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Resolution Log (click here) DOMINICK L SPADARO NATIONAL VICE-PRESIDENT AREA SEVEN NC/SC Greeting fellow NAPUS members. As I return from attending the National Convention in Anchorage Alaska I will update you on current events. First I must share what a fantastic job our Alaskan postmasters did in hosting this event. You had to be there to appreciate the excellent hospitality and training we enjoyed. As your National Vice-President, I arrived on Thursday September 10, at 2:30 AM and began attending Executive Board meetings Friday morning through Saturday. During the Board meetings we conducted much business for your organization. Discussions including the recent suspension of Convention Leave and the coarse of action taken jointly by NAPUS and the League. We approved an additional two-year contract for our top rated Legislative Director Bob Levi. In addition, we approved the annual working budget for 2010 as well as awarded a new contract for a Membership Director. The Honorable Charlie Moser’s contract expires at the end of this month and he and his lovely wife Carol intend to begin a new chapter in their lives. Charlie will be missed but he is doing a great job transitioning our new director and membership will continue to play a vital role for our organization. We also extended the one-year free membership through 2010. And heard a presentation on the enhanced PMR benefit package sponsored by NAPUS. President Dale appointed two new committees during our meetings. One to study our Election Process, and another to review Convention Reform. I am honored to share that I was appointed as chairman of the Convention Reform committee. Since all chapters receive a copy of this article, I am formally soliciting YOUR input as to what you LIKE, Don’t Like or would LIKE to SEE in upcoming National Conventions. This is your opportunity to share ideas and thoughts on how to make the event a memorable experience. On Sunday we began our Business and Training Sessions, which were all well attended. What a strong message we sent to Postal Headquarters having more than 1300 members in attendance in Alaska, AT THEIR OWN EXPENCE AND LEAVE. Who can dare say that postmasters are not the most dedicated among Postal Employees, or challenge that we only attend conventions because of Convention Leave! We are a force that must be recognized and admired for our commitment to making the Postal Service successful. And we put up our own time and money to prove our commitment. I am certain none of our “official” speakers spent their personal money or leave to join us? During this convention, we elected a new National President, the Honorable Bob Rapoza. Bob will assume his duties beginning January 1 2010. North Carolina was a strong supporter of Bob as was evident when our very own Linda Carter made an announcement from the podium while President Drew provided the introduction for the customary march. However I would be remiss if I didn’t pay tribute to the Honorable Hugh Hager. Hugh ran an excellent and most professional campaign as was evident by the final vote. We should all be very proud of these two men and I know our organization is and will continue be stronger because of each of these fine men. Until next time, I pledge my support and ask that each of you do the same when a neighboring postmaster needs help. dominick All offices for PM Association click here DRAFT #3 8/14/09 Notice to be sent to postmasters who will not receive a notice of proposed reduction in grade This is to inform you that effective October 10, 2009, your status under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) will be changed from exempt to non-exempt and you will be subject to the pay and work rules applicable to nonexempt full-time postmasters. As a non-exempt employee, you will be paid on an hourly basis, instead of on a salary basis. Unless other Postal Service pay rules provide a higher rate of premium pay, you will receive one and one–half times your regular rate for all hours of actual work in excess of 40 hours in any FLSA work week. For more information, please consult section 432.34 and Part 444 of the Employee and Labor Relations Manual. This change is the result of a reduction in the work hours expended by the employees who are subject to your supervision in the (OFFICE NAME) Post Office. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and its implementing regulations provide that those who supervise the equivalent of at least two full-time employees on a weekly basis are “executives” under the FLSA and are therefore “exempt” from the FLSA’s overtime requirements. A recent audit disclosed that for Fiscal Year 2008, the Postmaster of (City, State) did not supervise the equivalent of two full-time employees to the extent required to satisfy the definition of an FLSA-exempt “executive.” As a result, the position of Postmaster, (City, State) no longer qualifies for FLSA-exempt status. If you have any questions about this change, please contact (District point of contact). DRAFT #2 - issued by employee’s immediate supervisor (MPOO) Postmaster downgrade EAS16 to EAS-15 – change level shown in letter for other downgrades 8/14/09 VIA PRIORITY MAIL DELIVERY CONFIRMATION # ______________________ Postmaster Name Home Address Re: Notice of Proposed Reduction in Grade Dear (Employee’s name): This is advance written notice that it is proposed to reduce you in grade from EAS-16 to EAS-15, effective no earlier than 30 calendar days from the date of your receipt of this letter. As explained below, the reason for this reduction in grade is due to no fault of your own, but instead, is the result of a reduction in the work hours expended by the employees who are subject to your supervision in the (Office Name) Post Office. This action is based upon the following: Charge 1. Change in Status Under the Fair Labor Standards Act You presently hold the position of Postmaster, EAS-16. As stated in the Postal Service’s standard description for this position, this “position will be used for EAS-15 Postmasters in an exempt status only.” As explained below, the position of the Postmaster, (City, State) is no longer “exempt.” Therefore, it is necessary to reduce you in grade to EAS-15. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and its implementing regulations provide that those who supervise the equivalent of at least two full-time employees on a weekly basis are “executives” under the FLSA and are therefore “exempt” from the FLSA’s overtime requirements. In order for a postmaster to supervise the equivalent of two full-time employees, the work hours expended by a postmaster’s subordinate employees must amount to at least 80 in a work week. A recent audit disclosed that for Fiscal Year 2008, the Postmaster of (City, State) did not supervise the equivalent of two full-time employees to the extent required to satisfy the definition of an FLSA-exempt “executive.” According to this audit, during Fiscal Year 2008, the Postmaster of (City, State) did not supervise the equivalent of two full-time employees for at least 42 weeks. As a result, the position of Postmaster, (City, State) no longer qualifies for FLSA-exempt status. Pursuant to section 415.52 of the Employee and Labor Relations Manual, while it is proposed that your reduction in grade will be effective no earlier than 30 calendar days of your receipt of this notice, you will be granted saved salary if your present salary exceeds the maximum salary for an EAS-15 position. If your present salary is within the salary range for an EAS-15 position, your salary will be continued and determined in the future in accordance with the standard Postal Service rules applicable to EAS-15 positions. The materials relied upon in deciding to propose this reduction in grade are enclosed with this notice. [EAS-16 PM position description and audit results will be provided with each letter] You and/or your representative may respond to this proposal within 10 calendar days from your receipt of this letter, either in person or in writing, or both, to (Deciding Official – typically District Manager). You should contact (deciding official’s secretary) at (Phone #) to schedule an appointment. You and your representative may also furnish affidavits or other written materials to (Deciding Official) within 10 calendar days from your receipt of this letter. You and/or your representative, if he or she is a Postal Service employee, will be afforded a reasonable amount of official time for the above purpose, if you and/or representative are in a duty status. You will receive a written decision from (Deciding Official) after the expiration of the 10-calendar-day period for reply. All the facts in the case, including any reply you submit, will be given full consideration before a decision is rendered. TO BE SIGNED BY PROPOSING OFFICIAL (MPOO) DRAFT #1 8/14/09 Notice of change in status to accompany notice of proposed reduction in grade This is to inform you that effective October 10, 2009, your status under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) will be changed from exempt to non-exempt and you will be subject to the pay and work rules applicable to nonexempt full-time postmasters. As a non-exempt employee, you will be paid on an hourly basis, instead of on a salary basis. Unless other Postal Service pay rules provide a higher rate of premium pay, you will receive one and one–half times your regular rate for all hours of actual work in excess of 40 hours in any FLSA work week. For more information, please consult section 432.34 and Part 444 of the Employee and Labor Relations Manual. The reasons for this change are set forth in the enclosed notice of proposed reduction in grade. As you all know postmaster General Jack Potter has suspended Convention Leave for the remainder of 2009 and for 2010. National President Dale and your entire Executive Board fought tirelessly to try and salvage this right. However even the attorney’s stated that although this suspension is a clear violation, winning the case in court would be extremely difficult taking the current financial state of the Postal Service. As a proactive attempt to continue to meet the needs of members and the extreme value that conventions offer for training, the North Carolina Chapter has opted to modify our convention dates for next year. In 2010 we will begin our convention on Saturday and end Monday at noon. This will hopefully preserve your coveted annual leave and still extend an opportunity to network and attend classes to help us be successful in the performance of our job. Postmasters will continue to do what is necessary to help each other and your National Officers are continuing to pursue all avenues available to restore your rights as a postmaster. By being actively involved we will succeed. As for this year’s convention in Atlantic Beach, it was great to have so many of you join us for a fun filled couple days that provided excellent training and fellowship. Congratulations to all the newly elected officers and I pledge the full support of the National Office to each. Let me encourage each officer and all members to be active in membership. This is our backbone and not only is there strength in numbers, but without active members we will never experience our full potential. I look forward to working with all of you and hope to see you soon. One final note, on July 10, 2009, the House Oversight Government Reform Committee approved HR 22 by unanimous voice vote. NAPUS played a vital role in helping make this accomplishment possible In closing a special so long to a very good friend and true leader within the Postal Service, Mr. Steve Holtz. Steve is a former postmaster and active NAPUS member. He also served as the POOM for the MidCarolina Coastal Cluster for 15 years and most recently as the District Marketing Manager. Steve remained a staunch supporter of NAPUS and attended the convention in Atlantic Beach. He has always encouraged postmasters to be members within the management organization and he will be missed. We all wish him well in his next chapter in life, Godspeed! dominick (May/June) Are you frozen? With no relief in sight, many postmasters are becoming frustrated, stressed and at wits end. But now is not the time to give in or give up. As most have experienced in life, what doesn’t kill you, will make you stronger. And I know many are saying; if I get any stronger I will be indestructible. But I for one refuse to give in or be defeated. With NAPUS you have a network of knowledgeable friends that will get you through these most challenging times. One refuge I find is with talking to peers across the country to see how they are doing and how they are dealing with issues. It also helps me realize I am not alone, and often provides solutions to problems. My point is that as a member of NAPUS, you have the greatest resource and largest network of experienced co-workers in the nation. So how do you tap in to this network if you haven’t already done so? By attending NAPUS meetings, functions and socials. By expanding your involvement, you expand your network. We all help each other but we all have a natural tendency to go an additional mile to help someone we have a personal association to. Now for your next and best opportunity! Atlantic Beach will host the next state convention beginning June 7th. For knowledge, stress relief, fun and fellowship, just register and attend the activities planned for this year’s convention. Where better to take paid leave to work and have fun afterwards while basking in the sun at the beach! This year’s training sessions will meet everyone’s needs and the entertainment is guaranteed to be remembered well beyond the convention. The Sheraton is an oceanfront property and has given us a very reasonable rate. I understand the rural carriers will be hosting an event following ours at a much higher rate. If you haven’t already registered you need to do so today. Then complete your leave slip and utilize your benefit of convention leave. If you don’t have coverage, contact your POOM and President Drew. Both will be happy to assist in locating help so you can attend. This is the best way to obtain the training that will help you do you job and everyone recognizes the value in attending. In addition, we are expecting NAPUS National President Dale Goff to be in attendance. With more than seven years experience at the national level, President Dale has an excellent rapoir with Postal Headquarters as well as those who have control over the direction of the Postal Service. If there is any doubt on how hard NAPUS has been working to help make our job reasonable, come to the convention and share your thoughts with President Dale. I can assure you he takes every voice to heart and will act on issues the will help create a better quality of work life for all. The choice is yours. See you at the beach! dominick Dominick L Spadaro National Vice-President Area Seven Postmaster General uses the "F" word at Leadership Conference Drastic Times Require Drastic Measures Let us not confuse drastic with desperate. And never tolerate behavior that is less than professional. As many of us return from the Leadership Conference in Washington DC a resounding message of "accountability" was echoed. We as managers are being held more accountable than ever, even when most do not have the resources needed to be successful. As we met with both North Carolina Senators and most Congressional leaders, each showed great interest in what we thought would help secure a strong and vital Postal Service. This year's meeting was unlike any other in the past. Rarely do we have the opportunity to meet with our House and Senate leaders, but this year we even had members immediately leave the floor after voting only to scurry to meet with us. In fact Senator Burr's office even provided a private tour of the Capitol as the senator made an appearance between votes. It was apparent how valued the success of the Postal Service is to the success of our country's recovery. We enlisted much support for HR 22 and I encourage each of you to write, not email, your representative to solicit their endorsement for this bill. The senate is watching this litigation closely and is in in favor of a slightly modified bill. It is imperative that we gain passage of this legislation so please don't leave it up to your neighboring postmaster to write. It will take your help if we are to be successful. How does this all tie in to our title? As everyone agrees, we are all being asked to do more and more with less and less. But one thing that cannot be compromised is respectful treatment. While the Postmaster General used the "F" word from the podium, no one was aghast. Yes, Mr. Potter stood before more than 1000 of us as said there was a hiring FREEZE. So many times have we been unable to fill vacant positions, but this is the first time that a hiring freeze is being openly acknowledged. So how do we deal with it? By invoking our best management skills. We must set clear expectations and communicate daily with all our employees. They need to know what is going on within the Postal Service and the colossal challenges we are tasked to overcome. Change is always difficult but the transition is much smoother when the reason for change is effectively communicated. Same is true with our manager. We need to have information shared with us as it becomes available. And share the issues being experienced at your facility with your direct report. You may feel that this sometime falls on a deaf ear but I assure you, most of our POOM's want to help. If nothing else, you are placing them on notice that anomalies occur that will contribute to less than desirable results. Freeze or no freeze, we will continue to move the mail and keep our customers served. Do what you need to get the job done but never compromise your integrity. Your employees deserve better and so do you. I am so happy for those who elected to take the voluntary early retirement and wish them the best. For those of us that remained, we will be successful and together we'll weather this storm. Just try to have a little fun in the process because when it stops being fun, well maybe it's not too late the VER has been extended. Hope to see everyone at the convention. I will guarantee an educational and FUN time! dominick For my first article as your new National Vic-President and the Immediate Chapter Past President of NC NAPUS, I would like to focus on leadership. We all know the definition of a leader and postmasters are expected to be a leader. Be it within your office, your community or throughout your day you must demonstrate leadership qualities to be an effective leader. But how many of you feel you have the authority to demonstrate your true ability to manage and lead your employees? Micro management has become so prevalent that not even our managers have the ability or should I say authority to manage little on support us. Not even District Managers appear to be in command of their troops. I am not referring to just the Districts within North Carolina, but this appears to be the policy throughout the country. While postmasters continue to have work added to their plate, our ability to truly manage is being chiseled away. I am hearing that most find themselves assuming all the risk without any feeling of gratification through self-achievement. Self-preservation is becoming a priority as the enjoyment in our job continues to fade. No wonder more of you didn’t take the early out. But then again, postmasters always rise to the occasion and demonstrate their true ability to overcome the odds. So good luck to all who found early retirement the venue of choice and shame on those who stay and don’t do something to help make their job fun again. The only advice I can share is to continue to be strong. Do your best and accept change with a positive attitude. Doesn’t sound easy but it is much easier when you network and take the time to talk and socialize with your fellow postmasters. I know you are thinking, “Who has time”! I say how can you afford not to make the time. No one knows better what you are going through or how to deal with the day-to-day challenges than your neighboring postmasters. You don’t have to attend the State or National Conventions. Or even go to the Leadership Conference in DC. (Although each will provide opportunities that only those who attend enjoy.) Everyone can make a few minutes to call or go to lunch with a neighbor. I guarantee it will be the best stress relief you will find. And who knows, maybe, just maybe you will stop being so short with your employees, your customers and even more importantly, your loved ones. Try it…you’ll like it. I promise. Hope to see you soon and look forward to hearing from you too. dominick