From A to Arbitration

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Corey opens "The Lion's Den" by reiterating his commitment to providing strictly educational content, aiming for episodes to be around thirty minutes. He begins with shout-outs to Branch 3028 in Texas, acknowledging the devastating floods they experienced and offering prayers. He also promotes fundraising events for CLC candidates Richie Ray (Region 15) and Bill Kribel (Region 12). Corey then issues a challenge to EVP Paul Barner, referencing past instances where labor reportedly influenced arbitrators to amend decisions or remove them from panels. He highlights a specific regional arbitrator's statement of not abiding by a national arbitrator's decision and challenges Barner to take action against this regional arbitrator, drawing a parallel to labor's alleged ability to influence arbitrator removals. Corey stresses his own commitment to never complying with such requests if he were in a leadership position, emphasizing that it's management's responsibility to adhere to national decisions. The core of the episode involves Corey reading several key M-documents and an arbitration decision related to PET, DOIS, and route time standards. He stresses the importance of these documents for carriers to understand their rights and for stewards to build cases, framing it as a choice between being "good" or "great" in their advocacy. He reads M-01664, M-01444, M-00385, M-00326, M-01769, M-00829, and M-00005, explaining how each document reinforces that DOIS/PET projections are not the sole determinant of a carrier's workload or performance and cannot be the basis for discipline without proper, documented evidence like efficiency counts (e.g., 4584s or 1838Cs). He emphasizes that management's reliance on these projections, especially when they fail to conduct proper observations or when mail volume is not accurately accounted for, is a violation of the National Agreement. Corey then reads an arbitration decision (C-29806 by Arbitrator Jonathan Monette from 2012) concerning a "pivot board" in San Diego, which he connects to the current issue of "auto pivots" and management's continued misuse of DOIS. He details how the arbitrator ruled against management's use of the pivot board and DOIS as the primary tool for determining workload and leave times, emphasizing the arbitrator's findings that such practices violated the M-39 and M-41 handbooks and national agreements. The arbitrator ordered management to cease and desist from using pivot boards, using DOIS as the primary tool, and instructing carriers on leave times without proper discussion. Finally, Corey shares a brief story about a carrier who refused to use a vehicle with a broken air conditioner, was instructed to take lunch, and consequently faced a grievance. He uses this to underscore the paramount importance of carrier safety, stating that management's disregard for it is a recurring theme and urging carriers to grieve such situations rather than take undue risks. He expresses his continued dedication to educating the membership and fighting for their rights, looking forward to the CLC's takeover and the increased transparency and fight they aim to bring. Concernedlettercarriers.com

Corey begins by apologizing for removing a Saturday episode and explains his intention to keep "The Lion's Den" episodes focused. He starts with shout-outs, first to Mallory, and then to Badmouth Morris, a friend and advocate for city letter carriers who is currently facing hardship and has a GoFundMe. He also thanks Branch 3792 in Midland, Texas, and acknowledges David Bryant from Iowa for his advocacy. Corey then expresses his strong disagreement with the notion that the NALC provides sufficient education to all its members, citing feedback from individuals who learned more from his podcast than union meetings. He contrasts this with the extensive educational efforts of James Henry, the current CLC candidate for president, whose responsibilities have reportedly been stripped due to his candidacy. Corey passionately defends James Henry against what he describes as a smear campaign, highlighting Henry's extensive resume and vision for change within the union. He criticizes the current leadership and those who oppose Henry, accusing them of clinging to the status quo and using divisive tactics. Corey then explains the reason for deleting his Saturday episode: extreme anger stemming from a video of a young female carrier in Chicago who brought her children to work in her vehicle. While acknowledging the carrier's actions were wrong, Corey empathizes with her situation, imagining her struggles with childcare and attendance, and her potential reliance on the promises made by the current president regarding pay increases. He sees this as a reflection of the broader issues faced by carriers, such as financial hardship, attendance-related discipline, and the union's leadership failing to deliver on promises. This empathy and anger led to a highly charged episode he felt compelled to remove. Corey reiterates that management is the "enemy" and describes their tactics as dishonest, disloyal, and harmful to carriers. He criticizes the misuse of tools like PET, DOIS, the 16.7, and scanners, as well as the weaponization of attendance policies and the hijacking of the grievance procedure, citing examples of management refusing to settle grievances or falsifying documentation. He contrasts this with James Henry's vision for a more aggressive, educational, and transparent union, emphasizing the "Dogs of War" initiative to tackle toxic work environments and other issues by holding management, including district managers and AVPs, accountable. Corey expresses his excitement for the upcoming changes under the CLC, promising to educate all members, not just stewards and advocates, and to be transparent with live Zoom sessions. He encourages listeners to educate themselves and volunteer for the new teams being formed. fromatoarbitration.com https://gofund.me/1215dffd

Corey begins "The Lion's Den" by informing listeners that he will be pre-recording the upcoming "From A to Arbitration" episode due to his attendance at the Texas State Convention. He then emphasizes his desire to keep "The Lion's Den" episodes focused and relatively short, though he anticipates today's will be longer due to reading arbitration sites. He references last week's episode where he played a teleconference recording, highlighting the "disdain" and "incompetence" of upper management towards city letter carriers, and reiterating his long-held belief that they need to be more aggressive in their approach. Corey stresses the importance of education within the union and mentions that the incoming CLC leadership will bring a more militant and offensive approach. Corey then dedicates the majority of the episode to reading and analyzing three arbitration sites. He explains that reading arbitration decisions is a crucial self-education tool, allowing one to understand management's arguments, the union's positions, and the arbitrators' decisions. The first case, from February 2009, deals with the Postal Service's use of DOIS (Delivery Operations Information System) projections to set carriers' daily office and street times, and whether this created a hostile work environment. Corey notes how management's arguments then are remarkably similar to current ones, particularly regarding PET and DOIS. He meticulously breaks down the union's and management's arguments, as well as the arbitrator's findings, highlighting how the misuse of DOIS primarily as a basis for setting leave and return times and the resulting stressful environment violated the M-39 handbook and related settlements. The second case, from 2015, addresses similar issues of management using DOIS projections as the sole determinant of carriers' leaving times and the practice of announcing all mail is up before it's actually distributed, leading to undue stress. Corey reads the facts, the parties' positions, and the arbitrator's discussion and findings, emphasizing how these practices created an impossible situation for carriers. He draws parallels to the current use of PET and the denial of 3996s. The third arbitration site, from 2019, focuses on the removal of a CCA for "unsatisfactory performance," specifically for exceeding projected times. Corey highlights how management failed to provide evidence of actual misconduct or time-wasting habits, instead relying solely on DOIS/PET projections. He points out that management did not conduct proper street observations or gather evidence like 4584s or 1838-Cs to support their claims. Corey concludes by reiterating the importance of these arbitration sites for understanding arguments, contractual language, and management's tactics, and promises to continue educating the membership on these critical issues. concernedlettercarriers.com

Corey begins by thanking listeners and giving a shout-out to branch 82 in Portland for their hospitality during a recent visit. He also expresses gratitude for the birthday wishes he received. Corey then discusses a troubling teleconference recording he heard, featuring two upper management individuals who demonstrated a severe lack of understanding regarding postal contracts and operational realities. He highlights their reliance on unrealistic metrics like PET and DOIS, and the detrimental impact this has on supervisors and managers, who are then pressured to enforce these impossible standards. Corey emphasizes how this creates a toxic work environment, particularly for injured employees, as illustrated by the unprofessional and disdainful attitude displayed by one of the managers in the recording. Corey then shifts to analyzing a screenshot of management directives for city letter carriers. He criticizes several of these directives, including those concerning "no lunch" requests, mandatory personal phone contact for unscheduled leave, and the expectation for carriers to gather by scanner bays before their shift begins. Corey explains that these directives are often local policies that conflict with established handbooks and manuals, and that grieving them under Article 5 (past practice) and Article 41, Section 3k (prohibiting work off the clock) is appropriate. He also addresses the rising cost of uniforms and the potential for carriers to be sent home due to a lack of approved footwear, stating this also warrants a grievance. Furthermore, Corey discusses the disallowance of 3996s based on "delivery program estimates," which he connects back to the problematic metrics discussed earlier, and expresses concern about directives regarding route parcel verification and PM office time. He also mentions that management is increasingly refusing to meet and resolve grievances, instead sending them up the chain, and suggests including Article 19 and the USPS/NALC Joint Statement of Expectations in grievances related to this issue. Corey reiterates his commitment to addressing these issues and improving the workroom environment through the "Dogs of War" initiative, noting the overwhelming positive response he received for it. He concludes by urging listeners to be safe, especially in the heat, and expresses optimism for positive changes ahead. fromatoarbitration.com

In this episode of "The Lion's Den," Corey begins by apologizing for the delayed episode due to his travels and a lengthy search for a crucial audio recording. He describes the recording as a teleconference featuring a district manager and a station manager, highlighting it as a perfect example of the disconnect between upper management and frontline supervisors, and how upper management's directives create a hostile work environment. Corey expresses his intent to play snippets of this recording to illustrate how management discusses carrier performance, injuries, and the misuse of tools like PET (Performance Evaluation Tool) and DOIS (Delivery Operations System). Corey reiterates his focus on route protection and explains that PET and DOIS are central to this discussion. He elaborates on how these systems are used to set unrealistic expectations for carriers, particularly regarding office time and street performance, often disregarding fixed office duties, breaks, and individual circumstances. He shares his frustration with management's ignorance of established procedures and prior arbitration decisions, such as the lack of a street standard and the prohibition of using single-day counts for discipline. Corey then provides extensive grievance advice, referencing key legal and contractual documents that carriers and stewards can use to combat management's misuse of PET and DOS. He cites National Level Settlements M-01769 and M-01664, which clearly state that projections from these tools are not the sole determinant of a carrier's workload and cannot be used as the basis for discipline. He also references M-00304 and M-01444, which address the lack of street standards and the prohibition of using PET or DOIS as the sole basis for discipline. Corey emphasizes the importance of documenting everything, including carrier statements, management's words, and the actual conditions of the route, and advises carriers to request copies of all relevant forms, like the 3996 and 1017b. He critically analyzes the management's perspective heard in the audio, pointing out their focus on numbers over carrier well-being, their disregard for carrier injuries and requests for breaks, and their failure to follow proper procedures for performance evaluation and documentation. Corey stresses that management's actions, particularly the directives from upper management to use PET and DOS despite their flaws, directly contribute to a hostile work environment. Corey concludes by expressing his dedication to fighting these issues, promising that when the CLC takes over, they will have specialized teams well-versed in OSHA, grievances, and confronting management's ignorance and abusive practices. He reiterates his deep love for the city letter carriers and his unwavering commitment to their safety and well-being, urging them to protect themselves and to rely on the union for support and education. concernedlettercarriers.com

Mallory and Badmouth host a roundtable discussion focused on the Building and Fighting NALC (BFN) initiative, CCA Summer, and organizing CCAs. They begin by acknowledging the loss of fellow carriers Jacob JT Taylor and Dan Workman, stressing the dangers of the job and the importance of looking out for one another. The core of the episode centers on the BFN's "CCA Summer" program, aimed at providing support and education to CCAs, particularly on Amazon Sundays, where they often face demoralizing conditions, lack of information, and limited union presence. Chris Persampieri from Branch 34 Boston, along with Ryan Miller and Dennis Carson, details how they initiated their outreach by showing up at Amazon Sunday locations with coffee and donuts, educating CCAs about their rights, pay, and the importance of union involvement. They discovered a significant knowledge gap among new CCAs regarding basic union functions and contractual benefits. Ernest Gonzales from Branch 421 San Antonio and Cesar Hernandez from the same branch discuss their efforts in Texas. Ernest highlights the BFN's national platform, fightingnalc.com, and the available resources like informational flyers and scripts for organizers. Cesar emphasizes the importance of reaching out to CCAs and RCAs, especially in underserved areas of Texas, and the need for a union presence that understands their specific struggles. He speaks about the necessity of having representatives who share similar backgrounds and languages, like himself, to effectively organize and advocate for members. The roundtable highlights the challenges of organizing due to the demanding nature of the CCA job, the lack of consistent union support in some areas, and the deliberate tactics used by management to divide employees. They stress that even small gestures, like offering water or simply being present and available, can make a significant difference. The need for CCAs to know their rights regarding breaks and scheduling, and to utilize union representation for any issues, is reiterated. The conversation also touches on the importance of state associations and congressional advocacy, with a call to action to support HR 1065, the Postal Police Reform Act, which aims to provide better protection for letter carriers. There's a discussion about the ongoing fight for better wages and working conditions for CCAs, with BFN advocating for an all-career workforce and a $30 per hour wage. The episode concludes with plugs for various podcasts, upcoming events, and resources for those interested in getting involved in organizing and union activism. https://www.fightingnalc.com/cca-summer-materials http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/ https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

Corey returns after attending a "Next Generation Carrier's" Zoom event and traveling to Seattle. He expresses his enthusiasm for the city letter carrier movement and the growing solidarity among different podcast hosts and carriers. He previews upcoming interviews with Pam Donato, a candidate for Director of Retirees and OWCP on the CLC slate, and James Brennan, a candidate for President of the Rural Carrier craft. Corey then delves into crucial safety matters, particularly regarding heat. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and utilizing various union documents and NALC resources when filing safety grievances. He meticulously breaks down key articles from the National Agreement (Article 14 and Article 19), the Employee and Labor Relations Manual (ELM 8-Safety, Health, and Environment), and handbooks like EL801 and EL814. These sections highlight management's responsibilities and commitments to providing a safe working environment, which Corey stresses are vital for grieving management's failures. He specifically points out language regarding management's commitment to preventing injuries, their responsibility for employee well-being, and the requirement for training. He addresses common questions and issues raised by carriers concerning heat, such as broken air conditioning in offices, managers denying breaks, and the misuse of stationary time. Corey provides practical advice for carriers, including how to use PS Form 1767 to report hazards, the importance of documenting all interactions with management, and how to handle situations when denied breaks or assistance. He criticizes management's disregard for carrier safety, particularly when it conflicts with production numbers, and vows that the CLC, if elected, will create specialized teams to address these issues and hold management accountable. Corey then transitions to his interview with Pam Donato, who shares her extensive background in the union, starting as a steward in 1989 and progressing to branch president and a special assistant at NALC headquarters. She discusses her work in community outreach and her decision to join James Henry's CLC slate for the upcoming election, driven by a shared vision for a stronger, more responsive union. Pam expresses her belief in the power of the city letter carrier movement and her commitment to rebuilding the NALC. Following Pam's segment, Corey interviews James Brennan, a candidate for President of the Rural Carrier union. James echoes Corey's sentiments about the need for a fighting spirit, addressing toxic work environments, and holding management accountable. He criticizes the current leadership for their detachment from the craft and their handling of contract negotiations, highlighting specific instances of perceived failures. James emphasizes the importance of solidarity between city and rural carriers and calls for a unified effort to improve working conditions, fair pay, and management accountability. He stresses the need for updated union information systems to better support stewards and carriers. Both Corey and James express their shared goal of creating a union that actively fights for its members and makes a positive impact on the workroom floor. fromatoarbitration.com

In this episode of "The Lion's Den," Corey returns after traveling to Seattle and immediately dives into the topic of route protection, specifically addressing the use of the Performance Evaluation Tool (PET) and its misuse by management. He begins by describing an audio recording he possesses of a district manager berating a station manager for not adhering to PET projections, even when the station manager cited mail volume and carrier restrictions. Corey highlights how upper management's insistence on PET, which he argues is flawed and doesn't account for real-world conditions like office time, parcel counts, or weather, creates a toxic work environment. He plans to play a snippet of this audio in future episodes, provided it doesn't compromise the source. Corey then thoroughly explains PET, its purpose, and its limitations, emphasizing that it consistently assigns the same street time regardless of mail volume and fails to account for essential office tasks. He details how PET projections are used to create an unfavorable "office time" metric, automatically putting carriers at a disadvantage. He also explains how management uses PET and other tools like DOS (Delivery Operations System) to justify disciplinary actions, despite national-level settlements like M-1769 and M-1664 that state these projections are not the sole determinant of a carrier's workload or return time. Corey provides extensive grievance advice for situations involving PET, including proper issue statements, facts to document, and relevant contractual provisions and settlements. He stresses the importance of carriers verbally informing management if they cannot complete their routes in eight hours, requesting a PS Form 3996 (Carrier Auxiliary Control), filling it out completely with detailed reasons, and keeping a copy. He advises carriers not to argue with management but to politely ask for instructions and to call back to the office for clarification if needed, always documenting these interactions. He also touches upon the misuse of PS Form 1571 (Undelivered Mail Report) when management instructs carriers to curtail mail, and the denial of 3996 requests based on PET projections, particularly in the context of "auto-pivot" plans. He criticizes the union's current leadership for not adequately addressing these issues and for the perceived inadequacy of DRT (Dispute Resolution Team) decisions, which often seem to favor management. Corey expresses his deep frustration with the "establishment" within the union, accusing some of prioritizing their positions over the well-being of city letter carriers. He vows that if elected EVP, he will lead a militant union that actively confronts management and addresses these issues, prioritizing the carriers and creating a safe and harmonious work environment. He draws an analogy to the movie "300," emphasizing the need for the union to take the fight to postal management rather than waiting for problems to arise. Corey reiterates his commitment to the city letter carrier and his determination to bring about change, encouraging carriers to prepare for upcoming route inspections and to stand up for their rights. He ends by expressing his love for the city letter carriers and assuring them that better days are coming when the CLC ticket, with James Henry as president, takes over. He also announces his upcoming appearances on other podcasts and his continued dedication to addressing heat safety and route protection issues. concernedlettercarriers.com

In this emergency episode of "The CCA Corner," Mallory and Badmouth address the critical issue of heat safety, prompted by the recent passing of two union brothers, Jacob JT Taylor and Dan Workman, due to heat-related causes. They emphasize the increased danger of the job, especially during heat waves affecting various regions. The episode features extensive information sourced from OSHA, CDC, EPA, and carrier experiences, with a disclaimer that they are not medical professionals. The hosts detail the symptoms and first aid for heat exhaustion and the more severe heat stroke, stressing the importance of recognizing signs like confusion, dizziness, and elevated body temperature, and calling 911 immediately. They also introduce less commonly discussed heat illnesses like Rhabdomyolysis (rhabdo), heat syncope, and heat cramps. The discussion covers medications and pre-existing conditions that increase susceptibility to heat illness. They stress the importance of consulting doctors about these risks. Practical advice is provided on what management can supply (ice, water, electrolyte powders, cooling towels, sunscreen, fans) and what carriers can purchase themselves, such as coolers, water jugs, lightweight clothing, cooling vests, extra socks, and personal fans. They advocate for framing these items as safety gear to management and utilizing the union for procurement if management is unresponsive. Tips for staying cool include drinking plenty of water and electrolytes, preferably cold, and consuming hydrating foods like fruits and lightly salted snacks. They advise against chugging water and recommend avoiding alcohol and excessive caffeine. They also cover using cooling towels on pulse points, feet in ice water, and exploring accessible air-conditioned spaces. Mallory shares her personal experiences with heat illness, crying from heat stress being her trigger to seek cooler temperatures, and finding relief through various cooling methods. Morris emphasizes the importance of hydrating the night before, drinking fluids consistently throughout the day, and using electrolyte supplements. He also shares tips on keeping coolers cold and utilizing wet wipes or makeup remover wipes for hygiene. The episode stresses the importance of documenting heat exposure and conditions on 3999s, taking breaks diligently, and never refusing water offered by customers. They highlight the value of building a community through group chats to check on fellow carriers and sharing resources like accessible restrooms or cooling spots. They also mention the NALC's Heat Illness Prevention Program and the new Employee Retention Program, which allows consultation with other carriers about route conditions. Finally, they conclude with a solidarity soapbox, encouraging CCAs and all carriers to look out for each other, offer water and support, and to push for necessary breaks. Episode Summary https://fromatoarbitration.com/ https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

The main focus of the episode is heat safety, with Corey expressing his frustration and anger over management's perceived double standards and negligence. He criticizes the USPS for falsifying HIPP training, citing instances where safety managers allegedly told carriers that HIPP training is no longer conducted, despite official USPS materials indicating its continuation. Corey contrasts this with the strict enforcement of safety rules for carriers, such as those related to seat belts and wheel curving, which can lead to emergency placements. He argues that managers who make unsafe statements, like limiting breaks only when temperatures reach 110 degrees, are not held accountable. Corey then reads two documents provided by Manny Peralta, NALC's Director of Safety and Health. These documents detail the USPS's Heat Illness Prevention Program (HIPP) for 2025, outlining training requirements, responsibilities for management, and emergency procedures. The materials emphasize the importance of calling 911 for heat-related illnesses and the need for carriers to look out for one another. Corey highlights the stark contrast between these official safety guidelines and the actions of some managers. He also shares a list of letter carriers who have tragically died due to heat-related illnesses in recent years, underscoring the seriousness of the issue. Corey reiterates his commitment, if elected EVP, to address these safety concerns and management's misconduct. He vows to target negligent managers and supervisors, using grievances and OSHA complaints to make examples of them and change the culture within the Postal Service. He expresses his unwavering stance against the establishment and his dedication to prioritizing the city letter carrier, stating that he will not change his principles, even if it means not being elected. Corey concludes by expressing his deep love and concern for the city letter carriers, emphasizing that their safety and well-being are paramount. He encourages carriers to continue supporting each other, as their union leadership has largely failed them. He promises to handle the "establishment bullshit" and assures listeners that the CLC ticket, with James Henry as president, will bring integrity and a focus on the carriers back to the union. fromatoarbitration.com

In this episode of "The Lion's Den," Corey concludes his six-part series on the M39 Handbook's Section 2, focusing on route inspections and six-day counts. He expresses relief at finishing the lengthy reading, highlighting its importance for stewards to become specialists in route inspections, which can benefit their station, district, and area. He then delves into the specifics of various route adjustment reports: the Existing Route Summary Report, the Adjusted Route Summary Report, the Allied Time Report, the Territory Transfer Summary Report, and the Route Summary Report. Corey meticulously explains the purpose and content of each report, guiding listeners on how to interpret the data, compare existing and adjusted route values, and identify potential discrepancies or validations needed. He stresses the importance of comparing totals between reports and documenting any time changes or territory transfers, referencing the Form 1840 Reverse. He also points out the critical detail that allied time does not automatically transfer and must be manually moved by management. Corey provides detailed explanations of each section within the Route Summary Report, including possible deliveries, allied time, street time, office time, priority time, and total route time. He also breaks down the allied time details, explaining loading, travel to, travel from, travel within, deadhead, and relay times, noting that relays often have zero time associated with them, which may indicate an issue. He highlights the Territory Transfer Summary Report's utility in arguing against scheme changes that management may not have minimized as required. Looking ahead, Corey announces that the following Wednesday's episode will focus on "route protection," a crucial topic for new stewards preparing for September 1st, when new processes may be implemented. He also mentions his continued commitment to heat safety during the summer months, sharing his personal experience with a walking route and the significant difference in heat exposure compared to riding routes. He advises listeners to stay safe, hydrate, and take breaks as needed, emphasizing that their health and safety are paramount. Corey announces upcoming podcast guests: John Murphy from Next Generation Carriers for a discussion on heat safety on Sunday the 13th, and Pam Donato from the CLC ticket, whom he describes as a strong advocate for city letter carriers. He concludes by thanking his listeners, encouraging them to prioritize their safety and hydrate, and jokingly congratulating them on becoming "official union nerds" for listening to all the episodes. Concernedlettercarriers.com

In this episode, Corey discusses the crucial topic of the Heat Illness Prevention Program (HIPP) training and related safety issues. He begins by addressing a recent report that a safety manager claimed HIPP training is no longer conducted, which he calls a grievance and vows to address if elected EVP. Corey then reads a communication from Manny Peralta, head of safety and health for the NALC, which details the 2025 HIPP requirements, including specific training materials and the importance of supervisors calling 911 in case of heat-related emergencies. He contrasts the postal service's stated priority of employee safety with instances of management's alleged negligence, such as a carrier being placed on emergency placement for calling 911 during a medical emergency. Corey also highlights a positive example of an MPOO (installation head) who instructed supervisors to deliver electrolytes and allow carriers to cool down in staff cars, contrasting this with a manager who reportedly stated that additional breaks are only permissible when the temperature reaches 110 degrees. Corey shares advice from a thirty-one-year carrier, emphasizing the importance of documenting all communications with management, requesting CA-1 forms when feeling ill, and taking necessary breaks. He relays the senior carrier's analogy of being the captain of one's own ship, encouraging carriers to prioritize their safety. He reiterates his commitment, if elected EVP, to target managers who issue dangerous directives and create toxic work environments, promising to bring the full force of the NALC to bear on such individuals. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Corey addressing allegations made on Mike Caref's podcast. Corey refutes claims about his integrity, particularly regarding a 50/50 raffle at the Illinois State Convention. He clarifies the situation, explaining that he bought tickets and instructed the organizer to give any winnings to James Henry, and that the organizer thanked him for his support. Corey expresses disappointment that his attempt to do something nice was politicized and distorted, and he criticizes Mike Caref for allowing lies about him and James Henry on his podcast. Corey asserts his unwavering commitment to the city letter carrier craft and his anti-establishment stance, emphasizing that he will not compromise his principles, even if it affects his electoral prospects. The episode concludes with Corey re-emphasizing the critical nature of heat safety, urging carriers to hydrate, take breaks, and prioritize their well-being. He expresses his love for the city letter carriers and his determination to protect them, promising to address political matters and hold those accountable who spread lies. fromatoarbitration.com

In this episode, Corey Walton joins Josh and Bill to discuss various issues affecting postal workers. Corey begins by mentioning his appearance on the "United We Scan" podcast, a rural carrier podcast where he discussed the city letter carriers' movement to change union leadership. Josh describes the oppressive heat and the challenges of working in an LLV without air conditioning, emphasizing the need for carriers to take breaks when necessary, regardless of management's directives. He also touches upon route adjustments and how they are working in his favor. Bill, a retiree, shares his experiences handling various office situations, particularly those related to heat. He expresses frustration with management's response to the heat, the lack of air conditioning in LLVs, and the need for proactive measures to protect carriers. He also highlights public concern for postal workers' safety and the perceived incompetence of postal management. The podcast then delves into the core topic: the low voter turnout for a tentative agreement. Corey explains that social media and increased educational efforts, including podcasts and Zoom calls, were crucial in mobilizing city letter carriers to participate in union matters, unlike in the past. He contrasts this with the perceived apathy in the rural carrier craft, attributing it partly to the evaluated route system, which encourages individual focus rather than collective action. Corey stresses the importance of "love" and unity within the union, arguing that these qualities are essential for protecting members and driving change. He criticizes the current leadership for prioritizing financial gain over the well-being of the craft and calls for a new generation of leaders who are committed to fighting for the carriers. The discussion continues with an examination of the NALC's handling of the tentative agreement, with Corey detailing the promises made and ultimately not kept regarding wage increases and an all-career workforce. He expresses disappointment with President Renfroe's leadership and the arbitration process. The conversation broadens to include the struggles of CCAs, the differences in delivering mail compared to past decades, and the lack of appreciation shown to postal workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing parallels to a previous incident where carriers received Lifesavers as a reward. They then address the issue of comparable work and how arbitrators value postal work, suggesting that UPS and FedEx are more appropriate comparisons than previously thought, given the increasing parcel volume and the demands of the job. The conversation highlights the need for union solidarity across different crafts and the importance of active participation in union affairs, such as conventions and local meetings, to effect change. The episode concludes with final thoughts, emphasizing the critical importance of hydration, safety, and unity, and reiterating the message that carriers must stand up for themselves and their craft to ensure a better future. https://www.facebook.com/groups/6657441934270929/ fromatoarbitration.com

In this episode of "The Lions' Den," Corey continues his in-depth discussion on six-day route counts, emphasizing the critical importance of understanding and utilizing various postal handbooks and forms like the M-39 and M-41. He highlights specific sections within these handbooks that empower carriers and shop stewards to challenge management's actions, particularly regarding office time, street time, and the proper handling of parcels. Corey stresses the need for meticulous documentation and paying close attention to details on forms like the 1838-C and 1840-B, as these are crucial for building grievances and protecting carriers' rights. He points out how management might attempt to manipulate these procedures, and provides guidance on how to identify and counter these tactics. Corey also touches upon the significance of heat safety, referencing past grievances and union strategies to protect carriers during hot weather. He reiterates that the city letter carrier's health and safety are paramount and encourages members to be informed and proactive in protecting themselves and their colleagues. The episode also mentions the importance of utilizing resources like Discord and Reddit for information sharing and support within the union. Corey highlights the upcoming CLC initiatives and expresses his commitment to educating and empowering members. concernedlettercarriers.com

Corey addresses the critical issue of heat safety for letter carriers, emphasizing the alarming frequency of heat-related illnesses and fatalities. He expresses frustration with the NALC's perceived inaction and lack of guidance on this matter, contrasting it with the proactive community efforts seen on social media. Corey highlights the importance of staying hydrated, taking breaks, and utilizing cooling methods like wearing light clothing and using towels. He reiterates that the carrier's health and safety are paramount, more important than mail volume or management directives. Corey details specific grievance procedures and contractual language from the M39 and M41 handbooks that support carriers' rights to take breaks and challenge management's attempts to penalize them for prioritizing their well-being. He also reviews past arbitration decisions and settlements, such as the cease and desist orders and monetary remedies, that can be used as precedents for current grievances. Corey shares his personal commitment to fighting for the carriers, even if it means facing criticism, and stresses the need for collective action and education to protect the membership. He announces that he will be resuming his regular podcast schedule and continuing to provide education on crucial topics like six-day counts and route protection. fromatoarbitration.com

Corey continues his deep dive into route inspections and the six-day count process, emphasizing the critical role of understanding and utilizing the M-39 and M-41 handbooks. He highlights how management may attempt to manipulate data and time, particularly concerning street waiting time and office time calculations. Corey stresses the importance of carriers being aware of their rights, meticulously documenting their work, and challenging any discrepancies or violations of the contract. He revisits specific sections of the handbooks and arbitration decisions, such as those relating to vehicle inspections, carrier consultations, and the proper use of forms like the 1838-C and 1840-B. Corey also touches upon the potential for grievances related to management's actions, especially in the context of the newer "autopivot" tools and the ongoing issues with heat safety. He reiterates the need for carriers to be informed and prepared, emphasizing that the union's strength lies in its educated membership. Corey also mentions his upcoming vacation and expresses his continued dedication to providing educational content, even from afar. concernedlettercarriers.com

Corey begins by expressing his frustrations with the current NALC leadership, particularly President Renfroe, whom he criticizes for incompetence, corruption, and a lack of integrity. He also touches upon the impact of his malfunctioning laptop on his recording schedule, but reaffirms his commitment to the city letter carrier craft. Corey then introduces and interviews Paul Perry, the branch president of NALC Branch 1100, the largest branch in the country. Perry shares his experiences at the Committee of Presidents (COP) meeting, where he challenged Renfroe's claims about the arbitration process and the TA. Perry recounts Renfroe's aggressive reactions and his apparent disregard for the membership's vote against the TA. Both Corey and Perry express their disdain for the leadership's actions and their commitment to fighting for the members. They also discuss the importance of the CLC movement and the need for reform within the union. Perry highlights the power of collective action and the significance of rank-and-file involvement in driving change, emphasizing that individual branches are making their voices heard. Corey expresses his admiration for Perry's passion and dedication and his hope for a positive future for the union with new leadership. The interview delves into the union's internal politics, the potential for constitutional amendments to limit presidential power, and the broader implications of the current situation for letter carriers across the country. The conversation also touches on the importance of education and awareness for new members, particularly CCAs, and the need for a stronger, more representative union. Fromatoarbitration.com

In this episode of "The Lions' Den," Corey continues his detailed breakdown of six-day route inspections and related union procedures, focusing on the critical aspects that can impact a carrier's time and potentially lead to grievances. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and utilizing specific forms like the 1838-C, 3999, and 1840, as well as contractual language and past arbitration decisions to protect carrier rights. Corey highlights how management may attempt to manipulate these processes, particularly regarding street waiting time and office time calculations, and advises carriers to meticulously document all interactions and potential discrepancies. He stresses the need to be aware of management's obligations, such as conducting annual route and unit reviews and providing carriers with advance copies of relevant forms and documentation. Corey also touches upon the significance of breaks and how management might attempt to restrict them, urging carriers to be informed and to file grievances if their rights are violated. He reinforces the idea that understanding these procedures is crucial for the city letter carrier, as it empowers them to protect their time and ensures fair treatment, especially in the face of management's potential "steal" tactics. The episode also includes a brief mention of future topics like route protection and the potential impact of new joint route adjustment processes. concernedlettercarriers.com

Mallory and Badmouth dedicate a significant portion of the podcast to the crucial topic of mental health, acknowledging its prevalence and impact within the postal service. They begin by honoring two fallen brothers, Mathew Rorie from Branch 41 and Dan Workman from Branch 113, and offer condolences and information for sending cards. The hosts emphasize the importance of destigmatizing mental health conversations, comparing mental health struggles to physical health issues and highlighting the prevalence of neurodivergence. They explain that society and work structures are often designed for neurotypical individuals, and it's okay for brains to work differently. The episode delves into various mental health concerns, including stress, burnout, low self-esteem, and specific conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and others, noting their often invisible nature. They stress that mental well-being affects not only the individual but also their families, coworkers, and customers, reinforcing the concept of solidarity and kindness. The podcast provides practical advice on seeking help, discussing different types of therapy (CBT, psychodynamic, humanistic, behavioral) and mental health professionals (psychologists, counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, primary care physicians), with a recommendation to use the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) as a primary resource. They highlight EAP's usefulness in finding local mental health professionals and its confidential, free nature, and also mention the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The episode also touches on CareFirst benefits and resources like PsychologyToday.com for finding therapists. They encourage listeners to be their own best advocates, explore various treatment options, and not give up if the first approach isn't successful. The episode concludes with a powerful message of solidarity, encouraging mutual support, empathy, and personal growth, urging listeners to utilize available resources and take care of themselves and each other. They also mention upcoming episodes on CCA conversion, scheduling, and travel. 1-800-EAP-4YOU - Eap4you.com (USPS & Family)National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline -Call or text 988 for a free, confidential conversation with a trained counselor, 24/7 https://988lifeline.org/Crisis Text Line - Text ACTION to 741741 to be connected to a crisis counselor https://www.crisistextline.org/Samaritans - Preventing suicide and providing hope 877-870-HOPE (4673) https://samaritanshope.org/Veterans Crisis Line - 800-273-TALK (8255) and press 1, Text to 838255 to connect veterans with a trained responder https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/Teen Line - 800-852-8336 Text TEEN to 839863 to connect with highly trained teen listeners The Trevor Project - 866-488-7836 https://www.thetrevorproject.org/ Crisis intervention and suicide prevention for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning young people ages 13-24Institute on Aging's Friendship Line - 800-971-0016 Email [email protected] Crisis line for people aged 60+ and adults with disabilitiesParent Stress Line - 800-632-8188 https://www.parentshelpingparents.org/stresslineNational Helpline for SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) - For individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders 800-662-4357 https://findtreatment.gov/MA Substance Abuse Helpline - 800-327-5050 https://helplinema.org/National Alliance on Mental Illness Helpline - 800-370-9085Project Semicolon - https://projectsemicolon.com/Project YES (for teens having trouble accessing services) - https://www.schleiderlab.org/yes.html https://fromatoarbitration.com/ https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

Corey expresses his deep affection for the city letter carrier craft and his commitment to advocating for them. He addresses personal attacks he's received due to his outspoken nature, emphasizing that he speaks his mind and does not apologize for it, as his focus is solely on the city letter carrier. Corey revisits his past experiences as an advocate, highlighting his dedication and integrity, and shares stories of both wins and losses in arbitration, stressing the importance of honesty and preparation. He then addresses a number of critical issues impacting carriers, including the perceived incompetence of current union leadership, the detrimental effects of management's "dogs of war" tactics and the arbitrary implementation of metrics like stationary events and hour office time. Corey also discusses the importance of the "dogs of war" concept as a direct response to these issues and outlines plans for addressing the toxic working environment. He announces his upcoming vacation and a return to his usual episode format with a focus on education, including a look at six-day count issues and a review of important legal decisions. Corey stresses the need for a strong, educated union membership and reiterates his dedication to serving the city letter carriers. He also touches on the upcoming election cycle, expressing his confidence in the CLC's chances and the need for continued member engagement. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of self-care and mutual support within the union, offering his personal number for anyone needing to talk. fromatoarbitration.com

In this episode of The Lions' Den, Corey continues his discussion of six-day route counts, providing in-depth instruction on the practical aspects of challenging management actions. This week's session is devoted to reviewing the PS form 1840-B, a critical tool for evaluating street time in route counts. He presents a detailed overview of the form, highlighting the crucial line items and providing a guide on how to recognize and challenge time deductions that could be improperly recorded by management. He stresses the importance of the information found in the actual documentation, detailing various steps that carriers can use for the process. concernedlettercarriers.com

In this extended episode, Corey reacts to his previous week's podcast, with the intent to answer those who have said that he had been unfair in what was said. The episode is a critical analysis of the current state of the NALC and the individuals involved, particularly President Brian Renfroe and Executive Vice President Paul Barner, and the implications of decisions being made and that they have enacted. Corey addresses those, particularly former president, Lew Drass, and expresses that Lew had been "watching from afar" during the past three years. He shares his views on the upcoming election and the importance of unity and a commitment to the well-being of city letter carriers. Corey presents a new challenge to the status quo, calling for a change. fromatoarbitration.com

Corey discusses the upcoming meeting and the key areas management is targeting to take control over the city letter carriers, detailing strategies to combat management's tactics during a six-day route count. Corey then transitions into addressing the importance of documentation for both the city letter carriers and management, with a particular emphasis on form 1838-C and 1840. This episode is a breakdown of the essential elements of a successful route inspection and the importance of the post-inspection week and carrier consultations, and discusses how to best prepare and file a grievance on the basis of any problems and what to look for. concernedlettercarriers.com

In this episode, Corey touches on a variety of topics, beginning with his appreciation for the new name for the Wednesday episodes: The Lions' Den. He then discusses the importance of educating oneself on the rules. He also references the upcoming election and the need for involvement, emphasizing the critical need to vote for leaders who prioritize the interests of city letter carriers. Corey then discusses what happened in the previous episode about the charges from members of branch 70. Corey gets into some points and then the main topic of the episode, LMOU, Local Memorandum of Understanding, by reading the minutes of a management meeting that reveals management's plans. He then reviews a decision from National Arbitrator Mittenthal to reinforce points on how the LMOU should be done. Finally, Corey reinforces the city letter carrier's rights, particularly regarding the upcoming new "autopivot" implementation and the steps involved in handling this new system. He highlights that the carrier can get time back. He also highlights the importance of knowledge of the 3996. http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Corey reviews the importance of 1838C and the critical role that line items 22 and 23 play in determining street waiting time. He continues with handbook EL-801, where he reads through the vehicle safety standards. He discusses the importance of vehicle inspections and the carrier's requirements and responsibilities regarding their vehicle. Next, Corey delves into the core principles of the six-day count, emphasizing the importance of carriers verifying data and, when warranted, requesting form 3996. He stresses the importance of reading and retaining records. Corey details the various areas management will use to try and steal a carrier's time, including travel, and he provides a review of several sections of the M-41 handbook as well as the M-39 handbook. He then goes in and discusses the value of the current union contract. concernedlettercarriers.com

This episode begins with Corey's expression of gratitude to listeners and acknowledges the shift in his podcast format, now under the banner "The Lions' Den," a new name. Before moving on to his discussion of cases, Corey introduces two special guests: Jenna and Stephanie, who are actively involved in efforts to instigate a special convention within the NALC. He then gives a brief rundown on what it means to prepare and when, with a good overview of Robert's Rules of Order. During their interview, Jenna and Stephanie highlight the importance of the upcoming meetings for a special meeting, calling for all branches to send a letter requesting the meeting. The two women's main focus is ensuring that the voices of the membership are heard. Then, the episode proceeds to discuss two particularly valuable arbitration decisions and provides examples of when the union has gone and gotten the city letter carriers back pay. The First Case tackled a "new argument at Step B" situation, where management had introduced a new argument at Step B, and shows the importance of thorough preparation and a strong argument. The Second Case: The second decision focuses on the issue of "hour office time." Corey details the specific circumstances of the case, where management tried to implement a policy of a one-hour office time limit, leading to increased pressure and disciplinary actions against the carriers. The arbitrator ruled in favor of the union, emphasizing that the enforcement of such a policy without proper adherence to the contract violated the agreement and proper time practices. In addition, he discusses the remedy ordered and its impact. He then discussed a few key points from a grievance that could be helpful in any instance. He reviews article one as a base foundation, and violations of section 131 and 41 of the M-41, showing how to request to use the 3996 and how it can be violated. Memos and letters from management are all key for winning in this type of grievance. A main theme is that the union's goal should be a high level of integrity, as well as the importance of, especially in the case of new carriers, knowing what their rights are and not taking what management says at face value. http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/