This episode of the CCA Corner podcast features an interview with Emily, a newly converted PTF (previously CCA) from Cincinnati. The discussion focuses on union involvement and the importance of CCAs attending branch meetings.

Emily shares her experience successfully passing a resolution for a "no" vote on the recent tentative agreement (TA) at her branch. She emphasizes that despite personally benefiting from the TA, she voted no due to its inadequate address of CCA issues, particularly the low starting wage. Her branch unanimously supported the no vote and publicized their decision. Emily encourages CCAs to attend meetings, emphasizing the free food and drinks, the opportunity to meet union officers, and the importance of CCA voices in shaping the future of the union.

She highlights the generally welcoming atmosphere of meetings and the need for solidarity and support among CCAs. Morris reiterates the importance of attending meetings, even if seemingly unproductive, to ask questions and hold leadership accountable. He also promotes Building a Fighting NALC and the CLC as avenues for further union involvement. The episode concludes with thanks to Emily and a call for solidarity and self-care.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

This episode of the CCA Corner features an interview with James Henry, the current NALC Vice President and presidential nominee for the CLC ticket in the 2026 election. The discussion centers around Henry's background, the CLC's platform, and their plans to address concerns relevant to City Carrier Assistants (CCAs).

Henry details his extensive union experience, starting as a shop steward and rising through the ranks to National Vice President, emphasizing his commitment to member education and advocacy. He outlines the NALC's structure, from the national president down to the local branch level, and criticizes the current leadership for a lack of accountability and transparency. He also expresses frustration with having his duties reassigned by the current president.

The conversation turns to the CLC's platform, highlighting their focus on transparency, principled contract negotiations, member education, and empowering CCAs. Henry advocates for standardizing training and opportunities across all NALC regions, emphasizing the need for consistent standards and mentorship for CCAs. He addresses concerns about the current lack of transparency within the NALC, promising more open communication and information sharing with the membership.

Henry discusses the CLC's commitment to improving the CCA position, advocating for better wages, working conditions, and career advancement opportunities. He also expresses his long-term goal of abolishing the CCA position altogether in favor of an all-career workforce. Finally, he stresses the importance of solidarity, both within the NALC and with other labor organizations, emphasizing the need for a unified front to advocate for workers' rights. He closes by encouraging CCAs to stay involved and unified, assuring them that the CLC and other NALC activists are fighting for their interests.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

https://concernedlettercarriers.com/

This episode of the CCA Corner podcast features an interview with Gus, an OJI trainer and academy instructor in Boston. Gus emphasizes that new CCAs often overstress about memorizing the case at the academy. Instead, he recommends focusing on learning the process of casing mail efficiently, such as starting with bundled flats, then larger flats, and finally letters. He also highlights the regional variations in postal terminology and encourages new hires to ask questions and not compare themselves to experienced carriers. Gus stresses the importance of taking each delivery one at a time, prioritizing accuracy and safety over speed. He reassures listeners that it's okay to ask questions, even after training, and encourages more experienced carriers to mentor newer colleagues.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

This episode of CCA Corner provides a comprehensive guide for new City Carrier Assistants (CCAs) navigating their first 90 days at the post office. It covers both office and street procedures, emphasizing safety, accuracy, and the importance of union membership, and includes a guest feature from Richie Ray, host of Hot House with Richie Ray.

Office Procedures: We discuss the initial stress of the office environment, dealing with management, and the varying helpfulness of colleagues. It highlights the importance of On-the-Job Instructors (OJIs) as resources.

Street Procedures: We cover details of the three main types of mail delivery:

Park and Loops: Parking the truck and walking a street. Emphasizing proper parking procedures ("curb it, park it, break it, take it"), carrying the satchel correctly, and using dog spray.

Dismounts: Short stops at individual addresses, with similar safety precautions.

Mounted Boxes: Delivering mail from the vehicle, stressing the importance of placing the vehicle in neutral or park at each box.

Some additional tidbits we cover include:

Safety First: Checking the vehicle for safety issues and reporting them is paramount. Carriers have the right to refuse unsafe work.

No Mistake Pace: Prioritize accuracy and safety over speed. Speed will develop with experience.

Forming Good Habits: Establishing proper procedures from day one is crucial for long-term success.

Union Importance: Joining the union is strongly recommended, for protection and advocacy. Stewards are available to answer questions and help with issues.

Schedule Awareness: CCAs should check their schedule daily, as it can change. They are entitled to a minimum number of work hours if scheduled.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

https://fromatoarbitration.com/postal-podcasts/

In this episode, we sit down with Alan Gegax, from Classes of Mail. The interview discusses the treatment of City Carrier Assistants (CCAs), and the perception of CCA treatment from the East Coast. Gegax argues that CCAs are often mistreated by management and that the union does not do enough to protect them. He also discusses the importance of education and empowerment for CCAs. This comprehensive discussion gives a unique perspective toward perception of the CCA position, the union itself, and handbook provisions that receive little attention.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

https://fromatoarbitration.com/postal-podcasts/

In this episode of the CCA Corner, Badmouth and Mallory discuss the recent increase in "safety blitzes" conducted by management. We break down common violations, delve into the M-41 handbook for safe driving procedures, and provide essential tips for staying safe and avoiding disciplinary action.

In this episode:

• Understanding Safety Blitzes: Learn how management is observing carriers and what they're looking for.

• M-41 Mastery: We explore key sections of the M-41 manual, including safe driving practices, vehicle operation, and handling mail.

• Building Good Habits: Develop essential habits for safe and efficient route delivery.

• Weingarten Rights: Understand your rights to union representation during any investigatory interview.

• Staying Safe: Learn how to respond if you feel you're being followed or if you're questioned by management.

Join us as we equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the challenges of being a CCA and thrive on your route.

https://www.nalc.org/member-benefits/benefits-for-members/body/cca-resource-guide/CCA-Resource-Guide-Weingarten-Rights.pdf

https://www.nlrb.gov/about-nlrb/rights-we-protect/your-rights/weingarten-rights

http://mseries.nalc.org/M01667.pdf

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

This introductory episode of CCA Corner features Badmouth Morris advocating for CCA organization and empowerment. He criticizes the current tentative agreement (TA) for neglecting CCAs and calls for their mobilization, particularly in the upcoming election. Morris stresses the importance of education and empowerment, aiming to provide digestible information about rights, union processes, and grievance procedures for newer CCAs. He highlights the need for solidarity between CCAs and regular carriers, emphasizing that change comes from the bottom up and that a unified front is crucial for challenging management and improving working conditions. Morris encourages mentorship and support for CCAs, urging experienced carriers to share knowledge and offer encouragement. Future episodes will address topics like surviving the first 90 days, common grievances, Weingarten rights, and escaping de facto on-call status, with topics crowdsourced from CCAs nationwide.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/