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SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

 

The duty of the Chapter Service Representative is to be a knowledgeable and fully informed individual regarding the benefits of the various programs offered by NAPUS.  The Chapter Service Rep is usually the key person sought out by the membership for advice and assistance concerning individual matters of members.  He/she should be able to provide the necessary forms and assistance whenever requested.  This information should be disseminated to the membership on a regular basis through their Chapter Publication and y personally giving talks at various County/Area and District meetings.  He/she should set up an information table at Chapter functions throughout the year.  His/her name and phone number should be consistently published in their individual Chapter Publication. 

 

 

I.  TENURE

 

A.  Because of the training time and expense that has been expended by NAPUS, consideration should be given to continuing these individuals in the position of Service Rep. However, if this person is not doing a satisfactory job, or is unable to serve, a new selection must be made.  It is expected that the newly selected individual will have time to devote to the important task and be dedicated to serving fellow Postmasters.  When Chapter Presidents have advance notice of a change in Service Reps, every effort should be made to have the previous Service Rep assist and train the newly appointed individual as soon as possible.

B.  The National Service Rep Co-chairmen, provider representatives and the previous Chapter Service Rep can all contribute toward the necessary assistance in this training process.

 

II.  OFFICIAL DUTIES

 

A.  Have a thorough knowledge of all programs available as well as their functions and benefits.  Know how to sign up members in these various programs.

B.  Maintain a supply of current forms and brochures for all the programs offered by NAPUS.

C.  Contact your Chapter President and Convention Chairman well in advance of your Chapter Convention in order to set up an information table/booth and have the proper facilities to serve members and their families throughout the convention.  Request time to be on the program Monday morning in the convention to explain your programs, goals and availability.

D.  The Service Rep should offer assistance to man the various providersÕ booths at the National Convention.  This experience is invaluable to you as a Service rep in your Chapter.

E.  If the Service Rep is unable to attend the Chapter Convention, he/she should contact a knowledgeable NAPUS Postmaster who will set up the information table/booth and make a presentation to the convention body.

 

III. ASSISTANCE FROM NATIONAL ORGANIZATION

 

A.  Maintain a close liaison with the National Co-Chairmen of Service Reps and provide them with your name, mailing address, office and phone numbers.  Do this as soon as appointed.

B.  Notify NAPUS Headquarters that you have been appointed Service Rep. Provide them with your name, mailing address, office and phone numbers.

 

 

 

 

 

IV.  SUPPLIES

 

A.  Supplies can be obtained by contacting the providers directly.  Call their 1-800 number or send them a written request.

 

 

 

LEGISLATIVE CHAIRMAN

 

Because of our ever-increasing involvement with the Congress of the United States the Legislative Chairman is in a position to help determine the future of not only the Postmasters in his/her Chapter but that of the U.S.P.S. and all Postmasters through the passage or defeat of legislation.  It is therefore imperative that the Legislative Chairman be knowledgeable and dedicated to the legislative process.

 

1.  The Legislative Chairman must be willing and able to contact the legislators from his state.  In addition, a close relationship should be established with the CongressmanÕs Legislative Assistant.  (Do not refer to this person as an Aide.)

2.  He must maintain up-dated knowledge concerning legislation vital to the interests of Postmasters.  Valuable information can be obtained through various publications from the National Office of NAPUS and from the ÒCongressional Record.Ó  A subscription to this may e obtained through the office of your Congressman.

3.  It is extremely important that the Chairman work with the Chapter President to select committee members who personally know the Senator or Congressman from his district.

4.  The Chairman should maintain contact with committee members and the general membership via letters, articles in ÒThe Pennsylvania Register,Ó and at meetings and seminars.  When action is required, he should contact committee members by telephone, who in turn will be instructed to contact their Congressman.  This contact may be made by (a) personal contact, (b) telephone (c) personal letter, (d) personal postcard, or (e) telegram.

5.  The Chairman must work with the President to coordinate the legislative activities for the Chapter at the Legislative Conference in Washington in February.  As many members as possible should be encouraged to attend this conference.  Be sure to include the Retired Postmasters as they have many years experience and can be of assistance in many ways.

6.  The Chapter should provide sufficient funds on an ongoing basis for the legislative effort either directly from the budget or from special projects, such as (a) direct solicitations from the membership, (b) Òfifty-fiftyÓ drawings and raffles at district meetings, (c) auctions at the annual convention, or (d) other special events specifically designated for the legislative fund.

7.  The Legislative Chairman may attend meetings of the Executive Committee as a non-voting member at the request of President.

 

 

LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

 

A.  Introduction

 

     Because of our ever-increasing involvement with the Congress of the United States to achieve the passage or defeat of legislation that can affect the U.S. Postal Service and hence Postmasters, each Chapter must establish a dynamic and viable Legislative Committee.  The President should appoint the chairman, who in turn should select his committee members in compliance with the purpose of the committee.

 

 

 

 

B.  Duties of the Legislative Chairman

   1.  Must be willing and able to contact the legislators from the respective state.

    2.  Must maintain up-dated knowledge concerning legislation vital to the interests of Postmasters.  Sources of information will be provided from the National Office via mailgrams, letters and the Gazette where appropriate.  In addition if he establishes a close relationship with the CongressmanÕs aide-he can be assured of vital and timely information concerning legislation.

     3.  Chairman should select the members of his committee.  The committee will vary in size, depending on the number of legislators Ð (2) Senators and the number of Congressmen Ð which represent that State.  It is extremely important that the chairman select a person who personally knows the Senator or Congressman he will be required to contact.  The committee membersÕ name should produce instant recognition on the part of the Legislator.  This is the key to the success or failure of the StateÕs Legislative Committee.

      4.  The Chairman should maintain contact with committee members and the general membership via letters, articles in the Chapter publication or at meetings and seminars as appropriate.  When action is required, he will contact the committee members via telephone who in turn will be instructed to contact their congressman.

      5.  From time to time it may be necessary to lobby Congress on a specific issue.  The chairman must be prepared to come to Washington, D.C. to join the National Legislative Committee in its efforts.  In addition, he may arrange a legislative activity for his entire chapter that will achieve effective lobbying goals.  For example, this can be a Congressional Breakfast or luncheon, or a meeting honoring several Congressmen.  These types of activities can be held in Washington, D. C. if the chapter is located in proximity to our NationÕs Capital.  Similar functions can be arranged within the respective state, or an ideal time to schedule a luncheon is during chapter officersÕ conference.

      6.  In all the above, the chairman will work in concert with the Chapter President and the Executive Committee.

      7.  He/she will perform any other task delegated by the legislative chairman.

      8.  The Chapter should provide, in its budget, a line item appropriation for the legislative committee adequate to encourage its activities in a dynamic fashion.

      9.  The Chapter should adopt or devise methods to raise money for legislative purposes, on and ongoing basis.  These monies can be used locally and/or from time to time be sent to the National Office to replenish the Legislative Fund.  Activities to be considered are (1) solicitations of membership (2) ÒFifty-fiftyÓ drawings and raffles at district or county meetings (3) Rummage sales or auctions of prizes at State conventions (4) other special events specifically designated for the legislative fund.

    10.  The Annual OfficersÕ Conference is also utilized to develop and foster our legislative aims.  The Legislative Chairman and as many committee members as possible should attend this Conference.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

 

The primary function of the members of the Legislative Committee is to maintain the highest possible degree of contact with their respective legislators.  For this reason, committee members should be selected who personally know the Senator or congressman from his/her district.

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.  To stay informed of legislation in all congressional Bodies, which will affect the USPS, Postmasters, and other Postal Personnel and/or working conditions.

2.  To maintain a close relationship with the Legislator and his/her Legislative Assistant from his/her own district.  (Do not refer to the Assistant as an Aide.)

3.  Be prepared to contact members of the legislature immediately when instructed by the Legislative Chairman.  The chairman will determine whether contact is to be made by (a) personal contact, (b) telephone, (c) personal letter, (d) personal post card, (e) fax or (f) e-mail depending on the urgency of the matter.

4.  Attend local functions in which the Legislator participates whenever possible.  Keep your Legislative Chairman informed of your activities.

5.  Keep other Postmasters informed of pending legislation and urge their participation in legislative activities.

6.  Assist the Legislative Chairman in planning and coordinating any statewide legislative program for the members such as attendance at the annual National Legislative Conference in Washington.  Make every effort to personally attend this conference if at all possible.

 

 

CREDENTIALS

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES:

1.  Committee must attend the chapter convention.

2.  It shall be the responsibility of the credentials committee to certify membership in the Pennsylvania Chapter.

3.  The committee shall supervise and conduct elections at chapter convention.

 

 

MENTORING, TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

THE DEVELOPMENT CHAIRMAN

 

     The duties of the Development Chairman are to provide the opportunity for Career development through career counseling and training seminars.

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

     Coordinates Postmaster development seminars and reports plans for training to the President and executive board.

     Assists Chapter Editor by writing articles on career development for paper.

     Works closely with the 991 Chairman to be sure available help is given in the proper completion of the 991 application form.

     Monitor or evaluate the training needs of their Postmasters.

     Prepares or has available brochures, handouts, video and cassette tapes or any other information that will assist Postmasters in the performance of their duties or upward mobility plans.

    

 

 

     The chairman should work closely with the district and county presidents and assist them in preparing informational programs for their meetings.

     There are many benefits to be gained for Postmasters who have an active chairman such as, encouragement, information, communication skills, and individual help in problem areas.

     The Postal Service has allowed us the use of Convention Leave to attend our State and National Conventions so it is imperative that we provide training seminars and see that our Postmasters register for them and ATTEND.  BE SURE YOUR STATE OFFERS TRAINING SEMINARS!

 

 

CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS COMMITTEE

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.  Solicit input from membership all during the year.

2.  Hold meetings as necessary to consolidate and formulate proposed changes.

3.  When proposing changes, be sure to include all sections affected by the proposed change.

4.  Present proposed changes to members at the annual Chapter convention.  Be prepared to explain why changes are being presented.  Major revisions should be presented in writing to all members.

5.  Furnish a complete copy of Constitution and Bylaws to the Editor within 30 days of the close of the annual Chapter meeting.

 

PARLIAMENTARIAN

 

1.  The Parliamentarian must be thoroughly familiar with Roberts rules of Order in order to assist the President in conducting all official meeting in a professional manner.

2.  The Parliamentarian may also attend Executive Committee meetings as a non-voting member if requested by the President.

 

HISTORIAN

 

1.  It is the duty of the Chapter Historian to maintain an ongoing written history of the Chapter and to serve as custodian of the records and files of the Chapter.

2.  The Historian should prepare articles of interest to the membership for publication in ÒPennsylvania Register.Ó

3.  The Historian may attend Executive Committee meetings as a non-voting member if requested by the President.

 

CHAPLAIN

 

1.  The Chaplain should be prepared to offer an invocation at the annual meeting of the Chapter and at any other meeting as requested by the President.

2.  Remind District Directors to gather information such as newspaper obituaries concerning the death of Postmasters or former Postmasters as they occur.

3.  Collect death notices and information throughout the year in preparation of the Memorial Service to be held at the annual Chapter Convention.

4.  Work with the Memorial Committee to plan and conduct a meaningful Memorial Service in memory of those who have died during the year prior to the annual convention.

5.  The Chaplain may attend Executive Committee meetings as a non-voting member if requested by the President.

 

 

 

 

BUDGET COMMITTEE

 

 

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

     1.  It is the responsibility of this committee to prepare an annual budget for the

          Pennsylvania Chapter of NAPUS.  The Secretary-Treasurer is Chairman of the

          Budget Committee.

     2.  Year to date expenditures and known changes for the coming year should be

          obtained from the Chapter Secretary/Treasurer and Editor.

     3.  The proposed budget is to be submitted to the Executive Committee at the Mid-

          Winter Board Meeting.

     4.  Any proposed budget items that would require changes to the Constitution and

          Bylaws should be submitted as proposals only to the Chairman of the Constitution

          And Bylaws Committee at the same time they are submitted to the President.

     5.  The Chairman or a knowledgeable member of this committee should be available

           to supply additional information to the Executive Committee at the time of their review

           of the proposed budget.

     6.  After the proposed budget is reviewed and accepted by the Executive Committee,

          copies should be prepared for all members present at the annual meeting.

 

 

 

SERGEANT AT ARMS

 

 

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:

      1.  Instruct and schedule committee members for each business session.

      2.  Report to meeting room 15 to 30 minutes prior to start of meeting.

      3.  Check location an operation of light switches.

      4.  Check with hotel staff about location and control of the thermostat.

      5.  Place a chair or chairs near the door for use of committee members on duty.

      6.  Consult with President for any special instructions.  This should be done prior

           to the beginning of the convention and before the first session each day.

      7.  Close doors at beginning of meetings to maintain quiet in the meeting room

      8.  Remain near entrance doors during business sessions.

      9.  Deliver messages to head table as needed.

     10. Assist in passing out literature.

     11. Escort speakers or guests to head table if needed.

     12.  Be attentive and available to assist the President in any way if needed.

     13.  Diligently enforce rules while treating members with dignity and respect.

                 A.  Treat members with respect and dignity.  Be firm, but courteous and

                       diplomatic.  Enforce rules, be very diligent in the performance of

                       duties.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

POSTMASTER REPRESENTATION COMMITTEE

 

     The National association of Postmasters has a standing committee on Postmaster Representation.  It consists of a Chairman and a group of well trained, and geographically spread, members.  They assist Postmasters and Chapters in representing Postmasters.  Individual Chapters should have a Postmaster Representative to assist the needs of the Chapter.

     Upon request it shall be the duty of the Committee on Postmaster Representation to advise, counsel, and assist in resolving official concerns.  They will mobilize to support, the strength, prestige, and effectiveness of the national Association of Postmasters in furthering and protecting the interests of Postmasters.

     Chapter Postmaster Representatives should avail themselves of the experience and knowledge of the National Committee on Postmaster representation.  Promptness and immediate response to the requests for assistance from the Postmaster being confronted with Adverse Actions is of prime importance.  If unable to contact a National Committee Member immediately contact the National Executive Director and assistance will be arranged.

     Part 650 of the Employee Labor Relations Manual provides the guidelines for Postmasters as it relates to personnel actions, grievances and appeals.  This reference should be continually reviewed.  PostmastersÕ rights and appeal procedures are defined in brief form.

     Our NAPUS LEGAL DEFENSE PLAN provides representation to members in adverse actions such as charges of removal, suspensions for more than 14 days, or reductions in pay or grade. 

     Our experience in past cases has given many insights which can prove invaluable in representing Postmasters.  Members of the National Postmaster Representation Committee are available and eager to be of service when called upon.

     Postmaster Representation is one of the most important and valuable functions of the National Association of Postmasters.  It reflects that SERVIE TO POSTMASTERS is our continual goal.

 

 

CONTENT SPECIALISTS

 

     The Career Counselor Committee is a vital part of our future organization, as many of those with whom they work are our active members to come.

     The purpose of the committee is an unbiased, objective review of memberÕs 991 as well as a degree of ÒCareer CounselingÓ, constantly striving to cultivate a desire for upward mobility.  The importance of formal education as well as on the job training, wholesome attitudes, mobility and self-confidence are stressed.

 

 

MEMORIAL COMMITTEE

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:

     1.  Assist the Chaplain in gathering information such as newspaper obituaries concerning

           the death of Postmasters as they occur throughout the year.  Contact the officers of the

           Retired Postmasters for additional names.

     2.  If obituaries are not available, information may usually be obtained by writing to a

          family member.  The Retired Postmasters can usually supply an address for deceased

          Postmasters.

  

  

  

 

  

 

     3.  Plan and conduct a Memorial Service to be held during the annual chapter convention

          in memory of those who have died during the prior year.

     4.  Following are some suggestions for the Memorial Service:

           a.  Each deceased person should be remembered individually with a few remarks.

                 Information may be taken from the obituary notice or from a family member.

           b.  The length of time permitted for the service and the number of deceased members

                will determine how much program to plan.

           c.  Reading scripture, poetry, singing, and the lighting of candles are suggested if

                 time permits.

 

 

 

 

 

 The PM Representative shall represent Postmasters against adverse action.

 The Service Representative will advise all Postmasters of the different services that are available through NAPUS. 

The Parliamentarian will oversee the proper adherence to the Constitution and By-Laws and will follow RobertÕs Rules of Order Newly Revised at the Executive Committee Meeting and Convention.

The Membership Chairperson will inform the members of the current membership.  The Committee will work closely with the Secretary-Treasurer.

The Legislative Chairperson will inform the members of the current legislative issues and concerns.  The Committee will organize and promote the Legislative efforts of the Chapter, and work closely with the PAC Committee.

The PAC Chair shall be responsible for collecting the needed funds for political action.

The duties of the Emergency Relief Chair will be to receive all claims for emergency relief from the Area Directors and decide the proper amount to be given within the fiscal budget.

 

 

 

 

 

 

AUDIT COMMITTEE

 

     The Audit Committee shall be comprised of three (3) District vice-Presidents in accordance with the Fiscal Policy procedure as approved by the Pennsylvania Chapter, NAPUS's executive Committee.  The Committee shall examine and audit all financial records and fiscal reports.  An annual audit of all Chapter funds and accounts shall be made after the end of the year, December 31, and prior to the Annual Executive Committee Meeting.  A certified copy of the audit shall be furnished to the President.  The Committee shall report its findings to the Executive Committee and the report shall be published in the Pennsylvania Register.  This Committee shall also give a report at the Chapter Convention, giving their findings of the previous years audit.