Sisters and Brothers of the APWU MVS Craft,

 Christmas is over and it’s back to the "norm". As all noticed, our mail volume is far below that of previous years, and continues to decline. It is of utmost importance that we protect what we have in terms of Runs, Trips and so on. We must make every effort to be on time, pick-up all of our mail and equipment at each and every stop we make. Run our runs as scheduled. Many of you have had questions on Over-time! My first suggestion is, if you want overtime sign the Over-time Desired List each Quarter. As stated in the JCAM, a person not on the Over-time Desired List is not contractually entitled to Over-time. We had 10 runs that went Un-bided during our Annual Bid in November. I have initiated a grievance for the PTF'S that are in line to be converted to FTR status lf you are 1-5 on the PTF seniority list and have any questions, fell free to ask me. The remainder of the PTF's on the roster, the same goes for you, any questions, just ask.

 Pertaining to grievances, if you feel that you have a grievance, I need as much information as you can give on the situation. It need to be as detailed as possible and do not omit any details; this can be critical, not only to your credibility, to mine as well.

Again, as I always state, we must come together, as ONE, as a group We will be stronger and able to withstand the on-slaught from the Postal Service in protecting our jobs.

 There are always rumors floating around about the status of our Arbitration awards, as I have said before, as I get information I will relay it to you. It will be true and accurate information. So, unless it comes straight from the horses’ mouth, (me being the horse) come to me and ask me and I will be happy to let you know what I know. It could be a while on these awards. I'm asking that you be patient. These are timely processes.

 I wish all of you a Happy New Year.