volume 83 issue number 1 february/march 2016mar 2016 sm... · 2016-01-19 · district 13 march 29,...

The Ohio Rural Letter Carriers’ Association Official Publication

Volume 83 Issue Number 1 February/March 2016

Mail Count Training Dates

Mail count training dates and locations are subject to change classes may be added or cancelled due to inclement weather. If weather is bad

please call the library to see if they are still open. Bring your mail count guide printed in the January/February edition of the National Rural

Letter Carrier magazine.

Wednesday, February 3, 2016 6:45pm – 8:45pm

Middletown Library, 8125 S. Broad St, Middletown OH

Thursday, February 4, 2016 6:00pm – 8:00

Georgetown Library, 200 W. Grant Ave, Georgetown OH McConnelsville Library, 358 E. Main St, McConnelsville OH

Sunday, February 7, 2016 1:00pm – 3:00pm

Rising Sun Senior Center (IN), 510 S. Mulberry St, Rising Sun IN

Tuesday, February 9, 2016 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Jackson Library, 21 Broadway St, Jackson OH

Wednesday, February 10, 2016 5:45pm – 7:45pm Urbana Library, 1060 Scioto St, Urbana OH

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Bucyrus Public Library, 200 E. Mansfield St. Bucyrus, OH

Thursday, February 11, 20166:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Medina Public Library, 210 S. Broadway St. Medina, OH from

Friday, February 12, 2016 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Adele’s Restaurant, 509 Snyder Rd.. Salem, OH

Tuesday, February 16, 20166:00 - 8:00pm Putman County Library, 136 Putman Pkwy, Ottawa, OH

5:30pm – 7:30pm Newark Library, 101 W. Main St, Newark OH

Changes and additions will be posted on ohrlca.org

Tentative Mailcount March 12th - March 25, 2016

Inside this Issue

Mailcount Trainings page 1

Contact Information page 2

President’s Report page 3

Vice President’s Report page 3

Worship Corner page 4

Memoriam page 4

Spring District Meetings page 5

Committeeman’s Report page 6-7

PAC Report page 7

Sec/Treas Report page 8

Minutes pages 8-9

Steward Reports pages 10-11

New Members page 11

Recent Retirees page 11

Member of the Year page 12

Resolution Form page 13

Constitution Form page 14

2015 Constitution page 15-26

Auxiliary page 27

Upcoming Events page 28

The Ohio Rural Letter Carrier February/March

Established in 1929 by H. I. Carpenter. Published in Salem, Ohio, six times a year. Entered as Non-Profit mail at the Post Office in Youngstown, Ohio. Non-Profit Postage is paid in Youngstown, Ohio. Subscription Price—$10.00 per year. Contributions are opinions expressed by the writers and do not reflect the opinions of the State Officers of the Ohio Rural Letter Carriers‘ Association or the Editor.

ASSOCIATION OFFICERS President Floyd Edler

1060 Schrake Rd., Chillicothe, OH 45601Ph 740-775-5679 Cell 740-703-7002 [email protected]

Vice President Barb Pitts Secretary/Treasurer Penny Koren 12914 Washingtonville Rd., Salem, OH 44460-9247 104 Clay Road SW, Dellroy, OH 44620-9757 Ph 330-533-6274 [email protected] Ph 330-735-2727 Fax 330-735-2535 [email protected]

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Joyce Bower Diane Cox 7456 County Road 107, Gibsonburg, OH 43431-9531 4780 Stony Creek, Urbana OH 43078 Ph 419-849-2613 [email protected] Ph 937-869-4724 [email protected] *Provident Guild Mark Funderburgh Tim Barker 7450 North River Road, Springfield, OH 45502-9448 4395 Cook Rd., New London, OH 44851-9357 Ph 937-605-4067 [email protected] Ph 419-901-0900 [email protected] *PAC Co-Chairman *National General Insurance Rep *PAC Co-Chairman

Chaplin Rita Beedy5318 Springfield Urbana Pk., Urbana, OH 43078-9420

Ph 937-484-3671 [email protected]

ADRs, AREA STEWARDS AND LOCAL STEWARDS REPORT DIRECTLY TO THE DRArea Steward assignments are subject to change. Please check the most current published list for the Area Steward assigned to your office. Area Stewards are certified to offer assistance ONLY in the offices in which they are certified by the NRLCA. Please do not contact an Area Steward if your office is not listed as one of their assignments. If there is no Local or Area Steward assigned to your office, please contact your District Representative or an Assistant District Representatives.

Northern Ohio DistrictDELBERT HUTCHISSON, Northern Ohio District DRP.O. Box 326, Fostoria, OH 44830-2767Ph 419-435-3117 Fax 419-436-0376E-mail ; [email protected]

SUSAN THAYER (419-906-2058 ) Northern Ohio District ADRPO Box 309, Liberty Center, OH 43532E-mail: [email protected]

CHRIS McCOY, Northern Ohio District ADRP.O. Box 232, Newton Falls, Ohio 44444Ph 330-469-7605Email: [email protected]

Northern Ohio District Area Stewards

Tana Humphrey (440-224-1276) Email: [email protected] Creek Road, Kingsville, Ohio 44048Andover, Austinburg, Bristolville, Brookfield, Burghill, Conneaut,Cortland, Dorset, Farmdale, Fowler, Hubbard, Kingsville, Kinsman,Pierpont, Rock Creek, Rome, Vienna, Williamsfield, Windsor, WilloughbyLori Todd (234-567-4222) Email:[email protected] West State Street Salem, OH 44460. Offices: Alliance, Atwater, Berlin Center, Columbiana, Deerfield, East Rochester, Hanoverton, Kensington, Leetonia, Lisbon, North Benton, North Lima,WellsvilleJody Schuler (740-610-8221) Email: [email protected] Euga Rd. New Comerstown, OH 43832.Offices: Cadiz, Dellroy, Dennison,Freeport,Gnadenhutten, Leesville, Martins Ferry, Millersburg, Mineral City, Sherrodsville, St. Blairsville, Steubenville,Strasburg, Sugarcreek, Toronto,Tuscarawas, Uhrichville, Walnutcreek, Jason M. Zedaker (419-367-2834) Email: [email protected]. Box 324, Stoney Ridge, Ohio 43463Offices:Bellevue, Bowling Green, Clyde, Fremont, Huron, North Baltimore, Oak Harbor, Perrysburg, Port Clinton, Rudolph, Sandusky, Sylvania,Walbridge, Waterville, Vickery

Ohio Valley District

CATHY FUNDERBURGH, Ohio Valley District DRP.O. Box 96, Clifton, OH 45316Ph 937-265-5477 Fax 937-528-2297 E-mail: [email protected]

MIKE AITCHISON, Ohio Valley District ADRP.O. Box 340, Plain City, OH 43064-8873Ph 614-873-4114 Fax 614-873-6352 E-mail: [email protected]

RANDY ANDERSON JR. Ohio Valley District ADRP.O. Box 795, Moundsville, WV 26041 Ph 304-810-4373E-mail: [email protected]

RANDY BURGER (317-892-3893) Ohio Valley District ADRP.O. Box 184, Pittsboro, IN 46167-0184

MISTY GAMERDINGER (740-503-0295) Ohio Valley District ADRP.O. Box 6036, Chillicothe, Ohio 45601E-mail: [email protected]

Ohio Valley District Area StewardsPhilip Burnside (419-310-3817) 8051 Township Road 165, Kenton, Ohio 43326Email: [email protected] Center, Bellefontaine, De Graff, Delaware, Dublin, Jackson Center, Kenton, La Rue, Marion, Marysville, Milford Center, Mount Victory, North Lewisburg, Ostrander, Prospect, Richwood, Ridgeway, Rushsylvania, Russells Point, Upper Sandusky

Dominic Crooks (513-602-4418) P.O. Box 863, Mason, OH 45040Batavia, Bethel, Blanchester, Cleves, Franklin, Harrison, Lebanon, Mason, Middletown, Milford, Monroe, Moscow, New Richmond, Okeana, Oxford, Waynesville, West Chester, Wilmington.


A NEW BEGINNING

A new year has started, to my way of thinking, it is a chance to start fresh. Whether it is at work or in our personal life we can make some changes and try to stick to

them for the year. Boy, a year is 365 days, and that seems insurmountable, so lets start with a day-by-day change. Lets go to work with a smile on our face, a good morning to all we

encounter and gladness in our hearts. If we start our day right the whole day usually goes right. Are we willing to try? This year 2016 will bring the Presidential election and we all know what that means. We as rural carriers will be inundated with political mail and election forms, we have all been through it before and will get through it this time. Just keep in mind; at the end of it all, we all will have a new President.

I have been looking at all the new stamps the Post Office will bring out this year. The first of which will be the Quilled Paper Heart to be dedicated Jan.12 in Dallas. It is very pretty, but I had to look up what a quilled heart was. It is strips of paper over laid on a white sheet of paper to create a design and then pasted. Fascinating! For those of you who are interested in stamp collecting, this is the year for some good ones.

REMINDER. District meetings are fast approaching, the first to begin in February. These are the spring meetings, so plan on attending to get your creden-tials for the state convention so that you can vote. Also, at this meeting you as a body will have to decide on an amount to put aside for PAC at the convention auction. This year they are requesting that each district pick one unique thing specific to their area to send for the auction. This meeting is where you can also sign up to volunteer for the state conven-tion committees. WE NEED YOU!

BE safe out there,

Barbara Pitts, Vice-President

Barb PittsVice President

CONGRESS APPROVES SPENDING BILL

Congress approved an appropriations bill on Dec. 18 to fund the government through 2016, but failed to include a measure that would have restored postal service

standards to their pre-January 2015 levels. The primary purpose of an appropriations bill is to fund the government, but budget bills are often amended to include policy provisions,

known as “riders.” Several riders were added to the spending bill, however none of them addressed the problem of America’s growing outbreak of delayed mail. Even the Postal Service’s own performance data shows the same sad truth. Degrading service Standards has virtually eliminated over-night mail delivery and has resulted in a dramatic increase in delays to America’s mail. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) and the USPS Office of inspector General have all raised serious concerns about the negative impact on postal customers and on postal revenue. Congress’s failure to include language in the appropriations bill to ensure prompt reliable mail service threatens the future of America’s public Postal Service and is a dereliction of its duty to the American people. Over the course of the year, many in Congress have taken a stand against delayed mail. By a vote of 85-11 in April, the Senate approved a non-binding resolution by Sen. Bernie Sanders that called for a halt to the closure of mail processing plants, restoration of overnight mail standards, and protection of rural services. A majority of House members – 226 representatives co-sponsored House Resolution 54, which calls on the Postal Service to restore overnight mail standards. The non-binding resolution,which was introduced by Rep. David McKinley and Rep. Paul Tonko, enjoys bipartisan support. The House Appropriations Committee approved a bipartisan amend-ment to the bill that would have restored the mail service standards that were in effect before January 2015 cuts. When drafting the bill however, congressional leaders failed to include it. Why? A bright spot in the mark-up was an amendment offered by Rep. Chaka Fattah requiring the United States Postal Service to maintain and comply with July 2012 service standards for First Class Mail and periodicals. It passed with bipartisan support. The amendment requires the Postal Service to restore the service standards that were in place before it degraded mail delivery standards by virtually eliminating overnight delivery of First-Class mail on Jan. 5 of this year. Slowing down the mail in a fast paced world is a disastrous plan for the USPS. We must continue to keep the “service” in the Postal Service alive and well. The growing complaints from individuals and businesses must continue to be heard. We as an Association must work with our elected representatives to provide a prompt and reliable mail service for all Americans.

United We Bargain Divided We Beg!Floyd Edler, President

PresidentFloyd Edler


Worship Corner As I sit to put words on paper I am SO glad it is the new year!

Christmas gets harder every year, ormaybe I am just getting old.......So, February and March paper... Hmmm, let’s see... Love, Spring, Easter, Ahhhhh....

That lovely time of year between, “I am Freezing!”, and “I’m going to have a Heat Stroke!”...Time for the flowers to start blooming, bugs to start bugging.... The seed catalogs are starting to come to the house, and makes me hungry for gardening, ummm, fresh tomatoes... No! Wait! That means harvest and Fall... NO!!

Whew! If I let my mind wander it will leave me in the dust and be in 2017!!

Rita Beedy

Ok, seriously, I am very thankful we made it through the Holidays, and am praying for us in March, with the mail count. May we all be Ks... Get to your training meetings, learn all you can, be the best we can be. God help us! Be safe out there.

Would love to pray for you, email me!

Happy Easter,Happy Spring,

Happy God Blessed Everything!!

love and prayers,Rita

Donald E.Moore, age 83, of Wooster, passed away Christmas Day, December 25, 2015 at Wayne County Care Center.Don was born April 5, 1932 in Wooster to Clarence and Marjorie (Phil-lips) Moore and married JoAnn M. Nelson on Nov. 26,1967, and she survives.He had been a member of the Future Farmers of America, the Wooster Grange, the State and National Auxiliary of the Mail Carriers. He was a past President, V. Pres. and Board Member of the Auxiliary also. Don and JoAnn enyoyed their retirement years traveling all around the country in their RV.Online condolences may be shared with the family at schlabachfh.com.

Marian J. Hirt,88, of Danbury Township, died Thursday, December 10, 2015 at Stein Hospice Care Center, Sandusky. She was born Nov. 26, 1927 the daughter of Edwin and Mary (Martin) Bergman. She married William Hirt on Oct. 18, 1947 who survives. William is a retired rural mail carrier.Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.neideckerleveckcrosser.com

Alma Marguerite “Marge” Miller, 98, of Rockford, passed away Monday, December 7, 2015.On November 25, 1937, she married Lester Frederick Miller, who died March 5, 2011. Lester was a retired past State and National Officer for the Rural Letter Carriers Association.Preferred memorials: St. Paul’s United Church of Christ.Online condolences may be expressed at http://ketchamripley.com.

Please note:If you have been

relocated to another post office

your assigned District may have

changed.

Please be sure and read your

District Meeting Postcard for your assigned District.


2016 Spring District Meetings

District 1 Saturday, March 5, 2016. Dinner at 5:30 PM – Meeting at 6:30 PM. Best Friends Restaurant, Interstate 90 and State Route 534, Geneva OH. Questions contact Dawn Greene 440-759-2777, Matt Burke 216-382-3031 or Roger Herbster 440-437-8259.

District 2 Wednesday, April 13, 2016. Dellroy Community Hall, East Main St, Dellroy OH. Details will be forthcoming on the notification postcard. Questions contact Barbara Pitts 330-533-6274.

District 3 Thursday, April 7, 2016. 6:30 p.m. Freeport Fire House Social Hall, 119 E Main St, Freeport OH 43973. Buffet meal with 2 meats and all the fixings. Price $10.00 per plate. RSVP by April 6th and and receive $5.00 off the price of your meal to Jody Schuler, 7951 Euga St, Newcomerstown OH 43832 (740-610-8221) [email protected] or Patsy Anderson, 74765 Dry Ridge Rd, Freeport Oh 43973 (740-630-7306) [email protected].

District 4 Saturday, April 2, 2016. The meal is at 6:00PM Meeting to follow at Lori’s Restaurant, 17020 McConnelsville Rd., Cald-well, OH 43724. We will order from the menu but in order to plan how many to expect please RSVP by March 28, 2016 to Eileen Piatt 740-934-2849.

District 5 Saturday, February 20, 2016. Dinner at 5:00PM, Meeting will be at 6:00PM. Wild Horse Café, 251 W Main St, Pomeroy OH 45769. Contact Ron Ellis Jr 304-64-1938 or [email protected]

District 6 Saturday April 2, 2016. Dinner at 5:30 PM the Meeting will be at 6:30 PM. Hebron United Methodist Church, 925 W Main St, Hebron OH 43025. Cost of the meal is $5.00 per person. First time attendees will eat free. RSVP by March 26, 2016 to Sandy Laramee 614-580-6394 or [email protected].

District 7 Tuesday, March 15, 2016 in Morrow County. Details will be forthcoming on the notification postcard. Members to the Spring Meeting will pay $5 for their meal. Contact Autumn Cramer, 419-562-1184 or [email protected].

District 8 Thursday, March 10, 2016, 6:00 – 9:00 PM, Details will be forthcoming on the notification postcard. Contact - Chrissy Putz 330-606-7448.

District 9 Wednesday, March 9, 2016, 6-9 PM. Frickers1720 E Wooster St, Bowling Green Ohio 43402. RSVP to Tim Barker 419-901-0900 or [email protected]

District 10 Wednesday, March 30, 2016. Plaza Inn, 491 S Main St, Mt Victory OH. Buffet Dinner $12.50 per person. - 6:00PM Meeting at 7:00PM Order from the menu. Any District 10 member who brings a new attendee to the meeting will receive $5.00. RSVP by March 25, 2016 to Diane Cox 4780 Stony Creek Rd, Urbana OH 43078-9454 or call 937-869-4724 or [email protected]. District 11 Tuesday, March 29, 2016. Dinner @6pm. Meeting @7pm. Goodwin’s Family Restaurant,214 Lancaster Pike (Rt. 22),Circleville, OH 43113. RSVP Emilee Arthur 937-206-8642. or [email protected].

District 12 Tuesday, March 8, 2016. 6:00 – 9:00 PM, Golden Coral, 3350 Village Drive, Franklin OH (513-705-6564). Dinner at 6:00 and the Meeting at 7:00PM Contact person, Carla Dedden 513-683-4664 or [email protected]

District 13 March 29, 2016 at the Ministry Center at First Church of New Knoxville, 105 N. St. Marys St, New Knoxville,OH 45871. There will be a catered meal at 6:30 pm and the meeting at 7:15 pm. RSVP to Janna Hirschfeld @ 419-629-3830 by March 22, 2016.

District 14 Thursday, March 3, 2016, Meal at 5:30 Meeting to begin at 6:30 PM. Kissners, 524 Clinton Rd, Defiance OH. The meal is banquet style a cost of $5 per person. First time attendees eat free. RSVP by February 25, 2016 to Susan Thayer 419-906-2058 or Debra Towers 419-237-3071.

2016 OHRLCA Spring District Meeting Assignment List District Date City Officer Steward Auxiliary 1 March 5 Geneva Barbara Pitts Tana Humphrey Jodie Burke 2 April 13 Dellroy Barbara Pitts Chris McCoy Cindy Gamble 3 April 7 Freeport Floyd Edler Delbert Hutchisson Paul Ortz 4 April 2 Caldwell Penny Koren Cathy Funderburgh Paul Ortz 5 February 20 Pomeroy Mark Funderburgh Misty Gamderdinger Diana Hausfeld 6 April 2 Hebron Joyce Bower Misty Gamerdingeer Sandy Schwartz 7 March 15 To Be Announced Diane Cox Mike Aitchison Ed Cox 8 March 10 To Be Announced Penny Koren Delbert Hutchisson Cindy Gamble 9 March 9 Bowling Green Timothy Barker Jason Zedaker Jodie Burke 10 March 30 Springfield Diane Cox Cathy Funderburgh Ed Cox 11 March 29 Circleville Mark Funderburgh Cathy Funderburgh Diana Hausfeld 12 March 8 Franklin Floyd Edler Mike Aitchison Ed Cox 13 March 29 New Knoxville Timothy Barker Susan Thayer Ed Cox 14 March 3 Defiance Joyce Bower Lori Todd Sandy Schwartz


Post Office Art

Have you ever seen something a thousand times before you really see the importance of it? It’s like when you buy a new car and then you notice everyone is driving a ford explorer. Well, I just had that experience recently. I have been in the New London Post Office many times over my years, my father worked many years in that post office. I’ve been in the back working area and most important, on the other

side of the counter buying stamps. I would always look up at the wall and see a crazy painting on the wall, saw it many times but never really saw it until a recent visit from a Michigan teacher who came to see that crazy painting on the post office wall.

During the depression New London was chosen to receive a new post office building which meant much needed work for the area construction workers, electricians, plumbers, and bricklayers just to name a few, but one percent of the budgeted money would be set aside for public art which also helped out of work artists. The New London mural entitled, “The New London Facets”, was painted by Lloyd R. Ney from New Hope, PA. The mural is considered to be an abstract style full of bright colors, shapes, figures, and people. In that era this was a new and bold style of painting. Ney’s sketch was a shock to the fine arts administrators and was rejected at first go, but Ney was determined so he went to the people of the New London community and local businesses who like the mural because of the many details hidden in the painting which related to the history of New London from the beginning in New London, Connecticut (the British burned much of the city) to the settlement of New London, Ohio. Other images include: a covered wagon representing the settler’s migration to the west, Civil War veterans, the town’s first train, farmers, etc. The people of New London made their voices heard by contacting the administrators and asking that the painting be allowed, and Ney was eventually allowed to complete the painting.

“The New London Facets” is considered one of the first abstract murals created through a “New Deal Program”. The mural is 8 ft. by 5 ft. and still remains in the lobby of the post office for everyone to see. There were about 1200 murals painted throughout the country in post offices from 1934 to 1943 through the “New Deal Program”. I hope this sparks an interest with some of you as I intend to look for some of those murals in my travels. So take a one-tank trip to see the mural or maybe leave early for the 2017 state convention in Sandusky, Ohio (which is only about 40 minutes from New London) to stop and see what some have called a “National Treasure” right in the New London Post Office.

Union Proud, Timothy Barker

Tim BarkerExecutive

CommitteemanPAC Co-Chairman

Legislative Co-Chairman

Brainstorming

How many of you remember QWL-EI? Quality Work Life Employee Involvement was created so that management and craft employees could put their collective heads together to accomplish productive strides in the Postal Service. Each team was made up of man-agement and rural carriers that would meet

regularly to find ways to serve our customers and enhance revenue. Brainstorming was a key aspect. Safety was also a big part of the process. I believe a safety video on Left Turns produced by the Mad River Eagle

Express Team (members included yours truly) is still being used today in at least one Rural Carrier Academy. Back in the day, QWL-EI was a good way for rural carriers to have input in shaping our careers and making a difference in the USPS. Today we have a couple of options available in the same arena. The Rural Reach Program was designed as a revenue enhancement op-portunity for us as carriers to help the financial bottom line of the Postal Service. There’s a side benefit, as well. Rural carriers can affect their own financial bottom line when they “grow the business” and increase the evaluation of their routes. EBAY , on-line websites, and traditional businesses have made great contributions through carrier pickups.QWL-EI was also focused on improving the workplace environment.

A new program rolled out on January 5th offers postal employees three ways to share their ideas for improving

postal workplaces.

Employee engagement gives several ways to participate. Call 844-303-6424 and record a message giving your ideas; send an email with your comments to [email protected]; or go to LITE-

BLUE to the Employee Engagement suggestion box and submit your feedback.

The employee engagement team will consider the suggestions and

look for ways to enact them when appropriate. On the surface, this seems like a welcome change from the employee survey.

So, what do you say? Now’s your chance to say it and have it heard.

See you soon at the spring district meetings!

Committeeman Diane Cox

Diane CoxExecutive

Committeeman


OHRLCA /PAC State Convention RaffleMonday, June 13th during the OHRLCA Convention Banquet

PRIZES Valued at $25 to $5,000. $25 PER TICKET or 5 for $100

How Many Tickets ________

Name ______________________________________Phone______________________

Address _______________________________________________________________

Make check payable to NRLCA PAC;Mail to: Mark Funderburgh, 7450 N River Rd, Springfield OH 44502-9448

PAC Convention Raffle

Welcome to the New Year and all of the prospects of it. As of Dec. 31 we are about where we were last year on the total amount of money we have collected for PAC.

This year our top-prize for the reverse raffle is going to

be a UTV.

The raffle will have many other superb prizes as well; so check your magazine at a later date for the complete list, as we are still acquiring more every day.

So be sure and get your tickets early. We will be attempting to sell 1000 tickets for this drawing on June 14th at the state convention in Worthington, Ohio.

PAC will be at every mail-count training that will be given and look forward to seeing you at one of those or at your district meeting starting in February through April.

Come out and help support your PAC. Committeeman Mark Funderburgh

Mark FunderburghExecutive

CommitteemanPAC Co-Chairman

Legislative Co-Chairman

Winter is here?

This has been the nicest winter I can remember. But we need to be prepared if it decides to change. Those of us with POV’s need to

remember to put some weight at the rear right wheel and have some kitty litter and a shovel with us. The kitty litter really does help if we get stuck. If we shovel around the wheels and put kitty litter at the wheel, it will help get us out.

The best is to avoid getting stuck. Be very careful when entering an approach.

Our job is to deliver the mail, but do it safely. Do not take chances. We also need to make sure that we drive at a safe speed and watch for the other drivers who may not.

Be safe and I hope that all will attend their spring district meetings. We need to stay informed.

CommitteemanJoyce Bower

Joyce BowerExecutive

Committeeman


Welcome to 2016

Ohio MembershipThe January 2016 the Membership Analysis prepared by the National Office has Ohio’s total membership as 4351. Ohio has experienced an increase of 52 members within the past year. However Ohio still has 1118 non-members. If you know of a non-member recruit them to become a member of the NRLCA. The authorization for dues withholding form

1187 is available on ohrlca.org website in forms folder.

OWCP OR LWOP negative affects! If you are not receiving a check from the USPS your life insurance may lapse because of nonpayment, contact Human Resources on this issue. Also, if you are on Worker’s Compensation dues payments are not deducted from your check or if you are on LWOP and have not paid dues, you are not a member in good standing. A “member in good standing” is a member who has made payment of dues and has not voluntarily withdrawn or been expelled or suspended by the Association. Only members in good standing may be nominated and elected as a delegate to the State or National convention. If you are on OWCP or LWOP make sure that your union membership remains current contact OHRLCASecretary-Treasure Penny Koren.

STATE CONVENTION The State Convention will be held June 12 - 15, at the Doubletree Worthington, 175 Hutchison Ave, Columbus OH. Plan to attend the State Convention, come and exercise your Union Rights. Listen to the concerns of fellow members, stand and speak, let your voice be heard on the issues. Attend the State Convention as a delegate and vote on the issues. How do you become a delegate to the State Convention? Be nominated during your District Meeting.

DISTRICT MEETINGS During your District meeting District Officers are nominated and elected and delegates representing your district are nominated and elected to the Sate Convention. “According to our State Constitution both of these elections are to be by secret ballot.” The elected of delegates from your district will represent your interests on actions taken at the State Convention. If you wish to be a delegate to the State Convention representing your District and cannot attend the meeting, send a written request to your District Secretary and ask for your name to be nominated when elections for District delegates are held. Names cannot be added to the delegate list after the district meeting has ended. I hope that every member will plan to attend his or her District meeting. The date and location of the District Meetings are listed in this issue. You are a member of the district that includes the county in which your employing office is located.

NATIONAL CONVENTION August 16 – 19, 2015, Nashville TN NATIONAL DELEGATE - NOMINATING BALLOT The National Magazine’s February through May issues will have the nominating ballot for delegates to the National Convention included. If you desire to have your name placed on the ballot for consideration as a delegate to the National Convention, or you want to nominate another Ohio member, fill out the nominating ballot and mail it to the designated post office box.

Penny KorenSecretary/Treasurer

The nominating ballot must be received via US Mail no later than May 3, 2016, at OHRLCA, PO Box 107, Dellroy OH 44620-0107. Upon receipt of the nominating ballot, a confirmation notice will be sent to the nominee. IF THE NOMINEE DOES NOT RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION NOTICE, PLEASE CONTACT - OHRLCA Secretary-Treasurer Penny Koren at 330-735-2727.

Celebrate February 14th, Valentine’s Day, by letting your family and friends know they are appreciated and loved.

Enjoy Spring and the rebirth of many things including the flowers and the greening of the ground and trees.

Hope to see you at your District Meeting.

Your Secretary/Treasurer

OHRLCA Board Meeting Minutes

Saturday, November14, 2015Doubletree Worthington175 Hutchison DrColumbus OH

Present was President Edler, Vice President Pitts, Secretary-Treasurer Koren, Committeemen Bower, Funderburgh, Cox and Barker. Ohio Valley and Northern Ohio District Representatives also joined the meeting.

9:00 amVouchers: The entire Board reviewed and approved all the vouchers submitted for payment.

Fall Booster Meeting / Retirement Seminar:The Booster Meeting’s Agenda and the lunch menu were reviewed. The Board will meet Sunday, November 15th and set-up the conference room at 6am.

Minutes:The minutes of September12, 2015 were read. Vice President Pitts made a motion to accept the minutes, the motion passed.

Please notify Secretary Koren

of your new address.


Treasurer Report:The Association’s Detailed Financial Position was distributed and reviewed.

Budget:Committeeman Bower presented the review of the budget and the board concluded that all activities are in line with the 2015-2016 budget.

Legislative:Committeeman Barker reported on the bills that are active at this time and stressed the importance of contacting your representatives supporting bills that are beneficial to the postal service.

2018 Mid-States:Contracts for four (4) hotels in which to host the 2018 Mid-States Conference was presented and reviewed. Committeeman Barker made a motion to host the 2018 Mid-states Conference at the Renaissance Hotel, 24 Public Square Cleveland, the motion passed.

Spring District Meetings:The Spring District Meeting assignments were assigned to each officer. Secretary/Treasurer Koren will prepare handouts for the meeting and distribute to each officer.

Executive session 11:35am, the meeting resumed at 11:50am.

National General Insurance:Committeeman Barker reported that Ohio is one of the five states that met their insurance quote quota. Since Ohio met their quota the association will receive promotional revenue from the National General Insurance Company.

Provident Guild:Committeeman Cox reported that since the national convention Ohio had 3 new members join the Provident Guild. These new members names will be added to the Booster Meeting drawing for a $10 year membership and there will also be a prize gift bag containing a candle and shower gel and beautiful aids and also a year membership drawing during the booster meeting.

Revised Board Policy:LeaveJanuary 6, 2011Request for Leave for full-time Association’s Employees must be submitted on an OH-3971 (request of absence). Stewards will obtain approval from the State Steward or the State Presi-dent. The Secretary-Treasurer will obtain Approval will must be obtained from the State President. The approved OH-3971 will be presented to the Secretary-Treasurer for recording and filling. Revised November 14, 2015

Steward Report:The Ohio Valley and Northern Ohio District Representatives reported that grievances are down compared to the same time last year and many grievances continue to be repeated because management is giving directives that are not contractual. They

also reported that many grievances are being lost at the National Arbitration level.

Safety:On the way to the New Hire Orientation the Board Officers have been visiting post offices to present safety to Rural Carriers and the feed back from carriers in the offices has been great. As a re-sult of the office safety talks several of the carriers are registered to attend the Booster Meeting and they are interested in becoming involved in the union functions. The Post Office safety talk visitations will not be done in the month of December.

6:30 PMCommitteeman Funderburgh made a motion to adjourn until 9:00 AM Monday November 15, 2015, the motion passed.

Monday November 16, 2015 9:00 AMThe Board reviewed the Booster Meeting and the attendee’s critiques sheets.

Editor’s Report:Editor Pitts presented the cost of the state paper in full color, partial color and in black and white print. Editor Pitts presented the upcoming December/January State Paper for review by the Board. Committeeman Bower made a motion to have theDecember/January issue printed in full color, the motion passed.

Vice President Pitts made a motion to purchase a suitcase to store and transport the chair backs that are used during the national convention, the motion passed.

PAC:Committeeman Funderburgh reported that the Ohio PAC goals have been set for the 2015 – 2016 year. During the Fall Booster Meeting there were four (4) meat raffle winners drawn. The raffle for the State Convention was discussed. Committeeman Barker made a motion for the Association to purchase items for the 2016 State Convention PAC raffle in the amount of $2500.00, the motion passed. Committeeman Funderburgh presented an invoice, for payment, from Safety Signs for items to be sold with the proceeds going to PAC. President Edler made a motion to pay the Safety Signs invoice and subtract the amount from the money allocated for State Convention PAC Raffle purchases, the motion passed.

12:12 AM Executive Session, the Meeting Resumed at 12:38 AM

Committeeman Funderburgh made a motion to adjourn, the motion passed.

Adjourned 1:10pm

Next Board Meeting February 1, 2016 11:00AMFebruary 2, 2016 9:00AMRenaissance Hotel24 Public Square Cleveland OH

Minutes submitted by Secretary-Treasurer Penny Koren


MAIL COUNTTHE “CATCH ALL” COLUMN 17

Mail count is tentatively scheduled for 12 working days beginning on March 12th and ending on March 25, 2016. This may change but all routes will be counted unless both parties agree in writing not to count. Remember it is your paycheck. Think of mail count as a marathon and not a sprint. Pay attention every day to your count. Column 17 is the column that is often overlooked. Think of column 17 as the catch all drawer that everyone has in their house. Anything

that you do on a daily/weekly bases or unusual conditions which are not credited somewhere else falls into the “catch all column” know as column 17.

EDIT BOOKS: The language states that this should be a weekly average. The best documentation for this is every time you work in your edit book changing cell size, adding houses, or changing them vacant or active should be documented on your 4240. Getting credit to open the edit book, pick up a pen, put the pen down and close the book is not the correct procedure.

PHONE CALLS: If you are required to answer customer phone calls or go to the window then the time is recorded in column 17. Management requires you to do this the rest of the year but during mail count you are denied the time then request to be paid on an 8127 each and every time. If management or a clerk asks you a question then that is part of your normal duties.

SATURDAY CLOSE OUT DUTIES: If you are required to do special du-ties to close out the office on Saturdays then the actual time is recorded in column 17. Some examples are special no carrier left behind scan, pushing APCs into the vestibule, taking down the flag, setting the alarm, etc. These duties could happen in a RMPO office every day as well. THROW BACK CASE/CFS CASE: This is actual time to walk to the throwback case and deposit mail in the locations as well as to CFS. You may have more than one trip if required.

DISTANCE TO RETRIEVE DPS, ACCOUNTABLE AND PARCEL CARTS: Management is to measure the nearest point of your case to the location and back. To figure the time allowance: total distance subtracted by 50 feet and multiplied by .00429 to give you a daily timed function.

BREAKING DOWN OUTGOING MAIL/PARCELS: If you are required to perform more than 2 separations of outgoing mail then the addi-tional time is credited. You must complete the 2 separations first then everything after that is timed. (Discuss it in the pre-count conference what the 2 separations will be such as letters, flats) If you are required to separate parcels by zip codes actual time

WAITING ON A TRAIN: Step 4 that allows you to be credited with waiting on a train. The best documentation is to take a picture with your cell phone of the train when you arrive at the tracks and then another picture of the last train car. Most cell phones will time stamp the photos.

DPS LETTER MAIL: Record the actual time to check the quality of the DPS letter mail by riffling the mail. We should check 3 to 5 places in each tray and we do not work off of the floor to perform this duty. If you are required to locate and retrieve errors associated with the Mail

Cathy FunderburghOhio Valley District

Representative

History Tracking System - actual time. If you find a sweeping error then it is actual time to place the mail in the correct location in your DPS trays.

ARROW KEYS: Actual time to obtain and return arrow keys if the carrier had no other accountables.

WEEKLY SERVICE/SAFETY TALKS: This is actual time recorded which is usually 5 minutes. The time begins when a talk is announced and you leave your case if required. The time ends when it is announced that the talk is over. If management repeats the talk to the leave replace-ments then the time is recorded again. You do have the right to ask questions.

VACATION HOLDS: Time to take mail to vacation hold and return to the case if there is no hold location at the carrier’s case. Mail should already be separated at the carrier’s case before traveling to the vacation hold designation.

3M CASE: Actual time to walk to the 3M case, deposit the mail and return to the case.

BUSINESS REPLY MAIL: Actual time for returning Business Reply mail to designated location.

COLLECTION BOXES: Time to unlock, verify collection with scanner, magnet, or wand, close and lock blue collection boxes.

KEYS FOR GATED COMMUNITIES: If you have to access key, unlock gate, lock the gate, and return the key for a gated community then it is actual time to complete this function.

UNUSUAL DISMOUNTS: Actual time for unusual authorized dismounts such as using elevators, traversing an inordinate amount of stairs, un-locking or going through difficult doors, or waiting to be let in. (Delivering a parcel or accountable does not fall into this category)

SATCHEL: If you are required to use a satchel then actual time to reload the satchel.

INTERMEDIATE OFFICE: time to unlock and lock doors if required. Non L routes will receive actual time to purchase stamp stock not to exceed 5 minutes. L routes stamp purchases must meet the minimum requirement of 150 times the First Class Mail postage rate in order to be given this time allowance. (150 X .49 = $73.50)

PARCELS: Time to put left notice parcels on the proper shelf if required.

VPOs: The actual time to separate and case mail into the Village Post Office and the time will begin once the carrier unlock and close the centralized box.

FFS: Carrier will receive 15 seconds per tray or partial tray for locating the tray and straightening the DPS Flat mail.

I want to take the time to congratulate Misty Gamerdinger for complet-ing the Assistant District Representative Course as she will be a fine addition to the Ohio Valley Steward System.

Your Union Sister, Cathy Funderburgh


Congratulations Recent Retirees

Steward Recognition Week

Steward recognition week was moved up from December to October this year so I hope you gave your local steward a big Thank You for all their hard work on behalf of rural carriers. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce to you our new area stewards for the Northern Ohio District, Lori Todd and Jody Schuler. Their contact information and office assignments are on page 2 of this issue. If your office is one under their control please direct all steward related questions to them.

Thank you kindly,Delbert K. Hutchisson

DR Northern Ohio

Delbert HutchissonNorthern Ohio

DistrictRepresentative

Angel AllenAleta ArrowwoodRick BalesJames BentleyRobert BoergerJason BowmanRachel BoyceMichael Bridker JrVeronica BroodmanBenjamin CartwrightMichele CearfossAdam ClevengerCambel DikuuaChris DyerAaron EvansPenny ForemanDebbie FrazierDonna Green

Jason HirtJames Hoops JrJack HuschDominique JeffersonJaylen JonesKelly JuraticMichael KiddKrista KilliamKimberly KimberlinValerie KrouskoupfAaron KuhlmanHeather LeachLeigh LeadinghamRicky Liddington JrLucas LightleClara MabryJenni MacdonaldRick Massa

Chad McAfeeGlenn McHenrySarah McIntireAndrew McPhersonAmanda MillerPenny MillerPaul MillerKevin Morgan IITara MorrisCarson MummeyRyan NolteRyan ParteeAmanda PattersonMark PhelanAlyssa PyersJoshua RichardsonFelix Rivera QuinonesSusha Sathiaprakash

Chad ScarberryShannon SheridanCarla SmithPatrice SmithNicole StottsJessica SunderlandAngie SweetKevin ThomasKyle ThurlwellTiffany UhrigAmanda VoiersSherri WaddleKristina WaldronIeshia WoodforkWilliam WoodsJackie WoolfendenDesiree Wright

John Adams GreenwichAlma Colonel AmeliaNancy Devine Grove CityRichard Dissett MillburyThomas Gamble New MiddletownLawrence Kent CanfieldMartha Mallin MorrowTerry Parker GeorgetownAlan Wetzel GreenvilleRobert Wood Wadsworth


“Member of the Year”The Ohio Rural Letter Carriers’ Association will honor one of our rural carrier members again this year.

The OHRLCA most Junior Committeeman will chair the Member of the Year Committee and the remaining members of the committee will be comprised of the most recent member of the year honoree, and 4 district officers from the host convention site.

The committee will review all entries and announce the name of the selected individual at State Convention. This individual will also be recognized at the National Convention.

Please submit this form to the 2016 Committee Chairman Mark Funderburgh (see address below) prior to the 2016 Ohio Rural Letter Carriers’ State Convention at Cincinnati Ohio, June 12 – 14, 2016.

I/WE, _______________________________________(INDIVIDUAL/DISTRICT) Phone number _____________________ would like to place the name of

______________________________________________________________ Phone Number ______________________to be considered as “Member of the Year”.

Please give a brief history of the nominee’s personal and postal life as the basis for this nomination.____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________.

(If more space is needed, please attach additional sheets)

Please send this form by first class mail, by June 6, 2016 to: Mark Funderburgh

7450 North River RdSpringfield OH 45502-9448


OHRLCA RESOLUTIONCHECK APPROPRIATE CIRCLE 0 BINDING 0 NON-BINDINGThe following Resolution was adopted at the 2016 Annual Convention of the Ohio Rural Letter Carriers’ Association. It is hereby submitted to the Resolutions Committee of the 2016 State Convention in Columbus, Ohio for consideration and appropriate action.

ISSUESCheck one: 0 AUTOMATION 0 MAILCOUNT 0 VEHICLE 0 BENEFITS 0 RELIEF DAY 0 WORK RULES 0 EMA 0 RETIREMENT 0 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES 0 SALARY 0 OTHER 0 LEAVE REPLACEMENTS 0 TIME STANDARDS 0 CONSTITUTION

The following procedures are suggested for effectively presenting state – adopted Resolutions: 1) Place only one Resolution per sheet. 2) Formatting instructions: Font-Times New Roman; Font Size 11; New Language BOLD; Omitted Language Strikethrough 3) Indicate if the Resolution is intended to be binding or non-binding (above). 4) Indicate the issue this resolution concerns (above). 5) Identify any Handbooks, Manuals, or Written Documents to be amended: By: (a) Name of Document ____________________________________________________________________ (b) Article____________________________ Section_________________Paragraph_____________________

6) Explanatory paragraphs should be headed as follows: (If spaces below are inadequate, use additional sheets with the ap propriate heading).

WHEREAS:

BE IT RESOLVED:

INTENT OF / REASON FOR CHANGE:

Signature ______________________________ District Secretary or Individual

Date ___________________________________


2016 OHRLCA CONSTITUTION CHANGEThe following Constitution change was adopted as a resolution at the 2016 Annual Convention of the Ohio Rural Letter Carriers’ Association. It is hereby submitted to the Constitution Committee of the 2016 OHRLCA State Convention in Columbus OH for consideration and appropriate action.

The following procedures are suggested for effectively presenting state-adopted Constitution Changes:1) Place only one Constitution per sheet.2) Present in Word document format.3) Formatting instructions: (a) Font - Times New Roman; Font Size - 11 (b) New Language BOLD; Omitted Language Strike Through (c) Article _________________Section _____________________Paragraph___________________

Explanatory paragraphs should be headed as follows: (If spaces below are inadequate, use additional sheets with the appropriate heading)

PRESENT LANGUAGE:

PROPOSED LANGUAGE:

INTENT OF / REASON FOR CHANGE:

Signature ________________________________ District Secretary or Individual

Date______________________________________


TABLE OF CONTENTSPREAMBLEARTICLE 1 NAMEARTICLE II PURPOSEARTICLE III MEMBERS SECTION 1. MEMBER IN GOOD STANDING SECTION 2. CLASSIFICATIONS SECTION 3. RESTRICTIONS SECTION 4. AFFILIATION SECTION 5. DUES SECTION 6. FAMILY PLAN SECTION 7. MEMBERSHIP YEARARTICLE IV SUBORDINATE UNITS SECTION 1. SUBORDINATE UNITS SECTION 2. ELECTIONS SECTION 3. OFFICERS SECTION 4. TRUSTEESHIPARTICLE V OFFICERS & APPOINTEES SECTION 1. OFFICERS SECTION 2. DUTIES SECTION 3. ELECTION SECTION 4. SALARIES SECTION 5. EXPENSES SECTION 6. APPOINTEES SECTION 7 REMOVAL SECTION 8 VACANCY IN OFFICEARTICLE VI MEETINGS SECTION 1. STATE CONVENTION SECTION 2. SITE SELECTION SECTION 3. DELEGATES SECTION 4. QUORUM SECTION 5. ORDER OF BUSINESS SECTION 6. SPECIAL AND BOOSTER MEETINGSARTICLE VII NATIONAL CONVENTION DELEGATES SECTION 1. DELEGATES SECTION 2. COMPENSATION OF STATE-PAID NATIONAL DELEGATES

ARTICLE VIII STATE BOARD SECTION 1. MEMBERS SECTION 2. DUTIES SECTION 3. MEETINGSARTICLE IX COMMITTEES SECTION 1. CONVENTION COMMITTEES SECTION 2. SPECIAL COMMITTEESARTICLE X STEWARD SYSTEM ARTICLE XI APPEALS SECTION 1. STATE SECTION 2. NATIONAL SECTION 3 ADMINISTRATIONARTICLE XII PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY

ARTICLE XIII AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION PREAMBLE

Whereas, every State Association of the Rural Letter Carriers when regularly organized by a convention of representatives from not less than 3 district Associations within the territorial limits of a State, regularly assembled, possess the inherent power to form a constitution not to conflict with the National RLCA as the fundamental law of its action, and to enact such rules and prescribed regulations for establishing district associations as will insure the prosperity thereof and promote the general good of the Association.

Therefore in accordance with these principles the OHRLC Association does hereby ordain, establish and promulgate the following constitution and rules of order for the government of the Association within its jurisdiction.

The government of the OHRLC Association shall consist of two independent co-ordinate departments; viz.: a legislative department and an executive department.

The legislative department of this state government shall be composed of its officers and such delegates from each District or Subordinate unit as are hereinafter provided for.

The Executive Department of this State Association shall be composed of its elective officers.

ARTICLE IName

The name of this Association shall be the “Ohio Rural Letter Carriers’ Association.” The Ohio Rural Letter Carriers’ Association (OHRLCA), by its Secretary-Treasurer, maintains custody and control of the State Association name as well as any State Association logo or symbol. Unauthorized use of the State Association name, logo, or symbol shall be addressed by the filing of an internal union charge or legal action or both.

It shall have a seal of approved design and description by which all instruments shall be authenticated, issued by or under the authority of the State Association which seal shall be in the custody of the State Secretary-Treasurer.

ARTICLE IIPurpose

A. The purpose of this Association shall be fraternal and for the study and adoption of the best methods of performing the duties of the Rural Delivery Service; to seek to improve the condition of all its members and co-

OHIO RURAL LETTER CARRIERS’ ASSOCIATIONCONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS

Adopted June 9, 2015Cincinnati, OH


operate at all times with the U.S. Postal Service for the advancement of the Rural Delivery Service.

B. This State Association acknowledges its allegiance to the National Association and recognizes the jurisdiction of the latter body with reference to petitioning the Congress or consulting and negotiating with the U.S. Postal Service; its membership dues and representation to the National Convention. In all other matters appertaining to its affairs, this Association is supreme and has the supreme right.

ARTICLE IIIMembers

Section 1. Member in Good Standing. A “member in good standing” is a member who has made timely payment of dues and has not voluntarily withdrawn or been expelled or suspended by the Association.

Section 2. ClassificationsA. Bargaining Unit Member. Membership is open to the following rural carriers:1. Regular Carriers (Designation Code 71), including regular carriers who are in Injured-on Duty/Leave Without Pay (IOD/LWOP) status and assigned to (980-989) rural routes;

2. Part-Time Flexible Rural Carriers (PTFs, Designation Code 76);3. Substitute Rural Carriers (Designation Codes 72 and 73);4. Rural Carrier Associates (RCAs, Designation Codes 78, 74, 79);

5. Rural Carrier Reliefs (RCRs, Designation Code 75);6. Auxiliary Rural Carriers (Designation Code 77);

7. Rural Carriers in the Armed Forces of our country, provided they were members when their duty began.

B. Bargaining Unit Members in good standing are entitled to all voting rights and to hold both elective and appointive office at all levels of the Association.

C. Retired Member. Retired membership is open to Rural Carriers who were members in good standing at retirement on an annuity. Eligibility for Retired membership expires on June 30 of the year following retirement. Failure to pay dues for one full membership year terminates Retired membership. However, a Retired carrier whose membership has lapsed, due to extenuating circumstances, may apply for reinstatement to the National Secretary-Treasurer by providing proof of prior membership and the current year’s dues. The National Secretary-Treasurer shall present the request for membership to the National Board for a decision. Retired Members in good standing are entitled to all voting rights with the exception of Ratification of National Agreements. Retired Members may not be elected to National office.

D. Associate Member. Associate membership is open to

Rural Carriers who were members in good standing and are now either working in other non-managerial Postal Service jobs or have left the service and are not receiving an annuity. Failure to pay dues for one full membership year terminates Associate membership. Associate Members shall not be entitled to vote or to hold elective or appointive office in the Association.

E. Retired Associate Member. Retired Associate membership is open to Associate Members who have retired on an annuity. Eligibility for Retired Associate membership expires on June 30 of the year following retirement. Failure to pay dues for one full membership year terminates Retired Associate membership. Retired Associates may not apply for reinstatement. Retired Associate Members shall not be entitled to vote or to hold elective or appointive office in the Association.

F. Honorary Member. Honorary membership may be bestowed by the Association at the National Convention upon recommendation of the National Board. Honorary Members shall not be entitled to vote or to hold elective or appointive office in the Association.

Section 3. Restrictions. In as much as it is an unfair labor practice under the Labor Management Relations Act (LMRA) for any employer (including persons acting in that capacity) to dominate or interfere with the administration of any labor organization, it follows that employers, while they may be members, may not be candidates for office or serve as officers.Members are prohibited from participation in the Association while serving in managerial or supervisory positions, such as Officer-in-Charge (OIC), Acting Supervisor (204-B) or Postmaster Relief (PMR) or acting in any capacity normally performed by a manager. Members who accept managerial positions shall be deemed to have resigned from all elected and appointed positions within the Association and shall be prohibited from holding any elected or appointed union positions for a period of one year from the last day served in that capacity.

Section 4. Affiliation. Members working in organized states shall affiliate with the state association representing the office from which the route originates. The state association shall determine affiliation with the district or subordinate unit, in which they work.

Section 5. Dues. A. Annual State Per Capita dues shall be defined as follows

per membership classification plus the National per capita dues as defined in the National Constitution.

B. Regular Rural Carriers and Part-Time Flexible Carrier and Associate.

1. The per capita tax shall be $216.00 annually, for the State Association.

2. The State Association per capita tax shall be applied as follows: $211.00 will remain in the State General Fund and $5.00 per regular carrier member to the appropriate District Secretary, at the time of closing the books (June


30th) based on the final report of the current year’s membership. To qualify for this remittance, the District must hold at least one meeting during the year to elect Officers and transact business. The District must submit the required reports to the State Secretary-Treasurer. Districts who do not meet the requirements forfeit the right to any money due them.

C. Leave Replacement Carriers (Substitutes, RCR, RCA and Auxiliary). 1. The per capita tax shall be $79.00 annually for the state association. 2. The state association per capita tax shall be applied as follows: $74.00 will remain in the state general fund and $5.00 per relief carrier member to the appropriate district secretary, at the time of closing the books (June 30th) based on the final report of the current year’s membership. To qualify for this remittance, the District must hold at least one meeting during the year to elect Officers and transact business. The District must submit the required reports to the State Secretary-Treasurer. Districts who do not meet the requirements forfeit the right to any money due them.

D. Retired Members. The per capita tax shall be $25.00 annually for the State Association, plus National per capita tax.E. Associate Members. The per capita tax shall be $240.00 annually for the State Association, plus National per capita tax.F. Retired Associate Members. The per capita tax shall be $216.00 annually or the State Association, plus National per capita tax.

G. All revenues received by the State Association shall be used as directed by the Executive Board with the following exception: No portion of the principal received from the Joe Kindler Estate shall be used by the Executive Board unless so authorized by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the delegates seated at the Annual State Convention.

H. All revenues received by the Association from the Auto-Home Owner Insurance program shall be applied toward promoting the program within the State. Areas of promotion shall include, but not be limited to, the mileage and per diem of the State Officers to attend District or subordinate Meetings within the jurisdiction of the Ohio Rural Letter Carriers’ Association as directed by the President for such meetings, the salary and expenses incurred by the Auto-Home Owner Insurance Representatives including National Delegate expenses as set forth in Article VII, Section 3 for the elected delegates, and for promotional advertisements in the State Publication.

Section 6. Family PlanA. In addition to the above defined amounts, annual State

Auxiliary Per Capita dues shall be designed as follows, plus the National Auxiliary per capita dues as defined in the National Auxiliary Constitution.

B. Regular Rural Carriers; $5.00C. Part-Time Flexible Rural Carriers; $5.00 D. Substitute Rural Carriers; $0.00E. Rural Carrier Associates; $0.00F. Rural Carrier Reliefs; $0.00G. Auxiliary Rural Carriers; $0.00H. Retired Rural Carriers; $5.00These amounts shall be deducted pro-rata from NRLCA State Association dues by the NRLCA and remitted to the National Auxiliary quarterly. Those NRLCA members who have signed an authorization for deduction of dues and do not wish to participate in the Family Plan may request a refund of Auxiliary dues. Such refund request must be made in writing to the NRLCA Secretary-Treasurer no more than twenty (20) days and not less than ten (10) days prior to the beginning of each NRLCA fiscal year.

Section 7. Membership Year. The fiscal year of this Association and all of its subordinate associations shall begin July 1st and end June 30th.

ARTICLE IVSubordinate Units

Section 1. Subordinate Units. A. Fourteen (14) Rural Carrier Districts shall be formed of

various counties; as follows (numbers in parenthesis indicate charter numbers.):

District 1 Ashtabula (24), Geauga (28), Lake (62), Portage (26), and Trumbull (31).

District 2 Carroll (83), Columbiana-Mahoning (97), Jefferson (86), and Stark (22).

District 3 Belmont (78), Coshocton (2), Harrison (36), and Tuscarawas-Holmes (95).

District 4 Guernsey (9), Monroe (65), Morgan (59), Noble (57), and Washington (76).

District 5 Gallia (48), Athens-Meigs-Vinton (93), Jackson (71), and Lawrence (88).

District 6 Fairfield (60), Hocking (87), Licking (14), Muskingum (20), and Perry (11).

District 7 Ashland (12), Crawford (32), Delaware (42), Knox (43), Marion (4), Morrow (49), and Richland (3).

District 8 Cuyahoga (39), Lorain (13), Medina (1), Summit (40) and Wayne (18).

District 9 Hancock (38), Lucas (77), Ottawa (53), Erie Huron Sandusky (94), Seneca (81), Wood and Wyandot (34).

District 10 Champaign-Union (91), Clark-Madison (90), Franklin (8), Hardin (52), and Logan (21).

District 11 Adams-Brown (98), Fayette (58), Highland (69), Pickaway (72), Pike (84), Ross (45), and Scioto (70).

District 12 Butler-Hamilton (99), Clermont-Warren (96), Clinton (66), Greene (56), and Preble (75),

District 13 Allen (15). Auglaize (46), Darke (19), Mercer (54),


Miami-Montgomery (92), and Shelby (47). District 14 Defiance (5), Fulton (67), Henry (73), Paulding

(63), Putman (68), Van Wert (33), and Williams (10).

B. The State Board shall be authorized to grant charters and establish guidelines for the support of all subordinate units.

C. Each subordinate unit shall adopt such by laws as their needs suggest; but all such laws must harmonize with the code of laws of the State Association.

D. Each Rural Carrier District Association shall hold a spring meeting each year, on regular dates that are approved by the Executive Board for the election of District Officers and delegates to the State Convention, for social, educational, and membership purposes. All members shall be notified at least 15 days prior to the meeting, of business to be acted upon. Notification of the meeting to be by mailed notice and the “Ohio Rural Carrier”.

E. Any subordinate unit failing to comply with the provisions herein set forth, shall be barred from any compensation as provided in Article 3 Section 5 except by unanimous consent of the convention.

Section 2 ElectionsA. No member of this Subordinate Unit shall be eligible to

hold office that is not in good standing at the time of the nomination and election.

B. Nominations of candidates for Subordinate Unit Officers shall be held at the spring meeting. Officers shall consist of President, Vice President and Secretary/Treasurer. Any member in good standing may nominate candidates for office.

C. The election of Subordinate Unit Officers shall be by secret ballot among the members in good standing eligible to vote for officers.

D. All delegates to the State Convention shall be elected by secret ballot among the members in good standing eligible to vote.

E. The Subordinate Unit President shall make appointments when necessary to fill vacancies in elective positions until the next spring meeting.

Section 3. Officers.A. All Rural Carrier District officers shall be elected at the

spring meeting, to take office at the start of the fiscal year, July 1st The District Secretary shall make an immediate report of such election to the State Secretary-Treasurer. No member who has transferred to another postal craft shall be elected or reelected to a district office.

B. The President of each Rural Carrier District Association shall have direct charge of all organization, and membership work in the district, under the supervision of the State President and State Secretary-Treasurer. The

District Secretary shall be the assistant organizer. They may be paid from the General Fund such compensation as the Executive Board may direct.

C. Removal. The State Board may suspend an officer of a subordinate unit for misconduct or neglect of duty in office, pending a hearing before a committee of three members within 30 days of suspension. The members shall be selected as follows: one member selected by the State Board, one selected by the suspended officer and a chairman selected by the other two members. No state officer shall serve on the committee. The committee shall report its findings and recommendations within 30 days to the State Board. The officer has no right to appeal.

Section 4. TrusteeshipA. Purpose. The State Board may place any subordinate unit

in trusteeship for any of the following reasons:1. To uphold the principles of this Constitution;

2. To prevent or correct corruption or financial mismanagement;3. To ensure performance of collective bargaining agreements or duties of a bargaining representative;4. To restore democratic procedures;5. To otherwise carry out the objectives of the Association.

B. Authority. The trustee shall assume immediate control of the subordinate unit with full authority over all officers and property. The trustee shall act in such capacity for the duration of the trusteeship.

C. Hearing. A trusteeship hearing shall be held before a committee of three members within 30 days of imposing trusteeship. The members shall be selected as follows: one member selected by the State Board, one selected by the Board in trusteeship and a chairman selected by the other two members. The committee shall have sole discretion regarding the conduct and procedures of the trusteeship hearing. Only Bargaining Unit Members may serve on this committee. No member of this committee shall be chosen from the subordinate Unit in trusteeship, or from the State Board. The committee shall report its findings and recommendations to the President as soon as practical following the hearing. The State Board shall determine whether to continue or to terminate the trusteeship.

D. Termination. The affected subordinate unit may petition the State Board to terminate the trusteeship at six month intervals following the decision of the State Board. The board of the subordinate unit in trusteeship may appeal the decision of the State Board as provided in this Constitution. The State Board may terminate a trusteeship at any time.

ARTICLE VOfficers and Appointees


Section 1. Officers. The officers of this Association shall be elective, consisting of a President, Vice President, Secretary Treasurer, and four Executive Committeepersons. The President, Vice President, Secretary-Treasurer shall be elected for a term of one year. The four Executive committeepersons shall be elected for a term of four years; and shall serve until their successors are elected and qualified. However, at the 1999 State Convention, one shall be elected for three years, and one for four years. All the officers shall be in good standing in some district Association or subordinate unit. No member who has transferred to another postal craft shall be elected or reelected to a state, district or subordinate unit office.

Section 2. Duties. A. During the interval between the annual sessions of this

State Association, the President shall administer all its business with the advice of the Executive Board. The President shall preside at all meetings of the State Association and of the Executive Board; appoint all regular committees; have direction and supervision of the State Officers; sign all warrants drawn on the State Treasury, and all charters of subordinate associations. The President may suspend with the sanction of the Executive Board, any subordinate charter for good cause, for a limited period or until next annual session of the State Association; and may decide all questions of law, subject to appeal to the Law Committee, during the interval between the annual sessions of the State Association. The President shall report in writing to the State Association at its annual session, all official acts during the preceding year, with such suggestions and recommendations as may be deemed necessary; a copy of such recommendations shall be filed and referred to the proper committees. The President shall cause to be published in the Official Organ, the names of all committee members, together with a tentative program of the State Convention; and shall approve and be custodian of all bonds filed by the other officers.

B. The Vice President shall be Ex-Officio member of the Executive Committee and shall act as chairperson. The Vice President shall also be the chairperson of the Spring Booster meeting and the Fall State meeting.

C. The Secretary-Treasurer shall be a full time position. The Secretary-Treasurer shall keep a correct journal of all the proceedings of this Association and of the Executive Board; read, or cause to be read, the journal of all Executive Board meetings; file and preserve all books, papers, and documents belonging to said Association and conduct its correspondence under the direction of the President. The Secretary-Treasurer shall keep a record of the name, number, and location of each Subordinate Association and shall require the secretary of each county or other subordinate association, to

furnish such information as is necessary to maintain an accurate and complete roster of all regular and retired carriers in Ohio, together with their mail addresses and such other information as may be advisable for a complete record. The Secretary-Treasurer shall keep a correct financial account between this Association and the Subordinate Associations; receive all moneys due this Association and receipt for the same, depositing them promptly, have printed such official stationery and blanks as may be necessary and issue checks for payments of such printing, for Social Security Tax and for expense of printing the “Ohio Rural Carrier” without the approval of the Executive Board. At each annual meeting the Secretary-Treasurer shall furnish a full report, in writing, of all business transactions during the year and at the expiration of the term of office, or when called upon by the Executive Board, deliver to this Association or successor in office, all property belonging to this Association. The Secretary-Treasurer may, with the President’s approval, select an assistant to aid during the annual meeting. Also the Secretary-Treasurer have custody of the seal of the State Association and shall attach and affix the same to all warrants and charters issued by the authority of the President of the Executive Board of this Association. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have the Constitution and By-laws printed and shall furnish them to all members; shall close the books and make a final report to the Association before the final adjournment each year; keep a complete list of all members of this Association; furnish a complete financial and membership statement to the Official Organ for publication not later than thirty days after each annual meeting. Before entering upon the duties of office, the officer shall furnish, at the expense of the Association, a satisfactory bond in the sum of $1,000.00 and shall be protected by an indemnity bond sufficient to secure the Association against any loss caused by theft or bank failure. The Secretary-Treasurer, with the approval of the Executive Board, shall employ an accounting firm for a quarterly review of the Association financial records. This firm may also be employed to complete the required government reports.

D. The Executive Committee shall consist of the four elected State Committeepersons. They shall act as Trustees of the Association. Its duties shall be of an advisory and supervisory nature and to take charge of any office vacated for any cause, not otherwise provided for, and see that such offices are properly filled by some suitable person; to act as mileage and per diem committee and other matters requiring action as directed to do so by the Executive Board or the Convention.

Section 3. Election.A. Candidates for election as officers of this Association

shall be nominated the first business day of the


convention. Such Candidates shall identify the district unit in which they hold membership. These nominations shall remain open until the time of the election.

B. The officers of this Association shall be elected annually, except as hereinafter provided, and installed in their respective offices at the close of each annual convention, and shall assume the duties of office upon installation.

C. The election of State Officers shall be by ballot. When there is more that one candidate for the same office, it shall require a majority of all votes cast to elect. When there are more that two candidates for the same office, after the second ballot, the candidate receiving the least number of votes on each ballot shall be dropped until an election has been accomplished.

Section 4. Salaries.A. The officers shall receive such compensation as this

Association shall from time to time prescribe. B. The President shall receive a salary of $1500.00 per

annum.C. The Vice President shall receive a salary of $1000.00

per annum. D. An active regular rural carrier who is serving as the

Secretary-Treasurer on a full-time basis shall receive an annual salary of a 46-hour evaluated route at the carrier’s attained step. The salary shall be payable on a biweekly basis. Annual Leave: Be granted annual leave days equal to attained annual leave level with the Postal Service per Association fiscal year. All annual leave requires the approval of the State President. Any unused annual leave shall be payable at the current cash equivalent at the end of each fiscal year (June 30).

E. Sick Leave: 13 days per Association fiscal year. Sick leave days will be carried over from year to year. Any unused sick leave at end of the employee’s tenure as Secretary-Treasurer will be handled in accordance with the method used by the retirement system in which the employee is enrolled. The State Board shall set aside annually an amount equal to the value of any unused sick leave at the end of the fiscal year. Payment of Postal Service’s share of benefit costs: The State Association shall assume and pay those costs of benefits normally paid by the Postal Service for such employee such as retirement, health insurance, life insurance, etc

F. A retired rural carrier craft member who is serving as the Secretary-Treasurer shall receive an annual salary of a 46-hour evaluated route in Step 12. The salary shall be payable on a monthly basis. 1) Annual leave: 26 days per Association fiscal year. All annual leave requires the approval of the State President. Any unused annual leave shall be payable at the current cash equivalent at the end of each fiscal year (June 30).

2) Sick Leave: 13 days per Association fiscal year. Sick leave days will be carried over from year to year. Any unused sick leave at end of the employee’s tenure as Secretary-Treasurer will be handled in accordance with the method used by the retirement system in which the employee was enrolled. No payments are payable for fringe benefits such as retirement, health insurance, life insurance etc. As are payable for an active rural carrier on a full time basis. The State Board shall set aside annually an amount equal to the value of any unused sick leave at the end of the fiscal year.

G. Each Committeeperson shall receive a salary of $300.00 per year.

Section 5. Expenses.A. All elected State Officers who are required to fulfill the

duties of their office, shall be paid an Association Day of Pay (ADOP). (An ADOP is equivalent to the rate of pay for a 46-hour rate of pay at step 12 less statutory required deductions). This is to be on an as needed basis, subject to the approval of the Executive Board. The Editor shall receive his/her daily or hourly rate of pay less statutory required deduction, subject to the approval of the President with review by the Executive Board.

B. The President, Vice President, Secretary-Treasurer, Executive Committeepersons, Editor of the “Ohio Rural Carrier”, Auto Insurance Representative, and the PAC Chairman shall receive a mileage allowance of the IRS allowed rate per mile each way over the most direct route, hotel room expenses and per diem to cover the cost of meals not otherwise provided for in the amount of $25.00 per day for an overnight stay or attending the State Convention, $12.50 per day for association business that requires travel of at least 100 miles. In cases where one person holds more than one state office, whether elective or appointive, remuneration for per diem, mileage, and office allowance shall be limited to one office. The per diem will not exceed $25.00 per day.

C. All elected State Officers, and the appointive positions of Editor and PAC Chairman, shall receive an office allowance equal to $23.00 per pay period, with the exception of the full time secretary-treasurer.

D. The full time secretary-treasurer shall receive an office allowance equal to $300.00 per month.

Section 6. Appointees.A. The appointive officers shall be appointed by the

President within ten days after the President’s election and installation. All appointive officers shall provide a written report of their activities to the Convention body at the State Convention to be included in the printed Officers’ reports.

B. The President shall appoint an Auto Insurance Representative who shall have sole charge of all


property and records of the office. Such person shall make a complete report of the financial and activities of the Auto Insurance Plan at each Annual meeting of the Association and shall, at the expiration of such appointment or when called upon by the Executive Board, deliver to the Association or successor in office, all money and property belonging to the Association. The Auto Insurance Representative shall receive a salary of $100.00 per annum.

C. The President may appoint a PAC Chairman who would be responsible for raising PAC funds and being knowledgeable on political issues and be a source of information for the membership. Such person shall make a complete report of financial and other activities at each Annual meeting of the Association. At the expiration of such appointment or when called upon by the Executive Board, deliver to the Association or successor in office, all property belonging to the Association.

Section 7. Removal. The State Board may suspend with pay a state officer for misconduct or neglect of duty in office, pending a hearing before a committee of three members within 30 days of suspension. The members shall be selected as follows: one member selected by the State Board, one selected by the suspended officer and a chairman selected by the other two members. No state officer shall serve on the committee. The committee shall report its findings and recommendations within 30 days to the State Board. The state officer has no right to appeal.

Section 8. Vacancy in Office.A. Upon the death, absence, resignation, disqualification

or disability of the President, the Vice President shall assume the duties of the, President.

B. Upon the death, resignation or permanent disability or disqualification of any of the state officers (except as provided above) during the interval between the annual sessions of the Association, the Executive Board shall appoint some eligible member to fill the vacancy until the next annual session except in the event the vacancy occurs within sixty days preceding the State Convention, the vacancy shall be filled by election at the Convention.

ARTICLE VIMeetings

Section 1. State Convention. The annual sessions of this Association shall convene on a date to be chosen by the Executive Board and announced in our Official Organ not less than sixty days prior to such meeting at such place as this Association shall from time to time determine. The State Secretary-Treasurer shall notify all members, at least fifteen days prior to the opening of the State Convention of the time and place and the nomination and election procedures.

Section 2. Site Selection. A. The method of selection of the location of the annual

State Convention shall be as follows: The location to be rotated among 5 areas of the state divided as follows:

1. Area 1 consisting of Districts 1, 2, and 8.2. Area 2 consisting of Districts 3, 4, and 6. 3. Area 3 consisting of Districts 5, 11, and 12. 4. Area 4 consisting of Districts 7 and 10. 5. Area 5 consisting of Districts 9, 13, and 14.

B. The Executive Board is to provide to the Time and Place Committee the guidelines a proposed hosting city must meet to be considered. The change is effective with the 1993 State Convention, starting with Area 1.

C. The Association shall vote on a location and the top two selections be proposed to the Board to negotiate and select the one that best meets our requirements and is the most cost effective for holding the Convention. This change is to be effective with the vote on the 2007 Time and Place selection.

Section 3. Delegates.

A. No member shall be nominated or be a State Delegate who from the time of nomination through the end of the convention holds a position in management (either permanent or temporary) in the Postal Service; in any other postal craft; or any other job which competes with the Postal Service and/or this Association. This policy is defined as follows:

1. When a rural carrier craft member is serving in a managerial or supervisory position such as an OIC or 204B, the member is prohibited from Union participation. The member may not be nominated or serve as a State Delegate.

2. However, there are many instances where a member may be utilized by Postal Management to assist in the rural craft that equally benefit the rural craft and Postal Management. In those instances, where the individual is not in a managerial/supervisory position, the individual will not be prohibited from any Union participation. (Such examples may include, but are not limited to, assisting with route adjustments, mail count, academy trainers, automation team member, safety teams).

B. Each Rural Carrier District Association shall be represented at the State Convention by one delegate, to be known as, Delegate-at-Large. The President of each Rural Carrier District shall, by virtue of the office, serve as this delegate and the District Secretary shall be the Alternate, in the absence of both the President and Secretary, the Vice President shall be the delegate.

C. Quota. Each District Association shall be entitled to one delegate for each seven (7) members or major fraction thereof. All delegates must have submitted their


credentials to the Credentials Committee by the close of business on the second day of the Convention.

D. Alternates. Each District Association shall elect an alternate for each delegate and in case of inability of the delegate to attend the Convention, the alternate shall attend and have all rights and privileges of a regular delegate.

E. Election. (1) District Associations shall elect their delegates to the State Convention no later than 60 days prior to the State Convention. The Secretaries shall report the names of all delegates and alternates, on blanks furnished by the State, to the State Secretary/Treasurer immediately. The State Secretary/treasurer shall report the names to the State President so the President may select the various committees. The committees, together with a tentative program, shall be published in the State paper.

F. Voting may be by voice, show of hands, rising or ballot. When using voice, hands, or rising vote, all regularly seated delegates shall be eligible to vote. When voting is by ballot, each District President (or District Secretary, if no President is present, in the absence of both, the Vice President) shall be entitled to one vote, provided, that where a District is represented by less than a full delegation, the delegates present may vote the entire District vote.

Section 4. Quorum. Regular representatives of not less than 3 district Associations, nor less than twenty-five delegates in addition to the officers shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, but a less number may meet and adjourn from time to time.

Section 5. Order of Business. The order of business may be arranged in any suitable manner by the President, Executive Board, or Convention, except where this law directs otherwise.

Section 6. Special and Booster Meetings. A. Special sessions may be called by the President

upon the written request of not less than 3 district Associations, provided that no special session shall be called without thirty days’ notice to all district Associations in good standing.

B. The Rural Carriers Association shall hold a State Booster meeting or meetings. The location and date of the meeting(s) will be determined by the Executive Board. The State Vice President shall be the Chairperson of the Booster meeting(s).

ARTICLE VIINational Convention Delegates

Section 1. DelegatesA. Eligibility

1. Each state association shall be entitled to

representation by one delegate for every 100 members or major fraction thereof and one Delegate-at-Large. Membership shall be based on the number of dues withholding and cash pay Bargaining Unit and Retired Members. In order for a state to receive credit for cash pay members, dues must be received no later than the close of business on the first day of the Convention.

2. Only Bargaining Unit Members and Retired Member in good standing may be nominated, elected or seated as delegates. Such “good standing” status shall be the sole prerequisite for determining eligibility or entitlement to service as a delegate or to any payment or benefit, except that a state may establish reasonable rules to ensure attendance at the Convention.

3. A member who from the time of nomination through the end of the convention holds any position in USPS management or a job which competes with the USPS or this Association, shall be ineligible to be nominated or serve as delegate for a period of one year from the last day served in that capacity.

B. Nomination1. Within each state association, nominations for

National Delegate shall be submitted by U.S. Mail to the Secretary-Treasurer on a nominating ballot or copy. The nominating ballot shall be signed and show the name and address of the member making the nomination, and may include self-nomination. The nominating ballot shall be published in the February, March, April and May issues of The National Rural Letter Carrier.

2. Nominations must be received in the office of the State Secretary at least 40 days prior to the opening of the state convention. Upon receipt, the State Secretary shall send a notice of nomination to the candidate by U.S. Mail.

C. Elections

1. A member must be on the rolls at least 40 days prior to the opening of the state convention in order to be eligible to vote for National Delegates.

2. The State Secretary shall prepare a ballot listing the candidates for National Delegate. The list of nominees shall be placed on the ballot by drawing each name. Two members of the election committee will pull the nominee names at random and the order they are drawn is the order they shall appear on the


ballot. Instructions on each ballot shall include the number of delegates to be elected, the deadline for return of the ballot and the mailing address of the designated post office box. The number of votes cast on each ballot shall not exceed the number of delegates to which the state association was entitled at the previous convention.

3. The State Secretary shall cause the ballot to be mailed to eligible members at least 20 days prior to the opening of the state convention. In addition, the State Secretary/Designee shall arrange for the rental of a post office box for the receipt of the ballots and another for the return of undeliverable ballots.

4. An envelope marked “Ballot” shall be provided in which to seal the ballot. To permit verification of membership and to maintain the integrity of the voting procedure, an outer envelope, also marked “Ballot” which clearly identifies the name and address of the member, shall also be provided. The sealed envelope containing the ballot shall be placed in the outer envelope by the member and mailed to the designated post office box.

5. An Election Committee shall be appointed by the State President. No candidate for National Delegate may serve on the Election Committee. After the deadline for receipt of ballots, the Election Committee shall collect and tabulate the ballots at the state convention. The post office box designated for the return of ballots shall be accessible only to the Election Committee.

6. Any candidate or designee may observe the ballot tabulation. In reporting the results of the election, the candidates shall be placed on a roster in the order of votes received. The number of delegates to which the state is entitled shall be declared regular delegates; the remaining candidates shall be declared alternates.

7. Each state association shall be entitled to one Delegate-at-Large from the roster of elected regular delegates. That position shall be filled by a state officer in ranking order, beginning with the State President. A state officer may not be automatically declared a delegate by virtue of office unless elected by direct vote of the membership. National-Paid Delegates shall be named in accordance with the plurality of votes received. Those individuals serving as Delegate-at-Large or National Paid Delegate shall be reimbursed the difference between

National paid allowance and State paid allowance if the National allowance is less than that received by State Delegates.

8. The State Secretary shall prepare credentials in duplicate for the Delegate-at-Large, regular delegates and an appropriate number of alternates immediately following the state convention and send originals to the National Secretary-Treasurer. The duplicate shall be provided to the delegate for identification. The state’s seal shall be embossed on the face of credentials.

9. Delegates holding proper credentials shall be seated at the National Convention if their state has paid National Per Capita Tax for members in good standing. The National Secretary-Treasurer shall notify each state association of the status of its National Per Capita Tax at least two weeks prior to the National Convention.

10. The number of candidates to be voted upon by each member shall not be more than the total number of delegates to which the State Association was entitled to the previous year. Appropriate instructions shall be on each ballot stating the number of delegates to be elected and the name and mailing address of the designated post office box at which the ballot must be received prior to the cut-off date Delegates and alternates shall be declared in the order of their finish. In the case of a tie vote for any candidates which may be used to fill delegate position(s), the order of finish shall be determined by the delegate’s name placement on the ballot by the Election Committee before they are relieved of their duties.11.The results of the National Delegates Election to be published in the state paper following the state convention and those that served as delegates are published following the national convention. 12. In the event there are not enough delegates present at

the National Convention for the number of State votes, those votes not represented by a delegate shall be cast according to the majority vote of those delegates present at the Convention session.

Section 2. Compensation of State-Paid National Delegates. This State Association at each annual meeting shall determine the number of National Delegates, within its quota, for that year and shall make provisions for their expenses as follows: Delegates (not including Delegate-at-large and National paid) attending the National Convention shall be paid mileage from Columbus, Ohio to the National Convention city, not to exceed 1500 miles, at the rate twice the current IRS allowed rate for one way travel by the most direct route over Federal State Highways, as determined by the State Board. Per Diem shall also be paid at the rate of $180.00 per day for five (5) days. A delegate may be excused


by the chairperson of the delegation to attend committee meetings or other business pertaining to the National Convention to which they may be assigned. Those delegates determined to be alternates at the State Convention who are changed to regular delegates, shall receive a pro-rated allowance for each half day they attend the National Convention session, provided they are in attendance at the Tuesday afternoon session.

ARTICLE VIIIState Board

Section 1. Members. A. The Executive Board shall consist of the President,

Vice President, Secretary-Treasurer, and four Executive Committeepersons. They shall have one vote each in the State Convention except for the election of Officers. They shall examine all bills and approve or disapprove the same and act as trustees of the Association. They shall have charge of all property of this Association. At the expiration of the term of office or when called upon by the Executive Board they shall deliver to this association or successor in office all property belonging to this association.

B. The immediate past president of the Ohio Rural Letter Carriers’ Association may be retained in an advisory capacity for assistance to the President as an Ex-Officio member of the Executive Board for a period of one year. There will be no compensation. Per Diem and expenses the same as Executive Board members may be allowed. The said individual as an Ex-Officio member of the Executive Board will have no voting power.

Section 2. Duties. The Executive Board shall maintain a publication to be known as “The Ohio Rural Carrier” which shall be distributed to the members upon such terms as the Board may decide. For this purpose they may use any unexpended balance in the treasury of this Association and shall turn over to the Association Secretary-Treasurer all receipts arising from this source. They shall employ an Editor, selected from the membership, at a salary of $1200.00 per year, and shall in general supervise the work. Such person shall keep an accurate account of all receipts and expenditures and shall render same to the Executive Board immediately prior to the State Convention.

Section 3. Meetings.A. The President shall direct the Editor of the “Ohio Rural

Carrier” to publish in the paper not less than thirty days in advance of any scheduled OHRLCA Executive Board meeting with time and dates and places of such meeting.

B. The President shall direct the Editor of the “Ohio Rural Carrier” to publish a condensed version of the minutes of all OHRLCA Executive Board meetings within sixty days of such meetings.

C. All State Board Meetings are open meetings to any member of the Association who wishes to attend. The State Board may vote to go into Executive Session for a specific reason.

ARTICLE IXCommittees

Section 1. Convention Committees. A. Credentials Committee, shall be composed of three

members who shall be appointed in advance from the list of regularly named delegates then in the hands of the President. At least one of this committee shall be on hand the evening before the Convention and in conjunction with the Secretary-Treasurer, shall receive credentials and distribute delegates’ badges; they shall make a partial report to the Convention before adjournment of the first session. The Credentials Committee shall have at least one carry over member from the immediate previous year. If this carry over member is not present on the first day of the Convention, the President shall appoint, first a past committee chairman, or second a past State or National Officer to the committee

B. The Law Committee shall be composed of five members appointed in advance from the list of regular delegates in the hands of the President. They will only consider all signed and dated matters or recommendations pertaining to the laws of this Association that are received by mail, at the Secretary-Treasurer’s office five (5) days prior to the opening session of the Convention. These proposed changes must be in the possession of the Committee prior to the meeting of the committee. Proposed amendments submitted after this deadline will not be considered by the Law Committee but may be considered under new business at the discretion of the maker. These recommendations will be read at one session of the Convention. The Law Committee shall have at least two carry over members from the immediate previous year. If these carry over members are not present on the first day of the Convention, the President shall appoint, first a past committee chairman, or second a past State or National Officer to the committee.

C. The Resolution Committee shall be composed of five members appointed in advance from the list of regular delegates in the hands of the President. They will only weigh and consider all signed and dated resolutions that are received by mail, at the Secretary-Treasurer’s office five (5) days prior to the opening session of the Convention. These proposed changes must be in the possession of the Committee prior to the meeting of the committee. Proposed resolutions submitted after this deadline will not be considered by the Resolution Committee but may be considered under new business at the discretion of the maker. They will make reports in the same manner and at the same sessions as the Law Committee. The Resolutions


Committee shall have at least two carry over members from the immediate previous year. If these carry over members are not present on the first day of the Convention, the President shall appoint, first a past committee chairman, or second a past State or National Officer to the committee.

D. An Election Committee, composed of seven members, or more, shall be appointed in advance from the list of regular delegates then in the hands of the President. If an unusual number of ballots are received, or if an unusual circumstance should arise, the President may make additional appointments after the opening session of the Convention as the needs may require. The Election Committee shall conduct the vote tabulation for National Delegates in accordance with Article VII, Section C, Paragraphs 2, 5, 6 and 10.

Section 2. Special Committees. A. The Auditing Committee, composed of five members,

shall be appointed in advance from the list of regularly named delegates in the hands of the President. They shall examine the books and accounts of the Secretary-Treasurer and report their findings immediately after the report of the Secretary-Treasurer has been read. The Auditing Committee shall have at least two carry over members from the immediate previous year. If these carry over members are not present on the first day of the Convention, the President shall appoint, first a past committee chairman, or second a past State or National Officer to the committee

B. Time and Place Committee. The Time and Place Committee shall be composed of five members from the area in which the annual convention will be held in three years will be appointed by the President prior to the close of each annual convention. This committee will report their recommendations at the next annual convention following their appointment.

ARTICLE X Steward System Refer to the NRLCA Constitution Article IX.

ARTICLE XI AppealsSection 1. StateA . member aggrieved by any action of a state association,

officer or steward shall have the right to appeal to the State Board.

1. Appeals must be in writing and be filed with the State President within 30 days of having knowledge of said action.

2. Within 10 days of receipt of the appeal, the State President shall notify all members of the State Board and the assigned Executive Committeeman and shall request that the Charging Party provide a letter outlining the specific charges and any relief sought. This letter of specificity, along with

complete documentation, must be returned within 20 days of receipt of the President’s request.

1. Upon receipt of the letter of specificity, the State President shall forward a copy to the Charged Party for response. The Charged Party shall have 20 days to respond in writing and provide documentation to the State President.

2. The State Board shall review the Charging Party’s letter of specificity, documentation, relief sought and the response of the Charged Party. The State Board is authorized, in consultation with the Executive Committeeman, to take the necessary action to resolve the issue within 30 days. Extension of this 30-day time limit, when necessary, shall not exceed 15 days. The Charging Party(s) and Charged Party(s) (hereafter referred to as the Party or Parties) shall be notified in writing of the decision of the State Board.

A. A Party not satisfied with this decision, or any other action of the State Board on said appeal, shall have the right to appeal to the National Board.1. This appeal must be in writing and be filed with

the President of the National Association within 30 days of receipt of the State Board’s decision.

2. Within 15 days of receipt of an appeal, the National Board shall notify the National Appeals Commission. The President shall notify the State President and the Parties that the appeal has been received and forwarded to the National Appeals Commission.

3. Within 30 days, the National Appeals Commission shall investigate each appeal and report its findings and recommendations in writing to the National Board. Upon receipt of the findings and recommendations of the Appeals Commission, the National President shall notify the Parties that the findings and recommendations are before the National Board. The National Board shall render a decision and notify the Parties in writing within a reasonable period of time.

A Party not satisfied with the decision of the National Board shall have the right to appeal to the next Convention of the National Association.1. This appeal must be in writing and be filed

with the National President within 30 days of receipt of the National Board’s decision. The appeal, if received more than 45 days prior to the National Convention, will be scheduled for that Convention. If received within 45 days of the Convention the appeal may be held until the following National Convention.

2. Within 15 days of receipt of said appeal, the President shall notify the Parties that the appeal has been received and shall be forwarded to a National Appeals Committee.

3. The Appeals Committee shall complete an investigation and report its findings and


recommendations in writing to the Parties and to the President of the state association at least 24 hours before the report is presented to the National Delegates.

Section 2. NationalA. A member aggrieved by any action of the

National Association or Officer thereof shall have the right to appeal directly to the National Board.

1. The appeal must be in writing and be filed with the National President within 30 days of the action.2. Within 15 days of receipt of the appeal, the National Board shall retain the appeal for investigation, forward the appeal to the National Appeals Commission or, if received within 90 days of the first business session of the National Convention, refer the appeal to the Appeals Committee. The President shall notify the Charging Party(s) of the appeal’s receipt and disposition.3. Should the National Board retain the appeal, it shall investigate, render a decision and notify the Charging Party(s) in writing within a reasonable period of time.4. Should the National Board forward the appeal to the National Appeals Commission, the commission shall complete an investigation and report its findings and recommendations in writing to the National Board within 30 days. Upon receipt, the National President shall notify the Charging Party(s) that the Commission’s report is before the National Board. The National Board shall render a decision and notify the Charging Party(s) in writing within a reasonable period of time.5. Should the National Board refer the appeal to the Appeals Committee, the appeal shall be handled in accordance with the provisions that follow.B. A Party not satisfied with a decision rendered by the National Board shall have the right to appeal to the next National Convention.1. The appeal must be in writing and be filed with the National President within 30 days of receipt of the National Board’s decision. The appeal, if received more than 45 days prior to the National Convention, will be scheduled for that Convention. If received within 45 days of the Convention the appeal may be held until the following National Convention.2. Within 15 days of receipt of the appeal, the President shall notify the Party(s) that the appeal has been received and shall be forwarded to a National Appeals Committee.3. The Appeals Committee shall complete an investigation and report its findings and recommendations in writing to the Parties at least 24 hours before the report is presented to the National Delegates.

Section 3. AdministrationAt every level of appeal, members shall be afforded the rights of due process and the right to appeal an

adverse decision to the next level. The National Board shall have full authority to intervene to protect the members of this Association. Correspondence shall be by certified mail, return receipt requested. Costs of the state investigation and action shall be borne by the state association; costs of the National Appeals Commission and Appeals Committee shall be borne by the National Association. No legal proceeding may be initiated until the appeal procedures provided herein have been exhausted.

ARTICLE XIIParliamentary Authority

Parliamentary authority for the conduct of business shall be “Robert’s Rules of Order”.

ARTICLE XIIIAmendment of Constitution

This constitution can be amended by submitting the amendment in writing at an annual convention and passed upon after a reading at two sessions and after it shall be concurred in by a vote of two-thirds of the voting members present, It shall be from that time a part of the constitution.

The Executive Board is hereby empowered to make such interim amendments to the Constitution of the Association as may be necessary to conform to the requirements of Federal Law, such amendments to be effective only until the next following convention of the Association.

This Constitution adopted at Cincinnati, Ohio, June 9, 2015, shall supersede all others which are hereby repealed.


Auxiliary OfficersPRESIDENTED COX4780 Stony CreekUrbana, OH 43078Phone [email protected]

VICE PRESIDENTJODI BURKE4822 Delevan Dr.Lyndhurst, Ohio 44124Phone [email protected]

SECRETARY/TREASURERDIANA HAUSFELDP. O. Box 105Minster, OH 45865-0105Phone [email protected]

EXECUTIVE BOARDSandy Schwartz, Chairman of the Board10 Eastmoor CourtNew Bremen, OH 45869-1101Phone [email protected]

Paul Ortz, Secretary / Provident Guild Rep.11696 Youngstown Pitts Rd.New Middletown, OH 44442Phone [email protected]

Cindy Gamble, Junior Advisor4123 Southern Blvd.Youngstown, Ohio 44512-1242Phone [email protected]

Pat Singelyn, Junior Sponsor18991 Munn Rd.Chagrin Falls, OH 44023Phone [email protected]

2015-2016 JUNIOR OFFICERSPresident, Samantha Fernandez1997 Riverview DrDefiance OH 43512

Vice President , Riley Hausfeld4860 Ft Loramie Swanders RdMinster OH 45865

Secretary, Morgan Todd610 West State StreetSalem, OH 44460

Treasurer, Nate Hausfeld4860 Ft Loramie Swanders RdMinster OH 45865

Wow! 2016 already!

If I’d known I’d live this long, I would have taken better care of myself. But, seriously, it’s a new year. A new year means new opportunities. One opportunity I am proud to be a part of is the schol-arships made available to our young people through the Auxiliary. It is very important that all questions are answered, instructions are followed, and forms submitted on time.

Applicants must be a child or grandchild of an NRLCA member to be eligible.

Qualifications may not be the same for each scholarship, so please read carefully.

Auxiliary board members will have the applications available at the spring district meetings and you can also find them on the NRLCA .org website under NRLCA National Auxiliary.

Please make plans to attend your meetings. There is strength in numbers and knowledge.

Your friend, Ed Cox

Ed CoxPresident

Year of the Family

2015-2016 Humanitarian Project: MS Research; Motto: Celebrate Your Family;

Symbol: King Penguin Family;Americanism: Support Your Local USO;

Safety: Car Safety Songs “You Raise Me Up” & God Bless The USA”;

Flower: Spring Bouquet;

Inspiration: “ I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people

will never forget how you madethem feel” ....Maya Angelou


If a hearing impaired member needs a sign language interpreter for a state wide meeting, please advise our State Secretary Koren two weeks prior to meeting date.

Upcoming Events

April 13, 2016Deadline for Credentials for the

State Convention

April 29 – May 1, 2016 Mid-States Conference

Country Inn Suites 5353 No 27th St

Lincoln Nebraska 68521

May 3, 2016Deadline for Delegate Nominations for the National Convention

May 4, 2016National Convention Delegate

Nominee’s Name Draw for Placement on Ballot

May 9, 2016, 11:00 AMMay 10, 2016, 9:00AM

OHRLCA Board MeetingDoubletree Worthington

175 Hutchison AveColumbus OH

June 7, 2016Constitution Changes and Resolution are due in the

Secretary/Treasurer’s Office

June 10, 2016, 11:00AMPre-Convention Board Meeting

Doubletree Worthington175 Hutchison Ave

Columbus OH

June 12-14, 2016OHRLCA State Convention


Columbus OH

June 15, 2016, 9:00AM Post Convention Board Meeting


Columbus OH

August 16-19, 2016NRLCA National Convention

Gaylord Opryland Resort2800 Opryland Dr

Nashville TN

Non-ProfitU. S. Postage

PAIDPermit #225

Youngstown, OH

MembersSend Address Changes to:Ohio Rural Letter Carriers Association104 Clay Road SWDellroy, OH 44620-9757

DEADLINE for the April/May issue is March 3, 2016. Please have all articles to Editor Barbara Pitts by that date to

[email protected]

Official Notice of Annual Meeting2016 Annual State Convention

June 12-14, 2016Columbus OH

Sunday June 12th – Registration, Opening Session, Nominations of State Officers (Nominations remain open till election on Tuesday Afternoon).

Vacancies to be filled: President, Vice President, Secretary-Treasurer, 4-year Committeeman and any Committeeman position that may become vacant at the Convention. Positions to be appointed will be state editor and state chaplain.

Monday, June 13th – National Officers Address. Last day to file Delegate Credentials by 5:00PM. Report of the National Delegate

Election Committee, Report of Time and Place Committee, Selection of 2018 Convention city, Banquet in the evening. PAC Reverse Raffle valuable items.

Tuesday, June 14th – Election of State Officers, Report of Law and Resolution Committees, Unfinished Business

Only the duly elected delegates from each District Organization may vote for the candidate for office.