I went to my station today to donate money for the retirement party of one of my coworkers. While I was there, I went to check on the TE that is covering my route. He is doing great despite the extra stress the Supv. lays on him. My co workers were telling me that the mail after the Memorial Holiday weekend was pretty light, and that they were told that they had to make it back in Eight. As usual,the mail wasn't up on time. But, I was told that many of them met the time requirements. The mail I saw today was pretty heavy. The supervisor was on the PA system barking out that all the mail had to go and everybody had to make it back by 5. Nobody had an idea when the mail would be up (I just tell the supervisor that I don't possess any form of "Linear Perception) I told the TE on my route to fill out the 3996, fill out the time you need to get it all delivered. Add extra time for accountables you receive,blah,blah,blah.
My close friend (who is also my shop steward) gave me a call later in the day told me that he just finished and it was after 5:30PM. He went on to tell me that only eight carriers were back and they had to pivot out ten routes because ten people were out on "slick leave" (we have like 58 + carriers at my station) I just chuckled and said that it sounded like a normal day.
     Management has cut the opportunity for the ODL people to work on their NS day. This is disappointing and has cut a chunk of the income flow. The TE's have cut my stash but I do not hold it personally against them. They have families to care for as well. The extra chedddar would've been nice..
     You hear the rumor mill churning out stuff like USPS might be going to a five day operation and rumors about an early out. Changes in our company are taking place and I feel there are more coming. All I can do is hold my breath and just do the best I can.