From A to Arbitration

Latest Episodes:

Episode 181: Let's get into 6-day counts Sep 09, 2024

Show notes

This episode delves into the complexities of 6-day counts, providing a comprehensive analysis of several arbitration cases to equip listeners with the knowledge to effectively handle these situations. Corey begins with listener shout-outs, expressing gratitude for their support and highlighting the contributions of various members and branches. He then corrects a previous shout-out and discusses a listener's negative reaction to the GoFundMe campaign for Corey.

The core of the episode involves a detailed review of several arbitration cases concerning route adjustments and inspections. Corey meticulously reads excerpts from these decisions, emphasizing recurring themes and providing valuable insights for stewards and advocates. Key areas of focus include: management's frequent failure to adhere to established procedures (e.g., providing necessary information to carriers and the union in a timely manner), the importance of demonstrating harm caused by improper route adjustments, and the utilization of work hour workload reports to illustrate overburdened routes. Corey emphasizes the need for strong language (such as "cease and desist") in grievance settlements and highlights the importance of ensuring arbitrators understand the impact of management's actions on carriers' working conditions and well-being. Specific attention is given to how the arbitrators addressed the issue of carrier input, management's attempts to use signatures on forms as proof of agreement, and the inclusion of CCAs in remedy calculations.

Corey discusses several instances of management misconduct, including the imposition of unrealistic case time limits, the use of scanner data to target carriers for discipline, and the practice of taking unauthorized photographs of carriers' cases. He provides a detailed grievance template for addressing the issue of management taking pictures of carriers' cases, along with relevant contract provisions, contentions, and sample b team decisions. He stresses the importance of challenging management's use of technology for surveillance and disciplinary actions, emphasizing the need to rely on evidence-based arguments and to avoid being intimidated or manipulated.

The episode concludes with an overview of resources for handling 6-day counts, including promotion of the NALC Branch 458 podcast and John Murphy's YouTube videos. Corey reiterates the importance of preparation and encourages members to become well-versed in the relevant regulations and procedures. He emphasizes the need to aggressively challenge management's actions during 6-day counts and to utilize those situations to secure significant monetary remedies for carriers. He concludes by announcing future episodes focused on 6-day counts and emphasizing his commitment to educating and empowering letter carriers.

Cites: https://fromatoarbitration.com/episodes-101-200/

https://fromatoarbitration.com/

Episode 180: Mike Caref talking National Rap Session on Sunday 09/08/2024 Sep 03, 2024

Show notes

This episode focuses on an upcoming nationwide rap session organized by Mike Caref to discuss the ongoing contract negotiations and strategize for a strong contract. Caref explains the session's goals: to analyze any tentative agreement (if reached), to utilize the recently passed open bargaining resolution to improve transparency and member engagement, and to develop plans for mobilizing the membership.

He outlines the planned speakers: Josh Brouillette (discussing the recently passed resolution on member updates and public mobilization), Tyler Vasseur (providing an update on the Build a Fighting NALC movement and sharing a template letter for members to contact Renfroe), Dave Grosskopf (detailing successful strategies for public rallies), Elise Foster (sharing insights from Chicago rallies), and Tom Cser (presenting on member mobilization for elections and ratification votes). Caref will also speak, along with Corey Walton, and James Henry.

Caref emphasizes the importance of member participation and unity in achieving a strong contract, noting the significant impact of inflation on letter carriers' wages and the need to address non-economic issues. He highlights the shortcomings of the current negotiation process, particularly the lack of transparency and the resulting disengagement of the membership. He also addresses criticism surrounding the decision to hold the rap session on a Sunday, acknowledging scheduling conflicts but emphasizing the importance of the session despite these concerns. He promotes the rap session's goal to educate members on their rights and expectations so they can participate meaningfully in the final decision-making process concerning the new contract.

The discussion delves into the challenges faced in the current negotiation process, highlighting the union's failure to maintain a strong, assertive bargaining approach. They discuss the need to re-weaponize arbitration, the lack of accountability for management's non-compliance with grievance settlements, and the importance of a unified strategy across all regions. Caref expresses concern that the current prolonged negotiation process may lead to members accepting a less-than-ideal contract due to financial pressures. He stresses that members should remain engaged, informed, and prepared to advocate for a contract that truly meets their needs. They provide details on how to register for the rap session and emphasize the importance of collective action in achieving the best possible outcome.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdusYcfs1rCtag_S3VNfMnliKOkUoU1lJXi8Jh3iE3r1Njq-A/viewform?pli=1

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Episode 179: Getting ready for the 6-day count, volume one Aug 27, 2024

Show notes

This episode focuses on preparing letter carriers for upcoming 6-day counts by providing in-depth analysis of several arbitration cases related to route adjustments and inspections. Corey begins by announcing plans for future episodes, including a multi-part series on 6-day counts and a new educational podcast series for the CLC. He expresses his gratitude to Mallory Sutton for updating the FromAtoArbitration.com website and encourages members to utilize the site's resources. He then clarifies a previous shout-out, correcting misinformation about Corey Grott's relationship with the podcast.

The main portion of the episode involves Corey reading excerpts from seven arbitration decisions. He highlights key aspects of each case, emphasizing recurring themes such as management's failure to follow established procedures, the importance of carrier input in route adjustments, and the use of work hour workload reports to demonstrate overburdened routes. He stresses the importance of collecting detailed carrier statements to showcase the negative impact of improper route adjustments on working conditions and employee well-being. He also emphasizes the use of strong language, such as "cease and desist," in grievance settlements to ensure compliance.

Corey specifically draws attention to certain arbitration decisions and their implications for addressing 6-day counts. He points out the importance of the threshold of 8 hours and 15 minutes commonly used by arbitrators in determining whether routes are overburdened and emphasizes how the arbitrators addressed the issue of carrier input into route adjustments, how they dealt with management's attempts to use signatures on forms as proof of agreement, and how they addressed the inclusion of CCAs in remedy calculations. Corey stresses the need for thorough preparation, including the utilization of all available documentation and a strong understanding of the relevant handbook provisions.

The episode concludes with an encouragement for listeners to utilize the provided resources, emphasizing the value of repetition and study in mastering the complexities of route adjustments and grievance procedures. Corey promises to provide more detailed information on 6-day counts in future episodes.

Cites: https://fromatoarbitration.com/episodes-101-200/

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Episode 178: Question and answer period with 'The Wolf' James Henry Aug 25, 2024

Show notes

This episode features a question-and-answer session with James Henry, NALC vice president and CLC presidential candidate. Henry begins with a detailed introduction outlining his extensive experience within the NALC and the Marine Corps, emphasizing his commitment to service and his dedication to representing letter carriers.

The Q&A section covers a range of topics. Henry expresses his support for creating user-friendly online training resources for NALC members and for allowing members to livestream or record union meetings. He discusses his plans to improve member education and communication, stressing the importance of leading by example and fostering a more unified union. He addresses accusations of falling asleep during meetings, citing personal and family issues as contributing factors. He defends his relatively low level of political action committee (PAC) contributions by emphasizing his extensive involvement in political activities beyond financial contributions. He also explains his decision to remain relatively quiet in the lead-up to the convention. He states his decision to remain relatively quiet prior to the convention was a conscious choice to avoid engaging in negativity and to maintain a focus on integrity and positive action.

Henry defends himself against allegations of misconduct from his early career, asserting his innocence and highlighting his subsequent successful career with the union and the Marine Corps. He details several instances where he actively worked to ensure fair treatment of letter carriers, highlighting two key arbitration cases which resulted in significant financial settlements for members who were victims of management misconduct. He details his role in reforming the NALC's dispute resolution process to improve accountability.

He then discusses his plans for contract negotiations, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and a more aggressive approach to bargaining with the USPS. He stresses the importance of keeping the negotiation process moving towards a timely resolution and avoiding the pitfalls of previous contract cycles. He addresses the need to mobilize rank and file members, outlining strategies to increase member engagement and participation, especially in voting and the grievance process. He expresses his opposition to using the grievance process for non-legitimate issues and strongly advocates for the use of cease-and-desist language in settlements.

Finally, he discusses the outcome of the Renfroe charges at the convention, emphasizing his belief that the membership should have the final say on such matters. He comments on the challenges of navigating union politics, the importance of building a united front, and his vision for a stronger, more member-focused NALC. The interview concludes with a commitment to continue fighting for the rights and well-being of letter carriers.

https://concernedlettercarriers.com/

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Episode 177: Let's clear up some things Aug 20, 2024

Show notes

This emergency Monday episode addresses rumors circulating about Corey Walton's experience with postal inspectors at the NALC convention. Walton clarifies that he was questioned for approximately 25 minutes, was not arrested or charged, and was not removed from the convention floor. He explains that the GoFundMe campaign initiated by JB was intended as a thank you for his podcast work, not for legal fees or personal gain, and clarifies that he never intended to accept any donations.

Walton addresses criticism of the GoFundMe campaign on Reddit, refuting accusations of unethical behavior and emphasizing that listening to and donating to the podcast are entirely voluntary. He expresses his deep faith and his commitment to fighting for the city letter carriers, regardless of personal consequences.

The episode continues with additional listener shout-outs and then shifts to discuss the implications of a letter from James Lloyd regarding the heat illness prevention program (HIPP) training. Walton criticizes Lloyd's assertion that HIPP training is at management's sole discretion, highlighting the contradiction between this statement and previous USPS communications emphasizing the requirement for annual HIPP training. He notes that Congress has also weighed in, emphasizing the need for improved heat safety standards within the USPS.

Walton emphasizes the power of member action, highlighting how carrier grievances and public pressure have led the USPS to reconsider its approach to HIPP training. He encourages members to continue fighting for better safety and working conditions and to actively seek training on how to file effective grievances. He provides an update on plans for future podcasts, including a new series of episodes on 6-day counts and another series on the CLC website dedicated to educational content. He promotes the From A to Arbitration Community Facebook page. He ends by reiterating his unwavering commitment to fighting for the city letter carriers, and his plans to continue the podcast.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1218014406302643

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Episode 176: A thank you Aug 19, 2024

Show notes

This episode is a heartfelt thank you to Corey Walton from JB, who expresses deep gratitude for Walton's dedication and work on the From A to Arbitration podcast. JB begins with updates on his personal life and recent baseball coaching experiences. He then transitions to expressing his appreciation for Walton's mentorship and support throughout his union career.

JB details Walton's tireless efforts in educating and empowering letter carriers, highlighting his consistent willingness to help others and his dedication to fighting for better working conditions. He describes witnessing Walton's interactions with members in Boston, emphasizing his compassion, dedication, and ability to inspire.

The core of the episode is a surprise announcement of a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for Corey Walton. JB reveals that Walton has been investigated by postal inspectors due to his podcast and explains that the GoFundMe is intended as an expression of gratitude for Walton's unwavering commitment and sacrifices. He urges listeners to donate and share the GoFundMe link, emphasizing the importance of this gesture as a way of showing appreciation for Walton's work and of supporting the ongoing fight for better conditions within the NALC.

JB concludes by reiterating his deep respect and admiration for Walton, expressing his inability to sleep since learning of the postal inspector's investigation, and emphasizing his desire to give something back for Walton's selfless contributions. He promotes upcoming educational podcasts (including a new series with himself and Corey for the CLC) and encourages members to continue their own efforts to improve their working conditions and hold both management and the union accountable. The episode ends with a strong call to action for listeners to participate in the GoFundMe and show their support for Corey Walton.

https://gofund.me/858ddb84

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Episode 175: With Boston behind us, what does the future hold? My promise to you! Aug 12, 2024

Show notes

This post-convention episode of From A to Arbitration reflects on the NALC convention in Boston and looks ahead to future union activities. Corey begins by acknowledging the intensity of the convention and thanking several individuals for their support. He corrects a previous shout-out, noting that Corey Grott is not a listener or supporter of the podcast. He then shares numerous listener shout-outs, emphasizing the widespread support for the podcast and the ongoing fight for better working conditions.

Corey analyzes the convention's outcomes, emphasizing that while the appeals on the Renfroe charges were not fully successful, the fact that the convention delegates were able to vote on them represents a significant victory for member empowerment and accountability. He notes the strong showing by the CLC and highlights Tyler Vasseur's powerful speech and the establishment's subsequent backlash, emphasizing the clear divide between the rank and file and the existing union leadership.

Corey expresses his frustration with business agents who attempted to influence the vote, highlighting instances of strong-arming and intimidation tactics. He notes the hypocrisy of the union leadership's actions given their previous inaction on key issues like hip training and the ongoing issues with management's use of GPS data. He emphasizes the growing momentum of the CLC and other rank-and-file movements, anticipating significant changes in the union's leadership in 2026.

Corey announces a future series of episodes on 6-day counts, promising to provide members with the tools and information needed to prepare and file grievances effectively. He also mentions upcoming podcast guests, including Mike Caref and the Angry Mailman. The Angry Mailman discusses the need for greater member participation at the local level and promotes his YouTube channel. Mike Caref analyzes the outcomes of the convention, focusing on the significant vote to hear the appeals and the implications for future union leadership.

Caref highlights the importance of open bargaining and discusses the need for a stronger, more unified union, capable of effectively combating management abuses. He emphasizes the need for a more aggressive approach to grievance handling and contract negotiations. The episode concludes with Corey reiterating his commitment to fighting for the city letter carriers, emphasizing the importance of education and member engagement in building a stronger, more effective union. He promises to continue providing resources and support to members in the coming years and encourages continued participation in the ongoing reform efforts.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Episode 174: Boston Day 4.. The Establishment Aug 08, 2024

Show notes

This episode is a recap of the fourth day of the NALC convention in Boston, focusing on the continued appeals hearings and the ongoing fallout from the handling of the Renfroe charges. Corey begins by announcing the "From A to Arbitration Shirt Day" will be Wednesday and clarifies information about the 50/50 raffle. He then shares several listener shout-outs, expressing gratitude for the ongoing support and highlighting the contributions of various members and branches.

Corey details the second day of the appeals hearings, noting that the votes on the charges against Renfroe followed a similar pattern to the previous day, with a significant margin of votes in favor of upholding the guilty verdict on at least some of the charges. He expresses his frustration with business agents who attempted to influence the vote by threatening members with career repercussions. He states his intention to publicly name the offending individuals and calls for Article 10 charges to be filed against them.

He recounts Gary Lang's successful confrontation of Renfroe, highlighting the comical aspect of Renfroe's inability to answer questions about his actions. He expresses approval of the fact that the delegates were ultimately able to hear and vote on the charges and emphasizes the importance of maintaining open bargaining and transparency within the NALC.

Corey analyzes Renfroe's performance during the hearing on the DUI charge, noting his somber demeanor and the strategic use of the alcoholism mitigating factor. However, he points out Renfroe's lack of remorse and apology, emphasizing that this likely played a role in the significant number of delegates who voted against him despite the mitigating circumstances. He predicts that Renfroe will have more difficulty defending himself against the charges related to James Henry due to the lack of an alcoholism defense.

Corey expresses further outrage over the fact that Renfroe hired an in-house counsel without the executive council's approval, highlighting this as an example of his disregard for the union's established processes and his blatant disregard for the union's constitution. He continues to emphasize that the current leadership of the NALC is failing to represent its members and that widespread change is necessary. He notes the growing momentum of the CLC movement and expresses confidence in their ability to secure victory in the upcoming election. The episode concludes with additional shout-outs, a discussion of the importance of member engagement, and a promise to provide daily updates from the convention. Corey reiterates his strong support for the CLC and his determination to fight for the city letter carriers.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Episode 173: Boston day 3. History Made and the Appeal Aug 08, 2024

Show notes

This episode provides a recap of day three of the NALC convention in Boston, focusing on the appeals hearing for the Article 10 charges against President Renfroe. Corey begins with listener shout-outs and then discusses the CLC's activities, highlighting the large turnout at both the meet-and-greet and the roundtable discussion. He also mentions the real-time convention updates being provided on Discord.

Corey details Gary Lang's confrontation with Renfroe regarding the S&DC MOU, praising Lang's effective questioning and exposure of Renfroe's actions. He suggests Lang should file Article 10 charges against Renfroe for violating the MOU. Corey then discusses the "From A to Arbitration Shirt Day" and notes that some branch leaders attempted to prevent members from wearing the shirts, highlighting the level of anxiety within the establishment.

The account of the appeals hearing emphasizes the strong showing by the CLC and the passionate engagement of the delegates. Miller's presentation focused on the procedural errors made by Renfroe in attempting to prevent the appeals from being heard. Corey analyzes Renfroe's strategy during the hearing on the AWOL charge, noting his use of the alcoholism mitigating factor and his lack of remorse or apology. He highlights the fact that a significant portion of the delegates did not accept Renfroe's alcoholism defense, indicating a lack of support for his position.

Corey anticipates the upcoming hearing on the charges relating to James Henry, predicting that Renfroe will have more difficulty defending himself as the alcoholism mitigating factor will be less relevant. He highlights the procedural irregularities and the potential for bias displayed during the hearings. He criticizes the actions of MBAs who attempted to influence the votes on the charges. Corey expresses optimism about the CLC's success in achieving its goals, emphasizing the growing support amongst the rank and file and their determination to bring about meaningful change in the union.

The episode concludes with details on upcoming CLC events in Boston and a call for continued member engagement and action. Corey expresses excitement about the convention and reiterates his commitment to fighting for the city letter carriers.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Episode 172: Boston day 2. Some shout outs and the Lions are running loose. Aug 07, 2024

Show notes

This episode recaps the second day of the NALC convention in Boston, focusing on the CLC's activities and the overall atmosphere. Corey begins by highlighting the success of the CLC's meet and greet and roundtable events, both of which were extremely well-attended, demonstrating strong member support for the movement. He encourages listeners to follow the convention updates being provided on Discord. He then shares several shout-outs from listeners, thanking them for their support and highlighting their contributions to the union.

Corey discusses the vote on the resolution to overturn Renfroe's decision to prevent the hearing of the appeals on the charges, emphasizing the significant margin of victory and the importance of this victory for member empowerment. He then introduces Jamie Partridge, who discusses the Rank and File Exchange event and the importance of open communication and coordinated action among rank-and-file members.

Partridge highlights the need to share information and resources across branches, contrasting this with the current lack of transparency and communication from the national union leadership. He emphasizes the growing momentum within the rank and file for reform and change. Corey highlights the significance of the vote as an expression of member power.

Corey shares additional listener shout-outs and then introduces a special guest, Mike Caref, who provides an update on the planned balloon release to honor the recently murdered Chicago letter carrier. He expresses frustration with the lack of action taken by the union to protect letter carriers from violence and advocates for greater resources and protection for letter carriers, including a dedicated postal police force.

Corey introduces another special guest, Gary Lang, who discusses the events surrounding Renfroe's manipulation of the S&DC agreement. Lang expresses anger over Renfroe's actions and the lack of support from the business agent. The conversation delves into the power dynamics within the union, the challenges of combating management abuses, and the need for greater accountability among union leaders. Corey again emphasizes the need for a more militant union approach. Lang details his efforts to address the situation and his frustration with Renfroe's lack of response and apparent disregard for the issues faced by the branch. He expresses his intention to file charges against Renfroe.

Corey introduces another guest, Charlie Miller, who provides a detailed analysis of the first day's events. The discussion covers the strategic maneuvering during the vote, the significance of the vote, and the importance of having the appeals heard by the convention delegates. Miller expresses his dissatisfaction with the executive council's handling of the situation and his strong support for the CLC's efforts to promote greater transparency and accountability. He also highlights the unusual security measures taken at the convention, suggesting this reflects the fear amongst the leadership towards the rank and file movement.

Corey offers some additional details on upcoming convention events, including a CLC panel discussion and an after-hours meet-and-greet. He then shares some messages that demonstrate how management is still attempting to manipulate and control carriers through scanner data and unrealistic time expectations, especially concerning stationary events. Corey closes with an impassioned plea for the membership to remain united, actively resist management abuses, and support the ongoing efforts for reform within the NALC.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

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