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First-class service, by George

A carrier celebrates Independence Day, a village exhibits USPS history and a small town gets a new postmaster

Lucas Wight, left, and Michael Hinkle get into the Independence Day spirit at the Maple Falls, WA, Post Office.
Lucas Wight, left, and Michael Hinkle get into the Independence Day spirit at the Maple Falls, WA, Post Office.

Rural Carrier Associate Lucas Wight really got into the spirit of Independence Day.

Wight arrived for a shadow day with Maple Falls, WA, Postmaster Michael Hinkle dressed as George Washington, complete with powdered wig.

“He surprised us,” Hinkle said of the unexpected uniform. “None of us knew.”

Luckily for Wight, the weather cooperated, topping out at around 75 degrees in the small Washington burg. “After that, it heated up to 90,” the postmaster said.

Hinkle appreciated the lighthearted touch Wight brought to the day, adding, “he’s a character.”

Indeed.

Preserving history

A local heritage center and museum in Grayslake, IL — a village about 40 miles north of Chicago — recently opened an exhibit on postal history.

The display includes envelopes, stamps, letters, toys, and a red, white and blue mailbox.

“I hope people leave this exhibit knowing just how important the story of the United States Postal Service is to not only American history but to Grayslake history as well,” said Katie Brethorst-Stockwell, the center’s deputy director.

Rewarding job

There’s a new postmaster in Lyles, TN, a small community about 50 miles south of Nashville.

James Sanders, a 13-year USPS veteran, recently moved into the position, which oversees two retail units, 10 rural routes with approximately 5,300 delivery points and 500 P.O. Boxes.

Sanders began his career as a temporary rural carrier in 2011 before moving into other positions, including customer services supervisor and officer in charge.

“The most rewarding job thus far has been postmaster,” he said. “Being able to run an office and know the needs of your employees to help them succeed is crucial for the longevity of the Postal Service.”

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