HR Consultant been there/done that Thu Nov 13, 2008 7:59 AM
In the Fall of 1980 Ronald Reagan wrote a similar letter to the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization ensuring them of his support for air traffic control system and controllers. This letter purportedly was one of several factors that emboldened PATCO to foolishly believe that the Reagan Administration would view a controller strike with sympathy. The rest, as they say, is history. There is no reason to assume that Barack Obama's letter will have similar dramatic consequences. It is a reminder that "there is many a slip between the cup and the lip."
Re: Pre-Election Candidate Letters
ATCS FAA Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:46 AM
Dont' confuse Regan's pre-election sympathy (after PATCO's endorsement) for PATCO's issues with his being able to accept an out-and-out illegal strike. That muddies the waters of this discussion. Ironically, the measure of Obama's intentions may well be played out in how he deals with the current "contract" between the FAA and NATCA.
Look to see who becomes the Secretary of Labor. One name mentioned for that position is Andy Stern, President of SEIU who's membership is made up of a high number of minorities including the huge hispanic block that supported him this time around. If that happens, THAT will be REAL change. Putting someone with REAL labor experience would be different.
We will watch and see
NCFLL, V.P. OFCCP-SOUTHEAST USDOL/OFCCP Thu Nov 13, 2008 8:52 AM
I generally do not agree with Mr. Gilson, but I will reserve my comments on his comments and do the "Watch and See" technique. We've been around this corner before, as a Union, and it's time the administration's that do the promising - just simply do it!! The Clinton Administraton also committed to "Partnership" and we look forward to Obama doing the similiar things "Partnership & Cooperation" by both management and the Union.
Re: We will watch and see
Border Patrol Agent U.S. Border Patrol Mon Nov 17, 2008 12:05 AM
Actually Clinton was not as Labor Friendly as most give him credit for. Which is understandable after Regan, Bush and Bush 2. While he did push for partnership, nothing was binding, he was pretty centered in his appointments and he did not push the labor agenda. Hopefully this next 4 years will be just a little left of Clinton. Not to much though, while I am a big Union guy, I see a big difference between federal and civilian unions. It will just be nice to know there will be some sort of checks and balances system. Bush 2 did away with any oversight and as you can see, everything went so well.
PATCO Comment
Supervisor DVA Thu Nov 13, 2008 8:53 AM
Not trying to hijack the thread, but PATCO brought it upon themselves when they violated labor laws and went out on strike. Reagan gave thm ample time to return to work, and then to the table for issues. They refused and for public safety were asked to go. Most of the PATCO members secured jobs in other agencies, and never lost a dime.
Re: PATCO Comment
DOD Manager and FAA employee during strike Army Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:28 AM
I'm not certain where you got you information that most PATCO members did not lose a dime.
I knew a lot of good people that did not get jobs back.
Re: PATCO Comment
Power System Dispatcher Energy Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:46 AM
"Reagan gave them ample time to return to work"
You obviously were not there and have no clue of the complex psychological and emotional factors that were in play.
"Most of the PATCO members secured jobs in other agencies, and never lost a dime."
Another dubious statement on your part. Please cite your supporting data.
Personally, it was many years before I recovered financially. It wasn't until Spring 1987 that I landed a secure job, managing energy for an investor-owned utility. Fifteen years passed before I returned to federal service in the DOE. I make a comfortable living now, but I lost hundreds of thousands of dollars from the strike, plus I lost the opportunity to retire early under the special ATC retirement.
So please, no more holier-than-thou moralizing on the evils of PATCO. We did the crime and served the time. What more do you want from us?
Re: PATCO Comment
ATCS FAA Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:10 AM
I agree that the controllers were given "ample time" but I also agree that there was a lot of emotion on the part of PATCO's membership. Poli led them down a path of false invincibility.
HOWEVER...There are too many stories around of PATCO controllers being black balled even to the extent that civilian employeers with any government contracts were afraid to upset the apple cart. Many good people suffered for their choices.
ALSO...it has been proved that the FAA used this opportunity to get rid of "undesireables". Specifically, the Chicago Center was found guilty of this tactic. I believe it was proved that they falsified attendance records to show some that returned didn't return in time and were subsequently fired.
Re: PATCO Comment
Prof Small College Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:49 AM
PATCO federal employees engaged in an illegal strike, were order to return to work and refused to return to work. They were properly fired. What is so hard to understand?
Re: PATCO Comment
HR Consultant been there/done that Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:55 AM
Deserved or not, thousands of lives were devasted by the strike. Controllers were given 48 hours to return. In hindsight, if the period had been somewhat longer and strikers could have seen that the system was not going to collapse, more would likely have returned (almost none did.) While managers were glad to see many controllers go, I don't recall any allegations of falsified records.
Re: PATCO Comment
Power System Dispatcher Energy Thu Nov 13, 2008 12:11 PM
"PATCO federal employees engaged in an illegal strike...
They were properly fired. What is so hard to understand?"
And the Reagan Administration engaged in illegal activity during the Iran-Contra affair. The hypocrisy is palpable. Why is this so hard to understand?
Re: PATCO Comment
ATCS FAA Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:17 PM
For HR CONSULTANT:
In the book Silent Skies By Willis J. Nordlund, chapter 8 is titled THE CHICAGO DEBACLE and brings out a lot of the issue in pretty decent detail about the WAR ROOM. I think it is pretty compelling material to demosntrate the fabrication of evidence to support fireings.
Re: PATCO Comment
Former HR Specialist Federal Agency Thu Nov 13, 2008 2:27 PM
Firing the PATCO members had more to do with sending a message than anything connected with their political endorsement. That Summer the Postal Workers were planning to strike and it was easier to replace a few ATCs than it would be to replace all those postal employees. After PATCO, the Postal unions didn't even mention the "S-word."
Re: PATCO Comment
Diversity Manager DOL Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:36 PM
This isn't France where public employees can shut the gov't down. CS have jobs for life all they have to do is show up, asking them to actually do something is a different topic, since that's all that is required its pretty simple to retire comfortably on a gov pension.
I do agree PATCO members payed the price, but black balled hardly, who would want to hire a malcontent they made their bed and got to lie in it
Re: PATCO Comment
Power System Dispatcher Energy Thu Nov 13, 2008 4:50 PM
"who would want to hire a malcontent they made their bed and got to lie in it"
They say living well is the best revenge. Well Mr. Diversity Manager, you, John Q. Public, hired me, back into the Dept. of Energy. And into quite a good job, if I'm allowed to say so. Five+ weeks vacation annually, 6 consecutive days off from work every second week (courtesy of 12-hour shifts), the luxury of choosing between time or money for overtime, the relaxing joy of "out of sight, out of mind" work. Not bad benefits for a job that pays only $170,000 a year...
RESPONSE
Consumer Safety Inspector USDA/FSIS Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:01 AM
I believe that we can not be too critical of the President elect for he is just that and nothing more. We, us Government Workers and the rest of America have to be patient and wait and also keep in mind that our predicuments didn't happen overnight and they won't get fixed overnight. Personally, I believe deep in my heart that President Elect Obama will develop the right people and or team to address all the issues that are previlent.
Letters to Gage
Mister DCMA Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:16 AM
ITS all BS, do you think we all just fell off the turnip truck!
Will Labor really be happy?
Labor Director Fed Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:17 AM
I read about partnerships again and again on Fedsmith.
There is no prohibition against partnerships today. I believe what is being said, is that managers should be politically intimidated into conceding to labor. I have historically had excellent partnerships, but that is not the norm, its the exception.
The constant threats are numbing and have no affect on management. We will do what we need to do to accomplish the mission. Labor just has a hard time accepting that at times.
Re: Will Labor really be happy?
Financial Quality Specialist DoD Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:17 AM
"The constant threats are numbing and have no affect on management. We will do what we need to do to accomplish the mission. Labor just has a hard time accepting that at times."
Uh, well no...........What you will do is what you are directed to do by your NEW agency director. Or, perhaps you will be the one in mamagements crosshairs. Tables have turned, guess that doesn't appeal to you.
Re: Will Labor really be happy?
Labor Director Fed Fri Nov 14, 2008 12:40 PM
Uh, well, seems you don't have a clue. You should be an outstanding union representative....
As to the tables turning, duh.....Chapter 71 hasn't changed since 1978......uh, well........guess there are no tables to turn...hmmmmmm.
Re: Will Labor really be happy?
Border Patrol Agent U.S. Border Patrol Mon Nov 17, 2008 12:13 AM
I haven't seen a Labor Director that even knew what our mission was let alone had the will to accomplish it. They sit in a third party over-watch position and create their own job security by rewriting policies that were already working, inventing new ones that should have never been put in writing and handing down disciplinary action that does not hold up to third party review or more importantly the smell test of the agents in the field. Hopefully your position will go by the wayside and we can start working with the people who do the job again instead of bureaucrats with no more honor than the politicians who hired them.
Reconstruction
Fed Worker & Union Guy DOD Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:28 AM
It's a good starting point, after 8 years of demolition. Maybe a little trust may be restored along the way too!!
Re: Reconstruction
Fed Emp USDA Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:08 AM
Eight years of demolition? I am so sick of hearing that. People need to stay out of the past and look to the future.
Re: Reconstruction
Worker DoD Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:09 PM
I always had trust. Maybe if the unions had been realistic, issues would have turned out better. I'm a mere worker, but I have no support of unions when unrealisitic demands are made.
Growing up in a "union" town, I witnessed over 5,000 jobs disappear because of the unions unrealisitc demands. Devastated families was the only thing left. We are still seeing the effects today.
Re: Reconstruction
Fed Worker & Union Guy DOD Thu Nov 13, 2008 5:34 PM
Worker DoD:
Go to Walmart, for what the world would look like, with no unions!! Or better yet, get a job there!! Case closed!!
Re: Reconstruction
Worker DoD Fri Nov 14, 2008 9:23 AM
Fed Worker & Union Guy DoD,
Nice reply, you make some really good points to convince someone.
Re: Reconstruction
Immigration Officer USCIS Thu Jan 15, 2009 9:08 AM
8 Years of demolition? I started with USDA in 2000 and have worked for the GOV during King George II entire term, and I can tell you that at the facilities I worked we never had it so good. We had money for infrastructure to rebuild, remodel, and renovate what had been laid to waste by Clinton. Employees actually got pay increases every year. Twice under Clinton Wage Grade employees saw pay freeze for at least two years...essentially half the time Bill was chasing tail, we had people stagnating with no pay increase. As for the GS employees, while people in the civil sector were getting 5 to 7% increases per year, they were lucky to get a 1.5 to 2% increase.
Under Bush the lowest I ever received under WG or GS was 2.5%. We had NO A-76 under Bush, and yet twice under Clinton my co-workers had to fight for their jobs.
Who was better for Federal employees again? I am no fan of King George, but he has not been too bad for most of us (NSPS not included, that deal just sucks!)
Telework
A Nobody DOL Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:41 AM
I sure hope the new Labor Secretary gets behind the telework idea. Embracing the advances in information technology and allowing folks to work remotely just makes sense.
Re: Telework
Diversity Manager DOL Sat Nov 15, 2008 8:15 PM
I totally agree. This could be a revenue neutral opportunity. The folks who get to do telecommuting would forgo their locality money. That way paying for the hardware software and internet would be paid for by those using the benefit
NSPS
Program Analyst Headquarters, USMC Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:55 AM
Has the subject of NSPS in DoD been addressed by President Elect Obama? I have seen his comments regarding DHS, and was pleased to see they (DHS) abandoned NSPS. Most in DoD would be extremely happy to see this program, which is demoralizing even to the top performers, disappear with a return to the GS system.
Re: NSPS
PERSEC Army Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:10 AM
I was surprised to see it wasnt brought up here, but yes he has, and he has said he will either do away with it or drastically change it and said he doesnt feel "a system designed to hold employee wages down" is fair.
Re: NSPS
Worker DoD Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:10 PM
"........ doesnt feel "a system designed to hold employee wages down" is fair. "
That's funny coming from a lawyer.
Re: NSPS
Diversity Manager DOL Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:39 PM
but he did say that CS need to be held accountable and wages are an important part. think you'll see PFP gov't wide and that's a good thing
Re: NSPS
Fed Worker & Union Guy DOD Thu Nov 13, 2008 5:36 PM
Worker DoD & Diversity Manager/DOL:
You two must have been honor graduates, of the Donald Rumsfeld Academy of Management Science.
Re: NSPS
UNION ACTIVIST AFGE Fri Nov 14, 2008 6:09 AM
Back in September, AFGE's National President John Gage recieved a letter from Senator Obama telling him that NSPS would be greatly changed if not repealed altogether.
Days later, DOD annouced that they would not move any DOD employees into NSPS that were represented by unions, and that they intend to stop spiraling employees into NSPS. Basically capping the number of DOD employees at 205,000.
DOD continues finalizing its regulations, WHOA, DOD has some 205,000 federal employees in a personnel system without final regulations!
This just goes to show the distain that DOD has had for unions and the employees they represent over the last eight years. What DOD wants, are workers who are an extension of the military. Not employees who seek to feed thier families.
Re: NSPS
Worker DoD Fri Nov 14, 2008 9:30 AM
Fed Worker & Union Guy DOD,
No, didn't go to the school you mentioned, but I did graduate school, unlike you.
UNION ACTIVIST AFGE,
You say "What DOD wants, are workers who are an extension of the military. Not employees who seek to feed thier families." That is an asinine statement. If you want to convince someone of something, don't make statements that are stupid and blatantly untrue; it ruins any credibility you may have.
Re: NSPS
UNION ACTIVIST AFGE Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:08 PM
Worker DOD - I am not aware of any employee working WITHOUT consideration for earning a living (i.e "feeding thier family")
The mentality of DOD management is that mission is first. That's great as long as the checks keep coming.
If you are working just for the "mission", I suggest that you retire or resign and let someone that needs to feed a family work. You could then volunteer in some capacity or work for a contractor who is raping the taxpayer (I'm sure they would be willing to let you work for free or a greatly reduced wage).
I am not dismissing the DOD employee's contribution or committment, but it is dishonest to suggest that the only reason they work for DOD is to accomplish the mission. Any good employee wants to support what thier employer hopes to accomplish or achieve.
They also expect to get paid for it.
The point of the original string was poised around the question if NSPS is an issue of importance to the unions.
Re: NSPS
Fed Peasant DOD Fri Nov 14, 2008 2:44 PM
Worker DoD:
Donald Rumsfeld, with NSPS, wanted to make federal NSPS workers "deployable assets". That means just like the military!! The union activist did indeed know what was being talked about. It's workers like you that made mistakes like NSPS more likely to arrive & more difficult to correct. You are the ones who don't comprehend & are gullible to the point of being self destructive!!....
Re: NSPS
Diversity Manager DOL Sat Nov 15, 2008 8:22 PM
DOD is like any other entity that has to perform, its not a jobcore or hire the incompetent. The taxpayers pay top dollar for the people working for the government and should expect top notched work.
The "union" doesn't pay you salary last time I looked they are green and say US Government. If you want to work for a "Union" than go see if they have any openings. Otherwise bite the bullet work or go home
Re: NSPS
Supervisor DoD Fri Dec 12, 2008 12:15 PM
I didn't vote for Obama, but if he kills NSPS I will support him until hell freezes over.
Re: NSPS
Technician DOD Tue Jan 6, 2009 5:53 PM
As a Recently returned DOD Deployee i can honestly say that the entire Civil Service program needs to be looked at. We have people that obtain a YC-1 Promotins with supervisor responsibilities that makes less than a GS-7 because of Agency Caps . This is saving them money and makling us look like we are too stupid to realize this. Our current DOD agencies deploy thousands of Civil Servants in Harms way with little compensation more than working overtime. Contractor's that make tons of Money hardly have to pay taxes on their huge incomes while we get no tax break at all.. SES positions get all of the pool money first and what is lift over is generously given to the bosses buddies.
At least kiss me when your trying to screw me !!!! I may not like it but at least i know it copming !!!
Democrat vs Republican
Engineer DoD Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:14 AM
A lot of time has been spent criticizing Unions for their support of Democrats over Republicans. If half of what Obama has written about comes true, that is better than supporting a candidate or party that does not support agendas and goals of working men and women of this country.
Re: Democrat vs Republican
Fed Peasant DOD Thu Nov 13, 2008 5:53 PM
Your statement is profoundly true!! The puzzle is why some of the partisan right wingers, at FedSmith, can't see truth, justice, & value. Maybe they enjoy noise, caos, & distractions, as they tune into their favorite radio shows, for further chest pounding inspiration.
Re: Democrat vs Republican
manager doj Thu Nov 13, 2008 7:24 PM
Fed Peasant, it goes both ways. The far left and the far right are both out of touch with most of us and spew ridiculous stuff. There have been more than enough posts from both camps on this website.
The articles themselves are fairly centrist, but the far left will call them right wing since they consider anything that's not in their far left camp right wing.
Re: Democrat vs Republican
Diversity Manager DOL Thu Nov 13, 2008 8:13 PM
That's the free market unlike the socialism and communist rhetoric exposed on NPR and PBS which i have to pay for
Obama,s stand on protecting retireesand CSRS soci
Retired CSRS Employee USDA Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:20 AM
On one of the last days prior to elections, Obama had the 1/2 hour TV show where he talked with the retired man in Ohio who had been promised his retirment and did not get it as per the agreement. Obama was going to correct this type problems.
I retired as CSRS employee who had worked about 20 plus years when FERS was (PUSHED IN ). We as Govt. employees never knew what was happening. I as many stayed CSRS. Then Regan going out of office, signed the windfall act that basically took away the Social security that we were promised when hired. I had close to 40 1/4s payed in prior to retiring and more after retirment from Govt. service for 32 years and 6 years as a Sargent airpoliceman in Washington Air National Guard. When I had retired, I continued to pay into the SS system until I signed up to receive SS payments. Then I find out that I only get just over $200.00 month, not the approx $900 I should. When my wife died, I was not allowed to receive my wife's ss like other spouses.
Re: Obama,s stand on protecting retireesand CSRS soci
CR SSA Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:48 PM
I would go back and recheck your figures on your SSA retirement. The fact that you only get 200.00 dollars out of a possible 900.00 dollars does not sound rt to me. If you were to get 900 dollars based on your wages and taxes paid into ssa the you would be eligible for about half that amount you should have gotten 375 to 450.
Don't forget that WEP was put into place to make SS fair. You are getting what you would have gotten from SS if you only worked under SS, precentage wise. It can get complicated but trust me when I say WEP and GPO only closed a loop hole in our system that was unfair to Social security only employees, it did not unfairly disadvantage you. YOu should visit our web site www.ssa.gov and re read the publication No. 05-10045 and No. 05-10007. Also you could contact a local branch for another explination.
Here we go again...
Civil Servant VA Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:22 AM
I agree that the "wait and see" approach is best. The so-called "partnerships" of the Clinton-era were not partnerships in the true sense of the word, but rather were wholesale sell-outs to organized labor. Agency leaders who incorporated these lofty ideals into their labor agreements, to include the commitment to negotiate over (b)(1) topics, foolishly believed that organized labor would drop their rhetoric and truly work on behalf of their clientele in concert with the agency. Partners envisioned by Clinton are the exception, not the norm. The reality is that agency leaders gave lip-service to the political appointees to seek personal gains, while site union leadership couldn't poor "stuff" from a boot if the instructions were on the heel. John Sturdivant is with the Lord and Bobby Harnage is gone. Partnerships are dead and gone too. Change you can believe in starts with holding managers accountable and losing the unions. Use non-union world class businesses to model reform!
Death To NSPS
supply technician dla Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:28 AM
Goodbye and good riddance to NSPS and its faithfull partners Cronyism,Nepotism and Favoritism.
All you people who went to all the right parties and events,drank and hunted with all the right managers and just generally sucked up are going to be highly diappointed when NSPS is trashed.
A system where pay and bonuses are veiled in secrecy is doomed in this administration.
Re: Death To NSPS
Diversity Manager DOL Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:42 PM
Hello to a new PYP plan Its not going away. The old CS is dead HOOORAY!!!!
Re: Death To NSPS
Immigration Officer USCIS Thu Jan 15, 2009 9:19 AM
"Goodbye and good riddance to NSPS and its faithfull partners Cronyism,Nepotism and Favoritism."
I will beleive that when I see it. It sickens me to no end the amount of nepotism, favoritism, and cronyism I see. And then I can understand those who went "postal" when I hear these same people who benefited from this immoral actions bitching about veterans preference.
The definition of a veteran is a person who at one time wrote a check payable to the people of the United States of America for an amount up to and including their life. For those of you who were too good, too smart, or even just plain to fat and lazy, you get off your duff and put your ass on the line!
Not only is it just compensation for a person who has served their country to be granted preference, it is also THE LAW! Quit hiring your kids, brothers, sisters, etc. and OBEY THE LAW!
Change in Government
Federal Worker USDA Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:28 AM
I will believe it when I see it. Personally, I am so sick of Politian’s and the lies they spew out of their mouth. They say whatever that group of people wants to hear and what do you think he would write to the Union Pres? That he hates Unions and plans to destroy all of them??? Of course not....he is going to write what the Union wants to hear. Also, instead of trying to be so diverse in his picking people in his administration, how about giving the job to the BEST qualified, and not because he has to have a Black, Hispanic, Male, Female, or whoever, just to make sure that he has a diverse cabinet. I personally don’t care if the person is green…if she/he is the BEST qualified then offer them the job! Well good luck with our new President Elect Obama, cuz God knows we are going to need it.
The Muslim-Elect Letters
Purchasing Agent Forest Service Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:49 AM
Those letters are just more hot air. They should start with "once upon a time" or "hey Jack this is no ----!"
Re: The Muslim-Elect Letters
ATCS FAA Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:59 AM
"MUSLIM-ELECT?" In friendly terms...what is your point? Wait...it is head fake up the middle and then run extremely to the right.
It is NONSENSE!
Re: The Muslim-Elect Letters
manager doj Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:19 AM
Don't give us that crap Purch Agent. If you're going to contribute at least give us something worth reading.
P.S. I voted for McCain
Re: The Muslim-Elect Letters
Nameless, Faceless Nobody DOD Thu Nov 13, 2008 2:27 PM
I had a problem voting for Obama that had nothing to do with his color or religion, (YES, I KNOW he is a Christian and it is hype that calls him a Muslim!) His more socialistic politics and that Pelosi, Reid, and Frank will likely get to feed uncontrolled concerned me more.
But, now that he is in, we owe it to the nation to try and make it work. Why deal in hate? It is time to grow up, Purch Agent.
Even if he was Muslim, if he is a good leader then what is the problem?
I am amused at the quandary the more racist among us will have whan having to refer to President Obama!
Re: The Muslim-Elect Letters
IT Specialist USDA Thu Nov 13, 2008 2:32 PM
Oh good grief - grow up already
Your Stripes are showing
Project Manager DoD Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:50 AM
Mr. Gilson, your Pro management and Repubican stripes are being highlited. "Specifically critical of the outgoing addministration and supportive of the audience he's writing for." Becasue these Unions represent a cross Section of Americal, oh by the way, the same cross section voted for Obama, his comment is representative of that same cross section of America. So don't try to make it something that it is not. Thank you very much.
Re: Your Stripes are showing
Worker DoD Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:17 PM
Unions represent the union members.
THAT is hardly a cross-section of America.
The Rule of Law Returns
Civilian Pay Tech GSA Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:55 AM
The laws supporting a clean environment, labor laws enforcing a safe workplace, a well-regulated stock market, pro-family regulations, e.g., FLA etc., all were appropriately legislated and entered into US Statues. Please let us take the moral high road and let these laws work in the way the legislators, representing the people, wanted them to. Enough of circumventing the law either by omission or commission in pursuit of a few short-sighted dollars. Lets try not taking shortcuts these time please. We must respect the law.
Re: The Rule of Law Returns
Diversity Manager DOL Sat Nov 15, 2008 8:36 PM
No most of this isn't laws its some unelected bureaucrat dreaming up nonsense because they can. Never having to meet a payroll or work with onerous regulation they hide behind the bureaucratic wall
President-elect Obama
HR Specialist federal agency Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:35 AM
ATCS
FAA
Give me a break ... if you can't come up with something better than "Muslim Elect", you need to get back to work. Stop being a racist. -- Accept the fact that the President-elect is an African American and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it. So sit back and enjoy the ride. After all, it has to better than the last eight years!!!
Re: President-elect Obama
ATCS FAA Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:22 PM
UM...LOL I think if you read the post I made, I was AGAINST calling Obama a MUSLIM ELECT. I was argueing against Purchasing Agent, Forest Service.
I am a PROUD OBAMA SUPPORTER! Sorry you misunderstood.
Obama's Letter to DoL
Retired manager/ad hoc Labor Relations USPS Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:48 AM
Obama has a unique opportunity with respect to Labor Relations - specifically, the adversarial relationship between most unions and management. While unions and management will have differences of opinion on contratual issues, the underlying perception that both management and unions have towards each other must change if the organization they both represent is to survive intact. It has always amazed me that union leaders seemingly fail to understand that if the organization falls, their membership falls with it.
Obama and the new DoL administration has the chance to works towards encouraging and creating an more collaborative relationship between unions and management that will reduce grievances and focus both groups on seeking out policies that improve the organization and meeting the needs of both groups.
It's time for 20th century labor relations philosophies to be updated to 21st century realities.
Re: Obama's Letter to DoL
Diversity Manager DOL Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:47 PM
I agree it has to start with elimination of the whole jobs for life unaccountable CS. Until that is addressed no meaningful changes can take place.
CS want to return to the days of old but refuse to remember that they are Civil SERVANTS, not Civil unions, and not uncivil servants.
President Elect Obama
Retired government employee Treasury Dept. Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:41 PM
Thanks Obama for informing Americans about your plan regarding changes you will make in government agencies because many agencies really do need improvement.
President-elect Obama
President, AFGE Local 648 Department of Labor Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:39 PM
I look forward to President-elect Obama and his selection of a new Secretary of Labor taking over on January 20, 2009. I am not alone in wishing that the Department of Labor will finally become the model employer for everyone in the US to look to for example.
President-elect Obama has a daunting task to fill all of his appointed positions in all of his cabinet level departments and the other 7,000+/- Schedule C appointees with qualified individuals. I do not envy him. I just hope that the people who get selected to fill these positions remember that they are being put in those positions to serve the citizens of this country to the best of their abilities. They are not being appointed to serve their own personal gains or agendas.
It will take a few months for all of this to shake itself out but I am confident that the President-elect will do a good job.
Re: President-elect Obama
Worker DoD Fri Nov 14, 2008 12:52 PM
I wouldn't get my hopes up. There is going to be plenty of disappointment.
AFGE should be overhauled
Happymanilow@aol.com US Dept of Veteran Affairs Newark RO Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:49 PM
Paying for representation for the AFGE in Newark is a waste of money. The union does not represent the employees and should be completely overhauled
Where's part two of this report?
Mrs. SSA Fri Nov 14, 2008 8:56 AM
Today's a repeat of yesterday's report on P-E Obama's letters; I was looking forward to reading his letter to AFGE. When will it be coming??
Family Medical Leave Act
Health Insurance Specialist CMS Fri Nov 14, 2008 11:31 AM
President Elect Obama states that "it's time we stopped talking about family values and start pursuing policies that truly value families, such as paid family leave, flexible work schedules, and telework,...."
I wholeheartedly agree that the Department of Health and Human Services' should lead by example and allow employees who have to take care of a loved one who is ill, frail/elderly, and disabled should be able to do so without Management's reprimands. Also, these employees who are basically working two full-time jobs should be allowed paid leave as long as it is documented by a physician. It is unfair that HHS employees must use their vacation and sick leave to take off for a family member's funeral, illness and/or pregnancy. We are the only country in the world who does NOT value its citizens. It is particularly ironic when we are the HEALTH and HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT! In addition, we are taking care of our elders at home when Medicare should pay for in-home care!
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
Taxpayer US Society Sat Nov 15, 2008 2:15 AM
You can take off without pay.
I bet you want more paid holidays, a car and maybe even a personal trainer. Get a clue....you are employed so quit the whining because you sound like a free-loader..
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
Diversity Manager DOL Sat Nov 15, 2008 8:40 PM
You have more benefits and time off than any other worker in this country. Yet its never enough its time that you start acting as a RESPONSIBLE adult and stand on your own 2 feet
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
Border Patrol Agent U.S. Border Patrol Mon Nov 17, 2008 12:30 AM
It's people like you who breed people like Mr. Diversity Manager. How much dang leave do you need a year? Tell my agency you are "basically working two jobs" and they will basically fire you for not getting enough rest and unauthorized employment.
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
Supervisor DOA Fri Dec 19, 2008 4:41 PM
Be greatfull you have a good job. By the way if you are so dissatisfied go work at WalMart.
Not that there's anything wrong with that.
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
Analyst DOD Thu Jan 15, 2009 11:29 AM
Health Insurance Specialist CMS
What a whiner, do you think if you were employed in private industry, real world, you would be given all this extra time off? thanks for the input, it's employees like you that make Federal employees all look like whiney greedy people.
Part 2 - absent without leave
Mr. Gone South for the Winter DoD Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:49 PM
Part 2 has some interesting portions that I wanted to find out. Instead I get the read part 1, again.
Re: Part 2 - absent without leave
editor FedSmith.com Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:54 PM
I am not sure what you are referring to when you said "instead I get the read part 1 again." We have not yet published part two and have not set up any links to it as it is not yet on the site so I cannot be sure what you clicked on to make you think you were going to part two of this article.
Social Security GPO
Retired Unit Coordinator Dept. of Veteramn Affairs Mon Nov 17, 2008 8:36 AM
Has President=Elect addressed the issue of Social Security GPO which affects thousands of government retirees whose income is offset by this unfair plan?
WHAT ABOUT DOI
Cartographer DOI Mon Nov 17, 2008 10:16 AM
Most unfair to Minorities
WEP/GOP
Retireed HUD Mon Nov 17, 2008 11:13 AM
As always each Administrations looks to its present employees for promises to improve it's workplace, workpay, etc. About the Retireed Employee who when he left was hit with the slap in the face of WEP/GOP.
When is the UNION going to address this critical unjust reducection in the Retieers monthly annuity.
We too worked diligently and dedicated for the good of our Government. And last but not least our vote counted in putting Barak Obama in the White House.
Thank you
Re: WEP/GOP
Worker Bee #2 DFAS Wed Dec 3, 2008 10:11 AM
When a television series airs a two-part episode, it usually airs on the next scheduled airing of the series. If FedSmith says that this is part one of a two part series of articles, I would expect part two to be the next issue also. Unless otherwise stated.
As I am about to take that leap of faith and retire on January 3rd, it would be nice to know that someone out there is trying to help us. I have watched bills introduced in both houses of Congress for at least the past five years, and they have all died in committee. I have contacted my senators, representative, President-elect Obama, and the house/senate party leaders.
We're not going to get anything done, if we don't make ourselves heard!
Re: WEP/GOP
editor FedSmith.com Wed Dec 3, 2008 10:31 AM
Unfortunately, we are not a major news network with a large staff (or even a small staff--we all work on this project part-time).
The first part of this article was published on November 13th. The second part was published, after it was written, on November 17th. We normally publish the 2nd part of an article the following week and that was done here.
You can easily find both article by looking for articles written under the author's name or, if you prefer, use the search engine at the top of our pages. It is quick as it is only searching the FedSmith site.
TELEWORKING
UR/QM MEDVAMC Thu Nov 20, 2008 1:08 PM
perhaps with the pledged support of the new president, va employees will be afforded the opportunity already enjoyed by so many other federal employees...the opportunity to participate in telecommuting! the federal government started 10 years ago preaching about family values, and all agencies in the federal government are not committed to practicing what they preach. management in the va is apparently so opposed to assisting it's employees survive this horrible economy we are
struggling in, they have, as usual, adopted a "day late, dollar short" policy and completely ignored all the mandates and directives put forth by the feds themselves. va hospitals sit and watch all hospitals around them, jump through hoops, trying to accomodate their employees....va's response is, "we dont do that here, if you dont like it, go someplace where they do". they are loosing valuable employees that can no longer afford to drive distances to commute to work. maybe now, some help! oh yes we can!
BHO letter to Pres.Gage
qas dcma Thu Jan 15, 2009 9:12 AM
For 8 years I listened to the outrageous bellyaching of all the dumocraps about how they thought Bush was a failure WELL now the shoe is on the other foot. The so-called messiah I am sure will be the biggest failure since Jimmy Carter. When he does not deliver on all the "change" he promised, when our taxes go sky high, when all the so called give aways don't come through to those who thought BHO was going to pay your mortage and all the other BS promises made by this cook county crook all do not materialize and the dummies finally hear the "POP" of there head coming out of that dark spot they will realize they should have listened. This letter to Pres. Gage is just another example of "words" "just words" and time will tell that this and all the other promises are BS by BHO and the dumbocrap machine.
Watching the corrections of 2012 will be such a relief and I promise that you won't hear "I TOLD YA SO".
Obama's Labor Policies
Contracting Officer Defense Contract Management Command Fri Jan 16, 2009 11:03 AM
For many federal employees, there has been 8 long years of seeing our rights and self worth erode, attacked, taken away, changed, new systems thrown at us and our labor union's minimized and marginalized, that the mere reading the above article and letter's brings with it a fresh breeze of salvation back from the edge of the cliff. Four more years of the past would have left government agencies with a tattered morass of moraleless and ineffective employee's and system's. The changes that were occuring and the rumor's of the changes coming had us all tremendously concerned about the future of federal labor and the union's which protect us, let alone the future of each and every individual who is now a civilian employee. They are too numerous to mention, but what George Bush, Dick Cheney, and Donald Rumsfield and their replacements had in store for us, President Obama's reign couldn't come soon enough.
Pre-Election Candidate Letters
been there/done that
Thu Nov 13, 2008 7:59 AM
In the Fall of 1980 Ronald Reagan wrote a similar letter to the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization ensuring them of his support for air traffic control system and controllers. This letter purportedly was one of several factors that emboldened PATCO to foolishly believe that the Reagan Administration would view a controller strike with sympathy. The rest, as they say, is history. There is no reason to assume that Barack Obama's letter will have similar dramatic consequences. It is a reminder that "there is many a slip between the cup and the lip."
Re: Pre-Election Candidate Letters
FAA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:46 AM
Look to see who becomes the Secretary of Labor. One name mentioned for that position is Andy Stern, President of SEIU who's membership is made up of a high number of minorities including the huge hispanic block that supported him this time around. If that happens, THAT will be REAL change. Putting someone with REAL labor experience would be different.
We will watch and see
USDOL/OFCCP
Thu Nov 13, 2008 8:52 AM
I generally do not agree with Mr. Gilson, but I will reserve my comments on his comments and do the "Watch and See" technique. We've been around this corner before, as a Union, and it's time the administration's that do the promising - just simply do it!! The Clinton Administraton also committed to "Partnership" and we look forward to Obama doing the similiar things "Partnership & Cooperation" by both management and the Union.
Re: We will watch and see
U.S. Border Patrol
Mon Nov 17, 2008 12:05 AM
PATCO Comment
DVA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 8:53 AM
Not trying to hijack the thread, but PATCO brought it upon themselves when they violated labor laws and went out on strike. Reagan gave thm ample time to return to work, and then to the table for issues. They refused and for public safety were asked to go. Most of the PATCO members secured jobs in other agencies, and never lost a dime.
Re: PATCO Comment
Army
Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:28 AM
I knew a lot of good people that did not get jobs back.
Re: PATCO Comment
Energy
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:46 AM
You obviously were not there and have no clue of the complex psychological and emotional factors that were in play.
"Most of the PATCO members secured jobs in other agencies, and never lost a dime."
Another dubious statement on your part. Please cite your supporting data.
Personally, it was many years before I recovered financially. It wasn't until Spring 1987 that I landed a secure job, managing energy for an investor-owned utility. Fifteen years passed before I returned to federal service in the DOE. I make a comfortable living now, but I lost hundreds of thousands of dollars from the strike, plus I lost the opportunity to retire early under the special ATC retirement.
So please, no more holier-than-thou moralizing on the evils of PATCO. We did the crime and served the time. What more do you want from us?
Re: PATCO Comment
FAA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:10 AM
HOWEVER...There are too many stories around of PATCO controllers being black balled even to the extent that civilian employeers with any government contracts were afraid to upset the apple cart. Many good people suffered for their choices.
ALSO...it has been proved that the FAA used this opportunity to get rid of "undesireables". Specifically, the Chicago Center was found guilty of this tactic. I believe it was proved that they falsified attendance records to show some that returned didn't return in time and were subsequently fired.
Re: PATCO Comment
Small College
Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:49 AM
Re: PATCO Comment
been there/done that
Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:55 AM
Re: PATCO Comment
Energy
Thu Nov 13, 2008 12:11 PM
They were properly fired. What is so hard to understand?"
And the Reagan Administration engaged in illegal activity during the Iran-Contra affair. The hypocrisy is palpable. Why is this so hard to understand?
Re: PATCO Comment
FAA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:17 PM
In the book Silent Skies By Willis J. Nordlund, chapter 8 is titled THE CHICAGO DEBACLE and brings out a lot of the issue in pretty decent detail about the WAR ROOM. I think it is pretty compelling material to demosntrate the fabrication of evidence to support fireings.
Re: PATCO Comment
Federal Agency
Thu Nov 13, 2008 2:27 PM
Re: PATCO Comment
DOL
Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:36 PM
I do agree PATCO members payed the price, but black balled hardly, who would want to hire a malcontent they made their bed and got to lie in it
Re: PATCO Comment
Energy
Thu Nov 13, 2008 4:50 PM
They say living well is the best revenge. Well Mr. Diversity Manager, you, John Q. Public, hired me, back into the Dept. of Energy. And into quite a good job, if I'm allowed to say so. Five+ weeks vacation annually, 6 consecutive days off from work every second week (courtesy of 12-hour shifts), the luxury of choosing between time or money for overtime, the relaxing joy of "out of sight, out of mind" work. Not bad benefits for a job that pays only $170,000 a year...
RESPONSE
USDA/FSIS
Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:01 AM
I believe that we can not be too critical of the President elect for he is just that and nothing more. We, us Government Workers and the rest of America have to be patient and wait and also keep in mind that our predicuments didn't happen overnight and they won't get fixed overnight. Personally, I believe deep in my heart that President Elect Obama will develop the right people and or team to address all the issues that are previlent.
Letters to Gage
DCMA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:16 AM
ITS all BS, do you think we all just fell off the turnip truck!
Will Labor really be happy?
Fed
Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:17 AM
I read about partnerships again and again on Fedsmith.
There is no prohibition against partnerships today. I believe what is being said, is that managers should be politically intimidated into conceding to labor. I have historically had excellent partnerships, but that is not the norm, its the exception.
The constant threats are numbing and have no affect on management. We will do what we need to do to accomplish the mission. Labor just has a hard time accepting that at times.
Re: Will Labor really be happy?
DoD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:17 AM
Uh, well no...........What you will do is what you are directed to do by your NEW agency director. Or, perhaps you will be the one in mamagements crosshairs. Tables have turned, guess that doesn't appeal to you.
Re: Will Labor really be happy?
Fed
Fri Nov 14, 2008 12:40 PM
As to the tables turning, duh.....Chapter 71 hasn't changed since 1978......uh, well........guess there are no tables to turn...hmmmmmm.
Re: Will Labor really be happy?
U.S. Border Patrol
Mon Nov 17, 2008 12:13 AM
Reconstruction
DOD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:28 AM
It's a good starting point, after 8 years of demolition. Maybe a little trust may be restored along the way too!!
Re: Reconstruction
USDA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:08 AM
Re: Reconstruction
DoD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:09 PM
Growing up in a "union" town, I witnessed over 5,000 jobs disappear because of the unions unrealisitc demands. Devastated families was the only thing left. We are still seeing the effects today.
Re: Reconstruction
DOD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 5:34 PM
Go to Walmart, for what the world would look like, with no unions!! Or better yet, get a job there!! Case closed!!
Re: Reconstruction
DoD
Fri Nov 14, 2008 9:23 AM
Nice reply, you make some really good points to convince someone.
Re: Reconstruction
USCIS
Thu Jan 15, 2009 9:08 AM
Under Bush the lowest I ever received under WG or GS was 2.5%. We had NO A-76 under Bush, and yet twice under Clinton my co-workers had to fight for their jobs.
Who was better for Federal employees again? I am no fan of King George, but he has not been too bad for most of us (NSPS not included, that deal just sucks!)
Telework
DOL
Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:41 AM
I sure hope the new Labor Secretary gets behind the telework idea. Embracing the advances in information technology and allowing folks to work remotely just makes sense.
Re: Telework
DOL
Sat Nov 15, 2008 8:15 PM
NSPS
Headquarters, USMC
Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:55 AM
Has the subject of NSPS in DoD been addressed by President Elect Obama? I have seen his comments regarding DHS, and was pleased to see they (DHS) abandoned NSPS. Most in DoD would be extremely happy to see this program, which is demoralizing even to the top performers, disappear with a return to the GS system.
Re: NSPS
Army
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:10 AM
Re: NSPS
DoD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:10 PM
That's funny coming from a lawyer.
Re: NSPS
DOL
Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:39 PM
Re: NSPS
DOD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 5:36 PM
You two must have been honor graduates, of the Donald Rumsfeld Academy of Management Science.
Re: NSPS
AFGE
Fri Nov 14, 2008 6:09 AM
Days later, DOD annouced that they would not move any DOD employees into NSPS that were represented by unions, and that they intend to stop spiraling employees into NSPS. Basically capping the number of DOD employees at 205,000.
DOD continues finalizing its regulations, WHOA, DOD has some 205,000 federal employees in a personnel system without final regulations!
This just goes to show the distain that DOD has had for unions and the employees they represent over the last eight years. What DOD wants, are workers who are an extension of the military. Not employees who seek to feed thier families.
Re: NSPS
DoD
Fri Nov 14, 2008 9:30 AM
No, didn't go to the school you mentioned, but I did graduate school, unlike you.
UNION ACTIVIST AFGE,
You say "What DOD wants, are workers who are an extension of the military. Not employees who seek to feed thier families." That is an asinine statement. If you want to convince someone of something, don't make statements that are stupid and blatantly untrue; it ruins any credibility you may have.
Re: NSPS
AFGE
Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:08 PM
The mentality of DOD management is that mission is first. That's great as long as the checks keep coming.
If you are working just for the "mission", I suggest that you retire or resign and let someone that needs to feed a family work. You could then volunteer in some capacity or work for a contractor who is raping the taxpayer (I'm sure they would be willing to let you work for free or a greatly reduced wage).
I am not dismissing the DOD employee's contribution or committment, but it is dishonest to suggest that the only reason they work for DOD is to accomplish the mission. Any good employee wants to support what thier employer hopes to accomplish or achieve.
They also expect to get paid for it.
The point of the original string was poised around the question if NSPS is an issue of importance to the unions.
Re: NSPS
DOD
Fri Nov 14, 2008 2:44 PM
Donald Rumsfeld, with NSPS, wanted to make federal NSPS workers "deployable assets". That means just like the military!! The union activist did indeed know what was being talked about. It's workers like you that made mistakes like NSPS more likely to arrive & more difficult to correct. You are the ones who don't comprehend & are gullible to the point of being self destructive!!....
Re: NSPS
DOL
Sat Nov 15, 2008 8:22 PM
The "union" doesn't pay you salary last time I looked they are green and say US Government. If you want to work for a "Union" than go see if they have any openings. Otherwise bite the bullet work or go home
Re: NSPS
DoD
Fri Dec 12, 2008 12:15 PM
Re: NSPS
DOD
Tue Jan 6, 2009 5:53 PM
At least kiss me when your trying to screw me !!!! I may not like it but at least i know it copming !!!
Democrat vs Republican
DoD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:14 AM
A lot of time has been spent criticizing Unions for their support of Democrats over Republicans. If half of what Obama has written about comes true, that is better than supporting a candidate or party that does not support agendas and goals of working men and women of this country.
Re: Democrat vs Republican
DOD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 5:53 PM
Re: Democrat vs Republican
doj
Thu Nov 13, 2008 7:24 PM
The articles themselves are fairly centrist, but the far left will call them right wing since they consider anything that's not in their far left camp right wing.
Re: Democrat vs Republican
DOL
Thu Nov 13, 2008 8:13 PM
Obama,s stand on protecting retireesand CSRS soci
USDA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:20 AM
On one of the last days prior to elections, Obama had the 1/2 hour TV show where he talked with the retired man in Ohio who had been promised his retirment and did not get it as per the agreement. Obama was going to correct this type problems.
I retired as CSRS employee who had worked about 20 plus years when FERS was (PUSHED IN ). We as Govt. employees never knew what was happening. I as many stayed CSRS. Then Regan going out of office, signed the windfall act that basically took away the Social security that we were promised when hired. I had close to 40 1/4s payed in prior to retiring and more after retirment from Govt. service for 32 years and 6 years as a Sargent airpoliceman in Washington Air National Guard. When I had retired, I continued to pay into the SS system until I signed up to receive SS payments. Then I find out that I only get just over $200.00 month, not the approx $900 I should. When my wife died, I was not allowed to receive my wife's ss like other spouses.
Re: Obama,s stand on protecting retireesand CSRS soci
SSA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:48 PM
Don't forget that WEP was put into place to make SS fair. You are getting what you would have gotten from SS if you only worked under SS, precentage wise. It can get complicated but trust me when I say WEP and GPO only closed a loop hole in our system that was unfair to Social security only employees, it did not unfairly disadvantage you. YOu should visit our web site www.ssa.gov and re read the publication No. 05-10045 and No. 05-10007. Also you could contact a local branch for another explination.
Here we go again...
VA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:22 AM
I agree that the "wait and see" approach is best. The so-called "partnerships" of the Clinton-era were not partnerships in the true sense of the word, but rather were wholesale sell-outs to organized labor. Agency leaders who incorporated these lofty ideals into their labor agreements, to include the commitment to negotiate over (b)(1) topics, foolishly believed that organized labor would drop their rhetoric and truly work on behalf of their clientele in concert with the agency. Partners envisioned by Clinton are the exception, not the norm. The reality is that agency leaders gave lip-service to the political appointees to seek personal gains, while site union leadership couldn't poor "stuff" from a boot if the instructions were on the heel. John Sturdivant is with the Lord and Bobby Harnage is gone. Partnerships are dead and gone too. Change you can believe in starts with holding managers accountable and losing the unions. Use non-union world class businesses to model reform!
Death To NSPS
dla
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:28 AM
Goodbye and good riddance to NSPS and its faithfull partners Cronyism,Nepotism and Favoritism.
All you people who went to all the right parties and events,drank and hunted with all the right managers and just generally sucked up are going to be highly diappointed when NSPS is trashed.
A system where pay and bonuses are veiled in secrecy is doomed in this administration.
Re: Death To NSPS
DOL
Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:42 PM
Re: Death To NSPS
USCIS
Thu Jan 15, 2009 9:19 AM
I will beleive that when I see it. It sickens me to no end the amount of nepotism, favoritism, and cronyism I see. And then I can understand those who went "postal" when I hear these same people who benefited from this immoral actions bitching about veterans preference.
The definition of a veteran is a person who at one time wrote a check payable to the people of the United States of America for an amount up to and including their life. For those of you who were too good, too smart, or even just plain to fat and lazy, you get off your duff and put your ass on the line!
Not only is it just compensation for a person who has served their country to be granted preference, it is also THE LAW! Quit hiring your kids, brothers, sisters, etc. and OBEY THE LAW!
Change in Government
USDA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:28 AM
I will believe it when I see it. Personally, I am so sick of Politian’s and the lies they spew out of their mouth. They say whatever that group of people wants to hear and what do you think he would write to the Union Pres? That he hates Unions and plans to destroy all of them??? Of course not....he is going to write what the Union wants to hear. Also, instead of trying to be so diverse in his picking people in his administration, how about giving the job to the BEST qualified, and not because he has to have a Black, Hispanic, Male, Female, or whoever, just to make sure that he has a diverse cabinet. I personally don’t care if the person is green…if she/he is the BEST qualified then offer them the job! Well good luck with our new President Elect Obama, cuz God knows we are going to need it.
The Muslim-Elect Letters
Forest Service
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:49 AM
Those letters are just more hot air. They should start with "once upon a time" or "hey Jack this is no ----!"
Re: The Muslim-Elect Letters
FAA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:59 AM
It is NONSENSE!
Re: The Muslim-Elect Letters
doj
Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:19 AM
P.S. I voted for McCain
Re: The Muslim-Elect Letters
DOD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 2:27 PM
But, now that he is in, we owe it to the nation to try and make it work. Why deal in hate? It is time to grow up, Purch Agent.
Even if he was Muslim, if he is a good leader then what is the problem?
I am amused at the quandary the more racist among us will have whan having to refer to President Obama!
Re: The Muslim-Elect Letters
USDA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 2:32 PM
Your Stripes are showing
DoD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:50 AM
Mr. Gilson, your Pro management and Repubican stripes are being highlited. "Specifically critical of the outgoing addministration and supportive of the audience he's writing for." Becasue these Unions represent a cross Section of Americal, oh by the way, the same cross section voted for Obama, his comment is representative of that same cross section of America. So don't try to make it something that it is not. Thank you very much.
Re: Your Stripes are showing
DoD
Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:17 PM
THAT is hardly a cross-section of America.
The Rule of Law Returns
GSA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:55 AM
The laws supporting a clean environment, labor laws enforcing a safe workplace, a well-regulated stock market, pro-family regulations, e.g., FLA etc., all were appropriately legislated and entered into US Statues. Please let us take the moral high road and let these laws work in the way the legislators, representing the people, wanted them to. Enough of circumventing the law either by omission or commission in pursuit of a few short-sighted dollars. Lets try not taking shortcuts these time please. We must respect the law.
Re: The Rule of Law Returns
DOL
Sat Nov 15, 2008 8:36 PM
President-elect Obama
federal agency
Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:35 AM
ATCS
FAA
Give me a break ... if you can't come up with something better than "Muslim Elect", you need to get back to work. Stop being a racist. -- Accept the fact that the President-elect is an African American and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it. So sit back and enjoy the ride. After all, it has to better than the last eight years!!!
Re: President-elect Obama
FAA
Thu Nov 13, 2008 1:22 PM
I am a PROUD OBAMA SUPPORTER! Sorry you misunderstood.
Obama's Letter to DoL
USPS
Thu Nov 13, 2008 11:48 AM
Obama has a unique opportunity with respect to Labor Relations - specifically, the adversarial relationship between most unions and management. While unions and management will have differences of opinion on contratual issues, the underlying perception that both management and unions have towards each other must change if the organization they both represent is to survive intact. It has always amazed me that union leaders seemingly fail to understand that if the organization falls, their membership falls with it.
Obama and the new DoL administration has the chance to works towards encouraging and creating an more collaborative relationship between unions and management that will reduce grievances and focus both groups on seeking out policies that improve the organization and meeting the needs of both groups.
It's time for 20th century labor relations philosophies to be updated to 21st century realities.
Re: Obama's Letter to DoL
DOL
Thu Nov 13, 2008 3:47 PM
CS want to return to the days of old but refuse to remember that they are Civil SERVANTS, not Civil unions, and not uncivil servants.
President Elect Obama
Treasury Dept.
Thu Nov 13, 2008 9:41 PM
Thanks Obama for informing Americans about your plan regarding changes you will make in government agencies because many agencies really do need improvement.
President-elect Obama
Department of Labor
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:39 PM
I look forward to President-elect Obama and his selection of a new Secretary of Labor taking over on January 20, 2009. I am not alone in wishing that the Department of Labor will finally become the model employer for everyone in the US to look to for example.
President-elect Obama has a daunting task to fill all of his appointed positions in all of his cabinet level departments and the other 7,000+/- Schedule C appointees with qualified individuals. I do not envy him. I just hope that the people who get selected to fill these positions remember that they are being put in those positions to serve the citizens of this country to the best of their abilities. They are not being appointed to serve their own personal gains or agendas.
It will take a few months for all of this to shake itself out but I am confident that the President-elect will do a good job.
Re: President-elect Obama
DoD
Fri Nov 14, 2008 12:52 PM
AFGE should be overhauled
US Dept of Veteran Affairs Newark RO
Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:49 PM
Paying for representation for the AFGE in Newark is a waste of money. The union does not represent the employees and should be completely overhauled
Where's part two of this report?
SSA
Fri Nov 14, 2008 8:56 AM
Today's a repeat of yesterday's report on P-E Obama's letters; I was looking forward to reading his letter to AFGE. When will it be coming??
Family Medical Leave Act
CMS
Fri Nov 14, 2008 11:31 AM
President Elect Obama states that "it's time we stopped talking about family values and start pursuing policies that truly value families, such as paid family leave, flexible work schedules, and telework,...."
I wholeheartedly agree that the Department of Health and Human Services' should lead by example and allow employees who have to take care of a loved one who is ill, frail/elderly, and disabled should be able to do so without Management's reprimands. Also, these employees who are basically working two full-time jobs should be allowed paid leave as long as it is documented by a physician. It is unfair that HHS employees must use their vacation and sick leave to take off for a family member's funeral, illness and/or pregnancy. We are the only country in the world who does NOT value its citizens. It is particularly ironic when we are the HEALTH and HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT! In addition, we are taking care of our elders at home when Medicare should pay for in-home care!
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
US Society
Sat Nov 15, 2008 2:15 AM
I bet you want more paid holidays, a car and maybe even a personal trainer. Get a clue....you are employed so quit the whining because you sound like a free-loader..
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
DOL
Sat Nov 15, 2008 8:40 PM
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
U.S. Border Patrol
Mon Nov 17, 2008 12:30 AM
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
DOA
Fri Dec 19, 2008 4:41 PM
Not that there's anything wrong with that.
Re: Family Medical Leave Act
DOD
Thu Jan 15, 2009 11:29 AM
What a whiner, do you think if you were employed in private industry, real world, you would be given all this extra time off? thanks for the input, it's employees like you that make Federal employees all look like whiney greedy people.
Part 2 - absent without leave
DoD
Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:49 PM
Part 2 has some interesting portions that I wanted to find out. Instead I get the read part 1, again.
Re: Part 2 - absent without leave
FedSmith.com
Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:54 PM
Social Security GPO
Dept. of Veteramn Affairs
Mon Nov 17, 2008 8:36 AM
Has President=Elect addressed the issue of Social Security GPO which affects thousands of government retirees whose income is offset by this unfair plan?
WHAT ABOUT DOI
DOI
Mon Nov 17, 2008 10:16 AM
Most unfair to Minorities
WEP/GOP
HUD
Mon Nov 17, 2008 11:13 AM
As always each Administrations looks to its present employees for promises to improve it's workplace, workpay, etc. About the Retireed Employee who when he left was hit with the slap in the face of WEP/GOP.
When is the UNION going to address this critical unjust reducection in the Retieers monthly annuity.
We too worked diligently and dedicated for the good of our Government. And last but not least our vote counted in putting Barak Obama in the White House.
Thank you
Re: WEP/GOP
DFAS
Wed Dec 3, 2008 10:11 AM
As I am about to take that leap of faith and retire on January 3rd, it would be nice to know that someone out there is trying to help us. I have watched bills introduced in both houses of Congress for at least the past five years, and they have all died in committee. I have contacted my senators, representative, President-elect Obama, and the house/senate party leaders.
We're not going to get anything done, if we don't make ourselves heard!
Re: WEP/GOP
FedSmith.com
Wed Dec 3, 2008 10:31 AM
The first part of this article was published on November 13th. The second part was published, after it was written, on November 17th. We normally publish the 2nd part of an article the following week and that was done here.
You can easily find both article by looking for articles written under the author's name or, if you prefer, use the search engine at the top of our pages. It is quick as it is only searching the FedSmith site.
TELEWORKING
MEDVAMC
Thu Nov 20, 2008 1:08 PM
perhaps with the pledged support of the new president, va employees will be afforded the opportunity already enjoyed by so many other federal employees...the opportunity to participate in telecommuting! the federal government started 10 years ago preaching about family values, and all agencies in the federal government are not committed to practicing what they preach. management in the va is apparently so opposed to assisting it's employees survive this horrible economy we are
struggling in, they have, as usual, adopted a "day late, dollar short" policy and completely ignored all the mandates and directives put forth by the feds themselves. va hospitals sit and watch all hospitals around them, jump through hoops, trying to accomodate their employees....va's response is, "we dont do that here, if you dont like it, go someplace where they do". they are loosing valuable employees that can no longer afford to drive distances to commute to work. maybe now, some help! oh yes we can!
BHO letter to Pres.Gage
dcma
Thu Jan 15, 2009 9:12 AM
For 8 years I listened to the outrageous bellyaching of all the dumocraps about how they thought Bush was a failure WELL now the shoe is on the other foot. The so-called messiah I am sure will be the biggest failure since Jimmy Carter. When he does not deliver on all the "change" he promised, when our taxes go sky high, when all the so called give aways don't come through to those who thought BHO was going to pay your mortage and all the other BS promises made by this cook county crook all do not materialize and the dummies finally hear the "POP" of there head coming out of that dark spot they will realize they should have listened. This letter to Pres. Gage is just another example of "words" "just words" and time will tell that this and all the other promises are BS by BHO and the dumbocrap machine.
Watching the corrections of 2012 will be such a relief and I promise that you won't hear "I TOLD YA SO".
Obama's Labor Policies
Defense Contract Management Command
Fri Jan 16, 2009 11:03 AM
For many federal employees, there has been 8 long years of seeing our rights and self worth erode, attacked, taken away, changed, new systems thrown at us and our labor union's minimized and marginalized, that the mere reading the above article and letter's brings with it a fresh breeze of salvation back from the edge of the cliff. Four more years of the past would have left government agencies with a tattered morass of moraleless and ineffective employee's and system's. The changes that were occuring and the rumor's of the changes coming had us all tremendously concerned about the future of federal labor and the union's which protect us, let alone the future of each and every individual who is now a civilian employee. They are too numerous to mention, but what George Bush, Dick Cheney, and Donald Rumsfield and their replacements had in store for us, President Obama's reign couldn't come soon enough.