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letter from azeezaly jaffer: 50 state quarters greetings from america national rollout.

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NOTICE - POSTMASTERS, SUPERVISORS, AND RETAIL ASSOCIATES

50 State Quarters® Greetings from America Program

State stamps and state quarters - together at last! Last year the United States Postal Service® and the United States Mint signed an agreement to jointly develop and market a number of retail products that feature two of America's most popular items - the 50 State Quarters® and the Greetings from America stamps.

What does that mean to you? When the products were first offered, you could order them only by calling a toll-free number. Now, these products are available to offer for sale at Postal Service retail locations nationwide. Post Offices can request these products through their local stamp distribution office using their normal ordering process.

Here's how it works: Each year customers will be able to purchase products packaged in one of three ways:

• A Portfolio, which features 5 state quarters and 5 corresponding state stamps displayed in protective windows.

• A State Card Collection, which features 5 state quarters and 5 corresponding Greetings from America stamps.

• An Individual State Card, which features the state quarter and corresponding stamp.

Albums for the Portfolios and State Card Collections will be available by mid-2004.

Beginning October 15, 2003, Post OfficesTM will be able to sell state cards that feature their state quarter, Greetings from America postage stamp, and information about their state for $6.99. Annual Portfolios, which contain all 5 state quarters issued in a given year and the corresponding stamp (1999, 2000, 2001, 2002), will also be available for $29.99.

Additionally, the Postal ServiceTM will sell these products through a subscription program by calling 800-STAMP-24 or as individual annual products through the Postal Service Web site at www.usps.com/shop. The subscription program is the only method through which customers can guarantee they will receive all items in the series. Customers may purchase the State Card Collection (all 5 state cards issued in a given year) for $27.99 or an Individual State Card for $6.99 through the above toll-free number.

The U.S. Mint began the 50 State Quarters program in 1999, issuing 5 quarters per year. The program will end in 2008.

When promoting these products, don't forget employees who may want to participate in this history-making event. Consider putting posters (will be available through the Retail In-Store Messaging program in October) and ordering information or forms in employee areas and on bulletin boards.

A publicity kit for this program was published in Postal Bulletin 22093 (1-9-03). The material in the kit will help you plan events in your community to promote this very special opportunity.

Background Information

On August 22, 2002, the United States Mint and the United States Postal Service signed an agreement to jointly develop and market a number of products that feature two of America's most popular collectible items - the 50 State Quarters and the Greetings from America stamps. This is the first time these two federal agencies have partnered to work on a joint, national project.

The Postal Service and the United States Mint will offer the 50 State Quarters Greetings from America Portfolio and 50 State Quarters Greetings from America State Card Collection each year (1999-2008). Individual State Cards will also be available for purchase.

The Portfolio features 5 state quarters and 5 corresponding Greetings from America stamps displayed in windows arranged in a portfolio. A protective slipcase includes Certificates of Authenticity signed by the postmaster general of the United States and the director of the United States Mint, attesting to the authenticity of the stamps and quarters.

About the size of a sports trading card, each Individual State Card features one state quarter and the corresponding state stamp displayed in protective windows. The cards are also offered as a collection - in sets of 5 for each year of the 50 State Quarters Greetings from America Program.

Product Timeline

Portfolios, State Card Collections, and Individual State Cards are currently available for the following products:

1999 Products: Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, and Connecticut

2000 Products: Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, and Virginia

2001 Products: New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Kentucky

2002 Products: Tennessee, Ohio, Louisiana, Indiana, and Mississippi

Portfolios, State Card Collections, and Individual State Cards will be available for the following products in 2004 and beyond:

2003 Products: Illinois, Alabama, Maine, Missouri, and Arkansas

2004 Products: Michigan, Florida, Texas, Iowa, and Wisconsin

2005 Products: California, Minnesota, Oregon, Kansas, and West Virginia

2006 Products: Nevada, Nebraska, Colorado, North Dakota, and South Dakota

2007 Products: Montana, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah

2008 Products: Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, Alaska, and Hawaii

Availability and Ordering Information

The following products incorporating the state and the corresponding Greetings from America stamps are now available for retail sale.

50 State Quarters Greetings from America Portfolio

Year Issued Item Number Price ($)
1999 960051 29.99
2000 960052 29.99
2001 960053 29.99
2002 960054 29.99

50 State Quarters Greetings from America State Card Collection

Year Issued Item Number Price ($)
1999 960061 27.99
2000 960062 27.99
2001 960063 27.99
2002 960064 27.99

Individual State Cards

Year Issued State Card Item Number Price ($)
1999 Connecticut 960005 6.99
1999 Delaware 960001 6.99
1999 Georgia 960004 6.99
2002 Indiana 960019 6.99
2001 Kentucky 960015 6.99
2002 Louisiana 960018 6.99
2000 Maryland 960007 6.99
2000 Massachusetts 960006 6.99
2002 Mississippi 960020 6.99
2000 New Hampshire 960009 6.99
1999 New Jersey 960003 6.99
2001 New York 960011 6.99
2001 North Carolina 960012 6.99
2002 Ohio 960017 6.99
1999 Pennsylvania 960002 6.99
Year Issued State Card Item Number Price ($)
2001 Rhode Island 960013 6.99
2000 South Carolina 960008 6.99
2002 Tennessee 960016 6.99
2001 Vermont 960014 6.99
2000 Virginia 960010 6.99

For more detailed information on these items, please consult the reference chart on page 6.

Customers can purchase these items at their local Post Offices or through a subscription program by calling 800-STAMP-24. Only through the subscription program will the entire series be guaranteed and only while supplies last. Customers can purchase annual products individually by logging on to www.usps.com/shop.

Collector albums for Portfolios and State Card Collections will also be available for purchase in mid-2004. These beautiful albums will display the products in a three-ring binder made of archival-safe materials. Included in the albums are a color-coded map with state quarter release dates, a history of the United States Mint and the United States Postal Service, and a timeline of our nation.

Subscription Program

Following enrollment, customers of the United States Postal Service 50 State Quarters Greetings from America subscription program will receive portfolios or State Card Collections featuring the series of 5 state quarters released in 1999, 2000, 2001, and 2002 along with the corresponding state stamps.

As years are completed, they will be shipped to the Stamp Fulfillment Services office for subsequent shipments to subscription customers. Each product will be shipped individually to minimize impact on subscribers' credit cards.

Customers must pay for the subscription program using a credit card. When customers join the subscription program, they will be signing up for all years of the program, not 2002 and beyond. Previous year products will be shipped simultaneously, so customers should be advised of the costs involved in joining the subscription program.

Product Descriptions

State Card Collection (Annual)

The 50 State Quarters and Greetings from America State Card Collections (3 1/2" x 21/2") will be sold as a subscription series or as an annual product. The quarters are encased in blisters that rotate so that both sides of the coin are visible. The stamps are encased in single side blisters with the state information that is printed on the back of the stamps, copied on the back of the card. The subscription program consists of 5 state cards per year. State Card Collections will be available for 1999 through 2008 at $27.99 per year. The entire series can be guaranteed only through the subscription program, and only while supplies last.

Portfolios (Annual)

Each Portfolio, issued annually, features 5 state quarters and 5 corresponding Greetings from America stamps displayed in protective windows. A slipcase includes Certificates of Authenticity signed by the postmaster general of the United States and the director of the United States Mint, attesting to the authenticity of the stamps and quarters. The portfolios will be available for 1999 through 2008 at $29.99 per year. The entire series can be guaranteed only through the subscription program, and only while supplies last.

Individual State Cards

The 50 State Quarters Greetings from America Individual State Cards (3 1/2" x 2 1/2") will be sold in their corresponding states. The quarters are encased in blisters that rotate so that both sides of the coin are visible. The stamps are encased in single side blisters with the state information that is printed on the back of the stamps, copied on the back of the card. Individual State Cards will be available for 1999 through 2008 at $6.99 per card. Refer customers who wish to buy an Individual State Card for another state to 800-STAMP-24 or usps.com/shop.

Portfolio Album

This beautiful album displays the 50 state quarters and the annual portfolios from the portfolio subscription program. The three-ring, 10-page binder is made of archival- safe materials. Each page holds one portfolio and includes information on the 5 state quarters released in a specific year and corresponding state stamp, a color-coded map with state quarter release dates, history of the United States Mint and the United States Postal Service, and a timeline of our nation. Note: This item is not yet available for retail sale. Product information will be posted in a future issue of the Postal Bulletin when it becomes available.

State Card Collection Album

This beautiful album displays the 50 state quarters and the State Card Collections from the state card subscription program. The three-ring binder is made of archival-safe materials and includes 13 pages. Each page holds four collector cards that feature the 5 state quarters released in a specific year, a color-coded map with state quarter release dates, history of the United States Mint and the United States Postal Service, and a timeline of our nation. Note: This item is not yet available for retail sale. Product information will be posted in a future issue of the Postal Bulletin when it becomes available.

Talking Points

• Postmasters can promote the products to companies for holiday gift-giving.

• Excellent incentive awards for employees and gift idea for stamp or coin collectors.

• Wonderful way for companies to express their appreciation of employees and customers.

• The collections and individual cards are terrific products to insert in gift bags for conferences or events.

• All products are part of a limited set that will not be reproduced and will appreciate in value over time.

• The Postal Service tested the retail sale of these products in Indiana, and the result was an increase in sales revenue by an average of 495 percent per accounting period.

• Getting information placed in local newspapers can generate interest and raise awareness of the program.

• If product is not available in store, items can still be purchased from 800-STAMP-24 or online at www.usps.com.

• Informational posters and subscription take-ones will be available for Post Offices through the stamp distribution office when they place their orders. Post Offices that do not wish to sell products can promote the program by referencing the take-ones or inserting them in customer bags.

- Licensing,
Public Affairs and Communications, 10-2-03

50 state quarters greetings from america program reference chart. shop online at www.usps.com/shop, call to order 800-stamp-24, or fax to 816-545-1212.

Note for Postmasters: Please ensure that you provide all customers who purchase a 50 State Quarters® Greetings from America product with an order form and inform them that the subscription program is the only way to guarantee that they will receive future products in the series.

UPDATE

USPS Official Licensed Product Manufacturers and Distributors

The following are the additions, changes, and deletions for the list of USPS® Official Licensed Product manufacturers and distributors that appeared in Postal Bulletin 22109 (8-21-03, pages 142-151). Employees may use this information to purchase products for personal use or as premiums and giveaway items. These products are not for resale.

Products for Postal ServiceTM retail stores are available through the Official Licensed Retail Product (OLRP) program. For further information regarding the OLRP program, please contact your area or district retail manager.

USPS Promotional Products

Licensee Products Where Can I Buy These? Other Sources
Add:
MODERN PROCESS COMPANY
3533 S DERENZY RD STE A
PO BOX 630
BELLAIRE MI 49615-0630
Collectibles, corporate gifts, desk accessories, embroidered apparel, golf items, awards, plush products, tote bags, portfolios, umbrellas, watches, and clocks. Web: www.modernprocess.net
Telephone: 800-622-1310
Fax: 231-533-8833
E-mail: Modern@freeway.net
For USPS promotional use only.
Delete:
CWS AWARDS
4709 23RD AVE SW
SEATTLE WA 98106-1315
Awards including jeweled pins, standard pins, medallions, lapel pins, rings, plaques, and trophies. Telephone: 206-270-0923
Fax: 206-933-9608
For USPS promotional use only.
FIF MARKETING
41 E MAIN ST STE 112
LAKE ZURICH IL 60047-3413
Corporate gifts and promotional products. Web: www.fifmarketing.com
Telephone: 847-540-0611
Fax: 847-540-0613
For USPS promotional use only.
JONATHAN GREY AND ASSOCIATES
920 CALLE NEGOCIO STE B
SAN CLEMENTE CA 92673-6207
Lapel pins, awards, teddy bears, and framed sets of advertising specialty products. Heroes of 2001 products: framed canvas reproductions, key chains, framed sets, and ornaments. Web: www.jgrey.com
Telephone: 949-498-2515
Fax: 949-298-2830
E-mail: raquel@jgrey.com
For USPS promotional use only.
MARCH COMPANY
3815 ACADEMY PKWY NE
ALBUQUERQUE NM 87109-4408
Stamp design lapel pins, key chains, and money clips. Heroes of 2001 products: lapel pins, magnets, key chains, money clips, marble paperweights, 2-D holiday ornaments, and framed pins. Web: www.marchco.com
Telephone: 800-336-2724
Fax: 505-345-0407
For USPS promotional use only.
PROFORMA CENTURY PROMOTIONS
457 FARNSWORTH CIR
BARRINGTON IL 60010-1078
Promotional products, corporate gifts, and recognition and safety awards. Web: www.proforma.com/century
Telephone: 847-639-4259
Fax: 847-639-4260
For USPS promotional use only.

USPS Corporate Apparel

Licensee Products Where Can I Buy These? Other Sources
Add:
MODERN PROCESS COMPANY
3533 S DERENZY RD STE A
PO BOX 630
BELLAIRE MI 49615-0630
Clothing accessories, embroidered apparel, screen printed apparel, and tote bags. Web: www.modernprocess.net
Telephone: 800-622-1310
Fax: 231-533-8833
E-mail: Modern@freeway.net
For USPS promotional and personal use only.
Delete:
5 STAR MARKETING
4005 W GREEN TREE RD
MILWAUKEE WI 53209-3034
Polo shirts, long-sleeved shirts, jackets, hats, and bags. Telephone: 414-351-6212
Fax: 414-351-1336
For USPS promotional and personal use only.
FIF MARKETING
41 E MAIN ST STE 112
LAKE ZURICH IL 60047-3413
Corporate gifts, promotional products, and logo apparel. Web: www.fifmarketing.com
Telephone: 847-540-0611
Fax: 847-540-0613
For USPS promotional and personal use only.
PROFORMA CENTURY PROMOTIONS
457 FARNSWORTH CIR
BARRINGTON IL 60010-1078
Logo apparel for men, women, and children. T-shirts, golf shirts, jackets, and caps. Web: www.proforma.com/century
Telephone: 847-639-4259
Fax: 847-639-4260
For USPS promotional and personal use only.

Commercial Apparel and Jewelry

Licensee Products Where Can I Buy These? Other Sources
Delete:
MALAMA PONO LTD
1401 MAULHARDT AVE
OXNARD CA 93030-7966
100% cotton T-shirts featuring the Duke Kahanamoku stamp. Telephone: 310-576-2444
Fax: 310-576-2440
blank

Toys and Games

Licensee Products Where Can I Buy These? Other Sources
Delete:
FUNKO INC
1221 MADRONA DR
SNOHOMISH WA 98290-2488
Mr. ZipTM bobble head dolls. Telephone: 425-783-3616
Fax: 425-252-2454
blank

Commercial Novelty

Licensee Products Where Can I Buy These? Other Sources
Add:
MOTION MARKETING INC
8231 W 100TH TER
OVERLAND PARK KS 66212-3403
Mechanical scales designed to weigh mail with a maximum weight of 50 pounds; digital scales designed for weighing mail with a maximum weight of 250 pounds. Telephone: 913-383-2641
Fax: 913-383-9017
AAFES, drug stores, and direct mail catalogs.
Delete:
MARCH COMPANY
3815 ACADEMY PKWY NE
ALBUQUERQUE NM 87109-4408
Stamp design lapel pins, key chains, and money clips. Heroes of 2001 products: lapel pins, magnets, key chains, money clips, marble paperweights, 2-D holiday ornaments, and framed pins. Web: www.marchco.com
Telephone: 800-336-2724
Fax: 505-345-0407
blank

- Licensing, Public Affairs and Communications, 10-2-03

promotion - special delivery. more usps uitems can be found online at http://usps.hlpgolf.com. to order or request a catalog, call 800-334-2230, fax 866-666-4525, email usps@hlpgolf.com.

promotion - stop family violence - first day of issue - october 11, 2003. choose from these exclusive products for your special event. call 800-327-1402, or visit www.ipledge.com.


Philately

2003 Commemorative Stamp Yearbook

The 2003 Commemorative Stamp Yearbook, Item 990300, soon will be available for sale at all Post OfficesTM[7]and philatelic centers, and by mail, telephone, and Internet order from Stamp Fulfillment Services.

To obtain an initial supply of the 2003 Commemorative Stamp Yearbook, Post Offices must immediately order Item 990300 from their designated stamp distribution office (SDO) using a separate PS Form 17, Stamp Requisition/Stamp Return. SDOs must not distribute the 2003 yearbook to Post Offices before October 24, 2003. All locations may place the 2003 Commemorative Stamp Yearbook on sale October 27, 2003, or as soon thereafter as initial quantities are received.

This item is a 64-page hardbound book that includes 66 commemorative stamps, with mounts, and sells for $49.95. The beautifully illustrated book contains colorful pictures and text on stamps such as Thurgood Marshall, American Filmmaking: Behind the Scenes, Old Glory, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Audrey Hepburn, Southeastern Lighthouses, and 15 other subjects celebrated on 2003 commemorative stamps. The 66 commemorative stamps have a combined postage value of $24.65.

The yearbooks and stamp packets are being shipped to SDOs separately from different suppliers.

The printing contractor for the yearbook has already completed its shipments to SDOs. Shipments are in master cartons of 15 books.

The stamp packets will be banded in bundles of 15 and shipped to SDOs in master cartons of 150 packets. Partial cartons will be used for shipments not in multiples of 150.

Minnesota Diversified Industries will ship the stamp packets to SDOs in two waves. Wave 1, consisting of approximately one-half of an SDO's designated quantity, is scheduled to begin shipment September 26, and will be completed October 15, 2003. The remaining stamp packets will be shipped in Wave 2 beginning October 20, and will be completed October 31, 2003. All SDOs must verify receipt of the quantities of stamp packets, as recorded on their PS Form 3309, Advice of Shipment/Stamp Invoice, and those actually received. SDOs should also verify that they have received equal quantities of books and stamp packets.

Offices must report all sales of Item 990300, 2003 Commemorative Stamp Yearbook, in AIC 092, Philatelic Product Sales.

For the fourth year, in partnership with HarperCollins Publishers, this book as well as the 30th edition of The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps will be available in bookstores and other retail outlets where books are purchased.

- Stamp Services,
Government Relations, 10-2-03

The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps, 30th Edition

The new 30th edition of The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps, Item 890300, is available for sale at all Post OfficesTM and philatelic centers, and by mail, telephone, and Internet order from Stamp Fulfillment Services.

To obtain the initial supply for your Post Office, immediately order Item 890300 from your designated stamp distribution office (SDO) using a separate PS Form 17, Stamp Requisition/Stamp Return. All locations may place the new edition of the guide on sale as soon as initial quantities are received.

The new 30th edition features more than 100 new illustrations, hundreds of new listings and prices, plus new features and stamp-related facts. Priced at $18.95, the 576-page guide includes lists of market-based values for all U.S. used and unused stamps and for many valuable stamp errors. In addition, the guide contains more than 2,000 full-color stamp illustrations; extensive lists of philatelic organizations, publications, and resources; and a wealth of basic stamp collecting information. These features make it a valuable tool for beginning, intermediate, and advanced collectors, and it is still one of the best bargains in the hobby.

The printing contractor for the guide shipped the books (which are accountable items) in cartons of 20 to SDOs and stamp service centers (SSCs). Installations should report any discrepancies between the quantities shown on the Advice of Shipment and those actually received by using the procedure outlined in Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, parts 436 or 446, Handling Discrepancies in Stock Received.

Promotional copies of the guide will not be distributed. You can now display the guide in your Post Office by simply removing a copy from your inventory for promotional use. Follow the procedures outlined in Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, section 428.8, Obtaining Stock for Promotions or Presentations.

Offices must report all sales of Item 890300, 30th Edition, The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps, in AIC 092, Philatelic Product Sales.

For the fourth year, in partnership with HarperCollins Publishers, this book as well as the 2003 Commemorative Stamp Yearbook will be available in bookstores and other retail outlets where books are purchased.

The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps, 29th Edition

As the 30th edition of The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps becomes available, Post Offices must withhold all remaining copies of the 29th edition (Item 880200) from sale and take the following actions:

1. Retail Outlets. Collect any copies of the 29th edition of the guide from stamp credits. Immediately return them to main stock using PS Form 17, Stamp Requisition/Stamp Return.

2. Post Offices. Consolidate all remaining copies of the 29th edition of the guide, if any, into the unit reserve stock. Prepare all 29th editions of the guide in accordance with procedures established for disposing of obsolete and redeemed stock, and submit according to local district quarterly stamp destruction or return schedules.

3. Local Office Philatelic Programs. Submit PS Form 17 to the local SDO and SSC for the number of 29th editions of the guide (Item 880200) needed for philatelic/promotional programs. You may give one or more copies to local schools, libraries, student groups, stamp clubs, and retirement s.

4. Stamp Distribution Offices. Stamp all copies of the guide used in promoting philatelic programs "NOT FOR RESALE." The SDO custodian of accountable paper must attest that each item is so stamped and prepare PS Form 3238, Stamps and Stamped Paper Destruction Certificate, endorsed "PHILATELIC PRODUCTS GIVEN TO PHILATELIC PROGRAMS." Program coordinators must acknowledge receipt of Item 880200 and be responsible for its control.

Note: The instructions for providing obsolete editions of the guide for philatelic and promotional purposes are an exception to general guidelines for destruction of accountable items, especially regarding obsolete (withdrawn from sale) items. In this instance, it is Postal Service policy not to destroy copies of the previous year's edition of the guide when they can be used for valid promotional and/or educational purposes.

Disposition of Excess Guides

Dispose of all remaining copies of the 29th edition of The Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps (Item 880200) in accordance with Handbook F-1, subchapter 45, Destroying Stamp Stock. Because disposition instructions are issued annually for past issues of the guide, your office should have only the new 30th edition in inventory after completing the above procedures. If previous editions are on hand, dispose of them immediately, in accordance with Handbook F-1, subchapter 45.

- Stamp Services,
Government Relations, 10-2-03

Purple Heart Definitive Stamp Variety - How to Order the First Day of Issue Postmark

Customers have 90 days to obtain the first day of issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office, by telephone at 800-STAMP-24, and at the Postal Store Web site at www.usps.com/shop. This variety is a six-position pane printed by Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd. (APU). They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

PURPLE HEART DEFINITIVE STAMP
POSTMASTER
500 DEMOTT LANE
SOMERSET NJ 08873-2782

After applying the first day of issue postmark, the Postal ServiceTM will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark. All orders must be postmarked by November 1, 2003.

Stamp Fulfillment Services also offers first day covers for new stamp issues and Postal Service stationery items postmarked with the official first day of issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog number and is offered in the quarterly USA Philatelic catalog. Customers may request a free catalog by telephoning 800-STAMP-24 or writing to:

INFORMATION FULFILLMENT
DEPT 6270
US POSTAL SERVICE
PO BOX 219014
KANSAS CITY MO 64121-9014

First day covers remain on sale for at least 1 year after the stamp's issuance.

- Stamp Services,
Government Relations, 10-2-03

Stamp Stock Items Withdrawn From Regular Sale and From Sale at Philatelic Centers

Effective close-of-business October 31, 2003, all Post OfficesTM, stations, branches, postal stores, vending outlets, and authorized philatelic centers must (1) withdraw the stamp stock items and products listed below and their related vending and store-prepared stamp items from sale and (2) prepare them for destruction. Submit items to destruction sites according to local established procedures, under the guidelines in Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, subchapter 45, Destroying Stamp Stock.

Do not permit sales of the stamp stock items, products, and their related vending and store-prepared stamp items listed below at retail counters and outlets after October 31, 2003, unless otherwise instructed. Items listed are also withdrawn from sale at Stamp Fulfillment Services (SFS).

Stamp issues listed below were advertised as off sale at SFS on June 30, 2003. They are removed from sale at all retail counters effective October 31, 2003. Stamp issues listed with an asterisk (*) were advertised as off sale at general counters on March 31, 2003.

Item Number Description
215461 55-cent Ribbon Star Security Window envelope FDC
Stamp Issues
452800* $3.40 Longleaf Pine Forest pane
452884* $30.60 Longleaf Pine Forest Uncut press sheet
453300 37-cent John James Audubon stamp
First Day Covers (FDC)
100362 78-cent Star First Day Cover (FDC)
103861 75-cent Nondenominational (NDN) Flag FDC
102962 84-cent George Washington Reprint FDC
214161 55-cent Ribbon Star envelope FDC
214261 55-cent Ribbon Star Window envelope FDC
214361 55-cent Ribbon Star Security envelope FDC
264161 55-cent Ribbon Star envelope FDC
264261 55-cent Ribbon Star Window envelope FDC
221161 35-cent Carlsbad Stamp card FDC
221261 60-cent Carlsbad Reply stamp card FDC
452862* $5.40 Longleaf Pine Forest FDC
453364 75-cent John James Audubon FDC
453393 $8.15 John James Audubon full pane FDC
562462 $9.90 American Photography FDC
562464 $9.90 American Photography FDC Cancelled
562961 75-cent Flag FDC
563161 75-cent NDN Flag ATM FDC
563261 75-cent NDN Flag FDC
566064 83-cent Heroes FDC
670961 75-cent Flat booklet FDC
671062 84-cent George Washington booklet FDC
671161 75-cent Flag NDN booklet FDC
671563 $3.00 Antique Toys NDN booklet FDC
778162 56-cent Toleware coil FDC
780361 75-cent Flag PSA coil FDC
780761 75-cent Flag Gum coil FDC
781161 75-cent NDN Flag PSA coil FDC
781362 78-cent Star coil FDC

Stamp coils, stamp issues, and philatelic items listed below were advertised off sale at SFS on September 30, 2003. They are removed from sale at all retail counters effective October 31, 2003.

Item Number Description
Stamp Issues
103800 37-cent NDN Flag Gum stamp
103893 $37.75 NDN Flag pane and FDC
563100 $6.66 NDN Flag ATM
563200 37-cent NDN Flag stamp
563293 $8.15 NDN Flag pane and FDC
671600 $7.40 NDN Flag PSA booklet
781100 $37 NDN Flag PSA coil
First Day Covers
106061 98-cent Coverlet Eagle FDC
108361 $1.21 Edna Ferber FDC
112161 $4.23 Jefferson Memorial Priority FDC
112261 $14.03 U.S. Capitol at Dusk FDC
216461 86-cent Graphic Eagle envelope FDC
218361 55-cent Official Mail envelope FDC
452164 75-cent Harry Houdini FDC
452364 75-cent Irving Berlin FDC
452461 75-cent Ogden Nash FDC
452563 $1.50 Neuter or Spay FDC set
453063 $3 American Bats FDC set
453161 75-cent Andy Warhol FDC
453263 $3 Women in Journalism FDC set
453461 75-cent Duke Kahanamoku FDC
453563 $3 Teddy Bear FDC set
562861 98-cent Love FDC
670463 $3 Antique Toys booklet FDC
671761 75-cent Love booklet FDC
780463 $3 Antique Toys coil FDC
780861 75-cent Official Mail coil FDC
Old First Day Covers Not Announced
101162 63-cent Bison FDC
101261 76-cent Art Deco Eagle FDC
101461 97-cent Hattie W. Caraway FDC
102162 63-cent Bison Gum FDC
102362 67-cent George Washington FDC
102962 84-cent George Washington Gum FDC
105861 78-cent Art Deco Eagle FDC
106662 61-cent Joseph Stilwell FDC
107061 98-cent Mary Breckinridge FDC
107161 65-cent Uncle Sam FDC
Item Number Description
109261 $1.21 Red Fox FDC
223961 70-cent Scenic American Landmarks Aerogramme FDC
220861 80-cent Badlands stamped card FDC
229561 55-cent Mount Rainier stamped card FDC
451863 $2.20 Winter Sports FDC
552261 69-cent Niagara Falls FDC
553061 61-cent Breast Cancer Semipostal FDC
553461 66-cent Universal Postal Union FDC
553561 76-cent Billy Mitchell FDC
553661 81-cent Grand Canyon FDC
560363 $10.80 Legends of Baseball FDC / Set of 20
561461 91-cent Nine Mile Prairie FDC
772062 67-cent George Washington coil FDC
772461 65-cent Uncle Sam Gum coil FDC
776061 54-cent City Flag PSA coil FDC
791261 56-cent Atlas Presorted FDC
Philatelic Item
999100 $4.95 USPS Stamp DecoderTM

Exceptions: Stamp coils and stamp issues listed below continue on general sale although they were advertised as off sale at SFS on June 30, 2003. They remain on sale at regular retail counters until depleted or announced in a future notice as off sale.

Item Number Description
106600 10-cent Joseph Stilwell stamp
797000 $500 Wetland Nonprofit PSA coil
797300 $150 Wetland Nonprofit PSA coil
797400 $500 Wetland Nonprofit Gum coil
796800 $150 Wetland Nonprofit Gum coil

- Stamp Services,
Government Relations, 10-2-03

Pictorial Cancellations Announcement

As a community service, the Postal ServiceTM offers pictorial cancellations to commemorate local events celebrated in communities throughout the nation. A list of events for which pictorial cancellations are authorized appears below. If available, the sponsor of the pictorial cancellation appears in italics under the date. Also provided, as space permits, are illustrations of those cancellations that were reproducible and available at press time.

People attending these local events may obtain the cancellation in person at the temporary Post OfficeTM station established there. Those who cannot attend the event, but who wish to obtain the cancellation, may submit a mail order request. Pictorial cancellations are available only for the dates indicated, and requests must be postmarked no later than 30 days following the requested pictorial cancellation date.

All requests must include a stamped envelope or postcard bearing at least the minimum First-Class Mail® postage. Items submitted for cancellation may not include postage issued after the date of the requested cancellation. Such items will be returned unserviced.

Customers wishing to obtain a cancellation should affix stamps to any envelope or postcard of their choice, address the envelope or postcard to themselves or others,insert a card of postcard thickness in envelopes for sturdiness, and tuck in the flap. Place the envelope or postcard in a larger envelope and address it to: PICTORIAL CANCELLATIONS, followed by the NAME OF THE STATION,ADDRESS, CITY, STATE, ZIP+4 CODE, exactly as listed below (using all capitals and no punctuation, except the hyphen in the ZIP+4 code).

Customers can also send stamped envelopes and postcards without addresses for cancellation, as long as they supply a larger envelope with adequate postage and their return address. After applying the pictorial cancellation, the Postal Service returns the items (with or without addresses) under addressed protective cover.

The following cancellation has been extended for 30 days.

September 18-21, 2003

Clay County Golden Delicious Festival

APPLE STATION

PO BOX 9998

CLAY WV 25043-9998

September 18-21, 2003
Postal Service
LOBEX III 2003 STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 140
LONG BEACH CA 90801-0140
September 20, 2003
Papillion Woman's Club
100 YEARS STATION
PHILATELIC WINDOW
1124 PACIFIC ST
OMAHA NE 68108-9998
September 20, 2003
TRAIL OF TEARS STATION
POSTMASTER
326 MAIN ST
WATERLOO AL 35677-9998
September 20, 2003
Covered Bridge Society of Oregon
STAYTON JORDAN COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL STATION
POSTMASTER PHILATELIC SERVICES
PO BOX 9998
STAYTON OR 97383-9998
September 20, 2003
Boones Mill Lions Club
BOONES MILL FESTIVAL STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
BOONES MILL VA 24065-9998
September 20-21, 2003
The Clinton County Fire Police Association
CRETE MEMORIAL CENTER STATION
POSTMASTER
10 MILLER ST
PLATTSBURGH NY 12901-9998
September 20-21, 2003
Southern Illinois Rural Postal Committee
SIRPEX 2003 STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
ZEIGLER IL 62999-9998
September 24, 2003
Philatelic Customers/
Postal Service

DATE MEETS ZIP STATION
C/O PHILATELIC WINDOW OFFICE
PO BOX 19001
SAN BERNARDINO CA 92423-9001

September 24, 2003
PONY EXPRESS STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
ARVIN CA 93203-9998
September 25, 2003
Philatelic Customers/
Postal Service

DATE MEETS ZIP STATION
POSTMASTER
10275 HOLE AVE
RIVERSIDE CA 92503-9998
September 26, 2003
Postal Service
OKTOBERFEST STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
LA CROSSE WI 54601-9998
September 27, 2003
The Town of Greenville
200TH ANNIVERSARY STATION
POSTMASTER
4912 ROUTE 81
GREENVILLE NY 12083-9998
September 28-October 5, 2003
West Oxford Agricultural Society
FRYEBURG FAIR STATION
POSTMASTER
91 MAIN ST
FRYEBURG ME 04037-9998
October 3, 2003
Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce
APPLEFEST STATION
POSTMASTER
1202 ELK ST
FRANKLIN PA 16323-9998
October 3, 2003
Shafer Heritage Dagen 150th Anniversary Committee
SHAFER HERITAGE DAGEN STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
SHAFER MN 55374-9998
October 3, 2003
Postal Service
BARNET FALL FOLIAGE STATION
POSTMASTER
30 MONUMENT CIR
BARNET VT 05821-9998
October 3-4, 2003
Kentucky Apple Festival
KENTUCKY APPLE FESTIVAL OF JOHNSON COUNTY STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
PAINTSVILLE KY 41240-9998
October 4, 2003
RACE FOR THE CURE STATION
MANAGER MOWS
900 EAST FAYETTE ST
BALTIMORE MD 21233-9715
October 4, 2003
Goshen Historical Society
GOSHEN OLD DAY MEMORIAL STATION
POSTMASTER
25 MILL VILLAGE RD NORTH
GOSHEN NH 03752-9998
October 4, 2003
WOODEN SHOE STATION
POSTMASTER
100 WEST MAIN ST
TEUTOPOLIS IL 62467-9998
October 4, 2003
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and Sponsors: Yoplait, Reliant Energy, Ford Motor, American Airlines, Kelloggs, New Balance, Silk Soy Milk, ADECCO, Johnson & Johnson
SUSAN G KOMEN BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION RACE FOR THE CURE STATION
WINDOW UNIT STATION MANAGER
401 FRANKLIN ST
HOUSTON TX 77201-9998
October 4, 2003
Philatelic Club of Will County Service
WILLCOPEX STATION
POSTMASTER
2000 MCDONOUGH ST
JOLIET IL 60436-9998
October 4, 2003
Dewitt Chamber of Commerce
SESQUICENTENNIAL STATION
POSTMASTER
221 WEST CROSS ST
DEWITT AR 72042-9998
October 4, 2003
Greyhound Friends of North Carolina
TENTH ANNIVERSARY STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
OAK RIDGE NC 27310-9998
October 4, 2003
DAYS GONE BY STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
THIDA AR 72165-9998
October 4, 2003
Dr. Ralph F. Davis
SPOON RIVER DRIVE STATION
POSTMASTER
301 NORTH MAIN
LEWISTOWN IL 61542-9998
October 4, 2003
Sierra Madre Pioneer Days Association
FERN LODGE CAMP POSTAL STATION
POSTMASTER
61 SOUTH BALDWIN AVE
SIERRA MADRE CA 91024-9998
October 4, 2003
Keystone Area Council, BSA
RANGER SKILLS CAMP II STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
FREDERICKSBURG PA 17026-9998
October 4, 2003
Joshua Area Chamber of Commerce
FALL SPECTACULAR STATION
POSTMASTER
306 NORTH BROADWAY ST
JOSHUA TX 76058-9998
October 4, 2003
Robert C. Graebner Chapter #17, AFDCS
AFDCS 30TH STATION
POSTMASTER
3118 WASHINGTON BLVD
ARLINGTON VA 22210-9998
October 4, 2003
The Johnsonville Volunteer Ambulance
40TH ANNIVERSARY STATION
POSTMASTER
2442 NY RTE 67
JOHNSONVILLE NY 12094-9998
October 4, 2003
Postal Service
GROTON VT FALL FOLIAGE STATION
POSTMASTER
262 SCOTT HWY
GROTON VT 05046-9998
October 4, 2003
Postal Service
RULE STATION
POSTMASTER
503 6TH ST
RULE TX 79547-9998
October 4, 2003
Heart O' Texas Fair and Rodeo
HEART O TEXAS FAIR AND RODEO STATION
POSTMASTER
430 WEST STATE HWY 6
WACO TX 76702-9998
October 4, 2003
Chamber of Commerce
MONEE POST OFFICE STATION
POSTMASTER
5410 WEST MAIN ST
MONEE IL 60449-9998
October 4-5, 2003
Postal Service
JOHNNY APPLESEED DAY STATION
POSTMASTER
6469 CLARK RD
PARADISE CA 95969-9998
October 4-5, 2003
Oregon, IL, Community
UNITED IN FREEDOM STATION
POSTMASTER
500 WASHINGTON ST
OREGON IL 61061-9998
October 4-5, 2003
Rekindle the Spirit Association
APPLE N CHEESE FESTIVAL STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
CANTON PA 17724-9998
October 4-12, 2003
Upper Adams Jaycees
NATIONAL APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL 39TH ANNIVERSARY STATION
POSTMASTER
2 HIGH ST
BIGLERVILLE PA 17307-9998
October 5, 2003
Parma Area Historical Society
STEARNS STEAD STATION
MANAGER
7801 DAY DR
PARMA OH 44129-9998
October 5, 2003
Seward Memorial Library
SEWARD MEMORIAL LIBRARY STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
SEWARD NE 68434-9998
October 5, 2003
Postal Service
150TH ANNIVERSARY STATION
POSTMASTER
521 THORN ST
SEWICKLEY PA 15143-9998
October 5, 2003
Postal Service
ST JOHNSBURY FALL FOLIAGE STATION
POSTMASTER
1153 MAIN ST
ST JOHNSBURY VT 05819-9998
October 6, 2003
NATIONAL STAMP COLLECTING MONTH STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
SOUTH BOSTON VA 24592-9998
October 8, 2003
Outer Banks Stamp Club
OUTER BANKS STAMP CLUB STATION
POSTMASTER
3841 NORTH CROATAN HWY
KITTY HAWK NC 27949-9998
October 8, 2003
Celebrating Science in School Committee, Readfield Elementary School
SCIENCE IN SCHOOL READFIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STATION
POSTMASTER
1138 MAIN ST
READFIELD ME 04355-9998
October 8, 2003
S.E.N.E. District
ALDEN PARTRIDGE STATION
POSTMASTER
40 MONTGOMERY ST
PAWTUCKET RI 02860-9998
October 8, 2003
Boy Scout Stamporee 2003 - Broad Mountain District
STAMPOREE STATION
POSTMASTER
39 EAST PINE ST
MAHANOY CITY PA 17948-9998
October 8, 2003
Istituto Italiano Di Cultura
CHARLES J BONAPARTE STATION
POSTMASTER
SPECIAL EVENTS
JAF BLDG
421 EIGHTH AVE RM 2029B
NEW YORK NY 10199-9998
October 8, 2003
AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES STATION
POSTMASTER
1140 WALL ST
LA JOLLA CA 92037-9998
October 9, 2003
CELEBRATE STAMP COLLECTING MONTH STATION
POSTMASTER
1335 JEFFERSON RD
ROCHESTER NY 14692-9998
October 9, 2003
Village of Lyndonville
VILLAGE OF LYNDONVILLE CENTENNIAL STATION
POSTMASTER
18 SOUTH MAIN ST
LYNDONVILLE NY 14098-9998
October 9-11, 2003
King Biscuit Blues Festival
KING BISCUIT BLUES FESTIVAL STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
HELENA AR 72342-9998
October 10-12, 2003
Heritage Days Committee
BLAIN STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
BLAIN PA 17006-9998
October 11, 2003
STOP FAMILY VIOLENCE STATION
POSTMASTER
550 FISHERMAN ST
OPA LOCKA FL 33054-9998
October 11, 2003
STOP FAMILY VIOLENCE STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
JACKSON WY 83002-9998
October 11, 2003
Flaming Foliage Committee
FLAMING FOLIAGE FESTIVAL STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
RENOVO PA 17764-9998
October 11, 2003
Alice Lloyd College
APPALACHIA DAY STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
PIPPA PASSES KY 41844-9998
October 11, 2003
SYRUP SOPPING STATION
POSTMASTER
6520 STAGE ROAD
LOACHAPOKA AL 36865-9998
October 11, 2003
Binney and Smith - Crayola Crayons
CRAYOLA CENTENNIAL STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
EASTON PA 18042-9998
October 11, 2003
US Fish and Wildlife Service
WHITE RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
ST CHARLES AR 72140-9998
October 11, 2003
Priddy Post Office
PIRATE COMING STATION
POSTMASTER
13420 HWY 16 NORTH
PRIDDY TX 76870-9998
October 11, 2003
Centennial Celebration Committee
BESSIE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
BESSIE OK 73622-9998
October 11, 2003
Sands Cancer Center
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS STATION
POSTMASTER
1560 STATE RTE 332
FARMINGTON NY 14425-9998
October 11, 2003
MONROE EXHIBITION STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
MONROE WI 53566-9998
October 11, 2003
Lueders/Lueders Avoca coming Committee
LUEDERS LUEDERS AVOCA COMING STATION
POSTMASTER
125 EAST MAIN ST
LUEDERS TX 79533-9998
October 11, 2003
Spencerville Covered Bridge Festival Committee
SPENCERVILLE COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL STATION
POSTMASTER
6909 STATE ROAD 1
SPENCERVILLE IN 46788-9998
October 11, 2003
Wakulla Chivaree
WAKULLA CHIVAREE STATION
POSTMASTER
8219 WOODVILLE HWY
WOODVILLE FL 32362-9998
October 11, 2003
Oneida Masonic Lodge
100 YEARS ANNIVERSARY STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
ONEIDA KY 40972-9998
October 11-12, 2003
The LaFayette Apple Festival Board of Directors
LAFAYETTE APPLE FESTIVAL STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
LAFAYETTE NY 13084-9998
October 11-12, 2003
Postal Service
WYPEX 03 STATION
POSTMASTER
4800 CONVERSE AVE
CHEYENNE WY 82001-9998
October 12, 2003
Moose Lake Historical Society
85TH FIRE COMMEMORATION STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
MOOSE LAKE MN 55767-9998
October 10-12, 2003
Fort Ligonier Days, Inc.
44TH FORT LIGONIER DAYS STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
LIGONIER PA 15658-9998
October 12, 2003
TRI-STATE STAMP CLUB SHOW STATION
POSTMASTER
350 WEST 6TH ST
DUBUQUE IA 52001-9998
October 12, 2003
Austin County Fair
AUSTIN COUNTY FAIR STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
BELLVILLE TX 77418-9998
October 13, 2003
KOSCIUSKO STATION
POSTMASTER
65 VETERANS MEMORIAL DR
KOSCIUSKO MS 39090-9998
October 14, 2003
Time Out Family Abuse Shelter
STAMP OUT FAMILY VIOLENCE STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
LADYSMITH WI 54848-9998
October 14, 2003
MADISON WI STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
MADISON WI 53703-9998
October 15, 2003
Postal Service
100TH ANNIVERSARY STATION
POSTMASTER
PO BOX 9998
BETHEL VT 05032-9998

- Stamp Services,
Government Relations, 10-2-03


Post Offices

FY2004 A/P Action Planner — Available From the Material Distribution Center

The FY2004 A/P Action Planner has been revised for use by all Postal ServiceTM employees and is now available from the Material Distribution Center (MDC). There is no automatic distribution of the planner. The individual cost is $4.9995.

You can order the planner by one of the following means:

Touch Tone Order Entry: Call 800-332-0317, Option 2.

Note: You must be registered to use TTOE. To register, call 800-332-0317, option 1, extension 2925, and follow the prompts to leave a message. (Wait 48 hours after registering before placing your first order.)

E-mail: Complete PS Form 7380, MDC Supply Requisition (manually or by using FormFlow), and send it as an attachment to the e-mail address MDC, Customer Service or to mcustome@usps.gov.

Mail: Mail a completed PS Form 7380 to the MDC to the following address:

SUPPLY REQUISITIONS
MATERIAL DISTRIBUTION CENTER
500 SW GARY ORMSBY DR
TOPEKA KS 66624-9702

The relevant ordering information for the planner is as follows:

PSIN: O101
NSN: 7610-03-000-5022
Unit of Measure: EA (each)
Minimum Order Quantity: 1
Bulk Pack Quantity: N/A
Price: $4.9995
Description: Calendar, Action Planner, FY

- Product Marketing,
Product Development, 10-2-03


Retail

What's in Store

Holidays ahead The Cat in the Hat is going to spend time in your Post OfficeTM this holiday season. Retail signage for this year's Holiday Drive Period, which begins Oct. 18, features a tie-in with the movie, Dr. Seuss's The Cat in the Hat (starring Mike Myers). Characters from the movie will be displayed on promotional point-of-purchase materials.

The key product featured during this holiday campaign is Priority Mail® items, with a secondary focus on access to USPS® products and services.

You can check out all the elements of the holiday campaign online on Marketing's Web site at http://blue.usps.gov/marketing under the "Current Ad Campaign" section.

Bundles of value The Postal ServiceTM is introducing something new this Holiday Drive Period - Priority Mail bundles. The bundles - Priority Mail service with Delivery ConfirmationTM service, Priority Mail service with Insurance service and Priority Mail service with Delivery Confirmation and Insurance services - are designed to make it easier for customers to buy extra services. And that means increased revenue for the Postal Service. The bundles will be featured on a menuboard and/or poster for easy customer reference.

Stand-up message What's 4 feet tall and dressed to sell? A new pop-up "standee" that will play a prominent promotional role at some Post Offices. This sign, which will stand alone in the queue line area, explains a sweepstakes that customers can enter exclusively at Post Offices during the holidays. Customers who use their MasterCard® to make a Priority Mail bundle purchase at any of the participating 12,000 Post Offices and who submit proofs-of-purchase will be entered in the sweepstakes. What do they win? There are 50 grand prizes of two round-trip airline tickets to anywhere in the continental United States. (Sorry, employees and their immediate families cannot enter. See official rules for details.)

MasterCard assumed the cost for the standees and is advertising this promotion in trade publications, via direct mail, and on the Internet.

Phone Santa Look for a new FIRSTCLASS PHONECARD® multipack for the Holiday Drive Period. There will be an automatic shipment to top-selling offices this month. This multipack will feature the new roller-skating Santa and reindeer stamp images. The price will be $20 for a pack of four 50-minute phone cards. If you don't receive these by early November, please call 800-711-0428 to order them.

Also, be on the lookout for new signage for a FIRSTCLASS PHONECARD promotion starting just before the new year. This promotion features a $3 discount on the 120-minute Capital Dome FIRSTCLASS PHONECARD only, from December 27, 2003, through March 31, 2004.

The FIRSTCLASS PHONECARD program strives to stay competitive, so watch for more special promotions in the future.

Lobby makeovers The Retail Lobby Makeover Contest began with the selection of two winners - but it doesn't end there. The lobby makeover team is assessing what needs to be done at the two winning offices - East Sandwich, Massachusetts, and San Carlos, California - and is putting together a makeover plan. Check out the "before" pictures and make suggestions - and enter a drawing for two $100 gift certificates (only postmasters or station/branch managers who have responsibility for lobby management may submit an entry). For more details, check the "Current Ad Campaign" section on the Marketing Web site at http://blue.usps.gov/marketing.

Feedback Send comments and questions to:

WHATS IN STORE
US POSTAL SERVICE
1735 N LYNN STREET RM 6042
ARLINGTON VA 22209-6057

Retail Coaches
Corner

Welcome to the October Corner!

This month's edition has information on Priority Mail® service and its related services and requirements.

Priority Mail Service is Special

Recent editions of "Let's Talk Retail" discussed the opportunities missed to provide customers with value-added services. Specifically, customers appreciate learning about the security they can purchase at such a reasonable price when they add Delivery ConfirmationTM or Signature ConfirmationTM services to their Priority Mail service. Other value-added services include the following: Certified MailTM, Registered MailTM, Certificate of Mailing, and Insurance services. These are priced right and customers are interested in them - spread the word.

It's important to remember the following:

Who should do this? YOU - and all other sales and service associates.

What can I do? Simply offer the special services to your customers along with a brief explanation of them. If you do this, the services actually sell themselves.

When should I do this? You should offer special services EVERY time you sell Priority Mail service.

Why should I do this? Offering special services will help satisfy your customers and generate revenue thereby helping ensure a healthy future for the Postal ServiceTM.

How should I do this? Just remember Priority Mail service should be SPECIAL - always!

Priority Mail Flat-Rate Envelopes

When mailing at the Priority Mail flat rate, you must confine the contents of the flat-rate envelope with the adhesive provided on the flap as the primary means of closure. The flap must be able to close and adhere to the envelope. Tape may be applied to reinforce the envelope provided the envelope sides are not opened then taped or the envelope is not reconstructed.

Any amount of material that can be mailed in the special Priority Mail flat-rate envelope available from the Postal Service is subject to the appropriate 2-pound rate, regardless of the weight of the material placed in the envelope.

Priority Mail packaging provided by the Postal Service must be used only for Priority Mail service, as applicable. Regardless of how the packaging is reconfigured or how markings may be obliterated, any matter mailed in Postal Service-provided Priority Mail packaging is charged the Priority Mail rate.

Please Note: The flat rate for Priority Mail service will be the 1-pound rate, and the flat rate for Express Mail service will be the 1/2-pound rate.

Priority Mail Service for Guam, APO / FPO

PS Form 2976, Customs Sender's Declaration, and 2976-A, Customs Declaration and Dispatch Note, are not just for international mail. Domestic Priority Mail items to Army Post Offices, Fleet Post Offices, and Guam (plus other U.S. territories and possessions) weighing 16 ounces or more must include either PS Form 2976 or PS Form 2976-A.

Aviation Mail Security requires a no-fly sticker on mailpieces without the proper form. This will force these Priority Mail pieces to travel by boat, making delivery slower.

Questions or comments? Submit them via e-mail to Retail Coaches Corner.

october retail employee bulletin.holiday '03 retail drive period 10/18/03-12/27/03. access the retail intranet site at http://retail.usps.gov.

october retail employee bulletin. holiday '03 retail drive period 10/18/03-12/27/03. access the retail intranet site at http://retail.usps.gov.

october retail employee bulletin. holiday '03 retail drive period 10/18/03-12/27/03. holiday fun has begun. access the retail intranet site at http://retail.usps.gov.


Supply Management

Manpower, Inc., National Contract

On April 30, 2002, Supply Management awarded a contract to Manpower, Inc. (contract number 102592-02-B-1200), for a full range of nonprofessional temporary services.

The period of performance for this contract is a base period of 2 years, with three 1-year renewal options. This contract is to be used by all Postal ServiceTM locations and is a mandatory source for purchasing nonprofessional temporary services. The Postal Service can continue to hire casual employees under the normal Postal Service hiring policy (using PS Form 50, Request for Personnel Action) or through the Manpower, Inc., Contract

Effective September 23, 2003, the Manpower, Inc., catalog will be available through eBuy, the preferred method for placing orders. You should contact your district or area eBuy representative to receive a logon ID and password. If you have access to the Postal Service Intranet, you can access the training module for eBuy (no logon ID or password is needed) as follows:

1. From Internet Explorer (V.50 or higher), go to the blue page at http://blue.usps.gov and type "ebuy" in the address line and then hit the Return key. (The direct URL is http://ebuy.usps/jsp/co/Login.jsp; note that this URL is case sensitive.)

2. Click on Catalogs, then Temporary Services, then your state name.

If you do not have access to the Intranet, you should contact the appropriate area ordering official (for field offices) or the contracting officer's representative (for Headquarters and Headquarters field offices).

Complete ordering instructions are available in Material Logistics Bulletin MLB-CO-03-017, at http://blue.usps.gov/purchase/material/mlb/03-017.doc. If you do not have access to a computer, you can obtain the MLB by calling National Materials Customer Service at 800-332-0317; select the option for "Operations and Materials Customer Service."

If you have any questions, send an e-mail message to the Temporary Services Team at the Travel, Retail, and Temporary Services Category Management Center at Denver CMC 2BTSER.

- SCM Strategies,
Supply Management, 10-2-03

Xerox Phaser 3400 Toner Cartridges

Due to the increased return rate of empty Xerox Phaser 3400 toner cartridges, Boise Cascade will now fill orders for the remanufactured cartridges within 2 days of receiving an order. This is a vast improvement over the 2-week wait periodically experienced in the past.

To help Boise Cascade keep up this fill rate, please remember to mail your empty remanufactured or Original Equipment Manufacture (OEM) Xerox Phaser 3400 toner cartridges to Boise Cascade's minority-owned remanufacturer, Cartridge Source of America Inc. (CSA). Returning cartridges is easy and free. Postage paid labels are available at http://blue.usps.gov/purchase/material/pmsc/windsor/bmrlabel.htm.

For more information on ordering remanufactured Xerox Phaser 3400 toner cartridges (item # S1106R00462R), call Boise Cascade Customer Service at 888-229-8777. If you need only a new OEM toner, cartridges are available from Boise Cascade (item #S1106R00461 and item #S1106R00462).

Remember that CSA is just one of the many minority- owned small businesses manufacturing office supplies for Boise Cascade.

- SCM Strategies,
Supply Management, 10-2-03

2004 Year Type for Hand Stamps and Canceling Machines

The Material Distribution Center (MDC) will distribute automatically the 2004 year type for hand stamps and canceling machines to all Postal ServiceTM facilities that received the 2003 year type for hand stamps and canceling machines. The MDC is notifying each of the affected Postal Service facilities of this distribution via preaddressed postcard.

If your facility needs a different quantity or a different 2004 year type, identify your requirements on the postcard and mail it to the MDC. If no changes are needed, do not mail the postcard.

If your facility needs the 2004 year type for hand stamp or canceling machines but has not received the postcard notification by October 21, 2003, contact the MDC (800-332-0317, option 4) no later than October 28, 2003. Be prepared to give the customer service representative the following information:

• The PSIN for the item needed.

• The quantity needed.

• The FEDSTRIP number for the ordering facility.

The MDC will ship the year type no later than December 16, 2003. Please allow 10 to 14 days for delivery. We will not accept any orders for the 2004 year type until after the annual distribution of the 2004 year type has been made, so orders submitted for the 2004 year type between now and October 17, 2003, will be processed for the 2003 year type.

To determine the proper year type for your canceling machine, check the model number on the machine nameplate. (Use Publication 247, USPS Supply and Equipment Catalog, Exhibit 15, as a guide.)

PSIN Item NSN
O76E Models D, K, and G new style canceling machines using 77, 225, and 218-A die hubs 7520-01-363-9283
O103HD2 Models HD-2 canceling machines 7490-00-920-9277
O133E Model Flier and M canceling machines using 1207 die hubs 7490-00-996-3084
O217E Model G canceling machines using 218 die hubs 7520-01-363-9279
O691G Model Flier and M canceling machines using 1207-G die hubs 7520-01-363-9280
O702A Steel post marked, hammer type 7520-01-363-9281
O718A Steel post marker, rotary type 7520-01-363-9282
O642 Rubber, for use on Nos. 550, 570, and 552 7520-01-000-9100
O744 Steel, for use with No. 700 without flange 7520-01-364-1911
O747 Steel, for use with No. 700 with flange 7520-01-364-3887

We will distribute automatically the 2004 year type for Mark II Facer-Cancelers (7490-04-000-2004) to all plant maintenance facilities that received the 2003 year type. This year type is also used on the MRC small canceling machine (Models 3601/3602) and the AFCS machine, both lead and trail. Only plant maintenance facilities - which are responsible for supplying this year type to all offices they service - may order this year type.

- National Supply Management Programs,
Supply Management, 10-2-03

back cover: hurricane helpers. they helped us throught the storm. now you can help them by contributing to the employees' relief fund. visit http://www.postalrelief.org.