I personally have championed this concept for a long time. Earlier in my career I was an Employee Involvement Facilitator. Employee Involvement was a joint process created by the NALC and USPS to inprove communications between letter carriers and Postal Management. The teachings I experienced there were the foundation of the "win-win" philosophy that I continue to ascribe to.

There have been numerous endeavors throughout the years that were joint undertakings of the NALC and the USPS. I have witnessed and participated in many.

As stated, I continue to espouse, "win-win". There are varying postures to any partnership. There is "walking the walk'" as opposed to "talling the talk". What they mean is you follow through on what you said you stand for, you "walk the walk" or, you say all the right things but don't deliver; you merely "talk the talk".

As I travel throughout Manhattan and the Bronx I have interacted with all levels of Postal Management including brand new supervisors. There seems to be some sort of class distinction, "us"', management, versus "them", letter carriers. Too many people in Postal Management have a perception of the letter carrier as a scourge ,or enmey . The climate on the workroom floor is far from positive. The 'partnership" I have frequeiatly alluded to here is a fantasy on the workfoom floor. Managers and supervisors especially, are constantly in crisis and the letter carriers usually the catalyst. The supervisors with the worst people skills are frequently :the "best producers" of the numbers. I don't believe in finger pointing, I prefer to name names and I will continue to work toward a workplace with respect for all.

I look forward to the efforts employed to make this vision a reality. I look forward to a proactive approach that will realize the goal of mutual trust and credbility. I look forward to all parties in the New York District "walking the walk".

The Branch 36, N.Y. District Local Memorandum Of Understanding is predominantly completed for both Manhattan and the Bronx. Some of the.changes incorporated into the locals were established and already in practice, such as Installation Wide Bidding. Here too, there were no surprises of major proportion; very little was modified. One major stumbling block in both LMOU's that could not be resolved and is likely heading to Arbitration is 1tem #2b. Item #2b pertains to changing rest days on letter carrier assignments. The Postal Service wants to change existing language of Item #2b.

Postal Management attempted to remove or reduce Branch 36's influence from this provision. Branch 36 is prepared to defend the existing language at Arbitration.

Many Branch 36 letter carriers have expressed their displeasure with the prospect and realization that the overtime they have been accustomed to is disappearing. The availability of unabated overtime has lasted for quite some time. However, many years ago then National President of the NALC, Vince Sombrotto, warned letter carriers not to base their financial needs on income fiom overtime. Overtime is not going to disappear. The additional staffing and the dreaded drop in first class mail volume will dictate the amount of overtime available. Letter carriers will continue to receive a fair day's pay for a fair day's work. Letter carriers will continue to demonstrate that they can do eight hours work in eight hours.

Postal management is presently employing a large number of Transitional Employees in the New York District. Transitional employees earn a decent wage and are Union members. Transitional employees have a process available to proceed to become letter carriers. The provisions regarding TE's is a huge departure fiom the hiring of "casual" employees. No longer does the "casual" exist in the letter carrier craft. The USPS decision to address staffing in this manner is their right. Improper staffing levels and overburdened routes created and perpetuated the overtime syndrome.

The membership of the entire NALC spoke loudly and in great numbers in ratifying the new contract. It is this level of involvement that is the strength of any organization and it is the same level of involvement that will deal successfully with the challenges that we will face next.

Exercising your right to vote on the new contract delivered the desired results for the overwhelming majority of those who participated. This success can and must be replicated with additional civil and poli!ical participation of letter carriers. You must join the network of activists; "eActivists", you must sign up for COLCPE contributions, preferably payroll deduction, You must join the "NALC VOLUNTEERS." The volunteers commit to give at least ten hours of their time to participate in NALC projects such as Get Out The Vote.

Our regularly scheduled Union meetings are routinely attended by the sme core group of members. I suspect the same group of interested letter carriers are reading this column. The number of members attending the Union meetings is growing and the number of talented, dedicated and committed members is also growing. I encourage you to discuss this column with a co-worker. I encourage you to read the Postal Record and discuss the articles and ideas and information you discovered in those pages with co-workers. Our members love the opportunity to learn and Branch 36 is committed to sharing the tools and information that our members want.

NALC President William H. Young has stated on numerous occasions that he would not ask the members to do that which he himself has not done. This is as it should be. I can tell you that I am an eActivist, a NALC Volunteer and a COLCPE contributor via payroll deduction. I have participated in many political rallies, demonstrations and campaigns as a NALC member. I have not been lone in these ventures and I cannot possibly name the many Branch 36 members who joined in. They know who they me. If you haven't contributed to any of Branch36 's acivities you don't know what you're missing. Our social activities, the annual Dinner Dance, the annual Picnic, the annual Day At Shea Stadium produce an overwhelming feeling of comraderie. Participation in a political rally or a State or National Convention will instill a tremendous feeling of pride, accomplishment and solidarity. When you join us, you become truly one of us. We welcome new energy and ideas.

To many of you this message may seem old. To some, many, I hope this message may be new. All of us must realize that change is constant. Nothing stays the same. We have enjoyed many recent successes, the contract, postal reform, and the victory against Contract Delivery Service to name some big ones. As profound as these accomplshments may be, our job is not done. It is no cry of "Wolf" to declare that our wages and benefits are in constant jeopardy. Protecting that which we have struggled for will never diminish; this is a work in progress. We cannot and will not relax and we need your help.

I am confident that many of the readers of this column are people I see and talk to on a routine basis. If you are not that familiar to me, come to a Union meeting and come and introduce yourself to me. I will be very happy to meet and know you. I am sure you will enjoy the experience as well.

Oh well, if it's November then its Holiday time. Within the upcoming months, as diverse as our membership is, virtually all of us will celebrate Holidays at this time.

There is much to be thankful for. Most importantly, I wish that everyone is enjoying good health.

There is stability-and prosperity in the workplace. Letter carriers have overwhelmingly approved a new collective bargaining agreement. We have secured our jobs, our wages and our benefits for the next five years. The leadership of the NALC has done a magnificent job. They struggled through protracted negotiations, prepared for impending Arbitration and managed to hammer out at a'negotiated settlement that the membership has embraced. In contrast to some of the debilitating losses being suffered by too many workers across America the NALC leadership has succeeded again.

Politically, 2008 will be vitally important. I will keep you informed of the letter carrier issues and the upcoming challenges and help guide you. The lessons of recent years have proven that political allies are invaluable. Political activism is a priority of the NALC.

As you read this, the Officers of Branch 36 will be coming around to the stations to greet each and every member for the Holiday season. Many of you will meet some of your Officers for the first time. It is an exciting time for them, they are anxious to meet all of you.

We all have a lot of work to do in the near hture to protect and preserve the letter carrier livelihood.

For now let us enjoy our Holidays with our families, Meny Christmas and best wishes to all.

Throughout Branch 36, every station was informed in advance that bulletins must be prominently posted notlfjmg the members that Shop Steward elections were taking place. Committees were established to conduct the elections. The committees were to make every effort to see that every member had an opportunity to nominate and vote for their choice for Shop Steward for the next three-year term.

As Shop Steward, there are many responsibilities. Attending all union meetings, Membership and Executive Board, is a must. It is at these meetings that information is shared. It is at these meetings that the education process unfolds. It is at these meetings that union members and representatives exchange ideas and define their goals. The union is a multifaceted organization. Among the union's objectives is lending itself to helping others. The food drive, the CFC and MDA are examples of the union's commitment to our community. COLCPE and e-Activism are key in the NALC's legislative initiative. Shop Stewards are paid officers of the union it is their duty to make every effort to contribute to the success of these exercises.

Shop Stewards must recognize that taking the position is their commitment to all of these duties, anything less is unacceptable. If you can't attend meetings, why take the job? If you don't support the NALC legislative agenda, why take the job? It is not enough for a Shop Steward to hold down the fort at their workplace. Becoming a Shop Steward makes you part of the team. As a team member you must participate in all of the team's goals.

Branch 36 is comprised of letter carriers from the Bronx and Manhattan, one of the largest branches in the entire 215,000 member National Association of Letter Carriers. Branch 36 is part of a network; each station in Branch 36 makes up a portion of that network. It is the network that is huge. It is belonging to the network that makes us strong. Our excellent Shop Stewards keep us strong.

Among the election results reported there were many surprises. Some of the old guard did not seek reelection and some shop stewards lost their reelection bids. There are many new Shop Stewards Welcome to the team. There are former Shop Stewards who have returned to the team. Welcome back. I look forward to working with all of the recently elected Shop Stewards. I look forward to helping them learn, and learning with them. I look forward to facing all the challenges with all of the Branch 36 Shop Stewards.

Let's Go Team.

This proposed agreement would be sent out to the membership for ratification. The package being sent out to members should contain a copy of the new agreement and a ballot with which members will indicate their wish to accept or reject the new pact.

It has been a long, arduous road to this juncture. President Young has been involved in contract negotiations with the PMG since about this time last year. This past year President Young and the National Officers have been visiting branches across the fifty states encouraging and informing all members about Postal Reform and educating letter carriers on the importance of legislation and political activism. I have no doubt that it was the efforts of the NALC and the actions of NALC members that produced Postal Reform. I am equally confident that the NALC and NALC members were responsible for procuring a more working family friendly Congress.

I was stunned when the Postal Service took steps to "privatize" delivery service. I felt as though letter carriers had saved the USPS and secured its future via Postal Reform, only to have the USPS attempt to use that success against letter carriers.

These actions taken by the Postal Service mobilized letter carriers once again. The legislative skills of the NALC went into action and letter carriers notified their Senators and Congresspersons of the need for legislative action to stop the USPS from privatizing deliveries. E-Activists sent e-mails, hard copy and telephone calls to their representatives decrying the actions of the Postal Service. Many locations across the nation held informational pickets.

Here in Region 15, NBA Larry Cirelli called for and coordinated an informational demonstration on Sunday, July 1" in Patterson, N.J. Hundreds of letter carriers came bearing picket signs telling the public of the USPS ill-advised actions. There were letter carriers present from the surrounding States and cities. They came from the end of Long Island, they came from Connecticut, all over New Jersey, upstate New York and the five boroughs. Branch 36 had at least fifty members with picket signs walking the line. am quite sure that you have been following with great interest the continuing struggle to secure a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (Contract). Many of you have asked: "What are we asking for?" or "What are we getting?" The proposals and counterproposals offered by the NALC and the U.S. Postal Service resulted in a tentative agreement. The parties had fashioned an innovative and far-reaching pact. Letter carriers who were familiar with the proposed new language and economics of the tentative agreement were heard to utter comments and opinions that covered the full spectrum from glee to disdain.

As a democratic organization the NALC will abide by the will of the membership regarding the acceptance or rejection of the contract agreement. Every member can and should participate.

There are those who will not be satisfied with this proposal. Those members will have their reasons and it is their right to vote "no".

There are those who will never be satisfied with any proposal. To those members I say: Are you an E-Activist? Do you contribute to COLCPE? Did you vote on Election Day? Did you vote for a Senator or Representative who supports letter carriers? Did you participate in the picketing or any other union activity to benefit letter carriers?

As stated previously, all members have the right to vote their choice. However, if you did nothing to contribute to the letter carrier cause how much value do you think your complaints have?

President Young and the National Officers worked diligently, sparing no effort to bring a contract proposal to the letter carriers of the NALC. President Young is both pleased and proud of this accomplishment, as he should be. I encourage you to reward these efforts with your vote for affirmation.

The National Association of Letter Carriers has been preparing for this eventuality. Excellent witnesses are being brought forth. The outstanding attorneys utilized by the NALC in interest arbitration are gearing up for the hearings.

Wages and benefits will be the goal of the NALC at arbitration. None of the extraordinary items of the tentative agreement will be addressed or considered, the NALC has withdrawn from these considerations.

There is a bigger picture here that you must be made aware of. The persons responsible for suppressing this agreement have been stalking the wages and benefits of letter carriers for a long time. The methods employed by these scoundrels are not always visible in Contract negotiations.

I have been given permission by Tri Valley California Branch 1111 President, Mr. Frank C. Salazar to reprint his article in the April, 2007 Postal Record. Please read:

The key to the breakdown in our tentative agreement was the refusal of the Postal Service to modify language regarding "contracting out," specifically language in Article 32. Current interpretation of Article 32 allows the Postal Service to contract our letter carrier duties. Previously such contracting was limited to expansive or rural areas. The Postal Service has changed its stance on this and has been contracting out letter carrier work in all locations including within the five boroughs of New York City.

This type of invocation of Article 32 is a flagrant act of "privatization" by the USPS. Letter carriers cannot and will not stand by and allow this to occur.

Upon learning of the existence of "privatization" within Branch 36, I immediately wrote letters to the Congressman and Senators serving that community.

In 2003, the USPS made a small revision to the Postal Operations Manual 10 where it refers to Highway Contract Service. Section 532.1 reads, "Box delivery routes are similar to rural delivery service and provide home or business delivery of mail in sparsely populated areas." Management dropped the last four words, changing the meaning of this section. No longer is HCS limited to sparsely populated areas. HCS can now deliver in highly dense city delivery areas. This small change of words is a direct threat to our craft and potentially the survival of the Postal Service. This is the reason why we are headed to arbitration.

But it doesn't stop liere. The Congressional Budget office is seeking ways to reduce benefits for federal employees and retirees. Over a five-year period, the CBO is contemplating paying a flat fee for our health care premiums, which will rise with inflation instead of through premium hikes, saving the government $9.7 billion; changing the high-3 to a high4 or -5, costing a CSRS retiree $6,530 and a FERS retiree $2,190 while saving the government $1.2 billion; reducing the matching funds for TSP, saving $2.1 billion; having us pay 0.5 percent more for retirement, saving $3.7 billion; and the list goes on. In short, our future is precarious.

We have to stay organized, united a vigilant. Now more than ever is the time to give to COLCPE and to join the e-Activist program. Get educated and involved now to stop the forces from aligning against us.

But though the mailboxes bear the Postal Service's familiar eagle's-head logo,'the middle-aged man who delivers the letters does not wear a mail carrier's uniform. And he drives a private car, not a postal vehicle, neighbors say.

"He's some kind of temporary mailman," offered a young man who had stepped outside to pick up his mail.

That he is not. Harbour Pointe at Shorehaven, in Classon Point.neighborhoods, the first place in the city where residents get some of their mail not from the typical uniformed, unionized letter carrier but from a private mail deliverer under contract with the United States Postal Service. Such private workers are delivering mail near Palm Beach, Fla., and Portland, Ore. But they are; relatively uncommon, serving only 6,400 of the Postal Service's roughly 250,000 routes nationwide.

The Shorehaven contractor, whsse name the Postal Service would not disclose, has a two-year contract, which started on Jan. 8, for $16,800 a year. He works only about an hour and a half a day, according to a schedule prepared by the Postal Service and provided by John Springmari, executive vice president of Branch 36 of the National Association of Letter Carriers, the mail deliverers union.

Patricia McGovern, a regional spokeswoman for the Postal Service, said that the man's hours would increase as Shorehaven added houses, and that this would eventually prompt a renegotiation of his contract. Hiring the nonunion worker was cheaper than using a regular letter carrier, Ms. McGovern added, in part because he provides his own transportation and must send or pay for a replacement if he cannot work.

Not surprisingly, the union is not happy with this state of affairs. "It's going to take away union jobs," Mr. Springman said. "In my exprience as a labor activist, once you establish a precedent, then you break open the gates. And that's our fear here, that the gates have been opened."

But Ms. McGovern said private carriers would be hired only for new devefopments like Shorehaven. "It wodd be in places where there was.noprevious delivery," said, "so you're not taking away from an area where a carrier is already delivering."

Mr. Springman was not mollified. "My union has struggled.to make us into professional letter carriers," he said. 'We're government; we are dedicated. We respect that, and we treasure that, and now to try to privatize that - what, the newspaper boy can be your mailman now?

Matters involving Washington, D.C:and the Congress are a work in progress, there is no end. Today's victory becomes yesterday's news. There will be a new struggle today and tomorrow and the next day.

YOU have been encouraged to become an eAdtivist. You have been encouraged to support COLCPE. I encourage you to sign up for payroll deduction to COLCPE. Don't hesitate or fail to do these things.The struggle is for your benefits, your wages and your future. This demands your attention. SIGN UP NOW ! !

Dear Mr. Crowley:

I am an official of New York Letter Carrier, Br 36, the largest local making up the National Association of Letter Carriers.
Branch 36 represents approximately 5,000 letters carriers who deliver the mail in Manhattan and the Bronx.
I have become aware that there is a developing situation in the Bronx, N.Y., presently, regarding contracting out of mail delivery.
A new condominium in the Cornell section of the Bronx is about to be occupied by tenants. These mail deliveries were anticipated by the U.S. Postal Service. The mail route that would service those new addresses was recently adjusted to accommodate the additional workload generated by the condominium coming on line.
The Postal Service has been observed installing equipment, specifically, mail receptacles at the condominium site. Postal management has been intimating, unoficially, that these will not be letter carrier deliveries. The Postal Service is entertaining contracting these deliveries to non-postal employees.
It is imperative that this issue be addressed now, before there is an actual contract regarding these deliveries.
Universal mail delivery dates back to the time of Ben Franklin. We cannot allow the privatization of the "Post Office" in the 21st century.
I ask your assistance in resisting the privatization of mail service for your constituents and my members' postal patrons.
It is with a sense of urgency that I appeal to you. Please let me know that I can count on your support in this matter. Let us put a stop to privatization of the U.S. Postal Service in the Bronx, New York.

Sincerely yours,
John G. Springman
First Vice-President/Treasurer

cc: David Soloman, U.S. Postal Service
Vinny Malloy, U.S. Postal Service
Tony Rosario, Bronx Postmaster
William H. Young, President NALC

Charlie has selected me as his Executive Vice President. I proudly accept the charge from Charlie and the members of Branch 36. I humbly thank Charlie and the members of Branch 36; it will be my great pleasure to continue to serve this great union, especially, the men and women of National Association of Letter Caniers Branch 36.

Harold and Tony were excellent stewards and officers in the field. They will now entertain a much broader audience. They will now network and negotiate with every level of Postal management, from front line supervisors up to and including the District Manager. The knowledge they possess of the contract and their astute people skills will serve them well in their expanded capacities.

A key responsibility they each will have is to teach and nurture their successors on the workroom floor. Sheila Mitchell of Manhattanville and Mike Perdomo of Oscar Garcia Rivera are not newcomers, they have been shop stewards working with Harold and Tony at their respective stations. Now Sheila and Mike will be the key players at their stations. New stewards will be elected by the carriers to, fill the vacancies resulting from Harold and Tony moving on. Sheila and Mike have been sharpening their skills at Branch 36 steward seminars, State and National conventions and their years of involvement as shop stewards.

Branch 36 prides itself on education we provide to our shop stewards, and members. Branch 36 conducts quarterly shop steward seminars and quarterly ' "Formal A designee workshops. The Branch offers Route Protection Training to any station about to undergo Route Count and Inspections.

Harold has been participating in Route Protection Training for some time in his capacity as Director of City Delivery. Howie Arotsky, the new Director of City Delivery has already assisted in training sessions offered at Planetarium and his home station, Cathedral. Howie, too, is a fantastic addition to the Branch 36 leadership. Howie is very knowledgeable and he is enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge.

Joe Ramos, who seems to be the Man Friday around here, continues as director of Retirees. Joe loves helping everybody, whatever the problem Joe will help you fix .it. Joe is a true Union man; he just wants to help.

Mike Kelly of Cooper Station is another dedicated and season leader joining the team. Mike has been plying his trade as shop steward for some years. Mike has been attending seminars, workshops and conventions in his quest for knowledge. Mike Kelly is a valued asset added to the-Branch leaderihip.

Two strong women are joining the team, Kathy Kirton of Peck Slip and "Nori" Amill of Parkchester Station. Both of these women have demonstrated a commitment to learning and participatirig in union 1eadership. Nori is already leading the way as one of the coordinators on the 2007 NALC USPS Food Drive. Kathy has been learning the ropes in a station where many changes are occurring. These changes are not only new to Kathy, they represent a transition at Peck Slip that is a new experience for craft and management. Kathy, though a rookie:, is not shy. She questions everything and confers with the branch personnel. Kathy's concerns are for the carriers she represents. She is eager to learn and to help.

"Sonny" Guadalupe is the new Compensation Officer. Sonny is a dedicated veteran of union activism. Sonny is a graduate of the NALC Leadership Academy in Washington, D.C. and has a thirst for knowledge, and a driving desire to help. He is new to "compensation" but as with everything Sonny does, he has immersed himself in manuals and other information materials to learn his field. Sonny will serve the members well.

All of these men and women have joined the leadership of Branch 36, the team known as "The Carriers Choice".
President .............................................................. Charlie Heege
Executive Vice President ...................................... .John Springman
First Vice PresidentITreasurer ........ ...................... Harold Hillard .
Second Vice PresidenWFin. Sec'y ........................ Patrick McNally
Recording Secretary ..................... ........................ Tony Ortiz
Director of Retirees ................................................ Joe Ramos
Editor of The Outlook ............................................ Leon Brown
Director of City Delivery ........................................ Howie Arotsky
Health Benefits Representative ............................... Tom Nelson
Compensation Officer............................................. Sonny Guadalupe
Mutual Benefits Representative ................................ Nori Amill
Sergeant-At-Arms ................................................. Eugene Spry
Trustees....................................................................Curtis Jewell
Trustees....................................................................Pascual Ortiz
Trustees...................................................................Gregg Levy
Auditors....................................................................Mike D'Angelo
Auditors....................................................................Frank Perez
Auditors....................................................................Mike Kelly
C.L.C. Delegates.......................................................Kathleen Kirton
C.L.C. Delegates.......................................................Awad Mikhael

The members of Branch 36 will continue to be served by the finest leadership as is the custom and tradition of New York Letter Carriers Branch 36.

On the other hand, there are letter carriers that remain focused on the struggles of the letter carrier. The struggle to improve and protect the hard earned wages and benefits of those letter carriers that deliver the nation's mail is at the forefront for many of us.

Some letter carriers know their rest day schedule for the next two years. Some letter carriers monitor the CPI so as to gauge the next COLA increase. Many letter carriers are mindful of the political process and its impact on letter carrier wages and benefits.

The amazing totals of dollars raised by letter carriers for COLCPE, MDA, CFC and other fund-raising endeavors bears tribute to the awareness, dedication and charity of letter carriers.

The annual Letter Carrier Food Drive and the Carrier Alert Program are just two of the many volunteer activities that accentuate the letter carriers' sense of community. Letter carriers are many things; they are thousands of men and women with diverse interests and motivations. Letter carriers do have one very solid connection, the Union, the NALC.

The NALC and the local branches. such as Branch 36, are the representatives of all letter carriers. The NALC and the local branches. such as Branch 36 are comprised of letter carriers. All of your representatives, from National President William H. Young. including your local representatives and shop stewards. are letter carriers.

As a Union. all members have a common goal. That goal is to obtain the best Collective Bargaining Agreement. or Contract. for letter carriers. Additionally. the goal is for all Officers and representatives of the Union to protect aqd defend that contract. One union rally cry is: "An injury to one is an injury to all." When the union goes forth with an issue it can be for one grievant or it can be for the entire body of letter carriers. When the Union faces any challenge, it is with you, it is for you and by you.

Currently. the NALC is in the process of negotiating or preparing to arbitrate the next Collective Bargaining Agreement. If that Contract is negotiated and agreed to by the NALC and the USPS, that Agreement will be sent out to every NALC member to vote his or her choice to accept or reject the pact. If the parties, NALC and USPS, cannot reach an agreement then the issue will move to a process of" Binding Arbitration Binding Arbitration is the process by which an outside party, an Arbitrator, considers the case made by both the NALC and the USPS and decides the final Contract that the parties will have to accept. Once the Arbitrator rules, the decision is final and binding.

Arbitration is a costly process, the last National Agreement that was decided by an Arbitrator, the Fleischli Award 1999, cost the NALC in excess of two million dollars in legal and other arbitration related expenses. That case resulted in City Letter Carriers being elevated to Level Six.

All Interest Arbitration cases do not always conclude in victory for letter carriers. Of great interest to Branch 36 members the past six years has been the "Wash up" case. In case you have not been informed, the arbitrator has ruled against Branch 36. The arbitrator has declared that Branch 36 letter carriers are not entitled to any monetary compensation for the period of time. approximately four years that our additional twentytwo minutes per day of "wash up" time was denied by the New York District Postal Service. Branch 36 employed the very same attorneys who have achieved an outstanding reputation in Washington, D.C. as advocates for the NALC. Branch 36 went forward with the best possible case. Branch 36 utilized all possible resources to prevail in this issue. Unfortunately, the arbitrator was not convinced and the monetary remedy sought by Branch 36 was denied.

This arbitration decision, while a tremendous disappointment to all of us members of Branch 36 is but one set back. Branch 36 made an extremely valiant effort to win this case. In our disappointment let me remind you that Branch 36 letter carriers continue to have the benefit of the additional twenty-two minutes per day of "wash up" time. Nothing was lost. In our disappointment let us remember that we have been through much turmoil and still there will be other disputes for us to confront. As members of the NALC, as members of Branch 36, as Union members, we are all in this together.

Those of you who participated in the democratic process and voted this past Election Day, I commend you. Those of you who support COLCPE, which helped pave the way to victory, I commend you. Those of you who are e-activists, I salute you. To the many brothers and sisters who did all of these things, I congratulate you; you have delivered for all letter carriers, BIG-TIME.

The recently concluded 65th Biennial National Convention empowered our NALC officers to pursue a host of negotiable items that were not published in the Bulletin. At this and previous conventions, letter carriers indicated a multitude of changes they would like to see included in the Agreement. Among those items, earlier retirement, additional Sick Leave = doubled, (26 days per year) safer work rules, zero tolerance = discipline for Management as for craft, in fact, there are hundreds more such recommendations. These recommendations constitute a "wish list", and the NALC negotiators do vigorously pursue all of the improvements letter carriers suggest. History shows the tremendous successes.the NALC has had. Our record of seccess buoyed us, and consequently, we anxiously anticipate any new enhancements to our Collective Bargaining Agreement.

The ability of the NALC and the USPS to negotiate our current historical five year contract is proof of their capability to negotiate and compromise and come away with a fair and equitable package with neither outside assistance nor interference. The current contract has served all parties well; this success can surely be repeated. Elections, legislation, negotiations, all works in progress, all bring varying degrees of success. No one accomplishment can actually bring total and final reward. You know the old saying, "You win some and you lose some." The game never ends.

The time has come for Frank M. Orapello to walk off into history. Frank has been the champion for Branch 36 for the 1990's. Frank led the letter carriers of Branch 36 into the 21st century, just as his mentor Vince Sombrotto led the NALC into the 21st century. It has been my honor and pleasure to have served with Frank.

Frank has a unique way of leading. He allows -his team - his officers and shop stewards, to tend to their responsibilities. He encourages and enables them to perfoim their best. He is always there to support or assist them, often unnoticed. The successes of any individual team member were sure to be lauded and acknowledged, and so Frank created a long line of Branch leaders. So many individual; Rave realized . personal success and promotion due to Frank's guidance. The list of names of Branch 36 carriers whose careers were launched by Frank, some to the pinnacle, is too long to cite here.

Branch 36 was not the sole beneficiary of Frank's leadership. Frank held positions of responsibility as an official on the state and national level as well as being president of Branch 36. NALC leaders from across the nation always sought Frank out.

Frank is a quiet, humble man. He just wants things to be fair and equitable. He is quite reasonable and accommodating. Try to be a bully or obstinate and you get to see a different Frank. Frank has a temper and has been known to display his anger. There I have been those who would provoke Frank, once. Frank would make his point and things would move on. Frank demanded that civility and respect be a two-way street. Frank empowered and encouraged me. He allowed me to do my best. Frank would praise a job well-done and offer advice if it were needed. It was my greatest pleasure to have Frank's approval for whatever it is I might have done.

At this time the reigning Champ of Branch 36 is going forth into a long, happy, healthy, well-deserved retirement. God bless you Frank.

That legacy was clearly shared with all of the delegates at the recently concluded 65th Biennial Convention in Las Vegas. President Emeritus Vincent R. Sombrotto was a catalyst in the 1970 Postal strike and Branch 36 staunchly supported that strike. Vince alluded to that monumental event in Postal history and acknowledged some of the Branch 36 convention delegates who were veterans of that unprecedented Postal strike. It was quite an emotional moment for those Branch 36 carriers whose actions did so muoh for future generations of Postal workers.

Vince's point was that the letter carrier struggle is a work in progress. The attendees of the 65th Biennial Convention and their .brothers and sisters back home in their stations are now in the batter's box. This is their time. This is their time to mobilize and pass Postal Reform.
This is their time to support "Gimme Five" for COLCPE, the letter carrierPAC.
This is their time to elect friends of letter carriers to the House of Representatives and the Senate.
This is their time to make claim to a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. negotiated by their NALC leaders and ratified by them, the letter carriers of the 21st century.

There are varying degrees of participation by Branch 36 members in union activities. For many, too many to name here, their involvement is outstanding. Branch 36 had numerous fund-raisers and celebrations recently. These dedicated men and women of Branch 36 gave so much of their time and effort to make these events successful. You can get a peek at many of them in action in the slide shows available at www.nylcbr.36.org our web site, that is itself a volunteered letter carrier creation.

At our last Union meeting I attempted to acknowledge some of the volunteers who were present. It was as if I thanked every person in the room. I did, inadvertently, miss some of those present. I apologize. Let me also give praise and thanks here to those who were not present.

I deliver a similar message at most union meetings; "Get involved and inform your brothers and sisters about what's going on." I would be preaching to the choir, in fact, I usually do when I give this message. However, as stated,earlier Branch 36, including those members not present at the meetings, deliver for letter carriers. Branch 36 is the perpetual leader in COLCPE nationwide. Additionally, it is no coincidence that the New York Congressional Caucus, including both U.S. Senators, is 100% for letter carriers.

Apparently, the members of Branch 36 can be counted upon to step up to the plate. Branch 36 has a legacy of leadership. Branch 36 members, as yon read this, know that this is your' time.

The Collective Bargaining Agreement is about to expire and the convention delegates will have their say regarding those items they want the National Officers to pursue in negotiations. There will, most likely, be some feedback from the National Officers giving an overview to the climate and attitudes surrounding the upcoming negotiations. Perhaps the power point program that President Young brought to New York this spring will be part of the information sharing.

First time conventioneers will be blown away. A National Convention is always thrilling, and your first experience is awesome. Throw in the collective bargaining discussions and the nominations for National Officers and a newcomer is sure to be mightily impressed.

Every participant, other than guests and su7port staff, is a letter camer. To experience the decorum and content of the convention debates and activities will fill you with pride at the realization that letter camers are quite professional.

The convention will cover a vast variety of subjects. Letter carriers will debate contract language and provisions that have been submitted as resolutions from branches across the nation. Delegates will hear reports on the state of various segments of the NALC such as MBA, Health Benefits, the Financial Secretary/Treasurer, etc. The subject of COLCPE will be prominent, as will Postal Reform and other Legislative matters. There will be guest speakers from Washington, D.C., an imposing array of Senators and Congressional Representatives.

MDA will once again be on hand to express their thanks to the NALC, the letter carriers, for their generous support and extreme long standing loyalty and commitment to a deserving cause.

There will be workshops before and after the convention sessions. An amazing education is guaranteed to each delegate who attends these workshops. In addition to the information each delegate can absorb, there is the enlightening experience of meeting your counterpart, brother or sister letter carriers who deliver mail in perhaps Yellowstone National Park, Hollywood, Key West, San Juan. You get the picture. Also consider that these same brothers and sisters are meeting with letter carriers who deliver mail to Times Square, Rockefeller Center, the Bronx Zoo, Yankee Stadium. It is a certainty that there can be some very interesting talk to share.

Those delegates from Branch 36 will represent those members back home in New York as the body forges a package for the National leaders to bring to the table upon the conclusion of the Convention. Additionally, those same delegates will participate in the process to elect a new slate of NALC leaders to face the immediate challenges sure to greet them.

I will be there; many of you will be there with me. We will do our part as delegates, and we will bring home the information and the highlights of our experiences to those back home at Branch 36.

Pat had been ill recently. At first Pat struggled with his symptoms, annoyed that he could not get over this bug. Then Pat's discomfort grew, and his impatience became concern. Pat's eternal optimism was ingrained in h i , and easily noticed by those of us who worked with him. We waited for the news that all would be well.

I particularly enjoyed talking politics with Pat. I would always preface our conversations with, "I'm a liberal and you're not, but ..." And Pat would always respond, "No, you're not a liberal ..." We would then delve into our conversation and as much as we both liked being contrary we usually came away in complete agreement.

Pat was the consummate family man. He loved his family, his very large family. Pat would share tidbits of his family episodes on holidays, or at weddings, communions, or just plain weekends. Pat would beam as he relayed tales of his wife Barbara, or his son PJ, or his daughters, Patsy, Mary, Linda, Jean, and Barbara. His stories always portrayed his love and pride for each and every family member.

Pat was a rare gem who loved the world. If Pat liked someone or something, his first inclination was to share what he had found. In Pat's world there was immense pride, love, and joy. I thank Pat for having introduced me to his family and friends over the years. Pat was a gift, a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. All who knew him are at a loss today.

God bless you Pat. May you rest in peace.

The NALC provided every member with potent, invaluable material when they sent out the Route Protection Pocket Handbook. Knowledge and information are powerful tools for letter carriers to possess when facing the challenges of route inspections.

Many discussions have taken place in recent years, nationally and locally, attempting to create a joint process for route adjustments. Some areas have created a workable joint solution. Branch 36 has proposed a joint team concept to the U.S.P.S. New York District management. Management has not embraced the formal plan drafted by the Branch, however, it is being utilized in various forms at many stations.

As a result of an Arbitration hearing in which management admitted that it neglected to follow up on route adjustments it had performed at FDR Station, New York District management asked Branch 36 to jointly review and implement route adjustments at FDR Station. Letter carriers Leon Brown and Dudley Menzies have heen working with management counterparts to review and adjust FDR routes as necessary.

Comell Station in the Bronx is slated to be the first major undertaking of the team concept in the New York District. Eileen Weese of Woodlawn Station and Gregg Levy of Riverdale Station will work with management counterparts to "right size" Comell Station. The Postmaster of the Bronx, Mr. Tony Rosario, did sign an agreement to employ the "team concept" at Cornell. The parties fully expect to continue this practice throughout the Bronx.

Numerous changes effecting Collections and Combo assignments in Manhattan have been implemented, others are forthcoming. In every case the letter carriers were, or should have been, solicited for their input. The decisions involving changes were not always favorably received. Some changes were well received. Change is often resisted, that's human nature. Change is not always good. Change however, is inevitable. I like to think that if you have a say in the outcome, it is more palatable. Unlike recent route inspections the Collection and Combo changes did not result in lost assignments. Letter carrier input and no lost assignments is definitely a better way.

The duties and responsibilities of letter camers are increasing every day. In an effort to compete, the products and services offered by the U.S. Postal Service are quite diverse but often labor intensive. Once empty lots are now new addresses receiving mail delivery. Despite the influences of automation, letter carrier productivity is through the roof.

The Postal Service woefully cites the loss of First Class Mail and constantly harasses letter carriers under the auspices of improved letter canier efficiency. President Emeritus Vince Sombrotto long ago declared that this union would do all it could to save the U.S. Postal Service. I'm not sure if he meant with them or from them.

The Food Drive and Customer Connect are excellent examples of the union and management working together for a common goal. The survival and success of the Postal Service is common to us all. We are capable of incredible accomplishments if we team up and pool our talents. It appears that we are working together presently in the New York District. Hopefully this will result in a foundation upon which a positive and productive future evolves for Branch 36 members and the U.S.P.S., New York District.

I was privileged to have Mario DeLuca as a friend and mentor. In 1984 as a newly elected shop steward, I did not have a close personal relationship with Mario. Mario was Executive Vice-president of Branch 36, and I was a new shop steward from Woodlawn Station, up at the far northern edge of the Bronx.
As a novice there was so much for me to learn, but it was my good

During my years as shop steward I attended many union meetings, many union seminars, and I fervently read the Branch 36 Outlook. My focus was always primarily on what Mario DeLuca had to share.

Mario was a proud and confident man who always had time for a letter carrier. There are many words that can portray Mario, but my favorite would be tenacious. Mario was firm in his conviction, and if you weren't with him, he was going to do his best to win you over. Mario would not stand for any impropriety from postal management, not even an honest mistake. Mario represented letter carriers, and he would permit no harm to letter caniers on his watch.

Mario soon was elevated to Regional Administrative Assistant for Region15. Mario would now represent letter carriers from numerous branches throughout the metropolitan area. Mario would now advocate arbitration cases concerning all types of letter canier issues.

Mario shared his knowledge and information with those who were interested. Needless to say, Mario usuallyhad an audience. Each step forward for Mario was a step forward for all who knew him. Across the years I formed a wonderful bond of friendship with Mario. His wife Nan and my wife Carol became friendly too. Mario loved his family. He would light up when he spoke of his children and grandchildren. I feel fortunate to have told Mario how important he was to me. Mario gave so much to me, but Mario gave so much to everyone. Sadly, there are not many like Mario. Even more sadly, we don't have Mario anymore. Rest in peace Mario.

We all made it through, most joyously, I hope, another Holiday season. New Yorkers also made it through the recent transit strike.

Letter carriers have much more to look forward to in 2006. Postal Reform is still a very viable issue despite the efforts of Senator Bond (R-Missouri) to shelve S. 662 on the back burner indefinitely. The letter carriers of Missouri in conjunction with NALC president Bill Young utilized the E-Activist network, the telephone, the medi3and informational picketing to get Senator Bond's attention. Senator Bond, who previously

Twenty 0 Six, will also be the year The NALC holds its' 62nd biennial convention in Las Vegas, Nevada. This convention will have huge ramifications on all letter carriers. Among the many items on the Convention agenda are:
Contract negotiations, the current Collective Bargaining Agreement expires this November
Nominations for National Officers, the current term of office expires this December.
Branch 36 will send a full delegation of seventy-five delegates to the Convention to lend their voices to the many spirited debates.

DOIS remains a thorn in the side of all letter carriers. Our National leaders are contesting many aspects that comprise DOIS. The flaws that our leaders have discovered compromise the entire software program rendering it inaccurate and thus invalid. These issues are pending national level arbitration. Until a definitive ruling is issued DOIS will not govern letter carrier workloads. Letter carriers should continue to assess their daily needs and submit Forrn 3996, as they deem necessary.

Letter carriers have the opportunity to control their own destiny. All the ink in this space dedicated to Postal Reform has been a call for solidarity. It appears that success is at hand. This demonstration proves that letter carrier participation delivers results. Imagine what we can accomplish with more participation. All letter carriers must join together. All letter carriers should sign up for COLCPE payroll deduction. The struggles that are taking place should have the support of all. The fruits of those struggles, after all, are enjoyed by all. There is strength in numberywe must grow the number of COLCPE contributors. We must strengthen the resolve of all letter carriers

Surely an interesting and eventful year lies ahead. With your help the NALC can win the day again, and you are the NALC.

The importance of Postal Reform will not allow me to shy away from keeping it in front of you. The communications industry is undergoing a major transition. The forces of technology and competition have changed the communications methods and products available to Postal Service customers. The Internet has seemingly removed written communications from the mail stream. The facsimile (fax) machine has equally removed written communications from the mail stream. The Postal Service must continue to provide affordable products and services to the American public.

Letter carriers on the workroom floor may not have the time or the inclination to concern themselves with changes that the Postal Service' corporate leadership are making Postal customers aware of Postal Service products and services. The NALC has long held the position that letter carriers can and will use their talents and skills to help protect and preserve the U.S. Postal Service as a valuable and viable American institution.

Let me remind you of the extreme importance of COLCPE. E-activists and any and all grass roots methods letter carriers are participating in to finalize a Postal Reform package. Meaningful Postal Reform that will allow thelegacy of the U.S. Postal Service and the American letter carrier to continue to thrive and prosper.
We began this dialogue with visions of grandeur: let's pick that thought again.
Happy Holidays to everyone.

The NALC knows that knowledge is key. When letter carriers know what's going on there are no mistakes or surprises. Letter carriers can raise contentions and challenge route inspections. Letter carriers must monitor the C & I process and be prepared to document any discrepancies or violations.

Numerous letter carriers have inquired recently about Special Count and Inspections, 271g of the M-39. The MOU in the National Agreement further provides that when a letter carrier makes a request for a Special Count and Inspection and the criteria, utilization of auxiliary assistance and/or overtime on three or more days during each of the preceeding six weeks has been met, that route must be inspected within four weeks of the request. Any adjustments indicated by the test results must then be implemented within fifty-two days of the C & I completion.

Regarding DOIS it must be said one more time; DOIS is merely a management tool. DOIS is a program, that when improperly used provides inaccurate information. The letter carriers must still assess their daily workload and inform management if help or overtime is needed. Management's reponse utilizing DOIS data does not negate or modify the letter carrier's request. Letter carriers cannot do nine hours work in eight hours. Letter carriers must not take short cuts. letter carriers, must not skip breaks or lunch, do not prove yourself wrong. There is a National Level grievance pending arbitration regarding the DOIS program.

Sadly. I must infonn you of the passing of brother Al Marino. Al Marino was one of the remaining "old soldiers" of Branch 36. Al was one of the "Rank and Filers" who spearheaded Branch 36 In the Great Postal Strike of 1970. Shortly after the strike, as a result of the reformation of Branch 36's leadership,Al began his rise in the union. Al held every office in Branch 36 with the exception of President. After retiring from the umon in 1987 Al soon discovered that he needed to return to his union activism. Al asked President Orapello how he could help and once again. Big Al was back on the team.

:In recent years. although Al was officially the Director of Retirees for Branch 36. Al wore so many hats he could have been the Mad Hatter. Al was also involved in Safety and Health and Welfare and Scholarships. Al loved awarding scholarships to the children or Branch 36 letter carriers.Al loved getting up at Membership meetings to give reports and updates on news and informatiorl that he had. He loved to share: he loved to help. Recently, a new kid on the block, Sonny Guadalupe of Lenox Hill (Al's station) forged a relationship in which Al proudly exchanged his ideas and information. Sonny, a participant in the NALC Leadership program was eager to learn of Al's experiences from the strike days to the present.

Al was always willing and anxious to help everyone. I learned much from Al. He became concerned recently about his health and went into the hospital for some tests. Charlie and I visitedA1 in the hospital. Al was upbeat but concerned. I thought he looked great; a few days later Al was gone. It was shocking to me and to all of us who worked together with A1 here at the Branch office. Al will be sorely missed. Rest in Peace Al.

It is also summer in our nation's capitol, however, there is business being conducted there while we're making hay. The business of running the country is a work in progress, it never stops. Sure congressmen and senators have liberal working schedules but they do take care of business as needed.

The NALC and most of you have weighed in to your congressional representatives in an effort to finalize H.R. 22 and S. 662 in their current form. The EActivist network was notified by the NALC and we mobilized. We, the NALC, myself, and most of you now wait patiently for news from our nation's capitol that Postal Reform has been accomplished. Then we can exhale.

Have a safe and memorable summer. You earned it.