the weakest link in ment has raised many question marks. In the he Postal Service will play a vital role in the the chain. Use your forms of delivery and cur- past there was joint cooperation between the Tupcoming general election taking place on tailment to document your efforts and serve the unions and the Postal Service. I participated Nov. 3. More vote-by-mail ballots will be cast in joint safety committees, route adjustments than ever before in American history. Is the public with a smile! and ergonomic task forces. These endeavors Postal Service ready for the general election this Al Linde, Branch 576 produced many positive results for manage- year? If not, what can we do to guarantee that ment and employees. Sadly, these positive ac- our mail-in ballot is counted? What can we do to tions were stopped by the Postal Service, and safeguard our most sacred democratic process, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania the whole organization has been affected in a the right to vote? ositivity is one thing; realism is another. negative way. In Pennsylvania, you can apply for a mail-in/ PSometimes issues need to be dealt with to Under new leadership, it seems the Postal absentee ballot now. You can do so by applying be cathartic enough to get back to positivity. En- Service is being steered in the wrong direction. online at VotesPA.com/ApplyMailBallot. Option ter Louis “DeLay.” What happened to customer service, timely 2: You can contact your county election office di- The first stimulus package was officially delivery? The Postal Service is not a company. rectly and request a paper application. Option signed into law on March 27. It only contained What are the motives behind this logic? It is 3: You can contact the Department of State to a provision for the USPS to borrow money from troubling to watch these actions, after so much request an application by emailing ra-votereg@ the Treasury Department, when everyone else effort was put in by so many to make this orga- pa.gov or calling 877-VOTESPA. can obtain federal funding with 90 percent-plus nization the most favorite agency in the govern- The most important factor in making sure being able to be forgiven. That’s the first reality. ment. your vote is counted is to vote early. Apply for The second would be that it took five months Many union officials have been lobbying Con- your vote-by-mail application early and get you to come to terms with the same TD for the loan. gress for many years to ensure that America has ballot in right away. Why? DeJoy needed to be installed to be a a strong Postal Service. It is disheartening to ob- The following dates are extremely important: proxy, ensuring the most rotten outcome pos- serve the actions being taken by the Postal Ser- Oct. 27, 5 p.m.—Applications must be re- sible for universal service. Reality. vice. There have been challenges facing NALC ceived by your county election office. Perhaps the worst of the bunch, the terms of previously, and our organization has always Nov. 3, 8 p.m.—Voted ballots must be re- the loan agreement are that Mnuchin gets un- responded. We must support our union during ceived by your county election office. redacted copies of the Service’s 10 most lucra- these difficult times. are not enough. tive private-sector contracts. What’s the reality Frank P. Maresca, Branch 358 Branch 157 is willing and able to help any of here? Well, nothing really. Just the blueprints to our members obtain a vote-by-mail ballot. All dismantle the place, that’s all. you have to do is give us a call. Remember, too In reality, unemployed persons got an extra Oklahoma City, Oklahoma many Americans have made the ultimate sacri- $8,000 in 2020. “Essentials” didn’t get squat he new postmaster general appears to be fice to secure our right to vote. We cannot permit for braving the pandemic. Tjumping to make changes to the hierarchy anyone to stop us now. While I realize that our national officers are of the Postal Service, which would seem not to Joe Rodgers, Branch 157 working behind the scenes, some of these pan- be in the best interests of the Service and does demic settlements have really let us down. The not seem to bode well for postal employees. Nor operational changes agreement was too broad for the American public, especially the voting Phoenix, Arizona and lacked description of levels of affected ar- public. Whatever his motive, let us remember tay the course! Do what letter carriers do eas, thus leading to abuse by management. The postal employees and letter carriers specifically best—deliver the mail. 7:01 agreement only encouraged more running take an oath. The same oath, presumably, that S There are many forces acting against us right and working off the clock. Worst of all is the glar- our new postmaster general took to protect our now. Threats range from the outside and within. ing omission of the most important protection Constitution and to protect the flow of mail to and from our millions of citizens. But no matter what they throw at us, our best for letter carriers: No pandemic times will be As letter carriers, we know where we stand on that. We will protect the mail flow, and we will do our job, which is to deliver the mail properly and efficiently. Many of our fellow letter carri- COLA: Cost-of-living adjustment ers, postal clerks and other postal employees are veterans who have served this nation in tt Following the release of the July 2019 with the publication of the September times of crisis and conflict. We will hold true to consumer price index (CPI), the cost- 2020 CPI in October 2020. our oath of obligation that we swore to when we of-living adjustment (COLA) under entered military service for our nation. We will tt The 2021 COLA under the Federal Em- the 2016-2019 National Agreement is hold to the oath we took when we entered into ployees’ Compensation Act (FECA) is the service of the Post Office. $624 annually. This COLA is based on We will do everything within our power to the change in the CPI from the base projected to be 0.9 percent following protect the mail and everything in our power index month to July 2019, with the pre- the release of the May CPI. This COLA to make sure every single piece of mail in our is based on the change in the CPI be- charge is delivered safely to its destination and vious six COLAs subtracted. in a timely manner. And no one single individual tween December 2019 and December t The 2021 projected COLAs for CSRS will prevent us from our appointed rounds. t 2020 and will be finalized with the and FERS, which are based on the We love this nation and its people! We are release of the December 2020 CPI in patriots and we will continue to protect and de- CPI’s increase between the third quar- January 2021. fend the proper flow of mail within our charge. It ter of 2019 and third quarter of 2020, is what we do seven days a week. As members of the National Association of Letter Carriers, it is 1.0 percent and will be finalized Visit nalc.org for the latest updates.

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 67 Branch Items

used to evaluate or adjust routes. How obvious Providence, Rhode Island of every day. Believing in a higher power than is this? But, this is the reality. man when asked how he was feeling, he would Privatization is more real now than I can re- ll group gatherings are still restricted to 15 simply reply, “Blessed.” Eddie, as you approach member in my 20-year career. This benefits no Apeople, so there will not be a branch meet- the Holy Sacrament of the Altar, may the armor one. Let’s be positive and cling to the reality ing in September. The Branch 15 executive of faith protect and guide you in your spiritual that universal service is still guaranteed by the board is empowered to run branch affairs and journey. When you stand before that altar, I am Constitution, but don’t be ignorant to the others will continue to meet. As you all know, the pres- convinced you will hear two words: “Welcome ent is unknown on so many levels; please do mentioned above. home.” Eddie was 60, and he was our friend. not hesitate to reach out to me or any of the offi- John Conger II, Branch 84 cers and stewards, as changes in the workplace Chris Paige, Branch 436 are happening at the same rate as distractions Pittsfield, Massachusetts in the political arena. The Office Sortation Equipment Reconcilia- St. Louis, Missouri ranch 286 mourns the loss of one of its tion (SERS) is set to steamroll all offices. At this ’ve probably written a million words over the members, William Cancilla, 82, of Pittsfield, B time, there are discussions between the NBA Ilast 40 years concerning the importance of who passed away on July 1. Bill worked for the and National on this initiative. Stay tuned for supporting and electing postal-friendly politi- U.S.P.S. as a mail carrier for 36 years, retiring more on this. cal candidates in our national, state and local in 1998. He served with the Navy, the Marine Branch elections were held pre-pandemic in offices. Corps Reserves, the Army Reserves and the Air March, and articles on that and more will follow There was a time when the U.S. Postal Ser- National Guard. Bill was a Post Commander for in the monthly columns by Anthony Torres-Tur- vice was a quasi-federal agency with the govern- the VFW and was a life member of the Disabled cotte, who was elected the new scribe. Formerly ment. Those days are long gone. And for those American Veterans. His presence will be sorely a Wakefield carrier, Anthony transferred to Prov- of us working for the Postal Service, we have missed as an NALC member and a strong figure idence this past January. become a political football whose continued ex- in the community he served. The Old Timers Brunch, scheduled for Sept. istence will likely be determined in the fall elec- James Gilmore, Branch 286 27, had to be postponed. It is impossible for me tions if immediate funding due to the impact of to reschedule right now. All of the awards are in COVID-19 isn’t properly addressed. the office and we are just awaiting a date when Every major bank, every major large corpo- Portland, Oregon we can have the full event as planned. Invita- ration, including our competitors, received bil- reetings from beautiful Portland, which, by tions to retirees and those receiving awards at lions in bailout money from the first stimulus Gthe way, is not on fire. Perhaps you have this event will be mailed. Also, retirees and any package. The Postal Service received a $10 bil- heard otherwise, that our city is under siege carriers are welcome to call the office if the oc- lion Treasury loan, which must be paid back. from violent protesters. The truth is that the pro- currence of a monthly meeting is questioned—I Adding insult to injury, the Trump administra- tests are by and large peaceful. While there have will be sure to place an announcement of such tion appoints Louis DeJoy, a fundraiser for the been some unfortunate incidents and damage on the office answering machine prior to the Republican National Committee with no admin- done, nobody wants federal officers here, and meeting. istrative experience with the U.S. Postal Service, things have improved since they stepped back. Fewer than 50 words left, so let me say: to serve as the new postmaster general. Simply put, it’s not as bad as it looks on TV. Thank you all for your confidence in re-electing His modus operandi is straight out of the Meanwhile, as consolidated casing makes its me. Look out for each other. Vote on the side of corporate playbook. Cut hours, cut service and exit, a new test program enters the scene. ESAS democracy and civility. convert a service-orientated company into a (expedited to street, afternoon sortation) is be- Ingrid Armada, Branch 15 supposed corporate model, making this agency ing tested at three Portland-area stations. Just as the name suggests, carriers case and pull down ripe for privatization. While there is some agree- mail in the afternoon. In the morning, they grab it, ment in streamlining management, there is no Racine, Wisconsin agreement in delaying the mail, eliminating de- sort out their parcels and go. As of this deadline, question queried to our postmaster was the we are two weeks in, and so far the results are…a livery standards and threatening the efficiency A concern about limited loading dock space. of the most trusted agency in the federal gov- big “why bother?” In my opinion, if management The response was that we will “adjust and wants to improve efficiency, there are hundreds ernment. course correct” as needed. Interesting play on While Trump disparages the Postal Service of things they could do before tinkering with the words. Racine’s four-mile station is one of the order in which letter carriers do their jobs. as “a joke” and implies that the Service can’t test sites for the PMG’s new initiative. Our sta- be trusted with mail-in voting, he tries to dele- Suzanne Miller, Branch 82 tion is now full of many really smart people with gitimize the trustworthiness of this agency and long important titles after their names. Mean- attempts to incite fear in the people that their while, carriers re-adjust routines and start times vote in November won’t be counted. How to submit items so the PMG can attempt to re-invent the wheel, I urge my fellow carriers and their families to fitting a square peg in a round hole. set aside our political differences and vote to ranch presidents or their designated Change comes with any job. It would have save our company, our jobs and our financial Bscribes may submit Branch Items to been more constructive if all postal unions were security. We need to stop this threat now. The Postal Record by mail at 100 Indiana invited to the same table with our PMG. Slow- Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20001-2144; ing the mail is reckless and dangerous conduct. Tom Schulte, Branch 343 email at [email protected]; or fax at Folks used to get fired for that. If the ship con- 202-737-1540. The deadline is the 10th tinues to tilt, we may have to brace for shock of the preceding month, or if it falls on a and hold on tight. Haven’t all the smart people Saint Paul, Minnesota weekend or holiday, 9 a.m. E.T. the first learned from the flats sequencing machines s anyone who has seen me at a Branch 28 business day after. For the October issue, and consolidated casing fiasco? Ameeting (remember meetings?) can tell you, the deadline is 9 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 11. Racine is saddened and heartbroken as we I am a St. Louis Cardinals fan. Therefore, as the The NALC Constitution limits items to 300 mourn the passing of our friend and co-worker Cardinals finish out their second full week of words. Photos should be in color; photos Eddie Scott. Eddie was that individual who, af- play stoppage due to COVID-19 during this short sent by email should be at least 150 dpi ter talking to him, you felt like you had known baseball season, I cannot help but to feel dis- resolution. Please identify every person him forever. Eddie’s warm, infectious smile couraged and confused. While there might not in the photo. The Postal Record reserves would light up a room, and his laugh could be be too many other Cards fans in Branch 28, I the right not to print every photo received. heard all the way to the Vikings’ training facili- suppose many of my local brothers and sisters Hard-copy photos will not be returned. ties. Some may say he lost his battle with stom- feel as if they do not have a team on the field ach cancer. I disagree. Eddie lived every minute this year when it comes to our union.

68 The Postal Record September 2020 September 2020 So many of the ways that we connect as mem- ings and reduction of office hours with no notice bers of Branch 28 have been canceled for the Seattle, Washington or due process, and delivery changes that result safety of our families and communities: branch “Take Action” on nalc.org. Daily, I do what I in “no delivery.” What should we have expected meetings, the food drive, the bowlathon, the I can do. The website also connected me with from someone with no experience in collec- branch picnic and softball tournament, national my Twitter account, and thus began my singu- tive bargaining or fair labor practices? He just convention, state fair labor parade, booyah lar tweet storm. Not being one to waste words, signed an agreement for the terms of a potential and the kids’ Christmas party. This is on top of I took my tweets and posted them on Facebook Treasury loan that discloses proprietary USPS changes to the ways that we interact with each as well. I started out with two followers on Twit- information and (more importantly) gives carte ter—my wife and one son. After a month, I have other off the clock. It might not be totally unrea- blanche regarding definition and consequences 61 people trailing me around on the internet. sonable to think that we are just “sitting this of default to an investment banker posing as Now, you may want to stay off the grid, out of summer out.” our country’s Treasury secretary. the fray, out of the way, but like John Lewis said, I can, however, assure you that, like a duck, Are we there yet? “It’s time to get into some necessary trouble.” Lee Taylor, Branch 2611 there may not be much activity going on “above Also, you may not think “Taking Action” matters, the water line” but NALC, on both the local and but facts matter. Sixty-one followers who knew national levels, is a flurry of activity. The na- nothing about the pre-funding debacle matter. South Jersey, New Jersey tional contract is building up toward arbitration, Sixty-one people who are now more factually ere we go again! a new PMG dropped a huge pile of procedural informed about the plight of the Postal Service, and organizational changes, we are still in a and how it was unwittingly dragged into finan- H Just as we came to an agreement, which pandemic, and we are a month out of a national cial ruin, matter. Facts matter! Get the facts I thought, on the disastrous consolidated cas- election. All this, and the months-deep piles of out! Don’t sit on your hands, or twiddle your ing initiative, the geniuses at the top just rolled overtime grievances are finally getting paid out, thumbs—tweet with ’em. out another test that is the same idea with a Eagan Station is a new test site and Industrial is Since “Taking Action,” I have been re-tweet- different name. This brilliant “test” is called going back to the pre-consolidated casing for- ed and shared by people I don’t even know. ESAS or Expedited Street/Afternoon Sortation. mat. For NALC, for Branch 28, for letter carriers Don’t sit at home and piss and moan about the This is basically the same idea as the consoli- and (hopefully!) for the Cards, there is no such pre-funding—piss and moan on Twitter. I’m a dated casing initiative we just ended. These thing as sitting the summer out. fact man, filling in gaps in people’s knowledge new stuffed shirts must have reached into Colin Walker, Branch 28 and providing information that they may not the old drawer where the failed ideas sat, and have known. See? I no longer rant in my room, found what they thought was a brand-new idea kick furniture and howl about wrongdoings—I on how to save time in the carrier craft! Little do San Antonio, Texas vent, on the internet. Like King Canute, here’s they know these failed programs are there for reetings, brothers and sisters. one of my attempts to turn back the tide, “one a reason; they didn’t work then and they won’t G Our letter carriers in San Antonio and our Tweet” at a time: work now. associate offices continue to deliver the mail July 2. “HOAX? HOAX? You want to talk about Listen, I agree we need to look at our office our customers depend on, despite the coronavi- a HOAX? Let’s talk about the $5 billion pre- duties going forward, and jointly come up with rus pandemic. We have had a number of carriers funding mandate, that anchor that Congress a better way to calculate our office times, but out for quarantine purposes, but we keep mov- attached to the Post Office’s bottom line. That doing it unilaterally will not work. As we have ing forward, regardless of the forced overtime, Hoax has been dragging them under since said for as long as I can remember, let the car- missed days off, etc., to ensure that our custom- 2006. There’s a HOAX! Support our vets. Stimu- riers come up with the best solution if you are ers receive their mail…until now. What’s worse lus fund the USPS.—Peace.” really serious. The funny thing with this alleged is the cause of our inability to deliver all mail Don Nokes, Branch 79 test is that it deals with 400 offices! Years ago, received on time, and is right under our nose; a test would be conducted in each region of the it’s senior postal management. country with a few offices selected to try it out. Since Day One on the job, Postmaster Gen- Silver Spring, Marvland The reason being if it failed, there would be no eral (PMG) DeJoy has been making behind-the- he actions of the new PMG are quite dis- major impact on our jobs and would save the scenes changes that looks like we are being set Tturbing. The only positive could be that the Postal Service millions of dollars if it didn’t up for defeat (no overtime, no late mail delivery large majority of our apathetic members (and work. As you can see, the latest failed initiative of first-class mail and parcels, no morning cas- citizens of our country) are now motivated to has cost millions of dollars and undue stress ing of mail). They are delaying mail, pure and get involved. I’m sorry to inform that the days and delivery issues in all the stations it was run- simple. These changes (delays) are being felt of simply paying union dues and then expecting ning in. I can’t understand the thought process all over the country, too (Philadelphia, Chicago, others to fight all the battles are over. Ask your of this regime. Look for more stupid tests to be etc.). It’s ridiculous. If a carrier got caught lying branch leadership or simply read the magazine coming our way until something pops. Evalu- to management about the disposition of mail you are holding in your hands, and then do at ated routes, anyone? least the minimum of what is requested. If we for a customer, like this guy is misleading Con- Gary DiGiacomo, Branch 908 gress and the American public, you and I both demonstrate what it truly means to be “union,” know #!@2$%/ what would happen to us! we will prevail, but it won’t be easy. The “” baggage PMG DeJoy The one thing we agree on is that a new Southeast Pennsylvania Merged brings with him is of legendary proportion. He is is necessary. NALC has been hallenge given; challenge met! 2020 has a major donor/coordinator of a political party, advocating for this since 2006, but our intent been one obstacle after another. And the which should, by any sane standard, make him C has always been to expand our services and persistence, perseverance and patience of the ineligible for the job. He is also the definition strengthen our brand. The programs and chang- letter carriers prevailed once again. Yes, it was of “evil corporatist,” responsible for numer- tough, but we adjusted and stand at this point es the PMG is attempting to implement is more ous private-sector OSHA and labor issues with like search and destroy. ready for the next “thing.” serious consequences. He owns investments At the beginning of the year, many rumors I want to thank all of the members who have in postal competitors and contractors, so by been attending branch meetings through Zoom. of the demise of the Postal Service came to nature stands to inappropriately benefit by the the surface. Then the pandemic hit and shook We will continue to have those meetings by decisions he makes that harm USPS. the whole nation. Projections were that with- Zoom until it is safe to gather again in person. Just as troubling are his actions since the ap- out financial assistance, the company would If you are unfamiliar with Zoom, please contact pointment. Instead of using the wisdom to ac- be bankrupt by the end of this month. But we the branch office at 210-227-0128 for assis- tually involve all parties in decision-making, he went right out and delivered for America. We tance. Stay safe. just unilaterally took some shots from the hip, were hailed as heroes. Ironically, we are still he- Tony Boyd, Branch 421 which has resulted in service fiascos like clos- roes. But you would never know it, because, as

September 2020 September 2020 The Postal Record 69 Branch Items

if a switch was flicked, us carriers were vilified ing the work floor for the past week. One day Gee, I wonder why our carriers are so angry again by management. But the new challenge no flats, another no DPS, and another where and frustrated? To be continued.... became survival because staffing issues caught the mall route, with all those businesses, got a Ray Hill, Branch 2902 up to us, because of the halt to training new car- half tray of DPS. We’ve heard from branches that riers due to COVID-19. So, when training started Area and District are swarming the observation back up, the stuff already had hit the fan. Offic- stations, oddly none in Toledo. Worcester, Massachusetts One of the collectors found a note in a collec- es were starting days with more than 20 routes n keeping with my trying to see the positive down. Parcels built up and routes did not go tion box, addressed to all postal workers. Some of the quotes: “Answer your damn phones.” Iside of things, I have a few more retirements out. Mail was brought back daily and became I’d like to announce. Any time an individual can a regular occurrence. And then they brilliantly “Where’s my mail, none for three days?” “Where is customer service?” We have delayed mail ev- retire from their career in at least relatively good pushed our start times up. But we pushed erywhere. Not just one day delayed! Ever since health and on their own terms is a wonderful through 12-hour days (even on Sundays). Then the new PMG, “Louie Delay” arrived, service has thing. the 60-hour became relevant. gone to hell. We have never seen mail process- After more than 35 years of delivering the And through all this hard work, we were sud- ing and delivery this bad. mail, Worcester letter carrier Patrick Lynch hung denly not told by management that we were Our branch has seen an uptick in COVID-19 up his satchel and retired from a job he not only valuable (at the most apparent time). So, when cases in recent weeks. At one area office, the did well, but took pride and supervisors were forced to car- postmaster was aware of a case, and then in. Pat could always be seen in his clean, prop- ry mail, we knew we had reached an apex. Now, didn’t tell the other employees for a week! That the heat, the soreness of our bodies, and gen- er uniform delivering postmaster should be fired. Instead, if anything his route professionally eral discuss with management became second- happens, the old management shuffle will take and efficiently. ary to our lack of days off and that thing called place. That will surely solve the problem. Also joining the re- an eight-hour day. Branch 100 was scheduled to host our Ohio tirement ranks is an- And through it all, carriers were fired, quit, state convention in 2021. The union hotel we other Worcester letter retired, and now we are here. have used before was sold. Lucas County pur- carrier, David Flattery. #WeAreReadyForTheNextChallenge #WeWillAl- chased the property and plans major renovations Dave had more than waysEndure to the hotel and adjoining Seagate Convention 33 years of service and Center. As a result of this and no other union ho- Eric Jackson, Branch 725 was always recogniz- tel being available, we have had to pass our turn. David Flattery able with his ball cap So much has been canceled or postponed and big fluffy mus- Springfield, Ohio in the past few months. Hopefully, things will tache. I’m sure Dave won’t be bored in retire- gradually get back to normal. ment, because he also makes signs and ban- lease read the Election Notice in this maga- Ray Bricker, Branch 100 ners. In fact, he made the Branch 12 food drive Pzine about your upcoming branch elections. banner that can be seen every April and May on Each year, your branch officers are reim- the front lawn at the union office. bursed their union dues as payment for their Tri-Valley, California And last, but certainly not least, is Worcester work serving the members of this branch. Based letter carrier Michael Kittredge. Mike’s postal on a 40-hour week, that comes out to approxi- planned to write more about branch history this month; however, the extreme dysfunc- career spanned more than 34 years of dedicat- mately $9.13 per week after taxes; $1.82 per I ed service. day; 23 pennies an hour. tion displayed by Sierra Coastal District (SCD) On behalf of Branch 12, I’d like to wish these You get a lot for 23 pennies. Your own branch, management forced me to scrap that plan. As gentlemen, and any newly retired members, a for starters. But having your own branch takes carriers bravely do their best to deal with the long, healthy and happy retirement! a lot of effort. Branch meetings. Bank state- horrible circumstances caused by the COVID-19 Ken Janulewicz ments. Check-writing. Writing branch articles. pandemic, SCD management has responded by Workers’ comp. Local, state, and federal taxes. heaping as much stress as possible on them. W-2 forms. Audits. Food drive. Conventions and Apparently, fear of our new postmaster gener- training. Teleconferences. And the list goes Yakima, Washington on.... al’s carving knife has caused SCD management to go berserk while shirking their basic manage- ug. 4. Put in 12 and a half hours. This has And no, we do not get paid on the clock for been occurring for four years. I am not an rial responsibilities. A any of the above. Only stewards get paid on the ODL but average more than $20,000 a year in clock to investigate, prepare and conduct griev- Carriers have long fought the 3996 battle overtime. ances. Everything else is paid for with your 23 when requesting overtime. In the past, when Don’t need it; don’t want it. Our problem, pennies. management denied a carrier’s request for over- which management refuses to address, is not And overseeing all of this is the branch presi- time, the carrier was required to call from the enough staff, but more important is not enough dent, who is also the chief steward. He has a lot street for authorization. The carrier would call vehicles. on his mind. Bitching to him while he is walking and, after much hemming and hawing, manage- Here in Yakima they are finally starting to in the building is just bitching. Seeing a steward ment told the carrier to “finish delivering your hire, but without the vehicles, we still struggle. on the clock means you have a genuine concern route but the time is not authorized.” That was This is an issue that National should have fixed about your contractual rights and you want to all the carrier needed to hear; once instructed to see a steward in private, where the steward can more than 10 years ago. complete delivery, the overtime was approved. In more than 29 years, management has nev- take notes, look at the National Agreement, get I never imagined those would be the “good written statements, etc. er implemented any of my suggestions. Here’s If you think we’re overpaid, not doing our old days.” Now carriers request additional time my last one. Have all carriers return to the office jobs, you can do the job better, or just want via text on their MDD scanners and manage- prior to the end of the eight-hour shift and send to help, please see the Election Notice in this ment fails/refuses to provide instructions. One out a second wave to complete the assignments magazine. Run for office. All positions are up for carrier sent a text that read, “I will need 30 min- for the day. grabs. And for 23 pennies an hour, we could use utes to complete route. Should I finish route No need for extra vehicles, no OT. Just need the help. or bring mail back?” Management responded, manpower. An added bonus to this would be Branch meetings are the second Thursday of “Your route did not earn the time you are ask- that new carriers wouldn’t be overwhelmed and each month in Room 221. Pizza at 6:15. Meet- ing for. Deliver all the mail on your route and be could transition into the job with less stress. ing at 6:30 p.m. Show up. Listen. Ask questions. off the clock by 4:30 with your mail cased and Also, little housekeeping and route manage- Knowledge is power. pulled down for the next day.” Another carrier ment chores would no longer need to be ig- Brian Gourilis, Branch 45 texted, “I need clear instructions what to do, nored. finish route or bring mail back?” Management It’ll never happen. responded, “Handbook M-41; Section 112.24; My last article will appear in the November is- Toledo, Ohio Display a willing attitude and put forth a con- sue. Come on, retirement. ur Franklin Park city station has had an ob- scientious effort in developing skills to perform Peace— Oservation team from an outside firm roam- duties assigned.” J.S. Bohlinger, Branch 852

70 The Postal Record September 2020 Auxiliary Update

National Auxiliary News and updates Board from the officers

Cynthia Martinez Crystal Bragg Linda Davis Pam Fore Vice President Secretary Asst. Secretary Treasurer Cythensis Lang President The State of the Auxiliary not happen. The Auxiliary is here, willing and the wayside. Once again, the choice is yours! e hope that all have read our article in last able to help. You can choose to let us continue Wmonth’s Postal Record. If you have not, you to help you, or you can choose to let us fall by NALCA Board owe it to yourself and your family to read it. Thanks to Hartford, CT Branch 86 and Presi- dent Michael L. Willadsen for their generous do- AUXILIARY OFFICERS nation to the Auxiliary. Thanks to Mark S. Camilli, NALC Region 11 Cythensis Lang, President Cynthia Martinez, Vice President Crystal Bragg, Secretary national business agent, for reaching out to the 319 Chelsea Court 3532 W. Mauna Loa Lane 835 Westland Drive Auxiliary. Satsuma, AL 36572 Phoenix, AZ 85053 Mt. Zion IL 62549 Thanks to Ann Borowski of Milwaukee, WI, 251-679-4052 602-843-8676 217-864-4684 for reaching out. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] You will never know how much the Auxiliary appreciates each and every one of you! Linda Davis, Assistant Secretary Pam Fore, Treasurer The world seems to only be opening up little 114 E. Staff Sgt. Pendleton Way 3618 Hileman Drive S by little, but we are getting there. Yakima, WA 98901 Lakeland, FL 33810 The future of the Postal Service is in the 509-969-1334 863-853-2113 [email protected] hands of a few people who want us to be no [email protected] more. It is up to us to make sure that this does In Memoriam

NALC offers deepest sympathies to the families and friends of departed brothers and sisters

Steve J. Anguis Br. 6156 Sun City, AZ David R. Howe Br. 46 Western Massachusetts Thomas E. Halter Br. 238 Canton, OH Robert L. Hill Br. 231 Central California Richard D. Hudson Br. 1 Detroit, MI Samuel M. Kalkman Br. 238 Canton, OH James H. McLennan Br. 1100 Garden Grove, CA Martin J. Reichard Jr. Br. 74 Saginaw, MI Edwin L. Richards Br. 238 Canton, OH Thaddeus Brantley Br. 1111 Greater East Bay, CA Ronald A. Ewert Br. 4374 South Macomb, MI Matthew J. Nawal Br. 40 Cleveland, OH John J. Huber Br. 133 Sacramento, CA Mike Lujan Br. 717 Austin, MN Corey Wojcik Br. 40 Cleveland, OH Daniel Nunes Br. 133 Sacramento, CA Lindahl B. Gleason Br. 9 Minneapolis, MN William E. Riley Br. 182 Dayton, OH Raymond E. Servatius Br. 70 San Diego, CA Mark T. Schindeldecker Br. 9 Minneapolis, MN Ginger M. Cummings Br. 2754 Middleport, OH Anthony N. Green Br. 204 Colorado Springs, CO William O. Baker Jr. Br. 30 Kansas City, MO Everett B. Norman Br. 45 Springfield, OH Wallace D. Liggett Br. 849 Fort Collins, CO Richard L. Champion Br. 343 St. Louis, MO Cephas A. Stover Jr. Br. 45 Springfield, OH William Gordon Jr. Br. 86 Hartford, CT William B. Craig Br. 343 St. Louis, MO William M. Hession Br. 191 Wilmington, DE Daniel F. Elfrink Br. 343 St. Louis, MO C. E. Terry Br. 45 Springfield, OH Elio E. Gomez Br. 2550 Ft. Lauderdale, FL Eugene A. Feager Br. 343 St. Louis, MO Denise M. Harris Br. 100 Toledo, OH Lloyd G. Ahlschwede Br. 1779 Lakeland, FL Jefferson G. Layton Br. 343 St. Louis, MO Edward Radebaugh Br. 100 Toledo, OH Wallace W. Harrison Br. 1779 Lakeland, FL Gregory Pelebos Br. 343 St. Louis, MO Cameron C. Carter Br. 458 Oklahoma City, OK James W. Lee Br. 4716 Naples, FL Thomas J. Van Cleef Br. 2502 Las Vegas, NV Edward C. Maschino Br. 458 Oklahoma City, OK David J. Timcik Br. 1477 West Coast Florida Robert E. Wagner Br. 540 Camden, NJ Merged Bill E. Silkwood Br. 883 Shawnee, OK Jeremiah S. Puma Br. 536 Rome, GA Frank D. Grace Br. 754 Cranford, NJ Jerry Coats Br. 1358 Tulsa, OK Charles L. Wyatt Br. 309 Alton, IL Frank A. Capozzi Br. 444 Garden State Mgd., NJ Terrence P. Templin Br. 1358 Tulsa, OK Carole A. Huff-Mosley Br. 11 Chicago, IL Frank D. Partusch Br. 444 Garden State Mgd., NJ Ernestine D. Forjan Br. 920 Bux-Mont, PA Wayne L. Fitzsimmons Br. 825 Elmhurst, IL Robert D. Clark Br. 120 Paterson, NJ Luther W. Benson Jr. Br. 258 Reading, PA Gerald L. Baker Br. 245 Rockford, IL Dwight Sims Br. 120 Paterson, NJ Daniel A. Cusela Br. 115 Wilkes-Barre, PA Wilbert L. Kapfer Br. 245 Rockford, IL George Figlar Br. 2128 Toms River, NJ Ben Barbee Br. 419 Knoxville, TN Linda K. Pirrello Br. 245 Rockford, IL Edward Pesta Br. 2128 Toms River, NJ Clyde F. Jepson Br. 842 Beaumont, TX Thomas L. Swank Br. 466 Lafayette, IN Angela Zuccaro Br. 2128 Toms River, NJ Reginald W. Hamilton Br. 283 Houston, TX Kerry A. Morrissey Br. 1081 Ames, IA James J. Bergevin Br. 380 Trenton, NJ Joe F. Leediker Br. 2279 Lufkin, TX Lawrence J. Gudenkauf Br. 373 Cedar Rapids, IA Brandon T. Zebrowski Br. 3 Buffalo-Western NY Adrian Groos Br. 111 Salt Lake City, UT George M. Chance Br. 352 Central Iowa Merged David G. Elg Br. 137 Hudson Valley Mgd., NY Jack E. Penman Br. 352 Central Iowa Merged Michael J. Eannone Br. 562 Jamaica, NY Harry D. Yensen Br. 111 Salt Lake City, UT Marvin C. Persigehl Br. 486 Salina, KS Janine A. Juba Br. 6000 Long Island Mgd., NY Gerald E. Lee Br. 567 Alexandria, VA Rodney A. Anderson Br. 201 Wichita, KS Stephen J. Toth Br. 630 Greensboro, NC Ashby F. Owens Br. 567 Alexandria, VA Willis H. Hatton Br. 374 Northern Kentucky Richard P. Hanes Br. 461 Winston-Salem, NC Robert D. Ricketts Br. 595 Danville, VA Spurgeonl J. Reynolds Br. 176 Baltimore, MD Julius G. Hilton Br. 461 Winston-Salem, NC Barbara C. Cook Br. 247 Tidewater VA John M. Donnelly Br. 34 Boston, MA Robert D. Johnson Br. 461 Winston-Salem, NC Hans R. Morstad Br. 130 Tacoma, WA Joseph F. Palmieri Br. 34 Boston, MA Jackson M. Shaw Br. 461 Winston-Salem, NC Mark J. Krumdick Br. 2 Milwaukee, WI

September 2020 The Postal Record 71

: .

Mutual Exchanges

CA: Cypress (11/94) to Yorba Linda or CO: Denver (10/94) to Northeast FL— 8352 or [email protected]. please. 14 bidding stations. Lots of OT. Anaheim Hills. Would also consider any Jacksonville to Titusville or surround- IL: Chicago (8/98) to the Northwest, West Mike, [email protected]. ing areas. 26 offices for bidding. Close to Inland Empire city. Trying to get closer or MN (open to other areas). Uptown NY: Manhattan (12/99) to Duluth, GA or to home. Regular carriers only, please. downtown Denver and mountains. Alan, Northside station. Great area. Citywide bid- surrounding areas. Jimena, 718-637- Randy, 657-266-7747. 303-522-5545 (call, text or voice message). ding available. Scott, 612-298-2245. 4461 or [email protected]. CA: Sacramento (6/07) to Columbus, OH FL: Davie (1/16) to Port Saint Lucie, NJ: Millington (9/06) to Manahawkin, NJ or NY: Manhattan (3/05) to Newport News, or surrounding area. Nine bidding sta- Fort Pierce, Stuart, Jenson Beach, FL or surrounding areas, or Chester, NJ. Small of- VA. Large office in Times Square area, tions. One hour, 45 minutes to San Fran- surrounding areas. Plenty of OT. Six bid- fice with plenty of OT. Large parcel volume. with plenty of OT. Regular carriers only. cisco and one hour, 45 minutes to Tahoe. ding stations. Roger, 313-410-7571 or Ted, 862-222-3341 or [email protected]. Geraldine, 347-398-7596 (call or text) or Sunshine year-round, no snow. Relocating [email protected]. [email protected]. to be with my family; must move ASAP. FL: Ft. Lauderdale (6/93) to Michigan NV: Las Vegas (11/15) to Southwest Riv- Travis, 916-541-3919. City, LaPorte, Alquina, Chesterton, IN. erside County, CA. No state tax. Plenty of OR: Portland (10/96) to Guam. Regular carri- CO: Arvada (4/18) to Charlotte, NC or Large office with OT. John Torres, 561- OT. 13 bidding stations. Jianhong, 702- ers only. No sales tax. OT available. For family surrounding area. Two bidding offices; 329-0944 or [email protected]. 336-9043 or [email protected]. reasons. Tricia, [email protected]. OT available. Close to Denver and moun- FL: Ft. Myers (3/20) to Charlotte, NC. NV: Las Vegas (8/00) to Spokane, WA; TX: Garland (3/17) to Griswold, CT or sur- tains. Sean, 720-421-5626 or seanday44@ Beanches and sunshine, plenty of OT and Boise, ID or surrounding areas. Mild rounding areas. Mary, 214-476-3307 or gmail.com. five bidding stations. Ray Alfalla, 786-431- winters. Family reasons. Regulars only, [email protected].

How to place a Mutual Exchange ad The cost of Mutual Exchange ads is $15 for up will be returned. Note: Specific route information or mention of to 30 words and $25 for 31-50 words per month. Include your name, address and branch num- three-way transfers will not be published, nor Ads must be received by the 5th of the month ber. Ads must be received in the same format any wording that offers cash or property to fa- preceding the month in which the ad will appear, and wording as they will appear in the maga- cilitate an exchange. Mutual exchanges must e.g., September’s deadline is for the October pub- zine. Begin each ad with your state abbreviation, be approved by both postmasters involved. lication. Mail ad with check (payable to NALC) to: city and seniority date. Seniority of carriers involved shall be governed Mutual Exchange Ads, Postal Record, 100 Indiana Ads should be typed in upper/lower case (or, by Article 41, Sec. 2E of the National Agree- Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20001-2144. if this is not possible, printed clearly) on a full ment. Carriers may not exchange assignments, Ads are published for NALC members only. A sheet of 8.5 x 11” paper. Make certain the nu- since vacated positions must be posted for branch officer or steward must endorse the ad to merals 0 (zero) and 1 (one) can be distinguished bids in accordance with local and national certify membership. Ads without endorsements from the letters O and l in e-mail addresses. agreements.

72 The Postal Record September 2020 social media Join the conversation! Follow NALC HQ’s social media accounts to get the latest letter carrier news and updates straight from the source. Follow our pages; interact with us by liking, commenting and sharing content and encourage others to do the same. For suggestions and photo/video submissions, please use [email protected]. Looking for the latest NALC news? Give it a listen! NALC has launched the new podcast “You Are the Current Resident” on Podbean and other popular podcasting venues, including iTunes, Spotify and Google Play.

During each episode, NALC Executive Vice President Brian Renfroe and Assistant to the President for Contract Administration Mark Sims discuss vital topics affecting the letter carrier craft and the union. The show’s format also includes interviews with other NALC leaders to talk in depth about issues affecting letter carriers and the union.

The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on letter carriers and the Postal Service have dominated early episodes since the podcast debuted in March.

Accessing the podcast is easiest on Podbean On smartphones, simply go to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and download the Podbean Podcast App & Player. Once you have downloaded the app, open it and create an account (or sign on as a guest) and go to the search icon at the top and enter “You Are the Current Resident.” From there, you can listen to the available episodes and can click “Follow” to receive updates when new episodes are released. On your computer or mobile browser, go to the web address The Podbean app is available in the youarethecurrentresident.podbean.com and click on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store play button of the episode you wish to listen to.