PORT JERVIS – Two dozen supporters of 53-year United States Postal Service letter carrier Thomas “Tom” Calvario picketed outside Port Jervis’ post office for several hours on Wednesday. They, and others who stopped by or tooted their horns while passing, were there to protest Calvario’s suspension and last week’s pre-termination escort from his job.
Calvario, who grew up in Port Jervis and has worked in the city for decades, received recent notice and an escort from his job for what the post office said was “unsatisfactory work performance.”
Port’s Postmaster Jamie Burns declined to speak about circumstances involving an employee but suggested that Calvario be asked to share information from the letter sent by Burns. Calvario agreed. The letter cites alleged violations of an agreement signed by Calvario on his hire date – in 1970 – in which Calvario agreed to deliver all mail in a timely manner and with provisions of that time.
Fifty-three years later, Calvario claims changes in postal routes and rules have made those provisions nearly impossible to complete on the busiest delivery days. With the biggest route in Port Jervis – 700 possible delivery stops each day – Calvario said it is not the length of his route or his age that has caused any problems, but increased duties without help over recent years. This includes now having to scan and obtain signatures on certified letters and parcels, and increased volumes of third-class mail.
He wants to return to work to continue his service to the public.
“A lot of them are senior citizens and they can’t get out so I bring stamps with me, I sell them stamps,” he said. “You are supposed to be a public servant and I try to do that and it makes the job so rewarding. Thatt’s why I would like to come back.”
Calvario, a 75-year-old Vietnam-era veteran, overcame a bout with prostate cancer last winter. He was out on a six-month medical leave but says he has recovered and is…
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