The MSALC is planning an aggressive schedule of classes for its 2002 Off Year Seminar. The topics will cover a diverse range of subject matter, and it is our sincere hope that union leaders across the state will be able to return better equipped to effectively address issues with USPS management and better serve their membership.

There will be a morning session of three classes following a general session with some business items, and there will be two sessions of three classes each following lunch. We will offer the chance for attendees to select their choice of classes in each session on a first come, first serve basis.

Morning Session Classes

• A Minor Adjustment—A class explaining in depth the USPS strategy to use the minor adjustment concept to work in a district-wide route elimination process. What do we need to know to attain fair route adjustments in this environment. Instructors: Tom Musselman and Dennis Lucas
• That’s Sexual Harassment, Dude!—A class instructing us on what sexual harassment is in law and in fact, and how we can work together to rid our workplace of this offensive behavior. Instructor: , USPS Personnel Manger, Detroit District
• EAP for You—A class in understanding our modern, “broad brush” Employee Assistance Program, and how union leadership can play a beneficial role in educating and referring employees to EAP. There will be discussion about the expanding role of committees in EAP. Instructor: Mark Gotschall, EAP Supervisor, Magellan Behavior Health, with Steve Burt reporting on EAP committees

• Contractual Grievances—A class in the investigation and presentation of contractual issues, such as overtime, route adjustment, and other (non-disciplinary) grievances alleging management breach of the contract. Insructors: Joe Golonka and Rick Davidson
• OWCP Advanced Concepts—A class on what to do when a compensation claim is challenged or denied. How to prepare for hearing and other appellate actions. A mock Oral Hearing is planned.
  Instructor: Steve Burt
• Digital Treasurer—A class on how to use your new branch computer to perform financial functions and record keeping, by an instructor who has placed Branch #4374 squarely into the digital age.
  Instructor: Steve Futach

• Discipline Grievances—A class in the investigation and presentation of discipline grievances, reviewing our best defenses to discipline and how to advocate these often-serious cases, as instructed by two experienced arbitration advocates. Instructors: Carl Blassingame Jr. and Pat Carroll
• Retiring first Class—A class in the financial and personal steps needed for our members to make the transition to retirement as enriching and successful as possible. Instructor: Dan Stacho
• Digital Newsletters—A class in how to use your new branch computer for the layout and editing of a quality branch newsletter, with an introduction to the use of digital images and digital photography. You can do this! Instructor: Dave Caszatt

Click here to return to the Michigan State Web Site

---