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March 4, 2010
Five Myths About The U.S. Postal Service
By John E. Potter
Sunday, February 28, 2010
For 235 years, the U.S. Postal Service has delivered your mail in snow, rain and dark of night. However, tough market conditions are creating new challenges for our business. Misconceptions about the future of our enterprise abound; dispelling these myths will show that we can continue to deliver the mail.
1. The Postal Service wastes taxpayer dollars.
The Postal Service, reorganized in 1971 as an independent agency of the executive branch, operates as a commercial entity. We rely on the sale of postage, mail products and services for revenue.
A small annual appropriation from Congress reimburses the USPS for free mail for the blind and absentee-ballot mailing for overseas military personnel. Otherwise, we have not received taxpayer funds to support postal operations since 1982; in fact, though we're often described as "quasi-governmental," we're required by law to cover our costs.
2. The Postal Service is inefficient.
Ten years ago, it took 70 employees one hour to sort 35,000 letters. Today, in that same hour, two employees process that same volume of mail. Though the number of addresses in the nation has grown by nearly 18 million in the past decade, the number of employees who handle the increased delivery load has decreased by more than 200,000.
According to the U.N.-affiliated Universal Postal Union, we deliver nearly half of the world's mail. The World Economic Forum, host of the annual summit of global power players in Davos, Switzerland, consistently ranks the U.S. Postal Service among the top 4 percent of more than 120 nations' and territories' postal services.
But keeping operating costs down is the greatest testament to efficiency. Since 2002, the Postal Service has cut its costs by $43 billion, including by $6 billion in 2009. These savings have come through workforce and overtime reduction, the renegotiation of more than 500 supplier contracts, the consolidation of facilities, the closing of administrative offices, and cuts in travel expenses and supply budgets.
Despite such efforts, the Postal Service was added to the Government Accountability Office's "high-risk list" last July to help put it on a more sustainable financial path. The GAO assessment, with which we agree, accurately reflects the Postal Service's fiscal condition, but the announcement also noted that many of the actions we've taken to reduce costs should continue.
We've also asked Congress to eliminate the statutory requirement that we deliver mail six days a week. A switch to five-day delivery would help us save more than $3 billion a year while still devoting appropriate resources to delivering the mail.
3. Mail is not reliable.
Independent quarterly surveys conducted by IBM confirm that the Postal Service has achieved record reliability levels. In the last quarter of 2009, on-time overnight delivery of single-piece first-class mail was at 96 percent for the fifth straight quarter, an agency best.
We're not only punctual, we're trusted and secure. According to the Federal Trade Commission, as little as 2 percent of identity crimes occur through the mail. Theft of a wallet or purse is responsible for 5 percent -- meaning your documents are safer in the mail then they are in your pocket.
4. The USPS is not environmentally friendly.
There's no way around it: Delivering mail uses fossil fuels, and mail often produces paper waste. Still, the Postal Service is greener than you think. As long as consumers and businesses use physical mail, we're committed to finding ways to process it responsibly.
Our fleet of 44,000 alternative-fuel-capable vehicles is one of the largest in the world and includes electric, three-wheeled electric, hybrid electric, ethanol, fuel-cell, biodiesel and propane technology. More than a half-billion packages and envelopes that we provide free annually are recyclable and made of environmentally friendly materials. The quality of the raw materials in our packaging, including tape and labels, makes the USPS the only shipping company to meet the stringent eco-design and manufacturing standards set by McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry in its Cradle to Cradle program.
Last year, we recycled more than 200,000 tons of paper, plastics and other waste -- the equivalent of saving 1.67 million barrels of oil, according to an online Environmental Protection Agency calculator. There are Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified post offices, a 2.5-acre green roof on a major facility in downtown Manhattan, solar photovoltaic building systems and other sustainable building designs in use across the country.
Still, saving the environment doesn't begin and end with the Postal Service. That's why we encourage our customers to "read, respond and recycle." In 8,000 post offices nationwide, signs remind P.O. box customers to open their mail, take whatever action is necessary and place the waste in our recycling bins. The EPA reports that standard mail represents less than 2.1 percent of the material in our nation's landfills. (By comparison, disposable diapers represent 2.2 percent, glass beer and soft-drink bottles 3 percent, and yard trimmings 6.9 percent.)
5. The USPS can't compete with the private sector.
The Postal Service can and does compete. Our closest competitors, UPS and FedEx, don't threaten our business; as two of our biggest customers, they help build it. Our competition pays us to deliver more than 400 million of their ground packages every year in residential areas and on Saturdays. In turn, the USPS contracts with UPS and FedEx for air transportation to take advantage of their comprehensive air networks.
Although stamp prices have increased about 33 percent over the past 10 years, this increase is in line with inflation. By comparison, private carriers raised their prices by as much as 60 percent between 1999 and 2009. The Postal Service is, and has always been, a bargain.
It's no secret that the Postal Service has been losing money since 2007. What are not well known are the financial demands of the Postal Reform Act of 2006 -- demands not faced by the private sector. Though the USPS is self-supporting, its finances are tied to the federal budget because postal employees participate in federal retirement plans. In 2006, Congress required that the USPS prefund 80 percent of future postal retiree health benefits. This will cost more than $5 billion a year through 2016. No other federal agency or private company carries such a heavy burden.
Without the prefunding requirement, the Postal Service would have been better able to weather the recent recession. In 2008, prefunding contributed to a loss of $2.8 billion. Without it, we would have been $2.8 billion in the black.
Though we operate in a difficult legislative and economic environment, we are prepared to forge ahead. On March 2, we are releasing our plan for future financial viability and greater business flexibility -- a plan that will keep the Postal Service thriving for years to come.
John E. Potter is postmaster general of the United States.
March 2, 2010
Contract Post Office Now Open In The Forum
Fort Myers, Fl – Postmaster Anne Murray is pleased to announce the grand opening of a contract Post Office located in the Forum Shopping Center off Colonial Boulevard inside “Get Your Paint On”, a paint your own pottery studio business. This convenient location just off Colonial Boulevard will provide full postal services at postal prices. A grand opening will be hosted on March 12th at 10:00 a.m. as this location joins thirteen other Ft Myers / Cape Coral area businesses who have partnered with the United States Postal Service to provide Post Offices within their private businesses.
Get Your Paint On is located at 3398 Forum Blvd, suite 112. The owner is Paul Krupick and the phone number for this location is 239-337-4976. The hours of operation for the Post Office will be Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
This newest contract Post Office should be a convenient stop for customers traveling between Ft Myers and Lehigh Acres. Gateway residents are also encouraged to take advantage of this new location to conduct their Post Office business.
January 19, 2010
Perfect Valentine’s Gift Can Be “Packaged with Love”
Collectible Ella Fitzgerald CD and
postage stamp available only
through the U.S. Postal Service
If you’re looking for a special Valentine’s Day gift for Mom, Dad, or another special person, the Post Office has a great idea! A collectible Ella Fitzgerald CD, Love Letters from Ella, will be available beginning Monday, January 25. This musical collection is being released in conjunction with Concord Music Group to promote the use of mail during the Valentine’s Day season as well as Black History Month and will be available in limited quantities exclusively at select Post Offices across the United States and by mail in the Ft Myers/Cape Coral area. The cost for the CD is $10.99.
On Monday, January 25, a representative of the Postal Service will be at the Page Field Post Office, 2655 N Airport Road, Fort Myers, to sell the special CD from 10 am to 2 pm. It is also available by mail; send a check or money order payable to Postmaster to USPS Customer Relations, 79 Mid Cape Ter, Cape Coral, Fl 33991.
The extra good news is that there is no sales tax or shipping fee to purchase the Ella CD. As an additional service, the Postal Service will mail the CD to the gift recipient in a heart decorated padded envelope with an accompanying “packaged with love” gift tag. The cost of this additional service is $3.75.
First issued in 2007, Love Letters From Ella, is a collection of her most cherished love songs, recorded with some of her favorite collaborators, including Count Basie and his orchestra, Joe Pass and André Previn. This special edition boasts a full reproduction of Ella’s commemorative USPS postage stamp, available for the first time anywhere since its original issue in 2007.
The magical 10-track CD, mixed in high-definition audio, includes Ella and Basie swinging “Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone,” an intimate duet between Joe Pass and Fitzgerald on “The One I Love” and a playful performance of “Our Love is Here to Stay” with pianist André Previn. Love Letters From Ella also features the celebrated singer accompanied by The London Symphony Orchestra on a stirring rendition of “Cry Me a River.” The London Symphony Orchestra recorded the accompaniment, arranged by 24-time GRAMMY® Award-nominee Jorge Calandrelli, at Abbey Road studios in London.
January 5, 2010
Customized Postage Lets You Personalize Your Mail
Once upon a time, you had to do something pretty remarkable, and be deceased at least ten years, just to be considered for U.S. postage. Now you and your friends can join George Washington and other American heroes on the front of your next envelope!
Customized postage is a creative way to give your mail a personal touch. It has two parts: the image of your choice and a state-of-the-art barcode. All customized postage is compatible with the automated mail processing systems of the U.S. Postal Service, so no matter how goofy someone looks, the mail will still get delivered!
Getting started is easy. Go online to www.usps.com/postagesolutions/customizedpostage.htm. Pick from one of our authorized postal partners—photo.stamps.com, PictureitPostage.com, zazzle.com or stampexpressions.com. Have a digital file of the image you want to use ready, and don’t worry—they accept all of the common image formats. You can crop, enlarge, rotate—tinker with the image until you get it just the way you want it—and then pick a border color. Decide how many you want to buy, and pay up. Your new sheets of postage will be printed and sent to you through the mail.
Business owners, you too can use customized postage to jazz up your envelopes and enhance your customer message. Saks Fifth Avenue is using it—your business can, too!
Customized postage can be printed in a variety of denominations, so you can use them on post cards, First-Class Mail envelopes, direct mail, packages, and more. All of the companies offer sheets of 20 stickers; PictureItPostage.com and Stamps.com also make them in rolls to fit on your business’ mailing equipment.
Of course, you can’t use just any photo. The images must be created by you, belong to you or your business, or not violate copyright laws in any other way. They also must not be inappropriate or offensive. See the company websites for more information.
What are you waiting for? Try customized postage today.
For more information about purchasing stamps, stamps by mail, postal regulations, a free subscription to USA Philatelic magazine, Post Office events, the location of the nearest postal store or contract unit, or for answers to your specific Postal Service questions, contact USPS at 1-800-275-8777, or visit www.usps.com. To schedule a presentation for your community, club or group on how the Postal Service brings the Post Office to your home or office computer, call 239-573-9638.
December 17, 2009
Callaghan Stark from Calgary Canada is here for the holidays and he was just one of the many who didn't make it past Naples Postmaster Richard Barber's red kettle without "digging deep". Postmaster Barber's stellar performance as a bell ringer is sure to make him one of the top producers for the Salvation Army's red kettle campaign. Postmaster Barber took two hours out of his busy day today to ring the bell and encourage all who passed by to make a donation.
December 17, 2009
Need Postage Stamps? It’s Easier Than You Think
Need postage stamps? They may be closer than you think. Save yourself a trip to the Post Office the next time you need stamps, because now you can get them wherever you are, even if you’re staying in.
Order online. Visit the Postal Store at usps.com for a wide variety of stamps. Just click “Buy Stamps & Shop” to make a quick purchase for a nominal fee. Or click “Click-N-Ship” to print postage for mailing packages online.
Order by phone. Call 1-800-STAMP 24 (1-800-782-6724) for the full line of stamps or to order specific stamps for a nominal fee.
While you’re “out and about,” you can pick up stamps anywhere you see the “Buy Stamps Here” symbol . . . like your local grocery, pharmacy, convenience and office supply stores. Even at banks and ATMs. Or to find the nearest location, visit usps.com and click “Locate a Post Office,” then under “Options,” select “Alternate Locations to Buy Stamps.”
From your mail carrier. Get your stamps by mail; pay no fee for ordering and get free delivery to your home or office. Ask your mail carrier for a mail-order form. Fill out the form, make a check or money order payable to United States Postal Service, and mail it to the Post Office. Your carrier will deliver your stamps within a few days.
By telephone. Use your credit card and the Postal Service’s 24-hour stamp hotline to order the postage you need. There is a small handling fee. Dial 1800-STAMP-24 (1-800-782-6724).
Save yourself a trip to the Post Office and standing in line. Use one of the above methods for obtaining your postage. Try it. You’ll like the convenience!
For more information about purchasing stamps, stamps by mail, postal regulations, a free subscription to USA Philatelic magazine, Post Office events, the location of the nearest postal store or contract unit, or for answers to your specific Postal Service questions, contact USPS at 1-800-275-8777, or visit www.usps.com. To schedule a presentation for your community, club or group on how the Postal Service brings the Post Office to your home or office computer, call 239-573-9638.
December 17, 2009
Hallmark Cards Available Now at Page Field Post Office
The Page Field Post Office, 2655 N. Airport Road, Fort Myers, is now one of 500 post offices nationwide to be selected as a distributor of selected Hallmark Cards.
Selected Hallmark Cards are available for purchase at the Page Field Post Office at the same price as in a Hallmark store. Greeting cards are a natural fit for the Post Office. The selected cards include those for thank yous, happy birthday, and other special occasions.
What makes it easy for the customer is they can purchase the card and mail it at the same time!
In addition, everything you need to prepare your package for shipping is available for sale at the Post Office. These ReadyPost products, include decorative packaging items, packaging tape, bubble wraps, various size boxes make it easy for the customer to prepare packages and send them all at once. ReadyPost products are reasonably priced.
For more information about purchasing stamps, stamps by mail, postal regulations, a free subscription to USA Philatelic magazine, Post Office events, the location of the nearest postal store or contract unit, or for answers to your specific Postal Service questions, contact USPS at 1-800-275-8777, or visit www.usps.com. To schedule a presentation for your community, club or group on how the Postal Service brings the Post Office to your home or office computer, call 239-573-9638.
November 19, 2009
Winter Holidays Featured on 2009 Season Stamps
During the October Mega Stamp Show in New York, the U.S. Postal Service introduced the 44-cent Winter Holidays special stamps in four designs in a pressure-sensitive adhesive booklet of 20 stamps. Designed by Richard Sheaff, Scottsdale, AZ, the stamps are on sale nationwide. 1.3 billion stamps have been printed.
The U.S. Postal Service is celebrating the winter holiday season with stamps featuring a reindeer, snowman, gingerbread man, and a toy soldier. A merry reindeer dangles a bulb ornament from his antler. Flurries of large flakes dust a snowman sporting a top hat, coal buttons, and a carrot nose. A gingerbread man is decorated for the season with green, red, and white icing, and a toy solder smiles while standing at attention. Borders of evergreens, stars, wreaths, and holly add another holiday touch to the stamps.
To create the stamps, Joseph Cudd, Greensboro, NC first sketched the designs by hand and then finished them on the computer using a graphics tablet.
Customers have 90 days from the official first day of issuance date to obtain first day of sale postmarks on new stamps and stationery items. Collectors may request a local first day of sale postmark by mail only. There is no charge for servicing of first day of sale postmarks up to 50 covers. Mail-in customers must supply a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage applied to return the serviced covers.
To obtain the first day of sale postmark, mail stationery items bearing The Winter Holidays stamps to: Customer Relations USPS, 79 Mid Cape Terr Ste 8, Cape Coral, FL 33991. Please specify which city you are requesting a postmark for—Fort Myers, Cape Coral, or Naples; if not specified, the postmark applied will be for the return address city. All orders must be postmarked by January 9, 2010.
For more information about purchasing stamps, stamps by mail, postal regulations, a free subscription to USA Philatelic magazine, Post Office events, the location of the nearest postal store or contract unit, or for answers to your specific Postal Service questions, contact USPS at 1-800-275-8777, or visit www.usps.com. To schedule a presentation for your community, club or group on how the Postal Service brings the Post Office to your home or office computer, call 239-573-9638.
November 19, 2009
It’s Time to Get Holiday Packages in the Mail
It’s time again to remind postal customers of deadlines in getting those holiday packages to their destinations on time—whether they are sent to addresses in the United States or to foreign addresses. Time seems to slip up on us and you don’t want to have your package arrive after that special day!
First-Class and Priority domestic mail (within the United States) must be sent no later than December 21; Express Mail can be sent as late as December 23 and arrive on time. However, Parcel Post must be sent by December 16.
If you’re sending military mail to APO/FPO Zip Codes Space Available Mail (SAM) must go by November 28; and Parcel Airlift Mail’s (PAL) deadline is December 4. First-Class and Priority Mail needs to be in the mail by December 11. Express Mail Military Service shipments may be sent as late as December 18.
International Mail has earlier mailing deadlines.
Africa and South and Central America deadlines include: First-Class and Priority Mail, December 4; Express Mail International, December 12; and Global Express Guaranteed, December 18.
Asia/Pacific Rim, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, and the Middle East deadlines include: First-Class and Priority Mail, December 11; Express Mail International, December 17; and Global Express Guaranteed, December 18.
Plan ahead so your holiday mail arrives in plenty of time!
For more information about purchasing stamps, stamps by mail, postal regulations, a free subscription to USA Philatelic magazine, Post Office events, the location of the nearest postal store or contract unit, or for answers to your specific Postal Service questions, contact USPS at 1-800-275-8777, or visit www.usps.com. To schedule a presentation for your community, club or group on how the Postal Service brings the Post Office to your home or office computer, call 239-573-9638.
November 9, 2009
“Tis The Snowman Season”
at Cape Central Post Office
Saturday, November 28th, 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Cape Coral Central P.O., 1030 SE 9th Ave, Cape Coral
Join us for this FREE event for the entire family to kick off the holiday season. Have a family photo taken for holiday greeting cards with our scenic snowy backdrop. An adult email address is required.
Learn how to mail your holiday packages from home using your personal computer and taking advantage of the postage discount offered online from usps.com, FREE delivery confirmation service, FREE carrier pick up of your packages and bill me later payment!
Activities for children ages 3-12 include:
Special “Letters to Santa” writing station and EXPRESS delivery to the North Pole
A holiday craft activity—snowman finger puppet
Holiday paper maze activity
Guess the candies in the jar
Fingerprinting by VOICE
Get a holiday face tattoo
Information on stamp collecting, FREE first day of sale postmark cachet envelope
Bring in a new unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots program and receive a ticket for a drawing to win a prize.
July 1, 2009
Make Your "Mail Moment" A Daily Event
By Anne Murray, Postmaster Ft. Myers/Cape Coral & Richard Barber, Postmaster Naples
Leaving your mail in the mail receptacle overnight is an invitation for trouble. It only takes one opportunity for someone looking to steal your identity to hit the jackpot. Postal customers should remove all incoming mail from their mail box each day. Innocent looking standard bulk business mail can contain valuable information for identity thieves, giving them an opportunity to do great damage to your credit. Do not leave outgoing mail for collection in your mail box overnight.
Be aware of federal holidays when there is no mail delivery. Do not leave mail for collection on federal holidays. Guard your mail as closely as you would your check book. The Postal Inspection Service receives many reports on identity theft with information obtained from the mail.
If you know that someone has tampered with your mail, file a report with your local law enforcement and contact the Postal Inspection Service. You can file a mail theft report on the Postal Service website at www.usps.com or you can call the Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455.
When you will be away from your home overnight, ask a neighbor to collect your mail for you or put your mail on hold with your letter carrier.
For more information about purchasing stamps, stamps by mail, postal regulations, a free subscription to USA Philatelic magazine, Post Office events, the location of the nearest postal store or contract unit, or for answers to your specific Postal Service questions, contact USPS at 1-800-275-8777, or visit www.usps.com. To schedule a presentation for your community, club or group on how the Postal Service brings the Post Office to your home or office computer, call 239-573-9638.
June 4, 2009
Passport Fair Offered by Naples Post Office
By Richard Barber, Postmaster Naples
Naples, FL - On Saturday, June 13, the Coco River Post Office, 1130 Creekside Way, Naples will offer a passport fair. No appointments will be taken and individuals will be served on a first-come, first-served basis from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Effective June 1, the last phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative took effect. A passport, passport card, or acceptable documentation is now needed for land border crossings and sea travel. The passport fair will offer passport photos and processing of new passport applications.
Everyone, including newborn infants, is required to obtain a passport in his or her own name. For children under 16, the consent of both parents/guardians is required. A new passport card has been introduced and facilitates entry at U.S. land and sea ports of entry when arriving from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda; however, it may not be used to travel by air.
The following items are required to complete the passport:
o a completed application (form is available at www.usps.com; do not sign it until instructed to by the passport clerk)
o proof of identity (a valid permanent state driver's license, a government ID or military ID, previous passport, Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization Certificate)
o proof of U.S. citizenship (previous passport, original or certified birth certificate issued from the state with a raised, embossed, impressed or multicolored seal and the registrar's signature and date of certificate filing)
o two official passport photos (passport photo service is available at Page Field)
o Social Security Number
Department of State fees vary according to age and type. They must be made by money order, check bank draft, or cashier's check made payable to the U.S. Department of State; debit and credit card payment is not available. Each individual making application must have a separate payment. Charges include:
o the fee for age under 16 passport book is $60
o the fee for those age 16 and over for passport book is $75
o the fee for those under age 16 for passport card is $10
o the fee for those age 16 and over for passport card is $20
In addition, the Postal Service charges $25 per application as the processing fee. For this fee a debit or credit card may be used in addition to cash, money order or check made payable to the Postal Service.
For additional information about the passport application process or to make an appointment for Monday - Friday passport service at East Naples Carrier Annex call 239-643-1642.
June 3, 2009
Public Invited To Participate In a Bob Hope Trivia Contest
Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, FL – The public is invited to participate in a trivia contest in honor of the 44-cent Bob Hope stamp now on sale at all Post Offices. All entries should be postmarked no later than June 30 and mailed to Customer Relations, USPS, 79 Mid Cape Ter Ste 8, Cape Coral, FL 33991-9998. Be sure to include your name, complete mailing address, and a local phone number. The individual with the most correct answers will receive a collectible Bob Hope stamp image print. In the event of a tie, a drawing will be held to determine the winner.
Bob Hope (1903-2003) devoted his life to making people laugh. Well-known for his many television appearances, Hope also found success on the live stage, in radio shows, and in motion pictures. He became one of the most honored and beloved performers of the 20th century. Cited by the Guinness Book of Records as the most honored entertainer in the world, Hope received more than 2000 awards and citations for humanitarian and professional efforts, including 54 honorary degrees.
Born in England, he made USO performances during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War. Among his numerous awards were the Life Achievement Award at the Kennedy Center Honors, the Ronald Reagan Freedom Award, and four honor Academy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. On his 100th birthday, an intersection of Hollywood and Vine in Los Angeles was renamed as “Bob Hope Square.” 35 states declared “Bob Hope Day.”
An avid golfer, he played to a four handicap and helped found the Bob Hope Desert Classic pro-am tournament.
1. In what 1938 film did Bob Hope introduce his trademark “thanks for the memory” song? (1 point)
2. The U.S. Military Academy awarded him the Sylvanus Thayer Award in 1968. (true or false, 1 point)
3. What professional sports teams did Bob Hope partially own? (2 points)
4. What was Bob Hope’s birth name? (1 point)
5. In what year did Bob Hope receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for outstanding contributions to humanitarian causes? (1 point)
6. How many times did Bob Hope host the Academy Awards? (1 point)
7. Who were his co-stars in his “Road” movies? (2 points)
8. What sports equipment became an integral prop during his television and USO shows? (1 point)
9. What honor did the The Ohio State University marching band give Bob Hope? (1 point)
10. What song did he introduce in the movie “The Paleface?” (1 point)
11. A 1997 Act of Congress, signed by President Clinton, named him a “Distinguished Veteran.” (true or false, 1 point)
12. His broadcasting career spanned over 60 years, including a long association with ABC. (true or false, 1 point)
13. Under what name did Bob Hope box unsuccessfully? (1 point)
14. In what year did Bob Hope become an American citizen? (1 point)
15. Based on physical attributes, what was Bob Hope’s nickname? (1 point)
16. Bob Hope’s Christmas specials often featured a performance of what song from his 1951 film, “The Lemon Drop Kid.” (1 point)
17. In 1995, what three U.S. presidents did Bob Hope play a round of golf with? (3 points)
18. Queen Elizabeth II appointed him as an honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. (true or false, 1 point)
19. In 2001, the C-17 what was the name of the plane that transported the pilots and crew of the reconnaissance plane downed in China back safe and sound to Hawaii. (1 point)
20. As a youth, Bob Hope won prizes for his impersonation of Charlie Chaplin. (true or false, 1 point)
21. In 1968, when introducing the Academy Awards, he quipped, “Welcome to the Academy Awards, or as it’s known at my house, ____. (1 point)
22. What is the price of the Bob Hope uncut press sheet for sale on usps.com? (Hint: visit usps.com, click on buy stamps and shop, type Bob Hope in the search box.) (3 points)
23. Mail your entry with a Bob Hope postage stamp. (2 points)
Customers have 90 days from the official first day of issuance date to obtain first day of sale postmarks on new stamps and stationery items. Collectors may request a local first day of sale postmark by mail only. Mail-in customers must supply a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage.
To obtain the first day of sale postmark, mail stationery items bearing a Bob Hope stamp to: Customer Relations USPS, 79 Mid Cape Ter Ste 8, Cape Coral, FL 33991. Please specify which city you are requesting a postmark for—Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Naples; if not specified, the postmark applied will be for the return address city. All orders must be postmarked by August 30, 2009. Cachet envelopes bearing the Bob Hope stamp and a first day of sale postmark may be obtained at the same address for $3.00 each and must be requested by August 30, 2009.
For more information about purchasing stamps, stamps by mail, postal regulations, a free subscription to USA Philatelic magazine, Post Office events, the location of the nearest postal store or contract unit, or for answers to your specific Postal Service questions, contact USPS at 1-800-275-8777, or visit www.usps.com.
To schedule a presentation for your community, club or group on how the Postal Service brings the Post Office to your home or office computer, call 239-573-9638.
May 27, 2009
CUSTOMER FOCUS
NOW IS THE TIME
MARKETING EXPERTS FOCUS ON DIRECT MAIL
Any time is a good time for direct mail campaigns. But many experts believe that in a down economy, right now is an especially good time for marketing-focused organizations to build their customer base and revenue with what they call “direct response” campaigns.
This is a central theme in a series of videos that’s part of a package USPS mailed to 305,000 potential direct mail customers earlier this month (Link, 5/21). One of the videos features the CMO Group — an organization composed of chief marketing officers from some of the nation’s best-known companies.
In the video, CMO Group spokesperson Donavan Neale-May says marketers’ initial reaction to today’s challenging economy is to “hunker down and reduce the footprint.” That’s not a good idea, he suggests. “Smarter companies don’t do that,” he says, adding that now is a good time to “introduce additional ways to market and to be more creative.”
Another CMO Group spokesperson, Liz Miller, encourages companies to use direct mail campaigns because their results are easier to measure “in a time when CMOs have to justify every penny they spend.” She says that now is the time to “shape customer behavior” by directly engaging them. “You can build on that behavior when we come out of this economy,” she says.
Click here to see the video. And look for Link stories in the coming weeks with more videos featuring successful direct mail campaigns.
May 27, 2009
Media Advisory
Cape Coral Mayor Jim Burch Will Personally Proclaim May 29th
as “Support The Troops” Day
EVENT: Fort Myers / Cape Coral Postmaster Anne Murray hosts a first day of sale event for the Bob Hope commemorative postage stamp on what would have been Hope’s 106th birthday.
WHO: This event is open to the public, refreshments will be served.
WHAT: Cape Coral Mayor Jim Burch will personally proclaim Friday, May 29th as “Support the Troops” Day. First Day of Sale Bob Hope commemorative stamps will be available for purchase and a limited edition stamp cachet envelope with a first day of sale Fort Myers or Cape Coral postmark will also be available for purchase.
A “top packer” challenge will be held to see who can pack the most items in a Priority Mail APO/FPO flat rate box. The competition will be judged by the USPS Consumer Advisory Council and three winners will be selected to win free postage for their package going to a military address. Contestants are to bring their unsealed packages from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm for judging based on the number of items packed and total weight of the box.
WHEN: 10:00 a.m. Friday May 29th
WHERE: Cape Coral Central Post Office, 1030 SE 9th Ave, Cape Coral, Fl
BACKGROUND: The Bob Hope postage stamp honors a great entertainer who dedicated a significant part of his life to entertaining men and women in uniform. The Postal Service carries on his legacy by encouraging communities nationwide to support the troops and send care packages to military personnel stationed around the world.
May 22, 2009
STAMP SHOWCASE
Bob Hope Postage Stamp First Day of Sale Event
Fort Myers, Cape Coral FL - On May 29, the Postal Service will issue a stamp honoring actor and comedian Bob Hope on what would have been Hope’s 106th birthday. Hope dedicated a significant part of his life to entertaining men and women in uniform. After giving hundreds of performances overseas, he earned the nickname of “G.I. Bob” and in 1997 became the first person recognized by Congress as an honorary veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces. Hope’s thousands of honors also include the Congressional gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Please join us on Friday, May 29th at Cape Coral Central Post Office, 1030 SE 9th Ave, Cape Coral for a special Bob Hope – “Support The Troops” stamp event from 10 am to 2 pm.
Mayor Jim Burch has proclaimed May 29, 2009 Support The Troops day in Cape Coral, Florida!
A limited edition collectible cachet envelope featuring the Bob Hope stamp image and a first day of sale official postmark will be available for sale in all Fort Myers and Cape Coral Post Offices starting May 29th while supplies last. The cachet envelopes can be requested by mail. Send $3 per envelope, a self addressed return envelope and indicate the postmark city, Fort Myers or Cape Coral to: Bob Hope Cachet, 79 Mid Cape Ter, Cape Coral, Fl 33991.
A “Top Packer” challenge will feature a competition to see who can pack the most items in a Priority Mail APO/FPO flat rate box. The competition will be judged by the USPS Consumer Advisory Council and three winners will be selected to win free postage for their package going to a military address. The winner will be determined based on the number of items and total weight of the package. Contestants can bring their unsealed packages to the Cape Coral Central Post Office event location from 10 am to 2 pm for judging.
The Postal Service is carrying on Bob Hope’s legacy of entertaining American men and women in uniform by encouraging communities nationwide to support the troops and send care packages to military personnel stationed around the world. Care packages and reminders of home are a big morale boost for military service members. To help families and friends of military personnel, the Postal Service offers a discount on its largest Priority Mail Flat-Rate boxes. “I want to make sure our residents know about the discount for military shipping as well as our free Military Care Kit, designed specifically for military families sending packages overseas”, said Postmaster Anne Murray.
May 20, 2009
Extreme Mailbox Makeover Contest Winners Announced
Fort Myers, Cape Coral Fl - Postmaster Anne Murray will present the winners of the Extreme Mailbox Makeover contest with their prizes on Friday May 22nd, 11:00 a.m. at the Cape Coral Central Post Office located at 1030 SE 9th Ave. Bruce & Donna Boyd of Cape Coral and Bob & Sandy Anderson of Fort Myers will be presented with their special edition personalized postage stamps bearing the image of their winning mail boxes.
May is Mailbox Improvement Month. The USPS Consumer Advisory Council sponsored the Extreme Mailbox Makeover contest as an incentive for local residents to make improvements to their mail receptacles.
A before and after photo of each mail box is on display at the Page Field and Cape Coral Central main Post Offices for the month of May.
March 25, 2009
The last phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative is fast approaching. Effective June 1, 2009 a passport, passport card or other acceptable documentation is needed for land border crossings and sea travel.
Get Saturday service for new passports and passport renewals at the Page Field Post Office Passport Fair on Saturday, March 28th from noon to 3 p.m. This full service fair will offer passport photos and processing of new passport applications as well as passport renewals. Application for the new passport card priced at $20, good for land border crossings and sea travel will be offered.
Individuals needing to obtain passports have an opportunity to complete the application process during a passport fair to be held at the Page Field Post Office, 2655 N. Airport Road, Fort Myers, on Saturday, March 28th , between Noon and 3:00 p.m. No appointments will be taken; applicants will be served on a first-come, first-served basis.
Everyone, including newborn infants, is required to obtain a passport in his or her own name. For children under 16, the consent of both parents/guardians is required.
Individuals needing to renew a passport will be serviced during the passport fair only if they will be purchasing new photos at the fair and using Express Mail service with tracking to mail their renewal to the Department of State.
A new passport card has been introduced and facilitates entry at U.S. land and sea ports of entry when arriving from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. However, it may not be used to travel by air.
In order to complete the application process, the following items are required:
a completed application (form is available at www.usps.com; do not sign it until instructed to by the passport clerk)
proof of identity (a valid permanent state driver’s license, a government ID or military ID, previous passport, Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization Certificate)
proof of U.S. citizenship (previous passport, original or certified birth certificate issued from the state with a raised, embossed, impressed or multicolored seal and the registrar’s signature and date of certificate filing)
two official passport photos (passport photo service is available at Page Field)
Social Security Number
Department of State fees vary according to age and type. They must be made by money order, check, bank draft, or cashier’s check made payable to the U.S. Department of State; debit and credit card payment is not available. Charges include:
the fee for age under 16 passport book is $60
the fee for those age 16 and over for passport book is $75
the fee for those under age 16 for passport card is $10
the fee for those age 16 and over for passport card is $20
In addition, the Postal Service charges $25 per application as the processing fee. For this fee a debit or credit card may be used in addition to cash, money order or check made payable to the Postal Service.
For additional information about the passport application process call 239-277-3352.
March 18,2009
Take a look at the Direct Mail Facts Sheet by clicking here.
March 18, 2009
Name of group: Southwest Florida Postal Customer Council
Event: Intelligent Mail Barcode/ eMove Update Training Class
Day, date and time of event: Thursday April 2nd, 11:00 a.m. to 2pm
Place of event/address: Page Field Post Office 2655 N Airport Rd. Ft Myers
Speaker(s): Cathy Buchanan, Mail Piece Design Analyst
Program (topic): Learn how to utilize Intelligent Mail services to enhance the value of the customers mailing experience. Will also discuss the new eMove Update standards and options available to the customer.
Cost (if applicable): Free
Reservations: Reserve by visiting www.swflapcc.com and clicking on upcoming events or contact us – seating is limited
Telephone number for more information: PH: 813-243-5944 EMAIL: cathy.m.buchanan@usps.gov
March 18th, 2009
"Do Not Mail": Florida
State Sen. Dave Aronberg (D) this week indicated that he does not plan to push for passage of his "do not mail" bill. The Senator indicated that he was not fully aware of the broad opposition to such legislation upon introduction. Aronberg's bill, SB 1324, has a companion in the Florida House, HB 781 sponsored by Rep. Mary Brandenburg (D). It is unknown if Brandenburg will continue to push the bill.
The last phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative is fast approaching. Effective June 1, 2009 a passport, passport card or other acceptable documentation is needed for land border crossings and sea travel.
Get Saturday service for new passports and passport renewals at the Page Field Post Office Passport Fair on Saturday, March 28th from noon to 3 p.m. This full service fair will offer passport photos and processing of new passport applications as well as passport renewals. Application for the new passport card priced at $20, good for land border crossings and sea travel will be offered.
Individuals needing to obtain passports have an opportunity to complete the application process during a passport fair to be held at the Page Field Post Office, 2655 N. Airport Road, Fort Myers, on Saturday, March 28th , between Noon and 3:00 p.m. No appointments will be taken; applicants will be served on a first-come, first-served basis.
Everyone, including newborn infants, is required to obtain a passport in his or her own name. For children under 16, the consent of both parents/guardians is required.
Individuals needing to renew a passport will be serviced during the passport fair only if they will be purchasing new photos at the fair and using Express Mail service with tracking to mail their renewal to the Department of State.
A new passport card has been introduced and facilitates entry at U.S. land and sea ports of entry when arriving from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. However, it may not be used to travel by air.
In order to complete the application process, the following items are required:
a completed application (form is available at www.usps.com; do not sign it until instructed to by the passport clerk)
proof of identity (a valid permanent state driver’s license, a government ID or military ID, previous passport, Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization Certificate)
proof of U.S. citizenship (previous passport, original or certified birth certificate issued from the state with a raised, embossed, impressed or multicolored seal and the registrar’s signature and date of certificate filing)
two official passport photos (passport photo service is available at Page Field)
Social Security Number
Department of State fees vary according to age and type. They must be made by money order, check, bank draft, or cashier’s check made payable to the U.S. Department of State; debit and credit card payment is not available. Charges include:
the fee for age under 16 passport book is $60
the fee for those age 16 and over for passport book is $75
the fee for those under age 16 for passport card is $10
the fee for those age 16 and over for passport card is $20
In addition, the Postal Service charges $25 per application as the processing fee. For this fee a debit or credit card may be used in addition to cash, money order or check made payable to the Postal Service.
For additional information about the passport application process call 239-277-3352.
Do you mail folded self-mailers or letter size booklets? If you do, you need to read the new proposal by HQ. You can find it at our website: PE.USPS.COM, then look on the left side, blue column for "Federal Register". It will say: PROPOSED RULE FOR NEW STANDARDS FOR LETTER-SIZE BOOKLETS AND FOLDED SELF-MAILERS.
Do you use one of our competitors - DHL, FED EX or UPS? If so, would you be interested in a representative from the USPS to give you a cost comparison? Its free . . .
PostalOne! is a USPS program for permit imprint mailers. PostalOne! is where you can look up your account balance and fees; your past mailings; your receipts and how to submit your postage statements on line. If you would like to learn how to navigate PostalOne! and/or submit postage statements online classes are being offered. Email me and I'll send you the information.
Do-Not-Mail Proposals Stopped In Connecticut
Two bills to limit direct mail printing were dead on arrival before the state's General Assembly’s General Law Committee
Feb. 26, 2009
HARTFORD, CT — Two legislative proposals to limit the flow of direct advertising mail in Connecticut were dead on arrival before the General Assembly’s General Law Committee earlier this week.
No formal drafts were written for House Bills 5410 and 5413, which according to the committee’s clerk, effectively kills the proposals for this legislative session in Connecticut.
“The General Law Committee should be commended,” said Jim Tepper, president of Printing Industries of New England, the region’s largest trade association that represents 400 printing and graphic communications companies throughout the six-state region including 28 companies in Connecticut.
“The nation’s economy is struggling to get back on its feet. Advertising mail serves a vital purpose in helping the nation’s economy percolate,” Tepper said. “Any burdensome regulatory effort that stems the flow of mail is misguided and needs to be stopped. This now marks the third time Do Not Mail proposals have been stopped in state legislatures in our region. We successfully lobbied elected officials in New Hampshire and Vermont that limiting the flow of advertising mail was bad for businesses of all sizes, and we’re glad to see elected leaders in Connecticut agree.”
Lisbeth Lyons, vice president of government affairs for Printing Industries of America, the nation’s larges trade association for graphic communications companies agrees.
“From a pizza shop owner pursuing his entrepreneurial dream to the selling of automobiles and other durable goods, advertising mail helps consumers make informed spending choices. Advertising mail also drives business-to-business sales.”
“Elected officials in Connecticut deserve credit for rejecting ideas that add unnecessary regulatory oversight and hamper economic progress,” she said.
To date, Do Not Mail legislation has been introduced in nearly 20 state legislatures, but none have been passed into law.
IMPLEMENTING NEW MOVE UPDATE STANDARDS
Last November, the Move Update requirement — the USPS mailing standard that requires business mailers to match their address lists with official USPS change-of-address orders — was revised to help mailers improve the quality of their address lists.
The new requirement increased the minimum frequency of Move Update processing from 185 days to 95 days prior to the date of the mailing. The revised standard also extended for the first time Move Update requirements to all Standard Mail — including letters, flats, parcels and Not-Flat Machinable mailpieces.
“Mailers who follow the Move Update standard have cleaner address lists, resulting in more mail reaching intended recipients,” said Pritha Mehra, vice president, Business Mail Entry and Payment Technologies. “These customers also qualify for postal discounts, further increasing their return on investment.”
Move Update also helps reduce the number of mailpieces that are undeliverable as addressed, reducing USPS costs.
Though the new standard was implemented in November, customers were given six months to improve their Move Update processes. Beginning May 11, as long as a mailing’s error rate for Move Update compliance is under 30 percent, the mailing will qualify for postal discounts.
USPS will verify compliance with a new Performance-Based Verification (PBV) system. PBV evaluates mailers’ use of change-of-address information by drawing on live samples from mailings. It also streamlines mail acceptance and improves customer service by providing mailers with Move Update Reports — electronic feedback on their address quality. Move Update reports are available on PostalOne! to mailers whose mailings are processed on MERLIN (Mail Evaluation Readability Lookup Instrument) at sites that have the PBV process.
Local business mail acceptance employees should share the Move Update reports with their customers and work with them to improve their address quality. USPS has posted a Guide to Accessing Move Update Reports at ribbs.usps.gov. Click on Move Update, and then Latest News. The guide is listed in the blue box titled “Important Links.”
National deployment of the PBV system has begun and will be completed by March 31, 2009.
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