September 2004

DISTRICT MANAGERS, CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SALES
POSTMASTERS

SUBJECT: National Stamp Collecting Month Publicity Kit

This October marks the 23rd annual National Stamp Collecting Month. This year's event - "Reach for the Sky and Collect Stamps!" - kicks off with the issuance of the Cloudscapes commemorative postage stamps. This pane of 15 stamps is based on striking photographs of various cloud formations.

The Cloudscapes dedication will take place at Blue Hill Observatory in Milton, Massachusetts, on Monday, October 4. Located just outside Boston, Blue Hill is the oldest continually-operated weather observatory in the United States. The Cloudscapes stamps will be available nationwide on Tuesday, October 5.

Thanks to alliances with The Weather Channel, the American Meteorological Society (AMS), and the National Weather Service, generating publicity for National Stamp Collecting Month can be as easy as contacting your Public Affairs and Communications representative. In fact it's likely your local television weather forecaster is an AMS member. With this in mind, our Public Affairs and Communications representatives eagerly await your call to assist you in coordinating publicity efforts.

Our Stamp Services team, working with The Weather Channel and Dr. Jacqueline Hansen, Assistant Professor of Education, Murray State University, has created an educational kit that celebrates weather and teaches students to become "weather- wise." The kit will be distributed to more than 220,000 classrooms. As supplies are limited, each Post OfficeTM will receive one copy of the educational kit.

Inside this publicity kit, you'll find the tools you need to raise awareness of National Stamp Collecting Month and the Cloudscapes stamps. Thank you for your support and for taking advantage of this exciting initiative, not to mention using this great opportunity to increase stamp collection and retail revenue. The Public Affairs and Communications team looks forward to assisting you.

Azeezaly S. Jaffer
Vice President
Public Affairs and Communications

cc: Vice Presidents, Area Operations

PUBLICITY KIT

National Stamp Collecting Month

PUBLICITY KIT

National Stamp Collecting Month

Postal ServiceTM employees can find an electronic version of the National Stamp Collecting Month (NSCM) publicity kit on the intranet at http://blue.usps.gov. Click on Public Affairs and Communications, then Postmaster's Toolkits. That electronic version makes it easy to complete the fill-in-the-blank materials included in the kit.

This year's theme - "Reach for the Sky and Collect Stamps!" - correlates to the issuance of the 15 Cloudscapes commemorative stamps, based on photographs of cloud formations.

Overview

Use the Cloudscapes stamps to get children excited about science through stamp collecting during NSCM, the Postal Service's national campaign designed to attract people of all ages to the fun and educational world of stamp collecting.

The first-day-of-issue ceremony for the Cloudscapes stamps will take place October 4 at the Blue Hill Observatory in Milton, MA, near Boston. Opened in 1885, the Observatory is the oldest continuously operating weather observatory in the United States and a benchmark for world climatology. The stamps will go on sale nationwide October 5.

The Cloudscapes stamps are expected to be very appealing to both youngsters and adults. Nine basic cloud types are pictured on this stamp pane and arranged according to altitude. The prefixes "cirro" and "alto" distinguish high- and middle-altitude clouds, respectively.

Promotion Alliances

To raise awareness about the educational value of these stamps, the Postal Service has created an alliance with The Weather Channel, the American Meteorological Society (AMS), and the National Weather Service (NWS) to publicize NSCM. Many of the nation's television weather reporters and forecasters are members of the AMS and look forward to working with you. Your Public Affairs and Communications (PA&C) representative stands ready to coordinate publicity efforts with these organizations. To minimize logistic and scheduling concerns, please refrain from contacting these organizations directly. Work through your PA&C representatives.

Cloudscapes Background

Clouds develop when moist air cools to its dew point by rising to a higher altitude or by moving over a cooler surface. Water vapor in the air then condenses in liquid or frozen form around minute particles such as pollen or dust. The shapes and altitudes of clouds, as well as the sequences in which they develop, help people forecast the weather.

In the early 19th century, Englishman Luke Howard - chemist by trade and meteorologist by avocation - created a system for classifying clouds using Latin names. He described the three most common shapes as cirrus (curl of hair), stratus (layer), and cumulus (heap). He also defined four compound cloud forms that derive from the three primary shapes, including nimbus (rain). Later scientists added terms such as humilis (small) and incus (anvil) to designate other cloud properties. The International Cloud-Atlas, first published in 1896, is based on this classification system.

Nine basic cloud types are pictured on this stamp pane and arranged according to altitude. The prefixes "cirro" and "alto" distinguish high- and middle-altitude clouds, respectively.

Below: Individual stamp backgrounds are followed by brief text on back of each stamp that identifies and describes that particular cloud type.

Top Row

Cloud type: Cirrus radiatus
Location: Blue Hill Bay, Maine
Date and Time: 1981, probably July;
possibly early evening
Photographer: ©David Rosenfeld/Photo Researchers,
Inc.

Composed of windblown ice crystals, cirrus are fibrous, often wispy clouds that appear in isolated patches or cover large areas of the sky. Cirrus radiatus appear to emerge from the horizon in parallel bands.

Cloud type: Cirrostratus fibratus
Location: northeast of Duluth, Minnesota
Date and Time: June 26, 1988; around 7:00 p.m.
Photographers: ©1988 Arjen & Jerrine Verkaik/SKYART

Relatively transparent cirrostratus fibratus clouds occur mostly in winter and often produce a halo effect around the sun or moon. Thickening cirrostratus frequently indicate the approach of a frontal system.

Cloud type: Cirrocumulus undulatus
Location: Coal Creek Canyon, Colorado
Date and Time: September 16, 1992; around noon
Photographer: ©Richard A. Keen

Cirrocumulus undulatus are patches or layers of small puffy clouds arranged in patterns. They have a rippled appearance due to wind shear and usually cover only a small portion of the sky.

Cloud type: Cumulonimbus mammatus
Location: near Barnes, Kansas
Date and Time: June 6, 1971; 8:51 p.m.
Photographer: ©David Hoadley 1977

Pouch-like cumulonimbus mammatus develop when pockets of air chilled by evaporating droplets or ice crystals sink into dry surroundings under the anvil. They usually indicate the approach or departure of a potentially severe thunderstorm.

Cloud type: Cumulonimbus incus
Location: west of Amarillo, Texas
Date and Time: April 22, 1994; around 4:00 p.m.
Photographers: ©1994 Arjen & Jerrine Verkaik/SKYART

Cumulonimbus incus, or thunderstorm clouds, form when rapid updrafts within cumulus congestus clouds rise into the upper atmosphere and spread out into mushroom-shaped anvils. Thunderstorms always produce lightning. Severe storms may produce heavy rain, large hailstones, or tornadoes.

Middle Row

Cloud type: Altocumulus stratiformis
Location: near Las Cruces, New Mexico
Date and Time: December 1988; sunset
Photographer: ©1988 Scott T. Smith

Small heaps arranged in layers or sheets, altocumulus stratiformis clouds are primarily composed of water droplets and, as depicted here, reflect glorious colors at sunset. If they become thicker during the day, a storm may be approaching.

Cloud type: Altostratus translucidus
Location: Cape May, New Jersey
Date and Time: December 26, 1988; around 3:00 p.m.
Photographer: ©Richard A. Keen

Altostratus translucidus, cloud sheets formed by the rising and cooling of large air masses, often precede advancing storm systems. A "watery" sun (or moon) may shine dimly through the thinner sections of the cloud sheet.

Cloud type: Altocumulus undulatus
Location: Rockville, Maryland
Date and Time: mid-1990s, probably May;
around 10:00 a.m.
Photographer: ©H. Michael Mogil

Resembling ripples on water, altocumulus undulatus clouds result from wind shear-wind speed or direction that changes sharply with height. They may appear as patches or cover the sky.

Cloud type: Altocumulus castellanus
Location: 40 miles east-southeast of Wichita, Kansas
Date and Time: July 3, 1992; around 11:00 a.m.
Photographers: ©1992 Arjen & Jerrine Verkaik/SKYART

Named for the turret-like protuberances in their top portions, altocumulus castellanus clouds signify unstable air in the vicinity and often indicate the potential for thunderstorms later in the day.

Cloud type: Altocumulus lenticularis
Location: near Nederland, Colorado
Date and Time: September 1998; sunset
Photographer: ©Carlye Calvin

Smooth, almost motionless altocumulus lenticularis clouds resemble lenses and may be iridescent. They often look like UFOs and form in the crests of waves that occur when strong winds cross over a mountain peak or ridge.

Bottom Row

Cloud type: Stratocumulus undulatus
Location: Muddy Bay, Labrador
Date and Time: October 5, 1977; around sunset
Photographer: ©Richard A. Keen

Stratocumulus undulatus occur when weak updrafts spread horizontally, creating a layer of shallow, puffy clouds that is blown by strong winds into wave-like formations that lie at right angles to the wind. These clouds seldom produce precipitation.

Cloud type: Stratus opacus
Location: Chittenden Reservoir, Vermont
Date and Time: October 3, 1987; 2:30 p.m.
Photographer: ©1987 Stanley David Gedzelman

Gray, featureless cloud layers that can spread over hundreds of square miles, stratus opacus, like stratocumulus, are generally composed of water droplets. Stratus clouds occasionally produce drizzle or light snow.

Cloud type: Cumulis humilis
Location: near McMinnville, Oregon
Date and Time: August, year unknown;
probably midafternoon
Photographer: John Day, Oregon Nature Photographer

Cumulus humilis - the smallest of the cumulus clouds - have flat bases and rounded tops. Usually wider than they are tall, these fair-weather clouds very rarely produce precipitation and often evaporate as the sun sets.

Cloud type: Cumulus congestus
Location: north of Douglas, Arizona
Date and Time: August 28, 2000; late afternoon,
around 5:00 p.m.
Photographer : ©2000 Arjen & Jerrine Verkaik/SKYART

Strong, buoyant updrafts of warm, moist air in an unstable atmosphere cause cumulus clouds to develop into cumulus congestus. These towering clouds can produce moderate rain or snow showers and may grow into cumulonimbus clouds.

Cloud type: Cumulonimbus with tornado
Location: near Osnabrock, North Dakota
Date and Time: July 25, 1978; around 6:00 p.m.
Photographer: ©Edi Ann Otto

Among nature's most destructive phenomena, tornadoes are rapidly spinning columns of rising air extending between the base of a cumulonimbus cloud and the ground. In extreme cases, tornado winds may exceed 250 miles an hour.

Publicity Ideas to Interest the Media

Local newspapers, radio and television stations are more likely to cover NSCM events and promotions when children play an active role, especially when highly visual and compelling activities take place. Media coverage can help interest more people in stamp collecting and generate more stamp sales. Here are ways to get a reporter's attention:

• Form an alliance with the local television station.

- Ask the local television meteorologists to conduct a live broadcast from your local Post Office when the Cloudscapes stamps go on sale.

- Ask your local meteorologist if you can present the Cloudscapes stamps as part of the daily live weather forecast segment.

- Provide the stamp sheet and ask the meteorologist to highlight one stamp each day during NSCM and link individual stamps to the weather forecast.

- Ask a television station to co-sponsor a photo contest or cloud art contest with you. The artwork could appear on the television station's website and be displayed in your Post Office.

- Invite the television meteorologist to participate in your Post Office's classroom NSCM outreach efforts.

- Contact your local science center to conduct an event.

• Involve the photographer of the stamp image in your event.

- Note that the stamp descriptions identify the locations where the clouds were photographed. If the photographer lives in your community, contact your local PA&C representative to invite the photographer to come to the local Post Office for an open house or a "meet the photographer" event at a special dedication ceremony. Invite local media, including weather forecasters, to take part.

- The photographer can use this opportunity to tell the story behind the photograph, and also offer tips on photographing clouds.

- If the cloud was photographed in your area and the photographer does not live nearby or is unavailable, contact your PA&C representative to arrange with your local media to coordinate a telephone interview with the photographer.

Stamp Education

An education kit developed for grades 3 through 6 contains lesson plans using the Cloudscapes stamps as a teaching aid. This material also promotes the fun and exciting hobby of stamp collecting.

Graphically, the NSCM education kit is a folder containing lesson plans that visually tie the cloud-theme throughout. The folder exterior features the Cloudscapes stamp pane. The lesson sheets inside have a die-cut edge representing a cloud shape. The folder's inside pocket which holds the lesson plans promotes a free offer from The Weather Channel - an education publication available online.

The kit will be distributed to the Postal Service's education database of more than 220,000 classrooms. It also will be provided to The Weather Channel's education outreach base which totals nearly 60,000 teachers and cable affiliates. Post Offices nationwide also will receive a courtesy copy of the educational kit for community outreach efforts.

Supplies are limited and additional copies will not be available. However, the kit can be downloaded and printed from www.usps.com.

Stamp Collecting Ideas

• Stage a local Cloudscapes stamps dedication ceremony, and ask local schools, youth organizations, congressional, civic and community leaders to participate.

• Encourage local elementary school groups or youth groups to tour your Post Office for a behind-the- scenes view of how stamps are canceled and mail is sorted and delivered to national and international destinations.

• Help coordinators of local after-school programs set up stamp collecting clubs. Ask a local stamp collector to set up a display of stamp collecting tools and philatelic materials, such as tongs, magnifiers, perforation gauges, albums, first day covers, and so forth. Go online to the American Philatelic Society's Web site at www.stamps.org to find local chapters and affiliates that might be willing to help.

• Begin a "Start Collecting Stamps" box. Set up a large box or fishbowl in which customers can place used stamps. Make a sign inviting anyone who wants to become a collector to take a stamp from the box.

• Set up a "Stamp Swap" bulletin board in your Post Office lobby where stamp collectors can post their wish lists, trade collecting information and announce club meetings.

Event Planning Checklist

When planning the Cloudscapes stamp events, keep the following suggestions in mind:

• Plan early.

• Contact your local PAC representative to obtain local meteorologists, TV weather forecasters, AMS or NWS chapters or other related offices and/or organizations to see if they can participate in your local Cloudscapes stamp event.

• Set a date.

• Secure participants.

• Order enlargements of the stamp image, flyers and other supplies for the event.

• Prepare a special pictorial cancellation, if applicable. (Pictorial Cancellation Announcement form on page 12.)

• Secure staging and sound equipment, if applicable.

• Plan signage, including a podium sign and banners.

• Launch a local publicity campaign using the materials in this kit.

• Draft a sequence-of-events agenda and speaker remarks.

• Plan retail opportunities (booth, bag stuffers, etc.).

• Prepare ceremony programs and invitations.

Pictorial Cancellations

A pictorial cancellation has not been produced at a national level. Post Offices planning events may design their own special pictorial cancellation. As a reminder, the Postal Service must make all unusual postmarking services widely known to collectors through advance publicity to avoid limiting the availability of these postmarks. Therefore, all pictorial cancellations must be reported to Stamp Development three weeks prior to local events. Please use the Pictorial Cancellation Announcement form on page 12 to report your use of a cancellation.

Second-Day Cancellations: Second-day cancellations are pictorial cancellations and follow the same guidelines as above. The word Station or the abbreviation STA is required somewhere in the design, since it will be a temporary station.

Stamp Enlargements and Reproductions

To purchase stamp artwork for the Cloudscapes stamps, including color prints and enlargements (a.k.a. "blow ups" and posters), contact:

VICTOR PULUPA
DODGE COLOR INC
4827 RUGBY AVE STE 100
BETHESDA MD 20814-3028

Telephone: 301-656-0025, ext. 212

Please plan ahead to allow enough time for production and shipping.

Products and Licensing

Cloudscapes postal stamp cards and a Cancellation Keepsake presenting the pane of stamps along with a first day cover are also available. Stamped cards are $9.75 and the Cancellation Keepsake is $13.60. Products are featured in the USA Philatelic catalog and can be purchased from the catalog, online at the Postal Store or by calling toll-free 800-STAMP-24.

Although the following item is not currently available among Post Offices, a unique philatelic product was created in celebration of NSCM this year - the "Cloudscapes Stamp Collecting Scrapbook." The product features a pane of Cloudscapes stamps in a delightful, soft cover book featuring stories with reference to each cloud- type, fun facts, and ideas for preserving your own cloud- related keepsake. This customized product, with stamps included, is priced at $19.95. This product is available through the USA Philatelic catalog and can be purchased online at the Postal Store, or by calling toll-free 800-STAMP-24.

Suggested Public Relations Timeline

Note: If you have questions or need assistance, please contact your Area's Public Affairs and Communications representative.

Cloudscapes Stamps Dedication Speech

The following suggested speech may be used at local ceremonies and events to support and promote the Cloudscapes stamps. Feel free to customize it to fit your local event and community.

Thank you and welcome.

[THIS MONTH/TODAY] we celebrate the hobby of stamp collecting - the most popular hobby in the world.

Here in this country, it is no different. Millions of Americans of all ages are passionate about collecting stamps. It continues to be a thriving hobby, with more and more people taking it up every year. Clearly, the sky's the limit for this exciting pastime.

That's why this year, the Postal Service's theme for National Stamp Collecting Month is "Reach for the Sky and Collect Stamps!" The theme honors the fifteen spectacular Cloudscapes stamps we're presenting today.

And, during this special month, the Postal Service likes to focus on all of our stamp collectors - those who have been collecting for years and those who are new to the hobby. Children in particular find stamp collecting a great way to learn about the world and its many wonders. That's because stamps open the door to an exciting world of history, science, geography, the arts, technology and sports. Stamps can introduce us to heads of state, peace-makers and soldiers who changed the course of history. And they can spotlight special plants and animals from the far side of the world or our own back yards.

For more than 200 years the Postal Service has been a shining example of a public service institution that the American people have come to rely on and trust.

Learning about our history and our forefathers through stamps can help us learn more about our nation and its ties to the rest of the world. Stamps can also take us back in time and help us relive important moments in the past - moments that we cherish. And, as exemplified by the Cloudscapes stamps we are dedicating here today, stamps can enrich our knowledge of the sciences.

But perhaps one of the best things about stamp collecting is that it's an affordable hobby that lasts a lifetime. There is a story behind every single stamp - stories that can take us to exotic places or allow us to meet famous people.

But in many ways, it's the U.S. commemorative stamp program - your commemorative stamp program - that best connects the Postal Service with the American people.

Since the first commemorative was issued more than 100 years ago, stamps have marked the historic milestones, the fundamental principles, and the extraordinary achievements that have made our nation great.

This month, children of all ages will participate in National Stamp Collecting Month activities around the country. This year's National Stamp Collecting Month will be the 23rd annual event since its inception in 1981.

I want to thank the out-of-town collectors for being here with us today. Many travel thousands of miles to participate in these celebrations. We thank you for your enthusiastic support of the stamp program. I'd also like to recognize our local friends and neighbors who may be considering starting this wonderful hobby. Stamp collecting can begin at any age. For the young or the young at heart, it's a hobby that delivers satisfaction for years to come.

Thanks to all of you for joining us here today.

LETTER TO EDITOR

[INSERT DATE]

[INSERT NAME, TITLE]

[INSERT NAME OF PUBLICATION]

[INSERT STREET ADDRESS]

[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]

Dear [MR./MS.] [INSERT NAME]:

Stamp collecting has long been one of the most popular hobbies in the world. At a time when so many parents are seeking activities to share with their children, many of us overlook one of the most popular and educational hobbies - stamp collecting. Collecting stamps is an interactive hobby that parents and children can work on as a team. Stamp collecting is also an activity that can be passed along to future generations.

To celebrate National Stamp Collecting Month in October, the [INSERT CITY] Post Office will be dedicating fifteen new Cloudscapes commemorative stamps in [INSERT CITY] starting Oct. 5. Throughout the month, the Postal Service will encourage people of all ages in [INSERT CITY] to start or add to their stamp collections. We will be sponsoring community events including [LIST ACTIVITIES, STARTING TIMES, LOCATIONS, PARTICIPANTS, AND PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES].

Stamp collecting is a fun, educational and inexpensive way for children to learn about any subject.

In Cloudscapes, the sky is an ever-changing, visual feast and students can learn to appreciate the sky and their surrounding environment to help them use and develop their visual/spatial intelligence.

We encourage everyone in [INSERT CITY] to join us for a fun-filled October while we celebrate National Stamp Collecting Month. We look forward to continuing to serve our wonderful community by providing top quality service.

Sincerely,

[SIGN]

[INSERT POSTMASTER'S NAME]
Postmaster
US Postal Service
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: [INSERT YOUR NAME]
[INSERT DATE] [INSERT YOUR PHONE NUMBER]
Internet: www.usps.com

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

October is National Stamp Collecting Month

Reach for the Sky and Collect Stamps!

in [INSERT CITY] starting Oct. 5

[INSERT CITY] Postmaster [INSERT NAME] invites everyone to [INSERT LOCATION] to help kick off National Stamp Collecting Month with a special dedication ceremony for the new Cloudscapes stamps.

The ceremony takes place on [INSERT DATE] from [INSERT TIME] to [INSERT TIME]. On that day children and adults will have an opportunity to discover the rewards of stamp collecting. Activities will include [DESCRIBE EVENT ACTIVITIES].

Stamp collecting is a fun, educational and inexpensive way for children to expand their minds and learn about any subject. In Cloudscapes, the sky is an ever-changing, visual wonder. Students can learn to appreciate meteorology - and become weather-wise.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: [INSERT YOUR NAME]
[INSERT DATE] [INSERT YOUR PHONE NUMBER]
Internet: www.usps.com

MEDIA ADVISORY

[Insert Post Office name] DEDICATES CLOUDSCAPES STAMPS TO LAUNCH NATIONAL STAMP COLLECTING MONTH

Event: Dedication of Cloudscapes commemorative postage stamps and celebration of October as National Stamp Collecting Month. [Change or add to this info if your event is different, but keep it short.]

Who: [List only dignitaries, key postal officials and any well-known special guests participating or attending the event.]

What: [Description of why this event is newsworthy; list any entertainment, stamp collectibles, etc.]

When: [Insert hour, day and date.]

Where: [Insert exact location of event.]

Background: This year is the 23rd anniversary of National Stamp Collecting Month. The theme for 2004 is "Reach for the Sky and Collect Stamps!" in honor of the new Cloudscapes stamps going on sale nationwide October 5.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: [INSERT YOUR NAME]
[INSERT DATE] [INSERT YOUR PHONE NUMBER]
Internet: www.usps.com

SAMPLE NEWS RELEASE

"REACH FOR THE SKY AND COLLECT STAMPS!"
CLOUDSCAPES STAMPS LAUNCH NATIONAL STAMP COLLECTING MONTH
AT [Insert Name] POST OFFICE

[Use this as a guide for creating your "day-of" event news release. Use past tense and include information and activities associated with the event, etc.]

[INSERT NAME OF YOUR CITY] - The world's most popular hobby rose to greater heights today when the [INSERT NAME OF YOUR POST OFFICE] helped celebrate October as National Stamp Collecting Month by dedicating the Cloudscapes commemorative postage stamps during a ceremony at [INSERT LOCATION]. The 37-cent Cloudscapes stamps are now available to [INSERT NAME OF YOUR TOWN/COMMUNITY] customers.

[INSERT CITY] Postmaster [INSERT POSTMASTER'S NAME] dedicated the stamps as part of a salute to philately - otherwise known as stamp collecting.

"[THIS MONTH/TODAY]," said [INSERT POSTMASTER'S NAME] "we celebrate the hobby of stamp collecting - the most popular hobby in the world.

"Here in America, and in [INSERT CITY], it is no different. Millions of Americans of all ages are passionate about collecting stamps. It continues to be a thriving hobby, with more and more people taking it up every year. Clearly, the sky's the limit for this exciting pastime.

"That's why this year, the Postal Service's theme for National Stamp Collecting Month is Reach for the Sky and Collect Stamps! - it's a theme that also honors the fifteen spectacular Cloudscapes stamps we're presenting today."

Joining Postmaster [INSERT POSTMASTER'S LAST NAME] at the ceremony was [INSERT CELEBRITY OR LOCAL/AREA DIGNITARIES].

The Cloudscapes stamps are based on photographs of various cloud formations. Arranged according to altitude, nine basic cloud types are pictured on this pane of 15 stamps. The prefixes "cirro" and "alto" distinguish high- and middle-altitude clouds, respectively. Behind each stamp, on the back of the pane, is a description of the cloud, the photographer's name, and date and location where the photograph was taken.

[INSERT NOTABLE HAPPENINGS AT EVENT.]

"Stamps are fascinating for adults as well as children. They offer a lifelong educational experience and an opportunity for friends and family to share in a relaxing leisure-time activity," said Postmaster [INSERT LAST NAME]. "Stamp collecting can truly be your passport to the world."

Sparked by growing interest in recent popular stamp issues like the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial and the Art of the American Indian stamps, the 8-12 age group has become the largest participating group in National Stamp Collecting Month and is considered one of the fastest growing segments of stamp collectors in the United States.

How to Become a Stamp Collector

1. Get some stamps! Every Post Office has new stamps. Most Post Offices will have some of the latest stamps issued, including: The Art of Disney: Friendship; John Wayne; Love: Candy Hearts; Wilma Rudolph; and American Choreographers. There is also the Black Heritage series which, this year, honors Paul Robeson. It's easy to order stamps from the US Postal Service Web site at www.usps.com/shop, or call toll-free 800-STAMP-24 (800-782-6724).

Other ways to get stamps include trading with friends, asking family members or neighbors for stamps from old letters or postcards, visiting a stamp dealer, and checking stamp collecting sites on the internet. Stamp shows also are a great way to obtain stamps. People from all over the country come to stamp shows to add to their collections.

2. Organize your collection. Stamp collections often communicate the unique personality of the collector. Some collectors choose stamps from all over the world or from just one country. Others pick specific topics like animals, sports or history.

3. Protect and display your collection. Every collector has a special way of protecting stamps. For individual stamps or stamp panes, consider a stamp album or three-ring binder. Don't tape or glue stamps. Instead, slip them into specially designed plastic pages with pockets. If the album has paper pages, use stamp hinges or mounts.

Since 1775, the US Postal Service has connected friends, families, neighbors and businesses by mail. It is an independent federal agency that visits 140 million s and businesses every day and is the only service provider to deliver to every address in the nation. The Postal Service receives no taxpayer dollars for routine operations, but derives its operating revenues solely from the sale of postage, products and services. With annual revenues of more than $66 billion, it is the world's leading provider of mail and delivery services, offering some of the most affordable postage rates in the world. The Postal Service delivers more than 46 percent of the world's mail volume - some 203 billion letters, advertisements, periodicals and packages a year - and serves seven million customers each day at its 38,000 retail locations nationwide.

# # #

THANK-YOU LETTER TO LOCAL NEWSPAPER EDITOR

[INSERT DATE]

[INSERT NAME]

[INSERT EDITOR OR OTHER TITLE]

[INSERT NAME OF NEWSPAPER]

[INSERT ADDRESS]

[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]

Dear [MR./MS.] [INSERT NAME]:

On behalf of the United States Postal Service, I want to thank the citizens of [INSERT CITY NAME] for their enthusiasm and support in making yesterday's National Stamp Collecting Month celebration such a successful event for our community and for the Postal Service.

Our nation's commemorative stamp program has been developed over the past 100 years largely through the participation of the American people. Their stamp ideas and suggestions are instrumental in helping the Postal Service honor some of the greatest achievements and achievers that have made our country great.

Stamp collecting is a fun, educational and inexpensive way for children to learn about any subject. In Cloudscapes, the sky is an ever-changing, visual feast and students can learn to appreciate the sky and their surrounding environment which will help them develop and use their visual/spatial intelligence.

Again, thanks to everyone who participated in our National Stamp Collecting Month celebration.

Sincerely,

[SIGN]

[INSERT POSTMASTER'S NAME]
Postmaster
US Postal Service
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]

Participation of Public Officials

The Cloudscapes stamps issuance provides a perfect opportunity to involve elected public officials in an important and positive local event. They are likely to have a keen interest in attending the event, as it provides a chance to interact with constituents in a friendly civic setting with secured media coverage.

That said, keep in mind that this is an election year. Public relations opportunities for elected officials may intersect with fall campaigns. It's important that your event avoid the perception of partisanship. It's a good idea to check with your Postal Service Government Relations representative before inviting a federal, state or local elected official to your event. Following are simple guidelines, a suggested invitation list, and names and telephone numbers of your Government Relations contacts.

Before the Event

Coordinate with your Government Relations representative before sending a written invitation to your two US senators, your congressional representatives or your state governor. When making your invite list, be sure to include the mayor or any other local elected officials you deem appropriate. The local postmaster should sign the invitations.

Follow the written invitation with a telephone call to the elected official's scheduler within a week. You may need to call more than once.

Keep in touch with all elected officials who respond. If asked, provide updated information to the elected official's staff as it becomes available (e.g., other participants, where and when to meet, what his or her role will be, etc.). Stress that remarks should be brief and limited to the dedication of the Cloudscapes stamps.

Include the names of all participating elected officials on the official program as honored guests scheduled to appear. Mention them in all media advisories, if applicable.

Provide a courtesy copy of the program to the elected officials in advance.

After the Event

Send a written thank you to all participating public officials, expressing your appreciation.

Provide copies of any newspaper articles about the event to their offices. Though they surely will see those articles on their own, take the opportunity to remind them of the press coverage the event received.

Supply extra cachets with the special cancellation (if applicable) to elected officials, even to those who could not attend. These make great giveaways and serve as a positive reminder of the event.

Obtain and frame a photo of the elected official posing beside the stamp image and make an appointment to present it in person, if possible. A matted, well-framed photograph stands a good chance of being hung on the wall of the official's office, again serving as a positive reminder of the event.

Keep in touch with your elected officials. Good relationships are built over time.

SAMPLE INVITATION TO PUBLIC OFFICIALS

[INSERT DATE]

[INSERT NAME, TITLE]

[INSERT ORGANIZATION]

[INSERT ADDRESS]

[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]

Dear [INSERT ELECTED OFFICIAL'S TITLE] [INSERT NAME]:

Employees of the [INSERT NAME] Post Office invite you to be an honored guest at a special ceremony celebrating National Stamp Collecting Month on [INSERT DATE] at [INSERT TIME]. During that ceremony, the Postal Service will unveil the Cloudscapes commemorative stamps, which have been issued to help kick off the month.

The US Postal Service® values its role as a community leader. We believe America's commemorative stamp program gives us an opportunity to connect with our customers in a very personal and entertaining way. During our ceremony, children and adults alike will have an opportunity to discover that stamp collecting is fun, exciting and educational.

National Stamp Collecting Month has been held annually in October since 1981 with the intention of encouraging people - particularly children - to explore the hobby of stamp collecting.

At the stamp unveiling ceremony, you will be invited to say a few words about how stamps recognize many important people, places and events. We expect significant press coverage of the ceremony and a good-sized crowd, including families, school groups and civic organizations.

We hope you will join us for our stamp unveiling and special National Stamp Collecting Month celebration. Please confirm your participation by calling [INSERT NAME OF CONTACT] at [INSERT TELEPHONE NUMBER] as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

[SIGN]

[INSERT POSTMASTER'S NAME]
Postmaster
US Postal Service
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]

SAMPLE THANK-YOU LETTER TO PUBLIC OFFICIALS

[INSERT DATE]

[INSERT NAME, TITLE]

[INSERT ORGANIZATION]

[INSERT ADDRESS]

[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]

Dear [INSERT ELECTED OFFICIAL'S TITLE] [INSERT NAME]:

On behalf of the United States Postal Service®, I want to thank you for joining us during our special ceremony celebrating National Stamp Collecting Month and the unveiling of the Cloudscapes commemorative postage stamps. It was a wonderful event for [INSERT NAME OF COMMUNITY], and your participation helped make it a success.

All of us in the Postal ServiceTM are extremely proud of the role our organization has played as a community leader and in commemorating many of the people, places and events that have made our country great. The stamp unveiling ceremony was a wonderful way for us to share the hobby of stamp collecting with our friends, neighbors, children and customers here in [INSERT NAME OF COMMUNITY]. I am enclosing 10 copies of our special cancellation [IF APPLICABLE] for you to share with your constituents, as well as copies of press clippings and photographs that recorded the event [IF APPLICABLE].

I look forward to working with you on future community events. If I can be of assistance with any Postal Service matter, please contact me at [INSERT TELEPHONE NUMBER].

Sincerely,

[SIGN]

[INSERT POSTMASTER'S NAME]
Postmaster
US Postal Service
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]

Include the following Stamp Selection Criteria and Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee fact sheets with your "day-of" news release press kit. If available, also include biographies of event principals.

Stamp Subject Selection Criteria

The US Postal Service and members of the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC) have set criteria used in determining the eligibility of subjects for commemoration on US stamps and stationery. These criteria first were formulated about the time of Postal Reorganization in the early 1970s and have been refined and expanded gradually since then.

Following are the 12 major areas now guiding subject selection:

1. It is a general policy that US postage stamps and stationery primarily will feature American or American-related subjects.

2. No living person shall be honored by portrayal on US postage.

3. Commemorative stamps or Postal Service stationery items honoring individuals usually will be issued on or in conjunction with significant anniversaries of their birth, but no Postal Service item will be issued sooner than 10 years after the individual's death. The only exception to the 10-year rule is the issuance of stamps honoring deceased US presidents. They may be honored with a memorial stamp on the first birth anniversary following death.

4. Events of historical significance will be considered for commemoration only on anniversaries in multiples of 50 years.

5. Only events, persons and themes of widespread national appeal and significance will be considered for commemoration. Events, persons or themes of local or regional significance may be recognized by a philatelic or special Postal Service cancellation, which can be arranged through the local postmaster.

6. Stamps or stationery items will not be issued to honor fraternal, political, sectarian or service/charitable organizations. Stamps or stationery will not be issued to promote or advertise commercial enterprises or products. Commercial products or enterprises might be used to illustrate more general concepts related to American culture.

7. Stamps or stationery items will not be issued to honor cities, towns, municipalities, counties, primary or secondary schools, hospitals, libraries, or similar institutions. Due to the limitations placed on annual Postal Service programs and the vast number of such locales, organizations and institutions in existence, it would be difficult to single out any one for commemoration.

8. Requests for observance of statehood anniversaries will be considered for commemorative postage stamps only at intervals of 50 years from the date of the state's first entry into the Union. Requests for observance of other state-related or regional anniversaries will be considered only as subjects for Postal Service stationery, and again only at intervals of 50 years from the date of the event.

9. Stamps or stationery items will not be issued to honor religious institutions or individuals whose principal achievements are associated with religious undertakings or beliefs.

10. Stamps or Postal Service stationery items with ed values, referred to as "semi-postals," will be issued every 2 years in accordance with Public Law 106253. Semi-postals will not be considered as part of the commemorative program and separate criteria will apply.

11. Requests for commemoration of universities and other institutions of higher education will be considered only for stamped cards and only in connection with the 200th anniversaries of their founding.

12. No stamp will be considered for issuance if one treating the same subject has been issued in the past 50 years. The only exceptions to this rule are traditional themes such as national symbols and holidays.

Ideas for stamp subjects that meet the criteria may be addressed to:

CITIZENS STAMP ADVISORY COMMITTEE
C/O STAMP DEVELOPMENT
US POSTAL SERVICE
1735 N LYNN ST STE 5013
ARLINGTON VA 22209-6432

Subjects should be submitted at least 3 years in advance of the proposed date of issue to allow sufficient time for consideration and for design and production, if the subject is approved.

The selection of subjects for US postage stamps and stationery is a difficult task since only a limited number of new commemorative items can be issued annually. To help in this selection process, the postmaster general established the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee over 40 years ago. Members are appointed to the committee by the postmaster general. They reflect a wide range of educational, artistic, historical and professional expertise.

Once a subject is approved, the Postal Service relies heavily on design coordinators for the selection of artists who will execute the designs. Stamp designing is an unusual art form requiring exacting skill in portraying a subject within very small dimensions. Due to the demands of stamp design and reproduction requirements, it is our policy not to review or accept unsolicited artwork.

Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee

The US Postal Service is proud of its role in portraying the American experience to a world audience through the issuance of postage stamps and stationery.

The public suggests almost all subjects chosen to appear on US postage stamps and stationery. Each year, Americans submit proposals to the Postal Service on literally thousands of different topics, and every stamp suggestion receives equal consideration, regardless of who makes it or how it is presented, Note: Suggestions must be submitted in writing.

On behalf of the postmaster general, the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee ("CSAC" or "the Committee") evaluates the merit of all stamp proposals. Established in 1957, the committee provides the Postal Service with a "breadth of judgment and depth of experience in various areas that influence subject matter, character and beauty of postage stamps."

The committee's primary goal is to select subjects for recommendation to the postmaster general that are both interesting and educational. In addition to the Postal Service's extensive line of regular stamps, the committee recommends approximately 25 new subjects for commemorative stamps each year. The wishes and desires of all Postal Service customers influence stamp selections. A good mix of subjects, both interesting and educational, is essential to the stamps program of the US Postal Service.

The postmaster general of the US Postal Service appoints committee members, who serve at his discretion. The committee is composed of 15 members whose backgrounds reflect a wide range of educational, artistic, historical and professional expertise. All share an interest in philately and the needs of the mailing public.

The committee itself employs no staff. The Postal Service's Stamp Development group handles committee administrative matters, maintains records and responds to as many as 50,000 stamp subject and design recommendations annually.

The committee meets four times yearly in rotating locations. At the meetings, the members review all proposals received since the previous meeting. Proponents are not permitted to attend committee meetings. The members also review and provide guidance on artwork and designs for stamp subjects scheduled for issuance. The criteria established by this independent group ensure that stamp subjects stand the test of time, are consistent with public opinion and have broad national interest.

Stamp Selection Process

Stamp subject and design suggestions must meet selection criteria and submitted in writing to:

CITIZENS STAMP ADVISORY COMMITTEE
C/O STAMP DEVELOPMENT
US POSTAL SERVICE
1735 N LYNN ST STE 5013
ARLINGTON VA 22209-6432

Submit subject or design suggestions at least 3 years in advance of the proposed date of issue to allow sufficient time for consideration, design and production, if the subject is approved.

Stamp proposals must be submitted in writing to the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee (i.e., stamped card, letters or petitions, etc.) to allow everyone the same opportunity to suggest a new stamp subject or design.

After a proposal's evaluation is complete and deemed to meet selection criteria, research is done on the proposed stamp subject. The committee's agenda for its next meeting will list all new proposals received since their last meeting. The committee considers all new proposals and will either reject the new proposal or set it aside for future consideration. If set aside for future consideration, the subject is filed and presented for periodic review by the committee.

If approved for issuance, proponents of the subject or design are advised when a general announcement is made to the public. While the Postal Service relies heavily upon the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee, it has the exclusive and final authority to determine both subject matter and designs for US postage stamps and stationery.

Artwork for Stamp Designs

Once a stamp suggestion or design receives approval, the Postal Service relies heavily on design coordinators for the selection of artists who will execute the designs. Stamp designing is an unusual art form that requires exacting skill to portray a subject within very small dimensions.

UNSOLICITED ARTWORK IS NOT ACCEPTED DUE TO THE DEMANDS OF STAMP DESIGN AND REPRODUCTION REQUIREMENTS

Professional artists who wish consideration for a design assignment must request a copy of the "Stamp Design Requirements" package:

STAMP DESIGN
C/O STAMP DEVELOPMENT
US POSTAL SERVICE
1735 N LYNN ST STE 5013
ARLINGTON VA 22209-6432

US POSTAL SERVICE
NATIONAL POSTAL FACTS

Learn more about it . . .

Universal Access. Universal Service.

The same high level of service for every American regardless of geographic location. The Postal Service delivers everywhere, every day to everyone.

• Has annual operating revenue of $68.5 billion.

• Has 700,000 career employees.

• Pays $2 billion in salaries and benefits every two weeks.

• Delivers 202 billion pieces of mail a year, or five pieces per address per day to over 141 million s, businesses, and Post Office boxes. Each of our 300,000 carriers delivers about 2,300 pieces of mail a day to about 500 addresses.

• Adds 1.8 million new addresses each year.

• Redirects 3 billion pieces of First-Class Mail® to new addresses for the 17% of the nation's population that moves every year, generating over 44 million address changes.

• Delivers more than 46% of the world's mail volume to more people over a larger geographic area than any other country.

• Serves 7 million customers daily at 37,579 postal retail outlets.

• Makes stamps available on the Internet, by mail, by phone, through 32,000 vending machines and 40,000 commercial retail outlets and Automatic Teller Machines (ATMS).

We deliver to every residence and business address in the nation.

Our national delivery network gives us access to every American household and business.

• Performance for on-time local delivery of First- Class Mail for 2003 was 95%. Also, 94% of households surveyed in 2003 had a positive perception of the Postal Service, with more than two out of three rating their satisfaction as "very good" or "excellent."

• Operates a transport and delivery fleet of 213,585 vehicles driving approximately 1.15 billion miles a year.

• A one-cent fuel increase costs $8 million.

• Leases 25,987 facilities at a rental cost of $869.7 million.

• Operates 30,000 alternative-fuel vehicles (AFVs), the nation's largest fleet of AFVs, using ethanol, compressed natural gas, and electricity.

• Purchases $200 million worth of products with recycled content, including pallets and trays, stamp products, and mailing envelopes.

• Uses latest technology to improve service, increase productivity, and reduce costs.

• Leader in developing and using optical character recognition - sorting equipment reads more than 80% of the hand-written addresses on envelopes.

(Updated January 2004)

For additional information on National Postal Facts, visit the Postal Service Web site at www.usps.com/communications/organization/postalfacts.htm.

[Please use this sheet to fill in local information significant to your area.]

Local Postal Facts

Post Office:

Year Established:

Postmaster:

Annual Mail Volume:

Annual Revenue:

Total Number of Employees:

Supervisors:

Clerks:

City Letter Carriers:

Rural Letter Carriers:

Mail Handlers:

Maintenance:

Others:

Number of Delivery Routes:

Number of Delivery Stops:

Number of Post Office Boxes:

Amount of Supplies and Services Purchased From Local Businesses:

US Postal Service Area Public Affairs and Communications Managers

EARL C ARTIS JR
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
SOUTHEAST AREA
225 NORTH HUMPHREY BLVD
MEMPHIS TN 38166-0832

Telephone: 901-747-7544

SCOTT BUDNY
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
WESTERN AREA
1745 STOUT ST STE 1075
DENVER CO 80299-7500

Telephone: 303-313-5125

DEBRA HAWKINS
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
NORTHEAST AREA
6 GRIFFIN RD N
WINDSOR CT 06006-9876

Telephone: 860-285-7265

JIM MRUK
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
GREAT LAKES AREA
244 KNOLLWOOD DR 4TH FL
BLOOMINGDALE IL 60117-2208

Telephone: 630-539-6565

PAT MCGOVERN
ACTG MGR PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
NY METRO AREA
421 EIGHTH AVE RM 5114
NEW YORK NY 10199-9681

Telephone: 212-330-3167

PAUL SMITH
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
EASTERN AREA
PO BOX 40593
PHILADELPHIA PA 19197-0593

Telephone: 215-931-5054

STEPHEN SEEWOESTER
ACTG MGR PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
SOUTHWEST AREA
7800 N STEMMONS FREEWAY STE 450
DALLAS TX 75247-4220

Telephone: 214-819-8717

DON SMERALDI
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
PACIFIC AREA
7001 S CENTRAL AVE RM 364A
LOS ANGELES CA 90052-9641

Telephone: 323-586-1212

DEBORAH YACKLEY
CAPITAL METRO
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
16501 SHADY GROVE
GAITHERSBURG MD 20898-9998

Telephone: 301-548-1465

Government Relations Contacts

Alphabetical State/Representative Listing. Area code and prefix for all extensions is: 202-268-XXXX. Your Government Relations representatives are here to serve you. They can assist you in contacting and inviting elected officials. Please let them know how they can help.

- Community Relations,
Public Affairs and Communications, 9-16-04