The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:05 P.M.  The invocation was given by D. Quattlebaum. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except J. Burton.  J. Ladd moved to add E. Odle to the attendance list for tonight due to a family member being in the hospital.  The motion was seconded by B. Froemel.  Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance lists for the January Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  The Executive Board and Steward Meetings were changed to Wednesday, January 11, 2011.  D. Quattlebaum moved to add T. Magallanes to the Executive Board Attendance List and to add T. Magallanes, H. Steffens and A. Williams to the Steward Attendance List due to the meetings being changed to Wednesday night.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd. Motion carried. T. Chrestman moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the January, 2012, Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  M. Terral announced that Lou DeLeon resigned as Vice President and Steward for Singer Station.  Jesse Johns, Jr., resigned as Steward for Sunset Station.  J. Baca has been appointed Vice President and Steward for Singer and Sunset Stations.  P. Major is now Steward at Louisville (Midwest) Station. 

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Since the November Meeting, the Branch received Christmas cards from National, Region 10 NBA’s Office and J. E. Murfee & Sons Insurance.  (2)  Letter from Lubbock Meals on Wheels thanking the Branch for our donation in memory of Brother David E. Koerner.  (3)  Letter from MCC Foundation at McLennan Community College thanking the Branch for our donation in memory of Gloria Jean Crews, Brother Charles Peterman’s Mother-in-Law.  C. Peterman relayed Amy’s appreciation for the donation and said she wanted to thank everyone. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There were no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – For those of you who are taking Lipitor, there is now a generic that cost $12.00.  If you have not received your new ID card, contact Fernando.  If you are having problems with a new card, we will contact National.  (2) MDA – There is nothing to report.  (3) Political – Eddie is not here, but, Mitch reported that we need to stay on top of the bill extending unemployment benefits, payroll tax cuts, etc.  The original bill eliminated the FERS social security supplement retirees receive, if you retire before you are eligible to draw social security.  It is not in the two month extension the House and Senate passed on December 23, 2011.  We need to make sure it does not get into the final legislation.  Fernando said all active carriers need be in the Thrift Savings Plan.  Also, you need to be contributing to COLCPE; if you do not want to see your benefits disappear.  Mitch said you are throwing away money if you are not at least contributing the matching amount.  You can’t afford not to be in the Thrift Savings Plan.  (4)  Secretary’s Report – P. Polk reported that as of Pay Period 26, 2011, we had 29 Associate Members; 165 regular carriers, 1 PTR, 7 PTF’s, 4 TE’s and 7 members in other crafts for a total of 184 Active Members; 109 retired regular carriers, 16 Life Members (50 years), 1 retired PTF and 10 retirees in other crafts for a total of 136 Retired Members; Total Membership is 349. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Medical Notes – We have printed out some of the medical notes to be used as doctor excuses.  Take it to the doctor.  It is easy to fill out.  He only has to check the appropriate box and sign it.  It has all of the information and the language they are requiring for a doctor’s excuse.  (2)  Election – At the end of the last meeting there was a tie between H. Steffens and C. Peterman for the last delegate slot.  The next day, H. Steffens volunteered to be below C. Peterman, because he doesn’t think he can go. There will not be a runoff.  (3)  Spring School and National Convention – Fernando reported Southwest Airlines has joined the others; you can no longer transfer a ticket you don’t use.  You do have up to one year to use the ticket.  The Branch will purchase your ticket to Houston for the Spring School, if you want.  But, every delegate to the National Convention is responsible for their own airline ticket to Minneapolis, Minnesota. The earlier you purchase your ticket the better.  The Branch cannot issue checks for travel until 45 days before the Convention.  We are paying $450.00 for travel to Minneapolis.  If you wait until the week before to book your flight and have to pay $600.00, you will only receive $450.00. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Guest Speaker – Tara Garza’s husband, Epi Garza, is the guest speaker tonight.  He is running against Senator Duncan for State Senator in District 28.  (2)  Food Drive Coordinator – We need a Food Drive Coordinator this year.  C. Peterman does not want to be the Coordinator this year.  (3) Gift Cards – In the Executive Board Meeting, J. Ramirez, Jr., had an idea to give away gift cards instead of continuing to do the Membership Drawing.  Juan would randomly select a name from the Membership and put a “claim prize” slip in that member’s newsletter.  They will have to attend the next Union Meeting to claim the gift card.  T. Chrestman moved to purchase $100.00 worth of $20.00 gift cards to be used for the drawing.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.  After tonight, we will no longer have a Membership Drawing at the meeting. (4)  Audit – T. Chrestman reported the Trustees did audit the books and they are in fine shape.  (5) 2012 Budget – C. Cooley presented the proposed 2012 Budget to the membership.  T. Chrestman moved to approve the Budget.  Motion seconded by A. Rodriguez.  Motion carried. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) Work Night – T. Chrestman announced there will be a work night after work next Thursday, January 26. (2) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter. T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (3)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (4) $70.00 Membership Drawing – Frankie Valderaz’s name was drawn for January, but he was not present to win.  (5) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Daniel Ramirez won for January.    

Meeting was adjourned at 8:10 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by M. Matthies.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except J. Burton.  J. Baca and J. Johns, Jr., were added to the attendance list tonight due to illnesses.   M. Terral read the attendance list for the November Executive Board and Steward meetings.  M. Links moved to add C. Peterman to the Steward Attendance List.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the November, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Thank you for Expression of Sympathy from the Family of Brother Jimmy Holmes.  (2) Order Form from “Mail Call” for Christmas Thank You Postcards.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no Applications for Membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – Open Season is November 14 through December 12, 2011.  This Open Season is for all Federal Employees regardless of the insurance you now have.   NALC HBP premium for Self is $54.04; up $2.48.  Self and Family is $105.16; up $4.59.  Retiree premium for Self is $161.78; up $1.14. Family is $327.60; up $0.28. The Self Only premium for Transitional Employees (TE) is $260.42 and the Self and Family premium for Transitional Employees (TE) is $565.55. As of January 1, 2012, you will be able to get one month prescriptions filled at Walgreens.  You can still get one, two or three month prescriptions filled at CVS or through mail order.  If you have any questions, call Fernando at 806.239.6560.  (2) Political – The drive for signatures on petitions to save Saturday delivery has been extended two more weeks.  (3) MDA – Nothing to report tonight. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  No unfinished business was brought to the floor.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Inspection – We passed the City of Lubbock Water Quality Inspection.  (2) Plainview – E. Odle is doing Formal A grievances for Plainview now. T. Magallanes moved to pay E. Odle regular steward pay for doing the Formal A grievances for Plainview.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.  (3)  Officer & Steward Pay – C. Cooley read the names of officers and stewards qualified to draw pay. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) Election Results – W. Jumper made the election report.  We are allowed sixteen delegates to the 2012 National Convention.  Mitch Terral, Guadalupe DeLeon, Penny Polk and Craig Cooley are delegates by virtue of their office.  Twenty five ballots were cast.  The following members were elected as delegates:  Juan Baca, Tommy Chrestman, William Froemel, Jesse Johns, Jr., Jeremy Ladd, Michael Links, Tommy Magallanes, Eddie Odle, Juan Ramirez, Jr., Troy Robles, and Fernando Small.  There was a tie between Charles Peterman and Howard Steffens.  (2)  Printer Cartridge – E. Odle purchased a printer ink cartridge.  J. Rivere moved to reimburse E. Odle for the cost of the ink cartridge.  Motion seconded by D. Sieler.  Motion carried. (3) COLCPE – F. Small talked about COLCPE and how important is for everyone to be contributing to COLCPE.  (4)  Veterans – D. Sieler talked about Veterans being honored on Veteran’s Day.  He mentioned Brother David Koerner who recently passed away, and, Brother Joe (Poppa Joe) Parham, who is also deceased.  Don also mentioned Doris Parham, Brother Parham’s widow, who also passed away a few weeks ago.  (5) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter. E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (6)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (7) $60.00 Membership Drawing – Billy Greaves’ name was drawn for November, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $70.00 in January. (7) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – A. Williams won for November.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:41 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by R. Estrada. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except J. Ramirez, Jr., E. Odle and J. Burton.  J. Burton had called to say he would be late due to an emergency at home.  H. Steffens moved to add J. Ramirez, Jr., E. Odle and J. Burton to the attendance list for tonight.  The motion seconded by B. Froemel. Motion carried.  M. Links moved to add J. Baca to the September attendance list due to a death in his family.  Motion seconded by B. Froemel.  Motion carried.  We will also check to see if Lou DeLeon was added last month.  He was on military duty. M. Terral read the attendance list for the October Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  T. Magallanes moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the October, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) The Branch received a Thank You note for expression of sympathy from Sister Ana San Miguel and Family on the death of her father, Armando “Slim” Garcia.   

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) MDA – No report.  (2) HBR – Fernando just returned from the Health Benefits Seminar, but, has not received his information materials at this time.  There is a slight increase in premiums, but, not as much as other companies.  Open Season is coming up, November 14 through December 12, 2011.  There will be booklets available, Personal Health Records, for you to keep all your health information at hand.  You can get one for each family member.  Children under 26 years of age are covered on your policy, even if they are married.  They added Walgreens for prescription drugs.  You still need to use CVS for a 90 day supply of medication.  Flu shots are free at the pharmacy.  There is now a program for smokers who want to quit.  Fernando will attend the Retiree Breakfast with information about NALC HBP and Medicare.  (3) Political – Representative Issa’s Bill, HR 2309, is not expected to pass.  HR 1351 has enough support to pass, but, probably can’t get it out of Committee without a Discharge Petition because Representative Issa is Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and he does not support it.  The new thing now is to save Saturday delivery.  There is a Petition to Save Saturday Delivery on NALC.org.  Print the petition and get your family, neighbors and friends to sign it.  Deadline is November 13^th. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Calendars – C. Cooley announced that he needs all calendar orders and money tonight.  He has a receipt for the money you turned in.   

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Letter Carrier Resource Guide – You should be getting one in the mail. (2)  Route Counts – They will count Sunset and Midwest.  The dry run is Friday and the count starts Saturday.    (3)  Tables and Chairs – If you borrow tables or chairs, you need to sign out for them through Roy Estrada.  Have him meet you here.  We have some missing.  If you borrowed them, please return them.  (4) Receipts – If you went to Vegas or Albuquerque, Craig needs your receipts, now.  (5)  Law Firm – There is a law firm from out of town that specializes in Federal Employee OWCP and Retirement Disability cases.  We have some of their cards and information in the front room.  We are not endorsing them, just letting you know. (6)  Mutual Benefits Association – Mitch went to the Training Seminar in Las Vegas. There will be some information in the Newsletter.   They have a great Annuity Program.  

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Work Night – T. Chrestman announced a work night on Thursday, October 27^th.  Need to finish up ceiling tile. M. Matthies has been working on uniforms.  We still need to straighten up the uniform area.  (2) USPS Federal Credit Union – We have a USPS Credit Union.  Fernando talked with the representative at the Albuquerque School. If you want more information, contact Fernando.  (3) Nomination of Delegates to the 2012 National Convention – The following members were nominated:  Penny Polk; Bill Froemel; Eddie Odle; Michael Links; Mitch Terral; Juan Baca; Don Sieler; Howard J. Steffens; Jesse Johns, Jr.; Troy J. Robles; Jeremy Ladd; Fernando Small; Tommy Chrestman; Alvin Williams; S. Craig Cooley; Tommy Ray Magallanes; Charles Peterman; Juan J. Ramirez, Jr., Guadalupe (Lou) DeLeon; Edward Leaney; and Andy Rodriguez.  This is a total of 21 nominees.  Our By Laws state that the President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer are Delegates by virtue of their office, so their names will not appear on the ballot.  Right now, we are allowed 16 delegates, so we will be voting for 12 additional delegates on Thursday, November 17, 2011, from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. at the Union Hall, 1101 – 31^st, Lubbock, Texas.  Results will be announced at the November 17^th meeting.  (4) COLCPE – Everyone needs to donate to COLCPE.  (5) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (6)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (7)  HBR Seminar – B. Froemel moved to pay M. Terral and F. Small expenses by per diem for attending the HBR Seminar. Motion seconded by B. Jordan.  Motion carried.  (8) $50 Membership Drawing – Ken Quigley’s name was drawn for October, but he was not present to win. This drawing will be for $60.00 next month.  (9) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – D. Sieler won for October.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:55 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:05 P.M.  The invocation was given by B. Jordan.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except T. Robles and L. DeLeon.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the September Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  E. Odle moved to add T. Robles, L. DeLeon and C. Peterman to the attendance list for tonight; add L. DeLeon to the Executive Board Meeting attendance list and L. DeLeon and C. Peterman to the Steward Meeting attendance list.  Motion seconded by J. Burton.  Motion carried.  The Membership watched two videos concerning the future of the USPS and NALC.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the September, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by J. Burton.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  No Communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  No applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: (1) HBR – Nothing new to report.  (2)  MDA – Nothing new to report.  (3) Political Liaison – E. Odle deferred to M. Terral for the political update.  National has set up a meeting at Representative Randy Neugebauer’s office on September 27, 2011, from 4:00 – 5:30 P.M.  This is a nation wide effort at every House of Representative’s office to get them on board to support HR 1351.  We are working with APWU to coordinate the meeting with Representative Neugebauer.  The media will be there and there will be signs.  Notice will go out to all stations.  Petitions will be handed out tonight.  We need to get as many signatures as possible on the petitions asking Representative Neugebauer to support HR 1351.  

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Grievances – Discussed appealing grievances to Formal Step A.  (2)  Calendars – Orders and money for Color Coded Calendars must be turned in at the October Meeting.  (3)  Letterhead and Envelopes – A motion was made last month to have E. Odle order 1000 each letterhead and envelopes from the union printer in Oklahoma.  They are in and the cost was $505.03. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Warrants – We are running low on Warrants.  E. Odle moved to order 1000 three part Warrants from the same printer.  Motion seconded by J. Burton.  Motion carried.  (2)  Election Notice – The Election Notice was printed in the newsletter and should be posted at the stations.  Nominations for Delegates to the 2012 National Convention will be taken at the October Meeting with the election in November.  If you want to be a Delegate, either be here next month or have someone put your name on the nomination list.  The convention is in Minneapolis, MN, July 23-27, 2012. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) COLCPE – Fernando gave a talk on COLCPE.  You are getting a $978 COLA on September 30th and you should be contributing to COLCPE.  (2)  Fall School – Fernando needs to know if you are going and if you are going to fly or drive.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter. E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (4)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is also published in the Newsletter.   (5) Work Night – T. Chrestman announced a work night next Thursday, September 22, after work.  We need to finish the ceiling tile, clean out store rooms and go through uniforms. (6) $40.00 Membership Drawing – Joe E. Newton’s name was drawn for September, but, he was not present to win.  The Membership Drawing will be for $50.00 next month.  (7) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – T. Chrestman won for September.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:48 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Recording Secretary

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:05 P.M.  The invocation was given by H. Steffens.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the August Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  E. Leaney moved to add J. Burton to the Executive Board Attendance List and M. Links to the Steward Attendance List.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the August, 2011, Newsletter. Motion seconded by T. Chrestman. Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  There are no communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – There is no report.  (2)  MDA – Nothing to report.  T. Chrestman moved to donate $500.00 to MDA.  Motion seconded by D. Sieler.  Motion carried. (3) Political – E. Odle reminded everyone to read your E-Activist and stay informed.  You may have heard the Postal Service is trying to get around collective bargaining, lay off workers and get out of FEHBP.  Call your Representative and tell him or her to oppose the Postal Service's proposals to downsize its workforce through layoffs, to gut employees' health and pension benefits or reduce our bargaining rights without negotiations. Tell your Representative to support HR 1351 and to co-sponsor HR 1351.  A short, hand written letter is even better.  One letter is worth 15 phone calls or e-mails.  We watched a clip, “Rights of U.S. Postal Workers Under Attack,” from MSNBC’s “The Ed Show.”  The clip tells the truth about the USPS finances. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) TV Programming – After reviewing prices for Direct TV, we decided the service is too expensive for the time we would be watching.  Service costs more because we are considered a business. And, the basic packages don’t have sports channels.  We will hook up an antenna and see what we can pick up.  (2)  Air Conditioner – Last month a motion was made to spend up to $3,000.00 for a new compressor.  It only cost $1600.00 to replace the compressor.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Envelopes and Letterhead – We are almost out of envelopes and getting low on Letterhead.  P. Polk moved that E. Odle purchase 1000 envelopes and letterhead from the union printer in Oklahoma.  Motion seconded by J. Nesmith.  Motion carried. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) Work Night – T. Chrestman announced that there will be a work night on August 25, after work.  There is a lot to do.  (2)  Color Coded Calendars – Calendar orders are to be turned in at the September meeting.  Craig made order forms for the stewards at each station.  It will help a lot if the stewards deposit the money they collect and give Craig a check made out to the Branch.  A money order would work, too.  Calendars will be paid for up front.  No exceptions.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as presented in the August Newsletter.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.  (4)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.   (5) $30.00 Membership Drawing – Danny J. Serrano’s name was drawn for August, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $40.00 next month.  (6) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – J. Ladd won for August.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:48 P.M. 

Respectfully submitted,

Recording Secretary

JULY 21, 2011 

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:02 P.M.  The invocation was given by J. Narin. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except F. Small, J. Burton and T. Magallanes, who were all added to the attendance list tonight due to illness.  M. Links moved to add H. Steffens to the attendance list for tonight.  Motion seconded by E. Odle. Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance lists for the July 14, 2011, Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the July, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  There are no communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have an application for membership:  Lester Earl Williams.  E. Odle moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – There is no report at this time.  (2) MDA – J. Ladd doesn’t have anything new to report.  (3)  Political – E. Odle reported that the biggest thing going on at this time is the debt ceiling.  (4)  Audit – T. Chrestman reported that the Trustees did audit the books and they are fine. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) TV – Mitch reported that he checked to see if U-verse was available in our area.  It is not. F. Small will get in touch with AT&T about getting the TV hooked up.  It will still be with a Union company and we can bundle the service.  E. Odle moved that we give E. Leaney his $5.00 back.  E. Leaney indicated he did not want his $5.00 back.  Motion seconded by B. Froemel.  Motion carried. (2) Secretary/Editor Office Computer – The computer in that office completely quit. Fernando bought a new computer with his own money.  E. Odle moved to reimburse F. Small $368.03 for the computer.  Motion seconded by M. Links.  Motion carried. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Travel – M. Terral had to go to Muleshoe.  E. Odle moved to pay Mitch mileage for a round trip to Muleshoe.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried. (2) L/M Meeting – M. Terral reported on the Labor/Management Meeting this week.  It should be posted at the stations tomorrow.  (a) Service, Safety and Customer Connect talks will not be given over the PA.  It is OK to give two minute drills over the PA.  (b) Management at Monterey is sending carriers text messages.  This will stop.  Management is not to text carriers.  (c)  The church by Freedom Station put open barrels of oil outside. It smells horrible in the parking lot. Anthony will contact the church about putting lids on them or getting rid of them.  (d)  Last week, a carrier at Downtown Station stepped on a used hypodermic needle.  It did not stick him, but, easily could have.  What is the procedure if this should happen or if you see a hypodermic needle on the ground?  Ty Howard will send out protocol for this and we will have safety talks on the issue.  (3) JARAP – Downtown has been adjusted.  Freedom is next.  Littlefield is done.  Muleshoe is done.  Abernathy and Morton were pulled.  (4)  Windshield Shades – L. DeLeon reported that Sonia said they really needed windshield shades for military vehicles in Kuwait.  The Executive board recommended that we purchase windshield shades and send them to Kuwait.  E. Odle moved to purchase 10 windshield shades and send them to Kuwait under the condition that Sonia gets one of them.  Motion seconded by B. Froemel.  Motion Carried.  L. DeLeon will take care of it.  We will ask the Postmaster to pay the postage.  (5)  Air Conditioner – We replaced the air conditioner all except for the compressor.  The 2½ ton unit was replaced with a 3 ton unit that uses Puron. But, we still have the old 2½ ton compressor and it can’t keep up.  It was the recommendation of the Executive Board to get prices on a compressor.  E. Odle moved that we pay up to $3,000.00 on a new compressor.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) COLCPE – M. Terral gave the talk on COLCPE.  Everyone should be contributing to COLCPE.  E. Odle reminded the membership that we are set up make contributions to COLCPE on-line here at the Union Hall.  You need your pin number.  (2) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  (3)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (4) $20.00 Membership Drawing – W. Jumper’s name was drawn for July, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $30.00 next month.  (5) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – J. Ladd won for July.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:25 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by B. Jordan.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except L. DeLeon.  He is on Military Duty.  A. Williams had to work late tonight.  Last month E. Leaney and J. Baca missed due to medical reasons.  E. Odle moved to add L. DeLeon and A. Williams the attendance list for tonight and to add E. Leaney and J. Baca to the attendance list for the May 19, 2011, Union Meeting.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance lists for the June Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  J. Baca moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the June, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  No Communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  No applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – F. Small reported that you should have received, or soon will receive new ID Cards.  Please swap the new cards with the old one.  More information will be coming in the future.  (2)  Political – E. Odle reported there are now three bills out that concern the Postal Service.  The bill numbers are S1010 and HR1351.  Don’t have number for third one, yet.  We support HR1351.  You need to let your Representatives know.  You need to give to COLCPE.  E. Odle heard that Congressman Neugebauer will consider supporting HR1351.  E. Odle would like for some of us to go his office to talk with him or to call him and encourage him to support this bill.  F. Small also spoke on how important it is to donate to COLCPE.  (3) MDA – J. Ladd reported that MDA has not returned his phone calls.  Jeremy further reported that the Postal Employees’ Relief Fund is running short on funds because of the fires, tornadoes and floods across the country.  Jeremy suggested having a fund raiser for the PERF.  (4)  Convention Reports – P. Polk reported that the Auditing Committee found the books to be in order.  M. Terral announced that E. Leaney won a big drawing for a big screen TV.  He donated it to the Branch.  Brother Leaney received a round of applause.  We have other services with AT& T and will contact them to see about getting the TV hooked up.  F. Small gave the election report.  Mickey Morris was elected President with 8691 votes over Gary Mullins 5990 votes.  Vice President:  Brad Ramey 7461 votes; Ethel Ford 5037 votes;  Marian Ware 2074 votes.  Secretary:  Sharon Rucker 11,431; Sue Tarrant 2,886.  Treasurer:  Benny Lloyd elected by acclimation. Director of Retirees:  Hector Salinas elected by acclimation.   District 1 Board Member:  Nikki Johnson 3,051; Tina McGee 1,127; Irma Salinas 809.  District 2: John Bamford 2,670; Rita Wilder 1,283. District 3:  Edie Odle elected by acclimation. District 4:  Ron Eudy elected by acclimation. District 5: Jimmy Reyna elected by acclimation. District 6: Mike Lee elected by acclimation. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  No unfinished business was brought to the floor.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Political – Raymond Bullard will hold a meet and greet to share ideas and begin to plan for the future.  Open House will be held 7:00 P.M., July 8, 2011, Branch 132, 8451 Endicott Lane, Dallas, Texas.  (2)  Plainview – We will be meeting with Plainview Carriers off the clock on Wednesday, June 29, 2011.  Not sure what time. (3) Service Talk – If you heard a service talk about the Postal Service suspending payments to FERS, they are still matching your contributions.  They have a surplus, so they are suspending payment, temporarily.  If they would fix our prefunding, the Postal Service wouldn’t be broke.  There are no plans for five day delivery at this time.  If some of your co-workers are in favor of five day delivery because they think they will get Saturday off, they are wrong.  The off day will be Tuesday or Wednesday.  If we go to five day delivery, you won’t ever get another Saturday off. (4)  Air Conditioner – The front office air conditioner went out, again.  The Executive Board recommended replacing it as soon as possible, as it was an emergency situation.  T. Chrestman moved to purchase a new air conditioner and have it installed.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  (5) Time Clock Moves – Management cannot move you or order you to move off of office time when you are having standup talks.  It is still your office time.  To move to 782, they have to actually be in a training session and have a docket number.  Do not move to 743 to do MNO’s.  That is an office function.  Some managers are not giving carriers time to do MNO’s until they have a lot of them and then they tell the carrier to move to 743, which is for working on labels and red book, only.  If management does not give you time to do MNO’s when you have requested time for a couple of days, ask for your shop steward.  (6) JARAP – We have the zones for JARAP – Presently – COR Adjustment at Sunset and Manual Adjustment at all zones Downtown.  Also, Muleshoe, Littlefield, Morton and Abernathy are having Manual Adjustments.  Next round upcoming – COR Adjustments at Singer and Freedom zones 12 and 23, and Manual Adjustments at Freedom zone 04.  No adjustments at Midwest and Monterey.  (7)  3996’s – We discussed filling out 3996’s.  List all reasons for going into overtime on your 3996.  It is an estimate.  Use your best judgment.  If you need to adjust with a PM 3996 when you return to the office, do so.  Just because Management tells you there is under time on your route, doesn’t mean there is.  If there is, give it to them.  If not, do not skip your breaks or lunch or neglect some of your duties to finish in the time they tell you. (8)  COLCPE – E. Odle gave an update on COLCPE.  Everything is set up to donate over the computer.  Eddie will help you do it.  You need your pin number.  (9)  Rap Session – E. Odle is going to the 2011 National Rap Session in Las Vegas in October.  J. Ladd moved to pay expenses for E. Odle to attend the Rap Session.  Motion seconded by J. Burton.  Motion carried.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (2)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (3)  Cool Collars – J. Burton has cool collars for sale for $2.00 each. (4) $10.00 Membership Drawing – Cecil A. Armstrong’s name was drawn for June, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $20.00 next month.  (5) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – J. Baca won for June.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:55 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Penny Polk,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by Eddie Odle at 7:00 P.M.  E. Odle announced that M. Terral cannot attend the meeting tonight and L. DeLeon is on Military Duty.  T. Chrestman moved to have E. Odle preside over this meeting.  Motion was seconded by A. Rodriguez. There were no objections. Motion carried. The invocation was given by R. Estrada.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken. All officers were present except, L. DeLeon, J. Burton, M. Terral and T. Magallanes.  T. Chrestman moved to add L. DeLeon, M. Terral and T. Magallanes to the attendance list for tonight.  Motion seconded by D. Villalobos.  Motion carried.  B. Froemel moved to add J. Baca to the April 21, 2011, meeting due to medical reasons.  The motion was seconded by R. Estrada.  Motion carried. E. Odle read the attendance lists for the May Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  T. Chrestman moved to add L. DeLeon to both the Executive Board Meeting and Steward Meeting Lists because he is on Military Duty.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.  J. Ladd moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the May, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by A. Rodriguez.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1)  Thank you for expression of sympathy and acknowledgment of donation to the Senior Citizens Center of Stanton, Texas, in memory of J. D. Edmonson, Brother Billy Edmonson’s brother.  (2)  Acknowledgment from the VFW National Home for Children in memory of Brother T. R. Dykes of Plainview.  (3)  JUNE UNION MEETING – The June Union Meeting has been moved to the fourth Thursday, June 23, 2011, because of the State Convention.  Delegate cards and checks will be handed out after tonight’s meeting. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – Fernando Small is the new Health Benefits Representative.  P. Polk will notify National.  (2) MDA – J. Ladd reported that we cannot have a skeet shoot.  MDA’s insurance will not cover that many people.  They may be able to help us get some rifles for a raffle.  We will look into getting SW Airline tickets to raffle.  (3) NALC Food Drive – C. Peterman said the Food Drive went great, even though we were down a little.  The last count was 55,000 pounds.  It probably has not all been counted.  C. Peterman will check with the SP Food Bank to see if they have any room to store the bags and other things associated with the Food Drive.  We don’t have the room here.  (4)  Political – E. Odle reported that we will be going to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, May 24, 2011.  Three Congressmen have agreed to meet with them.  Eddie will look into setting up some letter writing campaigns. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Audit – E. Odle reported that there was only one word on his note in regard to the Texas Workforce Commission Audit…Perfect!  There was a round of applause for Craig Cooley.  (2)  COLCP – Computer Signup – E. Odle reported we were successful in signing up J. Ladd on the computer tonight.  If you want to sign up after the meeting, see Fernando Small.  (3)  JARAP – We are waiting to see which zones are chosen.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Freedom – Postal Inspectors are watching.  Be careful.  Do everything you are supposed to do the right way every day. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) COLCPE – C. Cooley read Brother Mickey Morris’ column on COLCPE.  J. Ladd also spoke on COLCPE and how important it is for everyone to contribute.  (2) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  B. Froemel moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by A. Rodriguez.  The Motion carried.  (3)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter. (4) Work Night – T. Chrestman announced a work night on Thursday, May 26, 2011. (5)  Retiree Breakfast – Retiree Breakfast is Saturday, May 28, 2011.  Come early! (6)  Editor Items – If there are announcements or celebrations you want published in the Newsletter, let J. J. know.  If someone is retiring, let him know…get him a picture.  Or, if someone passes away, we will put a memorial in the Newsletter.  Just let J. J. know. (7) $130 Membership Drawing - Ismael Zorola’s name was drawn and he is present.  Congratulations!  This drawing will be for $10.00 next month.  (8) $15.00 Attendance Drawing - T. Chrestman won for May.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:32 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:06 P.M.  The invocation was given by H. Steffens.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except J. Ramirez, Jr., L. Deleon and J. Burton.  E. Odle moved to add C. Peterman to the attendance list for tonight due to a death in the family.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd. Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the April Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  T. Chrestman moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the April, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Letter – D. Sieler will be unable to attend the TSALC Convention in June.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: (1) Political – E. Odle reported we will be going to Washington, D.C., May 24-26, 2011.  Eddie called Congressman Neugebauer’s office and was told right away that the Congressman would not meet with him.  Congressmen Conaway and Thornberry usually do.  When he called Congressman Conaway’s office, he was told the schedule has not been made.   (2) HBR – There is nothing new to report concerning the Health Benefits Plan.  E. Odle informed the membership that he would have to resign as HBR.  F. Small and J. Ladd are interested in being the Health Benefits Representative.  If anyone else is interested, let Mitch know.  He will appoint someone next month.  (3) MDA – J. Ladd has talked to the MDA Coordinator about doing a skeet shoot.  We also would like to raffle off a couple of rifles.  Jeremy will be check with some gun shops in Lubbock to see if anyone is interested in donating rifles.  Mitch reminded the membership that we also have some very old postal shirts to raffle off.  It would be nice if Jeremy could come to the next Executive Board Meeting.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Plumber – T. Magallanes reported he sent Mitch the name of a union plumber.  We need a volunteer to call plumbers and get estimates.  (2)  Lock – D. Sieler observed the side door lock has been damaged.  T. Chrestman noticed it, also, and thinks we need to call Lubbock Lock & Key.  T. Magallanes moved to call Lubbock Lock & Key and get someone out here to look at it.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.   

NEW BUSINESS: (1) Audit – We are getting audited by the Texas Workforce Commission on May 10^th at 9:30 A.M.  We believe it is probably a routine audit.  (2) JARAP – The new JARAP Agreement for 2011 does include a joint agreement stating that the work hour/work load report will be posted every day at every office for the day before.  It should be posted by the time clock or on the bulletin board.  You need to check your route everyday.  Details are on the website.  They will be using COR for adjustments.  They have changed how they look at 3999’s.  They have to take the one closest to the average time.  (3)  Auxiliary 1064 Dues – The Auxiliary has requested that we pay their State and National Dues, as we usually do.  The total is $117.00.  The Executive Board recommended that we do so.  T. Chrestman moved we pay the Auxiliary Dues.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.      

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Work Night – T. Chrestman announced there will be a work night next Thursday, April 28^th.  You can make up a meeting with two work nights.  (2)  Retiree Breakfast – D. Sieler announced the Retiree Breakfast on Saturday, April 30, 2011.  You might get to hear Burl Bowerman’s band play. (3) Retirement – If you are planning to retire soon, Mitch pointed out that it is currently taking between 8 and 9 months for OPM to finalize your paperwork.  You only draw partial retirement during that time.  If you retire under FERS before you are old enough to draw Social Security, you will also receive a Social Security Supplement, based on years of service, until you are eligible for Social Security.  But, you will not receive one cent of this supplement until OPM has finalized your retirement paperwork. (4)  COLCPE – F. Small reported that we need more people to donate to COLCPE.  We have retirees who are signing up.  They are donating money out of their retirement to protect your jobs.  COLCPE is job insurance.  You need to contribute.  What happened in Wisconsin can happen here.  E. Odle said there seems to be difficulty signing up for COLCPE online.  He will take care of that.  C. Cooley reported he didn’t have any trouble increasing his contribution using LiteBlue.  Craig also stated that he is now a lowly PTF and if he can increase his contribution, everyone else can afford to contribute. (5) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the April Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.  (6) Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.   (7) $120.00 Membership Drawing – Michael C. LaVere’s name was drawn for April, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $130.00 next month.  (8) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – G. Fisher won for April.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:40 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by H. Steffens.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except J. Burton and T. Magallanes.  E. Odle moved to add J. Baca and T. Magallanes to the attendance list for tonight.  Motion seconded by T. Chrestman. Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the Executive Board and Steward meetings.  E. Odle moved to add T. Magallanes to the Executive Board Meeting List and to add M. Links and T. Magallanes to the Steward Meeting List.  Motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the March, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  No communications were reported.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) MDA – M. Terral announced that J. Ladd has agreed to be the MDA Coordinator.  (2)  HBR – E. Odle reported that we had an increase of over 5,000 members to the NALC Health Benefit Plan during open season.  If you are having any problems, let Eddie know.  Most problems can be resolved with a three-way phone call.  (3)  Political Liaison – E. Odle reported that we will be going to Washington, D.C., May 24-26, 2011.  National wanted us there on Tuesday.  (4)  District Three Meeting – The District Three Meeting is Sunday, April 10, 2011, in Childress, Texas.  The class will be on unrest and turmoil in the workplace.  (5)  State Convention – There is nothing new to report on the convention.  They are still working out some details.  The State Convention may be in Abilene next time.  (6)  Secretary’s Report – P. Polk gave a report on membership as of the end of pay period 26/2010.  We had 24 associate members; 190 active members and 132 retirees for a total membership of 346.  Two carriers have retired since then. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  No unfinished business was brought to the floor.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Food Drive Posters – C. Peterman would like to purchase Food Drive Posters to put in schools and businesses.  It will cost $25.00.  T. Chrestman so moved.  Motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (2)  Ceiling Tile – T. Chrestman reported we have run out of tile.  We need to finish two offices in the front of the building and there is a little bit that needs to be finished in the back of the Hall.  E. Odle moved to purchase six boxes of ceiling tile.  Motion seconded by M. Links.  After some discussion, E. Odle amended his motion to purchase enough ceiling tile to finish the two offices, finish replacing the tile in the Union Hall and have a few extra.  M. Links accepted the amendment.  Motion carried. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) Work Night – T. Chrestman announced a Work Night next Thursday, March 24, 2011. (2) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper. Motion carried.  (3)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter. (4)  Carrier Working Late – It was brought to the attention of the membership that I. Zorola is working late tonight.  E. Odle moved to add I. Zorola to the attendance list for tonight. Motion seconded by J. Ladd. Motion carried.  (5)  COLCPE – F. Small gave a report on COLCPE.  Everyone needs to be contributing to COLCPE.  They are fighting to keep your jobs.  (6)  Refreshments – T. Robles reported that he is only authorized to spend a total of $75.00 per month to purchase food and refreshments for the Executive Board Meeting, Steward Meeting and the Union Meeting.  It was a recommendation of the Executive Board that T. Robles be authorized to spend up to $150.00 per month for food/refreshments for the meetings.  E. Odle so moved.  Motion seconded by R. Estrada.  Motion carried.  (7)  Retiree’s Breakfast – B. Bowerman announced the Retiree’s Breakfast will be Saturday, March 26, 2011.  Everyone is welcome.  It usually starts about 6:30 A.M.  (8) $110.00 Membership Drawing – Gary W. Howard’s name was drawn for March, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $120.00 next month.  (9) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – H. Steffens won for March.  

Meeting was adjourned a 7:35 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by Vice-President Lou DeLeon at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by R. Estrada. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except M. Terral and F. Small.  E. Odle moved to add J. Baca, J. Ladd, S. DeLeon and F. Small to the attendance list for tonight.  The motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.  L. DeLeon read the attendance list for the February Executive Board and Steward meetings.  E. Odle moved to add L. DeLeon and J. Burton to the Executive Board list.  Motion seconded by D. Villalobos.  Motion carried.  T. Magallanes moved to add H. Steffens and L. DeLeon to the Steward list.  Motion seconded by A. Williams.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the February, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  There are no communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – Eddie Odle reported there is not much going on right now.  The new Director has taken over.  If you have a problem, call Eddie.  He has been successful setting up three-way calling to resolve problems by phone. (2)  Legislative – E. Odle reported that we will be going to DC in May, 2011.  We don’t know the dates for sure.  We will probably find out at the Spring School.  (3) State Convention – There is nothing new to report.  (4)  MDA – We need an MDA Representative.  P. Polk reported that the Executive Board discussed fund raisers for MDA. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  No unfinished business was brought to the floor.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Busted Water Pipes – Water pipes busted during the freezing weather.  We had to call a plumber.  R. Estrada moved to pay $290.00 for plumbing repair.  Motion seconded by T. Robles.  Motion carried.  (2) Water Lines – All of the water lines need to be replaced.  Dr. Plumber will submit a bid.  We need two more bids, if you know of a good plumber.  T. Magallanes will check to see if there are Union Plumbers in Lubbock.  E. Odle suggested calling the Electricians Union for that information.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – C. Cooley spoke on investing in COLCPE to protect our jobs.  We need to support the people who support us.  You can do this for 50¢ a day! Money talks…you need to sign up.  If you are contributing to COLCPE and your name is not on the list, contact F. Small.  (2) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper. The motion carried.  (3)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (4) Work Night Next Thursday – T. Chrestman announced there will be a work night Thursday, February 24, 2011, about 6:00 P.M.  (5) Food Drive – C. Peterman reminded carriers at AO’s to contact him, if you want to participate in the Food Drive.  (6) $100.00 Membership Drawing – Joe E. Newton’s name was drawn for February, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $110.00 next month.  (7) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Tommy Ray Magallanes won for February.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:28 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:06 P.M.  The invocation was given by H. Steffens.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present, except E. Odle.  J. Ladd moved to add J. Baca to the attendance list for tonight.  The motion seconded by J. Burton. Motion carried.  E. Odle was also added to the list for tonight, due to illness.  J. Johns, Jr., called.  He will be late. M. Terral read the attendance list for the January Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  J. Burton moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the January, 2011, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper. Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Christmas card from J. E. Murfee & Son.  (2) Thank you note from Gary Mullins.  (3) Thank you for Expression of Sympathy from the family of Robert (Bookie) Deary.  (4) Thank you for Expression of Sympathy from the family of Jimmy Chavez. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership:  Rodolfo (Rudy) Garcia.  T. Magallanes moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBP – E. Odle is not here so there is no report.  (2)  State Convention – Eddie sent an update on the State Convention in Tyler, Texas, June 15-17, 2011.  Wednesday is MDA Day with an 8:00 A.M. Golf Tournament.  Convention starts at 1:00 P.M.  A Bowl-a-Thon starts at 7:00 P.M.  Proceeds from the Golf Tournament and Bowl-a-Thon go to MDA.  They are working on a Welcome Night.  Early Registration is $60.00 by May 15^th; $70.00 at the door.  Thursday is Family Night.  They are working on lunch for Thursday.  There is nothing close.  The Convention Center is five miles from the hotels.  There are restaurants close to the hotels.  NBA is thinking about putting on a training session on Tuesday.  A. Williams, P. Polk and M. Terral are on committees.  J. Ladd is an alternate.  (3) Flower/Memorial Committee – Penny Polk is the new contact person for the Flower/Memorial Committee.  If you know of the death of a Branch member or one of his/her immediate family, tell your shop steward or contact Penny Polk at 806-791-3409 or 806-790-0890.  (4)  MDA – We do not have a MDA Representative.  We need one.  (5)  Food Drive – The Food Drive is the second Saturday in May. C. Peterman is the coordinator.  If you want to help, contact C. Peterman.  If you are in one of the AO’s and you are going to participate, let Charles know so he can get the post cards to you.  Levelland and Plainview usually participate.  Let him know by next meeting. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Steward Training – We will set up steward training.  It will be open to anyone who wants to come. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Proposed 2011 Budget – Copies of the proposed budget for 2011 have been passed out.  The Budget Committee put it together and the Executive Board recommended approval.  T. Chrestman moved to accept the Proposed Budget for 2011.  Motion seconded by J. Burton.  Motion passed.   The Budget is accepted.  C. Cooley thanked the other members of the Budget Committee, T. Chrestman, T. Magallanes, J. Burton, F. Small and M. Terral, for their work in putting the budget together.  (2) Audit Committee – T. Chrestman said they audited the books and they were in fine shape.  (3)  Flowers – Danny Vasquez’s funeral was on a Saturday.  C. Cooley didn’t find out about the funeral in time to order the flowers on Friday.  The shop we usually order from was closed Saturday.  Craig paid for flowers out of his pocket and would like to be reimbursed.  T. Chrestman so moved.  H. Steffens seconded the motion.  Motion carried.   

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – F. Small talked about how important it is to contribute to COLCPE.  Retirees are giving more than active carriers.  You need to give to protect your job.  C. Cooley and D. Quattlebaum also spoke about why it is so important to give to COLCPE and to support the NALC.  (2)  Retirees Breakfast – D. Sieler reminded the membership that the Retirees Breakfast is the last Saturday of the month.  Even if you are not retired, if you are off that day, come on down.  It is a lot of fun.  (3)  Contract CD – Fernando has the Contract DC’s ready for the Stewards.  (4) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  (5)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s is published in the Newsletter.  (6)  Work Night – T. Chrestman announced there will be a work night next Thursday, January 27, 2011.  (7)  February Spring School – Fernando has made the room and flight reservations for the school next month.  C. Cooley announced you will get your checks at the next meeting.   (8) Door Prizes – Randy Patterson, with Roy Tailors Uniform Company, donated two knit caps to give away tonight as door prizes.  The winners were Mitch Terral and Tommy Magallanes. (9) $90.00 Membership Drawing – Terry Simmons’ name was drawn for January, but she was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $100.00 next month.  (10) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – C. Peterman won for January.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:46 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:05 P.M.  The invocation was given by H. Steffens.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except P. Majors. M. Terral read the attendance list for the November Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the November, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Thank you for expression of sympathy from the family of Dorothy Grace Cravens, Penny Polk’s mother.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership:  Tyrone DuBose II.  T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by J. Burton.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – Eddie Odle reminded everyone that Open Season is November 8 through December 13, 2010.  Eddie handed out information sheets. You can change your plan on USPS Liteblue.   liteblue.usps.gov  (2)  Political – There isn’t anything new to report.  We are planning to go to Washington D.C. next year.  (3)  MDA – M. Terral reported that he was the only carrier that showed up for the MDA Bowl-a-thon.  It was very disappointing.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) City v Rural – Eddie Odle has done a lot more work on City v. Rural.  It was the recommendation of the Executive Board to pay him $800.00.  J. Burton moved to pay E. Odle $800.00 for work he has done on City v Rural.  Motion seconded by C. Peterman.  Motion carried.  (2)  Appreciation Gift – Gary Mullins will be here to install our officers.  It was the recommendation of the Executive Board to purchase a Tractor Supply Gift Card for Gary Mullins.  T. Chrestman so moved.  Motion seconded by D. Sieler.  Motion carried. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Calendars – The calendars are in and will be distributed tonight.  Craig Cooley thanked everyone for their cooperation.  (2)  Computers, etc – We need to get rid of some computers, a printer, and other office equipment.  Make a bid.  J. Johns, Jr., purchased the complete computer set up for $50.00.  J. Ramirez, Jr., purchased a printer for $20.00.     

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) COLCPE – Fernando gave a talk on COLCPE.  Everyone needs to contribute.  You are donating money to defend yourself and your job.  (2)  Christmas Party – The Christmas Party is 7:00 P.M., Saturday, December 11, 2010, at the Union Hall.  It is Pot Luck.  There will be piñatas for the kids.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.  (4)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (5) Budget Committee – The Budget Committee will meet at 6:30 P.M. on Thursday, December 9, 2010, at the Union Hall.  The Budget Committee is the President, Treasurer, Financial Secretary and the three Trustees. (6)  Spring School – The Spring School will be February 19-20, 2011, in Houston.  If you are going to fly, see Fernando immediately following the meeting.  (7) $80.00 Membership Drawing – Mike Matthies’ name was drawn for November, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $90.00 in January.  (8) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – D. Sieler won for November.  (9)  Installation Banquet – The Banquet is Saturday night.  We will set up tables and decorate after the meeting tonight.

Meeting was adjourned at 7:51 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:04 P.M.  The invocation was given by J. Crowder.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except J. Burton and P. Majors.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the October Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  M. Links moved to add J. Baca and L. DeLeon to the Steward Meeting Attendance List.  Motion seconded by E. Odle. Motion Carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the October, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by L. DeLeon.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  There are no communications to report to the membership.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle reported that he has had success with three way calls between members and National.  If you have a question or have a problem, give Eddie a call. Open Season is November 8, 2010, to December 14, 2010.  There was limited information on the HBP web site about premiums.  High Option Self Only for Postal Employees is $51.56 by-weekly.  Self and Family is $100.57 by-weekly.  Retiree Self and Family is $327.32.  (2)  Political –There was a Bill White Rally at the Court House.  Joe Heflin will be in town. Andy Wilson is running against Representative Neugebauer.  Early voting has started.  National wants us to go to D. C. in April or May 2011.  (3) 2011 Texas State Convention – The COP meeting will be in Tyler, Texas, on January 8, 2011.  Eddie will be drawing names from the list of delegates to serve on committees.  The Convention is in Tyler, Texas, June 15-17, 2011.  They are planning a Welcome Night around the Pool.  A lunch is scheduled on Thursday, June 16.  The Convention Hotel is the Holiday Inn.  The rate is $89.00.  There are a lot of hotels around the area.  The Convention will be at the Convention Center.  It is not within walking distance of any hotel.  We are supposed to get discounted rates for the Rose Garden Museum.  NBA is talking about having training classes Tuesday and Wednesday morning.  They are still putting together Golf Tournaments, etc. There probably will not be a banquet.  (4)  MDA – Special Guests, Randi and Ashley, from MDA are with us tonight with more information on the Bowl-A-Thon.  It will be Sunday, November 7^th at Main Event.  The Kick-Off is scheduled for 1:00 P.M.   There will be teams of four bowlers; the team captain and three other bowlers.  It is $15.00 for each bowler.  Sponsorships are $50.00.  Sponsors will be recognized at the Bowl-a-Thon. There will be a prize for the team that brings in the most money.  Leagues that bowl at Main Event will participate.  Teams are not limited to Postal Employees.  All money raised stays in West Texas. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Installation Banquet – The Installation Banquet will be Saturday, November 20, 2010, at 7:00 P.M., at the Union Hall.  Members of NALC Branch 2589 and one guest are invited.  Cathy’s Downtown will cater the Banquet.  The menu will be your choice of Filet Mignon or Roasted Cornish Hen with Roasted Red Potatoes, Broccoli Carrots and Cauliflower Mix.  Desserts will be your choice of Italian Cream Cake, German Chocolate Cake or Cobbler.  (2)  Calendars – Tonight is the deadline for ordering calendars.  C. Cooley expressed his appreciation to the Steward or member in charge of calendars at each station for getting the orders and money turned in tonight.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Request for Information – We discussed the procedure for requesting information for grievances, especially for Freedom and Downtown Stations.  (2)  Unauthorized Overtime – Unauthorized overtime was discussed again.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) Work Night – There will be a work night next week on October 28, 2010.  There is a lot of work to do on the building.  (2)  Nomination of 2011-2012 Officer and Delegates to 2011 Texas State Convention:  President, Mitch Terral; Vice President, Lou DeLeon; Recording Secretary, Penny Polk; Financial Secretary, Fernando Small; Treasurer, Craig Cooley; Editor, Juan J. Ramirez, Jr.; Sgt at Arms, Troy Robles; HBR, Eddie Odle; Trustees:  Tommy Chrestman, Jeff Burton and Tommy Magallanes.  All officers were elected by acclamation.   Delegates to the 2011 Texas State Convention were also elected by acclamation.  The Delegates are:  P. Polk; T. Chrestman; E. Odle; M. Terral; F. Small; A. Williams; C. Peterman; A. Rodriguez; B. Froemel; T. Magallanes; E. Leaney; M. Links; J. Ladd; J. J. Ramirez, Jr.; D. Sieler; H. Steffens; T. Robles, and S. C. Cooley.  There will be no election this year. (3) Financial Secretary and Treasurer Reports – C. Cooley read the bills and the Treasurer’s Report.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as read.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (4)  Adobe Program – F. Small reported that he purchased the new computer for under $400.00.  We need to purchase Adobe Programs that will allow stewards to make changes to PDF files and save them.  It will be about $300.00 plus tax.  E. Odle moved to purchase the needed Adobe Programs for $300.00 plus tax.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried. (5)  COLCPE – F. Small and C. Cooley both spoke on the importance of contributing to COLCPE.  It is your job insurance.  You are donating to defend your job.  Fernando has direct deposit forms, if you are active and have used your allotment slots or if you are retired.  (6)  Meals - E. Odle moved to order 60 meals for the Installation Banquet from Cathy’s Downtown Catering.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried. (7) $70.00 Membership Drawing – J. C. Armstrong’s name was drawn for October, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $80.00 next month. 

(8) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – C. Peterman won for October.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:16 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

SEPTEMBER 16, 2010 

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:02 P.M.  The invocation was given by J. Burton. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except P. Majors.  T. Garza was added to the attendance list for tonight.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the September Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  E. Odle moved to add J. Ramirez, Jr., and J. Burton to Attendance List for the September Executive Board Meeting.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the September, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried. 

SPECIAL GUEST:  Brother Shawn Boyd from the Dallas Branch is with us tonight.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) The Branch received a Thank You for Expression of Sympathy from the family of Mr. Finis Wright, Brother Mitch Terral’s father-in-law. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle reported his new phone has been beneficial in assisting members of the HBP.  NALC HBP Convention Shirts are available.  They are $28.00 each. Let Eddie know if you want one.  (2)  Political – In addition to the $75 billion that was overpaid through CSRS, the latest NALC Bulletin informs us that OPM has overcharged FERS $6.8 billion!  There is no need to go to a five day delivery to save the Postal Service money.  We hope everyone saw the ad APWU placed in the Lubbock A-J. (2)  MDA – There is a sign up sheet for the Bowl-a-thon in each station.  We all need to talk this up.  It is not restricted to NALC members or employees of the Postal Service.  Anyone can participate.  The Team Captains need to sign up. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Convention Delegates – C. Cooley reported several delegates to the National Convention have not turned in their hotel receipts.  These must be turned in or you will owe the Branch $1000.00.  (2)  Overtime – Discussed unauthorized overtime.  (3)  Fall School – If you are going to the Fall School next month, see Fernando immediately after the meeting. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Tubs – Some stations have instructed carriers to take everything out of their vehicles at the end of the day.  Three tubs are to be in the LLV at all times.  This policy has not changed.  (2) Calendars – C. Cooley announced it is time to order Color Coded Calendars.  They will be $3.75 each, if the branch orders 250 calendars.  There will be a sign up sheet at each station.  You must pay when you order your calendars.  The October meeting is the deadline.  (3)  Agenda – E. Odle read the agenda for the NBA Fall School in October.  (4)  NALC Secretary-Treasurer Seminar – E. Odle moved to send Penny Polk to the NALC Secretary-Treasurer Seminar in Orlando, Florida, February 27-March 1, 2011  Motion seconded by W. Jumper.  E. Odle amended his motion to send Penny Polk and Fernando Small to the NALC Secretary-Treasurer Seminar in Orlando, Florida, February 27-March 1, 2011.  W. Jumper accepted the amendment.  Motion carried.  (5)  Reimbursement – E. Odle moved to reimburse P. Polk $135.00 for out of pocket expense.  Motion Seconded by S. DeLeon.  Motion Carried. (6) Installation Banquet – The Installation Banquet will be 7:00 P.M., Saturday, November 20, 2010, at the Union Hall.  Cathy’s will cater the banquet.  B. Froemel will contact Cathy’s. (7) Christmas Party – The Christmas Party will be Saturday, December 11, 2010, at the Union Hall. (8)  Computer for Stewards – F. Small has determined we need to purchase a new computer for the front office for the stewards to use.  T. Magallanes moved to spend up to $600.00 to purchase a new computer for the stewards.  Motion seconded by W. Jumper.   

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – Everyone needs to be contributing to COLCPE. (2) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (3)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s is published in the Newsletter.   (4) $60.00 Membership Drawing – Jonathan M. Ramos’ name was drawn for September, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $70.00 next month.  (5) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – W. Jumper won for September.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:45 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:08 P.M.  The invocation was given by R. Estrada.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except J. Ramirez, Jr., T. Robles, P. Majors and C. Cooley.  E. Odle moved to add Jeff Burton to the attendance list for tonight. The motion was seconded by M. Links. Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the August 5, 2010, Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  No additional names were added to either list. S. DeLeon moved to add L. DeLeon to the July 15, 2010, Union Meeting.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the August, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper. Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  There are no communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle announced that Brian Hellman will be the new Director of Health Benefits Plan.   (2) 2011 State Convention - The 2011 Texas State Convention will be June 15 – 17.  (3) MDA – There is no MDA Report because we do not have a coordinator.  We need one.  Someone from MDA will be here at the next meeting to talk about the Bowl-a-thon.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  No unfinished business was brought to the floor.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) New Computer – T. Magallanes asked if we could purchase a new computer for the stewards to use in the front office.  Fernando will see what he can do with the computers that are there.  If he cannot get them updated, bring up purchasing a new one at the next meeting.  (2)  MSP Scans – Do not miss a scan.  It is your job to make them.  (3)  GPS – Discussed GPS in some LLV’s.  (4) National Convention – National Convention delegates gave reports on the 2010 National Convention.  (5)  Overtime – Discussed 3996’s, overtime, unauthorized overtime, leaving time, and street time.  (6)  Uniform Storage – The uniform storage room is a mess and could be a fire hazard.  If there is a Work Night next week, we need to work on cleaning that up. D. Seiler volunteered to come down and start sorting through the uniforms.  (7)  Work Night – T. Chrestman announced a work night on Thursday, August 26, 2010.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – Everyone needs to be contributing to COLCPE.  (2)  E-Activist – Everyone needs to sign up for E-Activist.  It is easy and you will not get any “spam” e-mail.  If you need assistance, contact Fernando. (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Magallanes moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  Motion was seconded by A. Whitaker.  Motion carried.  (4) Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (5) October Fall School – The October School will be in Dallas, Texas, October 9 – 11, 2010.  If you plan to go, see Fernando after the meeting.  (6) COP Meeting – The COP Meeting will be in New Orleans in September.  E. Odle moved to pay M. Terral two days lost time, travel and per diem to go to the COP Meeting and for him (Eddie) to go if Mitch doesn’t go.  Motion seconded by A. Rodriguez.  E. Odle amended his motion.  A. Rodriguez accepted the amendment.  The motion now reads: Pay Mitch Terral two days lost time, travel and per diem to go to the COP Meeting in September.  A vote was taken.  Division was called for.  The Motion carried.  (7)  Installation Banquet/Christmas Party – D. Sieler had a question about the date of the Banquet and Christmas Party.  P. Polk will check past minutes and see what was decided.  Fifty Year Gold Cards and pins will be presented at the Installation Banquet.   (8) $50.00 Membership Drawing – Mary Tenorio’s name was drawn for August, but she was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $60.00 next month.  (9) $15.00 Attendance Drawing - B. Froemel won for August.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:35 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:06 P.M.  The invocation was given by J. Burton.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except F. Small.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the July Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added to either list. E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the July, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  There are no communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) Membership Report – P. Polk gave a Membership Report as of Pay Period 10.  Branch 2589 has a total of 350 members.  We have 26 Associate Members.  We have 194 Active Members: 164 regular carriers; 1 PTR; 18 PTF’s; 4 TE’s and 7 other craft members.  We have 130 Retired Members:  108 Regular Retirees; 10 Life Members; 1 PTF and 11 other craft retirees.  (2)  HBR – E. Odle doesn’t have anything other than if you need anything, give him a call.  E. Odle reported on the “Save Saturday Delivery” article in the July Postal Record.  According to a study by the USPS Office of the Inspector General, OPM owes the USPS close to $75 billion that they overcharged the USPS for pension costs during the transition from the Post Office Department to its current status.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1)  Air Conditioner – Last month a motion was made to spend $200.00 to have someone come check the air conditioner in the front offices. The motor was out.  It cost $227.33 to have it fixed.  D. Quattlebaum moved to pay the additional $27.33 to repair the air conditioner.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.  (2)  Reimbursements – E. Odle purchased two ink cartridges for a printer and scanner he needed while working on Rural vs. City.  Eddie also has mileage expense.  J. Burton moved to reimburse E. Odle $17.97 and $23.47 for the cartridges and pay him mileage for 70 miles.  Motion seconded by A. Williams.  (3)  Delegate Pay – E. Leaney moved to pay delegates to the National Convention $1961.00 each.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Resignation – M. Terral announced that he received a Letter of Resignation from Juan Baca.  He resigned as Vice President and Chief Shop Steward as of Wednesday.  He will be Steward at Monterey through November. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – Everyone needs to donate money to COLCPE.  (2)  Treasurer – C. Cooley announced that he will not run for Treasurer again.  (3) Thursday Work Night – Next Thursday, July 22, 2010, will be a work night.  Show up and make up half a meeting.  (4) Financial Secretary’s Report – C. Cooley read the bills.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills. The motion was seconded by J. Narin.  Motion carried. (5) Treasurer’s Report – C. Cooley read the Treasurer’s Report.  (6)  Uniform Vendor – J. Burton announced that we will have new uniform vendor in Lubbock.  (7) $40.00 Membership Drawing – Cat Vecchio’s name was drawn for July, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be $50.00 next month.  (8) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Don Sieler won for July.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:40 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:10 P.M.  The invocation was given by H. Steffens.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except P. Majors.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the June Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  H. Steffens was added to the Steward List due to working late.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the June, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Thank you card for our contribution to the American Cancer Society from Mrs. Johnnie Wright and Family (Kathy Baldwin).  

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  There are no committee reports.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1)  Article 12 Withholdings – We have learned that we are no longer holding routes for clerks in Houston, Dallas, Lubbock, Amarillo, Abilene or Wichita Falls.  Mitch has written a letter requesting all Article 12 routes be released.  We are expecting them to be released, but don’t know when.  (2)  JARAP – Round two could change, but, for now it is Midwest.  (3)  Rural vs. City – Last month we talked about how much time E. Odle has spent working on this in the last two months.  There is a recommendation from the Executive Board that we pay E. Odle $600.00 for the time he has spent, so far, on Rural vs. City.  J. Burton moved that the Branch pay E. Odle $600.00 for time and travel he has spent on Rural vs. City, so far.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.  (4)  Retirement Papers – Under the new system, we no longer have one on one personal help with retirement papers.  If you want a “phone consultation” you will be on a conference call with 15 to 25 people trying to get help with their retirement.  Karen Thompson, who retired from our personnel office, has offered to help carriers fill out their paperwork.  It is a recommendation of the Executive Board that the Branch pay Karen Thompson one hour at the letter carrier rate for helping a carrier with retirement paperwork, provided the carrier has been a union member for at least five years at the time of their retirement.  Karen will let us know who she has helped and we will check to see if they qualify.  W. Jumper so moved.  Motion was seconded by E. Odle. Motion carried.  (5)  Ceiling Tile – The work on the ceiling is not completed.  There will be another work day to finish the ceiling tile on Thursday, June 24, 2010.  We need everyone to help with this.  B. Froemel wanted to thank everyone who helped with the ceiling tile.  B. Froemel also mentioned all of the extra work T. Chrestman has done.  B. Froemel moved to pay T. Chrestman $100.00 for the use of his vehicle and the extra work he has done on the ceiling.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Singer T-6 – The posting of the T-6 position at Singer station was discussed.  (2) Medical Documentation – We have some packets to hand out in regard to Medical Documentation.  Stewards, and anyone else who wants one, pick up one after the meeting.  (3)  Air Conditioner for the Front Offices – The air conditioner for the front offices is not cooling.  E.  Odle moved we spend up to $200.00 to have someone come out and look at the air conditioner in the front offices and fix it on the spot or give us an estimate.  Motion seconded by B. Froemel.  Motion carried. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Convention – Delegates will need to transfer their room reservation to a personal credit card by June 25, 2010.  Also, Fernando has extra baseball tickets.  If you are interested, let him know before the convention.  (2) COLCPE – We need to see all members take interest in their jobs and donate to COLCPE.  Do it for yourself.  This is your job insurance.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (4)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s is published in the Newsletter.   (5) $30.00 Membership Drawing – Ken Quigley’s name was drawn for June, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $40.00 next month.  (6) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Mitch Terral won for June.  (7)  In Our Thoughts – Continue to keep Billy Grimes and Robert “Bookie” Deary in your thoughts and prayers.  Also, remember Doug Putman and his family on the loss of Doug’s brother.

Meeting was adjourned at 7:55 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:12 P.M.  The invocation was given by J. Burton.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except P. Majors.  M. Terral read the attendance lists for the May 13, 2010, Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  P. Majors was added to the Executive Board list due to illness.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the May, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  There are no communications. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership: Grant D. Fisher.  T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried unanimously

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBP:  E. Odle reported that they talked with Brother O’Malley while in D.C. last week.  There will not be a Health Benefits School this year because it is too close to the National Convention.  There will be one in 2011 at the Flamingo.  (2)  District Three Meeting – E. Odle attended the District Three Meeting in Childress, Texas.  Eddie was the only member from our branch attending the meeting.  (3)  Political – Eddie Odle reported that they met with President Rolando last week in D.C.  They discussed the Postal Service and Five Day Delivery.  OIG found $75 billion dollars that belongs to us.  There is no reason to go to five day delivery.  NALC only met with Congressman Thornberry.  Congressmen Conaway and Neugebauer didn’t show up.  We have two Texas Congressmen who have signed on to a Bill not to close on Saturday.  One of them is Eddie Bernice Johnson.  (4) Food Drive – C. Peterman reported that we collected 106, 250 pounds of food in Lubbock.  Plainview reported that they broke their record.  C. Peterman said we are expecting a grand total of 110,775 pounds of food.  (5)  CLC Meeting – C. Cooley attended the Central Labor Council Meeting.  Andy Wilson was the guest.  He is running against Neugebauer for Congress.  C. Cooley doesn’t know if he really is a friend of NALC and labor.  He avoided some questions.  E. Odle asked if we might get some support from CLC when Representative Joe Heflin comes in September or October.  C. Cooley feels like we can.  Also, CLC will have a Labor Day Picnic on Labor Day.  Everyone is invited. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: (1) Ceiling Tile – We will meet here Sunday at 1:00 P.M. to begin putting up the ceiling tile.  Jeff Burton reported we can rent rolling scaffolding for $44.00 for the week.  We can pick it up Saturday or Sunday.  E. Odle moved to rent the scaffolding.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney. Motion carried. We will order Pizza on Sunday.  We need to announce the work day at the stations tomorrow and Saturday.  Sunday will count as a work day to make up meetings.  Sunday will be an out of schedule work day.  J. Burton moved to count Sunday as full meeting, if you work at least four hours.  Motion seconded by T. Magallanes.  Motion passed.  (2)  Convention – Room reservation and flight schedule information is here for the Delegates.  Look at your hotel reservation.  You can look at rooms on line.  If you want to make any changes prior to July 21, they must be made through Fernando.  They will not even talk to you if you try to make changes yourself before then.  After July 21, 2010, you must put your room on your personal credit card. You may make changes in your room accommodations after that date, also.  Look over your flight reservations.  Make sure every thing is correct. 

NEW BUSINESS: (1) Ice Machines – There will be an ice machine at every station and two at GMF.  This is what the committee decided to do with the Social and Rec account moneys.  (2)  APWU Ad in Avalanche Journal – C. Cooley read an ad APWU is planning to run in the AJ concerning five day delivery.  The Executive Board recommended that our Branch pay for half of the ad.  There was a lot of discussion on this.  E. Odle reported that as letter carriers, we cannot talk about five day delivery with our customers.  Someone asked if we could print the ad in our newsletter.  The information would only be going to other letter carriers.  Mitch will check with the NBA’s office and see if we are permitted to pay for half of the ad and if we can publish it in our newsletter.  T. Magallanes moved that we pay for half of the ad.  This Motion is contingent on approval from NBA’s office.  Motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried. If we do not get approval from the MBA’s office to run the ad, the motion will automatically be ruled out of order.  (3) JARAP – We have a new route adjustment program.  It is the Joint Alternative Route Adjustment Process.  Mitch is on the team.  If your zone is not picked, your route will not be adjusted unless you put in a 271.  They will be using times from March and April.  They may add other zones in June.  They will use times from April and May in June.  (4)  Arbitration Hearing in Plainview – Mitch was in Plainview for four hours on May 4^th for an arbitration hearing.  He had to go to the hearing while he was on vacation. E. Odle moved to pay Mitch four hours at his hourly rate and mileage from Lubbock to Plainview.  Motion seconded by M. Links.  Motion Carried.  W. Jumper moved to pay E. Odle mileage from Lubbock to Plainview to attend the hearings as an assistant.  Motion was seconded by B. Froemel.  Motion carried. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – We have been talking about our jobs and five day delivery tonight.  You can’t count on State Representatives to protect your job.  Get money into COLCPE so they can defend your job.  (2)  E-Activist – You also need to sign up for E-Activist.  It is easy to sign up.  Go to our website and click on Links then click on the NALC Logo.  Scroll to bottom of NALC Home Page. Information on E-Activist is on the bottom right of page.  You can sign up for COLCPE on the left side of page.    (3)  Rural vs. City – There was a Memorandum in October of 2008 in regard to Rural vs. City.  Eddie has been working on this and is nearly finished.  Next month, we need to pay Eddie for time he spent doing this for the Branch. (4) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Magallanes moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (5)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.   (6) $20.00 Membership Drawing – Ronny Barnhill’s name was drawn for May, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $30.00 next month.  (7) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – C. Peterman won for May.  (8)  Work Night – There will be a work night Thursday, May 27^th.  If you work Sunday and Thursday, you can get make up credit for a full meeting on Sunday and half a meeting at the regular work night Thursday.   

Remember Robert “Bookie” Deary and Billy Grimes in your thoughts and prayers. 

Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:01 P.M.  The invocation was given by R. Estrada. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present, except P. Majors.  B. Bowerman and T. Magallanes were added to the membership list for tonight due to illness.  E. Odle moved to add M. Links to the attendance list for tonight.  The motion seconded by E. Leaney. Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the April Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the April, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  There are no communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership:  Vincent David DiPaolo.   T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by J. Burton.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBP:  E. Odle said there is nothing new to report.  Call Eddie if you have any problems or questions.  (2)  Political:  We are going to Washington, D.C., May 9-12.  We have an appointment with Representative Neugebauer.  We are working on an appointment with Representative Conaway and we also have an appointment with Representative Thornberry.  We will be discussing the five day delivery issue.  (3)  District Three – The District Three Meeting is Sunday, April 18, 2010, at 10:00 A.M., in Childress, Texas.  Ken Claxton’s training session will be on the job injuries.  TSALC President, Mickey Morris, will give a legislative update and an update on the Texas State Association.  We need some people from our branch to attend the meeting.  E. Odle also announced that NBA Kathy Baldwin’s step dad, Willie E. “Billy” Wright, passed away.  The family asked for donations to the Cancer Society in lieu of flowers.  E. Odle moved to make a $50.00 donation from Branch 2589.  Motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (4)  MDA – There is no MDA report because we do not have a MDA Representative.  We need someone to volunteer for this position.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Ceiling Tile – Mitch and Tommy checked on ceiling tile this week.  There has been a small price increase.  They will deliver for $15.00.   We can purchase enough tiles to do the main hall under the motion which passed last March.  We will order the tile.  Sunday, May 23, 2010, will be a workday.  We need a lot of people to come out and help put up the ceiling tile.  Please bring a step ladder, if you have one.  J. Burton moved to order pizza on May 23, not to exceed $75.00.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried. (2)  Air Fare to Anaheim – Fernando will order airline tickets tonight.  If you want the Branch to purchase a ticket for your spouse or guest, he will need your money tonight.  The cost is $446.00.  That is the price the branch is paying for travel.  If you want to purchase your ticket(s) yourself, the Branch will reimburse you within 30 days, so you can avoid interest charges on your credit card.  (3)  Hotel Reservations – Hotel information will be available to delegates in May.  Fernando will give delegates their hotel information and confirmation numbers then.  If you want a different suite, you may make changes at that time.  Delegates will have until the end of June to transfer their room reservation to their personal credit card.  All hotel reservations that remain on the Branch credit card after June will be cancelled.  You must transfer your hotel reservation to your personal credit card before the end of June, if you want a room when you get to the convention. 

NEW BUSINESS:  No new business was brought to the floor.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) CLC – The next meeting is May 5, 2010.  Andy Wilson will be there.  He is running for the 19^th Congressional District.  (2)  COLCPE – Fernando gave a report on COLCPE.  We need to be contributing, especially now with the “five day delivery” talks going on.  Mitch commented on the article in the April Postal Record which addresses USPS finances.  Everyone needs to read it.  (3) Military Service – If you served in the military, special extra earnings for your military service from 1957 through 2001 can be credited to your record for Social Security purposes, under certain circumstances.  For more information, go to our website, nalcbranch2589.org.  On the home page, scroll down to the “Postal News” heading and click on the first link…DD-214 Special Extra Earnings for Military Service – Social Security Benefit.  (4)  Retiree Breakfast – The next Retiree Breakfast will be Saturday, April 17, 2010.  Beginning in June, the Retiree Breakfast will be the last Saturday of each month.  (5)  Article 12 Routes – We do not know when these routes will be released.  (6)  Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  (7)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (8)  Work Day – T. Chrestman announced there will be a work day Thursday, April 22, 2010.  (9)  Lamesa Merger – All the paperwork has been sent to National.  We are waiting for their approval.  (10) $10.00 Membership Drawing – Don L. McGraw’s name was drawn for April, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $20.00 next month.  (11) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – C. Cooley won for April.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:47 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by Vice President Juan Baca at 7:08 P.M.  The invocation was given by J. Burton. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except, M. Terral and P. Majors.  No members were added to the attendance list for tonight.  E. Leaney will be added to the attendance list for the February Meeting due to illness.  J. Baca read the attendance lists for the March Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  E. Odle moved to add T. Magallanes to the Steward Meeting list for March 11, 2010.  Motion seconded by J. Burton.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the March, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1)  Thank You Card – We received a Thank You card from Mrs. Joyce Blackburn, Auxiliary 1064, thanking Branch 2589 for paying their State and National Dues. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership:  Robert Coleman McSpadden, Jr.  A. Williams moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by B. Froemel.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle reported we have added 6,468 new members to the NALC Health Benefit Plan.  (2)  Political – There is nothing new on the six day delivery.  You need to contact your representatives about this.  Also, you need to be donating to COLCPE.  We will be going to Washington D.C. on May 9 – 12, 2010.  (3) Food Drive – The Food Drive is May 8, 2010. C. Peterman reported that we will be using bags again this year.  However, the cards will not be stapled to the bags.  They will be delivered separately. We will try to get some bags out to Plainview and Levelland this year.  (4)  District Three Meeting – E. Odle reported the District Three Meeting will be in Childress, Texas, on Sunday, April 18, 2010.  It will start at 10:00 A.M.  Lubbock has had little representation the last couple of years.  Please consider attending this meeting.  (5)  MDA – No report.  (6) Retirees – The Retiree Breakfast will be Saturday, March 27, 2010.  D. Sieler asked about Gold Cards. The only way to find out when members joined NALC before 1969 is by going through the minutes.  Don will have a sign up sheet at the retiree breakfast for members who believe they have 50 years membership. Penny will check the minutes from 1958 to 1960.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Lamesa Merger – A vote was taken by show of hands to accept the merger of Lamesa Branch 3053.  Of 28 members signed in, there were 24 votes for, 0 votes against and 4 abstaining.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Mitch Terral’s Report – Mitch handed out copies of his report at the Officers and Stewards Meetings.  If there is not one at your station, pick up one tonight.  The report should be posted on the NALC Bulletin Board at all stations.  (2)  Vacant Positions – (a) MDA Representative – We need a MDA Representative.  No one volunteered.  (b) Trustee – J. Ladd will transfer soon and Mitch will appoint someone to finish his term.  Jeff Burton and Robert McSpadden are interested.  (c) Custodian and Building Manager – Debbie Redman has resigned.  Troy Robles and Roy Estrada are interested in this position.  (2)  Installation Banquet – We will elect officers this year and will have an installation banquet.  We usually have the banquet the Saturday after the election of officers in November.  That date is November 20^th this year.  The Executive Board will discuss this in April and make recommendations at the April meeting.  Penny will check on Gold Cards and order them from National.  Gold Cards will be presented at the banquet. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) Joe David Huerta – Juan Baca announced there was a notice posted at Monterey Station that Brother David Huerta passed away yesterday.  Services will be Monday, March 22, 2010.  Remember his family in your thoughts and prayers.  (2)  Billy Grimes – Brother Billy Grimes was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. His thyroid gland and lymph nodes have been removed.  He is doing well after the surgery. He will begin radiation treatments as soon as possible.  Keep Brother Grimes and Gay in your prayers during this time.  (3) COLCPE – F. Small checked the list in the Postal Record.  If your name is not on the list and you have donated to COLCPE, let Fernando know, so your name can be added to the list.  (4)  National Convention – Fernando has booked Borrego Suites at the Anaheim Desert Palms Hotel. There is a link to the hotel on our web site.  You can look at the rooms.  If you want a different suite, let Fernando know.  If you ordered baseball tickets, Fernando needs your money now.  Airline tickets will be purchased after the April meeting.  If you want to purchase an airline ticket for a guest, bring the money to the April meeting.  (5) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by A. Williams.  Motion carried.  (6)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  C. Cooley read Building Fund corrections.  E. Odle moved to approve the Treasurer’s Report. The motion was seconded by A. Williams.  Motion carried.  (7) Retiree Breakfast – The Retiree Breakfast will be March 27, 2010.  (8)  Work Night – T. Chrestman announced there will be a work night, Thursday, March 25, 2010.  (9) $290.00 Membership Drawing – David Villalobos won the drawing. This drawing will be for $10.00 next month.  (10) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – A. Williams won for March. 

Meeting was adjourned at 8:01 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

FEBRUARY 18, 2010

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:05 P.M.  The invocation was given by J. Burton. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except P. Majors, J. Ladd and J. Baca.  Members added to the attendance list tonight were J. Smith due to injury and H. Steffens due to family illness.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the February Executive Board and Steward meetings. E. Odle moved to add F. Small to the Executive Board list.  Motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  H. Steffens was added to the Steward List due to family illness.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the February, 2010, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by T. Magallanes.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Donation – We received a donation from Sandra and Cyril Reasoner of Oberkampf Supply of Lubbock in memory of Brother Monte Gutmeir. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There were no Applications for Membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: (1) Political – We will be going to Washington D.C.  (2) HBR – E. Odle did not have anything new to report.  If you have any problems, do not hesitate to call Eddie Odle.  (3)  MDA – We do not have a MDA Representative.  We need one.   If anyone is interested, call Mitch. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1)  Merger with Lamesa – A notice was posted at the stations and published in the Newsletter that we will be voting on the merger with Lamesa at the Regular Branch Meeting on March 18, 2010.  Lamesa has already voted to merge with us.  (2)  MIARAP – The changes at Midwest, Sunset and Downtown will take place Saturday, February 20, 2010.  The changes for Freedom, Monterey and Singer will take place Saturday, February 27, 2010.  We do not have anything planned for MIARAP after this. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Auxiliary Dues – The Dues for Auxiliary 1064 are due.  The dues are $105.00 for National and $12.00 for State, for a total of $117.00.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the 2010 Dues for Auxiliary 1064.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  (2)  The Officers’ Bond – The Bond for our Officers needs to be renewed.  The renewal is $263.66.  E. Odle moved to renew the Bond for the Officers of the Branch.  Motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.  (3)  Building Insurance – After reviewing the building insurance, it was determined that we are underinsured as far as replacement cost of the building.  The replacement cost of the building needs to be a minimum of 80%.  Raising the replacement cost to 90% would cost additional premium of $467.00 per year.  T. Chrestman moved to increase the replacement cost of the building to 90%.  Motion seconded by T. Robles.  Motion carried.  (4)  Water Bill Issue – Our water bill was double what is usually is.  The meter shows we are using huge amounts of water when no one is here.  We do not believe there is a leak because the little wheel in the meter does not turn at all when the water is turned off.  If we had a leak that big, we think it would be obvious.  Craig is meeting someone from the Lubbock Water Department here in the morning.  It could be a faulty meter.  (5) Repair Typewriter – C. Cooley had one of the typewriters repaired.  It cost $85.00.  J. Burton moved to reimburse C. Cooley the $85.00 having the typewriter repaired.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  (6)  New Lock – T. Chrestman reported that we have been working on the new doors to the storage room.  We need a new lock on the door.  If we put new doors on the other side, we will need two locks.  After some discussion, there was no motion to buy new doors for the other side at this time.  E. Odle moved to purchase one lock up to $200.00.  Motion seconded by M. Matthies.  Motion carried. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE - E. Odle reported that one of the big topics at the School in Houston was COLCPE.  We need everyone to sign up.  It is only $5.00 per pay period.  Eddie handed out forms to sign up for contributions to COLCPE.  (2)  Union Healthcare Advocates - E. Odle talked to representatives of Union Healthcare Advocates while in Houston.  They are advocates for Workers’ Compensation and have a help line.  If you have trouble with Workers’ Compensation, call them. The number is 1-888-991-2225.  Eddie has some cards.  A card will be printed in the March Newsletter.  (3)  Newsletter Items – If you have Newsletter items to be printed in the Newsletter, Juan needs to have them by Friday of the week following the Union Meeting.  (4)  Convention Delegates – Delegates to the National Convention have until the April Union Meeting to decide if you are going to fly or drive to California.  F. Small will make airline the reservations after the April 15^th meeting.  Also, if you want additional hotel rooms, you will have to make the reservation yourself.  We are only allowed to make room reservations for the number of delegates going to the National Convention.  (5)  Downtown Steward – Michael Links is the new Steward at Downtown Station.  (6) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by T. Magallanes.  Motion carried.  (7)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (8) $280.00 Membership Drawing – Tom Knobloch’s name was drawn for February, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $290.00 next month.  (9) $15.00 Attendance Drawing - B. Froemel won for February.  

Meeting was adjourned at 7:47 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

JANUARY 21, 2010

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by J. Burton.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except P. Majors, J. Ladd and J. Baca.  E. Odle moved to add A. Majors, P. Majors, J. Baca and D. Valderaz to the attendance list for tonight. The motion seconded by J. Burton. Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the January Executive Board and Steward Meetings. J. Baca was added to both attendance lists due to illness.  J. Smith was added to the Steward List due to illness.  J. J. Ramirez, Jr., had car trouble. E. Odle moved to add J. J. Ramirez, Jr., to both the Officer and Steward Meeting Lists.  Motion seconded by L. DeLeon.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the December, 2009, Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried. 

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Christmas Cards – We received Christmas Cards from NALC Region 10 NBA’s Office and from J. E. Murfee & Son.  (2)  Letter from American Cancer Society acknowledging a gift of $50.00 to the Lubbock Hope Lodge.  (3)  Thank you card for Expression of Sympathy from Juan Baca and Gloria H. Baca, family of Eloise M. Hernandez.   (4)  Thank you card for Expression of Sympathy from Candace Gutmeir and family of Monte Gutmeir.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership:  George Wills.  T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by T. Magallanes.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) Political – E. Odle reported on the status of the Health Care Bill.  We do not know what the status of the Health Care Bill is at this time.  The Texas State Association is planning to go to D. C. in May.  However, that is the National Food Drive weekend and Mother’s Day weekend, so that may change.  (2)  HBR – We have added 6,339 new members as of January 5, 2010.  (3)  MDA – We need a MDA Representative.  We need someone to take this over so we can continue to support MDA.  If you are interested, let Mitch know.  (4)  Trustee Report – T. Chrestman reported that he and P. Majors audited the books and they are in fine shape.  

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) MIARAP – They are scheduled to be here next week to do the route adjustments.  Most of the zones and AO’s are done.  (2)  T-6 String – We discussed the T-6 string vacated by J. Ladd.  Also, we discussed routes that do not have a T-6.  There was also some discussion about Article 12 Withholdings and the route counts.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Lamesa Merger – Lamesa Branch 3053 has expressed a desire to merge with our branch.  They have already voted to merge with us. We will vote by show of hands at the Regular Branch Meeting on Thursday, March 18, 2010, to accept the merger of Lamesa Branch 3053.  Notices will be posted at the stations and will be published in the Newsletter.  (2)  2010 Budget – C. Cooley presented the Proposed Budget for 2010.  E. Odle moved to accept the Proposed Budget for 2010.  Motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  There have been some changes in how the Branch pays for trips.  The Branch will pay airfare for trips, unless you are driving and it is cheaper.  If you choose to drive and it cost more, you will only get the amount of the airfare.  You must turn in a gas receipt.  The Branch will pay actual cost for lodging.  You must turn in your receipt from the hotel.  If you choose to stay at a less expensive hotel, you will be paid for the cost of that hotel.  If you do not turn in your receipts, the money is no longer considered income.  According to the IRS, that money is considered a loan and you must pay it back to the Branch.    

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) Work Night – We will have a work night next Thursday, January 28, 2010.  We will be working with the ceiling grid and the doors to the storage rooms.  (2)  COLCPE – F. Small gave a report on COLCPE.  Everyone needs to sign up.  COLCPE supports those who support us.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – C. Cooley read the Bills for November and December.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills.  The motion was seconded by L. DeLeon.  The Motion carried.  (4)  Treasurer’s Report – C. Cooley read the Treasurer’s Report.  (5) $270.00 Membership Drawing – Mark Allen’s name was drawn for January, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $280.00 next month.  (6) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Alvin Williams won for January.    

Meeting was adjourned at 8:05 P.M.

NOVEMBER 19, 2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:03 P.M. The membership said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present.  E. Odle moved to add L. DeLeon to the attendance list for tonight.  The motion was seconded by D. Valderaz.  Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the November 12, 2009, Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  E. Odle moved to add J. Ramirez, Jr., and P. Majors to the Executive Board Attendance List.  They were working late.  The motion was seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the November, 2009, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.

SPECIAL GUEST – Holly Skipworth came by tonight to thank everyone for their participation in the NALC Bowl-a-thon. She especially wanted to thank Mitch, Jeremy and the team captains for all they did. We collected over $1,700.00.  Everyone had a lot of fun. 

COMMUNICATIONS:  There are no communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) MDA – The Bowl-a-thon was a success.  Mitch reported that some people didn’t participate because they said they can’t bowl.  We are thinking of having a horseshoe or washer pitching match and Bar-B-Que in the spring.  The stations would compete against each other.  (2)  HBP – E. Odle reported that Open Season ends December 14, 2009.  Eddie has been to the stations with a handout comparing NALC HBP with other plans.  This information is also in the Newsletter.  If you need to check for a provider, you can go to our website, nalcbranch2589.org, click on “Links” at the left and then click on Health Benefit Plan (far right).  (3)  Political – Health Care Reform Bill passed the House on November 7, 2009. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  MIARAP – Everyone has started except Freedom.  No one is finished.  The volume count is off on the flats in the tubs.  Some routes are missing 30 to 40% of the volume.  Some supervisors do spot checks and add the volume in.  We don’t know when we will be finished or when the adjustments will take place. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) T-6 String – The T-6 String is posted with five routes.  One of the routes is out of a different station.  (2) Steward Elections – Steward Elections are the first week of December. The balloting will be on Thursday and Friday, December 3^rd and 4^th.  (3)  Reimbursement – When Craig Cooley went to the Secretary/Treasurer School, it cost him $40.00 to check his bags. He would like to be reimbursed.  E. Odle moved to reimburse C. Cooley $40.00.  Motion seconded by H. Steffens.  Motion carried.  (4)  Building Maintenance Fund – C. Cooley reported that the service charge on the Building Maintenance Fund Checking Account is more than the interest we are drawing on the account.  Craig suggested we change the account to a regular non-interest bearing checking account that will not have a service charge.  E. Odle so moved.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Dachshund – Roy Estrada has a brown, male, dachshund to give to a good home.  (2) COLCPE – C. Cooley gave a report on COLCPE.  He said he doesn’t like PACs, but, money does talk and he has signed up for COLCPE.  He encouraged everyone to so do.  F. Small thanked several active and retired carriers who have recently signed up for COLCPE.   (3)  Election Committee Report – W. Jumper gave the election committee report. We are allowed sixteen delegates to the 2010 National Convention.  Mitch Terral, Juan Baca and Craig Cooley are delegates by virtue of the office they hold.  We had 60 ballots.  Twenty seven votes were cast for thirteen additional delegates.  Those delegates are:  Tommy Chrestman; Norma Cruz; Bill Froemel; Jeremy Ladd; Tommy Magallanes; Diane McCarty; Eddie Odle; Juan J. Ramirez, Jr.; Troy Robles; Andy Rodriguez; Don Sieler; Fernando Small; and, D’Angelo Valderaz.  T. Chrestman moved to accept the Election Committee’s Report.  Motion seconded by T. Magallanes. Motion carried.  (4) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the November Newsletter.  Motion was seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.  (5)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the November Newsletter.  (6)  No Work Night – There will not be a work night next Thursday.  It is Thanksgiving Day.  (7) Branch Christmas Party – The Branch Christmas Party will be Saturday, December 12, 2009, 7:00 P.M., at the Union Hall.  It is a Pot Luck dinner.  Bring your family, your favorite pot luck dish or dessert and share good food and good company.  (8) $260.00 Membership Drawing – Billy Grimes’ name was drawn for November, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $270.00 in January.  (9) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Danny Serrano won for November.

Meeting was adjourned at 7:47 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

OCTOBER 15, 2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by L. DeLaGarza.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present, except P. Majors.  P. Majors was added to the attendance list for tonight due to illness; H. Steffens was added due to working late.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the October Executive Board and Steward meetings. D. Valderaz was added to the Steward Meeting List due to working late. E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the October, 2009, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:   There were no communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) Legislative – E. Odle reported the Senate passed legislation allowing USPS to defer $4 billion of its $5.4 billion pre-funding mandate for future retirees’ health benefits.  At the TSALC Meeting, it was decided that we would go to Washington D. C. in March or April of 2010.  (2)  HBR – The HBR Seminar is this weekend.  If you have any questions or need Eddie to make inquiries for you, talk to him after the meeting.  Open Season is November 9 to December 14, 2009.  OPM announced an 8.8% increase in rates.  For Active members, Self will be $44.47 and Family will be $86.11.  For Retirees, Self will be $147.00 and Family will be $299.74.  (3)  MDA – The National Bowl-a-thon is 2:00 P.M., Sunday, November 1^st at Whitewood Lanes.  It will cost $7.00 per person for shoes and three games. This is a fund raising event for MDA. We are asking each team member to raise a minimum of $30.00.  Holly Skipworth was special guest tonight.  She handed out towels to the Team Captains and talked about fund raising. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Color Coded Calendars – Orders for Color Coded Calendars will go in tomorrow.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) MIARAP – Discussed the MIARAP process and the upcoming adjustments.  A Union representative will be there for the consultations.  The Union representative signs off on the adjustments, not the carrier.  (2) Air Travel - We need to book the cheapest flights possible for union business, which is usually about six weeks in advance. When the flights are booked for travel to a union function, that will be the price the Branch will pay for air travel to that function.  If a member decides to fly after the flights have been booked, they will have to book and pay for their own flight.  They will be reimbursed the amount the Branch paid for the tickets at the time the flights were booked.  (3)  Article 12 Routes – We discussed the status of routes being held under Article 12.   

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Electrical Work – T. Chrestman reported that the electricians put three plugs on the front of the stage and we now have three ground fault circuits in the kitchen area.  (2)  Back Door – T. Chrestman reported we have a Restricted Key Way on the back door and a new closure.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  The Motion carried.  (4)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (5) Nomination of Delegates – The following members were nominated as Delegates to the 2010 National Convention:  E. Odle; T. Chrestman; A. Rodriguez; D. McCarty; D. Valderaz; F. Small; L. DeLeon; J. Baca; T. Robles; D. Sieler; M. Terral; N. Cruz; B. Froemel; T. Magallanes; C. Peterman; J. Ramirez, Jr.; S. Cooley; E. Leaney; and J. Ladd.  The election of delegates to the National Convention will be held from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M., November 19, 2009, at the Union Hall.  (6) $250.00 Membership Drawing – Matthew Kuss’ name was drawn for October, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $260.00 next month.  (7) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – E. Leaney won for October.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:10 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

SEPTEMBER 17, 2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:05 P.M.  The invocation was given by R. Estrada.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present, except E. Odle, F. Small, P. Majors and J. Ladd.  The following members were added to the attendance list for tonight:  C. Peterman, family illness; Lou DeLeon, military leave; E. Odle, illness; J. Ladd, family illness; and F. Small. M. Terral read the attendance lists for the September 10, 2009, Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  There is a correction to the August 20, 2009, minutes.  Under For the Good of the Association, the $240.00 Membership Drawing should have read $230.00 Membership Drawing, and, this drawing will be for $240.00 next month (September), not $250.00.  W. Jumper moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the September, 2009, Newsletter, with the corrections.  The motion seconded by A. Sears.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  “Mail Call” mailed order forms and sample Holiday post cards that read “Thank you”…. from “your letter carrier”. There are four designs to choose from.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – There is no report.  (2)  Political – HR 22 passed the House.  (3)  Treasurer – C. Cooley must have receipts for travel and lodging, immediately.  If you do not turn in your receipts, that money will be reported as income and you will receive a 1099 at the end of the year.  (3)  MDA – Special Guest Holly Skipworth, with MDA, is here to discuss the Bowl-A-Thon. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Color Coded Calendars – C. Cooley will be taking orders and collecting money for the calendars tonight.  He will also order calendars for the officers, stewards and the break rooms at the stations.  (2)  T-6 Positions – M. Terral reported that he has received the list of T-6’s missing routes and routes without a T-6.  We are going to hold off on matching these up because of the adjustments coming up this month.  (3)  Caps – Stewards need to turn in any caps they have not handed out at the stations, along with a list of who received a cap. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Back Door – T. Chrestman reported the closure on the back door is broken and the lock needs to be changed.  The closure was estimated to be about $300.00 and a restricted keyway is about $200.00.  It was the recommendation of the Executive Board that we purchase these items.  T. Chrestman moved to purchase a closure and lock for the back door, not to exceed $600.00.  Motion seconded by A. Rodriguez.  Motion carried.   (2)  National MDA Bowl-a-Thon – Special Guest Holly Skipworth is here from MDA to give us more information about the National MDA Bowl-a-thon coming up on Sunday, November 1, 2009.  This is a fund raising event for MDA.  We want everyone to participate.  We want to have at least 20 teams.  We would like to have two team captains, NALC members, from each station and the AO’s.  Team members do not have to be letter carriers.  Ask the clerks at your stations to participate.  Also, ask your family members, friends, church members, and neighbors to participate.  We are asking for a minimum of a $30.00 donation from each team member.  We are shooting for $50.00!  These are donations you will collect.  We have materials available and posters for the stations.  Team captains will be given a kit.  We have post cards with postage to help you in fundraising or you can use the on-line fundraiser.  It is very easy to use. Businesses who sponsor you will receive a plaque and their donations are tax deductible.  We have pre-printed receipts for you to use.  All donations will stay in the West Texas area.  The Bowl-A-Thon will be at Whitewood Lanes on 50^th and Memphis.  J. Ladd will make final arrangements with them on Wednesday.  We have prizes and incentive awards.  Call Holly if you have any questions or need anything.  She will be with us at the October meeting. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:   (1) Electrical Work – T. Chrestman reported that the electrician called and he will be here Monday.  (2)  Flu Shots – D. McCarty asked if we could find someone to give flu shots at the stations at a discount.  D’Angelo contacted a medical supplier.  A ten dose vial of vaccine is $118.00.  He could also supply the syringes.  But, we need a medical professional to administer the injections.  M. Terral appointed D. McCarty to look into finding someone to give the flu shots. (3) Hope Lodge - D. Sieler suggested that Hope Lodge would be a worthy cause for our membership to support.  Hope Lodge will be a place for cancer patients to stay while they are in Lubbock undergoing treatment.  They need donations to finish the Lodge.  However, our By-Laws limit the amount we can donate to charities to $500.00 per year.  We donated that amount to MDA.  If you would like to make a personal donation to Hope Lodge, you can do so by going to hopelodgelubbock.org. or calling 806-792-7128.  (4) Work Day – There will be a work day on Thursday, September 24, 2009, right after work.  (5)  Fall School – The State Association is paying E. Odle for travel to the Fall School.  He will need a check for lodging and per diem. (6)  COLCPE – We need everyone to sign up.  (7) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by H. Steffens.  Motion carried.  (8)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.   (9) $240.00 Membership Drawing - Bennie Jordan’s name was drawn for September, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $250.00 next month.  (10) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – N. Cruz won for September.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:05 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

AUGUST 20, 2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by A. Prestridge.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present, except P. Majors. President Terral read the attendance list for the August Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the August, 2009, Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Thank you card for expression of sympathy from the family of Brother Jack Sessums with personal note from the Holt and Sessums families.  (2)  Thank you card for expression of sympathy from the family of Brother Charles Pendergrass and a personal card from Mrs. Dorothy Pendergrass. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There were no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – There is nothing new to report.  Let Eddie know if you have any problems or questions.  (2)  MDA – J. Ladd announced that November 1, 2009, is the National MDA Bowl-a-thon.  National wants every Branch to participate.  J. Ladd and M. Terral will meet with Holly next Thursday.  Whitewood Lanes is interested in sponsoring the event in Lubbock.  D. Sieler moved we donate our usual amount of $500.00 to MDA at the Labor Day Telethon.  The motion was seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  J. Ladd will make the presentation.  (3)  Labor Day Picnic – The Lubbock Central Labor Council will have a Labor Day Picnic.  There are flyers at the stations about this.  The picnic will be at 4:00 P.M. September 7, 2009, at Mackenzie Park.  All union members and their families are invited. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Caps – The caps are here.  There are two styles. Caps were given to the Stewards last Thursday to take to the stations.  If you are a steward and you were not at the Steward Meeting, you can take the caps for your station tonight.  Retirees can get their caps tonight.  See E. Odle. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Social & Rec Committee – We discussed the amount of money in the Social and Rec Account and what we might to do with it.  The money in this account comes from 1½% of the profits from the vending machine sales.  Purchasing ice machines for all facilities is one suggestion that has been made.  Someone is looking into leasing ice machines.  (2)  New Posting Procedure – A new posting procedure for the posting of routes will be put in writing.  (3)  New Lock for Back Door – T. Chrestman reported we need to replace the lock on the back door.  We have two bids:  one from Lubbock Lock & Key for $352.90 and one from Western Building Specialties, Inc., for $1,073.84.  N. Cruz moved to accept the bid from Lubbock Lock and Key.  The motion was seconded by W. Jumper.  The motion carried.  (4)  Electrical Work – T. Chrestman reported that we need to have electrical outlets installed on the front of the stage and we need two new circuits in the kitchen area.  We have three bids for this work:  Greer Electric Company $1,165.00; Baker Electric $1,500.00 and Continental Electric Company $1,344.00.  There is a recommendation from the Executive Board that we go with Continental Electric Company, even though it was not the lowest bid.  D. McCarty moved to go with the recommendation of the Executive Board and accept the bid from Continental Electric Company.  The motion was seconded by N. Cruz.  The motion carried.  We will keep the speaker system.  (5)  Austin School – If you plan to attend the Austin School October 10-12, 2009, Fernando needs to know tonight.  Room reservations have been made for the following members:  J. Baca; C. Cooley; N. Cruz; D. Valderaz; T. Magallanes; P. Majors; E. Odle; J. Ramirez, Jr.; F. Small; H. Steffens and M. Terral.  If you are planning to fly, Fernando needs to know immediately.  (6)  Color Coded Calendars – We received the order form for the 2010 Color Coded Calendars.  Stewards will start taking orders at the stations.  The cost is $3.50 each, which needs to be paid when you order.  (7)  MIARAP – Kathy Baldwin wants to schedule a seminar on the new MIARAP process.  C. Peterman moved to send Mitch Terral to the MIARAP Seminar at per diem when and where it is scheduled.  Motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to send J. Baca to the MIARAP Seminar at per diem.  Motion seconded by A. Williams.  The motion carried.  (8)  Station Closings – They are not closing any stations in Lubbock.  Two Lubbock stations were on a list of stations to look at for possible closing or consolidation.  There are no plans to close any Lubbock Stations in the near future.  We also discussed five day delivery and other legislation concerning the Postal Service.   

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – We need to see your name on the list!  This is your job protection.  (2) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by D. Valderaz.  Motion carried.  (3)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s is published in the Newsletter.  C. Cooley reported that there are corrections in the Building Maintenance Fund.  The Interest reads $1.40; it is $2.84.  The Service Charge reads $1.12; it is $3.22. The correct Ending Balance is $12,068.00.  (4) $240.00 Membership Drawing – Robby J. Mitchell’s name was drawn for August, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $250.00 next month.  (5) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – W. Jumper won for August.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:07 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

JULY 16, 2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  President Mitch Terral called for a moment of silence in memory of Brother Charles Pendergrass.  Brother Pendergrass passed away July 14, 2009.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except F. Small and P. Majors.  The following members were added to the attendance list for tonight for illness, medical or family medical reasons:  A. Rodriguez; F. Small; P. Majors; D. McCarty and T. Magallanes.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the July Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added to either list. E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the July, 2009, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by W. Jumper.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  There were no communications.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There were no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – The Health Benefits Seminar is October 18-21, 2009.  If anyone needs anything or has any questions, let Eddie know.  A 24 hour nurse has been added as part of the HBP.  That phone number is 877-220-6252.  (2)  Political – HR 22 was unanimously approved in The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. It will go to the House for a full vote.  (3) MDA – There was no MDA report.  (4)  Trustees Audit – Tommy Chrestman reported the Trustees audited the books.  The books are in fine shape.  (5)  State Convention – E. Odle reported on the State Convention.  State Officers are:  Mickey Morris, President; Brad Ramey, Vice-President; Sharon Rucker, Secretary; Shawn Boyd, Treasurer; and Hector Salinas, Director of Retirees.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Lubbock Central Labor Council – We got the paperwork to finalize our membership with CLC.  The dues will be $28.35 a month.  E. Leaney motioned to submit our membership to CLC and pay dues semi-annually. Motion Seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  (2)  State Convention Receipts – C. Cooley needs your room and travel receipts.  (3)  Caps – The caps have been ordered.  We ordered two versions of a “Cool River” color.  It is a blue/grey similar to our uniforms. One is a solid blue cap with tan lettering.  The other is a blue cap with a bone color bill.  They should be here soon.     

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Hold Downs – The issue of hold downs being denied has been settled.  We won that at Step B.  (2) Secretary-Treasurer Training – We have received notification of a Financial Administration Training Seminar in Chicago, October 19-21, 2009.  E. Odle motioned to send C. Cooley to the Secretary-Treasurer Training in Chicago, October 19-21, 2009, and pay mileage and per diem.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  (3)  Auxiliary Pins – Last month D. Sealer asked if  pins are available for Auxiliary officers. We obtained an order form at the State Convention.  E. Odle motioned to purchase five Auxiliary Officer Pins. Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.  The pins will be given to past Presidents of Auxiliary 1064. (4)  Route Adjustments – We discussed the route adjustment process.  Times and volume will be looked at again in September.  (5) TE’s – TE’s should be around for another year.  Some may be sent to AO’s to work.       

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – Everyone needs to sign up for direct contributions to COLCPE.  (2)  Work Night – There will be a work night next Thursday, July 23, 2009. (3) Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  W. Jumper moved to accept the Treasurer’s report.  Motion seconded by R. Urias.  Motion carried. (4) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried. (5) Newsletter Items – J. Ramirez, Jr., announced that a file folder has been placed in a plastic holder by the door of the Editor’s office.  If you have items you would like published in the newsletter, place them in the folder.  (6) June Attendance List – L. DeLeon moved to add D. Valderaz to the June Meeting attendance list. Motion seconded by S. DeLeon.  The motion carried.  (7) $220.00 Membership Drawing – Michael LaVere’s name was drawn for July. He was not present. This drawing will be for $230.00 next month.  (8) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – W. Jumper won for July.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

JUNE 18, 2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:05 P.M.  The invocation was given by H. Steffens.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present, except E. Odle, J. Baca and F. Small.  The following members were added to the attendance list for tonight due to medical reasons:  E. Odle, A. Rodriguez and F. Small.  M. Terral read the attendance lists for the June Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added.  N. Cruz moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the June, 2009, Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by S. DeLeon. Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) The Branch received an acknowledgment from Lubbock First Church of the Nazarene for our donation in memory of Brother Jack Stephenson.  The donation will be used for the Puppet Ministry Brother Stephenson worked with.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:   There were no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  There were no committee reports.

SECRETARY’S REPORT:  Branch 2589 has 19 Associate Members.  We have 198 Active Members including 161 regular carriers, 1 PTR, 23 PTF’s, 5 TE’s and 8 members from other crafts.  We have 128 Retired Members including 102 retired regular carriers, 13 Life Members (50 years or more), 1 retired PTF and 12 retired members from other crafts.  That is a total membership of 345. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Retirees’ Breakfast – Brother Al Edwards has taken over the Retiree’s Breakfast.  He wants to change the breakfast to the third Saturday of each month.  We published a notice of the change in The Lubbock Letter Carrier.  However, the building is rented on the third Saturdays through the remainder of the year.  The Retirees’ Breakfast will continue to be the last Saturday of each month though this year.  It will change to the third Saturday of the month next year.  (2) CLC – Last month the membership voted to join the Lubbock Central Labor Council and pay dues at 8¢ per capita per month.  Since then, we found out the dues are 15¢ per capita per month.  We will need another motion, if we still want to join.  They meet on the first Wednesday of each month.  N. Cruz moved we join the Lubbock Central Labor Council.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.  (3) Jackets and Caps – There will be an order form for Jackets in the next Newsletter.  Order forms will also be available at the stations.  In regard to the caps, we have been sent art work, on the computer, to look at before making the final order.  The caps have a Velcro adjustable closure.  (4) Reimbursement – Last year F. Small fell through the ceiling while doing some wiring for the computers.  The ladder he was on gave way.  He had to go to the emergency room.  We told him the Branch would pay any out of pocket medical expenses.  That amount is $460.30.  T. Chrestman moved to pay Fernando Small $460.30 for out of pocket medical expenses resulting from his fall.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  (5) Officer and Steward Pay – We will be handing out checks for officer and steward pay tonight.  D. McCarty moved to pay three members for time spent assisting with grievances as follows:  Tommy Magallanes - $360.00; D’Angelo Valderaz - $280.00; and Joshua Smith - $150.00.  This motion does not set a precedent.  Motion seconded by S. DeLeon.  Motion carried.  

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Route Postings and Route Adjustments – The results of the bid postings were announced.  We discussed route adjustments and the effects of losing a route on a T-6 string.  (2)  Social and Rec Committee – District has taken over this committee. The paper work has been done to get all of the monies due us.  After district took over the committee, the laws governing it changed. Our share of proceeds from the snack and soda machines has decreased from 8% to 1½ %.  The monies must to be used for something that will benefit all postal employees equally.  (3) State Convention – We will issue checks and delegate cards tonight. Mitch has the confirmation numbers for the room reservations.  We also have discount tickets to Six Flags.  We will be wearing the red vests.  If you have one at home, bring it.  If you are flying and the Branch booked your flight, you will only need to turn in your hotel receipt.  If you are driving, you will need to turn in a hotel receipt and some gas receipts.  All delegates will attend all business meetings and you are expected to attend some classes.     

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Electrician - T. Chrestman asked if anyone knows a good electrician.  We need to have some work done before we put up the new ceiling tile.  No one does, but we will, now that we voted to join the CLC. (2) K. Goad – D. McCarty moved to add Karen Goad to the May attendance list due to special circumstances.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.  (3) Auxiliary Pins – D. Sieler asked about service pins for Auxiliary Members. We will look into that.  (4) Food Drive – C. Peterman reported the total was around 75,000 pounds.  He did send a report to National.  (5) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  The Motion carried.  (6) Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report also is published in the Newsletter.  (7) $210.00 Membership Drawing – Jesse Andres Perez’s name was drawn for June, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $220.00 next month.  (8) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – C. Cooley won for June.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:08 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

MAY  2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  President Mitch Terral asked for a moment of silence in memory of Brother J. Carrol Blackburn and Brother Jack E. Stephenson. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except T. Chrestman.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the May, 2009, Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the May, 2009, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) The Officers and the Membership received a Thank you card from Sister Karen Goad.  (2)  Literature from American Cancer Society (3) News on Wheels, Meals on Wheels Newsletter.  (3)  HBR Report for May.  (4)  Best Impressions Catalogue. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) Food Drive – C. Peterman said he believes the initial report for the first day of the Food Drive was about 65,000 pounds of food.  He will have a final report at the next meeting.  (2)  Political – National President Young said HR 22 will save the Postal Service 3.5 billion dollars a years.  He believes it will pass and President Obama will sign it. President Young does not believe we will go to a five day delivery week. (3)  HBR – There is an article in the HBR Report under Health in the News, Tips for Breaking in New Shoes. T. Schulmeyer motioned to form a committee on breaking in shoes.  Motion seconded by O. Scott.  Motion failed.  E. Odle reported there will be a National Health Benefit Seminar in Las Vegas, October 18-21, 2009.  We have budgeted $1,000.00 each to send our Health Benefits Representative and Vice-President to the Seminar.  N. Cruz motioned to send E. Odle and J. Baca to the Seminar, pay mileage and per diem plus the $75.00 registration fee for each.  Motioned seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.    

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:   (1) Jackets – There should be a form in the next Newsletter for ordering the jackets.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Bids – The T-6 at Freedom will be reposted.  The wrong routes were listed on the posting.  Route 1214 went “no bid” and will be held per Article 12. The Downtown T-6 went “no bid” and will be awarded to the senior PTF.  (2) Gold Cards – We still have some Gold Cards that have not been awarded.  They will be mailed out next week.  (3) Secretary/Treasurer School – We have heard there are plans to have a school in the fall.  We will schedule C. Cooley to go to the school as soon as we find out when it is.  (4)  Lubbock Central Labor Council – The Central Labor Council is a group of unions in Lubbock.  They help as a group with anything the individual unions are doing. We were associated with them several years ago.  There is a recommendation from the Executive Board to re-associate with the council, as long as they do not need our membership’s addresses.  The dues are 8¢ per capita per month.  We do not know if this includes retirees or not.  But, even if it does, the most our dues would be is $26.00 to $27.00 per month.  N. Cruz motioned to join the Lubbock Central Labor Council, provided we do not give them our members’ addresses.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd. Motion carried.   (5)  Grievances – PTF grievances were discussed. (6)  Excess Clerks – APWU President, Mike Sturm, is our special guest tonight.  He and Mitch discussed excessing clerks and how it will affect both crafts.  We then had a question and answer session.  (7)  Retiree Breakfast – Brother D. Sieler reported that Brother J. Carrol Blackburn had a Retiree Breakfast the last Saturday of each month for many years.  The Blackburn family told Brother Sieler that they will host one last Retiree Breakfast on May 30, 2009.  After that, we need to find someone else to take over the Retiree Breakfast, if we continue to have them.          

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Treasurer’s Report – C. Cooley read the April Treasurer’s Report.  (2) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report was read by C. Cooley.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills for April.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  The motion carried.  (3) COLCPE – F. Small reminded the membership that COLCPE protects your jobs.  A contribution to COLCPE is “job insurance.”  (4) State Convention – F. Small needs to know, tonight, if you are going to fly.  There will be a “Texas Hold’em” Tournament to benefit Muscular Dystrophy at the Convention on June 24, 2009.  We have a couple of registration forms. (5) $200.00 Membership Drawing – James E. Martin’s name was drawn for May, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $210.00 next month.  (6) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Gary Howard won for May.  (7) Work Night – There will be a work night next Thursday, May 28, 2009.    

Meeting was adjourned at 8:15 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

APRIL 16, 2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:03 P.M.  The invocation was given by K. Goad. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except P. Majors. P. Majors, B. Froemel and A. Sears were added to the membership list for tonight due to illness.  T. Chrestman moved to add T. Magallanes to the membership list.  He came to the meeting, but, had to leave due to weather conditions at home.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried. M. Terral read the attendance lists for the April Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the April, 2009, Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) The Branch received Thank You for Expression of Sympathy cards from the family of Mac Massey, Sister Ann Lee’s father.  (2)  The branch received a letter from Texas Boys Ranch thanking us for our donation in memory of Mac Massey.  (3)  We received the February 2009 newsletter from Texas AFL-CIO.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have two applications for membership:  Joshua Adan Chavez from Monterey Station and Joshua Weston Smith from Sunset Station.  T. Chrestman moved to accept these applications for membership.  The motion was seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle reminded everyone about the ExtraCare Health Card or key fob you can use at CVS and receive a discount on health related products.  Also, be sure and check you receipt for “ExtraBucks” for additional savings.  Caremark also has a FastStart Program for continuing prescriptions.  When your prescription has no refills left, Caremark will contact your doctor and have the prescription faxed to them and mail it out to you. There is also a medical alert program through Connect America.  For more information, check your April Postal Record under Health Benefits, or call Eddie.  (2)  Political – We are watching several Bills.  H.R. 22 still has 144 co-sponsors.  E. Odle does not know where it stands right now.  H.R. 235 has 206 co-sponsors.  This bill would repeal the Government Pension Offset and Windfall Elimination Provision that denies many retirees full Social Security benefits.  The bill is referred to a House Committee.  H.R. 1804 passed the House on April 1, 2009, and goes to the Senate.  A section of the bill deals with selling of sick leave for FERS employees.  H.R. 958 has 24 co-sponsors.  This bill would make unused sick leave creditable for retirement purposes under FERS the same as provided under CSRS.  It is currently referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.  (3)  District Three Meeting – The District Three Meeting will be in Childress, Texas, on April 19, 2009, at the Co-Op Building.  (4)  MDA – There was no report. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Jackets – The Executive Board recommended that the Branch take orders for the jackets.  The cost will be around $42.00.  There will be an order form in the Newsletter.  (2)  PTF Hold Down – We discussed PTF carriers who have hold downs on routes, but are being brought in later.  (2)  Waiting Time – We discussed moving to 354 carrier waiting time.  Red book time is 743.  (3)  Street Observations – Management is required to do street observations.  Be sure you are following all safety guidelines.  (4)  Misdelivered Mail – This is a serious problem.  (5)  Blocked Mailboxes – Discussed the procedure for blocked boxes. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Branch Treasurer – K. Goad announced at the Executive Board Meeting that she is moving to Kentucky.  We need a Treasurer for the Branch.  We will have a Pot Luck Dinner in honor of Karen at 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 21, 2009, at the Union Hall.  (2)  Web Site – We need to renew our website name.  It is $49.95 for two years.  The Executive Board so recommended.  T. Chrestman moved to renew our website name for two years.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  (3)  No Bid Routes – Posted routes that go “no bid” will be held per Article 12 until released by District.  Any “no bid” T-6 strings will be assigned to senior PTFs.  (4)  Caps – The Executive Board discussed doing something for the membership.  The Board recommended the purchase of 300 caps to be made available to the membership.  They are about $11.00 each.  The caps will have the NALC Emblem embroidered on them with the local number on the bill.  E. Odle moved to purchase 300 caps.  Motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.   

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) TSALC Elections - Sister Ethel Ford is running for President and would appreciate our vote.  Brother Shawn Boyd and Brother Larry Snyder are running for Treasurer.  (2)  Drill Bits – T. Chrestman reported that out of the money the Branch voted to pay him last month, he had about $75.00 after taxes.  He bought a new set of drill bits and donated his old set to the Branch.  Also, he bought welding rods to replace the rods he had used.  He spent about $65.00.  (3)  Leaks/Work Night – T. Chrestman also reported he was here while it was raining and found two leaks toward the back of the building.  Someone needs to get on the roof and fix these leaks.  T. Chrestman thinks we have some tar left from the last time we repaired the roof.  We will have a work night Thursday, April 23, 2009.  (4)  Bulk Mail Account – K. Goad announced that we are down to $54.00 in the Bulk Mail Account.  T. Chrestman moved to put $200.00 in the Bulk Mail Account.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  (5)  Newsletter – J. J. needs articles for our Newsletter.  Let him know if someone is retiring at your station.  We can put their picture in the newsletter.  Also, send him birth, wedding, and graduation announcements to publish. (6) Web Links – We plan to add another link to our website.  F. Small does a great job maintaining our website.  There is a lot of information there and links to other websites.  (7) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter. E. Odle moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by C. Cooley.  Motion carried.  (8)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.   (9) $190.00 Membership Drawing – Aubrey Prestridge’s name was drawn for April, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $200.00 next month.  (10) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Juan Baca won for April.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:05P.M.

MARCH 29, 2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by Vice President, Juan Baca, at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by P. Polk. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except Juan J. Ramirez, Jr., Paul Majors and Mitch Terral.  Juan J. Ramirez, Jr., was added to the attendance list for tonight due to illness.  J. Baca read the attendance list for the March Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No names were added to either list.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the March, 2009, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) “The Connection” – March, 2009, Newsletter from the Volunteer Center of Lubbock. “The Connection” is a guide to volunteering in Lubbock.  (2)  HBR Report for March, 2009.  (3)  Harris Federal Law Firm – Correspondence concerning an article about Federal Worker’s Compensation.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership:  Thomas T. Hamman from Singer Station.   T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle reported that Region 10 gained 1,078 members in the NALC Health Benefits Plan during Open Season.  Eddie encouraged members to use CVS “Maintenance Choice” prescription program by mail.  This saves members money on prescriptions and generates revenue for the Postal Service.  CVS also has a key fob which will save 20% on health related items.  Again, Eddie encouraged members to call him if you have any problems with the Health Benefits Plan.  (2)  Political – E. Odle reported on the trip to Washington, D. C., March 9^th and 10^th.  They were there with about 18 other states.  They went to talk about H.R. 22 in regard to prefunding NALC HBP.  Only NALC HBP is required to prefund.  E. Odle reported that they saw all three congressmen from this area.  President Young is scheduled appear before a House Sub Committee on the 25^th.   (2)  MDA – J. Ladd gave a disappointing report in regard to the Golf Tournament for MDA.  Meadowbrook and LakeRidge are run by the same people.  Things were going pretty well until J. Ladd talked to the MDA Coordinator for our area.  She said Harley Davidson was having a tournament in July and it would be difficult to get different sponsors for our tournament, since we were so different from Harley Davidson and we were union.  She said MDA would support our efforts and help get sponsors, if we would guarantee between $5,000.00 and $10,000.00.  Jeremy told her we couldn’t do that.  She said she would see what she could do, but, he has not heard a word from her.  It will be expensive to do on our on.  The Golf Course wants a large deposit and it will cost to have food and beverages.  Jeremy will get with Tommy Magallanes and Juan J. Ramirez, Jr., to see if they still want to try to do this, but right now, without any help from MDA, it does not look like we will have a golf tournament.  If, MDA doesn’t want to help us out, Jeremy suggested just giving them the usual $500.00 donation we give them every year and forget it.   

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Jackets – The jacket we ordered came in. The Executive Board recommended the purchase of 50 jackets in assorted sizes at about $41.00 each.  Larger sizes are a little more.  The jacket will be available for purchase by Branch officers, stewards and members and will be used as a Membership Drive Promotion. E. Odle moved to purchase 50 of these jackets.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  After much discussion E. Odle called for the question.  After the voice vote, division was called.  In a vote by show of hands there were nine (9) for and nine (9) against.  A. Williams moved to table. (2)  Spring School – If you went to the Spring School and have not turned in your hotel receipt, do so immediately.  K. Goad must have these receipts.  (3)  Ceiling Tile – The Executive Board recommended purchasing ceiling tile which costs $4.80 per tile.  T. Chrestman reported we will need 533 tiles and there are ten to a carton.  He passed around the tile for the membership to look at.  The total cost will be about $2,782.00.  E. Odle moved to purchase ceiling tile not to exceed a cost of $3,000.00.  Motion seconded by A. Sears.  Motion carried. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Storage Room Doors – T. Chrestman reported that the double doors on the storage rooms in the back of the Union Hall are just about torn up and about to fall off the hinges.  Tommy has obtained prices to replace these doors.  Double metal doors with metal jams are $1,075.00.  K. Goad stated we cannot purchase both sets of double doors and the ceiling tile right now.  Tommy reported the doors where we store the tables and chairs are the worse.  E. Odle moved to purchase one set of metal double doors with metal jams for $1,075.00 to replace the doors where the tables and chairs are stored.  Motion seconded by A. Sears.  After considerable discussion, a vote was taken and the motion carried.  (2)  Compensation – B. Froemel reported that T. Chrestman has been doing a lot of work at the union hall and built the carts to store the chairs.  He thought Tommy should be compensated.  E. Odle moved to pay T. Chrestman $100.00.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried. (3)  Mileage Pay – Juan Baca reported a situation that came up involving a member bringing information from Plainview to Lubbock.  The information was needed in a Step 2 and the time limit was running out. Juan requested we pay the carrier mileage.  N. Cruz motioned to pay the carrier mileage from Plainview.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  After extensive discussion a vote was taken.  The motion carried.     

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) District Three Meeting – E. Odle reported that the District Three Meeting will be in Childress, Texas, on Sunday, April 19, 2009.  Ken Claxton is scheduled to give a class on the new route count procedure.  Diane McCarty said she was going to attend.  If you want to go with her, let her know before April 19^th.  (2) Taxes – K. Goad reported our accountant called and the taxes are done.  K. Goad needs approval to write the accountant a check for tax preparation.  E. Odle moved to pay the accountant.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried. (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the March Newsletter.  N. Cruz moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.  (4) Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the March Newsletter.  (5)  Retiree Breakfast – The next Retiree Breakfast is March 28, 2009.  (6) Work Night – There will be a work night on Thursday, March 26, 2009.  When you finish your route, come on down to the union hall.  There is a lot to do.  (7) $180.00 Membership Drawing – Wesley Alan Davis’ name was drawn for March, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $190.00 next month.  (8) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – T. Chrestman won for March.     

Meeting was adjourned at 8:55 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

JANUARY 15, 2009

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by N. Cruz.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present.  N. Cruz moved to add H. Steffens and D. Sieler to the attendance list for tonight.  The motion was seconded by E. Odle. Motion carried.  A. Rodriguez moved to add A. Sears to the November 20, 2008, Union Meeting, due to illness. Motion was seconded by N. Cruz. Motion carried. M. Terral read the attendance lists for the January, 2009, Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  J. Baca was added to the Steward List due to a family illness.  E. Odle moved to add J. J. Ramirez, Jr., to the Officers List.  Motion was seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to add D’Angelo Valderaz to the Steward Meeting.  Motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the December, 2008, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) The Branch received a card from Boots Tidwell thanking the Branch for the donation to the band for playing at the Installation Banquet.  (2) A thank you letter from the American Heart Association for our gift in memory of Mary Lee Sims, Brother Doug “Pop” Sims’ wife.  (3) Thank you for expression of sympathy from the family of Louise Weehunt, Brother Tommy Chrestman’s mother-in-law.      (4)  Thank you for expression of sympathy from the family of Juanita S. Cruz, Sister Norma Cruz’s grandmother.  (5)  Thank you letter from Hospice of Lubbock for our donation in memory of Brother Apolinar “Paul” Ramos.  (6)  Christmas card from Meals on Wheels.  (7)  Texas AFL-CIO December, 2008, Newsletter (8) HBR Report for December, 2008.    

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There were no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) MDA – There was no report.  (2) HBR – E. Odle reported that Open Season has been extended until January 31, 2009. You can still switch to the NALC Health Benefits Plan before the end of the month.  (3) COP Meeting – E. Odle reported that the committees for the State Convention have been selected.  Eddie has information on Scholarship Applications and the Newsletter Contest.  Early registration is $35.00.  Late registration is $50.00.  There will not be a banquet this year.  There will be a Welcome Party on Wednesday, June 24, 2009.  E. Odle went over the agenda and the price of ads in the State Convention Program.  E. Odle moved to purchase a ¼ page ad for $75.00.  Motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.  It looks like the 2010 National Convention will be in Las Vegas, Nevada.  (4)  Budget – The 2009 Budget was presented to the membership.  N. Cruz moved to accept the 2009 Budget.  Motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.      

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Gold Cards – We have several Gold Cards and 50 year pins to be presented to members.  None of them were present tonight.  (2)  Jackets – We have discussed purchasing t-shirts, caps or jackets to be presented to new members.  The Executive Board has recommended a baseball type jacket from Cedarstream Union Products Catalogue.  Their products are union made in the USA.  The Executive Board recommended purchasing one jacket for $47.75 right now.  Then we can decide if we want to purchase more.  E. Odle moved to purchase one jacket from Cedarstream.  Motion was seconded by A. Sears.  Motion carried.  (3) Route Count Adjustments – The route count settlements were discussed.  There will be adjustments in other stations through the Joint Route Evaluation Process.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Routes – The following routes are up for bid:  702; 1416; 1421; 1423; T-6 at Midwest; T-6 at Freedom; 1532; and 1656.  These routes will be posted on January 20, 2009.  (2) Auxiliary 1064 Dues – We received a request from our Auxiliary to help them pay their dues.  It is a recommendation of the Executive Board to pay Auxiliary 1064 dues in the amount of $117.00.  T. Chrestman so moved.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried unanimously.   (3)  AFL-CIO Dues – Dues for 21 members of Branch 2589 through 2009 are $352.80.  It is a recommendation of the Executive Board to pay AFL-CIO dues for 21 members.  T. Chrestman so moved.  Motion seconded by T. Magallanes. Motion carried.  (4) Grievance Settlements – Settlements concerning 3971’s and PTF cases were discussed.  (5) Annual Leave – Incidental leave slots were discussed.  Slots for the week of Convention have been released and were evenly divided between the stations.  (6) Spring School – The rooms have been booked for the Spring School.  If you are going, you need to get with Fernando tonight and get your confirmation number.  Then you MUST move your reservation to your personal credit card by January 29^th.  If you do not do so, you will not have a room when you get to Houston.  All of the rooms that have been confirmed on the Branch credit card will be cancelled after January 29^th.  If you want to fly, get with Fernando tonight.  If you are going to the Spring School, Fernando and Karen need to know as soon as possible.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Work Night – There will a work night Thursday, January 22, 2009.  T. Chrestman is in charge.  (2) COLCPE – Fernando made an appeal to all carriers to contribute to COLCPE.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – F. Small read the December bills.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills.  The motion was seconded by A. Rodriguez.  Motion carried.  (4) Treasurer’s Report – K. Goad read the December Treasurer’s Report.  (5) Trustee’s Report – J. Ladd reported that the Trustees examined the books and they are in order.  (6) $160.00 Membership Drawing – A. Prestridge’s name was drawn for January, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $170.00 at the February meeting.  (7) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – P. Majors won for January. 

Meeting was adjourned at 8:03 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

OCTOBER 16, 2008

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:03 P.M.  The invocation was given by E. Leaney.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present, except P. Majors.  Members added to the attendance list for tonight were P. Majors due to injury and B. Froemel due to illness.  M. Terral read the attendance lists for the October 9, 2008, Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the October, 2008, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) The Branch received a Thank you card for expression of sympathy from the family of Joe Pearson, Sister Debbie Redman’s father.  (2)  Activist Newsletter for July, 2008.  (3)  Texas AFL-CIO Newsletter for September, 2008.  (3)  Goldstein Associates sent the Branch an order form for 2009 Union made wall calendars and pocket planners. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There are no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle thanked everyone for allowing him to attend the HBR Seminar.  He said it was very enlightening.  He was also able to go over to the Committee of Presidents and hear President Bill Young for a while.  Open Season runs from November 10^th through December 8^th.  Active Carriers biweekly self-only premium went up $0.10 to $32.71.  Self & Family went up $8.30 to $62.84.  Annuitant’s monthly self-only premium went down $4.98 to $122.42.  Self & Family went up $5.14 to $252.14.  Our goal is to be better than Blue Cross/Blue Shield.  We have 20 new programs.  Here are a few: (1) You can purchase up to a 90-day supply (84-day minimum) of covered drugs and supplies from a local CVS Pharmacy and pay the applicable mail order copayment which is $12.00 for generic. (2) Co-pay is now $15.00 for outpatient and office visits. (3) Copayment per admission at a PPO hospital for medical/surgery is $100.00. (4) Annual physical is $15.00. (5) If you use a Quest Lab facility, lab work costs nothing.  More information is published in the October Newsletter or you can go online to www.nalcbranch2589.org and click on “Links” in the left column and then click on the HBP Logo at the far right on the Branch Links page.  (2)  Political – Go vote.  (3)  MDA – J. Ladd has no report.  D. Sieler reported that Branch 2589 made the revised 2007 MDA Honor Roll in The Postal Record.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  Installation Banquet – The Installation Banquet is Saturday, November 22, 2008, here at the Union Hall at 7:00 P.M.  It will be catered by Cathy’s.  D. Sieler and J. Ladd volunteered to be here at 6:00 to let the caterer in.  Next month, after the meeting, we need to stay and set up the tables and chairs for the banquet.  The Auxiliary will decorate.  We will reimburse them for the cost of the decorations.  Brother Gary Mullins will be here to install the officers.  The Executive Board recommended that we purchase a gift card for Brother Mullins to show our appreciation.  T. Chrestman motioned to purchase a gift card for Brother Mullins.  Motion was seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  We discussed the menu for the banquet.  From the menu selections, the membership decided on steak, Cornish game hen, baked potatoes, and green beans.  We will ask if we can have an assortment of desserts.   

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) E-mail addresses – D. McCarty asked for all stewards to give her their e-mail addresses and/or phone numbers so we can notify the stewards when routes are posted.  (2)  Routes Pending Reversion – Management is holding two routes at Midwest Station pending reversion.  Management has 30 days to revert or post them.  (3)  Ladder – F. Small fell through the ceiling last month because the ladder he was on gave way.  The Executive Board recommended that we purchase an eight foot, double sided ladder.  E. Odle motioned to purchase said ladder not to exceed $250.00, plus tax.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  After some kidding about the fall, K. Goad said she was here when F. Small fell and it was a serious fall.  His injuries could have been far more serious than they were.  (4)  A/C – The air conditioner in the front offices stopped cooling.  We had to call someone to come out.  The cost was $238 and a few cents.  T. Chrestman motioned to pay for the A/C repair.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  (5) Cups – We need to purchase some larger coffee cups the next time we get supplies.  (6) Bulk Mailing Permit – Our bulk mailing permit is about to expire.  It will cost $180.00.  J. Ladd motioned to renew our bulk mailing permit.  Motion seconded by C. Cooley.  Motion carried.  (7) Computer Equipment – The Executive Board discussed the need for a new CPU and Monitor for the front offices.  It is a recommendation of the Executive Board to purchase a new CPU and flat screen monitor, not to exceed $600.00 plus tax.  E. Odle so moved.  Motion seconded by A. Rodriguez.  Motion carried.  (8) NRP – National Reassessment Program.  This program will affect carriers, and other craft employees, who are on Limited Duty or OWPC.  If management calls you in to talk to you, make sure you have Mitch Terral with you.  If they make you a job offer, you have two weeks to get back with them.  You do not have to accept the offer at the time.  (9)  Mileage for Building Manager – The building manager is required to come to the union hall on Sunday after the building has been rented, to inspect the building and to clean, if necessary.  E. Odle motioned to pay the building manager mileage when she comes to inspect the building on Sunday.  Motioned seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion was amended to pay the building manager mileage for one round trip to the union hall on Sunday when she comes to inspect the building. N. Cruz accepted the amendment.  Motion carried as amended.   

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Nomination of 2009-2010 Officers and Delegates to the 2009 Texas State Convention – Nominations for office of President:  Mitch Terral.  Mitch Terral was elected by acclimation.  Nominations for office of Vice-President:  Diane McCarty and Juan Baca.  Diane McCarty declined the nomination.  Juan Baca was elected by acclimation.  Nomination for office of Recording Secretary:  Penny Polk.  Penny Polk was elected by acclimation.  Nomination for office of Financial Secretary:  Fernando Small.  Fernando Small was elected by acclimation.  Nomination for office of Treasurer:  Karen Goad and Diane McCarty.  Diane McCarty declined the nomination.  Karen Goad was elected by acclimation.  Nominations for office of Editor:  Juan J. Ramirez, Jr.  Juan J. Ramirez, Jr., was elected by acclimation.  Nomination for office of Sgt. At Arms:  Troy Robles.  Troy Robles was elected by acclimation.  Nominations for office of Health Benefits Representative:  Eddie Odle.  Eddie Odle was elected by acclimation.  Nominations for three Trustee positions:  Jeremy Ladd, Norma Cruz, Tommy Chrestman, Paul Majors, and Charles Peterman.  Norma Cruz declined the nomination.  The nominations ceased.  The following members were nominated as Delegates to the 2009 Texas State Convention:  Mitch Terral, Tommy Chrestman, F. Small, Jeremy Ladd, Diane McCarty, Bill Froemel, Eddie Odle, Juan Baca, Karen Goad, Penny Polk, Andy Rodriguez, Ed Leaney, Norma Cruz, Charles Peterman, S. C. Cooley, Troy J. Robles, Howard J. Steffens, Juan J. Ramirez, Jr., and Mark Allen.  These 19 delegates were elected by acclimation.  Pending Paul Majors’ acceptance of his nomination to the office of Trustee, there will be an election for three Trustees.  The election will be November 20, 2008, at the Union Hall from 3:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M.  Results will be announced at the November 20^th meeting.  (2) COLCPE – F. Small stressed how important it is to donate to COLCPE.  (3)  T E Break – The TE’s are showing up on the “Separation List” after their break.  We may have to sign them up for membership again.  (4) Financial Secretary’s Report – The Financial Secretary’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  C. Cooley moved to pay the bills as presented in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  (5)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s is published in the Newsletter.  (6)  Receipts for Fall School – Your motel and gas receipts must be turned in to Karen within 30 days or you will be required to return the funds that were paid to you by the Branch. (7)  Delegates to the 2009 Convention – F. Small needs to know your choice of room accommodations as soon as possible.  We need to start making reservations.   (8) $140.00 Membership Drawing – Jeffery Lee Price’s name was drawn for October, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $150.00 next month.  (9) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – T. Robles won for October.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:10 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

SEPTEMBER 18, 2008

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:06 P.M.  The invocation was given by N. Cruz.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except P. Majors.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the September Executive Board and Steward meetings.  M. Allen was added to the Steward list due to working late.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the September, 2008, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  The Branch received the following:  (1) Order forms from Mail Call for Christmas “thank you” post cards from “your letter carrier”;  (2) Notice of Arthritis Expo 2008, on Saturday, October 4, 2008, at the Science Spectrum, 10:00 A.M to 1:00 P.M., free admission;  (3) Texas AFL-CIO August, 2008, Newsletter; (4) News on Wheels July Newsletter from Meals on Wheels; (5)Union People Products Catalogue; and  (6) Cedarstream Union Products Catalogue.  

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership:  Richard Allen Napier from Monterey Station.  T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) Political – E. Odle reported tentative plans to go to Washington D. C. in March, 2009.  Eddie has contacted Rick Noriega headquarters to see if he would come speak to the unions in Lubbock.  We are working with Texas AFL-CIO to get Joe Heflin reelected.  (2) HBR – E. Odle reported a retiree had some problems with his insurance card.  You must use the card with the “U” on the front.  The Health Benefits Seminar is September 28 – 30^th. If you want Eddie to check on anything for you, you must fill out a HIPAA form.  Eddie has the forms.  He also has more “Personal Health Records” forms, if you don’t have a computer.  (3)  TSALC – The COP will meet January 10, 2009, at the Sheraton Grand in Dallas, Texas.  The Texas State Convention is tentatively set for June 22-26, 2009, in Dallas. (4)  MDA – No report.     

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: (1) Shredding Service – Several months ago the branch approved using a shredding service to dispose of old files and records.  The branch approved two bins at $50.00 each. The second bin is full and we need to call the company to come pick it up.  We are going need a third bin to finish disposing of all old files and records.  T. Chrestman motioned to pay $50.00 for another bin.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion Carried.  We will tell them to bring another bin when they pick up the full one.  (2)  Calendars – Turn in orders and money for calendars tonight.  (3)  Route Counts – Discussed the Muleshoe count.  We will request information from the units that have just counted.  We have set up a count team.  The members are Mitch Terral, Diane McCarty, Norma Cruz, Juan Baca, Ed Leaney, Mark Allen and stewards at the AO’s being counted.  E. Odle motioned to pay the count team members $20.00 per hour, up to $200.00 per unit.  Motion seconded by E. Leaney.  Motion carried.  (5) T E Uniforms – Everything has been approved, but nothing has been paid.  Mary Tenorio is still selling uniforms.  (6) Painting outside of Building – T. Robles asked if we have another bid on painting the building.  Frank Caro told Diane McCarty he would paint the building for free, if we furnished the paint and did the preparation.  C. Cooley motioned to let Frank Caro paint the building.  Motion seconded by M. Allen.  There was discussion about who would do the preparation.  What the cost of that would be.  We don’t have a bid on pointing up the building.  K. Goad made a motion to table until we get more information.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion tabled.     

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Grievance – A grievance was filed for the weeks of the National Convention for open slots that were not released at four stations.  Two slots will be opened for bid at those stations.  (2)  Installation Committee – Bill Froemel is the Chairman of the Installation Committee.  Committee members are E. Odle, A. Sears, S. Deleon and P. Stephens.  Volunteers added to the committee were J. Baca and J. Ladd. The Banquet will be Saturday, November 22, 2008, at 7:00 P.M. at the Union Hall.  Brother Gary Mullins will be here to install the officers.  E. Odle will take care of the gift for Brother Mullins.  We will pay for his hotel or get a gift card.  (3)  Elections – Nominations for officers and delegates to the Texas State Convention are next month, October 16^th and elections are November 20^th.  (4)  Gas Allowance – Last month a motion was made and the members voted to increase the President’s gas allowance and to pay the Chief Shop Steward a gas allowance.  President Terral declared that motion out of order because the gas allowance for the President is a By-law and will require a By-law change to increase the amount.  E. Odle motioned to start paying the Chief Shop Steward a gas allowance of $20.00 per month beginning with August, 2008.  Motion seconded by M. Allen.  Motion carried.  (5)  Band – E. Odle suggested we ask the “My Dog Don’t Bite” Band to play before and after the Installation Banquet.  (6) Christmas Party – The Union Christmas party will be December 13, 2008, at 7:00 P.M. at the Union Hall.  It will be Pot Luck.  Don Sieler will make piñatas.  (7)  Copier – Holland’s Office Supply presented a proposal for a new copier to the Executive Board.  The purchase price of a new copier without a duplexer is $6,495.00.  The purchase price with the duplexer is $7,335.00.  The maintenance agreement is $25.00 per month.  If we lease the same copier over five years, the total cost would be about $10,000.00.  We asked for bids from two other companies, but they sent information on different, but similar, copiers.  The price was a little lower but the maintenance contract was much higher.  E. Odle motioned to purchase the copier with the duplexer from Holland’s Office Supply as soon as possible.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.   (8) Commendation – B. Froemel wanted to officially thank F. Small for the great job he did planning and coordinating the arrangements and travel plans for the delegates to Boston for the National Convention.  (9)  Mileage – E. Odle motioned to pay M. Allen mileage for attending the Route Count School on August 24, 2008.  Motion seconded by B. Froemel.  Motion carried.  (10) Membership Pins – D. Sieler asked about NALC Membership Pins to be presented to carriers.  We have requested 50 year pins and Gold Cards to be presented at the Installation Banquet.  We will look into getting pins for other years. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Attendance list – C. Cooley motioned to add D. Redman to the attendance list for tonight due hospitalization of her father.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  (2)  Work Night – There will be a work night next Thursday, September 25^th.  We have a lot of work to do.  (3) COLCPE – F. Small urged everyone to contribute to COLCPE.  We are getting raises and we need to be contributing to COLCPE.  (4)  Fall School – F. Small has made reservations for all stewards and officers for the fall school, except those who told him they are not going. If you are not going, let Fernando know as soon as possible.  (5) Financial Secretary’s Report – C. Cooley motioned to pay the bills as published in the September Newsletter.  Motion was seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.  (6) Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the Newsletter.  (7) 130.00 Membership Drawing – Lloyd W. Lancaster’s name was drawn for September, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $140.00 next month.  (8) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Larry De La Garza won for September.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:22 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

AUGUST 21, 2008

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by D. Redman.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except F. Small and P. Majors.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the August Executive Board and Steward meetings.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the August, 2008, Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried. 

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) The Branch received an acknowledgement of sympathy from the family of Joe R. Cox, Brother Howard Steffens’ father-in-law.   (2)  The Branch received June and July Newsletters from Texas AFL-CIO.  (3)  We received notice of a Health Benefit Seminar planned for September 28-30, 2008, at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.   

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There were no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle gave a report on “Personal Health Records” and explained how to get yours on line.  You can make one for everyone in the family and take it with you when you go to the doctor.  Go to our website, nalcbranch2589.org and click on Links and then click on Health Benefit Plan on the far right.  Then click “Not Registered?” or “Login” at top right of page.  There have been a lot of changes to the HBP.  Our goal is to be at least as good as Blue Cross/Blue Shield.  We had not planned to have a Health Benefits Seminar this year, so we did not budget for anyone to go.  Because of the changes, there will be a Seminar in September.  We have approved $1,000.00 in the past.  N. Cruz motioned to pay E. Odle $1000.00 to attend the Health Benefits Seminar.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  K. Goad pointed out that we are paying mileage and per diem now.  N. Cruz amended her motion to pay E. Odle mileage and per diem to go the Health Benefits Seminar.  Amendment accepted by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.  (2)  MDA – Due to a lack of participation, the Bowl-a-thon was cancelled.  J. Ladd motioned to donate $500.00 from branch funds to MDA.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  With so many people planning to be out of town for Labor Day, we will not participate in the MDA Labor Day Telethon. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) Route Counts – We discussed the route count schedule for Lubbock and surrounding offices.  We will have a route count school here at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, August 24th, 2008.  This needs to be announced at the stations.  (2)  Estimates – We only have one estimate for painting the outside of the building.  At this time, we do not have an estimate on pointing it up.  (3)  Overtime Tracking – They are working on the new overtime tracking program.  We will have training as soon as the program is finished.     

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Route Posting – The latest posting of the Sunset T-6 position was posted with the wrong routes.  A “suspense item” was sent out today requesting management to change route 1658 to 1657 and give standup talks about this on Friday and Monday.  We don’t want to repost it.  (2)  Highlighters – We need pink, blue and yellow highlighters and we need a lot of them.  (3)  T E Uniforms – All TE’s should have received their letter and ordered their uniforms.  (4)  Contract – The new bound copies of the contract came in.  We ordered one for each officer and steward and a few extra.  They are $3.00 each for members.  (5)  Gas Allowance – E. Odle motioned to increase the President’s gas allowance from $20.00 to $30.00 a month and pay the Chief Shop Steward a gas allowance of $30.00 a month.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  (6)  Color Coded Calendars – It is time to order calendars.  Stewards or an appointee will be in charge of taking orders and collecting money at each station.  Calendars are $3.50 each and must be paid for in advance.  The orders and money need to be turned in by the September union meeting.  The Branch provides one calendar for each officer and steward and one for the break room at each station.  (7)  Work night – There will be a work night on Thursday, August 29^th.  If you need to make up a meeting, two work nights make up one meeting.  

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – Fernando is not here to talk to you about COLCPE, but, if you have not signed up for the automatic deduction, you need to.  Also, you need to sign up for E-Activist.  It is easy and informative.  (2)  National Convention – We heard reports and comments on the National Convention in Boston.  K. Goad needs your receipts.  She needs in a hotel receipt and gas receipts or airline receipt for each delegate.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report – T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills as published in the August Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  (4)  Treasurer’s Report – The Treasurer’s Report is published in the August newsletter.   (5) $120.00 Membership Drawing – H. L. Futch, Jr.,’s name was drawn for August, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $130.00 next month.  (6) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – A. Rodriguez won for August. 

Meeting was adjourned at 7:43 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

JULY 17, 2008

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by N. Cruz.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present except F. Small, E. Odle, J. Ramirez, Jr., and P. Majors.  Members added to the list tonight are:  F. Small, death in the family; H. Steffens, death in the family; E. Odle, family illness; and T. Magallanes, who took his daughter to Colorado for rehab. M. Terral read the attendance list for the July Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No names were added to either list.  T. Chrestman moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the July, 2008, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by A. Sears.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  We received the May, 2008, Newsletter from Texas AFL-CIO.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There were no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) MDA – J. Ladd reported that we did get the four $50.00 gift cards from United for prizes for the 1^st Place Team.  Several people have suggested we have prizes for the 2^nd and 3^rd Place Teams, also.  The MDA office suggested contacting Bahama Bucks.  They like to get involved in things like this.  J. Ladd motioned that we give one month free advertisement for any business that donates prizes for the 2^nd and 3^rd Place Teams.  Motion seconded by C. Peterman.  Motion carried.  Flier/sign up sheets for the Bowl-a-thon have been distributed to all of the stations.  We need to have the signup sheets turned in by the last week of July.  (2) HBR – M. Terral gave the HBR report in E. Odle’s absence.  Eddie has correspondence from Ms. Lindy Lauderdale telling him that it is her understanding that the situation should be resolved for NALC Health Benefit members to use Covenant HealthPlus as an urgent care center.  Eddie called HealthPlus and was assured that all of their doctors fall under NALC Health Benefits Plan.  However, he could not get the names to show up through CIGNA.  It can take four to six weeks for changes to show up.  We believe we can use HealthPlus as an Urgent Care Center and if there are any problems, Ms. Lauderdale will work them out.  Eddie will meet with these people in Boston.  Dr. Chavez has a walk in clinic at 52^nd and University that is open late.     

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  No unfinished business was brought to the floor.

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Route Counts – They are counting Midwest in September or October and will count either Downtown or Monterey, also.  They are still planning to count all of the AO’s.  Floydada may be counted September 6, 2008.  (2)  Deposit Refund – Someone rented the building and had to cancel at the last minute because she had to attend her granddaughter’s funeral.  She brought us the obituary.  The Executive Board recommends refunding her deposit.  E. Leaney motioned to refund her deposit.  Motion seconded by A. Rodriguez.  Motion carried.  (3)  Rental Agreement – The Executive Board also discussed making a change in the rental agreement that if you get caught with the doors propped open, you will have a $50.00 charge assessed from your deposit.  R. Urias motioned to have that language added to the Rental Agreement.  Motion Seconded by D. Sieler.  (4)  Painting the Building – T. Robles had RDX Renovators, from his route, look at the building.  They submitted a bid for $4,841 to paint the outside of the building.  D. McCarty will contact someone for another bid.  M. Terral will get a bid from a mason to point up the building.  (5) New SOP – The new SOP is out and is in every office.  Every carrier should have one.  You can tell if you have the new one by looking at Anonymous Mail.  The new SOP says 13 ounces, not 16 ounces.  (6)  AFL-CIO – We pay dues for sixteen members (officers and stewards) to be members of AFL-CIO.  It is $179.20 a year and is due.  C. Cooley motioned to pay AFL-CIO dues for sixteen members in the amount of $179.20.  Motioned seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  (7)  Manual Bidding - The Automated Bidding Systems are not available from July 19, 2008, through July 24, 2008, due to a HCE System upgrade.  We will be bidding manually during that time, using Form 1717, the pink Bid Card.  You will have to get the card to Kay Ramon.  Bids that are posted during this time will have instructions on them.  (8)  Floydada – We received official notice that they are holding a position in Floydada.  (9) OT Tracking – We have a new overtime tracking system.  We will set up some training for the new system. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) COLCPE – If you are not on the “Gimme 5” list, you need to be.  (2)  Audit – T. Chrestman reported that the Trustees did audit the books and they look terrific and they balanced. K. Goad received a round of applause.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report - C. Cooley moved to pay the bills as published in the Newsletter.  The motion was seconded by T. Chrestman.  The motion carried.  (4)  Treasurer’s Report – Treasurer’s Report was accepted as published in the Newsletter.  (5) $310.00 Membership Drawing – Lloyd Lancaster’s name was drawn for July, but he was not present to win.  The $100.00 drawings were won by Roy Estrada and Burl Bowerman.  The Membership drawing will be for $120.00 next month.  (6) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Tara Garza won for July.  (7)  Work night – No work night next week. 

Meeting was adjourned at 7:45 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

JUNE 19, 2008

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:05 P.M.  The invocation was given by P. Polk. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present.  N. Cruz moved to add Andy Rodriguez to the attendance list for tonight due to a family emergency.  Motion seconded by J. Rivere.  Motion carried.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the June 12, 2008, Executive Board and Steward Meetings.  T. Chrestman moved to add Tommy Magallanes to the Steward Meeting attendance list due to a family situation.  Motion seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  D. Quattlebaum moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the June, 2008, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried. 

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Meals on Wheels – We received a donation card from Meals on Wheels.  If anyone would like to make a personal donation, you may have the card. (2) Texas AFL-CIO – We received the April, 2008, Newsletter.  (3) MUG Resolution –We received information from Branch 351, Olympia, WA, about the Male Unbifurcated Garment (MUG) Resolution which will be introduced at National.  It is a resolution to add a new item of clothing for men to the approved uniform items.  It is, essentially, a kilt. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  There were no applications for membership.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle reported that he is getting the runaround on getting an Urgent Care Center at Covenant.  He is still working on it.  (2)  Political – E. Odle reported we will not be going to Washington, D.C., this year.  We probably will not be able to get pay for our delegates who attended the Texas State Democratic Convention.  (3) MDA – The Bowl-a-thon is still set for Sunday, August 10, 2008.  The cost of having posters made was prohibitive.  Jeremy and Fernando will get together and make flyers on the computer.  Be sure and spread the word.  There are 42 lanes and we can have 42 teams.  Jeremy reported that he contacted United to ask about donating four $50.00 gift cards to give to the winning team.  They have not returned his calls.  He will try again this week.  (4)  Secretary’s Report – As of pay period ten, we have 14 associate members.  We have 171 active regular carriers, 1 PTR, 18 PTF’s, 5 TE’s, 6 other craft active members, for a total of 201 active carriers.  We have 110 regular retired members, 5 Life Members, 1 retired PTF, and 14 other craft retirees, for a total of 130 retired members.  The total membership of Branch 2589 is 346.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) New Contracts – We have ordered 30 new contracts.  (2) Membership Drawing – The Membership Drawing has reached $300.00.  The Executive Board discussed this and made the following recommendation:  If no one wins the June drawing tonight, the drawing for the July 17^th Meeting will be $310.00.  If no wins the $310.00, there will be two $100.00 drawings from the membership in attendance at the July Meeting.  Then, the drawing for the August Meeting will be $120.00.  E. Odle motioned to accept the Board’s recommendation.  Motion was seconded by D. Villalobos.  There was some discussion.  Motion carried.  (3)  By-Laws – The proposed By-Law changes were approved by National and have been incorporated into our By-Laws.  We do have copies and the new By-Laws will be on our website soon.  (4)  Branch Polo or T-shirts – T. Magallanes said we need to make a decision on the shirts if we want to have them for the National Convention.  No motion was made regarding the purchase of shirts by the branch.  (5)  Posting of Routes – D. Villalobos asked why it took so long for routes to be posted and awarded.  There was a discussion on this. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Bulk Mailing Permit – K. Goad reported we are almost out of money.  N. Cruz motioned to add $200.00 to the Bulk Mailing Permit.  Motion seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  (2)  Personal Items at Case – An arbitration was made available on this subject.  You are permitted to have personal items at your case.  However, it cannot be political in nature or anything that could be deemed inappropriate in anyway.  (3)  Route Counts – Notices are coming that the AO’s will be counted.  (4)  Harold Snider – M. Terral announced that Harold Snider has had quintuple bypass surgery.  The doctors say he is extremely healthy and should be fine.  N. Cruz motioned to send flowers.  Motion seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried.  (5)  Office Allowance – F. Small has a $200.00 monthly allowance to purchase office equipment and supplies.  Fernando made an out of pocket purchase for the branch in the amount of $179.69.  There is a recommendation from the Executive Board to reimburse him. N. Cruz moved to reimburse F. Small, if he provides a receipt.  Motion seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  (6) Fans – Another recommendation of the Executive Board is to purchase four additional wall mounted fans:  two for the center room and one for each of the other two offices.  E. Odle moved to purchase four wall mounted fans.  Motion seconded by J. Rivere. Motion carried.  (7)  PEG Audit – We discussed the PEG Audit at Singer Station.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION:  (1) David Huerta – J. Baca announced that Brother David Huerta had a stroke.  Please keep Brother Huerta and his family in your thoughts and prayers.  (2)  Move – C. Peterman asked when the routes will be moved to Murray Hill.  The move is scheduled for the beginning of the fiscal year, which is October 1, 2008.   (3)  Serving Our Country – D. McCarty introduced Eppie Garza, Sister Tara Garza’s husband, as a guest tonight, along with their children.  He is home after his second tour of duty in Iraq.  He received a round of applause.   (4) Rick Noriega – F. Small announced that Rick Noriega will run against Senator John Cornyn.  Senator Cornyn voted against more benefits for our veterans.  Major Noriega just came from Iraq.  He is a Major in the National Guard.  He will be in Lubbock on June 24.  Come out and support him. (5)  COLCPE – Give to COLCPE.  We need your money.  (6)  Financial Secretary’s Report – A copy of the Financial Secretary’s Report was distributed to the membership.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills as shown on the report.  The motion was seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  (7)  Treasurer’s Report – K. Goad read the May Treasurer’s Report.   (8) $300.00 Membership Drawing – Brandy Lowrance’s name was drawn for June, but she was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $310.00 next month.   (9) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Mitch Terral won for June.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M. 

Respectfully submitted,

MAY 15, 2008

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:00 P.M.  The invocation was given by H. Steffens. The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the May Executive Board and Steward meetings.  No additional names were added to either list.  E. Leaney will be added to the attendance list for tonight due to illness.  E. Odle motioned to send E. Leaney flowers.  Motion seconded by A. Sears.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the May, 2008, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) We received a Thank You card for expression of sympathy from Brother Carrol Blackburn and family on the death of his brother, Gene Blackburn.  (2) We received a Thank You card for expression of sympathy from Brother Cliff “Fergie” Ferguson on the death of his mother.  (3) We received an acknowledgement from VistaCare Hospice for our contribution in honor of Ruby Lee Ferguson, Brother Cliff Ferguson’s mother.  (4) Texas AFL-CIO March, 2008, Newsletter.  (5)  HBR Report for April/May 2008.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership:  Ana San Miguel.  T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle reported that N. Cruz has some provider nomination forms.  We currently do not have an urgent care facility in Lubbock.  If you would like to nominate a facility, get one of the forms from N. Cruz.  F. Small reported there could be some problems when you see a doctor for the first time because of the change to CIGNA.  Make sure they enter the correct information when they are checking to see if they are on the plan.  Make sure you use the correct card.   (2)  District Three Meeting – Diane McCarty, President of the meeting was there.  There was a discussion on the OIG and medical forms.  If you believe your doctor has released medical information without your permission, contact E. Odle.  We are working on getting our delegates to the Texas State Democratic Convention paid.  Emre Edwards will attend a Central Labor Counsel meeting.  She will see what other Branches do.  In regard to a trip to Washington, D.C., we may go in April of 2009.  (3)  MDA – J. Ladd reported the Bowl-a-Thon will be on Sunday, August 10, 2008, from 2:00 – 4:00 P.M.  It will be at South Plains Bowl at 69^th & Slide.  There will be four people to a team and the cost is $100.00 a team to bowl.  South Plains Bowl will get $25.00.  The shoes will be free.  MDA will get $75.00 for each team.  Jeremy has submitted a request to United for four $50.00 Gift Cards to use as prizes for the winning team.  We will also have a 50/50 raffle during the Bowl-a-Thon as an extra fund raiser.  When we find out about the gift cards, we will get the information posted on our web site and have flyers made.  If you bowl in a league, ask other league members if they would like to participate.  Let your friends, family and church family know about this event.  Anyone can participate.  (4)  Food Drive – C. Peterman could not be here tonight.  M. Terral reported that we have collected 104,000 pounds of food and they expect the total to be over 110,000 pounds.  The plastic sacks United donated made a big difference.  We plan to collect only on the Saturday of the National Food Drive next year.  We are working on getting bags for the entire city and the AO’s.  We will coordinate with the Food Banks in the AO’s.   We will coordinate with the Lubbock Food Bank to thank United for donating the bags. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  (1) OTDL Day Off – The policy of not working OTDL people on their day off has been rescinded in most areas, but not yet in the Ft. Worth District.  National is on this.  E. Odle suggested we call Gene and ask to be put in intervention.  (2)  Routes Awarded – The routes that did not get posted Downtown have been posted and awarded.  Monterey Route 1004 went no bid.  Napier was assigned to it. 

NEW BUSINESS:  (1) Contract Published – M. Terral received a complimentary copy of the new contract which has been printed.  They are $3.00 each.  It was a recommendation of the Executive Board to order 20 Contracts for the officers and stewards. We discussed ordering more than 20 so members could purchase them.   N. Cruz motioned to order 30 Contracts.  Motion was seconded by E. Odle.  Motion carried. (2)  Rent – The Executive Board made a recommendation to raise the rent for the building from $475.00 to $500.00.  This would be for non-members.  There was discussion.  E. Odle moved to raise the rent to $500.00.  The motion was seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  (3) Managers – They will be moving station managers and supervisors around as of Monday.  (4) Thrifty Nickel Ad – K. Goad reported our ad in the Thrifty Nickel is about to run out.  It will cost $276.00 to renew.  N. Cruz moved to renew the ad in the Thrifty Nickel.  The motion was seconded by T. Chrestman.  Motion carried. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Shirts – T. Magallanes is still checking on places to order t-shirts or polo shirts.  He is looking at WorkPlace Pro now and has printed some information.  Their web site does not say they are union made.  We may get the blue polo shirts from National.  Designs in Thread say they have union made polo shirts.  (2)  Thank you – B. Froemel said he would like to thank everyone who comes out to work on Work Night.  (3)  National Convention – F. Small stated that the Convention is only a couple of months away.  That only leaves a month to cancel room reservations or flights.  If any Delegate needs to cancel a room or a flight, Fernando needs to know by the end of May.  Do we want to rent a car or a van?  If so, see Fernando immediately following tonight’s meeting.  Delegates do get one day off during the week of the National Convention.  You are expected to attend all of the other meetings.  (4)  Work Night – Next Thursday, May 22, 2008, is work night.  (5)  Retiree Breakfast – B. Bowerman announced the next retiree breakfast is Saturday, May 31, 2008.  He needs a key to the lock.  The old lock is back on the gate.  (6) COLCPE – F. Small mentioned the fact that we will be getting cost of living raises which will be more than expected due to the increase in gasoline prices.  You need to donate $5.00 per pay period or $10.00 a month to COLCPE.  Defend yourself by donating $10.00 a month to COLCPE to defend your job.  (7) Chairs – We still have chairs for sale.  T. Chrestman motioned if you buy five chairs, you get the sixth chair free.  The motion was seconded by T. Magallanes.  Motion carried. (8) Parking at Midwest – N. Cruz stated that several employees’ personal vehicles have been vandalized at Midwest Station during work hours.  (9) Financial Secretary’s Report - F. Small read the bills for the month of April.  N. Cruz moved to pay the bills.  The motion was seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  (10) Treasurer’s Report – K. Goad read the April Treasurer’s Report.  (11) $290.00 Membership Drawing – John A. Lynn’s name was drawn for May, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $300.00 next month.  (12) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – D. Quattlebaum won the Attendance Drawing for May.  

Meeting was adjourned at 8:17 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

 APRIL 17, 2008

The Regular Branch Meeting of NALC Branch 2589, Lubbock, Texas, was called to order by President Mitch Terral at 7:05 P.M.  The invocation was given by N. Cruz.  The membership then said the Pledge of Allegiance.  The roll call of officers was taken.  All officers were present.  M. Terral read the attendance list for the April Executive Board and Steward meetings.  E. Odle motioned to add Paul Majors to the Executive Board Attendance List.  Motion seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  E. Odle moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting as published in the April, 2008, Newsletter.  The motion seconded by J. Ladd.  Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS:  (1) Thank you card for expression of sympathy from Brother Cliff “Fergie” Ferguson.  Brother Ferguson’s father passed away March 23, 2008, and his mother passed away April 10, 2008.  (2)  Thank you card for expression of sympathy from Marcos Ybarra and family.  Mrs. Maria Ybarra, Brother Juan “JJ” Ramirez, Jr.’s mother-in-law, passed away April 1, 2008.  (3)  We received a letter from Hospice of Lubbock acknowledging a gift in memory of W.H. Ferguson, Brother Cliff Ferguson’s father.  (4)  We received a letter from VistaCare Hospice acknowledging a gift in memory of Ernest G. Blackburn, Brother J. Carroll Blackburn’s brother.  (5)  March, 2008, NALC Activist Newsletter.  (6)  “News on Wheels” April, 2008, Meals on Wheels newsletter. 

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP:  We have one application for membership:  Michal “Micki” Carreon.  T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership.  The motion was seconded by A. Sears.  Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:  (1) HBR – E. Odle said there was nothing to report.  Call E. Odle if you have any problems.  (2)  Political – The District Three Meeting is this Sunday (April 20, 2008) in Childress, Texas.  Diane McCarty, President of the meeting, will be going to Childress.  Let her know if you want to go and would like to ride with her.  E. Odle motioned to pay D. McCarty mileage.  N. Cruz seconded the motion.  Motion carried.  Ken Claxton will be there.  Politically, we will discuss going to Washington, D.C. and trying to find a way to pay for our people to go to the Texas State Democratic Convention in Austin, Texas.   (3)  Flower Committee – K. Goad asked that you contact her if you know of a Branch Member or a family member of a Branch Member who has passed away.  It is hard for her to recognize some family members, especially if they have a different last name.  (4)  MDA – J. Ladd reported he received a letter from Southwest Airlines.  They are not going to donate airline tickets this year.  Jeremy has talked with the manager at Brunswick Bowl. He would like to help MDA by having a “Bowl-a-thon” fundraiser.  They are to meet Monday.  A tentative date of August 10, 2008, has been set.  MDA will get some packets together to help get businesses to sponsor the Bowl-a-thon.  (5)  By-Law Committee – T. Chrestman presented seven proposed By-Law Changes to the membership to be voted on.  All proposed changes have been signed by three members from three different stations, were read into the minutes of the last meeting and are recommended for approval by the By-Law Committee.  T. Chrestman read the proposed change for Article VII, Section 7 (A).   E. Odle motioned for approval.  Motion was seconded by T. Magallanes.  Motion carried.  The proposed change for Article IV, Section 1 was read.  E. Odle motioned for approval.  Motion was seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  The proposed change for Article IV, Section 3 was read.  D. Quattlebaum motion for approval.  Motion seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  Proposed change for Article VIII, Section 2 was read.  E. Odle motioned for approval.  Motion seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  Proposed change for Article VIII, Section 3 was read.  N. Cruz motioned for approval.  Motion seconded by A. Sears.  Motion carried.  Proposed change for Article IX, Section 2 was read.  H. Steffens motioned for approval.  Motion seconded by C. Peterman.  Motion carried.  Proposed change for Article X, Section 1 was read.  E. Odle motioned for approval.  Motion seconded by A. Sears.  Motion carried. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  No unfinished business was brought to the floor. 

NEW BUSINESS:   (1) Return to office scan – M. Terral reported some supervisors have told carriers to scan back to the office as soon as you get back from your route.  That is wrong.  Carriers scan the return barcode at the same time they swipe their badge “move to office”, after putting away equipment and taking a break.  (2) Downtown Route Postings – Routes should go up next week.  We are working on getting manual posting and bidding back.  (3)  Ceiling Tile – We are going to replace all of the ceiling tiles.  When we do, we will have to dispose of the old tiles.  K. Goad called some container companies to get the cost of bringing out a container to put the old tiles in and haul them away.  The price ranges from $225.00 to $240.00.  N. Cruz motioned to pay no more than $250.00 to a container company for the disposal of old tile.  Motion seconded by R. Nettles.  (4)  Work Night – T. Chrestman announced a work night next Thursday, April 24, 2008.  There is a lot of work to do.  (5)  Customer Connect – D. McCarty introduced our special guest, Cindy Parker.  Ms. Parker is a small business specialist with Customer Connect.  She explained Customer Connect, our roll as carriers and goals the USPS has for Customer Connect.  She then took questions from the membership.  (6)  Food Drive/Food Bank – C. Peterman introduced special guests, David Weaver and Lynn Garcia from the South Plains Food Bank.  They presented Branch 2589 with a beautiful plaque for sixteen years of dedication to the food drive and the Food Bank from 1992-2008.  A hand out was distributed to the membership to let us know what the Food Bank does with the food we collect.  They also want us to know that we do make a difference in the lives of people who need help.  A copy of the Food Bank’s newsletter “Manna” was also distributed.  C. Peterman reported that the post cards and thank you cards for the Food Drive have been taken care of.  (7)  E-mail Account for Cell Phone – Most of the Branch President’s correspondence is done by e-mail now.  The Executive Board discussed paying for a cell phone e-mail account for the President of Branch 2589.  The service is about $40.00 a month.  The recommendation of the Executive Board is to pay for cell phone e-mail service for the Branch President’s phone.  M. Terral would purchase the phone himself.  There was discussion.  E. Odle motioned to spend $40.00 a month for an e-mail account on the Branch President’s cell phone.  Motion seconded by J. Revere.  There was more discussion.  F. Small proposed an amendment of $50.00, because the $40.00 does not include taxes and fees.  E. Odle amended his motion to spend $50.00 a month for an e-mail account on the Branch President’s cell phone.  J. Revere accepted the amendment.  Motion carried.  (8)  National Convention – (a) Sight Seeing – F. Small referenced the article in the April Postal Record about attractions in and around Boston.  Delegates need to let Fernando know if you want to make plans to go sight seeing as a group.  If so, the Delegates need to get together and go over this information.  (b) Housing – We did not get any of the hotels we requested.  Our delegates will be staying at The Colonnade.  Shuttle service will be available.  (c) Proposed Resolution – B. Anderson would like to see a way for letter carriers to let our brothers and sisters know when we have had bad experiences with a business or company.  He suggested having something in our local newsletter and would like to see it go to the National level with a section in the Postal Record devoted to this.  M. Terral will check out liability issues, if we publish something like this in The Lubbock Letter Carrier. 

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Old Chairs – D. Redman said a member asked her if he could get a discount on the old chairs, if he purchased all of the remaining chairs tonight.  There was a lot of discussion about this.  There are members present who are interested in purchasing chairs tonight.  H. Steffens motioned to sell “him” all of the remaining chairs for $2.00 each, after tonight.  Motion was seconded by R. Nettles.  Motion failed.  E. Odle motioned that all chairs are now $2.00 each.  Motion seconded by J. Ladd.  F. Small amended the motion to require “him” (the member D. Redman spoke with) to purchase all of the remaining chairs for $2.00 each.  E. Odle accepted the amendment. J. Ladd accepted the amendment.  Motion failed.  E. Odle motioned that all chairs are now $2.00 each.  Motion seconded by T. Magallanes.  Motion carried.  (2)  Welder – T. Chrestman needs to borrow a welder so he can finish some work on the workday.  If anyone has a welder, contact T. Chrestman.  (3) Financial Secretary’s Report - F. Small read the bills for the month of March.  E. Odle moved to pay the bills.  The motion was seconded by D. Quattlebaum.  Motion carried.  (4)  Treasurer’s Report – K. Goad read the March Treasurer’s Report.  (5) Copy Paper – K. Goad motioned to reimburse Juan J. Ramirez, Jr., $8.90 for copy paper he purchased to print the newsletter.  Motion was seconded by N. Cruz.  Motion carried.  (6) $280.00 Membership Drawing – Robby J. Mitchell’s name was drawn for April, but he was not present to win.  This drawing will be for $290.00 next month.  (7) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – N. Cruz won for April.

Meeting was adjourned at 8:40P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

MARCH 20, 2008

COMMUNICATIONS: (1) Acknowledgment of memorial from St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in memory of Edith Golden, Brother Bill Edmonson’s mother-in-law. (2) Thank you card for expression of sympathy from Brother Cal and Monica Urias and family. (3) Texas AFL-CIO February, 2008, Newsletter.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP: We have one application for membership: Jeffery Lee Price from Freedom Station. T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership. The motion was seconded by T. Magallanes. Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: (1) HBR – E. Odle reported the situation with Lubbock Diagnostic. He has been in touch with Brother Timothy O’Malley and everything has been taken care of. If you have any questions or a problem, call Eddie Odle. (2) Political – E. Odle attended the State Board meeting in Austin. He reported on a motion and discussion about going to Washington, D.C. We will make a decision about Washington, D. C. at the District Three Meeting, Sunday, April 20th, 2008, at 9:00 A. M. The District Three Meeting will be at South Plains Electric, 1900 Avenue C NW, Childress, Texas. Eddie would like for several of our members to attend. D. McCarty is President of the Meeting. F. Small talked about delegates and alternates to the Lubbock County Democratic Convention. The Convention is 1:00 P.M. March 29, 2008, at Lubbock High School. (3) MDA – J. Ladd reported he has written a letter to Southwest Airlines asking them to donate airline tickets to use in our MDA Raffle. He has not heard from them. He is setting up a bowling fundraiser. It will be sometime in May. The information will be on our website when we have decided when and where.

(4) By-Law Committee – J. Ladd read the following proposed By-Law changes:

Proposed Change: Shop Stewards shall be elected within their respective Stations. Their duties shall be to guard the interests of the Branch in their particular Station under the direction of the Branch President or the Officers. Chief Steward shall be the President or an appointee.

Article VIII – Committees, Section 2. The Flower Committee shall consist of one (1) Branch member from each Station, with one (1) member designated as Chairperson. In the event of the death of a Branch member or one of his/her immediate family, this Committee shall secure appropriate floral offerings. Immediate family as used in this section shall mean the spouse and children living at home, mother or father. The cost of the flowers shall not exceed twenty-five dollars ($25.00).

Proposed Change: The Flower Committee shall consist of one (1) Branch member from each Station, with one (1) member designated as Chairperson. In the event of the death of a Branch member or one of his/her immediate family, this Committee shall secure appropriate floral offerings or memorial. Immediate family as used in this section shall mean the spouse, children, brother, sister, mother, father, grandparents or spouse’s mother, father, brother, sister, or grandparents. The cost of the flowers or memorial shall not exceed fifty dollars ($50.00).

Article VIII – Committees, Section 3. The Negotiations Committee shall consist of elected officials of this Branch and one (1) member from each Station appointed by the President. This Committee shall select members to bargain a Local Memorandum of Understanding for the offices in Lubbock, Levelland and Spur.

Proposed Change: The Negotiations Committee shall consist of elected officials of this Branch and one (1) member from each Station appointed by the President. This Committee shall select members to bargain a Local Memorandum of Understanding for the offices in Lubbock, Abernathy, Floydada, Littlefield, Levelland, Morton, Muleshoe, Plainview and Spur.

Article IX--Branch Funds, Section 2. Branch 2589 shall have four (4) types of accounts: (1) a General Account; (2) a Savings Account for general purchase use; (3) a MDA Account; and (4) a Building Maintenance Fund.

Shop Stewards - Lubbock, Abernathy, Floydada, Littlefield, Levelland,

Morton, Muleshoe, Plainview and Spur (each) 1.912%

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: (1) Food Drive – C. Peterman attended the first meeting for the Food Drive last week. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 24, 2008. We need to order posters. C. Peterman motioned to spend $25.00 on 50 Food Drive Posters. Motion was seconded by E. Odle. Motion carried. They are talking to United about having bags printed up. Need a coordinator for each town. Muleshoe will participate. We will check with Abernathy. Post cards have been ordered. We discussed the Thank-you cards. C. Peterman will have the information on T-shirts soon. (2) Customer Connect – We have Freedom, Monterey and Downtown in Customer Connect and the new expansion sites are Levelland, Singer, Midwest and Sunset. We need coordinators in each station. There is a meeting in Amarillo on March 26, 2008. The coordinators are going. (2) Plainview – The Vivian Finch matter is over. The checks will be written tonight and the account will be closed. (4) Chairs – We still have chairs for sale for $3.00. We also have one table left. (5) Installation Banquet – Our Installation Banquet will be Saturday, November 22, 2008, at 7:00 P.M. We have invited President Young to the Banquet and asked that he install our officers.

SPECIAL GUEST: Mayor David Miller was our special guest tonight. He handed out a booklet entitled First Things First. This information focused on Core Services, Effective Governance, Community and Economic Development. He talked about what we are getting for our tax dollars, the water supply, dog problems, the new animal shelter, road maintenance and other matters of interest. Mayor Miller then took questions from the membership.

NEW BUSINESS: (1) NRP – National Reassessment Program is in progress. This week they are in Phase II. (2) Contacting Management – There should be someone in management at all stations at all times. If this is not possible, a Postal Cell Phone number is to be given to the carriers. (3) 3 M Mail – These are the errors you find in DPS. If they are on your route and are first class, you are to deliver them. Errors for other routes, other stations and standard mail on your route, are to be taken back to your station and placed in the designated areas. Do not, under any circumstances, put 3 M Mail in the raw mail. (4) Route Data – All Route Base Data from DOIS and copies of most recent 1840’s need to be turned in ASAP. (5) Bond – We added more officers on the bond.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) Work Night – The next work night will be March 27, 2008, right after work. (2) Video – It will cost $0.12 a foot to copy to VHS and $30.00 to transfer to DVD. D. Sieler will bring this up at the Retiree Breakfast to see if anyone is interested in having this done. (3) Centennial Year – This is Lubbock’s Centennial and D. Sieler asked if anyone was interested in trying to get a couple of LLV’s and participating in the 4th on Broadway parade. No one was interested. (4) Branch Apparel – T. Magallanes reported on some prices he had obtained on Wind Breakers, Polo Shirts and T-Shirts. He believes Polo Shirts will be best deal for the money. He is still waiting on some prices for T-shirts. He will

FEBRUARY 21, 2008

COMMUNICATIONS: (1) "News on Wheels" – We received the Meals on Wheels January Newsletter. (2) AFLCIO – We received the Texas AFLCIO January Newsletter.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP: We have one application for membership: Carlos Rene Moreno from Muleshoe. T. Chrestman moved to accept this application for membership. The motion was seconded by T. Magallanes. Motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: (1) HBP – There is no report. (2) MDA – J. Ladd reported that the "Shamrock" fund raiser is going on. Several businesses are participating. You can add a donation to MDA when you make purchases from these businesses. They give you a Shamrock to sign. We are planning a Bowling Fundraiser in the spring. Jeremy has written Southwest Airlines about tickets to raffle. (3) Political – The Texas Primary is March 4, 2008. (4) By-Law Committee – The By-Law Committee has been working on revising our By-Laws. The committee has seven proposed changes. J. Ladd gave a report on changes to Article IV, Sec. 1; Article IV, Sec. 3; Article VII, Sec. 7; Article VIII, Sec. 2; Article VIII, Sec. 3; Article IX, Sec. 2; and, Article X, Sec 1. These proposed changes will be formally presented at the Regular Union Meeting in March, read into the Minutes of the March Meeting and voted on at the Regular Union Meeting in April.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: No unfinished business was brought to the floor.

NEW BUSINESS: (1) MRA – There will be Minor Route Adjustments at Midwest Station within the next two or three months. We are being told the MRA will be done jointly. (2) Auxiliary Dues – Auxiliary 1064 has requested help paying their dues in the amount of $105.00. It was a recommendation of the Executive Board that we do so. T. Chrestman motion to pay dues for Auxiliary 1064. Motion was seconded by N. Cruz. Motion carried unanimously. (3) Chairs – It was a recommendation of the Executive Board that we purchase 100 white chairs so we can get rid of all of the old brown ones. C. Peterman motioned to purchase 100 white chairs. Motion seconded by T. Chrestman. Motion carried. We have 13 old tables for sale for $5.00 each and 186 old brown chairs for sale for $3.00 each. (4) Night Out – Eddie and Paula Odle will be in town on Sunday March 2nd. We will be going to Abuelo’s Sunday evening at 6:30 P.M. (4) Installation Banquet – The Installation Banquet will be 7:00 P.M., Saturday, November 22, 2008, at the Union Hall. (5) New Doors – We need new doors on our storage room where we keep uniforms and the pool table. The doors are hollow and are falling apart. C. Cooley motioned to purchase two solid core doors with floor bolt. Motion seconded by T. Chrestman. It was pointed out that the doors to the room where we store the tables need to be replaced also. C. Cooley amended his motion to purchase four solid core doors. T. Chrestman accepted this amendment. Motion carried. (6) Plainview

Bids – The bids in Plainview were discussed. (7) Branch Apparel – T. Magallanes said he would like to see us purchase shirts or windbreakers or something with our Branch Logo on it. It would be something we could give new members and wear to schools. We discussed polo shirts and a few other ideas. T. Magallanes will gather information and report back to the Branch.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – F. Small urged everyone to come forward and contribute. He said he has used about every analogy he can think of, but said to try this one. You are on the Titanic and it is sinking. The only way to get on board the last life boat is to contribute to COLCPE. What are you going to do? (2) Work Day – The next work day is February 28th, right after work. T. Chrestman and P. Majors are in charge. Participation in work days can be used to make up missed meetings. (3) Retiree Breakfast – B. Bowerman announced the Retire Breakfast is February 23, 2008. (4) March 4th Primary – C. Cooley talked about the Texas Primary System. If you vote in the Democratic Primary, it is important to attend your precinct caucus at 7:15 on March 4th. The nominee for President is decided by votes and a caucus. (5) Party Committee – M. Terral has appointed a Party Committee. They will be presenting some ideas and dates for activities. (6) National Convention – If you are NOT going to the National Convention in Boston, we need to know ASAP. (7) Financial Secretary’s Report – F. Small read the bills for the month of January. T. Chrestman moved to pay the bills. The motion was seconded by N. Cruz. Motion carried. (8) Treasurer’s Report – K. Goad read the January Treasurer’s Report. (9) $260.00 Membership Drawing – Ronnie McClellan’s name was drawn for February, but he was not present to win. This drawing will be for $270.00 next month. (10) $15.00 Attendance Drawing – Tara Garza won for February.

JANUARY 17, 2008

COMMUNICATIONS: (1) Note of Thanks for Sympathy from Mrs. Paula Small, the Small Family and Hall Family. (2) New Designs Catalogue from Cedarstream. (3) MDA November Newsletter. (4) Texas AFL-CIO Newsletters for October, November and December. (5) Activist November Newsletter (6) December HBR Report. (7) An announcement for the Texas 2nd Annual Charity Sporting Clay Shoot, March 6, 2008, in San Antonio, Texas, benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. (8) Christmas cards from our NBA Office, J. E. Murfee & Son, and Meals on Wheels. (9) Invitation to the Grand Opening of Holland’s Office Technologies on January 24, 2008.

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP: We have four applications for membership: Jenaro Zapata, III; Tim Ryan Jackson; Matt Harvey; and Bruce Schafer. T. Chrestman moved to accept these applications for membership. The motion was seconded by N. Cruz. Motion carried unanimously. We also have a new member, Brother Jon Attaway, from Abernathy Branch 6570. Branch 6570 Abernathy is a suspended branch and is now merged with Branch 2589, per communication from NALC President Young.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: (1) HBR – E. Odle sent his report. M. Terral gave the report in E. Odle’s absence. The new HBP is now in effect under CIGNA HealthCare. Eddie is still working on Lubbock Diagnostic Radiology. There is no urgent care at 4000 – 24th Street. That is Covenant Lake Side Women and Children’s Hospital. (2) Political – Make sure you are registered to vote on Super Tuesday. (3) MDA – J. Ladd said there is nothing coming up in the next two or three months. The MDA Coordinator has not been in touch with him. If you have any ideas for fund raisers, please contact Jeremy Ladd. (4) Secretary’s Report – P. Polk reported we now have 15 Associate Members, 197 Active Members and 126 Retired Members, for a total of 338 Members of Branch 2589. This is as of pay period 25/2007. (5) Del Rio School and Convention – F. Small wants those attending the Spring School to know, if you are going to fly to Del Rio it will cost you out of pocket for the difference in the cost of the airline ticket and the mileage the Branch budgeted to pay. Also, you will need a Pass Port if you attend planned activities in Mexico. F. Small needs to know who plans to go to the National Convention. H. Steffens, T. Garza and J. Ladd said they are not going. F. Small reported on airline flights and the cost. If someone is traveling with you and you want the Branch to book both flights, we must have the money for the other person’s ticket before it is booked. (6) Editor – Nothing to report. (7) Budget Committee – The Budget Committee has a Proposed Budget for 2008. M. Terral read the Proposed Budget and asked for discussion or comments. Hearing none, T. Chrestman moved to accept the 2008 Budget as read. Motion seconded by J. Ladd. Motion carried. The Budget will be printed in the next Newsletter.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: (1) Plainview Branch Funds – Vivian Finch is to pay back the funds in full by the end of the month. The funds we have collected have not been paid out so we can keep the minimum balance in the account. When we have been paid in full, we will pay out the funds to the eligible members of the former Plainview Branch and close the account. (2) Microwave & Vent Hood – A. Sears asked about the microwave oven and vent hood we had voted to purchase. We have not had time to purchase them, yet, but we will. (3) Ceiling Tile – We also need to purchase the rest of the ceiling tile and get it put up.

NEW BUSINESS: (1) Changes to Newsletter – The steward at Sunset Station needs to be changed to Mitch Terral. The new steward at Levelland is Alvin Williams. Jeremy Ladd is the new Trustee. We need to add Abernathy to the Merged Branches. Some people are not getting their Newsletter. If you are not getting your newsletter, please give your name and address to F. Small after the meeting. There will be a list at the head table. (2) Pictures – D. Eddleman brought some old pictures he thought the Branch would like to have. He also gave us a film of a breakfast many years ago. We will look into getting it converted to Video or DVD. (3) Map – The Executive Board recommended we purchase a large map which could be used during route counts. The City of Lubbock has one 5½ X 6 feet for $41.25. We would have it laminated. W. Jumper motioned to purchase a map. Motion seconded by E. Leaney. Motion carried. (4) W2 Forms – K. Goad has the W2’s ready. See her, if you have not received yours. (5) Shredding Old Records – According to the Record Retention List, we have a lot of files that need to be destroyed. They all need to be shredded. There is a company in Lubbock that will bring out a 64 gallon container. When it is full, they will come get it and shred the contents for $50.00. We will probably have enough to fill the container at least twice to finish the job. It was the recommendation of the Executive Board to have one container brought out now. J. Ladd motioned to have one container brought out now and to order additional containers as needed to complete the job. Motion seconded by A. Sears. Motion carried. (6) Labor/Management Meeting – Mitch Terral met with Randy Turner, who will be acting Postmaster for at least three months. The following were topics at the L/M Meeting: (1) Unauthorized overtime. (2) 3996’s should be turned in 15 minutes after last drag. (3) 1571’s for curtailment of mail. Make sure it is on all mail left in the office. Management must tell you what to curtail. (4) Sick leave. (5) Mail verification.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: (1) COLCPE – Everyone needs to be contributing to COLCPE. We discussed the third allotment slot on your check which is now available. (2) Work Night – There will be a work night after work next Thursday, January 24, 2008. J. Ladd is in charge. We need to put up some lights and finish the paneling on the door. (3) Tables – We need to get caught up on buying tables. N. Cruz motioned to buy 19 tables. Motion seconded by A. Sears. Motion carried. (4) Tables for Sale – Next month we will have used tables for sale. Tables are $5.00 and chairs are $3.00 and will be available at the next meeting. It will be in the next Newsletter. (5) Bulk Mail Account – K. Goad motioned to put $200.00 in the Bulk Mail Account. Motion seconded by N. Cruz. Motion carried. (6) Dues – N. Cruz motioned to stop depositing the extra $1.00 per active member per pay period in the Building Maintenance Fund. It will stay in the General Account. Motion seconded by A. Rodriguez. Motion Carried. (7) Financial Secretary’s Report - F. Small read the bills for the months of November and December. J. Ladd moved to pay