WIRLCA NEWS

Fall 2018

Wisconsin Rural Letter

Carriers’ Association Vol. CCXVI I I Issue #5 Membership Drive 2018

IN THIS ISSUE Officers Contact Info and Reports-pages 2-13 Chaplain’s Corner page14 Recent Deceased page 14 New Members-page 15 NRLCA Forms 1187 & 1187R-pages 16-17 2018 National Convention report–pages 18-21 Longevity Awards & Recent Retirees-page 22

Auxiliary News-pages 23 Fall Region map and schedule-pages 24-25

District Representative reports-pages 26-29 Classifieds-page 30

Steward Contact Information-page 31 Coming Events-back page

Become a Member...

Become an Involved Member...put the “U”

and “I” in Union

-Michael Gan, NRLCA Legal Counsel in response to the changes affecting the USPS and Rural Carriers

.our very existence as a craft is being challenged The NRLCA is willing to work with the Postal Service

.to make sure this does not occur This is something .the union does for you daily

-Ronald Berg, President WIRLCA

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The WIRLCA News is published at a minimum of 4 mes per year using a “Non‐Profit Periodical’” Permit –Portage, WI. Printed at O’Brion Agency in Portage, WI. Members in good standing will receive each edi on of the paper. A recruitment issue will be published and mailed to all members and non‐members once per year. Full General Standard Opera ng Procedures are printed in Appendix H of the WIRLCA Board Policies.

State Of icers

If you have a contract or discipline issue, please use the contact information located at the end of this publication, under “District Representatives & Assignments

CONTACT Information AREA ASSIGNMENTS

Ron Berg-President 402 Dalogasa Dr. Arena, WI 53503-9112

608-753-3053 Email-Ronald.Berg@nrlca.org

Fond du Lac/Green Lake, Waushara, Winnebago, Waupaca, Outagamie Region6

Robert "Bob" Lueck-Vice President, PAC Chair 1417 Oak St. Watertown, Wi 53098-1136

920-285-6867 Email-rlueck@wirlca.org

Dodge, Milwaukee/Waukesha, Jefferson, Rock/Walworth/Lafayette/Green (Stateline), Racine/Kenosha, Cal-Man-She Regions9&11

Ellen Pulver Secretary/Treasurer PO Box 39 Wyocena, WI 53969 608-617-4704 Email-Ellen.Pulver@nrlca.org

Brown/Shawano, Columbia, Door/Kewaunee, Ozaukee/Washington Region4

Dawn Pingel – Assistant Secretary/Treasurer 19398 Juneau Road Wilton, WI 54670-6121 608-343-7869 Email Dawn.Pingel@nrlca.org

Buffalo/Trempealeau/Jackson, LaCrosse, Monroe/Juneau, Adams/Marquette, Wood/Portage Regions7&8

Susan Tiffany-Chairperson Executive Committee, Provident Guild Representative

2160 Old Road Tomahawk, WI 54487 715-612-2060 Email-susantiffany@wirlca.org

Lincoln/Langlade, Marathon/Clark, Marinette, Oconto, Price/Taylor, Tri-County Regions2&5

Frances Smidt-Committeeperson, Auto Insurance Representative

E1295 Cedar Rd. Eau Claire, WI 54701-9630 715- 450-1881 Email-fsmidt@wirlca.org

Barron/Washburn, Chippewa/Eau Claire, Dunn, Lake Superior, Pierce/Pepin, Polk/Burnett, Northern Wa-ters, Price/Taylor

Regions1&3

Jason Johnson-Committeeperson 630 Keep St. Darlington, WI 53530 608-482-1280 Email-jjohnson@wirlca.org

Vernon, Crawford, Grant/Iowa, Dane, Sauk/Richland Region10

Letters to the Editor-Note:Letterstotheeditorarelimitedto150words.Libelousorslanderousletterswillnotbeaccepted.LetterstotheEditor willbeprintedona“first‐come”basis,dependingonavailablespace.Allletterstotheeditormustbesigned. Anonymousletterswillnotbeaccepted.TheWIRLCAssociationandStateBoardarenotresponsibleforthecontentofletterstotheeditorandtakenopositionontheircontent.

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WelcometotheFalleditionoftheWIRLCANewsletter!

I know many of you have been members for a long time, some as long as 70 years. As president of the WIRLCA I cannot express the gratitude of your support, a simple thank you is all I can offer. Thank You for your membership!

This edition of the WIRLCA news is going to all carriers including non-members. I am asking members to help recruit non-members. I am also asking non-members to be willing to listen to our points and make the decision to join our team.

I recently attended the NRLCA national conven-tion, in Grand Rapids Michigan. I truly wish that all could attend this function. The truth of the matter is you can. If you are a member, you are welcome to attend (Article 24 of our National Agreement). If you are elected as a delegate, you have the right to vote on all issues brought be-fore the body at the convention. Many things are debated, both sides heard and a vote is taken. This year’s resolutions covered a lot of areas. One major area was RCA’s pay, RCA work rules, and RCA retention. It was made crystal clear to our national board that relief carrier issues and retention rates of RCAs need to be addressed. This is very apparent when the Postmaster Gen-eral spoke to our group. PMG Brennan whole heartedly agrees with these problems and con-tinues to work with the NRLCA to try and im-prove this nationwide dilemma concerning RCAs. The NRLCA has in the past, and will in the future, continue to address this very dif icult issue. This is a behind the scenes battle the National Rural Letter Carriers union addresses daily. This is one of those “Whatdoestheuniondoforme?”things. One that we can only work on the improvement of the current, broken system. A solid replace-ment carrier system not only can be, but must be achieved.

Another topic was brought to light was the new evaluated pay time study. The time study has been completed and the new time standards are ready to be implemented. This will involve a lot of time by the Postal Service to get this system ready to go live. This will involve plotting and

mapping every route in America. This will be a huge task. This project will need to be monitored and the transparency of the entire process is completely required. The NRLCA is skilled in all areas of the new system. All rural carriers expect to be paid correctly, and this is something your union is doing for you, daily.

General Counsel for the NRLCA, Michael Gan, also addressed the convention. He did have an inter-esting speech, to say the least. Many of you are familiar with the series, “GameofThrones”. He started out with the phrase “Winter is coming”. The meaning behind these words is one of warn-ing and constant vigilance. This message of pre-paredness is possibly our greatest challenge moving forward as a craft as well for the Postal Service. The Trump task force on postal reform is looming. The very existence of the Postal Service as we know it is at stake. The proposed cuts in universal service to rural areas is huge. If these cuts are allowed, our very existence as a craft is being challenged. The NRLCA is willing to work with the Postal Service to make sure this does not occur. This is something the union does for you daily.

In this edition, you will read about the many ben-e its that being a member of the NRLCA provides. The Rural Carrier Health Bene it plan, National General vehicle insurance and legislative issues. Please take the time to ill out the dues with-holding (membership) form in this edition and join the only group that has your interest as a ru-ral carrier on the front burner every day. Re-member “Winter is Coming” we need to be a team. Thank you for the time to read and enjoy this edition.

Ron Berg-President, WIRLCA

Ron Berg President

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WinterIsComing!!!! I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s a fact in more

ways than one. This is the message the delegates to the national convention at Grand Rapids re-ceived from legal counsel Michael Gan. Michael was using the reference used again and again in the popular series “Game of Thrones” to make his point that the NRLCA has many challenges ahead in the immediate future. In no particular order of importance, let me sum-marize. 1) We continue to negotiate with the Postal Service for a new contract. Our contract expired in May and negotiations continue. 2) The release of the Presidential Postal Task Force recommendations are not going to be released until after the midterms. But a possible preview, that was released as part of a govern-ment wide reorganization, included privatization as a solution to the Postal Service’s inancial shortfalls. This is a cause of concern, although any major changes would have to be approved by congress. This is a good reason to contact your representative and make sure they under-stand how detrimental this would be to Rural Carriers. 3) The new Rural Route evaluated com-pensation system called RRECS has been re-leased but the process of implementation has to be agreed upon by the Postal Service and the NRLCA. It will take some time without a doubt. 4) The midterm elections are fast ap-proaching and the outcome will most de initely affect Postal Legislation. 5) A lawsuit dealing with heat safety and providing a safe work place environment contin-ues. These are the major issues that face our newly elected National board, along with our legal counsel and legislative department. What can we as members do to help? Probably

the easiest thing to do is educate ourselves on the issues and then contact your congressional representatives in order to educate them on the issues that affect Rural Carriers. Maybe even eas-ier than that is making sure we exercise our priv-ilege to vote, this privilege has been won for us many times over by those who have fought for our freedom. Remember many have paid the ul-timate price in order for us to enjoy our basic rights. Another way to help is to support the NRLCA PAC (Political Action Committee) in anyway you can. Even a one-time contribution of 5 or 10 dol-lars adds to the amount of support that the NRLCA can show to those legislators who sup-port us. Remember, the only source of revenue that PAC receives are contributions by active and retired rural carriers. No dues money goes to support any candidate. Another thing to keep in mind is that our PAC is non-partisan and one of only a few PAC’s that can make that statement. Although just because we support a particular individuals’ candidacy it isn’t a guarantee that they will vote our way all the time, but it is a way for us to keep a legislator well informed on an issue so in short PAC helps us to get legislators to listen to us. I want to wrap up with a little math exercise, as I indicated earlier a single contribution can be very helpful. When you take into account that around only 4% of the membership contribute to PAC and Wisconsin raised $16,894.50 for the 2018 PAC year that ended July 31st. Consider for a moment that if another 75% gave just $5.00 it would add another $12,000.00 to the total from Wisconsin and we would be getting close to some of our Big Ten neighbors in total yearly contributions. I’m counting on that competitive “Badger Spirit” here. Finally, if anyone is ambi-tious and likes numbers and has a bit of time on their hands, check out www.fec.gov. This is the governing body of all things concerning elec-tions, including PAC’s. Anyone can do a search for contributions made to a candidate’s cam-paign. Say, for instance, if you would like to know who the NRLCA has contributed to in the past. Continuedonnextpage

Bob Lueck Vice President

PAC Chair

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Continuedfrompreviouspage Or if you would like to see who our competitors are supporting...just something to do when it starts to get cold, because... don’t forget... “Winter is Coming”. Bob L, Vice President WIRLCA

It’s election season. Certain political activities CAN affect your employment with

the United States Postal Service!

FOR MORE INFO AND COMPLETE GUIDELINES-GO TO WWW.OSC.GOV

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October is Domestic Abuse Awareness Month. I bring this to your attention be-cause as much as we think

we know about one another, we just never really know what is happening. And, because we can, upon occasion, encounter similar behaviors at the hands of those in charge. It is important to recognize these subtle indicators, especially in our workplace, and to take intervention steps early. So what really is abuse? Well, the obvious an-swers can be bruises, broken bones, and other physical indicators. Emotional abuse…. Well now that’s a little trickier. Abuse in any form is all about power and con-trol. Some use physical means to exert con-trol; others utilize more elusive means to gain this power and control. Means such as intimidation, mind games, put downs, and isola-tion. These, and many other types of indirect ac-tions, are hard to pinpoint – unless you witness it irsthand – as a victim or witness.

In case you may not have guessed yet, I am a SURVIVOR. Not just of domestic abuse but also of emotional abuse in the workplace. Victims and survivors aren’t always easy to pick out. They blend in to a crowd (which may be a coping method for them), and come in all shapes, sizes, backgrounds, education and economic levels. It can affect any one of us – at any time. Also, some-times, you don’t realize you’re in an abusive rela-tionship (use broad de inition of this word here), until one of the parties involved calls attention to it (or leaves). At a recent Mid-States Conference, one of the feature presentations dealt with the emotional abuse of employees at the hands of the employer and the language we ALREADY HAVE IN PLACE which deals with it. In several instanc-es, arbitrators have stated managers inherently

have the “upper hand” so to speak and must take care to treat employees with respect and dignity in different awards which favored the employee. As carriers, we need to look out for one another. While we don’t want to have our concern for co-workers be confused for stalking (a WHOLE oth-er story!), we do owe it to one another to support each other when needed. To that end, it is always good to read the “Joint Statement” available at www.nrlca.org (search “joint statement”). An ex-cerpt of the statement can be found on page 7. For a number of years, the “Zero Tolerance” poli-cy has been in effect. However, it is up to us -- each one of us – to hold them to the commitment they pledged in 1992. If you feel harassed, bul-lied, or intimidated, reach out to your steward contacts. If you see a co-worker being harassed, bullied or intimidated by others in your work-place – regardless of position – speak up. If you

witness indirect physi-cal abuse such as a co-worker who throws or pushes things around violently, speak up. I say contacts because sometimes it is easier

to reach out to an uninvolved party. The inside back cover of this newsletter is a great resource for steward contact information. Another re-source is EAP, ph. 1-800-327-4963. This employ-er provided FREE service is available to all postal employees and their immediate family members. As members of our community, we also need to look out for one another. In some cases, we are the only contact with the outside world some of our customers have. Be observant, pay attention and remember to, above all, be nice. Try (hard as it may be) to never be so busy doing your job that you miss an opportunity to help another in crisis. Sometimes it is as simple as just listening. In my experience, sometimes you just need to talk (at length, repeatedly, randomly, etc), before you can make a move to correct a situation. Ellen Pulver, Secretary/Treasurer

ELLEN PULVER Secretary/Treasurer

Yourin luenceasaleaderwillincreasewhenyouempowerothers’strengths,whichinreturnequipsthemtopursuetheircallings,nottheir

shortcomings.‐FarshadAsl

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Did you know a “complaint form” can be obtained from your immediate supervisor? Ask them for it. (and for those of you who are curious this postal form, it is also known as a PS8191 – totally able to be “googled”). The following is a highlighted portion of the 1992 “Joint Statement on Violence and Behavior in the Workplace”. –EP Note:Thisshouldbepostedoneveremployeebulletinboard‐DRRiess

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DAWN PINGEL Assistant Secretary/

Treasurer

WhathastheuniondonefortheRCA?(PartI)

I see these remarks on Facebook or on various rural carrier sites and I hear the comments among fellow RCA’s wondering what exactly our union has done (or not done) for them. Most RCA’s that have been hired in the last ive years just see the here and now and not the ‘before they were here times’. Our union has done more than we ever could on our own. What RCA’s (and some regulars) tend to forget is that things take time. We are in a generation where instant grati ication seems to be the “norm”, when reality is that things still take time to achieve. This article is not going to be a ‘short one.’ In or-der to understand the full impact of what our un-ion has done for us, we irst need to step back and look at the evolvement of the Postal Department (name at the time), the union and the rural carrier position. My story starts at the beginning of when Rural Free Delivery started (or was documented). Prior to 1897 rural carriers made $200 a year and had to provide their own horse and buggy or wag-on. -1897 to 1902: salaries increased $100 a year bringing the salary to $600 annually. -September 12, 1903: The National Rural Letter Carrier Union was formed. At this convention, a $200 per year Equipment Maintenance Allowance (EMA) was requested to help maintain the neces-sary out it for transport of mails. Membership dues were set at $1.00 but later reduced to $0.50. -1904, the union secured a $120 annual raise making the yearly income $720. They did advo-cate that rural carriers would wear a uniform if the Postal Department would increase the annual salary to $850. -1906, rural carriers were granted six national holidays. (not speci ied) -1907, salaries were increased to $900 a year; carriers were granted 15 days of annual leave; carriers were not required to stop at mailboxes

having no mail; the signal system was approved & the lock pouch allowance request had yet to be granted. -1908, the union petitioned the Postal Depart-ment for additional compensation when a route exceeded the 24-mile standard; union petitioned that carriers be allowed to leave letters without postage (a.k.a. ‘penny nuisance’). -1912 – issues addressed by the union included the ‘penny nuisance’, the need for EMA, space problem because of the authorized parcel post; a few rural carriers were using motor vehicles and covering routes in half the time and the Postal De-partment wanted to reduce their pay; recruitment and retention of substitutes was becoming a ma-jor issue; Association sought preference for sub-stitutes for illing rural vacancies. -1914 – The Postal Department proposed that ru-ral service be converted to a contract service to reduce costs – Congress was reluctant due to the service being well received and they didn’t sup-port the idea. This impart was due to the good re-lationship between Congress and the NRLCA. -1915 – The Postal Department and NRLCA rela-tionship had deteriorated due to the relationship the NRLCA had with Congress; The Postal Depart-ment was ignoring the NRLCA’s petitions and re-fused to meet with of icers; the Postal Depart-ment prohibited the use of motorcycles on routes which had been previously approved; routes were lengthened as motor vehicles became more prevalent and routes were consolidated and rural carriers were excessed (the no layoff clause did not exist); the NRLCA endorsed the formation of a civil service retirement system. (source:NationalRuralLetterCarriersAssociation)As you can see, one issue our union was facing at that time, regarding RCA retention, is the same we still face today. We can also see that our union faced the excessing of carriers when there was a shortage of substitutes. Our union showed that they had to keep ighting to get the things we needed for our job, every year, as you can see with the EMA. As this article continues, you will see other issues that our union had to keep ighting for and just how long things took to

achieve those missions. Continuedonnextpage

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Wishyouwerethere!

Yes, I wish you had been there, then I wouldn’t have to write this summery of the 114th National Rural Letter Carriers’ Associations Convention in Grand Rapids! And boy, oh boy, what a conven-tion it was. Now don’t get the wrong idea, its not all fun and parties. In fact, it’s quite busy and ex-hausting.

Seminars and meetings began Monday morning and ran through the evening, so we were off to a running start right away. There was a full house for the State of the Union Update. President Dwyer gave us an update on the new Rural Route Evaluated Compensation System (RRECS). I’m not going to get into what was said because it was al-so explained in the August issue of the National Magazine. What I will tell you is that you need to have patience with the implementation process. It’s not going to happen overnight. There’s a lot of training of carriers that has to happen before it can go into effect.

Tuesday morning was the joint session ,where we heard an uplifting speech from Megan Brennan, PMG. She is as concerned about our future as we are. We are at the mercy of Congress which isn’t doing much lately. But with that said, it would take an act of Congress to privatize the Postal Ser-vice, and they can’t pass a reform bill let alone one to destroy the USPS. The rest of the day was illed with speakers, awards, reports and semi-

nars.

Wednesday was more reports and awards, then nominations for National Of ice. We started the afternoon with Constitution changes. There were 20 proposed amendment changes. Only 3 passed

and they were pertaining to hav-ing the national delegate nomina-tion process start earlier for those states that have earlier conventions. The biennial conven-tion was brought up again, it was discussed, de-bated and voted down despite the cost savings to National and the individual states.

The body then voted to hear the Report of the Ap-peals Committee. This was done because the de-termination of some of the appeals may have an impact on the elections. Two of the appeals were not related to the other 16 appeals and were dis-cussed and decisions voted on. The other 14 were all internal within the national board. After much discussion, and there was a lot of discussion, a determination was made and voted on. Then a decision by the charging party was made to with-draw the remaining appeals. Whew, that would have made for an extremely long session.

Thursday, we continued the agenda with reports from the Resolutions Committee. There were 12 binding resolutions and 285 non-binding resolu-tions. Now I’m not going to tell you about all the ones that passed or failed. If you want to see what resolutions there were you may request a copy of the convention proceedings. But a little recap on what they were about, is what I can do for you.

Continuedonnextpage

Susan Tiffany CHAIR, Executive Committee PROVIDENT GUILD REPRESENTATIVE

ContinuedfrompreviouspageI can only hope that non-members see the importance of our union and will join in the ight to keep what we have achieved over the many years and to continue to better our craft in years to come. Remember: UNITED WE STAND ALONE WE FALL Dawn Pingel, Assistant Secretary/Treasurer Stay tuned, to be continued…. If you haven’t taken advantage of membership, then simply ill out the appropriate form on page 16 or 17 to make sure you receive the next edition!

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Continuedfrompreviouspage

There were 22 resolutions on bene its, 1 on EMA, 8 on grievance procedures, 58 on leave replace-ments, 11 on mail count, 19 on relief days, 3 on retirement, 31 on salary, 6 on time standards,12 on vehicles, 31 on work rules and 75 were classi-ied as “other”. That evening were the caucuses

starting at 6 and not ending until after 10pm. Long Day! Sleepfast,tomorrowwillbelongtoo.

Friday morning brought the elections. We knew we were in for a long day with every of ice con-tested except for secretary-treasurer. There were 7 candidates for the position of 4 -year committeeman, Susan Knapp’s vacated position. I will just tell you of the winners. President- Ronnie Stutts, Vice-president- Don Maston, Di-rector of Labor Relations – David Heather, Direc-tor of Steward Operations – Susan Knapp, 4-year Committeeman- after 4 ballots – Patrick Pitts, 2-year un inished term vacated by Don Maston- after 2 ballots – Dennis Conley. By the time it

was all said and done the convention was inally over at 9:20 pm.

Now it doesn’t seem like that much happened to take all that time, but you have to remember that anyone’s voice can be heard at convention and a lot of voices expressed their opinions and con-cerns about a lot of issues. That all takes time, and unless you hear different sides of the story you may not have thought about the consequenc-es of passing certain issues. It is your right as a member to be a part of this process.

Get involved,

Susan Tiffany

Chair, Executive Committee

“Your Union is only as strong as YOU!” “Get involved, get informed,

stay involved”

Nowapointofpersonalprivilege. Averygoodfriend and co‐worker of 30 years passed awayfar tooyoung fromcancer.Webothwerehiredas RCR’s and converted to RCA’s at the sametime.Shewashiredbeforemeandthereforehadseniority andwas regular somemonths beforeme. She encouragedme tobe involved so Ibe‐cameasteward.AndwhenIexpressedaninter‐est in running for the board she toldme I be‐longedthereandsupportedmydecision.Shere‐tired4yrsagoandhad somuchmore that shewanted to accomplish. Unfortunately, cancerhadotherideas. YourpostalfamilyappreciatesyourdedicationtoyourjobandIwillneverfor‐getwhatagreatfriendyouhavebeen….Susan

Kate Gane

Returning to Sender

August 29th 2018

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Mantomancoverage?

Zonecoverage?

Whichisbestforyou?

Wow! It has been a long time since I last wrote an article. It feels like I am out of shape; kind of like what the offseason does to players. I know we published a newsletter two months ago (which, by the way, is one of the many bene its of being a member of the WIRLCA: a FREE sub-scription to the state newsletter that is published bimonthly) but that issue basically summarized last season with our end of year reports and shone the spotlight on our star team players of the year. However, just because we were be-tween seasons doesn’t mean we were sitting around doing nothing! - As you can see by read-ing the other articles in this issue.

However, before I toss the coin to start my arti-cle, I interrupt this game topic for a moment of personal privilege to express my gratitude to the entire organization and especially the members that contribute to its success. As many of you know, I have been an RCA for a long time (actually a VERY LONG 20 years) and recently converted to regular. Whoohoo! I am now in the starting lineup-lol. For all you readers who are RCAs-don’t give up: it will be worth the wait and it most likely will not take as long for you to make regular. But... what I want to say is; thanks to being a union member, my conversion from non-career to career has been a fairly smooth transition. I strongly believe that all the meet-ings I have attended, the articles I have read (in not only the state newsletter but also the Nation-al magazine) and the knowledge from fellow car-riers that have shared their own experiences , have helped write the “playbook” for me to make wise choices that will impact my future way into retirement. I consider that a win in the game of life much like a touchdown is in the game of foot-

ball. There really is no dol-lar amount that can be placed on that bene it. Thank you.

Okay, back to the game! More speci ically, I would like to explain another bene it of being a member of the NRLCA. As the phrase goes, membership has its privileges. I am sure you are starting to ask - what does man to man or zone coverages have to do with being a union mem-ber? I am referring to access to the NRLCA in-surance marketplace for vehicle insurance. The NRLCA marketplace has partnered with us for over 65 years providing a wide range of insur-ance to meet the needs of rural carriers. When it comes to vehicle insurance; having the “correct coverage” should be your top priority. The NRLCA marketplace is able to do that.

Most importantly, they understand the Federal Tort Claims Act, kind of like zone coverage in football, and are able to offer rates that are lower than other insurance companies. The Federal Tort Claims act of 1961 is a federal statute that provides protection for liability incurred while in the course of your of icial duties as a federal em-ployee. In other words, as long as you are within the boundaries of work (i.e. work zone), you are covered for the liability portion of an accident that occurs while at work. It is important for your insurance carrier to understand how this relates to you as a rural carrier and using your vehicle to deliver mail on the route. This is a bene it of being a federal employee. However, this does not cover the damage your vehicle may incur---that is when you need man to man cover-age.

Continuedonnextpage

FRANCES SMIDT EXECUTIVE

Committeeperson, NGIC Representative

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Continuedfrompreviouspage

Here again, is where the NRLCA marketplace pro-vides the coverage you need. It is the best of both “worlds”. No game can be won with strictly man to man coverage, nor can it be won solely with zone coverage. It is about having lexibility to have the correct coverage for whatever play is called.

In addition, it is also very important to let your insurance company know that you use your vehi-cle for mail delivery. Once you do, many of them will then require you to have “commercial rate” or “business rate”, which is more expensive. So, I know now, you are thinking, well, I just won’t tell them. I strongly advise you NOT to do that. The reason why is because if, at some point you do have an accident, and they ind out that you have been using your vehicle for delivery, they can de-ny your claim solely by stating that you falsi ied information. Then, not only do you not have in-surance to cover the accident, but you have also

been wasting all that money on the premiums that won’t be refunded.

Today’s game highlights: Being a member of the NRLCA team gives you access to the best type of coverage when you need it. The WIRLCA team wins when you call 1-888-325-7727 for a quote. Your reward for calling is a $10.00 gift card, just mention code RRP. WIRLCA gets $ when you call for a quote and even more $ when you switch. All this $ helps keep dues low but bene its high. Re-member, they offer other types of insurance; not just vehicle insurance. Join our team and win!!! If you already are a member, you have won more than you realize. Never take it for granted; consid-er giving some back by participating. Thanks again to all who consistently give of their time and talents to make our union strong.

“Build it bigger; build it stronger.” GO TEAM!!!!

Frances P Smidt

Executive Committeeperson

AREYOUMISSINGOUT!?!?

If you don’t have the Rural Carrier Health Bene it Plan (RCBP), then you may be missing out! Deliv-ering mail, raising a family, and all day to day tasks and activities are reasons why health insur-ance is a must. Many people take the unnecessary risk of not having health insurance. While this may save you a few dollars now, it could end up costing you much more in the future if something unforeseen happens and you are stuck without coverage. All that you have worked so hard for, could be gone in an instant! If you are an NRLCA member, then you are al-

ready eligible and the Rural Carrier Bene it Plan (RCBP) is a great option. It may be the perfect it for you and or your loved ones. If not an NRLCA member, then please consider becoming one so you can take advantage of this great plan and its many bene its. Not only is it a competitively priced plan but it is also administered by Aetna, a well known company in the insurance industry. The RCBP is only available to active and retired rural letter carriers, also PTF’s and RCA’s who are members of the National Rural Letter Carrier’s Association. Many great bene its include 100% preventive care and maternity, $20 copays for doctor’s of ice visits, 100% coverage for emer-gency room treatment of an accidental injury, 24 hour nurse line, healthy maternity program, a multi-tiered prescription drug plan, and the “AetnaNavigator”, which is the plan’s secure member website, where you can view many of Continuedonnextpage

JASON JOHNSON EXECUTIVE Committeeperson

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Continuedfrompreviouspage your plan’s features and information about your claims. A few of the other highlights include a 100% cancer treatment bene it, a great health and wellness program that enables you to get money back and deposited into a health fund to pay for eligible medical expenses, in exchange for a Health Risk Assessment and/or a biometric screening. RCBP members also have available ac-cess to a wide variety of discount programs rang-ing from eye care to gym memberships. There is access to telehealth services allowing members to skip doctor’s visits and have virtual consultations with dieticians, doctors, social workers, or psy-chologists, and pay nothing for the consultations. Also, a new program that focuses on treating and managing diabetes will soon be available to all members. Your health is vital to be able to do your job and to live your life to its fullest at every stage, so please make sure that you have health insurance

coverage that will enable you to do just that! Be-ing a member of the NRLCA family has its many bene its, but the RCBP may be one of the most im-portant bene its of our great union family! If after checking out the RCBP and you decide it’s the right it for you, but you’re not a member, then please don’t delay and miss out on this great plan, become an NRLCA member today and start enjoy-ing the bene its of the RCBP!! Please keep your eyes open for open season infor-mation in the upcoming months, and if you need more info about this great plan, you can contact them directly at 1-800-638-8432, or go to www.rcbphealth.com. More details about all the great bene its I’ve ex-plained can be found on their website or by call-ing the phone number listed above. Remember everyone, stay safe and be well… Carry On!! Jason Johnson Executive Committeeperson

The Rural Carrier Benefit Plan is sponsored by the National Rural Letter Carriers' Association (NRLCA). For over 50 years, the Rural Carrier Benefit Plan has proudly served the specific needs of NRLCA members and their families

The Rural Carrier Benefit Plan

NRLCA Membership has it’s advantages

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CHAPLAIN’SCORNER‐When unexpected troubles of life come calling how do we

react to it? Does it make us cranky and out of sorts? Do we blame everyone else but our-selves? We should never excuse these bouts of bad behavior, for they can wither the hearts of those we love and spread misery all around us. We have not ful illed our duty to others until we have learned to be pleasant. Gentleness will cor-rect our unpleasantness with a kind and gra-cious heart and soul. “Be completely humble and gentle. Gentleness is the willingness to accept limitations and ailments without taking out our aggravation on others. It shows gratitude for the smallest service rendered and tolerance for those who do not serve us well. It puts us with a bothersome person, noisy boisterous person, the person who always has to be heard, the inter-ruptive person and even the not so kind person.

The list could go on. Gentleness can be silent, for silence is often the most eloquent response to unkind words. George MacDonald a Scottish author once said, “God would not hear from us a tone to jar the heart of another, a word to make it ache.” The old expression, “Silence is Golden”, most of the time it works better than saying something un-kind.

“Humility toward God will make us gentle

toward others.” So when the unexpected troubles of life come a knocking! React with kindness, humbleness, pleasantness and most of all gentleness! It will not only surprise you but others! May God Richly Bless all Rural Carriers & your Families and keep you safe on and off the rural routes!!

Carla Freymiller-Chaplain

Recently deceased carriers “Gone but not forgotten”

OUR SYMPATHIES TO THE FAMILIES AND CO-WORKERS

Our personal and work life can become difficult

at times. EAP-

Employee Assistance Program

“it’s more than you think”

JOSEPH MOREAU 6/1/2018 CECIL MILLER 6/20/2018 CORLISS LIGHTNER 6/24/2018

THOMAS JENCIUS 7/22/2018 GLENN JANTE 8/5/2018

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DONALD RIMGALE JR MONROE KENNETH MEEHAN BOYCEVILLE LIANE COYNE HAYWARD SELINA MAEDER HARTFORD THERESA SNEED WAUKESHA IDA SOTO WATERTOWN EMILIE KATCH GREEN BAY KARAMIA BATTON MENOMONEE FALLS SAM CHEN LA CROSSE BEVERLY HEINECK GRAFTON DANIEL LEE GERMANTOWN DEBORAH MASSALONGO HALES CORNERS OLIVIA MORRIS LA CROSSE BEVERLY VOELKEL OAK CREEK AMBER WOODWORTH BLACK RIVER FALLS RUSS FULWILER LUXEMBURG SCOTT MULHERN DE PERE JONATHAN REINHARDT LUXEMBURG AIMEE KAUFMANN BAYFIELD ELIZABETH TILINDIS BURLINGTON DAREN GARDEHL TOMAH ERIN ALSWAGER CHIPPEWA FALLS JAYDEN FOSBINDER MENOMONIE TAMMY FRANCK EAU CLAIRE LAURA PERRY CAMERON

TINA RUSSELL I GLEN FLORA RACHEL DUGAN GREEN BAY NATE SCHEUERS SEYMOUR ANDREW ERBS JANESVILLE BRIANNA HAMILTON JANESVILLE EMILY ANTONNEAU GERMANTOWN MORGAN CARDER PORT WASHINGTON JULIANNA POE WATERFORD SHANE HALLGREN BLACK RIVER FALLS DONNA RUBIN LODI JENNIFER HOLBROOK SHAWANO JENNIFER JANUSHESKE WAUPACA AMORETT KUMMER HUDSON SUMMER HOWARD LADYSMITH RYAN JOHNSON LADYSMITH LISA LUCKING HUDSON DAVID BROCKERT II MADISON ANHTRACY GOETSCH DE FOREST CONJETTA STEWART MADISON GLENN GOERKS AMERY CALLA KORPELA ASHLAND BONNIE OGREN CABLE JOSEPH BUSHKO RHINELANDER PETE MOERI PLOVER RICHARD EHLERT MAZOMANIE KYLE GREENSETH HUDSON

NEW MEMBERS 6/9/18-8/18/18

16 TO BE USED BY POTENTIAL NEW OR RETURNING MEMBERS

17 TO BE USED BY RECENT RETIREES ONLY

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Pictured above is WIRLCA Secretary/Treasurer, Ellen Pulver, after receiving a First-Place Membership award for the highest percentage of Retiree members WIRLCA staff photo

Pictured below is WIRLCA Junior Auxiliary Sponsor, Holli Johnson, after receiving her National Auxiliary Member of the Year award Photo courtesy of Wojo

Pictured above is WIRLCA Member, Charles F. “Chuck” Groth, after receiving his Nation-al Outstanding Member of the Year award Photo courtesy of Wojo

Photo courtesy of MyConventionsPhoto.com

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The National Convention…I am both mentally and physically exhilarated and exhausted. At first, Monday was frustrating getting to know where Keith and I needed to be, how to get there without putting on extra walking, and getting there on time. Everyone we asked had a different answer, but we figured it out, even-tually. Once we figured out the short cuts to the meeting rooms, and where they were all located things went much smoother. I was impressed to see that all fifty states, plus Puerto Rico, was represented by at least one delegate. It was very awe inspiring seeing all the different flags, unique banners, and how each state represents the Rural Carrier Union. Monday, while Keith was in His first meeting of the week, I went exploring and found those earlier men-tioned short cuts, stood in the wrong registration line, (alternate) for fifteen minutes, (Thanks Ellen), walked right in to the Delegate line, got registered then did a little shopping and browsing the booths before it was time for the State of the Union. It is not only Wisconsin that has the over whelming amount of parcels, it is happening across the country. First class volume is continuing to decline, as we all know. It seems that when the economy tanked, USPS headquarters assumed it would not make a comeback…now it is com-ing back and the USPS is having problems keeping up to the unexpected growth, and this causes many is-sues, including complicated work place environments, space constraints, and most importantly communi-cation issues. These are all important issues that are being addressed in contract negotiations, which has not come to an impasse yet, and with the knowledge and experience of the NRLCA board hopefully they will continue successful negotiations with the USPS for a great contract. The rest of the afternoon was com-prised of hearing from Dr. Ken Mericle about the RRECS (new Rural Route Evaluated Compensation Sys-tem). Being from a Study office I can understand the amount of work needed from all other offices before the new system can go into effect. Like all other carriers, I’m sure, are disappointed that we will still have mail counts, even if they are “mini” counts. However I look forward to the implementation of RRECS when it does happen, as in the end I feel it should be a more competent and fair way to evaluate a route. Watch the National magazine for future updates. Keith and I were then off to the First timers’ Orientation lead by for-mer NRLCA President Gus Baffa. They served great brownies and huge cookies while He explained where we needed to be and when, and welcomed us to National. Then after a quick bite to eat, We were off to the Juniors talent show, and the Auxiliary Auction to benefit the Folds of Honor, this year’s Auxiliary project. Some of the Juniors are very good performers at such a young age, it was cute. Yes I did get wrapped up in the Auction, but only spent $70, I was always quick enough to stop when it got higher than a 100 luckily. All this, and it is only the first day! Tuesday started off with a very heartfelt Memorial service. The joint session’s presenting of our Flag, sing-ing of the Anthem, the Parade of each States flag, and other Patriotic accolades is an awesome sight to see. Then USPS Postmaster General, Megan Brennan spoke. She repeated the need for better down flow of com-munication, was encouraging that contract talks are still happening, She was strongly against privatiza-tion, and informative that the Trump Task force consulted with Her and others, and are awaiting time to read their report. She also talked about the new vehicles that are being tested for use in the postal system, with no commitment on who would get new ones when they did come, or any certain time line for getting them. Megan expressed the need for the Postal Service to adapt to a changing market.

“What I did on my Summer vacation”- Letters from First-Time National Delegates

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Next we watched a video about Julie Houston’s Auxiliary project this year “Folds of Honor” presented by founder Major Dan Rooney. “Folds of Honor scholarship recipient Tiffany Eckert, wife of fallen soldier Andy Eckert, told her emotional, from the heart story, of how her son and her became the recipient of this scholarship and how it pulled her through such a devastating time. Throughout the week of the convention a donation of over $17000 was collected for Folds of Honor. Congresswoman Marcia Fudge (D-OH) spoke that she opposes privatization, and that she came from a postal family and will fight for us as long as she can. There also was the presentation of the Gavel to the President with an introduction from the current National Officers. Many membership Awards, and other were given out to the States. Many Officer Reports were read and gone over. That evening I attended the Academy Trainers meeting. Every State seems to be hav-ing the same basic issues, management isn’t giving new hires a chance to learn the job, as we are so short they are not given the opportunity to learn one route before getting thrown on others, and management tends to worry more about speed than the carrier. Communication from EAS and above seems to be a problem also. They are working on updating the training manual and video with the new information and changes. They wrote down many ideas and suggestions from the many trainers there so hopefully some of them will get implemented. Then I was off to ABC’s of Benefits/Retirement/Pay Stubs. This was very helpful on how to navigate the Lite Blue site and where to look for certain things, how Social Security is figured, e-retire, TSP, LWOP, OWCP, and much, much more. Day two over, off to bed with so much information swimming in my head. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday was very close to what happen on the State level only on a much grander scale. Constitution changes, and Resolution changes from all over the country are given to the committee, and since all Rural Carriers are doing the same job, some of the proposed changes are the same and combined together. So all of us delegates go through each one presented, delegates can step up to a microphone and talk for or against the proposed, or ask questions. By the end of Convention we have gone over all the proposed changes and either agreed to send them forward to the National board to consider when doing contract nego-tiations, or we have voted them down and the original writers or even a different state can present them next year. One big discussion to note that it was decided to continue to have an Annual National Convention instead of the proposed bi-annual. I feel this was a good decision due to the amount of information gone over on an annual basis is so much, if we waited two years it would be twice as much and take twice as long. No thanks. Even with all the information swimming through my head and all the paperwork handed out, I feel that I learned much information about my job, and the bargaining process that got carriers to the point that we are at. That information can then be passed along to other carriers that have no idea about the process it takes, to help them understand why some things happen the way they do in our positions. I feel every year I attend the National Convention that it would definitely be a learning experience that will never be forgotten. Thank You to all who voted for me to be a delegate in 2018, and I ask that you vote for me to be a delegate in 2019 again. It is encouraging to me to see how 52 states can come together and unite to make a better environment for all rural carriers. We may not always totally agree, but in the end Our National Board is always looking out for Us, the Rural Carrier. Thank you for the great opportunity, Nancy Neitzel Reamer 2018 Delegate, Local Steward Beaver Dam WI, Rural Academy Trainer Lakeland

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"I had the privilege of attending my first National Convention. I have been to a handful of State Conventions, and was impressed with the or-ganization of the event and the passion of the delegates. The National Convention was basically the same, but at a more grand scale. I have a great deal of respect to those on the National Board in organizing such an event. The facilities were very impressive and I was fortunately to have a room within walking distance, out of elements. It was a pleasure to meet fellow carriers from other states, telling their own stories of their experiences. Maybe I would be able to attend another convention and have the same experience." Russell Martin President Dane County

Hi everyone! Thank you for voting me as a delegate at this years national convention in Grand Rapids MI. The convention was very interesting and I learned a lot. Here are a few high points. The convention starts with the advancement of colors and the parade of states. Veterans are 25 percent of the postal work force. This was Jeanette Dwyer last year as president. She is the only female president to serve in Any postal union. She will correct you saying: a QUALIFIED FEMALE PRESIDENT. She has done many things for the union and will be missed. Ronnie Stutts was her right hand and will make a good president heading forward. Ronnie stated the union is in the middle of a perfect storm. With the union in contract negotiations and the new RRECS system trying to be implemented and then Pres. Trump setting up a taskforce to look into reforming the post office. The new national board will be very busy and have many challenges moving forward in doing what is best for the union. Knowledge is Power Everyone needs to start going to their county meetings. And then state and national convention are a bonus. You will learn something new everytime you attend. I know I have and more. Take time to be an investment in your future in the postal service. First-time at national convention-Sue Verhagen

“What I did on my Summer vacation”- Letters from First-Time National Delegates, cont.

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Recent Retirees

So you’re thinking about retiring? First and foremost – CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

Please take note: There can sometimes be a difference between when you actually stop reporting to work and actually “retire” on paper. Please wait until you have received

your final “Form 50” with your retirement date.

Next (and this is important): To sign up for dues withholding from your annuity, you must FIRST provide us with your newly assigned “CSA” number. The Office of Per-sonnel Management (OPM) assigns this number during their processing of your re-

tirement. We cannot process your application for dues withholding without it. IF you should choose to pay “Cash” dues: Regardless of when you start paying, it is an

annual payment of $105.00, payable by July 1st each year.

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MARK ROEDER RIPON JEFFREY SCHNEIDER MARKESAN JULIE ANN MARTINSON SAUK CITY THERESE SCHROEDER KAUKAUNA CINDY GURNEY MADISON MARY MURRAY JANESVILLE DALE PUSEL MONROE MARLENE BANKER LAKE MILLS GAYLE FREIDEL SUN PRAIRIE

LISA HAIRE WEYAUWEGA RICHARD KOPP EVANSVILLE MARILYN LA PORTE SPOONER PENNILYN VANDENBERG BELOIT BARBARA WOLFGRAM NEENAH GLORIA TOMCZYK EAGLE RIVER MICHAEL SETTERMAN PARK FALLS DANNY SIEG AUGUSTA

ALL LISTED BELOW HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AND SUBMITTED FOR 50 YEAR PLUS

MEMBERSHIP IN 2018 Do you know someone that has been a member of the NRLCA for 50 plus years?

Submit their name to; WIRLCA Secretary/Treasurer

Roger Davis Francis Furlano

Lowell Holup Lowell Kamke

Donald Kiehnau

Logan Maybee Gile McWain

Richard P iefer James Monogue Alan Strutzman

Donald Kiehnau Lamont Lukens

Ted Yaroch Earl Rittman

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WisconsinRuralLetterCarriersAuxiliaryandAssociation:Thank you very much for choosing me as a recipient of your generous scholar-ship! My Mom was at the State Conven-tion a few weeks back, so she told me I had been selected. I am so grateful for the support of the Auxiliary as well as the members of the Wisconsin Rural Letter Carriers Association. My Mom has been delivering mail since before I was born and has been a member of the union since her 1st day at work. I will be majoring in Finance at Ripon College this fall. Thank you again! Sincerely, J Doyle

WIRLCAJUNIORSOFFICERS2018‐2019PresidentJoe Schlies E656 Cty Rd J Denmark, WI 54208 920-863-8485 nschlies@netnet.net VicePresidentAlexandria Stone 10881 Circle Road Lancaster, WI 53813 608-732-4214 stonealex101@aol.com Secretary Jordan Jacobus 255586 Hwy 61 Boscobel, WI 53805 608-375-5755 Jordanmjacobus@icloud.com TreasurerAutumn Butenhoff 415 E. Terhune St. Viroqua, WI 54665 608-632-9901 autumn.m.Butenhoff@gmail.com ChaplainKyler Johnson 630 Keep St. Darlington, WI 53530 608-482-1180 KylerStevenJ1211@gmail.com

President Kathy Lueck 1417 Oak Street Watertown, WI 53098-1136 920-262-1980 bkmlu@charter.net Vice‐President Keith Reamer 1143 Schenck Rd. Marshall, WI 53559 920-296-3212 knrtransporting@yahoo.com

Secretary/Treasurer Tana Zeich 408 N Pine Street Orfordville, WI 53576 608-879-2791 nighthawkacres@yahoo.com JuniorSponsor Holli Johnson 630 Keep St. Darlington, WI 53530 608-482-1180

WIRLCAAUXILIARYOFFICERS2018‐2019

NationalJuniorsPosterandEssaywinnersfromWisconsin:Ages6‐7Poster:"A Playground" 1st place- Victoria Scherer age 7, Anchorage, Alaska; Grandparent James Polk, Jefferson Co. 2nd place- Lily Rocole, age 6, Colgate, WI; Grandparent Daniel Strobel, Dodge Co. Ages8‐9Poster:"A Rose Garden" 2nd place- Ayden Fleisner, age 8, Plymouth, WI; Grandparent Larry Sonnenberg, Manitowoc Co. 3rd place- Anyka Johnson, age 8 Darlington, WI; Parent Jason Johnson, Grant Co. Ages10‐11Poster"Independence Day Parade" 1st place- Taylor Gorn, age 11, Nome, Alaska; Grandparent James Polk, Jefferson Co. These categories had 35-45 entries. Congratulations Jun-iors!! Anyone who is interested in donating a basket for Spring Conference Junior Scholarship Raf le, please con-tact me: Kathy Lueck bkmlu@charter.net; or text (920) 262-1980

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2018 WIRLCA FALL REGION MEETINGS

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LAKELANDDISTRICTREPRESENTATIVE‐JULIADOGGETT

Greetings from Lakeland District! It is hard to believe we are almost out of summer heading in to fall and winter. Lakeland District holds an undesirable distinction as being one of the top districts for accidents. And since we are heading in to winter, the weather opens up a whole new level to potential accidents. Article 14 of the National Agreement is titled SAFETY AND HEALTH. The irst two sections out-line a cooperative effort between the employer and the Union to ensure safe working conditions, and observance of safe rules and safe procedures by employees. It also encumbers management with the responsibility of correcting unsafe working conditions. PS Form 1767 is available to all employees to utilize to inform management of an unsafe condition, but we are also responsible to work safely during our work day. Customers are just like family to so many carri-ers; we watch out for them in so many ways. We make sure they are picking up their mail, help them with groceries and getting out of snow drifts. Calling the ire department when we see smoke, helping to ind their pet, or just saying hello to boost their day. Putting them and ourselves in danger just to shave off the few seconds it takes to shut off the vehicle, curb the wheels and set the parking brake contradicts all that. A roll away/run away can happen in a split second; so, make sure your vehicle is securely grounded. We’ve all seen the Power Points and the photo slides of LLVs and POVs after accidents, but what of the lives that have been changed by the event? The carrier who is off work due to being injured from being run down by their own vehicle or try-ing to wade through the paperwork that is re-quired by OWCP? Or the customer whose child was run over by an LLV or POV left running as a carrier jogged a parcel up to the door? Or the property damage that requires repair. There are

consequences to these actions that need to be avoided in every way possible. Sometimes things happen that we cannot control, but many times, we can. Always shut off the engine when you disem-

bark. Always remove the key. Always set the parking brake. Make sure you are writing up a repair tag on your vehicle when things aren’t working right.

Don’t back up after leaving a mail box be-cause you missed a piece of mail; go around the block or get out and walk it back; after irst shutting of the engine, removing the key

and setting the parking brake. There are points on our route where we do have to back up, it is unreasonable to think we don’t, but make sure the recur ring ones are noted on your PS4003. Even during these recurring backing events, always know what’s behind you, in front and on either side of you. It only takes one moment for your or someone else’s life to change.

Make sure you are getting home every day, safely and without incident. Your family, your custom-ers, your employer needs you. RDWL&Sunday/HolidayparceldeliveryThe time is coming around again soon for Regu-lar carriers to opt to sign up for the relief day work list and leave replacement carriers as-signed to of ices involved with Sunday/Holiday Amazon parcel delivery, to sign the volunteer or non-volunteer work lists. (ARC employees are hired speci ically for this work). For the two-week period beginning September 22nd and end-ing October 5th, these lists will be open for sign-ing. All newly created lists will supersede the previ-ously posted lists, and will become effective Sat-urday October 13th. Continuedonnextpage

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ContinuedfrompreviouspageQandA

If I am a regular carrier assigned to anHroute,canIsignthereliefdayworklist?

YES, all regular carriers are entitled to sign the list regardless of route classi ication. They will be affected if the route becomes a J or K classi ication during the period the RDWL is in use. The carrier would then be selected to work their relief day during the normal rotation.

IstheRDWLof ice‐wide,includingstationsandbranches?

NO, each list is speci ic to each ‘brick and mor-tar’ building. Stations, branches, APOs and RMPOs will each have and use their own list.

WheredoI indinformationabouttheRDWL?

ARTICLE 8.5 of the National Agreement out-lines the RDWL, indicating when it is es-tablished and how it is utilized.

“When a regular carrier is needed to work their relief day, carriers are selected from the list, in order of seniority on a rotating basis. If the need still exists, management may accept volunteers not on the list prior to requiring carriers not on the list to work; this requirement is by juniority. On the day the regular carrier works their re-lief day, the leave replacement assigned to that carriers’ route may be required to work any other route in thatdelivery unit.” (Italicsforemphasis)

WheredoI indinformationabouttheSun‐day/Holidayvolunteerlist?

An MOU was signed by the USPS and the NRLCA in May of 2016 which outlines the volunteer/non-volunteer lists, and how they are utilized.

“WhenitisnecessarytoscheduleruralcarrierleavereplacementsforSunday/Holidayparceldelivery,managementwill irstutilizeARCsas‐signedtothehub/spokelocations.Iftheneedstillexists,leavereplacementcarriersfromthevolunteerlistonarotatingbasis;ifmorecarri‐ersareneedednon‐volunteerswillbeselected,alsoonarotatingbasis.Thisrotationitbylastname,alphabeticallysorted.

ThenextopportunitytosignupforreliefdayorSunday/Holidayparceldeliverywillbethreeweekspriortothebeginningofthe irstfullpayperiodinMay.“

NewRegularRoutes;After the last Rural mail count, Lakeland District created many new auxiliary as well as new regu-lar routes. Once established, certain provisions apply. Newly created auxiliary route assignments are

offered to quali ied substitutes, rural carrier associates and rural carrier relief employees in the order of longest period of continuous period of service in that of ice, without regard to classi ication. (See article 30.2.G.2 of the Na-tional Agreement). Being assigned to an auxil-iary route has some perks; after being as-signed to an auxiliary route in excess of 90 days, on the 91st day, the RCA is credited with annual and sick leave for the irst 90 days (and thereafter), based on the number of hours worked when serving the auxiliary route. (Article 10.5.B). Earning 1 hour of each type of leave for every 20 hours worked, with a maxi-mum earning of 4 hours each per pay period.

Many of the newly created auxiliary routes ex-ceeded 42 standard hours, therefore these routes must be converted to regular status within 30 days of reaching that bench-mark. After conversion to regular status, these routes are then posted for bid and awarded; per article 12.3.A, B & C of the National Agree-ment.

Article 12.3.D provides the course when no carrier successfully bids on a route in the of-ice in which the vacancy exists, or none who

bid are eligible. Within 10 days the route is posted district-wide for a period of 15 days. All regular carriers, PTFs, substitutes and RCAs throughout the district, with service in excess of 1 year are eligible to bid on the va-cancy.

‘Union’s have been the only powerful and effective voice working people have ever had in the history of this Country’- Bruce Springsteen ‘In Union there is Strength’ - Aesop

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EmployeeRights:language comes directly from NLRB.gov, Home>Rights We Protect>What’s the law?>Employers>>Interfering with employee rights -Section 7 & 8(a)(1). “Employeeshavetherighttounionize,tojointo‐gether to advance their interests as employees,andtorefrainfromsuchactivity.Itisunlawfulforanemployer to interferewith,restrain,orcoerceemployeesintheexerciseoftheirrights.Forexam‐ple,employersmaynotrespondtoaunionorganiz‐ingdrivebythreatening,interrogating,orspyingon

Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act (the Act) guarantees employees “the right to self-organization, to form, join, or assist labor organi-zations, to bargain collectively through repre-sentatives of their own choosing, and to engage in other concerted activities for the purpose of collective bargaining or other mutual aid or pro-tection,” as well as the right “to refrain from any or all such activities.”

Section 8(a)(1) of the Act makes it an unfair la-bor practice

ees in the exercise of the rights guaranteed in Section 7” of the Act. For ex-ample, you may not:

Threaten employees with adverse consequenc-es, such as closing the workplace, loss of bene-its, or more onerous working conditions, if they

support a union, engage in union activity, or se-lect a union to represent them.

engage in protected, concerted activity.

(Activity is “concerted” if it is engaged in with or on the authority of other employees, not solely by and on behalf of the employee him-self. It includes circumstances where a single employee seeks to initiate, induce, or prepare for group action, as well as where an employee brings a group complaint to the attention of management.

as employees. An employee engaged in otherwise protected, con-

certed activity may lose the Act’s protection

Imply a promise of bene its by soliciting griev-ances from employees during a union organiz-ing campaign. (However, if you regularly solic-ited employee grievances before the campaign began, you may continue that

Confer bene its on employees during a union

organizing campaign to induce employees to vote against the union.

Withhold changes in wages or bene its during a union organizing campaign that would have been made had the union not been on the scene, unless you make clear to employees that the change will occur whether or not

poning the change is to avoid any appearance of trying

Coercively question employees about their

own or coworkers’ union activities or sympa-thies. (Whether

on the relevant cir-cumstances, including who asks the

whether the questioned employee is an open and active

a context of other unfair labor practices.)

working time, if you permit them

to talk about other Poll your employees to determine the extent

of their support for a union, unless you com-ply with certain safeguards. You must not have engaged in unfair labor practices or otherwise created a coercive atmosphere. In addition, you must (1) communicate to employees that the purpose of the poll is to determine whether the

your purpose); (2) give employees assurances against reprisal; and (3) conduct the poll by secret ballot.

NorthlandDistrictRepresentative–James“Jim”Riess

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Spy on employees’ union activities. (“Spying” means doing something out of the ordinary to observe the activity. Seeing open union activity in workplace areas

Create the impression that you are spying on

employ Photograph or videotape employees engaged

in peace Solicit individual employees to appear in a

campaign video. Promulgate, maintain, or enforce work rules

that reasonably tend to inhibit employees from exercising their

and other union insignia unless special circumstances warrant.

Convey the message that selecting a union would be futile.

Discipline or discharge a union-represented employee for refusing to submit, without a representative, to an investigatory interview the employee reasonably

Interview employees to prepare your defense

in an unfair labor practice case, unless you provide certain

occur

in a context free from employer hostility to un-ion organization and must not itself be coer-cive. And questioning must not go beyond what is needful to achieve

Initiate, solicit employees to sign, or lend

more than minimal support to or approval of a decerti ication or

Discharge, constructively discharge, suspend, layoff, fail to recall from layoff, demote, disci-pline, or take any other adverse action against employees because of

Comment:Askyourself,hastheemployerpost‐ed this information? How many violations ofour employee rights have occurred? Be unionstrong,committobeingactiveandengaged inyourjobandyourfuture! Jim Riess, Northland District Representative 897 Roosevelt Ave Pine River MN 56474-5162 Phone 218-587-2206 Email Jim.Riess@nrlca.org Fax 1-855-677-0009 Do your Job (Art 30/PO 603); Ask Management (Discuss); File the Grievance (Article 15.3); Stew-ard (All Of ices/Article 17)

NorthlandDistrictRepresentative–James“Jim”Riess

ARE YOU CONSIDERING FILING A GRIEVANCE? Let’s review the iling of a Grievance What is a grievance?

A grievance is de ined as a dispute, difference, disagreement, or complaint between you and management related to wages, hours, and conditions of employment.

GRIEVANCES ARE EITHER CONTRACTUAL OR DISCIPLINARY A grievance exists if there has been a violation of any of the following ive areas of worker's rights:

1. Violation of the contract, including handbooks, manuals, etc. 2. Violation of past practice. 3. Violation of fair treatment. 4. Violation of applicable Federal, State, or Local Law 5. Violation of management's rule or responsibilities.

DISCUSS, ASK FOR A REMEDY, THEN GRIEVE

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CLASSIFIEDS

Do you have a route vehicle to sell? Do you want to make a mutual transfer?

THEN ADVERTISE IT HERE! SEND REQUESTS TO editor@wirlca.org

by the deadline listed on the back page.

LiteBlue www.liteblue.usps.gov USPS home www.usps.com Office of Personnel Management www.opm.gov Thrift Savings Plan www.tsp.gov USPS Office of Inspector General www.oig.gov eOPF-Find your electronic personnel folder www.eopf.usps.gov/eOPF/jsp/essLogin.jsp Department of Labor www.dol.gov Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov House of Representatives www.house.gov United States Senate www.senate.gov

Congressional Record Resource www.congress.gov Postal Regulatory Commission www.prc.gov Equal Employment Opportunity Commission www.eeoc.gov Government Accountability Office www.gao.gov National General Insurance www.nationalgeneral.com Keeping Posted-website for retirees www.keepingposted.org Employee Assistance Program (EAP) www.eap4you.com Rural Carrier Health Benefit Plan www.rcbphealth.com

USEFUL WEBSITES

For Sale-2010 Chev Tahoe, 4WD, a/c, heated seats, p/w, adj. gas and brake pedals, loaded, also RH brake and gas pedals, 152,533 miles (only 1,500 postal mi.) Asking $12,500. Call 715-450-3383

Transfer-Transfer from Hayward, WI to Central WI (Wausau/Stevens Point or surround-ing areas). Phone or text 715-613-1562 for more info.

31

DistrictRepresentatives(Stewards)&AssignmentsWISCONSINAREA

FullTimeLakelandDistrictRepresentativeJuliaDoggett

PO Box 503 West Chicago, IL 60186-0503 Phone: 217-622-3820

Email: Julia.Doggett@nrlca.org Assigned Zip Code Areas: All Lakeland District

FullTimeNorthlandDistrictRepresentativeJimRiess

897 Roosevelt Ave. Pine River, MN 56474-5162 Phone: 218-587-2206

Email: Jim.Riess@nrlca.org Assigned Zip Code Areas: All Northland District

FullTimeAssistantDistrictRepresentatives(Lakeland)LouanFriend

PO Box 33 Endeavor, WI 53930-0033 Phone: 608-745-2481

Email: Louan.Friend@nrlca.org Assigned Zip Code Areas: 535, 537, 538, 539

FullTimeAssistantDistrictRepresentatives(Northland)

PeterBuckinghamPO Box 556 Waconia, MN 55387-9615

Phone: 952-856-4151 Email: Peter.Buckingham@nrlca.org

Assigned Zip Code Area: All Northland District

GregDietzlerPO Box 101 Marsh ield, WI 54449-0101

Phone: 715-533-0132 Email: Gregory.Dietzler@nrlca.org

Assigned Zip Code Areas-541, 542, 544, 545 & 549

Valerie“Val”FredricksonBox 241244 MN

Phone: 507-676-3805 Email: Valerie.Fredrickson@nrlca.org

Assigned Zip Code Area: All Northland District

PartTimeAssistantDistrictRepresentatives(Lakeland)AmyDorner

PO Box 2 Union Grove, WI 53182-0002 Phone: 262-853-1118

Email: Amy.Dorner@nrlca.org Assigned Zip Code Area-530, 542, 543

PartTimeAssistantDistrictRepresentatives(Northland)GaryPingel

PO Box 664 Tomah, WI. 54660-0664 Phone: 608-387-5045

Email: Gary.Pingel@nrlca.org Assigned Zip Code Areas-546 & 547

AreaSteward‐LakelandKimMacDonald

Phone: 262-227-5037 Of ices assigned: Hartford-53027, Horicon-53032,

Pewaukee-53072, Waupun-53963

GregDietzlerFT‐ADRPO Box 101 Marsh ield, WI 54449-0101

Phone: 715-533-0132 Email: Gregory.Dietzler@nrlca.org

Contact Northland District Representative for area assignment

AreaSteward‐LakelandJenniferGregesich

Phone: 920-836-3637 Of ices assigned: Luxemburg-54217, Kewaunee-54216,

Manitowoc-54220, Mishicot-54228, New Franken-54229, Sturgeon Bay-54235

AreaSteward‐WisconsinBillieJoBriese

2807 275th Street Saint Croix Falls WI 54024-3209 Phone:715-760-0588

mbbriese@grantsburgtelcom.net assigned 540 and 548 of ices

AreaSteward‐LakelandBrianUlrich

815-742-7091 WI of ice assigned:

Beloit WI-53511

AreaSteward‐NWWisconsin MARTIROBERTS

6583 Saint Louis Road Esko MN 55733-9301 Phone: 218-590-6437

Email: martimnrlca@aol.com

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Ellen Pulver-Sec/Treasurer PO Box 39 Wyocena, WI 53969

Sept 22-oct 4-RDWL sign up period Sept 25-Oct 4-Region meetings (check pages 24-25 for dates, locations, etc.) Oct 8—HOLIDAY Columbus Day Oct 13-New Guarantee Period begins Nov 4-Daylight Savings Ends (“fall back”) Nov 11-Veterans Day Nov 12-HOLIDAY Veterans Day observed Nov 12-Dec 10-FEHB open season

Upcoming Board Meetings Jan 12th, 2019– Cranberry Country Lodge in Tomah ***Please check website for most up to date information as dates /times and/or locations may be changed as needed.

Deadlinefornextissue:Oct21,2018 If you have a vehicle for sale, transfer request or a story you would like to share, please do so and we will gladly publish them, space permitting. Send to editor@wirlca.org

CHANGEOFADDRESSThe WIRLCA uses the same address that you have on file with the USPS. There-fore, if you need to change your address, you have three options; inadditiontoFIRSTcontactingtheWIRLCAAssistantSecretary/Treasurer: 1. Use PS Form 1216, Employee’s Current Mailing Address. Send it to: HRSSC,

Benefits/Compensation, PO Box 970400, Greensboro, NC 27497-0400. 2. Call the HRSSC at 877-477-3273, option 5. Validate your identity with your

Employee ID number or USPS Pin, then option 9 to speak to a service repre-sentative who will assist you.

3. For carriers with PC access: Log on to Lite Blue using your EID and USPS Password Click on the Change of Address/Phone/Emergency Contact link under Employee Resources. Your current information will be displayed. To update your information, click the edit button, and you’re on your way. Fol-low the prompts to review, confirm and save your changes.

COMING EVENTS

Did you know that, for a Regular Carrier or PTF it costs less than $2 per day to be a NRLCA member? For RCA’s it’s $8.86

per pay period AND THAT’S ONLY IF YOU work!