April 01, 2020 - Joe Rodgers

These are unprecedent and challenging times for all of us. The world is being exposed to Covid 19, a virus which is sure to have a major impact on our daily lives to an extent never experienced in our lifetime. The only thing we can do is follow the advice of medical and scientific professionals who are telling us to avoid close contact with people who are sick, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. Finally, if you are sick, please stay home.

Update: It appears letter carriers in our city are experiencing an increased number of physical assaults while delivering their mail. If not directly assaulted, there are just too many instances where shootings on our public streets are jeopardizing our members as they deliver their mail.

The Philadelphia District Safety Team met and discussed measures letter carriers can employ to enhance their safety, and what procedures to follow should they be assaulted or experience dangerous situations. Aside from the obvious, we will engage in future talks with law enforcement authorities from the Postal Inspection Service seeking guidance when these events occur. I promise to share this information with all of you as we move forward. In the meantime, stay attentive of your surroundings, get out of the immediate area when possible and contact law enforcement.

In closing, the AFL-CIO District Council voted unanimously to sponsor the costs of 40-thousand bags for our May 9th "Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive." I want to thank all the affiliates who donated $200 each in

support of America's great day of giving. On behalf of all the members of Branch 157, we thank you. Happy Easter Everyone