January 01, 2021 - Joe Rodgers

The trajectory of the spread of COVID-19 is raging out of control. On December 9, 2020, over 3000 Americans lost their lives in a single day. The following day another 3000 citizens perished. In the Philadelphia District, the number of infected employees outpaced what we experienced back in April, May, and June by a factor of three to four times greater, daily.

To a certain degree, perhaps many of us has become Coronavirus fatigued. Perhaps, we have become too laxed or weary with doing what we know ought to be done. Perhaps, we are not wearing our masks when we should, or traveling despite the warnings to stay home. Human nature will trick us into becoming complacent over time. We must avoid these tendencies. Life is far too precious. Please, where your mask when social distancing is not possible. Wash your hands frequently. Do not bring your work shoes into your home. Wash your uniform and shower immediately. We simply must get back to following all the guidelines mandated by the CDC.

Unfortunately, the availability of a vaccine is still months away. Many will lose their battle to this terrible infectious disease before any remedy is obtainable. Medical professionals are warning us of the dark months ahead. Despite the fear and anxiety, we live with every day, we must keep things in their proper perspective. COVID-19 is not permanent it is temporary. Hopefully soon, it will not be the killer it is today. But for now, it is the leading cause of death this week in the United States, and we must act accordingly.

Regrettably, Keystone Branch 157 lost retired member J.R. Parker to COVID-19 on November 10, 2020. The officers and members of the branch will always remember J.R. as a devoted member of our fraternal family. He participated in the great "Strike of 1970" and risked everything while fighting to improve the lives of letter carriers and their families, forever. Rest-In-Peace our beloved friend. We will never forget you!