CFC's "Stanley Cup" Travels the District

CFC's "Stanley Cup" is on tour in South Florida. Today's stop is at the Quail Heights Post Office in Miami. Photo: Rose M. Castro Thanks to postal employees’ generous contributions, the South Florida District won the Traveling Trophy Award for the 2010 Atlantic Coast Combined Federal Campaign. The Traveling Trophy, also known as the CFC’s “Stanley Cup,” is the premier award. This trophy travels from federal agency to federal agency based on award criteria that includes the winning agency exceeding its goal, the dollar amount increased from the previous year, and the increase in participation. The cup is on tour throughout the South Florida District for all employees to share in the team's success.

Rural Carrier Veiga Saves the Day

By Lee Upfold Supervisor, Customer Services North Lauderdale Annex Serving as a member of the United States Postal Service, is a time honored tradition. Like police, fire and the military – many generations of family members serve side-by-side each other. Pride, dedication, technical expertise and selfless service are common traits among our ranks. Most of our customers have no idea of our 24-hour process and unique challenges we overcome each day, just to put the mail in the box. They know if the Post Office is delivering and the mail is somewhat on-time, there is some normalcy to their lives. Although many of our members serve behind the counter and in the back, the letter carrier is our ambassadors to the local community. We hear on the news of the letter carrier from Coral Springs that saved the babies life that drowned in a kiddie pool in the front yard, with an adult a sleep next to the pool. The carrier revived the baby, handed him back to the woman and drove off, without so much as giving his name. There are many stories like the one above and every letter carrier hopes that they too, will be prepared to act as quickly and bravely. Every story doesn’t always have a happy ending. Every letter carrier has to be ever vigilant on their routes. Something that looks so innocent can be very dangerous and life threatening. Such is the case of Rural Letter Carrier Ismary Veiga. Ismary was on her route and noticed an elderly lady, looking kind of lost. Ismary asked if she needed any help but the lady said no – that she was only handing out flyers. Ismary noticed that the lady didn’t have any flyers in her hand, but she continued on her route anyway. On the way back up the other side of the street, the same elderly lady was still in the same place, still looking confused. Ismary wanted to do something, but what. She remembered seeing a police officer in the park. She went and told the officer what she had seen, and the officer responded. It was a good thing he did, the elderly lady was actually the lookout for her fellow crooks inside the house, and the officer walked in on a robbery in progress. Let’s be helpful, yet safe.

Grow Your Business Days

Building on the success of its integrated ad campaign promoting Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelopes and the value of direct mail advertising, the Postal Service next quarter will revive its “Grow Your Business Days” program — an effort designed to educate small businesses about USPS products and services.

President and Chief Marketing/Sales Officer Paul Vogel says growth and revenue are the keys to the Postal Service’s future and the future of its customers. He also says if their business doesn’t grow, neither will the Postal Service’s.

While USPS does a good job of keeping its large-volume commercial customers updated, notes Vogel, it hasn’t always connected with smaller companies and local merchants to make them aware of postal offerings that make it easier and less expensive to do business with the Postal Service. And that’s where the new “Grow Your Business Days” campaign comes in.

Each quarter, beginning with quarter 3, USPS will focus on a different topic benefitting small business owners, with these events reinforcing the USPS core strategies to strengthen the business-to-consumer channel and to improve customer service. More than 1,200 events already have been booked across the nation. Currently, the South Florida District has 16 scheduled events being hosted by Level 21 and above Postmasters/Station Managers to educate customers and promote EDDM.

All offices are encouraged to host events, supported by Business Connect. Postmasters/Station Managers interested in hosting an event should contact the South Florida District Grow Your Business Day Coordinator, Lillian Castro, at (954) 436-4417.

Today is "Welcome Home Vietnam Vets Day"

The U.S. Senate declared March 30th “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day.”

On March 30, 1973, U.S. troops withdrew from Vietnam under the terms of the Treaty of Paris.

Senator Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, introduced the legislation saying, "Our soldiers served honorably and bravely in Vietnam. Unfortunately, they arrived home to a country in political turmoil, and never received the recognition they deserve. By setting March 30th aside as a day to focus on our Vietnam veterans, we can show our unified gratitude for their service and the sacrifices that these veterans made on our behalf."

Source: VFW

Stamps and All That Jazz

To celebrate America’s musical gift to the world, on Saturday the U.S. Postal Service issued the Jazz Appreciation Forever stamp during a ceremony at the Contemporary Arts Center in New Orleans, LA.

Inspired by vintage jazz record-album covers, Pasadena, CA, artist Paul Rogers captured the eclectic nature of jazz music and the spontaneity and improvisation of jazz artists in creating the art for the stamp.

“With this evocative Jazz Appreciation stamp, we celebrate the music and the musicians who play it in studios, clubs and concert halls and on festival stages,” said Thurgood Marshall Jr., Vice Chairman, Board of Governors. “I can’t think of a more perfect place to dedicate this new stamp than here in New Orleans, the birthplace of so many legendary jazz performers and the place where jazz first flowered near the dawn of the 20th century.”

Marshall added jazz is a pastime that brings people together, regardless of race, ethnicity or background.

“It’s a lot like the Postal Service, which has been bringing people together for more than 235 years, through the power of the mail,” he said.

Joining Marshall and Rogers at the dedication ceremony were Guy Cottrell, Chief Postal Inspector; Nancy Marinovic, President, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation; Shamarr Allen, leader of the funk band Underdawgs; and Louisiana District Manager Jeffery Taylor.

New Deputy PMG is Ronald A Stroman

The Postmaster General today announced the appointment of Ronald A. Stroman as Deputy Postmaster General (DPMG). Stroman, who most recently served as staff director, Committee on Oversight and Government Relations at the U.S. House of Representatives, will bring more than 30 years of professional experience in government, legislative affairs and leadership when he joins USPS as DPMG April 4.

As DPMG, Stroman will lead all outreach and communications with congressional and mailing industry leaders, as well as help ensure that every customer experience is a positive one. The DPMG position, like the Postmaster General position, is hired by the USPS Board of Governors. As DPMG, Stroman will serve on the board and on PMG Pat Donahoe’s Executive Leadership Team. The vice presidents of Government Relations, Corporate Communications and Consumer and Industry Affairs, and the Judicial Officer will report to Stroman.

“The board is pleased that Ron has accepted this appointment,” said Board Chairman Louis Giuliano. “His depth of understanding of the legislative process, as well as his demonstrated ability to work with members on both sides of the aisle, makes him an important addition to the USPS team as we work through the many issues facing us today.” As DPMG, Stroman will play the lead role in continuing to work with Congress to restructure the prefunding of retiree health benefits, adjust delivery frequency, and gain greater flexibility in aligning the Postal Service processing, distribution and retail networks. He will work closely to help strengthen relationships with the mailing industry and identify opportunities to improve interactions with postal customers.

Stroman has held senior positions at the U.S. House of Representatives, the General Accounting Office and the U.S. Department of Transportation, among other positions. He earned his Juris Doctorate from Rutgers University Law Center.

“A manager and a leader, Ron’s career is a testament to his ability to work in a bipartisan fashion and communicate effectively through challenge and change,” said Donahoe. “I look forward to working closely with Ron as we continue our evolution as a forward-thinking, fast-acting company with outstanding service as its foundation.”

Edison, MIA Finance Units to Close June 3

Today the South Florida District will announce that the Edison Center Finance Unit, 760 NW 62 Street, Miami, and the Miami International Airport Finance Unit, airport terminal fourth floor, Miami, permanently will close on Friday, June 3, 2011. Impacted employees will have an opportunity to bid on available positions in Miami. As a self-supporting government enterprise, the Postal Service receives no tax dollars, but relies solely on the sale of postage, products, and services to pay for operating expenses. Due to the drastic decline in mail volume, the Postal Service is in a financial crisis and must take action to reduce the size of its retail and delivery network. Post Office Box customers at both finance units will receive Change of Address cards and information on Post Office Box availability at neighboring Post Offices. There was a time when virtually every postal transaction required a visit to the local Post Office retail counter. Now many customers are looking for postal services other than at brick and mortar Post Offices. Today nearly 30 percent of transactions are conducted using alternate retail channels. Customers may purchase stamps or discounted shipping labels, request free package pickup, or research PO Box availability at usps.com. Stamps also may be purchased at 1-800-STAMP24 or by order form from a letter carrier. Many drug stores, grocery stores, and office supply companies carry stamps for the convenience of their customers. Retail locations are listed at usps.com. The decision to close these two Post Offices is based on a lengthy feasibility study that included operational reviews and community input. Such studies have been conducted at Post Offices in many locations across the country. Nationwide, there are 26,000 Post Offices that do not generate enough revenue to cover costs. However, by law (Title 39), the Postal Service cannot close a Post Office for solely economical reasons. The proximity to other Post Offices and expanded access availability are considerations.

Recognizing Career Milestones in April

Congratulations to the 74 employees who will be celebrating 2,180 service years in April! 50 YEARS: Robert Jones, Jr., Miami P&DC 45 YEARS: Willie Morris, Jr., County Line Annex; Walter J. Szary, Inverrary Branch 40 YEARS: Robert E. Farah, Coral Gables Branch; Charles W. Schuck, Jr., Pembroke Pines Branch; Larry S. Valadez , Miami P&DC 35 YEARS: Dwayne A. Chenault, Miami Beach Main Office; Susan J. Clark, Snapper Creek Branch; Gary L. Cooper, Miami P&DC; Emil J. Coppola, Jr., Deerfield Carrier Annex; Anthony R. Johnson, Fort Lauderdale Main Office Carrier Annex; Joel Lopez, South Florida District - Miami; Victor Lopez, South Florida L&DC; Juan Mendoza, Jr., Snapper Creek Branch; Larry Mills, Milam Dairy Branch; Eddrest D. Young, County Line Annex 30 YEARS: Gustavo Alberro, Olympia Heights Branch; Arthur W. Alwine, Hollywood Main Office; Charles V. Attardi, West Palm Beach P&DC; Larry J. Black, Pembroke Pines Branch; Timothy D. Braun, South Florida P&DC; Gregory L. Brown, Palms West Branch; David J. Burden, Belle Glade Post Office; Pedro F. Cevallos, Pembroke Pines Branch; Juan C. Cruz, West Palm Beach P&DC; Jany L. Dalrymple, South Florida District – Fort Lauderdale; MaryLou Downing, Haverhill Branch; Evelyn O. Eusebio-Mitchell, Miami P&DC; Don A. Favus, Everglades Branch; Eugene M. Golden, Fort Lauderdale P&DC; Harvey Gross, Lauderhill Crossroads Annex; Cynthia K. Harker, Pompano Beach Main Office; Iverta V. Johnson, Flamingo Branch; Ida E. Keeve, West Palm Beach P&DC; Kenneth R. Kempler, Sunset Branch; Karl E. Maxwell, South Florida P&DC; Paul H. McConihay, Palm Beach Main Office; Lindsey L. Nicholson, Miami ISC; Raysa M. Rodriguez, Snapper Creek Branch; David R. Smith, Boca Rio Branch 25 YEARS: Roosevelt K. Benjamin, Orange Avenue Station; Jerry D. Butler, Fort Pierce Main Office; Adalberto Cabezas, South Florida P&DC; Deborah D. Carter, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Station; Gregory V. Charlton, South Florida District - Miami; Michelle J. Cooper-Wilson, Palms West Branch; Angela M. Davis, Shenandoah Annex; Mark A. Dietrick, Hialeah Main Office; Nathaniel C. Dorsett, Miami P&DC; Raymond T. Drew, Margate Branch; Scott E. Feldman, West Palm Beach P&DC; Myrna P. Franklin, Fort Pierce Main Office; Rafael Garcia, Flagler Station; Charlie W. Haz, Miami P&DC; Thomas L. Hubbard, Atlantic Branch; David E. Kirby, South Florida L&DC; Barbara J. Levesque, Stuart Post Office; Antonio D. Lima, Fort Lauderdale P&DC; Michael J. Neuzil, Snapper Creek Branch; Eugene Northard, Fort Lauderdale P&DC; David P. Pearl, Miami P&DC; Jose R. Puig, South Florida District; Carnetta W. Rayford, South Florida District; Sharon R. Reed, Atlantic Branch; Angel R. Rodriguez, Pompano Beach Main Office; Samuel D. Rubin, Boynton Downtown Branch; Patricia Ruiz, Hialeah Carrier Annex; Lori A. Sellers, Everglades Branch; Joann M. Snider, Fort Pierce Main Office; Timothy Stead, North Miami Beach Branch; Tracie L. Stein, Palms Central Carrier Annex; Evelyn M. Thisler, Tropical Reef Station; Arnetha F. Wheeler, Miami P&DC; Patricia D. Wright, Quail Heights Branch

"Brothers Beckett" Now in Miami Lakes

Information Systems Specialist Paul Sirois is very proud of his son. After all, son David is the author and a performer in "Brothers Beckett" --- now appearing at the Main Street Playhouse in Miami Lakes. The play is an edgy, full-length comedy about a pair of post-collegiate brothers who can’t quite make the leap into adulthood. Living as roommates, one is an aspiring playwright and the other is jobless-by-choice. They have a workable, but rather messy, living arrangement until one brother proposes to his long-distance girlfriend. That decision threatens to upset everything! What: World premiere of “Brothers Beckett” by David Sirois Where: Alliance Theatre Lab at Main Street Playhouse, 6766 Main St, Miami Lakes When: 8 pm Thursday-Friday, 5 pm Saturday, 2 pm Sunday, through April 3 Cost: $20 (seniors $15, students $10) Info: 305-259-0418, http://www.thealliancetheatrelab/

Organizational Redesign: eCareer Workshops, Education/Development Fairs Scheduled

Organizational Redesign has the potential to effect large numbers of EAS employees in our district and across the nation. How can you best prepare? Attend an eCareer workshop to learn how to prepare your eCareer Profile. These workshops will be invaluable, should you find yourself needing to compete for a vacant EAS position.

The Learning Development and Diversity Department is hosting Education and Development Fairs. These off-the-clock activities are open to all employees throughout the district. Representatives from universities that offer discounts to our employees will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on available degree programs. Participating educational institutions will be Ashford University, DeVry University, Kaplan University, Strayer University, and the University of Phoenix. During these fairs, the Postal Service also will sponsor sessions on the following topics:

-- How to Prepare for an Interview
-- Responsible Borrowing and Money Management
-- eCareer
-- Online classroom demonstrations

Monday, March 28
Miami P&DC, 2200 NW 72 Ave, Miami
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, eCareer Workshop in Human Resources Conference Room

Tuesday, March 29
Fort Lauderdale P&DC, 1900 W Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
4:00 pm - 10:30 pm, Education & Development Fair in Cafeteria
5:30 pm, eCareer Workshop in Rm 129

Wednesday, March 30
West Palm Beach P&DC, 3200 Summit Blvd, West Palm Beach
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Education & Development Fair in Cafeteria
5:30 pm - 10:30 pm, Education & Development Fair in Cafeteria
7:30 pm, eCareer Workshop in Rm 139

Thursday, March 31
South Florida P&DC, 16000 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm, eCareer Workshop in Rm 699

Friday, April 1
South Florida P&DC, 16000 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, eCareer Workshop in Rm 699

South Florida Water Restrictions: If You're Odd, It's Wed/Sat, and If You're Even, It's Thurs/Sun

As you know, there's a water shortage in South Florida.

Doug Bass, Director of Safety, Security & Emergency Management for the South Florida Water Management District has issued the following on landscape irrigation restrictions:

1. Users conducting landscape irrigation with reclaimed water are not restricted.

2. Landscape irrigation is prohibited between the hours of 10:00am and 4:00 pm, except as otherwise provided herein.

3. Irrigation of existing landscaping shall comply with the following provisions:

a. Even addresses, installations with irrigation systems that irrigate both even and odd addresses within the same zones, such as multi-family units and homeowners' associations, and rights-of-way or other locations with no address, shall have the opportunity to accomplish necessary landscape irrigation only on Thursday and Sunday.

b. Odd addresses shall have the opportunity to accomplish necessary landscape irrigation only on Wednesday and Saturday.

Special Contributor: Mike Balcom

PMG Reacts to PRC Opinion on 5-Day Delivery

We have received the Commission’s advisory opinion on our proposal to move to a five-day delivery schedule. We have been awaiting the document and look forward to studying the views expressed by the Commissioners. Five-day delivery is an integral part of our action plan for the future.

It’s important to remember that the Postal Service came well prepared to this undertaking. Based on extensive outreach to our customers and other stakeholders, we developed an operational plan, analyzed the potential cost savings and conducted extensive market research to document customer reaction and estimate mail volume changes that could result from implementation of this plan.

Following tremendous losses in mail volumes and revenues, the Postal Service remains in the midst of a period of great financial instability. On March 30, 2010, we presented a compelling case to the PRC, reflected in the testimony of Postal experts in operations, marketing and finance, as well as a highly respected market research firm and academician. Their testimony demonstrated that the plan would effect a $3.1 billion annual saving and allow the Postal Service to continue providing excellent service in an economical and efficient manner.

The Commission’s opinion is advisory only and therefore, is not a final determination on the merits of our proposal. We remain convinced of our findings. As such, we will also continue to press our case with the Congress on this matter.

Are You Planning to Retire?

When change in the workplace is coming, it’s a good time to start preparing for the future. If you’re considering retirement and wondering whether you have the numbers to make it work, check out “eRetire” — the self-service application on LiteBlue that lets employees start the retirement process online.

With eRetire, employees within 5 years of retirement eligibility can immediately view and print an annuity estimate. Employees within 180 days of retirement eligibility also can enter a future effective date, download and print or order a retirement application package and schedule a retirement counseling session.

Employees can access eRetire in one of the following three ways:

-- On LiteBlue, go to the employee apps carousel at the center of the home page.
-- Click on the “My HR” tab at the top navigation bar of LiteBlue and then on the “Find Employee Apps” section.
-- Click on the employee apps button at the bottom of every “My HR” Page.

You’ll need your Employee ID and USPS PIN to log onto LiteBlue.

PMG Announces Redesigned Postal Service

Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe today announced a newly redesigned Postal Service, one that is better positioned for growth, reflects further alignment within the organization to achieve core business strategies and, when fully implemented, will help realize approximately $750 million of annual cost savings.

“I am confident that we have developed a strong plan that takes a key step toward a leaner and less bureaucratic structure. One that is fair to our employees and one that will meet the future needs of our customers and the mailing industry,” Donahoe said.

About 7,500 positions will be eliminated across the organization through the redesign that also includes the closing of seven district offices, and offers voluntary early retirement and limited financial incentives to those who meet specific qualifications.

The seven district offices that are closing are Columbus, Ohio; Southeast Michigan/ Troy, MI; Northern Illinois/ Carol Stream, IL; Southeast New England/ Providence, RI; Southern Georgia/ Macon, GA; Big Sky/ Montana (Billings); and Albuquerque, NM. District offices house only administrative functions and do not affect customer service, mail delivery, Post Office operations or ZIP codes. The functions of these seven districts will be assumed by district offices within close proximity.

“It’s critical that we adjust our workforce to match America’s changing communications trends as mail volumes continue to decline,” Donahoe said. “At every step and with every change, our focus remains on our customers and continuing to provide outstanding customer service.”

Today’s announcement focused on the administrative and executive corps. Additional staff reductions will occur as the Postal Service makes necessary changes to its network and retail operations. The full scope and financial impact of these personnel actions should be realized in one calendar year, by March 2012.

While cost savings will be realized, the main objective of the restructuring is to enhance and strengthen customer service and relationships. The realignment flattens the organization, enabling flexibility to more quickly adapt to changing market forces and continuing mail volume decline.

The Postal Service is streamlining operations and improving efficiencies across the organization in order to protect its ability to provide affordable, universal mail service. By modifying networks, consolidating functions and restructuring administrative and processing operations, the Postal Service is adapting to meet the evolving needs, demands and activities of its customers.

“Mail remains valuable. It is at the heart of a $900 billion industry that continues to drive commerce and the American economy,” Donahoe said. “We will continue to work with Congress and our employees to achieve the long-term, structural and legislative changes we know we need to remain a viable organization.”

Pain at the Pump is a Crude Awakening

Key West Letter Carrier Taran Edge delivers her route with a smile --- and a ride on the T-3.

As regional tensions and political uncertainty in Northern Africa and the Middle East continue to increase, so do crude oil prices and the cost of gasoline. The nationwide average for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline hit $3.54 last week, according to AAA.

To cope with pain at the pump, many Americans are able to modify their commuting and driving habits, combine multiple shopping errands into one trip and simply eliminate non-essential driving. Not so for the Postal Service.

Each day the Postal Service is committed to serving more than 150 million delivery points, along more than 230,000 routes, six days a week. To collect, transport, and dispatch the mail, the postal fleet of more than 215,000 owned vehicles logs some four million miles per day. In Fiscal Year 2010, the Postal Service’s fuel bill for all transportation — street, highway, and air — totaled $1.7 billion, for 650 million gallons of fuel.

A one-cent rise in fuel prices increases Postal Service costs by $6.5 million annually, or $540,000 a month. If gasoline prices were to rise 57 cents, from current levels to their July 2008 all-time high average of $4.11, USPS fuel costs would increase by almost $31 million per month.

Another threat posed by increasing energy costs would be the economic squeeze placed on American businesses to reduce their costs wherever possible, including use of the mail. During the recent recession, the Postal Service experienced significant declines in mail volume and revenue. The Postal Service would be negatively impacted if the U.S. economy slips significantly again due to spikes in fuel prices.

While the Postal Service continues to seek congressional approval to reduce delivery frequency to five days per week — a move expected to save about $3 billion per year — the Postal Service for years has been aggressively pursuing technologies to promote sustainability and reduce its dependency on foreign oil.

The Postal Service operates the world’s largest fleet of alternative fuel-capable vehicles — more than 40,000 — that can use fuels such as electricity, ethanol, compressed natural gas and bio-diesel. Two-ton electric vehicles have been delivering mail in New York City since 2001, and three-wheeled electric delivery vehicles are being tested in Florida, California and Arizona.

The Postal Service also is testing hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles, whose only emissions are pure water, and is working with the U.S. Department of Energy to develop prototype electric vehicles.

For more information about our alternative fuel vehicles and technologies, go to usps.com/green and the green newsroom.

District Adds eCareer Workshops 3/28 Thru 4/1

Employees may want to mark their calendars for upcoming eCareer Workshops and Education and Development Fairs scheduled in the South Florida District.

Currently, the Postal Service is creating a new structure being referred to as “Organizational Redesign,” to meet the future needs of our employees, our customers, and the mailing industry. What does this mean to your future?

Organizational Redesign has the potential to effect large numbers of EAS employees in our district and across the nation. How can you best prepare? Attend an eCareer workshop to learn how to prepare your eCareer Profile. These workshops will be invaluable, should you find yourself needing to compete for a vacant EAS position.

The Learning Development and Diversity Department is hosting Education and Development Fairs. These off-the-clock activities are open to all employees throughout the district. Representatives from universities that offer discounts to our employees will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on available degree programs. Participating educational institutions will be Ashford University, DeVry University, Kaplan University, Strayer University, and the University of Phoenix.

During these fairs, the Postal Service also will sponsor sessions on the following topics:

-- How to Prepare for an Interview
-- Responsible Borrowing and Money Management
-- eCareer
-- Online classroom demonstrations

Monday, March 28
Miami P&DC, 2200 NW 72 Ave, Miami
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, eCareer Workshop in Human Resources Conference Room

Tuesday, March 29
Fort Lauderdale P&DC, 1900 W Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
4:00 pm - 10:30 pm, Education & Development Fair in Cafeteria
5:30 pm, eCareer Workshop in Rm 129

Wednesday, March 30
West Palm Beach P&DC, 3200 Summit Blvd, West Palm Beach
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Education & Development Fair in Cafeteria
5:30 pm - 10:30 pm, Education & Development Fair in Cafeteria
7:30 pm, eCareer Workshop in Rm 139

Thursday, March 31
South Florida P&DC, 16000 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm, eCareer Workshop in Rm 699

Friday, April 1
South Florida P&DC, 16000 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, eCareer Workshop in Rm 699

Preparing for Change: Understanding a RIF

A “Reduction In Force” (RIF) process occurs when the Postal Service --- as part of reorganization similar to the one scheduled for later this week --- must demote or separate career or certain non-career employees in a competitive area.

To help employees understand how organizational change process works, including RIF, the Postal Service has prepared a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) that address the process in general terms. The FAQs address such terms as “RIF avoidance-minimization,” notification procedures and “preference eligible” employees.

To learn more about these and other terms, as well as how the organizational change process works, go to the Organizational Changes website, easily accessed from Blue and LiteBlue. In addition to Organizational Change/RIF FAQs, employees can find information on retirement — including Voluntary Early Retirement (VER) — and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Updates can and often do occur. Employees are encouraged to periodically visit the website to make sure they’re up to date on organizational change/RIF procedures as well as the other topics covered.

School Bells to Ring at District Plants

Have you thought about going back to school? If so, the South Florida District is making it easier for you to further your education.

The Learning Development and Diversity Department is hosting Education and Development Fairs in the South Florida District Plants this month. Representatives from universities that offer discounts to our employees will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on available degree programs. Participating educational institutions will be Ashford University, DeVry University, Kaplan University, Strayer University, and the University of Phoenix.

The Postal Service also will sponsor sessions on the following topics:

-- How to Prepare for an Interview
-- Responsible Borrowing and Money Management
-- eCareer
-- On-line classroom demonstrations

The Education and Development Fairs, which are off-the-clock activities, are as follows:

Wednesday, March 23, 2011
11:30 am – 6:30 pm, 9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
Miami P&DC, 2200 NW 72 Avenue, Miami

Thursday, March 24, 2011
4:00 pm – 10:30 pm
South Florida L&DC, 5500 NW 142 St, Opa-locka

Friday, March 25, 2011
4:00 pm – 10:30 pm
South Florida P&DC, 16000 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines

Tuesday, March 29, 2011
4:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Fort Lauderdale P&DC, 1900 W Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale

Wednesday, March 30, 2011
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm
West Palm Beach P&DC, 3200 Summit Blvd, West Palm Beach

For additional information and facility room location, contact Damaris Agrait, Manager, Learning Development and Diversity, at 305-470-0881.

Change is Coming ... Are You Prepared?

If you haven’t already, be sure to go online at eCareer to create or update your profile. Providing current contact information, work experience, education, training, special skills and a summary of accomplishments helps employees prepare for change within the Postal Service.

Employees can work on their profiles at their convenience — day or night — because eCareer is available 24/7 on LiteBlue. Employees need their Employee ID number and USPS PIN to log on to LiteBlue. Once on LiteBlue, employees have three options for entering eCareer:

-- Go to Employee Apps at the center of the home page.
-- Click on the “My HR” tab on the top navigation bar and then on the “Find Employee Apps” section.
-- Click on the employee apps button at the bottom of every “My HR” page.
-- Once you’re on the eCareer information page. Click on the Create a Candidate Profile link and follow the step-by-step instructions, especially the “Build Your Candidate Profile Guide” section. -- After reading the instructions, go into the app by clicking the Apply Now link and start creating your profile.
-- Once your profile is complete, keep it up to date by adding newly-acquired skills, training and capabilities. When a profile is complete, it’s easier to apply for new job opportunities as they become available.

For assistance or questions, contact the Human Resources Shared Service Center Monday through Friday, from 7 am to 8:30 pm EST at 877-477-3273, Option 5 (TDD/TYY: 866-260-7507).

Carrier's Tip Helps Inspector Nab ID Theft Ring

Pembroke Pines Letter Carrier Crescencio “Chris” Diaz knew something was wrong. Hundreds of mailpieces — all from financial institutions and each with a different name — were going to a single address on his route delivered from the Flamingo Branch. Then, he realized he was being followed by two men in a car as he delivered mail to the address.

Diaz contacted his supervisor and Postal Inspector Brian McCarthy of the Miami Division. McCarthy initiated an investigation, eventually uncovering a large and well-organized identity theft ring in South Florida.

McCarthy learned that members of the ring included a hospital emergency room registration clerk and an employee at a doctor’s office who were stealing patient information. Ring members applied for debit cards in victims’ names, and then used the cards to drain their bank accounts at ATMs throughout South Florida. The fraudulent cards were delivered through the mail.

Victim losses are mounting daily as the investigation continues. But so far, McCarthy estimates that postal customers and others have lost approximately $300,000.

McCarthy has arrested five suspects (the fifth involving a 10-block foot chase). One has already pleaded guilty and is facing up to 10 years in prison. Additional arrests are anticipated.

Postal Inspectors offer these tips to avoid ID theft:

-- Shred unwanted documents containing personal information before discarding them.
-- Review consumer credit reports annually.
-- Never give personal information over the phone or on the Internet unless you initiated the contact.

Publication 280, Identity Theft, has more information on how to avoid becoming a victim of this crime.

Phishing Scams Cast Without a Fishing Pole: Don't Fall Hook, Line and Sinker

Rising internet usage has increased the number of “phishing” scams involving crooks sending emails that claim to be from your bank, an auction site, or credit card company. A fraudulent, but legitimate-looking email contains a link insisting you click to the company's website to correct a problem with your account.

If a "credit card company" instructs you to follow a link to activate a security protection on your card, it's a fraud. If you do click on the link, you will be directed to a fake website designed to closely resemble a genuine credit card company webpage. The fake site will request details about your account which then can be harvested by the scammers running the phishing operation. The scammers gain the data they require to use the compromised card for fraudulent transactions.

You can protect yourself from internet fraud by following basic computer security tips:

-- Make sure your spam filters and antivirus software are installed and up to date.

-- Never open a file attachment you aren't expecting or that's from an unknown sender.

-- If a bank emails you and asks you to click on a link and enter your account information, don't do it. If your bank, an auction site, or another company has a real concern about your account, you'll be able to find out about it once you've directly logged on from their homepage. Make sure that you personally type the address in your browser. You also can call your bank's customer service hotline.

For additional information on internet and other frauds, visit the U.S. Postal Inspection Service website at https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/.

Mail Lifts Troop Morale

L to R: Miami ISC APO Clerks, Emma Munez, Leonardo Lopez, and Albert Concepcion and Senior Chief Mario Barco and Master Sergeant Nelson Martinez. Photo: June Durant

A New York Times ongoing “Year at War” series recently included a segment touting mail’s role as a morale booster for American service members deployed in Afghanistan. The segment includes a video and article of soldiers in the 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry, who say receiving a letter or care package at the war front provides an emotional benefit.

“It feels like Christmas,” says Pvt. Brianna Smith.

Click here to read the article and view a video of soldier interviews.

Preparing for Change: What's in Your eOPF?

Why is it important to make sure your electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) is up to date? Because eOPF documents are your federal work history. It’s where the Postal Service maintains your federal and military service records.

When preparing for upcoming organizational change, consider reviewing your eOPF to double check your service records for accuracy. Knowing the eOPF accurately reflects your postal, federal and military service can give you peace of mind when change takes place.

Check your eOPF by logging on to LiteBlue from your home computer — you can’t access eOPF from a postal workstation. Choosing “eOPF” from the Employee Apps – Quick Links section at the center of the LiteBlue home page will take you to the eOPF website.

Frequently Asked Questions about eOPF are available in the headings at the top of the page. After logging in using your Employee ID and USPS PIN, you’ll see a column labeled “Form ID,” a description of each form or document in the eOPF, and an effective date. You can then view and print out each document in the eOPF.

It’s recommended that you review your federal and military service and check if it’s correct. You also can check your Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Designation of Beneficiary and any other Designation of Beneficiary forms on file and make corrections if warranted. Beneficiary Forms are available on LiteBlue if you need to designate a beneficiary or make changes in current designations.

You can contact the Human Resources Shared Service Center at 877-477-3273, Option 5 (TDD/TYY: 866-260-7507) from 7:00 am to 8:30 pm Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. For technical assistance, call the IT Help Desk at 800-877-7435.

March is Women's History Month

A 1944 photograph of Jeanette Lee, the first female letter carrier in Chicago, IL, courtesy of National Postal Museum, Smithsonian Institution.

March is National Women’s History Month — a celebration of women’s contributions to the nation’s culture, history and society.

Approximately 139 million workers make up the civilian workforce in America, and 53 percent are women. More than 1.8 million women serve in America’s armed forces and 911,285 women-owned employer firms employed 7.6 million persons generating $1 trillion in revenue.

In 1960, 104 women letter carriers worked for the Postal Service. By 1983, the number had grown to 8,000 — 4 percent of the total number of letter carriers employed by USPS. By 2007, 59,700 women were working as letter carriers and 36,600 as rural carriers, representing 40 percent of the carrier workforce. The percentage of women in the postal workforce has grown steadily over the years.

The Postal Service’s workforce today includes more than 234,000 women. Today’s Postal Service also parallels the national growth of women in management roles. Approximately 30

percent of the Postal Service’s executives are women.

The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum website has a series of virtual exhibits showcasing women celebrated on American stamps and online information about the role of women in the history of America’s postal system. Click here to view these exhibits. Also, click here to read an article about the role of women letter carriers.

Who Ya Gonna Call? 1-888-363-7462

There are many types of emergencies. But there’s only one source of information on work schedule and reporting time changes, facility openings and closings, and other workplace announcements due to an emergency situation. To check your work schedule and/or status of your facility in an emergency situation (including before, during, and after a tropical storm or a hurricane):

USPS National Employee Emergency Hotline at 888-363-7462

ONLY in case of a natural disaster requiring you to leave your home, city, or state … report your location, physical condition, and contact information to:

USPS Emergency Notification Line at 866-666-5349

Please DO NOT call this number for information on your work schedule/facility status.

Preparing for Change: eCareer Workshops

America’s shift to digital communications, coupled with the dramatic drop in mail volume, make it imperative that the Postal Service continue its evolution as a forward-thinking, fast-acting company capable of providing quality products and services for customers.

Currently, the Postal Service is creating a new structure being referred to as “Organizational Redesign,” to meet the future needs of our employees, our customers, and the mailing industry. What does this mean to your future?

Organizational Redesign has the potential to effect large numbers of EAS employees in our district and across the nation. How can you best prepare? Attend an eCareer workshop to learn how to prepare your eCareer Profile. These workshops will be invaluable, should you find yourself needing to compete for a vacant EAS position. Here’s a list of upcoming off-the-clock eCareer workshops:

TUESDAY, MARCH 15, 5 pm and 8 pm
Miami P&DC Human Resources Conference Room
2200 NW 72 Ave, Miami

TUESDAY, MARCH 15, 5 pm and 8 pm
West Palm Beach P&DC, Room 139
3200 Summit Blvd, West Palm Beach

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, 7 pm
South Florida P&DC, Room 699
16000 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines

THURSDAY, MARCH 17, 7 pm
Fort Lauderdale P&DC, Room 110
1900 W Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale

Preparing for Change: VERA Rules of the Road

So what’s a VERA?

A “voluntary early retirement authority” (VERA) temporarily lowers age and service requirements for retirement. It’s an administrative tool that the Postal Service has used in the past as part of an overall redesign or restructuring.

The Postal Service must request approval for a VERA from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) before making an offer of early retirement to its employees. OPM approval also will include a period of time during which the option will remain available.

Employees covered by the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or the Federal Employee Retirement System are eligible for voluntary early retirement if they are at least 50 years of age with 20 years or more of service, or any age with at least 25 years of service. A minimum of five years must be creditable civilian — not military — service. Employees may use their time in the military to meet the balance of service required for eligibility.

CSRS employees must have been employed under CSRS for at least one of the last two years, but the service need not be continuous. Eligibility criteria for all employees must be met by the VERA retirement effective date.

If the Postal Service announces a voluntary early retirement (VER), and if your position is covered in the group receiving the offer and you meet eligibility requirements, a VERA Offer Letter and Annuity Estimate will be mailed to your address of record. To receive notifications in a timely fashion, make sure that the Postal Service has your current mailing address on file. You can change or update your address by clicking on “Change of Address” in the Employee Apps - Quick Links section at the center of the LiteBlue home page.

VERA-eligible employees who decide to accept an early retirement offer can apply by completing and submitting the required documents by the deadline specified in the Offer Letter. Eligible employees who decide not to accept the offer don’t have to do anything.

Spring Forward One Hour on Sun, March 13

It’s almost time to “spring forward.” Remember to set ahead your clocks by one hour at 2 am on Sunday, March 13.

One of the biggest reasons we change our clocks to Daylight Saving Time (DST) is that it reportedly saves electricity. In general, energy use and the demand for electricity for lighting our homes is directly connected to when we go to bed and when we get up. Bedtime for most of us is late evening through the year. When we go to bed, we turn off the lights and TV.

In the average home, 25 percent of all the electricity we use is for lighting and small appliances, such as TVs, VCRs, DVD players, and stereos. A good percentage of energy consumed by lighting and appliances occurs in the evening when families are home. By moving the clock ahead one hour, we can cut the amount of electricity we consume each day.

Daylight Saving Time "makes" the sun "set" one hour later and therefore reduces the period between sunset and bedtime by one hour. This means that less electricity would be used for lighting and appliances late in the day. We may use a bit more electricity in the morning because it is darker when we rise, but that usually is offset by the energy savings in the evening.

We also use less electricity because we are home fewer hours during the "longer" days of spring and summer. Most people plan outdoor activities in the extra daylight hours. When we are not at home, there’s no one to turn on the appliances and lights. While the amounts of electricity saved per household are small ... added up they can be very large.In the winter, the afternoon Daylight Saving Time advantage is offset by the morning's need for more lighting. In spring and fall, the advantage is less than one hour. So, Daylight Saving Time saves energy for lighting in all seasons of the year except for the four darkest months of the year (November, December, January and February) when the afternoon advantage is offset by the need for lighting because of late sunrise.

In 2011, we’ll “fall back” by one hour on Sunday, November 6.

Miami-Dade PCC Tours FSS at SFL&DC

Recently Miami-Dade County PCC members toured FSS operations at the South Florida L&DC in Opa-locka. Miami Plant Manager Rick Suarez, FSS Coordinator Orlando De La Osa, and Logistics and Distribution Specialist Eddy Ares provided information on FSS processing to an attentive audience. Photo: Rose M. Castro


Automation revolutionized the way the Postal Service processed letter mail. Delivery Point Sequencing took it one step further — placing letter mail in the order of delivery. That same kind of technology is being applied to processing flats — large envelopes, magazines, catalogs and circulars.

Recently, Miami-Dade County PCC members toured FSS operations at the South Florida L&DC in Opa-locka.

The FSS Program allows the Postal Service to utilize sophisticated equipment to sort flat mail for letter carriers, who currently must manually sequence this mail before leaving the office on their routes. Using technology to sort flat mail into the order of delivery for letter carriers increases efficiency in the office and allow carriers to begin delivering to their customers earlier in the day.

The FSS is a self-contained, integrated system comprised of several components, including automatic high-speed feeders, a dolly induction system, carousel sorter tray stating, integrated tray converters, and a stand-alone mail prep subsystem. At the end of the first sortation, an automatic sweep occurs where all trays are returned to the feed area in correct order for the second sortation. At the end of the processing run, mail automatically is swept, placed into street trays and onto mail transport equipment for dispatch.

It takes a team of eight mail handlers and two clerks to operate one FSS machine. Two clerks feed the machine, one mail handler “grooms” the mail from first to second pass, another mail handler loads and unloads dollies of prepped flats into FSS, and six mail handlers prep flats into dollies for induction into FSS.

Scout's Honor is Barefoot Mailman Hike

Miami CRC Rose Castro and BSA Barefoot Mailman Hike Coordinator Stephen Blair pose with the scouting stamp enlargement. Photo: Patrick Nugent, Boy Scout Troop 811

On Monday, the Postal Service recognized Stephen Blair, Boy Scouts of America Barefoot Mailman Hike Coordinator, for the outstanding job he does every year putting together the hike and coordinating the special pictorial postmark that gets put on the mail the hikers carry throughout their two day journey.

Mr. Blair was presented with a framed stamp enlargement of the Scouting stamp during their round table meeting attended by leaders from the BSA Hurricane District. Miami Customer Relations Coordinator Rose Castro gave a brief history of the Barefoot Mailman, on behalf of Miami Postmaster Robert Carr, presented Mr. Blair with a stamp enlargement.

Over 3,590 pieces of First-Class Mail received the special postmark.

Contributor: Rose M. Castro

Special Delivery

Baby Lola can't yet read or write, but she understands the importance of the Postal Service and looks forward to mail delivery each day. Believe it or not, at her young age, Lola knows all about the Postal Service. This young lady's grandfather is Hialeah O-I-C Ernie Cintado ... and here's how he explained our current financial condition to his granddaughter:

"It's like this, Lola ... The Postal Service is at a tipping point due to the combined effects of the economic recession, increased use of electronic communications, and its obligations to prepay Retiree Health Benefits. Always dedicated to providing reliable, affordable, high-quality universal service, the Postal Service has developed and begun implementing a range of cost-reducing and revenue-generating initiatives. But these aren’t enough to close the financial gap between revenue and costs. For the American public to continue receiving affordable universal postal services from a self-sufficient Postal Service, these issues need to be addressed quickly and comprehensively with legal and regulatory action. Do you understand that, Lola?"

NCPW: A United Front Against Fraud

(Behind the table) L to R Hialeah Main Office Window/Distribution Clerk Marylin Betancourt, USPIS General Analyst Damaris Murphy, and Hialeah Supervisor/Customer Service Support Veronica Ortega. (In front of the table) L to R: Retail Specialist Joann White-Roberts, Sun Sentinel Reporter Linda Trischitta, and Business Service Network Representative Vivian Plather.

National Consumer Protection Week kicked off in the lobby of the South Florida Retail Unit in Pembroke Pines earlier this week.

South Florida District Manager Jeffrey A. Becker gave opening remarks. Commander Michael J. Calderin of the Broward Sheriff's Office, Bertha Mitrani, Assistant U.S. Attorney, U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of Florida, and Jeffrey Kay, Department Chief, U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of Florida, were guest speakers.

"My phone rings daily, off the hook," said Kay. "South Florida is one of the leading fraud areas in the country, and is home for every conceivable kind of fraud imaginable."

At the crime prevention event, a united front against fraud was presented by Broward Sheriff's Office, Cintas (free document shredding), Florida Office of Financial Regulation, Fort Lauderdale Police Department, Miami-Dade Police Department, Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office, U.S. Department of Justice, and U.S. Secret Service. These agencies distributed free information on identity theft and fraudulent scheme prevention.

Discount Dining Now Through March 14

You work hard for your money and deserve a break.

Why cook when you can afford to eat out? Become a discount diner! Get out of the kitchen (unless that's where you keep your computer!) and check out how you can get up to an 80% discount at many eateries. Go to http://www.restaurant.com/ to review the fine dining establishments --- many offering a $25 certificate for just $2! Remember to type "SAVE" in the checkout promo code and hit "APPLY" to get the 80% discount.

Want to save some bucks on your next vacation? Plan ahead and purchase your restaurant certificates before your car leaves the driveway!

Contributor: Mary Jane LaCentra

The Force is Still with Us!

“Star Wars” Director George Lucas with an R2-D2 collection box at Lucas Films’ Letterman Digital Arts Center in San Francisco CA. Lucas signed this box on June 28, 2007. Now the box resides at the National Postal Museum in Washington DC.

Four years ago, the Postal Service launched an out-of-the-world promotion.

In collaboration with Lucas Films, the Postal Service promoted stamps commemorating the 30th anniversary of “Star Wars” by transforming 400 collection boxes into R2-D2 look-alikes — one of the film’s most beloved characters.

The R2-D2 boxes replaced high-volume mailboxes in 200 cities nationwide on March 16, 2007.

People were excited to see the hard-working droid accept customers’ mail just like any other collection box, if only until April of 2007, when, the Postal Service began removing the collection boxes. But R2-D2’s service was far from over.

The Postal Service donated the boxes to the military. Now, the R2-D2 look-alikes are collecting mail from troops deployed around the world, from the Marine Corps Air Station in Iwakuni, Japan, to Mildenhall Air Base, England, to locations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

“They will stand guard in front of Post Offices and base exchanges, collecting mail and hopefully bringing a smile to our troops who are far away from home and serving their country,” said Lt. Col. Gordon Geison, commander of the Joint Military Postal Activity Pacific in 2007.

Excluding military bases, only a few of the boxes remained in the U.S. and none are allowed to be displayed outdoors with one exception — Roswell, NM — a town famous for its extraterrestrial connections.

“The box is located in front of the Roswell Convention and Civic Center, said Renee Roach, Roswell marketing director. “We absolutely love it.”

Another R2-D2 box is located in the National Postal Museum in Washington, DC. This box includes a plaque bearing the USPS and “Star Wars” logos and is signed by former PMG Jack Potter and George Lucas, the only box with the Star Wars director’s autograph.

Avoid Fraud, Protect ID, Shred Documents

National Consumer Protection Week is March 6-12. The U.S. Postal Service’s Office of Consumer Affairs and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service - Miami Division will host representatives from consumer groups, law enforcement, and industry associations at a free event open to the public:

Monday, March 7, 10 am – 2 pm, South Florida Retail Unit Lobby, 16000 Pines Blvd in Pembroke Pines

The official program will kick off at 10 am with opening remarks from Jeffrey A. Becker, South Florida District Manager, U.S. Postal Service, and then remarks from Tony Gomez, Assistant Inspector-In-Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service - Miami Division. Other event participants:

Commander Michael J. Calderin, Broward Sheriff's Office

Jeffrey Kay, Deputy Chief, U.S. Attorneys' Office, Southern District of Florida

Bertha Mitrani, Assistant U.S. Attorney, U.S. Attorneys’ Office, Southern District of Florida

Mike Galvin, Vice President, Public Relations, Better Business Bureau of Southeast Florida and the Caribbean

Cintas (free document shredding)

Florida Office of Financial Regulation

Fort Lauderdale Police Department

Miami-Dade Police Department

Miami-Dade State Attorneys’ Office

U.S. Postal Inspection Service - Miami Division

U.S. Postal Service

U.S. Secret Service

Wilton Manors Police Department

Event participants will distribute consumer protection literature and talk to customers who visit their display tables from 10 am to 2 pm.

During National Consumer Protection Week, representatives from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the U.S. Postal Service will distribute informational literature at several South Florida locations:

TUESDAY, MARCH 8
10 am – 1 pm, Olympia Heights Post Office, 3801 SW 117 Ave, Miami
11 am – 2 pm, Jupiter Post Office, 1095 Military Trail, Jupiter
1 pm – 4 pm, Pompano Beach Main Office, 2351 W Atlantic Blvd, Pompano Beach

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9
10 am – 1 pm, Promenade Post Office, 3690 W 18 Ave, Hialeah
11 am – 2 pm, Fort Pierce Post Office, 5000 W Midway Road, Fort Pierce

THURSDAY, MARCH 10
12 Noon – 3 pm, West Palm Beach Main Office, 3200 Summit Blvd, West Palm Beach

FRIDAY, MARCH 11
10 am – 1 pm, Fort Lauderdale Main Office, 1900 W Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
11 am – 2 pm, Jog Road Post Office, 6400 Boynton Beach Blvd, Boynton Beach
12 Noon – 3 pm, Hollywood Post Office, 1801 Polk Street, Hollywood

(Note: Employees are reminded that all NCPW events are off-the-clock activities.)

USPS vs. SSA on Miami HEAT Court April 10

Message to Chris Bosh, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade: Timeout. The U.S. Postal Service is taking over the hard court (well, at least for 30 minutes).

It's official! South Florida's top CFC performers --- the U.S. Postal Service and the Social Security Administration --- will compete in a mini-basketball game prior to the Miami HEAT vs. Boston Celtics game on Sunday, April 10! Tip off is at 3 pm at the American Airlines Arena at 601 Biscayne Blvd in Miami.

The game clock is ticking ... and so are the limited seats available. Tickets for the 300 level are going fast at $65 each! Visit the FEB website at http://www.southflorida.feb.gov/ or Ticketmaster at https://oss.ticketmaster.com/html/go.htmI?l=EN&t=heat&o=996512&g=692.

Special offer code is: sffeb

So jump on this opportunity and draft your co-workers, family, and friends to watch our players dribble, pass, and drive to the basket. It will be a slam dunk with your support!

And then watch the HEAT vs. Celtics game. Tip off at 3:30 pm.

If you have any questions, please contact Damaris Agrait, Manager, Learning Development and Diversity, at 305-470-0881.

(Watch this blog and look for Newsbreaks on the USPS basketball team.)

Latin Music Legends Debut March 16

The Latin Music Legends First-Day of Issue ceremony will be at the South by Southwest music festival in Austin, TX on Wednesday, March 16. Five legendary musicians and performers of the Latin sound whose contributions have had a lasting impact on American music --- Selena, Carlos Gardel, Carmen Miranda, Tito Puente, and Celia Cruz --- will be honored on these stamps.

Texas-born Selena Quintanilla-Perez (1971-1995) --- known to fans simply as Selena --- helped transform and popularize Tejano music by integrating techno-hip-hop beats and disco-influenced dance movements with a captivating stage presence. A Grammy recipient, the “Queen of Tejano” broke gender barriers with record sales and awards. Even after her tragic death, Selena remains an important representative of Latino culture.

A superb and evocative singer, Carlos Gardel (1890-1935) was one of the most celebrated tango artists of all time. Raised in Argentina, Gardel helped popularize the tango in the United States, Europe, and throughout Latin America through his performances and recordings. “The man with the tear in his voice” also achieved fame as one of the stars of the Spanish-language cinema.

Born in Portugal and raised in Brazil, Carmen Miranda (1909-1955) achieved fame as a samba singer before moving to New York City, where she gained instant celebrity in theater, film, and radio. The “Brazilian Bombshell” appeared in 14 Hollywood musicals and recorded more than 300 songs. Her exotic signature outfit and persona are an inexhaustible source of inspiration.

Born in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, Tito Puente (1923-2000) was a musical virtuoso popularly known as El Rey, “The King.” With dynamic solos on the timbales and orchestral arrangements that have become classics in Latin music, Puente helped bring Afro-Cuban and Caribbean sounds to mainstream audiences. He performed for more than 60 years, and his legacy includes more than 140 albums.

A dazzling performer of many genres of Afro-Caribbean music, Celia Cruz (1925-2003) had a powerful contralto voice and a joyful, charismatic personality that endeared her to fans from different nationalities and across generations. Settling in the United States following the Cuban revolution, the “Queen of Salsa” performed for more than five decades and recorded more than 50 albums.

District Wins CFC's 'Stanley Cup'

South Florida cluster members and CFC loaned executives and key workers celebrate their "Stanley Cup" win.

Thanks to postal employees’ generous contributions, the South Florida District won the Traveling Trophy Award for the 2010 Atlantic Coast Combined Federal Campaign. The Traveling Trophy, also known as the CFC’s “Stanley Cup,” is the premier award. This trophy travels from federal agency to federal agency based on award criteria that includes the winning agency exceeding its goal, the dollar amount increased from the previous year, and the increase in participation.

Special thanks to CFC Coordinator Damaris Agrait and CFC Loaned Executives Michelle Butler (Hialeah), Patricia Coney (Miami), Mahurley “Mac” Preston (West Palm Beach P&DC), Edith Naar (Human Resources Learning Development and Diversity Office), and Jennifer Thonus (Human Resources – Learning Development and Diversity Office). And also special thanks to the following official CFC key workers (and thanks to others who may have assisted at individual work units):

BELLE GLADE: Sebrina Montgomery

BOCA RATON: Leslie Baez, Annmaria Bordis, John Newton, Evelyn Price, Anthony Quintiliani, William Schopmann, James West

BOYNTON BEACH: Frances Ewing, Robert Faske, Julio More, Marianne Morrison

DEERFIELD: Bruce Clark, Sandra Garris

DELRAY BEACH: Deanna Ciaccio, Patricia Cusick, Michael Goulet-Dion, Janet Serrano

FLORIDA KEYS: Omayra Bruein, Kelly Fureby, Bill Heller

FORT LAUDERDALE CUSTOMER SERVICE: Sandra Darling Holt, Richard Dixon, Lauren Hunt, Tom Lopresti, Michael Pedro, Denise Rusello, Emilia Santos, Chandra Shields, Walter Solorzano, Ruth Soriano, Sharon Stroh, Sharon Timmerman, Carolyn Wallace, Eldon Weaver, DJ Williams, Leona Yerks

FORT LAUDERDALE P&DC: Naomi Jackson, Priscilla Thomas

FORT LAUDERDALE VMF: Sydney Charles

FORT PIERCE: James Osborne, Anne Marie Tighe

HALLANDALE: Debrann Tinder

HIALEAH: Morris Atkins, Henry Barreras, Julio Diez, Daisy Martin, Elena Martinez, Cynthia McAllister, Larry McCall, Jaime Perez, Arthur Sorey, Sr.

HOBE SOUND: Franklin Meyer

HOLLYWOOD: Tiffany Bennett, Michelle Gipson, Monica Gough, Cathy Griglen-Johnson, Mary Lopez, Dexter Mattear, Sandra Munoz, Tom Piro, Lloyd Shakes, Felecia Thomas

HOMESTEAD: Gilbert Betancourt, Rudy Lopez

INSPECTION SERVICE: Mary McCurry

JENSEN BEACH: Lyn Davis

JUPITER: Reni Echemendia, Julie Percival

LAKE WORTH: Don Brooks, David Huggins, Raeko Ilimaleota, Erik Mooney

LOXAHATCHEE: Linda Nixon-Waszak

MIAMI BEACH: Terry Boland, Yvette Brown, Tiffany Chestnut-Moss, Yolemmy Protzman

MIAMI CUSTOMER SERVICE: Ernesto Aguado, Minervino Arguelles, Gino Armand, Cal Collins, Robert Cuba, Ernie Diaz, Ceasar Duran, Ivan Figueroa, Charles Foreman, Luther Frank, Fidel Garcia, Juan Garcia, Luis Garcia, Marta Gallego, Isidor Gomez, Willie Harrell, Steve Hernandez, John Herold, Servando Iglesias, Teresa Jones, Vincent Kinloch, Ernest Knight, Maria Masson, Rick Miller, Francisco Miralles, Lino Miranda, Beverly Morris, Mary Mountain, Michael Murray, Jose Perez, Zygmunt Piotrkiewicz, Chris Powers, Dusty Rhodes, Patricia Rodoson, Aretha Sales, Dominique Simmons, Lacandice Simmons, Michael Santiago, Jeannette Triana, Marshall Townsend, Rashaunda Ware, Zelda Williams

MIAMI ISC: Mary Caldwell, Donna Demirgian, Willow Perkins

MIAMI P&DC: Louise Capone, Karrlyn Dailey, Pat Nolan, Clara Perez

OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL: Sarah Costa, Debbie Demars

OPA LOCKA/CAROL CITY: Marilyn Bell-Barnes, Fredericka Larkin-Johnson, Gloria Murray, Marilyn Ray

PALM BEACH MAIN: Patricia Hodge

PALM CITY: Neha Patel

POMPANO: Delores Brown, Donna Danz, Alan Fried, Jackie Jackson, Jim Johnson, Ira Landau,
Anthony Williams

PORT SAINT LUCIE: Charles Buchanan, Phyllis Marino, Elizabeth Zarder

SOUTH FLORIDA L&DC: Ivonne Livingston, Starr Riegler, Wanda Robinson

SOUTH FLORIDA P&DC: Wanda Harris, Kimberly Turner, Susan Viveiros

STUART: Bonnie Adams, Mary Sue Kelley

WEST PALM BEACH CUSTOMER SERVICE: John Booth, Pat Brady, Delores Brown, Carolyn Gilbert, Raven Guest, Starr Hunter, Tim Milton, Elizabeth Padilla-Crummel, Carlos Rodriguez, Sandra Shoemaker, Denise Tims, Stacie Vaughn, Fred Young

WEST PALM BEACH P&DC: Jorge Bacca, Mary Elaine Gussie, Joan Harrigan, Hobart Hill, Gail Kossie, Steffick Murrell-Barclay, Lovenia Tibby, Minnie Young

March Highlights in US Women's History Month

March 1, 1978 - Women's History Week is first observed in Sonoma County, California

March 1, 1987 - A Congressional resolution designating March as Women's History Month is passed

March 4, 1917 - Jeannette Rankin (R-MT) took her seat as the first female member of Congress

March 11, 1993 - Janet Reno is confirmed as the first woman U.S. Attorney General

March 12, 1912 - Juliette Gordon Low assembled 18 girls together in Savannah , Georgia for the first-ever Girl Scout meeting

March 13, 1986 - Susan Butcher won the first of 3 straight and 4 total Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Races in Alaska

March 17, 1910 - Camp Fire Girls is established as the first American interracial, non-sectarian organization for girls

March 20, 1852 - Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel, "Uncle Tom's Cabin," is published and becomes the best-selling book of the 19 th century

March 21, 1986 - Debi Thomas becomes first African American woman to win the World Figure Skating Championship

March 23, 1917 - Virginia Woolf establishes the Hogarth Press with her husband, Leonard Woolf

March 31, 1888 - The National Council of Women of the U.S. is organized by Susan B. Anthony, Clara Barton, Julia Ward Howe, and Sojourner Truth, among others; it is the oldest non-sectarian women's organization in U.S.

March 31, 1776 - Abigail Adams writes to her husband John who is helping to frame the Declaration of Independence: "Remember the ladies..."

March Birthdays
March 3, 1962 - Jackie Joyner-Kersee, considered the world's greatest female athlete; holds the record in the long jump (1988) and the heptathlon (1986); winner of 3 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze medals in 4 Olympic games

March 5, 1931 - Geraldyn (Jerrie) Cobb, record-setting aviator; first woman to pass qualifying exams for astronaut training, in 1959, but not allowed to train because of her gender

March 7, 1938 - Janet Guthrie, pioneering woman auto racer; first woman to compete in Indianapolis 500 (1977) and Daytona 500 (1977)

March 9, 1928 (1987) - Graciela Olivarez, Chicana activist; first woman and Latina law graduate from Notre Dame Law School; one of first two women on the board of Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund (MALDEF)

March 15, 1933 - Ruth Bader Ginsburg, second female U.S. Supreme Court justice (1993)

March 18, 1964 - Bonnie Blair, speed skater; one of the most successful Winter Olympian in U.S. history and 5 time gold medalist

March 23, 1857 (1915) - Fannie Farmer, authored famous cookbook, "The Boston Cooking-School Cookbook", and included specific ingredient measurements for the first time which would become standardized cooking measurements

March 23, 1924 (1980) - Bette Nesmith Graham, invented Liquid Paper correction fluid which became an office staple; created 2 foundations to support women's business and art

March 24, 1826 (1898) - Matilda Joslyn Gage, suffragist, women's rights and Native American rights activist, historian, founding member of the National Woman Suffrage Association

March 24, 1912 (2010) - Dorothy Height, served over 40 years as President of the National Council of Negro Women

March 25, 1934 - Gloria Steinem, women's rights activist and journalist; founding editor of Ms. Magazine; helped found National Women's Political Caucus, the Women's Action Alliance, and the Coalition of Labor Union Women

March 26, 1930 - Sandra Day O'Connor, first woman U.S. Supreme Court Justice (1981)

March 27, 1924 (1990) - Sarah Vaughan, world renown jazz singer and pianist known as the "Divine One"

March 31, 1889 (1975) - Muriel Wright, Choctaw Indian, teacher, historian, author, and editor


Contributors: Patrick R. Cowley and JoAnn Goodrich