January 2004

Well, it's time for me to write my monthly article.  At first, I toyed with the idea I would ask Basil to run a guest article (because lately I seem to have almost no personal time).  It seems my NALC cell phone rings from 7 in the morning to 9 at night because branch 782 members require assistance.

I was really thinking that I would be able to take a break from writing a message to you this month about things you needed to be aware of.

But, I changed my mind because - once again - today I heard a management person say, "Welcome to the Van Nuys District". That was in response to my question that pertained to their position on newborn infants and their care.  

It is of no surprise to me how insensitive management can be. 

I have seen it in the past.  I have worked under those conditions and I have fought those conditions, as your union representative, for more than 20 years; however, it saddens me to know and see Letter Carriers who have only recently - up close and personal - experienced that callousness for themselves.

Whether it be a new mother who needs to care for her new born, or an ill/injured employee with special needs, it is as though they are no longer of any worth to the USPS.  They are treated as though they are a hindrance or as if they were a non-producing employee who is not trying.  They are made to feel that they should put the needs of the Service before those of their family. 

I know it is hard to believe that an employer could treat their employees the way some have been treated by the Postal Service management, but it is happening. 

If you (or someone you know) are being treated unprofessionally by management (if management is using foul language, or just being abusive) take notes and see if there are witnesses.

Management has the right to question performance or attendance (these are the two more common problems); however, it must be done in a professional manner.  If Management's demeanor when addressing employees is that of a demeaning attitude it is gieveable.  That is to say if a supervisor is talking to you and gets loud and abusive, points their finger in an intimidating way, or if they threaten you that is considered unprofessional behavior.

Note any body language.  Did they roll their eyes?  Snicker?  Throw their arms in the air?  Was there anything that could be construed as unprofessional? 

Management does have the right to expect you to be consistent, safe, and professional.   You have the right to expect management to be consistent, safe, and professional.

You should have noticed by now, that at the end of my articles I always include the note, "Be Professional".

As lately I seem to be constantly working on grievances, I thought I would compare some grievance statistics for the past three years.  There were some interesting facts that began to emerge.  They attest to the grievances for all offices and stations that we represent.  It is interesting to look at the grievance numbers comparing the years 2001 to 2003...

Hmmmm....

What does this all mean?

Our stewards are extremely busy addressing the ever growing disciplinary grievances that management is issuing!!!!

Again, I guess, "Welcome to the Van Nuys District".  What a humiliation that this would symbolize the image of the ANY District.  There is nothing but disgrace on a person who revels in this image or who would support it. 

On a more pleasant note, I was able to perform tasks that I enjoy most as your Branch 782 President.  That is to give our Branch awards to retiring Carriers. 

I went to Hillcrest to congratulate Brother Fred Acedo.  Fred is our Branch S.A.N.E. (Special Assistant Newsletter Editor) cartoon person.

It is great to see him have the opportunity to enjoy his retirement.  I know his patrons and fellow carriers will miss him.  It was always a pleasure to see him when I would make a station visit to Hillcrest as he always had a smile and a pleasant attitude.

I was also able to go to Dole Court Stations to present Brothers Joe Jones and Ray Scroggins with their checks from the Branch.

I have known Joe for thirty years and have not known a more dedicated employee.  I know the Postal Service has lost a first class worker.  They will be hard pressed to replace him.  I know Joe had over 40 years service when he retired and was drawing social security, yet he continued to give the Postal Service an exceptional days work.

I have known Ray for over 20 years and have never met a nicer person.  I used to look forward to seeing him because he always had a great joke.  He always seems happy and made the office time more pleasant for those around him.  I know his co-workers and patrons will miss him.  Ray is one of those co-workers who is also a friend and makes office life a little easier.

Brother Rick Plummer also retired out of Dole Court Station.  Rick is the Branch Web Master and has done an excellent job of designing our website and maintaining that web site.  His help is greatly appreciated.  I know he will really enjoy retirement, as will all the others.

I am sure I express each co-worker's sentiments when I wish each of you a "Happy and Long Retirement"!!!

In closing, let me remind you of something about your work as Letter Carriers for the USPS:  "It is JUST a job, nothing more.  If you expect more, eventually you WILL be disappointed."  Think about this concept....

Please attend YOUR next General Membership Meeting on January 27th at YOUR Union Office Building.

In Solidarity,

Frank Thomasy

President, Branch 782

Be Professional.

    Be Safe.

        Be Consistent.

                Be Proud.