Giving Thanks

Giving Thanks
By Jaime Elizondo Jr.
NAPS Southern Region VP

Several years ago, as the new Texas Area vice president, I spoke with the USPS Southwest Area vice president who mentioned it would be nice to receive calls about good news. That made me realize the importance of acknowledging positives in my NAPS role. So, I began thanking someone at every meeting.

Since becoming the Southern Region vice president, I moved away from this approach. It’s time to start again.

To the resident officers:

Thank you for your work. While it may seem you lead a life of luxury, traveling and meeting with executives and officials, your constant problem-solving often goes unnoticed. Remember, even during long airport delays, your efforts are appreciated.

To my fellow regional vice presidents: I appreciate all that you do. Each national convention seems to bring proposals to eliminate our role, but enough members recognize its importance and the USPS acknowledges us. We’ve lost Tommy, but Dee has stepped in to the role.

To the area vice presidents: You are responsible for overseeing numerous branches and managing significant commuting distances. Your role involves frequent travel. I hereby acknowledge the efforts of the four area vice presidents in the Southern Region and duly recognize and thank you for your contributions to the organization.

To the state presidents: You oversee state conventions and keep members updated on recent discipline trends and postal changes. Several individuals, including Aaron (TN), Carson (AL), Smyly (GA), and Hill (MS), among others, have served as state presidents for many years and also serve as local branch presidents. Thank you.

To our members: We appreciate your continued support of NAPS. Your membership is essential to the organization’s ongoing efforts to advocate for fairness, equitable compensation and employment security. We must strongly encourage all EAS employees to become members.

To our branch presidents: You are the backbone of NAPS, leading your branch daily without extra pay. You handle management challenges, represent EAS employees in interviews and dedicate much of your free time to NAPS’ business. We sincerely appreciate your ongoing leadership.

Have you thanked someone today?