JAX Plant honors employees' service

The Jacksonville Processing and Distribution Center recently honored employees who have reached significant service anniversaries.

Senior Plant Manager Art Rosenberg presented each employee with a special plaque to recognize their service to the Postal Service.

Those honored included:

Tractor Trailer Operator David Brown 35 years; Electronic Technician Dick Rohmer 35 years; Data Collection Technician Liz Champion 30 years; Operation Support Specialist Cindy Miller--30 years; General Expeditor Myron Moment 30 years; Mail Processing Clerk Judith Buggs 25 years; Mail Processing Clerk Cynthia Flynn 25 years; General Expeditor Roslyne Jones 25 years, Mail Processing Clerk Anita Landman 25 years; Mail Processing Clerk David Martin 25 years; Mail Processing Clerk Doug Tamayo 25 years; and, Mail Handler Vance Thomas 25 years;

Also recognized was Mail Handler Mark McKee 35 years .

USPS recognizes career employees with service award pins at the 30, 35, 40 and 45 years of creditable government service. 

These awards are not to be taken lightly as many of our employees retire or leave military service prior to beginning work with the USPS.    

All of the employees recognized have built their careers in different areas, yet they have demonstrated their abilities to remain committed.  

Anita Landman

Cindy Miller

Doug Tamayo

 

Judith Buggs

Liz Champion

Vance Thomas

Customer thanks USPS for finding his package

There is nothing more frustrating to the Postal Service and its customers when a package doesn't arrive at its destination.

Each package is important to the sending and receiving party as well as to our future as an organization.

The satisfaction of a package found recently made the day for Senior Operations Support Specialist Lisa Syse at the Jacksonville NDC.

"The customer from St. Croix called me looking for a package that contained priceless items and pictures. I obtained the tracking information and there were no subsequent scans on the piece and the last scan was at our facility (Jax NDC). Several weeks had passed and he had not received the package. I forwarded him an Mail Recovery Center (MRC) form 50 to complete and forwarded the information to the MRC via email," said Syse.

She followed up with the customer on his inquiry and assisted him in beginning the process to search for his missing items.

"I was elated to receive the following email response that he had received the priceless items he was searching for," Syse said.

Hello again Lisa,

I just wanted to take a moment to let you know that through your concern and helpful actions the Postal Service found my lost package and sent it on to me here in St. Croix, completely un-damaged and in good condition.

I can't begin to tell you how grateful I am for your help Lisa. Because of you, and the great people of the USPS, some priceless (to me) items that my kids and grandkids have given me are now safely and soundly back in my possession.

Thank you so much again!

Sincerely,
Mike Trostle

Jacksonville GMF reaches 10 perfect RCE scores

The retail team at the Jacksonville General Mail Facility recently achieve their 10th perfect Retail Customer Experience in a row.

The team pictured below includes from left to right: Acting Manager Customer Operations Bill Spangler; Acting Officer in Charge Jacksonville, Debra Gornik; Sales and Service Distribution Associates Tanya Putmon, Pam Young, Sharon Jones, Erlinda Ruelos, Anthony Hamilton, Angela Cuffy, Vernon Lott, Glorius Rivers, and Khaquita Douglas, Supervisor Customer Service Wanda McKinney; and Marketing Manager Lucious Sumlar.

RCE 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.

Cochran GA Post Office hits five perfect RCE scores

Sales and Service Clerk Tim Mullis

The Cochran GA Post Office was honored recently for achieving its fifth Retail Customer Experience (RCE) perfect score in a row.

Cochran Postmaster Joe Molewski says "I wish I had a secret to share with you, but I have been fortunate in that my entire team is very engaged and very conscientious.  They are all eager to perform their job well and do what is best for the Postal Service and for the customer every transaction."

Molewski's team includes SSAs Tim Mullis, Joan Wallace and Melissa Colemen, and Custodian Ricky Smith.

"They all go out of their way to ensure that all customers are satisfied with their shopping experience with the Post Office, which includes carrying packages to customers' cars when needed, looking up addresses and zip codes, and ensuring that all mail finds the correct home," Molewski said.  "They are true professionals."

RCE 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.

Tallahassee Plant finds and returns Blakely GA customer's missed deposit

It was not a great Friday evening for Blakely, GA customer Azzie Williams when she realized she had accidently dropped a bank envelope with five $100 bills in the collection mail the day before.

According to Blakely Postmaster Wendy Powell, "Ms. Williams placed her bank envelope in her purse with her letters to mail on Thursday.  She discovered her mistake on Friday evening and mentioned it to her daughter." 

Ms. Williams daughter then contacted the Blakely Post Office where Powell sprung into action.

After interviewing the customer, Powell contacted Manager Processing and Distribution Linda Mungin in the Tallahassee Processing and Distribution Center who organized a search .

Tallahassee Mailhandler Johnny Fillmore  found the envelope and  it was returned to the Blakely Post Office.

"Ms. Williams said she didn’t know if she should cry or scream and gave me a very appreciative hug," said Powell.  "It has definitely made for a good week."
 

Customer Azzie Williams and Postmaster Wendy Powell

 

Mailhandler Johnny Fillmore

Columbus City Carrier is sales lead superstar

 

Columbus, GA City Carrier Gary Wilbourn is a Superstar when it comes to the Customer Connect program.

He has generated multiple customer connect leads that resulted in sales of over two million dollars.

Gary is constantly looking for ways to generate revenue and says it is easy to sell our products and generate a lead.

Shipping Solutions Specialist Dean Burke has high praise for Gary.

"I wish we had more carriers that were as involved with generating quality leads and generating much needed revenue for the Postal Service," said Burke  "Gary is truly a heads and shoulder carrier above the rest of his peers when it comes to generating quality leads."

Burke also hinted that he and Gary are also working on three additional leads that will generate approximately $1.2 million in new revenue for the Postal Service before the end of the year.

Happy trails to longtime Valdosta rural carrier

The Valdosta Postal family recently bid goodbye to Rural Carrier Patricia Lester, 83, who retired after more than 37 years with the Postal Service.

Mrs. Lester spent 33 of those years on Rural Route 3 which covered 91 miles each day.

Pictured are (left to right): Rural Carrier Helen Shuman, Acting Northside Station Manager Leon Williams, Mrs. Lester, Acting Delivery Supervisor Billy Thomas and Mrs. Lester's grandson.

Three Georgia Post Offices reach 10th perfect score

Three Georgia Post Office were honored recently for achieving their 10th Retail Customer Experience (RCE) perfect score in a row.

The Americus, Fort Valley and Valdosta GA offices each achieved success with hard work and good customer service.

RCE 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.

 Americus GA customer team

Fort Valley GA customer team

Valdosta GA customer team

Two more GFA District million milers honored

Two more Gulf Atlantic District letter carriers have been recognized for their long-standing safe driving records.

William Merritt has worked in the Lizella GA Post Office for the past 30 years. He started in May 28, 1983, as an RCA for five years and then continued for 25 years as a letter carrier.  That's 30 years on the same route. Pictured with Merritt is Postmaster Dion Corbin.

Panama City Letter Carrier Darryl Partee was recently honored by his peers for becoming a million mile club member.

Panama City FL Northside Manager Chris Cox said, "This is a very significant achievement whereby Darryl demonstrated his commitment to safety awareness. He kept his personal safety as well as his customers in mind every day he delivered his route."

Partee is pictured (left to right) with Panama City Officer-in-Charge Steve Seagraves, Partee, and Panama City Northside Manager Chris Cox.

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, USPS 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.

Employees celebrate service anniversaries

Recently, the Gulf Atlantic District recognized several employees who celebrated significant service anniversaries.

Panama City Carrier Andrew Perrin reached a significant milestone of 30 years of service.

Andrew attributed his longevity to his faith and the positive relationship he has with his coworkers.

Pictured left to right: Panama City Downtown manager Eugene Green, City Carrier Andrew Perrin, and Acting Panama City Postmaster Steve Seagraves.

Complaints & Inquiry Clerk Valerie Rodgers in Consumer Affairs celebrated her 30-year service anniversary with Manager Consumer & Industry Contact Tony Joy (left) and Marketing Manager Louis Sumlar.

Gainesville Mail Processing Clerk Rose Gaglio received her 25-year service award. Employees pictured (left to right): Manager Post Office operations Ron Farnsworth, Charlie Morris, Rose Gaglio, Roberto Farias and Tracey Jackson. 

USPS recognizes career employees with service award pins at the 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years of creditable government service. 

These awards are not to be taken lightly as many of our employees retire or leave military service prior to beginning work with the USPS.    

All of the employees recognized have built their careers in different areas, yet they have demonstrated their abilities to remain committed.  

Crawfordville FL customer praises local Postal employee service

(reprinted from the Tallahassee Democrat)

Too often, when my husband and I leave a store, we talk about the lack of good, let alone great, customer service.

An exception is the U.S. Postal Service, which gets such a bad rap.

Here in Crawfordville, our regular carrier, Gail, cares enough to ask us where to put boxes that don't fit in the mailbox to keep them dry--unlike other services that leave them out in the elements or makes us do a treasure hunt when we can't find deliveries.

Then there's the staff at the South Adams Street Post Office, who always please.

Friday, I need a complicated delivery service.  First, Gregg came bounding out to take a call, he turned me over to Kristian and then to the counter to Deborah, who with great humor helped me--and found low-cost options.

Friday's visit was late afternoon, toward the end of their long day of helping lines of people, and I left with a smile on my face and an appreciation for their outstanding customer service.

Thanks to these local folks who seem to understand that the way they treat their customers, and neighbors, makes their jobs more pleasant and keeps their clientele happy, and coming back.

Jesse McKenzie
Crawfordville FL

Dry Branch GA Post Office honored for Passport services

 

The U.S. State Department has presented a Certificate of Achievement to the Dry Branch GA Post Office for in recogntion of receiving a perfect score during their visit from the Acceptance Facility Oversight Program in their annual audit.

The certificate cited the accomplishment as a credit to Postmaster Mary Brokenburr for her knowledge of passport acceptance policieis, procedures and vigilance in practicing information security which demonstrates the highest commitment ot the Passport Acceptance Program.

The recognition is based on a site visit, one-on-one interview, inspection of facility space/security features, as well as real-time observations of the Postmaster accepting and executing passport applications from customers.

Post Office Operations Manager Angela Collier presented the certificate and praised Postmaster Brokenburr for her stellar performance.

Macon's Pio Nono station achieves 10th straight perfect RCE score

The Macon's Pio Nono Station recently was honored for achieving their 10th RCE perfect score in a row.

The award was presented to Postmaster Tim Goodwin, lead sales and service associate (SSA) Steve Bannister, SSA Tammy Fuller, and presentor Lucious Sumlar, Manager of Marketing for the Gulf Atlantic District.  Pio Nono Team Members not pictured are: SSA Nixon, SSA and end Macon SCS Nancy Clark. 

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.

Postmaster Goodwin attributes Pio Nono's success to: "Our SSAs and Lead SSAs are motivated, knowledgeable and take great pride in their operations and serving our customers.  SCS Nancy Clark has been the Supervisor over our four Finance Stations for several years and has fostered an environment of teamwork and excellence in RCE throughout her offices."

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.

Dublin GA Post Office acheives five perfect RCE scores in a row

The Dublin GA Post Office recently was honored for five perfect scores in a row in the Retail Customer Experience (RCE) process.

Congratulations to Sales and Services Associates Sophia Jordan, Lee Holt, Angie Coleman and Sheree Branch-Smith.  Picture with the award is Supervisor Customer Service Jarrett Hilliard.

RCE 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.

Augusta area carriers honored for safe million driving miles

Augusta GA Postmaster Paul Steele (center in first photo) recently presented Million Mile Awards to carriers Steven Delenio and Thomas Brewster from the Forest Hills Post Office and carriers Ernie Hammonds and Mark Swain from the Martinez GA Post Office (second photo).

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.

New Postmasters are named in Georgia

Post Office Operations Manager Angela Collier recently announced four new Postmasters to positions in Georgia.

The new Midland, GA Postmaster is Cindy Lowrey. Cindy formerly worked in the Albany Post Office and was the Postmaster of Bronwood, GA. She also served as an Acting Supervisor Customer Service in Americus, GA and Officer-In-Charge in Dawson, GA.

The new Monticello, GA Postmaster Greg Gordon. Greg is a former Supervisor Customer Service  in Warner Robins, GA. He most recently was the Officer-In-Charge  of Forsyth, GA which has achieved 20+ 100% in Retail Customer Experience measurements.

Martha Simmons is the new Postmaster of Warm Springs, GA. Martha was previously the Postmaster Relief for Pine Mountain Valley. She has held Officer-In-Charge assignments in Pine Mountain Valley, Junction City and Warm Springs.   

The new Bonaire Postmaster is Fritz Artis. Fritz was previously the Postmaster of Gray, GA.

Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation stamp unveiled

USPS recently unveiled this year’s Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp June 28. The new stamp features the image of a common goldeneye duck.

Over the years, these stamps have raised millions of dollars for wetlands conservation. The first Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation stamp was issued in 1934.

Since then, stamp sales have raised more than $851 million which has been used to preserve 5.3 million acres of wetlands.

Popular with hunters and wildlife enthusiasts, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in association with USPS, each year issues the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, also referred to as the Federal Duck Stamp.

Hunters 16 years of age or older must purchase the stamp to hunt migratory waterfowl. The stamp also provides admission to National Wildlife Refuges for bird watchers and other visitors.

Proceeds from the stamp support the conservation of America’s wetlands. A Junior Duck Stamp is available to support conservation education programs.

Expedited passport services can speed travel documents to customers

Customers who need new passports sooner than the usual 4-6 weeks needed for normal processing can submit expedited passport applications to USPS Passport Acceptance Facilities around the country.

First-time passports, passport renewals, additional visa pages, and data corrections all qualify for expedited service. Applicants must pay an additional $60 fee and allow 2-3 weeks for delivery.

Applicants with urgent travel plans also may apply directly at one of the U.S. Department of State’s 26 passport agencies and centers across the country. Refer to the Department of State’s website for agency-specific information on what is required for an appointment.

Applicants must call the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 877-487-2778 to make an appointment.

Individuals who need passport information should first visit the Department of State’s official website for information on passport requirements, online applications, fees and processing times. This information also is available by calling the NPIC at 877-487-2778 or TDD/TTY at 888-874-7793.

Mail Service Updates site now USPS Service Alerts

Mail Service Updates on usps.com now has a new look and a new name — USPS Service Alerts.

The name change reflects current industry practices by more accurately reflecting the near real-time information USPS communicates to its customers about postal facility service disruptions due to weather-related and other natural disasters or events. The Web page has been organized to provide consumers and business mailers more complete, timely information.

Following disasters and events that affect the mail, such as recent tornadoes in Oklahoma, customers and employees have regularly turned to the Mail Service Updates page for service information.

“Feedback from residential customers and business mailers following natural disasters like Hurricane Sandy prompted us to take a close look at Mail Service Updates,” said Consumer Advocate Krista Finazzo. “We wanted to find ways to more effectively communicate with our customers during service interruptions.”

Other improvements include a new section for residential customers who now can learn whether their mail is being delivered or if their Post Offices are open.

The upgraded page also will provide commercial mailers with more detailed information on the operating status of mail processing facilities and delivery units, allowing them to better plan drop shipments and other operational activities.

U.S. Postal Service Reduces Consumable Waste Recycling programs save millions in landfill fees

World Environment Day, a program sponsored by the United Nations, is the most widely celebrated global day for environmental awareness. This year’s theme — sustainable consumption — focuses on reducing waste and sustaining resources.

USPS reduces its waste by diverting tons of consumables from landfills each year. Through recycling programs and initiatives, the Postal Service last year recycled more than 186,000 tons of mixed paper, 35,000 tons of cardboard, 6,000 tons of plastic and 21,000 tons of other consumables, according to the Annual Sustainability Report.

Along with reducing waste, these programs also save money. By reducing landfill use, the Postal Service saved more than $25 million in fees and generated $23.8 million in recycling revenue in 2012.

The Postal Service has won numerous environmental honors, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WasteWise Partner of the Year award in 2010 and 2011, and most recently 10 Federal Green Challenge Awards nationwide.

For more information about the Postal Service’s sustainability initiatives, including the Go Green Forever stamps, visit usps.com/green and the Postal Store.

USPS named top government agency for multicultural business opportunities

USPS has been recognized as the top government agency for providing business opportunities to women- and minority-owned companies.

More than 1.3 million diversity business owners participated in an online election sponsored by DiversityBusiness.com to determine the top 25 organizations.

The owners were asked 10 questions about diversity business in the marketplace.

Their answers were based on factors such as volume, consistency and quality business opportunities granted to diverse companies.

Stakeholder Outreach and Sustainability team leader Janice Williams-Hopkins said USPS is honored to be named the top government agency for multicultural business opportunities. “This award exemplifies the Postal Service’s commitment to build and maintain mutually beneficial business relationships with multicultural suppliers,” she said.

Click here to view DiversityBusiness.com’s list of top organizations for multicultural business opportunities.

Don’t be fooled by spam messages

Spam email and phishing, the practice of using fake but realistic-looking websites to fool victims into revealing personal information, can pose threats to USPS and its employees and customers.

Here are some tips to handle these electronic threats:

•    Trust your instincts. If an email seems suspicious, delete it without opening it.
•    Delete spam or phishing messages without opening them.
•    Don’t forward these messages.
•    Be careful when subscribing to mailing lists on the Internet.
•    Don’t reply to spam or phishing emails, even if it’s to request being removed from the originator’s distribution list. Replying can result in more messages.
•    Don’t click on the unsubscribe URL in an email if you didn’t subscribe to the originator’s distribution list. This lets the sender know your email address is valid.
•    Never click on a “pop-up“ window.

First to last mile: USPS technology expanding to an address near everyone

The Postal Service’s unparalleled capacity to pick up and deliver mail and packages at every address in America has long been one of its defining attributes.

Now, as USPS folds new technologies into its delivery network, it’s applying this strength in new ways to benefit everyone. “Our goal is to embrace technology and enhance the value of mail and packages for mail owners, mail providers and consumers — from the first to the last mile,” said Chief Information Officer Ellis Burgoyne.

Underlying the Postal Service’s embrace of technology is the Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb), capable of capturing more robust information than previous technologies as mail or packages progress through the mailstream. With the IMb, mailers can eliminate paperwork as their mail or packages enter the network, link tracking information into a constant data stream with scanning, and predict with more certainty when letters and parcels will reach their destinations.

With IMb technology, USPS has improved the speed and efficiency of mail processing; eInduction, for example, verifies business mail has been accepted at the right facility and confirms the correct postage has been paid. Similarly, The Passive Adaptive Scanning System delivers tracking improvements and revenue protection at high-volume delivery units.

Technology also creates efficiencies in last-mile delivery operations. Dynamic routing and real-time delivery scans result in improved deliveries, better response to last-minute pick-up requests, and expansion of service options.

North Florida District renamed Gulf Atlantic District

The North Florida District becomes the Gulf Atlantic District on June 29 to more accurately describe its territory which merged with the South Georgia District two years ago. 

A renamed Gulf Atlantic District encompasses a large portion of northern Florida, south and central Georgia, and a small portion of western South Carolina.

The Florida portion of the district has been known as the North Florida District for more than 20 years, but the name did not accurately reflect the district’s expanded geographical area.

Gulf Atlantic fits the territory as the Gulf Coastal plain encompasses portions of Georgia and Florida while the Atlantic Coastal name covers portions of South Carolina, southeastern Georgia and northeastern Florida.

The district includes these major cities: in Florida—Gainesville, Jacksonville, Panama City, Pensacola and Tallahassee; and in Georgia—Albany, Augusta, Columbus, Macon and Savannah.

The district includes ZIP Codes beginning with the following first three digits: Florida--320, 322, 323, 324, 325, 326 and 344; Georgia—304, 308, 309, 310, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319 and 398; and  298 in South Carolina.

North Florida District holds congressional briefing

This year’s 2013 Congressional briefing was held at the North Florida District Office on Tuesday, June 18. 

Representatives from Senator Marco Rubio, Congresswoman Corrine Brown and Congressman Ander Crenshaw attended in person. 

Representatives from Senator Lindsey Graham, Congressman Jeff Miller, Congressman John Barrow, Congressman Paul Broun, Congressman Steve Southerland and Congressman Austin Scott attended via a Meeting Place webinar. 

Government Relations Specialist Lambros Kapoulas shared the state of the Postal Service from his Washington, DC office. 

District Manager Charley Miller provided Postal Service initiatives and accomplishments including being a top twenty performing district in overall year-to-date Customer Experience Measurement scores in Residential and Small/Medium Business. 

In a letter thanking those in attendance, Miller stated, “It is important to ensure Congressional Members are aware of our commitment to providing the best possible service despite the rapidly changing business world environment.”

Pictured left to right front: From Marco Rubio’s office - Mary Dudley Lee and Ashley Cook, from Corrine Brown’s office – Carolyn Chatman, from Ander Crenshaw’s office – Claire Dalo, from Corrine Brown’s office – Jackie Gray.  From left to right back: Marketing Manager Lucious Sumlar, Finance Manager Jim Dale, Human Resources Manager Sylvia Morris, Jax NDC Manager Dave McClelland, Postal Inspection Service Team Lead Jack Cowen, Manager Operations Programs Support Frank Stephens, Lead Plant Manager Art Rosenberg, District Manager Charley Miller, Consumer & Industry Contact Manager Tony Joy and Jax Postmaster Steve Hardin.

Perry GA achieves RCE perfection

 Pictured from L-R are Sales and Services Associates Mike Graham,
Saundra Whitcher, Charles Hill and Postmaster Larry Dykes.

Congratulations to the Perry, Georgia Post Office for achieving five perfect RCE shops in a row. 

Postmaster Larry Dykes said, “My TEAM is focused on customer satisfaction; they go the extra mile to insure our retail operation is the best it can be.”

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.

Archer FL Post Office hosts Flags of our Fallen Warriors

The Archer FL Post Office hosted its Annual Flags of our Fallen Warriors event May 26, the day before the federal observance of Memorial Day at the old Archer fire station one block south of the Archer Post Office.
The Native Nation Museum set the scene with flags representing every branch of our military, the American flag as well as the MIA flag representing our missing in action soldiers.

Former Postmaster James H.Waldrop assigned Rural Carrier Janet Mitchell-Silverhawk the task of keeping the Post Office a vital part of the community which led to this annual event and is carried on with the support of current Postmaster Michael A.Richardson.

The event was kicked off by emcee Frank Silverhawk who welcomed two special elder veterans of World War II -- Stephen Lawrence, a Tuskegee Airman , and Bob Gaushe, an Iwo Jima survivor.

Curious children and solemn adults contemplated the significance of the day as they remembered their own family members, now gone after serving in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.
 

As the ceremony began it was explained that the “burning of the flag” was the only proper was to dispose of a flag retired from its purpose.

The ceremony became more moving as Native Americans escorted the many veterans present to carry a flag to its final resting place.

Jacksonville Post Offices, stations achieving Business Connect goal

Congratulations to Postmaster Steve Hardin’s Team for reaching their Business Connect target goal of 24 activities for Fiscal Year 2013.

Leading the way are the Atlantic Beach and Monument stations with 31 business activities year-to-date.  Murray Hill Station is close behind with 30 acitivites for the time period.

Business Connect is one of the Employee Engagement Programs specifically for Postmasters, Stations/Branches Managers and Supervisors to prompt discussion with customers about USPS products and services.

The program is designed to engage Postmasters in generating revenue and strengthening customer relations.

Key employees for the program in the photo are (left to right):Acting  Manager Customer Service Operations (MCSO) Bill Spangler, Supervisor Customer Service Ron Render, Sales & Service Associate (SSA) Marilyn Fears, Sales & Service Distribution Associate Tabitha Herring, Postmaster Stephen Hardin, SSA Renee Hill,  and MCSO Paul Birge.

Postal employees participate in Jacksonville school vehicle fair

The North Florida District Vehicle Maintenance group recently attended a vehicle fair at Hogan Springs Glen Elementary School in Jacksonville which attended by about 300 students.

The fair included vehicles that serve the local community including fire, police and rescue trucks and cars.  A special treat was the landing of the local rescue helicopter which landed at the fair.

"Students asked questions about why the steering wheel was on the right side of the truck and how far the postal truck travels," said Supervisor Vehicle Supplies Tory Negron.  "The children enjoyed the activity books that were provided by the Postal Service so they could color in the stamps celebrating our 50 states."

This is the second year for the VMF to participate in this event and at the World of Nations celebration in downtown Jacksonville.

Negron was assisted at the vehicle fair by Auto Technician Dan Camacho.

USPS issues policy for medications found loose, damaged in the mail

USPS now is using the following procedures for the handling of medications found damaged or loose in the mail:

•    Loose in the mail medications. Never attempt matching loose medications with their packaging. Send all loose medications to the Atlanta Mail Recovery Center where they will be handled using procedures that protect consumer privacy.

•    Damaged mail containing medications. Damaged mail, where the contents have been potentially compromised, will either be disposed of or returned to sender based on mail class and ancillary service endorsements.

•    Damaged Merchandise Return Service (MRS) packages containing medications. MRS is used to mail medications that have expired or are no longer needed by the customer. These pieces should be delivered, even when damaged, to the destination address on the preprinted MRS label.

To protect customer safety and privacy, employees should verify the destination addresses of all packages containing medications at their delivery points to make sure each delivery is accurate.
For all mailpieces containing medications, employees also must perform the appropriate barcode scans to provide tracking and visibility for customers.

Letter carriers and customers vulnerable to dog bites

 
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), nearly 5,900 letter carriers were attacked by dogs in 2012. More than 4.7 million Americans annually are bitten by dogs — half of whom are children.
To help carriers avoid dog attacks, USPS offers the following tips:

• Observe the area. Take a quick glance at common places a dog may be. Check underneath parked cars, hedges or porches.
• Don’t startle a dog. If it’s asleep, make a non-startling noise, such as soft whistling. Call its name if you know it. Do this before you are close to the dog, while you still have time and space for an escape.
• Never reach out and pet a dog.
• Never assume a dog won’t bite. Familiarity with a dog is no guarantee it won’t bite.
• Protect yourself; don’t assume it’s friendly today because it has been in the past.
• Keep your eyes on dogs. They are more likely to bite when you’re not looking.
• Stand your ground. If a dog comes toward you, turn and face it. Hold something in front of you if available and back slowly away.
• Never turn and run.
• Have at least one full can of dog repellent spray with you.
• Use warning letters as needed to let owners know there’s a possibility of mail delivery suspension if their dogs aren’t restrained.

Augusta Main Post Office celebrates retirements

Pictured are:  Postmaster, Paul Steele; Bill Graham, Joseph Wade, Sheila Nelson, and Acting Manager, James Lloyd.

 The Augusta Main Post Office celebrated the retirement of three employees on 5/17/2013. 

Sheila Nelson, Supervisor, Customer Service retired with more than 34 years of service. 

City Carrier Bill Graham retired with 25 years of service and City Carrier, Joseph Wade, retired with 22 years of service.

Georgia communities met food drive challenge

The U.S. Postal Service and the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) conducted the nation’s largest single-day food drive on Saturday, May 11.

Communities all across the North Florida District participated in this annual event which provides food to local food banks and pantries that rely heavily on donations.

With more than 50 million Americans living at risk of hunger, food banks across the country continue to experience record demand for emergency food assistance.

Local letter carriers along with nation’s 175,000 letter carriers collected food donations left at the mailboxes of generous Americans in more than 10,000 communities and delivered them to food banks and other hunger relief organizations, such as pantries, soup kitchens and shelters.

Now in its 21st year, the Stamp Out Hunger food drive is the nation’s largest single-day food drive, having collected more than one billion pounds of food since its inception in 1993. In 2012, generous Americans donated more than 70 million pounds of food, which marked the ninth consecutive year that at least 70 million pounds were collected.

Here are some of the outstanding efforts in local communities:

Louisville GA 1,135 lbs of food

Ocilla GA 1,565 lbs of food

Finance department honors employees' Postal service

North Florida Finance Manager recently honored department employees who have reached service achievements.

USPS recognizes career employees with service award pins at the 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years of creditable government service. 

These awards are not to be taken lightly as many of our employees retire or leave military service prior to beginning work with the USPS.    

All of the employees recognized have built their careers in different areas, yet they have demonstrated their abilities to remain committed.  

Annie Scott, TACS Clerk – 30 yrs

Greg Conger, TACS Clerk – 30 yrs

Janet Peterson-Steen, Data Collection Tech – 30 yrs

 Dorothy Bess, Data Collection Tech – 25 yrs

Glen St. Mary FL Post Office hosts local 2nd grade students

The employees from the Glen Saint Mary FL Post Office recently hosted 2nd grade students from the Westside Elementary School.

Students were shown a right hand drive rural vehicle and learned how to safely check their mailbox at home.

Postal employees Nathan King, Lisa Prescott and Missy Whitehead were honored to host a tour of their facility.

Each student addressed, mailed and postmarked a letter of postcard to their family or a friend.

 It was a great day for a field trip and these students learned a lot about our Post Office and how the Postal Service operates .