March 2003

Minutes of the March 2003 General Meeting

The regular meeting of Branch 782 was called to order by President Frank Thomasy at 7:32p.m. the 25th day of March 2003, at the Branch office, 2628 F Street, Bakersfield. The flag salute was led by Sergeant at-Arms Jeff Harris All members of the Executive Board were present except Trustee Bill Curtis. The stewards from 01, 04, 05,06, 08, 09, Camino Media, Delano, Lamont, Shafter and Wasco were present. Also present were Newsletter Editor Basil Zuniga and Assistant Editor Gene Shebley. Anita Holderman of the Social and Recreation Committee was also present.

The minutes of the February 25, 2003 meeting were read and accepted with no additions or corrections. The communications were read. The bills were read by Treasurer, Molly Biggar. Joe Jones made a motion to pay the bills. Seconded by Clint Gallaher and passed.

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP: An application was received from David Wooley.

Frank Thomasy reported that Frank Martinez is very ill. He is in need of a heart transplant and has been transferred to UCLA. A moment of silence was observed to pray for his recovery.

REPORTS OF SPECIAL AND STANDING COMMITTEES:

Basil Zuniga reported on the newsletter. He was amazed by the number of members who took the time to write articles about Rudy Magana. Next month it is East Bakersfield’s turn to fold the newsletter. Basil would like to take a trip to Paso Robles to interview Forrest Willard who has been retired from the Postal Service for over 41 years. Irene Pasos made a motion to pay Basil 8 hours of LWOP to travel to Paso Robles. Seconded by Pam Mauck and passed. Jeff Harrington reported that he spoke with Mary Magana. She said that the family enjoyed the newsletter and thanked all of those members who attended the services for Rudy. She also wanted to thank the Branch for everything that was done to help her after Rudy’s death.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None

NEW BUSINESS: None

GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: Frank Thomasy discussed the picnic. Anyone interested in being involved this year, let Kim Gerdes know. He also reported that we need to get the Retiree Dinner scheduled this year. Paul Alexander and Paul Zabala will help contact the retirees. Diana Chavez reported that the Form 1187 is not being returned by the new retirees, and reminded those recent retirees that they must submit Form 1187 to remain a member of the NALC. Frank Thomasy discussed the need to increase the amount per mile for mileage reimbursement. It should be increased to the IRS allowable amount. Joe Jones made a motion to increase the mileage reimbursement to the maximum allowed by the IRS effective March 1, 2003. Seconded by Anita Holderman and passed. Mike Towery discussed the route adjustment. Diana Chavez made a motion to send 3 members, which would include the President, Vice-President and one other member, to the Twin Cities Rap Session, Sept. 5, 6 & 7.  Seconded by Jerry Patterson and passed. Mike Towery reported on the meeting with the Postmaster to discuss moving the 93312 carriers Out of Dole Court. Some would go to Minner Station and the others to the GMF. Effective as early as July, a new 93314 zip code will be created. Frank Thomasy discussed the obligations of management regarding staffing. Basil Zuniga asked that anyone willing, would please take pictures in their office. Mike Towery reminded everyone that the supervisor’s permission is required before taking any photos. Diana Chavez reported on the bills regarding Civil Service Retirement.

IMPROVEMENT OF THE ASSOCIATION:

FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S REPORT: Diana Chavez reported that $11,073.70 was collected for March 2003.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Molly Biggar reported:

            Beginning balance                       $35,010.05

            Income                                           $10,336.48

            Interest Income                             $         3.74

            Balance                                         $45,350.27

            Expenses                                      $16,735.17*

            Ending Balance                            $28,615.10

                        *$10,000 to savings account for the State and National Conventions.

The COLCPE drawing was won by Michael Pasos.

The drawing for $500.00 would have been won by Norma Hammer except she was not present.

There were 37 members present.

The meeting adjourned at 8:21 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

KIM GERDES