March_April ATCB

Around The Cracker Barrel - A Publication of the
Georgia Chapter of NAPUS (No. 43)
Published Bi-Monthly at Lexington GA 30648
USPS 136-440
Vol. 15 No. 2
March/April 2011
WOW.....
What a GREAT
Legislative
Conference!
If you were not
there, YOU missed
one of the BEST.
!
PAGE!
1
State President
Jeanne Dover
202 Autumn Woods Trl
Demorest, GA 30535-4600
O: (706)778-2751
H: (706)754-9363
C: (706)968-9793
[email protected]
Legislative
Louise Nix
88 Rodney Nix Rd
Cleveland GA 30528-4730
O: (706) 865-6146
H: (706) 865-4391
C: (706) 878-6173
[email protected]
Executive Vice President
Becky Manley
1530 E Broad St
Greensboro, GA 30642-2338
O: (706) 274-3430
H: (706) 453-4258
C: (706) 318-1562
Membership-North GA
Danielle Frazier
1051 Spring Creek Dr.
Bishop, GA 30621-1331
O: (706) 769-1396
H: (706) 310-9437
C: (706) 255-0273
[email protected]
2nd Vice President/
Conference Chairman
Judy Miller
4393 Tennille-Harrison Rd
Tennille, GA 31089-3311
O: (478) 552-2102
H: (478) 552-6347
C: (478) 232-7898
[email protected]
Secretary/Treasurer
Tammy Cantrell
116 ABB Helton Rd
Cleveland, GA 30528-3700
O: (706) 864-2517
H: (706) 865-3929
C: (706) 878-6017
[email protected]
Editor/Photographer
Robin Bugg
311 Lone Oak Rd.
Grantville, GA 30220
O: (770) 946-9785
H: (770) 583-3133
C: (770) 550-4978
[email protected]
Chaplain/Memorial Chair
Ruby Britt
P. O. Box 64
Baconton, GA 31716
O: (229) 787-5511
H: (229) 787-5537
C: (229) 328-0544
[email protected]
Constitution & By-Laws
Nancy Chapman
1041 Thornwood Dr.
Watkinsville, GA 30677-5343
O: (706) 769-4679
H: (706) 769-6876
C: (706) 296-4052
[email protected]
!
PAGE!
Membership-South GA
Scarlet Middleton
P.O.Box 3
Blackshear, GA 30526-0003
O: (912) 449-2419
C: (912) 288-4978
Parliamentarian
Gail Swann
PO Box 297
Comer GA 30629-0297
O: (706) 783-4075
H: (706) 783-4105
C: (706) 207-2595
[email protected]
Past President 2008/2009
Scarlet Middleton
P.O.Box 3
Blackshear, GA 30526-0003
O: (912) 449-2419
C: (912) 288-4978
PM Development
Tina Handrop
4410 Double Springs Rd
Monroe, GA 30656-3822
O: (770) 985-9945
C: (770) 601-7311
[email protected]
PM Representative—South
Joe Griggers
284 Rebecca Cir
Griffin GA 30224-7333
H: (770) 229-2123
C: (770) 584-0391
[email protected]
PM Representative-North
Roy Shaffer
162 Poplar Way
Winder GA 30680-8318
O: (770) 867-7701
H: (770) 867-2533
C: (404) 357-9596
Retiree President
David Lovett
P.O.Box 5374
Albany, GA 31706-5374
H:229-888-3621
Resolutions/Policy
Ada Czajkowski
2355 Booth Circle
Winder, GA 30680
O: (706) 725-7507
H: (770) 725-7864
C: (706) 207-2686
[email protected]
Service Representative
Theresa Kennedy
200 Harper Ln
Royston GA 30662-2246
O: (706) 384-4314
H: (706) 246-9281
C: (706) 498-3663
[email protected]
Transportation
Joan Franklin Ely
P.O.Box 1982
Blue Ridge, GA 30513-1982
O: (706) 632-2070
H: (706) 946-6034
C: (404)862-3344
[email protected]
Pac Co-Chair
J. J. Smith
275 Lori Lane
Riverdale, GA 30296-1648
C: (404) 641-8146
jjam8bellsouth.net
Pac Chairman
Johnny Nixon
367 Mary Collier Rd
Athens GA 30607
O: (706) 788-2275
H: (706) 549-9148
C: (706) 207-6016
[email protected]
PAST PRESIDENTS:
*Lon Livingston
*Lawrence McPahaul
*Duncan Flaunders
*Clarence Reynolds
*Charlie Brumby
*Alton Harvey
*Rosa Lindsey
*Clyde Hollingsworth
*Miriam Mallory
*Vernon Roberts
*Don Gibson
*Elizabeth Brock
*Harry Vickers
*Louise J. O’Connell
*Lanne Jamison
*Fred Peterson
*Woodrow Sutton
*Walter Phillips
*Earl Sewell
*Harry James
*Stacey Roberts
Tommie Kelley ®
George Camp ®
*Luther Turner
*Frank Callaghan
*Joseph Rush
*Frances Cowan
William Bryant ®
James Stubbs ®
*Joe Turner
Paul Burroughs ®
*Billie Hamrick
*Ed Gillis
Brenda Gunn-Reed ®
*John Ranson
Joan Steward ®
Tom Webb ®
*Bill Parker
E. Rex Cowart ®
W. Bennie Price ®
R. S. (Bob) Harrell ®
Thomas McKleroy ®
Barbara Tuggle ®
Ola Mae Ross ®
Bill Davis ®
Larry Youngblood ®
Louise Nix
Donald Phillips ®
Clarence Robinson ®
Donna B. Kinchen
Ben Tuggle ®
Judy G. Miller
Dayna Mahaffey ®
*Maggie Dunn
Tammy Cantrell
Jo Dyke
Sammie Reese®
Connie Clark
Nancy Chapman
Scarlet Middleton
* Deceased
® Retired
The views expressed in this
publication are the opinions of the
writer and not necessarily the
opinion or the position of the
National Association of Postmasters
of the United States.
2
Do Y! See Concern...........
in my eyes? Well there is because a lot is going on now in the postal service. Major changes are
happening and even more are on the way if all the rumors we hear are correct.
Did you miss the legislative conference? I think attorney Phil Jones said it right when he asked where
all the postmasters are why are they not here? Why do they not attend this meeting and the national
and state conventions?
Is it that they are not concerned about their jobs and they don’t attend? I think we have been under
the assumption in the past that there will always be a post office and we will just keep on going as
we are. I don’t think that is the scenario today, if things don’t change the postal service may not have
operating monies to last but a few months.
Pat Donahue said the postal service will continue to deliver to our customers, pay our employees and
our suppliers. This means something will go unpaid, the federal government. In the meetings on the
hill and listening to some of the congressmen many changes need to take place. We also need for
congress to allow the postal service to have access to funds that have already been paid to retirees’
health benefits. If we had this money to operate on our deficits would not be so great. It doesn’t stop
there; they say that the postal service needs to trim some expenses. We reduced expenses by $10
billion in the past 3 years. NAPUS supports legislation to enable post offices to offer a wider variety
of products and services. We are not asking for a bailout we just need to use money that is a
combination of postal employee and postal ratepayer funds.
Four things that we asked of our congressmen this year were: Ensure a Sustainable Postal Service,
Safeguard a Universal Postal Service, Protect Earned Postmaster Benefits and Promote Postmaster
Retirement Equity. These are important issues that should be every postmasters concern.
March 25th is supposed to be a big day for announcements so by the time you read this article, our
postal service will probably have many changes. We need to stay positive and do what is asked of us
for the future of the postal service. Many of the postmasters attending the legislative raised their
hands that they were CSRS employees and many raised their hands that they had less than 3 years
before they were eligible to retire. Being in this category doesn’t lessen their concern for the viability
of our jobs.
I hope to see you in Tybee for the state convention in June and then the SOC will be in Pigeon Forge,
Tn., in July and an then the national convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico in September. Call you
neighbor, bring a friend, share the expenses and know what happens when attending your
organizational meetings.
Until later I’m concerned.........
Jeanne
!
PAGE!
3
What NAPUS Means to me:
At the changeover meeting of 2009, Lee Pinson came to me and said that I should be the
poster child for NAUS. She shared how pleased she was to see me attending the conferences
and participating in NAPUS. I thanked her and as she left I thought how fortunate I was to
have been asked to join NAPUS and taken right in. You see, Gail Swann had contacted me,
and I had a dear friend, Nancy Chapman, whose coat tail I clung to for a long time. Nancy
introduced me to others and immediately I was accepted and included. Now I look for Lee
Pinson and all my many other friends to hug and catch up with at the meetings. What a
privilege to be a member of such an organization.
There are numerous reasons I love NAPUS besides the fellowship. The Georgia Chapter is a
family. Who doesn’t need more people to love and care about them? NAPUS members are
successful because of the training and information received at meetings. They are sincere
and helpful, always there to answer questions and available to assist in any way they can.
NAPUS members are patriotic and not ashamed of God. NAPUS works behind the scenes for
the betterment of postmasters. Then, there is the legal representation if you should ever
need it. If you are slightly undecided, give me a call and give NAPUS a chance.
We had a great midwinter conference in February at Little Ocmulgee State Park. The
attendance was the best in a long time. The food was excellent and the program was very
well planned, filled with interesting speakers and even a safety skit. We just returned from
Washington D.C. This is one of the most important things that NAPUS does. As a group we go
to Capitol Hill and let our voices be heard by our Congressmen. What could be more
important than the decisions being made in Washington that affects our jobs. I jokingly said
to Louise “I’d have to be in a coma for a year for you to be in Washington without me!”
Thinking back, I really mean it.
There is a lot going on in NAPUS. Don’t be left out, be a part. Together let’s try to get our
neighbors to join and our members involved. You need NAPUS as much as NAPUS needs you.
Until next timeBecky
!
PAGE!
4
Georgia Chapter NAPUS
Mid-Winter Conference
Little Ocmulgee State Park
February 11-13, 2011
RECEIPTS
Georgia Chapter NAPUS
$1000.00
Atlanta Postal Credit Union 500.00
Vendors
450.00
Hospitality Room (Tips)
21.00
Registration
3630.00
Total Receipts
$5601.00
DISBURSEMENTS
Waco Printing Group LLC (Mailout) Postage
$ 212.13
Little Ocmulgee Lodge
2543.88
Entertainment (DJ)
400.00
Goody Bags & Speaker Gifts 88.64
Hospitality Room
484.00
87.29
Registration Refunds 120.00
Return to GA Chapter NAPUS 1665.06
$5601.00
Total Disbursements
This is a true statement for the
Georgia Chapter NAPUS Mid-Winter Conference
submitted by Tammy Cantrell, Secretary-Treasurer.
!
PAGE!
5
What did I do while I was in Washington this year?
Well, I thought you would never ask. Since you did, let me just tell you. I know I have told you before,
but the annual Legislative Conference trip is my favorite. I enjoy so much being a part of the “voice on
the hill”, hanging out with my extended family, and spending a little time with my son and his girlfriend,
which drove up for the weekend from Langley Air Force Base. But my favorite part of my trip was
being a part of history. I know you are wondering what in the world has she done now.
I woke up on Tuesday morning to get ready to go to the hill, to make my visits to our congressman,
when I heard on T.V. that Frank W. Buckles was going to be laid to rest at 4:00 PM. Oh I thought, how
amazing that would be to experience with my own eyes history in the making. You see, Frank Buckles
was the last American World War I veteran; he was only 110 years old.
I could hardly wait to I spoke with my traveling buddies, Steve and Don. I told them, look guys, lets go
to see this full military funeral at Arlington today. I know they thought I was crazy but of course they
said okay. We went and spoke with Westmoreland, Stanford, and Gingrey on the hill and every meeting
was successful. We left the hill at 3:15 PM and I told the guys we could make it. We rushed to the
metro, now remember we are dressed in our Sunday best, which for me, meant heels. Well, Steve and I
were ahead of Don while we were fast walking through Arlington cemetery, trying to make it to the
resting place of Mr. Buckles. When suddenly, we saw a car go by us in the cemetery and low and
behold, Don had caught a ride. I thought that little--- you know what. Shortly after that an older
gentleman stopped and ask Steve and I did we want a ride. We took him up on the offer and got in the
car. It was so amazing, this man was Mr. Robert Elliott, a friend of Mr. Buckles. Steve and I became
very educated on Mr. Buckles and who everyone was at the funeral.
Let me tell you just a little about this amazing man of American history.
Frank Woodruff Buckles’ life spanned the awesome, horrible, fantastic, dreadful Twentieth Century. He
saw and experienced much. As America’s last surviving veteran witness to the First World War, his life
experiences and perspective is an artifact in our day, which often lacks perspective.
Frank Woodruff Buckles (born Wood Buckles; February 1, 1901 – February 27, 2011) was one of the
last three surviving World War I veterans and the last living American veteran of the war. Buckles
enlisted in the United States Army in August 1917 and went through basic training at Fort Riley in
Kansas. Serving from the Army's 1st Fort Riley Casual Detachment, he drove ambulances and
motorcycles near the frontlines, though he never saw combat. Honorably discharged in 1919, Buckles
continued to serve with the Seventh Regiment of the New York National Guard from 1922 to 1923.
During World War II, Buckles was not in the military but he spent the majority of the conflict as a
prisoner of war after being captured by the Japanese while working in the shipping business. After the
world wars, Buckles married in San Francisco in 1946 and moved to Gap View Farm in Charles Town,
West Virginia. His wife, Audrey, gave birth to their daughter in 1955. A widower at age 98, he worked
on his farm until age 105.
!
PAGE!
6
In his last years, he was the Honorary Chairman of the World War I Memorial Foundation,
campaigning to have the District of Columbia War Memorial renamed the National World War I
Memorial, including meeting with President George W. Bush. Buckles was also a Shriner, a
Freemason, a member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, the Sons of the American Revolution and a
church-going man. He was awarded the World War I Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation of
Germany Medal at the conclusion of the First World War, as well as the French Legion of Honor in his
last years. At the time of his death, Buckles was the oldest verified World War I veteran in the world,
the second-oldest male military veteran in the world and the last field veteran of the war. He was
buried on March 15, 2011 at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.
If you were not in Washington with me, I’m sorry you missed one of my most memorable experiences.
Until my next amazing adventure......
Robin
!
PAGE!
7
What in the heck are you doing now?
Just because we retirees have left our postal service jobs does not mean that
we are retired from life. On the contrary, we now have time to indulge in other
pursuits such as travel, sleeping in, entertaining grandchildren, or even part-time
employment elsewhere. And attending NAPUS meetings of course.
Sammie Reese suggested this article when he heard what I had allowed myself
to be talked into; and I had planned an article on former NAPUS scholarship
winners and what they are doing now as well.
Well, I have done little sleeping in, and don't see my youngest grandchildren or
two great-grands much; but I have a 92-year-old mother than has required 24/7
care for the past two years.
After leaving the postal service I spent 15 months cleaning closets, rearranging
furniture, painting and trying to get my acre-plus yard just like I wanted it. THAT
never happened.
I volunteered with Mitchell County's Certified Literate Community Program,
acting as chairman the first three years, and ran unsuccessfully for Mitchell County
Board of Education. I decided maybe I just needed more education myself and
signed up for four on-line courses and took a part-time job as reporter for the
county newspaper. I worked there for four years until six months after the death
of my husband.
I only quit then to get my latest book ready for the publisher and to spend
more time with my mother. Little did I know then, that in less than six months my
life would be arranged around my schedule with my mother. My sister stays on
Wednesday evenings and Sundays so that I can continue to play the piano and
teach Sunday School for my church.
Already a member of the Downtown Development Authority, I have stayed
active in community affairs; and after the city clerk quit in April of last year and
the council members had been trying to do that job with only one of the five
knowing anything about computers, the mayor persuaded me to take the job. Now
I am working three days each week (around my schedule with my mother) and
doing in those three days what had previously been a full time job.
So, here I am. Retired eight years, I put on my city clerk shoes and badge on
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; switch at 4:30 p.m. Mondays and some
Fridays to relieve another sitter with my mother two counties away -- except on
second and fourth Mondays when we have council meetings. On those nights I
have another sitter who stays until the meetings are over and I can travel the 25
miles to relieve her after my ten- or eleven-hour day. Almost seems like I'm back
at the post office!
Did you notice that Thursday was not included in the aforementioned
scheduled? Well, Thursday is MY DAY. I am retired, you know.
!
PAGE!
8
As for the scholarship winners who are just beginning their careers, Valeria Sellars
sent an update on her granddaughter Lauren Mathews.
Lauren moved to Savannah and transferred from Georgia Southern to
Armstrong Atlantic State University to pursue a bachelor's degree in biochemistry.
She is involved in intramural sports teams and the Georgia Southern Club softball
team. She also works for Fleet Feet Sports where she sells running apparel and
helps train local runners for 5k, 10k, and marathons. She hopes to build a club
team that can compete with schools such as Georgia Southern, Clemson, UGA,
and Georgia Tech.
"Since receiving the NAPUS scholarship a lot has changed in my life...Looking
back I am so grateful to have had the support of NAPUS when getting my feet wet
in college. I hope this scholarship fund continues for years to come and numerous
other individuals are impacted by the support the way I was. Thank you," Lauren
wrote.
Terra Robinson writes: "While an undergraduate at the University of Georgia, I
was lucky enough to receive a scholarship from NAPUS. At the time, that
scholarship helped me to graduate with a BA in journalism. I just thought I'd send
you a quick update to let you know that now, I'm preparing for a six-month
internship in Brussels after completing my MA in international relations in January
of this year. All I can say is: Thank you very much!"
Way to go, Terra!
Laura Christine (Chris) Shiver, my granddaughter, graduated in December of
2009 from Georgia Tech, just three and l/2 years after receiving a NAPUS
scholarship. She earned the highest GPA in the college of History of Technology for
her class and has spent the past year working two part-time jobs. Chris moved to
Louisville, Kentucky in January and continues her education at the Baptist
Seminary there. Currently, she is studying Greek and womens' studies.
We wish all these young ladies the very best in their current and future
endeavors.
Chaplain/Memorial Chair
Ruby B"#
!
PAGE!
9
Those Who Answered The Call.........
By the time you read this, the NAPUS Gang will be back from Washington, D.C. If
you remember this is the trip that you were suppose to be going on with us. Obviously
something really important came up, like planting your garden, watering your lawn,
(nope not that one), or worrying about DUO prevented you from attending. I know you
just wouldn’t stay home and not go fight for your job. Seriously folks I have been
pleading, no just plain begging you to attend this important trip. I do understand
everyone can’t attend however; we certainly should have had more than we did during
this critical time.
Nonetheless, I am proud and thankful for those who attended and walked the Halls of
Congress on the behalf of every Postmaster in the State of Georgia. These
Postmasters/OICs are to be commended for their dedication to NAPUS, the Postal
Service, and Postmasters.
I am going to list the names of the attendees so that you can say thank you the next
time you see them. Those fighting for your rights were Don Posten, Nancy Chapman,
Jeanne Dover, Louise Nix, Deborah Kinsey, Jacqueline Spradley, Beverly Alexander,
Derissa Shannon, Angelet Coombs, David Lovett, Sammie Reese, J.J. Smith, Robin
Bugg, Tammy Cantrell, Alicia Young, Roy Shaffer, Steve Rogers, Becky Manley, Karen
Wehunt, Jo Dyke, Johnny Nixon, Judy Miller, A tip of the hat to these folks.
After you thank these folks, why not ask what we learned concerning “redesign”, DUO,
5 day delivery, Zero Bundle Simulation, and transporting mis-sent mail. A highlight was
meeting, then having our picture taken with the Postmaster General!!! What a week,
one I will always remember as an important part of my career.
If I still have a career next year, I will be thankful to this group of devoted postmasters/
OICs that took the time to care about my job and me. I have said it before and
continue to say, “You don’t not have time to fight for your job.” Please start
attending our meetings, you may not know it, but you need us more now than ever.
Our lives changed on March 25th, with more changes to come. You need to stay
informed and become active in NAPUS. Our State Convention is in Tybee Island June
5 – 8. There is not better time to start attending than this convention.
Postmasters Proudly Serving Georgia, “Let Us Do Together What We Cannot Do
Alone”
Legislative Chair
Louise Nix
10
2011 Leg$lative Conference
Wa%ington DC
11
ELECTRONIC CONTRIBUTION TO NAPUS PAC
Innovative and Painless Choices to contribute to (NAPUS PAC) National Association of
Postmasters of the United States Political Action Committee.
Currently, NAPUS PAC provides an established innovative and convenient way for
postmasters to support Members of Congress and congressional candidates who work to
Safeguard our earned annuity, protect our health insurance, and defend our post offices just to
name a few. The program is easy to join:
RETIRED POSTMASTER:
(OPM Annuity Allotment)
(1) -Telephone
Step 1 – Dial 1 888-767-6738, the toll free number for the Office of Personnel Management
(OPM) Interactive Voice Response (IVR) telephone system. Have your CSA number and
Personal Identification Number (PIN) on hand when you call.
Step 2 – You may speak to an OPM customer service representative, or you may use the
automated system. Simply follow the prompts provided in the telephone system.
The amount that you key in will be your monthly allotment to NAPUS PAC. The start of your
allotment will depend on the time of the month it was requested. If you make your request
during the first two weeks of the month, expect the withholding to take place the first of the
following month. If the allotment is requested after the first two weeks of the month, the
change will take place the second month after the request.
Note: Retirees who do not have a Pin can obtain one by contacting OPM by telephone at
1-888-767-6738.
(2) -The internet: Go to www.opm.gov
-Click on “Employment and Benefits”
-Click on “Retirement Benefits”
-Under Retirement Services, Click on “Service on line”
-Enter your CSA number and Pin number, and log in
-Click on “Allotment to organizations”
-Select “Start” To begin new allotment
-Click on “Choose an organization” and select the National Association of Postmasters of the
US-NAPUS PAC
Enter the amount of your monthly contribution, click SAVE
12
(3) -Send a Letter: To office of Personnel Management, Retirement Operations Center,
Boyers, PA 16017. Be sure to include your CSA Number, the amount you wish to contribute
each month, and the organization. National Association of Postmasters of the US-NAPUS
PAC.
Send a copy of the letter to Attn: NAPUS PAC for Postmasters, 8 Herbert Street, Alexandria,
VA 22305-2600.
NAPUS ACTIVE POSTMASTERS:
(Postal Ease Allotment)
By Telephone: Members may use the established confidential and secure Postal Ease
telephone salary allotment system. In this way, you are able to make a “direct deposit” from
your paycheck to NAPUS PAC. Each postmaster currently has available for use one “net to
bank” transaction (your payroll direct deposit to bank) plus two allotments through Postal
Ease.
(1) Have the following information ready when you call Postal Ease:
-Your personal identification number (Pin)
-Your completed Postal Ease Allotment worksheet, including the routing number for the
NAPUS bank (054001220) and the NAPUS PAC account number (eight 7’s plus your social
security number) as shown in the worksheet.
(2) Call Postal Ease toll free at 1-877-4PS-EASE (1-877-477-3273)
-When prompted, select Postal Ease, enter your SSN and your PIN.
-Follow the script and prompts to complete the transaction using the information from your
completed Postal Ease Allotment/Net to Bank Worksheet.
(3) After completing your entries, you will hear and should record the following:
-Confirmation Number________________
-Your Choices will be processed on this date______________
_Your Choices will be reflected in your paycheck that is dated_____________
_Please keep this information and your Postal Ease Allotments/Net to Bank Worksheet.
Note: If you have forgotten your four-digit PIN, dial 1-877-477-3273 to have Postal Ease mail
your Pin to your home address. If you have any questions, please contact Cora Lee Martins,
NAPUS PAC Manager at 703-683-9027 or [email protected]
13
PAC Continued.....
NAPUS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION MEMBERS
Active and Retired Postmasters
NAPUS members who are members of the NAPUS FCU may transfer funds directly from their
NAPUS FCU account to NAPUS PAC on whatever schedule they choose by completing the
Authorization Agreement for Direct Transfer to NAPUS PAC form. Forms are available from
Cora Martins at [email protected] or calling 703-683-9027.
You may also contact GANAPUS PAC Chair Johnny Nixon (706) 207-6016 or
[email protected] or J.J. Smith JR, PAC Co-Chair (770) 991-1060
([email protected])
Please consider using E-PAC and if it does not work for you, we still collect your donations the
old fashioned way by envelops. I encourage all of you to donate to this worthy cause and
NAPUS PAC thank you in advance for all of your contributions.
Submitted by:
Thank you for returning this form with your contribution.
NAPUS
PAC for
I’ll do my share! Enclosed is: ___ $25 ___ $50 ___ $100 ___ $200 Other: $ _______
__________________________________
__ __ __ - __ __ - __ __ __ __
Name (please PRINT)
Social Security Number
Home Address:
Postmasters
Member
Voluntary
Contribution
Date: ____/____/____
_________________________________________
Street Address/PO Box
____________________________ _______
___________
City
ZIP Code
State
My contribution is by (check one): ! Check ! Money Order ! NAPUS FCU Visa Credit Card
Please charge my contribution to the following 16-digit NAPUS FCU Visa Account Number:
__ __ __ __
__ __ __ __
Exp. Date: _______
__ __ __ __
__ __ __ __
_____________________________________
Signature (required for credit card charges)
Office use:
___ Pin Received
___ Active Postmaster
___ Retired
___ Associate
State to credit ____
PAC for Postmasters will neither favor nor disadvantage anyone based on the amount
of a contribution or the failure to make a voluntary contribution to this non-partisan
political action fund.
J.J. Smith JR
GANAPUS PAC CO-CHAIR
If you would like just to send your contributions the old fashion way, send
to:
Johnny Nixon
367 Mary Collier Rd.
Athens, GA 30607
14
The Fight Is On......
The fight to defend the earned retirement pay, and health benefits of federal workers and annuitants is
happening now. We all need to descend on capital hill with our voices by calling our law makers. NAPUS
just returned from Washington fighting for protection of retired and active postmasters benefits. This will
not be the only fight we have on hand. Closing post offices will be a large fight as well. So everyone join the
team and make a strong fight for our benefits and closing of post offices. Get ready to attend the NAPUS
state convention in June at Tybee Island.
Sincerely,
David
2011 Postmaster Retiree
President
&inking of Y!
Please remember these families as they mourn the loss of a loved one:
Rosenia Washington, retired Postmaster of Gadsden, SC
Ed Rowswell, husband of Marilyn Rowswell, retired Postmaster of Murrayville
Paul Beal, father-in-law of Ruthie Cauble, NAPUS National Secretary Treasurer
Mildred Phillips, retired Postmaster of Ailey
Clyde H. Hewell, retired Postmaster of Elberton
John T. Stubbs, retired Postmaster of Summerville
Richard Turk, retired Postmaster of Rutledge
Leonard Wallace Allred, father-in-law of Bob Randolph, Postmaster of Dawsonville
husband of Lynn Murray, Postmaster of Ideal
Please notify Robin Bugg of any families that we need to be thinking of.
[email protected] or 770-550-4978 (cell) or 770-583-3133 (home)
True compassion $ love in action
15
Ramblings of an Old Man
03/22/2011
While at the Legislative Conference, I had the privilege of listening to the PMG. I’ve heard Mr.
Donahoe speak on several occasions and have always been impressed. As you can see, I was
able to have my picture taken with him and have it hanging in my office. I think the changes
he’ll bring will be needed although many will not be popular. I was fortunate this time to be able
to ask a question (Louise had gone to the meeting early and staked claim to the seats near the
microphone). My question was one I thought was on many Atlanta District Postmasters’ mind
since joining the Cap Metro Area. “As Deputy PMG, you did away with redundant logs yet Cap
Metro still requires a Zero Bundle Simulation Folder and when called, the office has twenty
minutes to fax pages of reports that both the District and Area already have access to”. Mr.
Donahoe’s response was the same one he gave when I heard him speak at a South Carolina
state Convention. He said that the Zero Bundle Simulation was the biggest waste of time and
that he would get it taken care. He also said that he told the Area VPs on several occasions to
stop the unnecessary logs/eports. Maybe the Area VPs didn’t listen because he was only the
Deputy PMG at the time. Let’s wait and see if he carries more weight as the PMG.
I know it seems that we take a beating every day since joining Cap Metro but if you look at the
reports, Atlanta’s not that bad. It seems like we’re in the middle of the pack in most areas. After
the conference, I went and stayed with my mother-in-law who lives in the Northern Virginia
District. On Wednesday evening, she checked her mail at 7:20 P.M. and the carrier hadn’t
come yet. Both Thursday and Friday, she received her mail after 6 P.M. How would you like to
be a city carrier delivering a walking route in the dark? How safe can that be?
I got a call a couple of weeks ago from a PM who was instructed to hand carry their bank
deposit to N. Metro. Seems there was a problem with the deposit and the deposit wasn’t going
to be ready prior to the closeout PVS truck. The clerk did a Nil Bill as required but that wasn’t
good enough for the @MPOO. This was a serious SAFETY issue since the deposit contained
over $19,000 in cash. I sent an e-mail to the District and voiced my concerns. That same day,
this @MPOO again instructed his Postmasters to hand deliver their bank deposits if they
weren’t ready in time for the closeout dispatch. I spoke to a Postal Inspector who was in my
lobby for consumer protection week and she asked me to e-mail her the particulars so she
could forward the information and get a response. She e-mailed me while I was gone and said
under no circumstances are employees, managers, or Postmasters to transport bank deposits
in their personal vehicle and in any vehicle other then the scheduled transportation. I forwarded
the inspectors e-mail to the District. If this happens again, call me. It makes one wonder why
some managers in authority forget common sense when making decisions.
til
next time.....
PM Rep. North GA.
Roy Shaffer
16
NAPUS Federal Cre!t Union’s Helping Hand Program
Are you experiencing financial difficulties?
The Credit Union wants to reach out and help you with financial counseling when you are unable to
manage the debt on your own. NAPUS FCU has experienced Loan Counselors that can help you get
your finances back on track!
Often your financial problems are not as bleak as you fear. If you have equity in any assets or if you
have access to a co-signer we can usually help. Even if you don’t, there are still options available to
you!
•
•
•
•
Extensions on already existing loans
Work out loans
Debt Consolidation Loans
Mortgage Refinance
NAPUS FCU can also help you re-establish your credit. Special options with our Visa cards and loan
programs are available to help get you back on track.
Let NAPUS FCU give you a helping hand! Contact a Loan Counselor today at 1-800-336-0284.
Join NAPUS FCU!
Service Rep.
"eresa Kennedy
17
President’s Update, March 23, 2011
We just completed another successful Leadership Conference. More than 800
NAPUS members traveled to Arlington, VA, to hear from speakers—with differing
views on the path the Postal Service needs to take—and visit their lawmakers on
Capitol Hill to educate them on issues vital to the sustainability of the Postal
Service.
It is unprecedented in NAPUS’ history to have had the Postmaster General visit our
conference on three occasions. PMG Pat Donahoe attended a reception for the
Executive Board on Thursday, addressed the convention body on Monday and
attended our grand banquet Tuesday evening.
The PMG’s message has been consistent in regard to what will happen if the Postal
Service runs out of money in September: “We will deliver the mail, we will pay our
hard-working employees to deliver the mail and we will make sure we pay our
suppliers. The thing we will not do is pay the federal government.” Since taking
office, the PMG has lived up to his pledge of monthly meetings with the three
management associations; he hasn’t missed one yet.
Last week, NAPUS was the first of the three postal management organizations to
storm the Hill. NAPS and the League are holding their legislative conferences this
week. I commend those NAPUS Postmasters who took the initiative to come to the
Leadership Conference on their own time and at their own expense. It’s critical we
send our message to our lawmakers not just during our Leadership Conference, but
continually, week after week.
At the conference, I urged Postmasters to remind our lawmakers they share
responsibility for the financial mess with which the Postal Service has been dealing.
Congress helped create it with implementation of the Postal Accountability and
Enhancement Act. They are the only ones who can fix it. And they need to fix it—
this year.
Postmasters heard encouraging words at the Leadership Conference from some on
Capitol Hill. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) told convention attendees, “The reports of
the demise of the Postal Service are very premature.” He said Congress needs to
provide legislative flexibility. And Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) described rural post
offices as the heart and soul of a town. He pledged, “We’re going to do everything
we can to make sure these town centers remain alive and open to the people.” The
April-May issue of the Postmasters Gazette will have comprehensive coverage of
the Leadership Conference; it will mail to members on April 19.
18
We are waiting for Friday’s announcement from Postal Headquarters on the
elimination of districts and reduction in the EAS work force. As I’ve said before,
change doesn’t come easily; it requires sacrifices, sometimes painful ones. Since
2008, 8.5 million Americans have lost their jobs.
The Postal Service has reduced its work force by 22,334 employees in the past
year alone. We have lost post offices over the same period, but we have not lost
Postmasters! Don’t, for one minute, though, believe Postmasters are immune from
these reductions because we have yet to be impacted. We need to be vigilant. How
long Postmasters can survive may very well depend on how effective we are with
the new Congress and the PRC.
One message conveyed by more than one speaker at the conference was we all
need to work together to make Postmasters’ jobs more creative. Our challenge is
to help envision a new Postal Service for the 21st century. The NAPUS National
Office has been working with Postal Headquarters, members of Congress and the
PRC to accomplish this.
During PRC Chairman Ruth Goldway’s speech at the Leadership Conference, she
said NAPUS should consider sending the PRC a wish list as to how 21st century
post offices should look. We plan on sending her that list in the next 30 days.
As your national president, it is my responsibility to ensure the Postal Service
remains viable, that current Postmasters have jobs to support their families and
that your rights and benefits are protected. On my watch, NAPUS has not—and will
not—shy away from its responsibility of protecting and promoting your rights and
benefits and the title of Honorable Postmaster.
Postmasters have worked through tough times and great challenges. The future
for Postmasters holds even tougher times with greater challenges. Don’t let the
rumor mill distract you. We worked through it before and we will work through it
again. Why? Because we are America’s Postmasters and we’re good at what we
do. We deliver!
Robert J. Rapoza, National President
National Association of Postmasters of the United States
19
LOCATION, COST, ATTENDENCE & INFORMATION
By Judy Miller, 2011 Convention Chairman
Have you ever planned a family reunion, meeting, conference or convention? You want
everything to be perfect. You start thinking, will anyone come to this planned event? Will I
have enough good information to present to those who attend? Will you be able to stay
within your budget? Will you have enough planned to cover your allotted timeframes? Will
you have enough food to fed everyone? Will you have enough planned activities to make and
keep your group entertained? Will you give those in attendance their dollar worth?
Well when I started planning for the mid-winter conference, all of these questions and
doubts crossed my mind. First I tried to find a centrally located hotel in order to allow more
convenience for those coming. Second, it had to be reasonably price and have adequate
room for the number of people you hoped would attend. It had to be conformable, reliable
and friendly green. Not necessarily for the environment but the green in your pocket. In
today’s world the first thing all of us look at is cost rather you are at work, home or planning
a meeting. You look for corners to cut cost everywhere you can and still get your dollars
worth.
I found the best place to host the mid-winter conference, Little Ocmulgee Sate Park.
Beautifully located, perfect weather and reasonably cost effective. Nice clean rooms, friendly
staff, beautiful golf courses and reasonably price
Cost is always a big concern. Pre-registration was $60.00 per person. Did you get
your money’s worth? For $60 you had a full seafood buffet on Friday night that was delicious
fresh hot food. Saturday for lunch we had southern fried chicken and black eyed peas. For
supper Saturday night, what better way to end a conference than with prime rib buffet? Plus
those who occupied a room received a full breakfast buffet each morning. I think so.
Then attendance was a concern. Last year at this same conference, Mr. Locklear, the
South Georgia’s District Manager, asked for a show of hands of the SGD people. How
embarrassing when only 5 or 6 Postmasters were there. He said that with as many offices
within driving distance of the location, there should be a lot more Postmasters there from
SGD. He asked then that we encourage all Postmaster and OICs to attend. Well, thank you
SGD Postmasters. You came through this year. We had 22 walk-ins, 25 retirees and 69 preregistered for a total of 94 people. There would have been over 100 except there were a few
that called and cancelled due to sickness. Based on attendance the last couple of years, I
planned the meeting expecting 50-60 people total. No problem, we just had to get the hotel
to add more chairs and tables on Saturday to accommodate everyone who showed up.
Outstanding!!! We’re glad you all came.
Then what information were those in attendance expecting to take away from the
meeting? Well I’m confident that we covered almost everyone’s current concerns. Topics
from DUOs to closing & consolidations to proper scanning to safety. And lots of questions
answered.
20
Mr. Locklear shared his concerns and updates about the current status of the Postal
Service from the financial side. Changes have to be made and will be made in order to insure
the stability of the Postal Service. Most private businesses that are in the same financial
shape as the Postal Service have locked their doors and cut their losses. Changes are
necessary in order to survive and they are coming fast. On March 25th, there will be some
major changes announced. Brace yourself because it’s going to be fast and painful. Joey
Mauldin from the Atlanta District continued with more information on behalf of Ms Wiley,
their District Manager. Are you ready? If not, buckle up and hold on because the waters are
going to get rough.
Keith Lamb, SGD’s DUO coordinator continued with information concerning the moving
and consolidation of routes. He stated that we have to show a savings before a route will be
moved to another office. We need to remember that Keith has been challenged to help save
the future of the Postal Service. It’s not a job of “got you”. Stop and think of the big picture.
Cutting a route or clerk from your office is just part of saving the big picture. We can provide
the same reliable service to our customers from another office. Most customers won’t even
be aware of the changes. Hold on and accept these changes for the future of the Postal
Service.
From DUOs to scanning, Karen Bridger, SGD Business Solutions Specialist explained
that we have to improve our scanning performance. In order to compete with our
competitors, UPS and Fedex, we have to provide at least the same if not better
service. It’s what the customers want and have asked for. I know you’ve had at least
one customer to tell you that they could ship a package with our competitors and
were able to track where their package was at all times. That’s what we must provide
in order to gain and retain the customers. Happy customers come back and we need
customer to help insure the future of the Postal Service. Make all of those scans. NO
CUSTOMERS—NO REVENUE—NO UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE.
More ways to save revenue is through safety. Lanette Hodge-Tolton, acting
safety manager from Atlanta district gave an excellent demonstration on handling
contractor safety. Did you know that before ANY contractor or their personnel can
conduct any work on the premises of the USPS that you are required to have a signed
form from the contractor or their representative? Me either. But you do. If anyone
from outside the Postal Service does any work you must as Postmaster provide a copy
of the safety rule book to the contractor or their representative before any work can
begin. They must sign and date the form and you must be able to provide it if
requested. This signed form is like insurance to us that if anyone or anything is
damaged or injured while in/on your premises while work is being preformed, it’s the
responsibility of the contractor, not the USPS. This handbook is a guide to safe work
practices that will protect postal and contractor employees. If an accident occurs
during the contractor’s job, it could be very costly to the Postal Service without this
signed agreement.
21
So at the end of the conference, we had an excellent location, information,
great food and fun. You should have been there. Make plans now to attend the state
convention at Tybee Island June 5-8, 2011. Watch the webpage at www.ganapus.com
for all updates about the convention. Bring a friend. See you there.
Until next time, hold on and brace yourself for a rough ride.
Looking forward to seeing you ALL YEAR...
!
Judy Miller
!
2nd VP, Conference Chair
NAPUS State Convention
June 5-8, 2011
Tentative Schedule
Sunday, June 5, 2011
10:00 Golf (registration form can be found on the GA Napus website)
1:00-5:00
Registration (hotel lobby)
3:00-5:00
Hospitality Room
4:00
Executive board Meeting
6:00-8:00
President’s Reception (hotel restaurant) dress/ business casual
8:00-11:00
Entertainment
Monday, June 6, 2011
7:00-8:00
Breakfast (free for hotel registered guest)
7:00 8:15
First Timer’s Breakfast (Dolphin Reef Restaurant)
8:00-11:00
Registration
8:00
Vendors Display opens
8:30
Door Prizes and Call to order
10:00-10:20Break
10:30 Business meeting continues
12:00-1:30
Lunch
22
1:30-3:00
Retirees Meeting
1:30 – 2:15
Training Session # 1
2:15-3:00
Training Session # 2
3:00-6:00
Hospitality Room
6:30
Banquet Meal (Hotel Restaurant) Dress/Business Casual
8:00
Entertainment
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Breakfast (present breakfast ticket at restaurant)
8:45
Door Prizes/General Session Continues
10:15-10:30Break
12:30 Lunch
1:30
Panel Discussion
3:00-5:00
Hospitality Room Opens
5:00-8:00
Dinner on your Own
8:00-11:00
Hospitality Room Opens
8:00
Entertainment
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Breakfast with hotel ticket
Enjoy the Beach or depart for home
Depart for Home
•
Remember to bring your favorite goodies for the hospitality room.
•
Remember to bring or invite a neighboring Postmaster or OIC.
•
Door prizes appreciated but not required. (door prizes are fun and we’ll continue drawing as long
as they last)
•
Golf Registration: visit our website for updated information
23
2011 GA NAPUS STATE CONVENTION
June 5-8, 2011
Ocean Plaza Beach Resort
1401 Strand Avenue
Tybee Island GA 31328
912-786-7777 (call now for reservations)
Room Rate: $109.00 per night plus tax inland or $159.00 Oceanside (breakfast
included). Prices increase after May 6, 2011.
Group Name: GA NAPUS
POSTMASTER, OIC AND SPOUSE OR
GUEST-----------------------------------------$ 50.00
RETIREE, SPOUSE OR GUEST OF
RETIREE---------------------------------------------$ 40.00
DAY REGISTRATION (includes meal &
break)----------------------------------------$ 30.00
FIRST TIMER: (circle one) YES
NO
** Postmarked NLT May 20, 2011**
Mail registration fee(s) to:
Tammy Cantrell, 116 ABB Helton Rd, Cleveland GA 30528-3700
Name:______________________________Title:___________________________
Office:_____________________________________________________________
Home Address:___________________________________________________________
Spouse or Guest
Name______________________________________________________________
24
25
26
EXTRA, EXTRA, READ ALL ABOUT IT......
LOUISE NIX ANNOUNCES HER CANDIATCY FOR
2012 STATE PRESIDENT OF NAPUS.
YOUR VOTE WILL BE APPRECIATED!
ALWAY S
WORKING
FOR
NAPUS.....
27
CAMPAIGN UPDATE
March 27, 2011
Robert J. “Bob” Rapoza
NAPUS National President
2012-2013
Postmasters are facing a landscape that is changing and frightening to many of us. We
are concerned about our offices being down-graded or worse yet, closed. Uncertainty
permeates every level of the Postal Service with the announced reorganization and
consolidation of Districts along with the Voluntary Early Retirement and Reduction in
Force for the affected EAS employees
The effectiveness of NAPUS in influencing change is determined by our leadership’s
ability to partner with others. The extent of our success will be measured by
relationships, trust, and credibility that our current National President Bob Rapoza
continues to build with key leaders at Postal Headquarters this past year.
During challenging times, experience makes the difference. Bob Rapoza is a proven
leader with a proven record. He has led us well with his experience and knowledge
during this past year by establishing the trust and credibility required in developing a
respected working relationship. He accomplished this by using his common sense
approach along with years of experience as a NAPUS Leader at every level of our
organization.
Two most recent examples of his proven leadership are:
•
Resolving a long overdue FLSA settlement for 350 Postmasters without one
penny being spent on litigation
•
Retaining “Indefinite Saved Salary” for DUO-affected Postmasters who potentially
could have lost up to $26,000 of their annual salaries.
It is up to us to ensure that NAPUS continues to have a proven, qualified leader at the
helm as we navigate through uncharted waters.
As leaders, we witnessed this past year the strides NAPUS made in resolving issues
that were pending for several years. Bob’s continued leadership through 2013 will
ensure that NAPUS remains a major stakeholder in the sustainability and viability of
NAPUS and the Postal Service.
We ask that you review his experience and accomplishments and join us in using your
influence to ensure Bob continues as our national president through 2013.
Attend your state convention and vote to support Bob for re election. To date, the
following fifteen (15) states have given Bob an executive board endorsement:
Colorado
Michigan
West Virginia Connecticut
South Dakota Wyoming
North Carolina
Georgia
Maryland
Hawaii
Florida
California
Minnesota
Nevada
Vermont
28
Our voice, our leadership and our commitment can make it happen. Let’s keep NAPUS
on the right track by using our influence at your state convention by providing Bob your
full state endorsement.
Committee to Re Elect Bob Rapoza NAPUS National President 2012-2013
Dear Editor:
May I respectfully request you print my letter of candidacy in your fine
publication.
Dear Colleague:
The growth of our Credit Union has been amazing! We are now a $270
Million (plus) financial institution! Success such as this does not just happen.
This growth has been possible first and foremost because of your loyalty, the
innovations of our knowledgeable staff, and the commitment to financial
conservatism by a dedicated Board of Directors and other committee
members who serve our Credit Union unselfishly.
As a member of the Board of Directors, I am running for re-election and I am
asking for your vote, and those of your family members.
No doubt, your are aware of the persistent unstable economic climate in our
country. To navigate this challenging environment, we will require increased
watchfulness and professionalism to continue to maintain our financial
posture of stability, growth and excellence.
I promise to expend all of my energy to achieve this goal. Should I receive
your support, be assured I will continue to work tirelessly to repay your good
faith and confidence in me.
Ballots will be in the mail in late July. Please look for them. Thanks for your
vote.
Sincerely your,
Joseph M Gondola
29
30
Registration Form NAPUS 107th National Convention
San Juan, PR September 10-15, 2011
Registration also available on line at www.napus.org
Please Note: one attendee per registration form
First Name:_________________________________
Last Name:______________________________________________
Title:______________________________________
First Name (as it should appear on your badge): __________________
Post Office You Represent(ed):
City: ________________________________________ State: ____________________
Your Mailing Address: _______________________________________________________________________________
City: _____________________________________________________________________ State: ______ Zip: _________
Day Time Phone: ________________________________
Evening Phone: ___________________________________
Registration Fee:
9/12/10
to
10/01/10
10/02/10
to
4/01/11
After
4/01/11
Postmaster / Spouse/Guest
$175
$220
$250
OIC/Associate
$175
$220
$250
Postmaster Retired/ Spouse/Guest
(Postmaster Retired Luncheon Included)
$150
$185
$205
Children (17 and under)
(Includes child’s meal at the Grand Banquet)
$80
$80
$80
(Please circle fee that applies)
Are you planning on attending the NAPUS Annual Golf Tournament?
Payment:
Check payable to NAPUS # __________
NAPUS-FCU Visa
Visa/MasterCard
Cash
American Express
Card Number:
______________________________________
Yes
No
Convention Fee:
$ ____________
___ Additional Tickets for the
Postmasters Retired Luncheon
@ $25 each
$ ____________
Total Payment:
$ ____________
Expiration Date: _________
Card Security Code: _________
Signature: __________________________________________
31
Periodical Postage
PAID
at
Lexington, GA 30648
Around the Cracker Barrel is published every other
month by the Georgia Chapter 43, National Association
!
of Postmasters,
118 Boggs St., Lexington GA 30648.
Members of the Georgia Chapter receive the publication
as part of their annual dues. Others -- Subscription price
$10 annually. Periodical Postage paid at Lexington GA
30648.
Postmasters:
Send address changes to:
Around the Cracker Barrel
GA NAPUS Editor
311 Lone Oak Rd.
Grantville, GA 30220-2016
Address Changes
for The Gazette & ATCB
can be made at www.napus.org under
Membership Services, change my record
using your Membership ID found on the
mailing label and your last name.
NEVER use postal stationery,
telephone, or computer for
NAPUS business.
Around the Cracker Barrel
Robin Bugg, Editor
311 Lone Oak Rd.
Grantville GA 30220-2016
Phone: 770-583-3133
Email: [email protected]
If you didn’t see your article in this publication......Guess why???
Send your articles to me by May 15th and watch for improvements every
issue.
Thank you,
Robin
32