Vice President’s Desk- Local News

On May 31, 2014 the last remaining Part-Time-Flexes in Philadelphia, together with 20 or so CCA (s) were promoted to full-time regular. Congratulations! You deserve it. Your patience and stick-to-it attitude has finally paid off. Great Job!

Now, we don’t know if management’s intention is to continue to promote CCA (s) as members of our craft retire on a one-to-one base, but we certainly hope so. We will update you on any future promotions as soon as such news develops.

Moving on to other areas of interest, The Branch has received numerous phone calls concerning management’s persistent violations of Article 8.5.G. of the National Agreement. In plain language, I am talking about those instances when management forces Non-ODL carriers to work overtime prior to meeting their obligations under Article 8 first. For instance: Is management working the ODL employees to the ceiling as mandated by the contract before forcing a Non-ODL carrier to work?  If not, your shop steward should be filing grievances against the Postal Service.  

Should you be one of those carriers being forced to work overtime against your wishes, tell your shop steward right away. He or she may not be able to convince management to do the right thing by changing the instructions, but they will file a    grievance protesting your right not to have to work. 

As you know, Memorial Day has recently come and gone. I hope everyone set aside some time to think about those brave men and women who died in service to our country. If you haven’t already done so, I encourage you to reflect on the sacrifices our soldiers and their families have made so that we can continue to enjoy the benefits of living in the best county on the planet.  Keep them in your prayers. We must never forget.

Summer is finally here. For letter carriers, it’s an opportunity to get away from the constant grind, forget the worries of the day and focus on having fun with family and friends. Wherever your vacation plans take you be sure to enjoy the much deserved time off.   I wish everyone a safe and relaxing summer season.

In closing, I just want to mention that I recently visited Angelo Mimms who is hospitalized at the University Of Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Shirley, are in good spirits and hopeful for a full recovery. I ask that everyone keep them both in your prayers.

Again, enjoy your summer and stay safe in your travels.

Joe Rodgers- Keystone Branch 157, Vice President.