Carrier alert — tax refund scams

Tax refund checks will soon be in the mail. Most are legitimate. But Postal Inspectors want to alert employees about a possible scam involving the mail that could affect carrier safety.

Organized gangs have in the past filed fraudulent tax returns using stolen names and Social Security numbers, directing refunds to addresses under their control. Some have resorted to stealing arrow keys from carriers to unlock mailboxes in apartment buildings and mailrooms.

To stay safe, carriers should follow these tips:

• Always comply with a robber’s demands.
• When a suspicious person follows you, go to a safe place and contact police before calling your supervisor.
• If you’re robbed, call 911 when it’s safe to do so. Then call your supervisor, who will call Postal Inspectors.
• Make notes of details you can remember, such as the suspect’s description, direction traveled or vehicles used.

Postal Inspectors should be contacted if a carrier notices large amounts of mail in collection boxes addressed to the IRS. Tax refund checks addressed to names not usually associated with the addresses listed, change of address orders that request forwarding of tax refund checks, or multiple tax refund letters sent to the same location are also signs that something is amiss.

Following these tips, which also are available in a Stand-Up Talk for carriers — can help prevent crime, protect the mail, and protect employees.

Every Door Direct Mail – Retail for Small Businesses Now Even Easier to Use

 

Features New Online Mapping Tool and Credit Card Payment

An online mapping tool and credit card payment are two new enhancements to Every Door Direct Mail – Retail that are making it easier for small businesses to reach the customers who matter most — those in their own neighborhoods.

First launched as a test product in 2011, Every Door Direct Mail – Retail is a simple, affordable service from the U.S. Postal Service that allows local businesses to reach customers without the need for names or addresses. The new online mapping tool facilitates selection of the neighborhoods, cities or ZIP Codes to which the user wishes to market. For added convenience, credit cards are now accepted for both online and Post Office postage payment.

Every Door Direct Mail – Retail also now includes improved search functionality and the ability to create mailings up to 30 days in advance of the mailing date.

“We learned a lot in the last year and a half about how to make the product better, but most of all, we learned just how much the small-business community would use a product that is affordable and easy to use,” said Gary Reblin, vice president, New Products and Innovation. “Local businesses have seen as much as 10, 20 and in some cases, more than 30 percent response rates on their Every Door Direct Mail – Retail campaigns,” said Reblin.

Every Door Direct Mail – Retail can be used with a wide range of formats, from oversized postcards to fliers. It’s ideal for promoting sales and special events or for announcing new businesses to a community. Mailing permits are not required, and at a postage cost of 16 cents per piece, Every Door Direct Mail – Retail is a cost-effective way to place coupons, menus and promotional calendars into the hands of customers and prospective customers.

Every Door Direct Mail – Retail customers can drop off their mailings at their local Post Offices. U.S. Postal Service letter carriers will deliver the mailings to every address along chosen routes.

“Our data show that Every Door Direct Mail – Retail has been a great product to drive repeat business to the Postal Service, and it’s been a great product to drive repeat business to our small-business customers,” said Reblin.

For more information about Every Door Direct Mail – Retail, visit usps.com/everydoordirectmail.
The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Swainsboro GA Post Office hits 20 RCE perfect scores

The staff in the Swainsboro GA Post Office has achieved 100 percent for 20 straight Retail Customer Experience measurements.

The Retail Customer Experience process gives the Postal Service an objective view of our retail locations.

It can be used as a real-time snapshot of a customer interaction. It is not just about the score.

It is even more important that the results drive changes in behavior that will result in improved customer satisfaction and increased retail revenue.

The attributes measured in the Mystery Shopper program should become so commonplace to our everyday performance that if the program were to end tomorrow, it would not change the customer's retail experience in any way.

Mystery shoppers record how long they spent in line, how the retail unit looked, how courteous the retail associates were, and other details about their visit.

Congratulations to the Swainsboro team (in photo)led by Postmaster Jerry Lawson along with Denise Braswell, Irvin Cox and Mickey Flanders.

Callahan, Hillard Post Offices Shine in Retail Customer Experience

Callahan, Hillard employees were recognied by District Manager Charley Miller (left), Postmaster Steve Gray, SSAs Debra West and Rhonda Denmark, Acting Retail Manager Brenda Johstono, MPOO Keith Pierle.  Not pictured is SSA Phyllis Silcox.

The Callahan and Hillard Post Offices have completed their 20th Retail Customer Experience with no issues.

Recently, District Manager Charley Miller visited these offices to congratulate them on their accomplishment.

The Retail Customer Experience gives the Postal Service an objective view of our retail locations.

It can be used as a real-time snapshot of a customer interaction. It is not just about the score.

It is even more important that the results drive changes in behavior that will result in improved customer satisfaction and increased retail revenue.

The attributes measured in the Mystery Shopper program should become so commonplace to our everyday performance that if the program were to end tomorrow, it would not change the customer's retail experience in any way.

Mystery shoppers record how long they spent in line, how the retail unit looked, how courteous the retail associates were, and other details about their visit.

Daylight Saving Time Starts Sunday, March 10

Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 10, 2013 (and ends Sunday, November 3, 2013).

With modern technology, most phones autoset and computers automatically update to sync with the time change.  However, the time change still can be confusing. 

Most people remember the trick to clock changing by the old quote of "spring forward, fall backward," which reminds us to set forward our clocks for Daylight Saving

Time in the spring and set backward for Standard Time in the fall. 

So what is Daylight Saving Time? Its origins go back to Benjamin Franklin who supposedly came  up with the idea. 

The point of setting back the clocks is to give an extra hour of daylight in the afternoon, while having an hour less of daylight in the morning. 

Yet, it was not put into practice across most of the United States until 1967.  And beginning in 2007, Daylight Saving Time was expanded --- Americans now observe Daylight Saving Time from the second Sunday of March until the first Sunday of November. 

Likely few people will move the clock hand, or dial, forward an hour exactly at 2:00 am local time.   But that's when Daylight Saving Time officially begins on Sunday, March 10. 

Ever wonder why we change the clock at 2:00 am?  Visit http://www.webexhibits.org/daylightsaving/.

During the time change, the National Fire Protection Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend that consumers change the battery in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.     

Passport Day in the USA to continue at Post Offices on March 9

Many Post Offices will host special passport days on March 9 to provide passport information to U.S. citizens and to accept passport applications. Here are the locations that will be participating in the North Florida District:

FACILITY NAME                     ADDRESS                            STATE
Aiken Post Office                       307 Laurens St NW               SC
Beaufort Post Office                   501 Charles St                       SC
Branford Post Office                  104 Suwannee Ave Nw           FL
Eglin AFB Post Office                307 W Van Matre Ave             FL
Fleming Island Post Office          1880 East-West Pkwy             FL
Gainesville NW Postal Store       4111 NW 16th Blvd                FL
Glen Saint Mary Post Office       7345 W Mount Vernon St        FL
Gonzalez Main Post Office         1450 Old Chemstrand              FL
Pensacola Navarre Station          1910 Navarre School Rd        FL
Panama City Main Post Office    1336 Sherman Ave                  FL
Pine Mountain Post Office          158 N McDougald Ave           GA

The U.S. Postal Service and many non-Department of State Passport Acceptance Facilities, including post offices, clerks of court, and libraries will celebrate Passport Day in the USA, a national passport acceptance and outreach event.

U.S. citizens must present a valid passport book when entering or re-entering the United States by air.
U.S. citizens entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land borders and sea ports of entry must present a passport book, passport card, or other travel documents approved by the U.S. government. 

Information on the cost and how to apply for a U.S. passport is available at travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens may also obtain passport information by phone, in English and Spanish, by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778.

Due to the budget sequestration, Department of State Passport Agencies will not be participating and will be CLOSED on Saturday, March 9.*

Before Email: Letters from Black America in Jacksonville

As part of the Black History celebration, the Ritz Theatre and Museum along with Director, Emanuel Washington presented a night of history, understanding and love of the art of letter writing. 

The letters were presented in the style of Readers Theatre. “Readers Theatre is an activity in which students or actors, while reading directly from the scripts, are able to tell a story in a most entertaining form, without props, costumes, or sets. Actors are asked not to memorize their lines. 

They are, however, encouraged to “ham it up” and use intonation and gestures appropriate to their characters and their characters’ words.” The actors presented each letter as if they were the writer themselves. The voices, the gestures the play on words, it was all there.  

The actors read letters from W.E.B Dubois (Stamp issued in 1992), Madam CJ Walker (Stamp issued in 1998), Michael Leon, Toni Morrison, Zora Neale Hurston (Stamp issued in 2003), Martin Luther King Jr. (Stamp issued in 1979) and many more. Behind the reader was a picture of the writer or copy of a stamp as issued from the  United States Postal Service.

Mr. Washington gave the Postal Service many accolades for honoring Black Americans on the postage stamp and having such a diverse workforce. 

“This event gave incite to why it is so important for all Americans to continue writing letters to their friends and family. 

The art of writing has to come back. Events like these will help to ensure, we as a people see the value of the written word and use it to our advantage.” Wanda Mckinney, Customer Service Supervisor.

Mr. Washington and his actors were presented a plaque from the Postmaster’s office to add to the black history event. 

This was the first annual event for the group, they plan to make this a tradition.

Claxton Post Office continue to provide excellent service

 
This past holiday season the Claxton Post Office made a connection with the local bakery. Claxton Bakery was shipping with UPS prior to the holiday season, when an employee mentioned the United States Postal Service flat rate and regional rate boxes. 

The bakery took a chance and used the priority option as offered by the USPS to ship their world-famous Fruitcakes.

Will Parker, Office Manager for Claxton Bakery was happy to say that they had a great season of shipping the Fruitcakes, and had very little problems. 

“The Claxton Post Office and Carriers did a great job getting the Fruitcakes where they needed to be!” Says Will Parker, Office Manager for Claxton Bakery. Dale Parker the VP stated that they would save a lot of money by shipping with the regional rate boxes though the Postal Service vs. UPS.

Although the holidays are over the carriers continue to pick up 25-100 packages daily from the Bakery.

“We understand how important service is to not only our customers, but their customers too!” says Postmaster, Rosalie Bolton.

Thanks team!

The Northeast FL PCC continues to do big things

Darnell Babbit, MacPapers and Dan Lawlor,
TC Delivers, Industry-Co Chair

Recently, the NEFLPCC asked Darnell Babbit, Human Resources Manager, for MacPapers to be the keynote speaker. 

The presentation was refreshing to say the least. Ms. Babbit explained the essential elements when dealing with new hires, interviews and communication between employees.

The Northeast FL PCC host a monthly meeting geared toward educating businesses and their employees.

The Postal Customer Council (PCC) is a local and national network of business mailers, mail industry representatives, and USPS representatives, who gather regularly to discuss and resolve local mailing issues, develop content rich education programs, and work continuously to improve communications between the Postal Service™ and mailers by promoting an effective networking platform. 

If you are looking to find ways to improve your knowledge or skills, locate a PCC or visit the Northeast FL PCC’s website: http://www.northeastflpcc.com

USPS social media update

With thousands of fans and friends online, the Postal Service is more social than ever.
USPS is active on a variety of social media sites. Currently, there is a corporate presence on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

USPS Stamps also uses several social media platforms including Facebook and Twitter, as well as Pinterest, Tumblr, Instagram, Google+ and the Stamp of Approval blog.

Careers@USPS on Facebook alerts job seekers to open positions and upcoming career fairs.
The Postal Service is growing its social media influence every day — engaging customers on these platforms to reach them in today’s digital culture.

Customers and employees can find a variety of information and interactive content on social media platforms, with recent outreach during Winter Storm Nemo and the six-day package delivery announcement as examples. In both situations, multiple updates and links to additional information were posted on USPS accounts to provide immediate responses.

Employees can get access to social media on work computers through eAccess if they have a business reason for it, with a manager’s approval. The official USPS social media policy is online at the Postal Service Policy Net website, and includes guidelines for professional use.

Employees are encouraged to visit these sites even if they do not have a work computer or access at work. These sites, as well as Link, are optimized for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.

Dublin GA rural carrier reaches a safe million miles

Dublin, GA rural carrier Eddie Floyd received his million mile award on Feb 1st from MPOO Angela Collier.

The Million Mile Club is the National Safety Council’s highest safety honor among professional drivers and recognizes drivers who have driven more than one million miles or more than 30 years without a preventable accident.

The United States Postal Service and the National Safety Council have teamed up to promote and ensure the safety and health of the USPS workforce nationwide.

As a long-standing member of the National Safety Council, the United States Postal Service has established an agreement with the Council that entitles all facilities to take advantage of member benefits in an effort to prevent unintentional injury and illness.

Eligible postal employee participants of the Safe Driver Award Program include those who have a normal daily assignment that involves the driving of a motor vehicle for official business use, and who have not had their driving privilege revoked or suspended

Pictured is Mr. Floyd and Dublin OIC Chris Mitrisin.

New survey shows most Americans support delivery plan

USPS has released the results of a new survey showing 80 percent of Americans support the new six-day package, five-day mail delivery schedule.

The survey, conducted Feb. 8-11, shows consistently high support for the new schedule among urban, suburban and rural communities, as well as among all age groups and income levels. Support for the schedule rose to 85 percent among all respondents when asked whether they would back the new delivery schedule if it helped stabilize the financial situation of the Postal Service.

Earlier research indicated that nearly seven out of 10 Americans supported the switch to five-day mail delivery as a way for the Postal Service to reduce costs. Maintaining six-day package delivery has increased support for the new delivery schedule, according to the new survey results.

The survey, commissioned for the Postal Service, was completed by Ipsos, a leading independent market research company.

Banking the Sick Leave

Sick leave is a valuable asset to any career employee. When employees are faced with an unforeseen situation, like surgery or an accident, they know their bills and family will continue to be taken care of.  Such is the case with Dwight Raulerson, Rural Carrier for the Sanderson, FL Post Office.

Last July, Dwight fell off a ladder at home and broke both his ankles and both wrist. His recovery has taken months. Because Dwight conserved his sick leave, he is able to be stress free knowing he can take advantage of his sick leave.  

“Dwight did not know he was going be sick or have to use his sick leave, but he knew how important it was to conserve his sick leave. Dwight is currently at home, taking the time to nurture his injuries so he can return to work. That’s the important thing, coming back and being ready. Dwight’s story illustrates the value of banking sick leave!” Michael King – (A)Postmaster, Sanderson, FL

Teaching the Kids

If you teach them when they are young… we have heard that all throughout life and history.

The Jacksonville Beach post office is taking that statement to heart. Recently, the Palms Preschool students visited the Jacksonville Beach location to receive an illustrated tour of “The Post Office”. Acting Supervisor, Cynthia Jones gave the kids a tour of the facility and a postal vehicle, beginning with a visit to the collection box, where all the kids mailed a valentine letter to their parents.

Assistant Director of the Palms Preschool, Cathy Wildes, says “the teachers commented that the trip was very informative and understandable for their age group. It was well run also. They really liked getting to see behind the desk, where the customers were, and of course 2 classes saw the mail truck which just added to the success of the trip!” Best of all, their was great excitement when the valentine cards arrived in their home mailboxes!

“They were so excited and most of the kids paid close attention to what was said. I think it is important to do these types of events. It gives us an opportunity to teach the kids about the processes that are in place for mailing a letter. Hopefully, they will remember when they get older!” (A) Station Manager, Elizabeth Hardy

Retail Customer Experience around the North Florida District

The Keystone Heights team:  (left to right) Frank Geisenberg,
Postmaster Steven Marcus,  Wanda Traver, and Ted Stanley

Ever heard of someone doing a thing perfectly 20 or 25 times in a row? The North Florida District has several offices that have done just that--the Keystone Heights Post Office.  They have completed their 20th Retail Customer Experience with no issues!.

What is the Retail Customer Experience? Well, it gives the Postal Service an objective view of our retail locations. It can be used as a real-time snapshot of a customer interaction. It is not just about the score.

It is even more important that the results drive changes in behavior that will result in improved customer satisfaction and increased retail revenue. The attributes measured in the Mystery Shopper program should become so commonplace to our everyday performance that if the program were to end tomorrow, it would not change the customer's retail experience in any way.

Mystery shoppers record how long they spent in line, how the retail unit looked, how courteous the retail associates were, and other details about their visit. This is a wonderful milestone for this location and the new Postmaster, Steven Marcus is thrilled to be a part of a team that believes so strongly in customer service.

But don't forget the Fleming Island Office in Orange Park, FL - they received their 25th perfect shop!

Fleming Island has set the bar here in the North Florida District, particularly high. Yet several offices are striving for similar success. With dedication, a good smile, and knowledge of the customer needs they are all sure to achieve retail success. A key to their retail success is treating every customer as if they are the Mystery Shopper.

Sealed with love

Today is Valentine’s Day which traditionally is celebrated by sharing elaborate cards, flowers, candy, and other unique gestures of affection with a loved one.

Be sure to show that special person what they mean to you by offering them a token of your appreciation. A few potential gift ideas available from the Postal Service are listed below. There’s still time to choose the perfect gift, so plan ahead and select that keepsake today.

Evans GA customer appreciation week

Evans GA celebrated Customer Appreciation Week for our customers!   The customers were provided with bottled water, cookies, mints and candy.  The retail staff at the Evans office did an outstanding job!  They are all pictured here during our celebrations.

Middle Georgia PCC Makes a Comeback

After the consolidation of the South Georgia and North Florida District, the Middle Georgia Postal Customer Council (PCC), based in Macon GA, had been struggling and all but become a past memory. 

However, with the efforts of Jonathan Godfrey of MailSort Macon, Industry Co-Chairperson of the Middle Georgia Postal Customer Council; Tim Goodwin, Postmaster of Macon GA, and Tammy Jones, Postmaster Secretary, as well as many others working behind the scenes, the Middle Georgia PCC met on January 10 for a PCC business luncheon with many new faces and many old friends.

Jermaine Person, Southern Area Mail Piece Design Analyst provided a presentation on the new Postal rate changes and the new folded self-mailer requirements.

There was also a surprise appearance from Matt Bankston of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) who gave customers an overview of what the OIG and the Postal Inspectors do to protect the mail. 

More than 30 attended the meeting with 25 being customers representing small and large businesses. 

Godfrey, praised everyone for their efforts and looks forward to carrying on the momentum with other meetings and events. 

He said that with the changes occurring in the Postal Service, it is critical for all mailers to be knowledgeably informed in order to make the necessary adjustments to keep their business strong and their customers happy.

Archer Post Office honors veterans, Native Americans

Every year our nation  and the Postal Service celebrate  those men and women that have served this great country. 

While it speaks volumes to acknowledge these dedicated men and women with a thank you,  Archer Postmaster Michael Richardson and staff celebrated  this great day by hosting a Veterans Day Feast and Native American heritage event at the local post office. This is a tradition that began with retired Postmaster,  Jim Waldrap. 

The feast was a great success! Covered dishes were donated by the staff of the Archer Post Office and the very generous customers of Archer. We can’t forget Jordan Glen School  who always sends the lion’s share! The city of Archer supplied tables, chairs and grill for the warming as they do every year.

The Native American veterans honored attendees by handling the roll call of fallen warriors.  This was a very special event for all employees, customers and A very special thank you to all volunteers. 

Rosa Parks Forever Stamp on Sale Nationwide

Second in New Set of Civil Rights Stamps Commemorates Historic

Acts of Freedom, Courage, Equality

DEARBORN, MI — The U.S. Postal Service issued the Rosa Parks Forever Stamp during the National Day of Courage celebration at The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn.

The Rosa Parks Forever Stamp goes on sale at Post Offices nationwide, and can be purchased online at usps.com/stamps or by phone at 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724).

“Rosa Parks was the epitome of courage. Her single act of defiance changed a nation. Today, her legacy lives on for generations as we bestow upon her one of America’s highest honors,” said Deputy Postmaster General Ronald A. Stroman. “Her quiet strength helped to change a nation. Let this stamp be a symbol of her courage and determination. And, let it remind us to never forget the indignities of days gone by — and to never stop fighting for the aspirations of generations yet unborn.”

The National Day of Courage was established to encourage every American to take a stand and commit themselves to do something courageous just as Parks did Dec. 1, 1955, when she refused to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery, AL, city bus. That singular act of courage helped spark the civil rights movement and a new era in the American quest for freedom and equality.

Customers may view the Rosa Parks Forever Stamp and preview other stamps to be issued in 2013 at www.usps.com/stamps and on Facebook at facebook.com/USPSStamps, on Twitter @USPSstamps or on the website Beyond the Perf at beyondtheperf.com/2013-preview. Beyond the Perf is the Postal Service’s online site for information on upcoming stamp subjects, first-day-of-issue events and other philatelic news.

How to Order First-Day-of-Issue Postmark

Customers have 60 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at a local Post Office or by calling 800-782-6724. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in larger envelopes addressed to:

Rosa Parks Stamp
Postmaster
1401 W. Fort Street
Detroit, MI  48233-9998

Rosa Parks Stamp
Postmaster
3800 Greenfield Road
Dearborn, MI  48120-9998

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark. All orders must be postmarked by April 4, 2013.

How to Order First-Day Covers
The Postal Service also offers first-day covers for new stamp issues and Postal Service stationery items post¬marked with the official first-day-of-issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog number and is offered in the quarterly USA Philatelic Catalog, online at usps.com/shop, or by calling 800-782-6724. Customers may request a free catalog by calling 800-782-6724 or writing to:

U.S. Postal Service
Catalog Request
PO Box 219014
Kansas City, MO 64121-9014

What Can You Do? Make the Call

When you hear these words?
Life is not worth living . . .
I have nothing to live for . . .
What’s the use of going on . . .
I might as well end it all . . .

Words matter. These comments may be a way to just vent or they could mean something much more serious. Below are steps that may helpful for you to consider if someone you know makes statements that concern you.

1. LISTEN.
2. Take the comment SERIOUSLY.
3. If possible guide the person to a private location.
4. Say, “Let’s talk about this. I’m concerned about what you said.”
5. Ask for clarification: “What did you mean by that comment?”
6. Stay focused on the issue.
7. If the threat appears imminent, call 911.
8. Offer to assist the person. Say, “I’d like to call the EAP right now.” 
9. Make the call, speak to the EAP, and put the person on the line.
10. In the days after the incident, follow up with the person by asking, “How are you?”

 This may have been a very difficult situation to deal with; consider calling the EAP for your own self care.

Customers can receive their mail — no matter where they are

With the Postal Service’s Premium Forwarding Service (PFS), customers can continue receiving their mail while they’re away from home and living at temporary residences anywhere in the U.S.

Customers can use PFS from 15 days to one year. For a one-time enrollment fee and an additional weekly flat fee, USPS will package and reship a customer’s mail by Priority Mail once each week.

Customers can enroll online at usps.com or at their local Post Offices. Customers who enroll online must also update or pay for PFS online.

A customer applying for PFS at a Post Office must provide two forms of ID and evidence of residence at the primary address listed in the application. A customer who enrolls at a Post Office also must pay for and update the PFS service at the same Post Office.

USPS usually reships bundled PFS mail on Wednesdays. However, Express Mail items are forwarded directly to customers without delay. USPS reroutes separately and at no extra cost First-Class Mail items that don’t fit in a weekly PFS shipment.

Effective Jan. 27, 2013, the enrollment fee for PFS will be $15. The weekly shipment fee will be $17.

Brief History of the Forever Stamp

Forever means for-ever!

 Liberty Bell stamp, first of the Forever stamps, was issued in 2007.

The popular Forever stamp has had a brief history, but in many ways, it’s changed the public’s perception of stamps.

The first Forever stamp, introduced in 2007, was an immediate hit. The success of the format led to the strategy, starting in January 2011, of issuing all domestic First-Class commemoratives as Forever stamps. Of the 20.8 billion stamps sold this year, 84 percent were Forever stamps.

The first Forever stamp featured the iconic Liberty Bell. During its 2007 introduction, then-PMG Jack Potter said, “The Forever stamp is a consumer innovation guaranteed to deliver unprecedented convenience and value to our customers. It’s good forever.”

Potter was right. In 2012, the Cherry Blossom Centennial was the most popular Forever stamp, selling at its height around 700,000 per day and leading to a second printing.

Forever stamps always are sold at the current First-Class, 1-ounce letter rate. Customers can use them to mail a letter weighing no more than 1 ounce regardless of when they were purchased and no matter how prices change.

Soon, USPS will add an international stamp to the Forever inventory. The stamp will go on sale in January.
Forever stamps are available at Post Offices and self-service kiosks nationwide, online at The Postal Store, by phone at 800-STAMP-24 (800-782-6724), or through the USA Philatelic Catalog.

Celebrate 10 Years of Going Red By Wearing Red on Friday, Feb 1

On Friday, February 1, North Florida District, Occupational Health Nurse, Carl Mader is asking all non-uniformed employees to wear red on Friday. Let’s help support a great cause.

Since its inception, the American Heart Association (AHA) has lead efforts in research, prevention and treatment of heart disease, providing knowledge-based solutions for people of all ages. And every year, the AHA works together with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health and other government agencies to compile the most comprehensive and up-to-date statistics on heart disease, stroke and other vascular diseases.

These statistics are used by health researchers, clinicians, healthcare policy makers, media professionals and consumers, serving as a major source for monitoring the cardiovascular health of the wider population. Here are some of the latest findings.

General statistics

• Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, and is more deadly than all forms of cancer combined.
• Heart disease causes 1 in 3 women’s deaths each year, killing approximately one woman every minute.
• An estimated 43 million women in the U.S. are affected by heart disease.
• Ninety percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease.
• Since 1984, more women than men have died each year from heart disease.
• The symptoms of heart disease can be different in women and men, and are often misunderstood.
• While 1 in 31 American women dies from breast cancer each year, 1 in 3 dies of heart disease.
• Only 1 in 5 American women believe that heart disease is her greatest health threat.
• Women comprise only 24 percent of participants in all heart-related studies.

Hispanic women

• Hispanic women are likely to develop heart disease 10 years earlier than Caucasian women.
• Only 1 in 3 Hispanic women are aware that heart disease is their No. 1 killer.
• Only 3 in 10 Hispanic women say they have been informed that they are at a higher risk.
• Only 1 in 4 Hispanic women is aware of treatment options.
• Hispanic women are more likely to take preventive actions for their family when it comes to heart health.

African American women

• Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for African American women.
• Of African American women ages 20 and older, 46.9 percent have cardiovascular disease
• Only 1 in 5 African American women thinks she is personally at risk.
• Nearly 50 percent of African American women are aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack.
• Only 43 percent of African American know that heart disease is their greatest health risk.

These statistics represent only a fraction of the 2012 report featured in Circulation. To view the full findings, download a copy of the Heart Disease and Stroke 2012 Statistical Update.

Building Business with New Products & Services

Changes are coming to requirements for Parcel Select Nonpresort prices.

Currently, mailpieces claiming Parcel Select Nonpresort prices must be part of a mailing of at least 50 Parcel Select pieces, except when postage is paid through a USPS-approved PC Postage system.

Effective Jan. 27, 2013, mailpieces are eligible under any one of the following conditions:

•    When part of a mailing of at least 50 pieces or 50 pounds of mailpieces claiming Parcel Select Nonpresort prices.
•    With no minimum volume when part of a mailing of at least 50 Parcel Select pieces.
•    With no minimum volume when postage is paid through a USPS-approved PC Postage system.
•    With no minimum volume when part of a combined parcel mailing that already meets the minimum volume eligibility standards for each mail class within each applicable mailing program within DMM 705.

The revisions will be incorporated into the January update of the Domestic Mail Manual.

Lake City and Gainesville Post Offices honor veterans, Native Americans

The organizer of the Flags and Feathers Ceremony was Archer FL Rural Carrier, Janet Mitchell-Silverhawk along with Cassandra Mitchell (A/SCS, Lake City, FL) and Teressa Hill (Secretary – Gainesville, FL).

Recently , the Native American Special Emphasis Program Committee held its annual Flags and Feathers Ceremony at the VA Hospital in Lake City, Florida. 

All VA employees and veterans were brought together to honor all veterans and to celebrate Native American Heritage Month.

The Lake City and Gainesville FL Post Offices  had representatives in attendance to speak on the many  Native American subjects on United States postage stamps.

Native American Heritage Month is a celebration of the unique culture of the first Americans and their rich contributions to our society.  

With an unbending respect for the land and all creatures great and small, Native Americans continue to teach us the importance of balance between humans and the natural resources of the earth.

This year’s celebration included a presentation by the Native Nations Museum which included traditional dancing and prayers.  

A large and diverse group gathered for the Flags and Feathers Ceremony with a unified message—honor our veterans who have kept us safe.  Native Americans representing LaKotas, Lumbees, and Metis and African
Americans have but two simple words for the veterans:  Thank you!

Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly Stamps Take Flight Today

A high-resolution image of the stamp is available for
media use only by emailing mark.r.saunders@usps.gov.

PINE MOUNTAIN, GA — Beautiful butterfly stamps begin fluttering across the nation’s mail stream today now that the Postal Service has issued the two-ounce Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly First-Class stamps with the 66 cent 2 ounce rates.

Customers may purchase the stamps at usps.com/stamps, by phone at 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724) and at Post Offices nationwide to prepare for the 1-cent price change that goes into effect Jan. 27.

The new stamp is designed to be used with cards that have an irregular shape and require additional postage. The Butterfly stamp introduced in 2010, when participating greeting card manufacturers began printing a silhouette image of a butterfly on their envelopes so customers would understand that the new butterfly stamp or equivalent postage is required to mail the card.

Nationally acclaimed artist Tom Engeman of Frederick, MD, working under the direction of Derry Noyes of Washington, DC, created the design on a computer using images of preserved butterflies as a starting point. The result is a highly stylized, simplified image of a spicebush swallowtail rather than an exact replica.

Both as caterpillars and butterflies, spicebush swallowtails hide from their predators in plain sight. They do this by mimicking other creatures or their surroundings. The caterpillar later morphs into what looks like a small green snake, with yellow and black markings that resemble a snake's eyes and a false forked tongue. The butterfly’s chrysalis mimics a dried brown leaf, complete with veins.

Customers may view the Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly stamp, as well as many of this year’s other stamps on Facebook at facebook.com/USPSStamps, on Twitter @USPSstamps or on the website Beyond the Perf at beyondtheperf.com/2013-preview. Beyond the Perf is the Postal Service’s online site for information on upcoming stamp subjects, first-day-of-issue events and other philatelic news.

Ordering First-Day-of-Issue Postmarks
Customers have 60 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office, at usps.com/stamps, or by calling 800-STAMP-24. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes to themselves or others, and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

Spicebush Swallowtail (Butterfly) Stamp
158 N. McDougald Ave.
Pine Mountain, GA  31822-9998

After applying the first day of issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark. All orders must be postmarked by March 23, 2013.

Ordering First-Day Covers
The Postal Service also offers first-day covers for new stamp issues and Postal Service stationery items postmarked with the official first-day-of-issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog number and is offered in the quarterly USA Philatelic catalog, online at usps.com/shop or by calling 800-782-6724. Customers may request a free catalog by calling 800-782-6724 or writing to:

U.S. Postal Service
Catalog Request
PO Box 219014
Kansas City, MO  64121-9014

Philatelic Products
There are seven philatelic products available for this stamp issue:

•    115906, Press Sheet with die cuts, $132 (Print Quantity of 2,500).
•    115908, Press Sheet without die cuts, $132 (Print Quantity of 2,500).
•    115910, Keepsake (Pane & Digital Postmark Set), $15.95.
•    115916, First Day Cover, $1.10.
•    115921, Digital Color Postmark, $1.81.
•    115931, Stamp Deck Card, $0.95.
•    115932, Stamp Deck Card with/Digital Color Postmark, $2.16.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Thomson GA employees welcome back co-worker who served in Afghanistan

The staff of the Thomson GA Post Office is proud to have one of their Postal family members, Rural Carrier Associate Willie Sanders, safely home after serving a 10-month term in Afghanistan. 

Willie and his wife Mary were both deployed to Afghanistan.  They stated they met while serving in the military and no doubt they are definitely a perfect match of a couple.

Thomson Postmaster Paula Fuller said, “They are an amazing couple and their attitudes reflect everything we as Americans would want in our military as well as what we look for in our Postal employees.  Willie is a phenomenal employee – always dependable, caring, conscientious, and proficient and Mary is just an added bonus.”

USPS to change rates Jan. 27

The new First-Class Mail Global Forever
stamp will allow customers to mail letters up
to two ounces to Canada and up to one ounce
anywhere else in the world for a set price of $1.10.

The new First-Class Mail Global Forever stamp will allow customers to mail letters up to two ounces to Canada and up to one ounce anywhere else in the world for a set price of $1.10.

Effective Jan. 27, new prices will go into effect for some USPS products and services.

The new prices for First-Class Mail and service pricing include:

• First-Class Mail, one ounce: 46 cents
• First-Class Mail postcard: 33 cents
• Stamped postcards: 37 cents
• Electronic Return Receipt: $1.25.
• Certificate of mailing: $1.20

New domestic retail pricing for Priority Mail Flat Rate products:

• Small box: $5.80
• Medium box: $12.35
• Large box: $16.85
• Large APO/FPO box: $14.85
• Regular envelope: $5.60
• Legal envelope: $5.75
• Padded envelope: $5.95

Other changes include a new offering — a First-Class Mail Global Forever stamp that will allow customers to mail letters up to two ounces to Canada and up to one ounce anywhere else in the world for a set price of $1.10.

Customers can obtain lower prices for Priority Mail and other types of expedited products when purchasing them online.

A complete list of new prices with additional information is available here.

Acting Jacksonville manager publishes his second novel

After the success of his first book, Cocoamo, Jacksonville Acting Manager Customer Service, Greg Norman has begun his second book entitled, I’m Catching Hell. 

Cocoamo, which was released in March 2012, details a young man’s life’s journey and how important it is to stay true to one’s self. 

While Greg enjoys being a Station Manager, he is excited about his career as a writer. “Writing is very therapeutic and it allows me to use my imagination,” says Norman.

This next book, while it is nothing like his first, will certainly keep the attention of his readers, as promised by the writer himself! 

Since beginning his second book, Greg really understands the essence of being a writer.  Greg has been with the Postal Service for almost 20 years.

“Take 3” Actions to Fight the Flu

 Flu is a serious contagious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. CDC urges you to take the following actions to protect yourself and others from influenza (the flu):
    
1. TAKE TIME TO GET A FLU VACCINE.     (FLU VACCINE FINDER)

• CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.
• While there are many different flu viruses, a flu vaccine protects against the three viruses that research suggests will be most common.
• Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine.
• Vaccination of high risk persons is especially important to decrease their risk of severe flu illness.
• People at high risk of serious flu complications include young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and people 65 years and older.
• Vaccination also is important for health care workers, and other people who live with or care for high risk people to keep from spreading flu to high risk people.
• Children younger than 6 months are at high risk of serious flu illness, but are too young to be vaccinated. People who care for them should be vaccinated instead.

    
2. TAKE EVERYDAY PREVENTIVE ACTIONS TO STOP THE SPREAD OF GERMS.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
• See Everyday Preventive Actions and Nonpharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs) for more information about actions, apart from getting vaccinated and taking medicine, that people and communities can take to help slow the spread of illnesses like influenza (flu).

   
3. TAKE FLU ANTIVIRAL DRUGS IF YOUR DOCTOR PRESCRIBES THEM

• If you get the flu, antiviral drugs can treat your illness. 
• Antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics. They are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) and are not available over-the-counter. 
• Antiviral drugs can make illness milder and shorten the time you are sick. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For people with high risk factors, treatment with an antiviral drug can mean the difference between having a milder illness versus a very serious illness that could result in a hospital stay. 
• Studies show that flu antiviral drugs work best for treatment when they are started within 2 days of getting sick, but starting them later can still be helpful, especially if the sick person has a high-risk health or is very sick from the flu. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking this drug. 
• Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people also may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.

Jacksonville employee praised by customer for extra effort

 
Postal Employees do more than just deliver the mail and sort packages or sale a stamp. They look out for their communities, co-workers and customers.

This is the case for Jacqueline Slatter, Supervisor Customer Service at the Baymeadows office. This past holiday, Jacqueline had the opportunity to assist a customer with a very important piece of holiday mail. Our customer mailed holiday gifts to her son here in Jacksonville, FL. This is the first Christmas she and her son have been apart. 

Unfortunately, only one package arrived during the estimated delivery period. The customer contacted the Baymeadows office and was assisted by Jacqueline.  Ms. Slatter was able to use her training from the Customer Contact Concierge (CCC) program to better assist with completing all necessary actions for locating this package.

Thankfully, the customer had purchased a delivery confirmation which allowed Jacqueline to better search for the item and she was able to locate the package and it was delivered on Christmas Eve.

The customer was so impressed with the service she received that she was compelled to write a letter to a local news magazine. “We come to work every day prepared to assist a customer or employee, your day only gets better when you feel as though you have achieved what you set out to do!”, says Jacqueline.

Here is an excerpt from the customers message published on Jacksonville.com:

I’m from Chesapeake, Va., and this is the first year my son and I have been separated for Christmas. I sent his Christmas gifts through the mail, but the main one didn’t make it. I called the post office there in Jacksonville, and a woman named Jacqueline tracked it all the way to California and got it to my son [on] Christmas Eve. I just wanted to say I know the U.S. Postal Service gets a bad rap sometimes, but this woman went out of her way to help me. She was absolutely wonderful, and I just think this was a great thing. Maybe if you print this somewhere, she’ll see it and know that she was very much appreciated.

Rincon GA Postmaster delivers Polar Express Mail

Santa Claus recently asked Rincon GA Postmaster Larry Billeiter to show up at Blandford Elementary School in Rincon to deliver a package from the North Pole to Jennifer Rahn's kindergarten class. 

The students were having a Polar Express Day and the package contained jingle bells like the one from the movie. 

Billeiter said "The bells had been placed in the freezer so they would be cold when I delivered the package."

Savannah P&DC honored for best 3-day performance

The Savannah P&DC recently celebrated its designation as Best Service Performance for 3Day for fiscal year 2012 in the North Florida District.

Great job by the Savannah team (left to right): SDO Allan Grippe, SDO Heather Pennyfeatherm, Plant Manager Lisa A. Syse, SDO Ardis Pickett, and A/SDO David Popp.

Postal Service issues Emancipation Proclamation stamp

 
The Postal Service honors the Emancipation Proclamation on the 150th anniversary of its signing by President Lincoln with a limited edition Forever Stamp.

USPS dedicated the stamp Jan. 1 at the National Archives in Washington, DC, which houses the historic document.

“Stamps often tap into our culture and help us remember the events and people who have had an impact on American history,” said DPMG Ron Stroman. “The Emancipation Proclamation was a powerful symbol of President Lincoln’s determination to end the war, to end slavery and to reconstruct the economy of the country without slave labor.”

The stamp is first in a series of three civil rights stamps to be released in 2013. The remaining stamps will feature Rosa Parks and the March on Washington.

The Emancipation Proclamation Forever stamp goes on sale Jan. 2 at Post Offices nationwide, and can be purchased online at www.usps.com/stampsor by phone at 800-Stamp24.

Santa and Mrs. Claus helped By Evans GA Post Office

 

Santa and Mrs. Claus needed help this year, so they visited the Evans GA Post Office.

SSA Gloria Williams assisted them with their mailings.