The Scoop

History of the Cortez Post Office

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 11 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

By Dan Fisher

The landmark Cortez Post Office is the heart of a historic Florida fishing village on a peninsula in Sarasota Bay.

"I like this place a lot because it is so small, and the customers that come to pick up their mail are very friendly," says Cortez Postmaster Sarah Whitson.

Sales/Distribution Associate Josue Montanez, says he, too, finds the post office a place of not just retail but a small-town treasure. "The small-town community vibes stand out from other post offices here at Cortez."

Cortez Postmaster Sarah Whitson.

Retail Associate Josue Montanez

Today, the Cortez Post Office, located at 12112 44th Ave., provides mail service to its residents, preserving a 137-year legacy of growth and united historical heritage.

The origins of the post office date back to its first establishment on September 11, 1888, before its discontinuation on April 4, 1890.

After the first commercial building was built in 1890 by William C. Bratton, the Bratton Store (above), the town was renamed Hunter's Point to Cortez because there was another Hunter's Point in Florida.

Then Cortez Post Office opened again in 1896 at Bratton Store. Louisa J. C. Bratton served as Postmaster.

By 1901, the store expanded, and in 1921 enlarged, the building on pilings and converted into a hotel called the Albion Inn, according to an archeological survey by the Archeological Services Branch of the National Park Service. In 1974, the Bratton Store building and property became the property of the U.S. Coast Guard (above).

At the Cortez Cultural Center, Cindy Rodgers shared curated documentation of the legacy of the post office.

A clipping of a captioned photo from "The Islander" depicted Harry Ditmus, a courtesy photo curated from the book Images of America: Anna Maria Island by Bonner Joy. Here, Harry Ditmus is said to be known throughout the surrounding areas of Manatee County as "Uncle Sam Ditmus" with his white hair and beard and worked as an enterprising mailman after years as a minstrel and entertainer in New York before moving to Florida in 1916.

Postmaster of Anna Maria Island in 1922, Joy says in the caption that Ditmus began mail delivery in 1924 for Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, and Cortez.

Ditmus, well known throughout Cortez and Anna Maria Island as the mailman, used to give children rides to school in his mail truck while out on his deliveries, Rogers says.

The accompanying article is the scene of Ditmus pointing to a mural painting of a Western scene that was fastened to his mail truck. Joy's book says that the painting illustrates a Wells Fargo coach "outrunning some Native Americans – an image familiar at the time as a Chesterfield cigarette advertisement," says Rogers.

A time when Ditmus was a seller of advertisements when he had the painting on his truck until orders came from the Post Office Department for its immediate removal. According to Rodgers, the painting was preserved in a frame and kept safe since its removal.

In 1957, the post office became part of a strip mall on Cortez Road, ushering in the next generation. The postmaster at this time was Harry F. Swathwood, Indiana native and longtime Cortez resident, known throughout the town for being in the bait and tackle business, according to an archived article preserved by the Florida Maritime Museum titled Dedication of the Post Office. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1940 as a Regional Inspector before his retirement in 1945 and went on to pass the Civil Service Examination in 1954 for Postmaster of Cortez. On October 21, 1963, Swathwood appealed to the Manatee County Florida Board of Commissioners during a "regular session" in the Bradenton courthouse, requesting for the renaming of Cortez Road to be called 44th Ave.

On August 25, 1967, Wyman Coarsey (above) became the Postmaster for Cortez after 17 years serving as an oil truck driver for the Pure Oil Company from 1950 to 1962, according to his online obituary. He served as postmaster until his retirement in 1986.

The post office is among 31,247 Postal Service-managed retail offices nationwide. The strip mall that houses the post office is owned by John Banyas, who also owns Cortez Bait & Seafood Inc., Swordfish Grill & Tiki Bar, and Cortez Kitchen.

A bluegrass band performs outside the Cortez Post Office.

For many residents, Cortez Post Office is a valued community member.

"Recognized by its uniqueness by the Cortez Village Historic Society and the Florida Maritime Museum," says Whitson. "The descendants of the families also recognize it settled in this small village."

Dan Fisher is a freelance journalist who works as a Tour 1 Mail Processing Clerk at the Manasota P&DC. His articles have appeared in various Florida magazines.

Loyal and Dedicated Employees

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Orlando Processing & Distribution Center Supervisors, Distribution Operations Veronica Sanguinetti and Michael Hayes were each presented a Service Award and Pin for 35 years of service by Manager, Distribution Operations Antoinette Harris (not pictured).

Thank you for staying with us through the years and for all of the contributions both of you have made in making our organization successful!

You Make a Difference

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 23:00:00 +0000

St. Petersburg Gulfwinds Station Letter Carrier Edward Zazycki (left) was recently presented his 40-year Service Award and Pin by Postmaster Jessie Davis.

Edward, thank you for all of your hard work and dedication over the past four decades. We are lucky to have you on our team.

Virtuoso Performance

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 23:00:00 +0000

Orlando College Park Station Lead Retail Associate Harietta Finley received her first Gold Star Award of 2023 for achieving a perfect score on a Retail Customer Experience (RCS) transaction from Manager, Customer Services Gerry Santiago (not pictured). Finley was awarded three Gold Stars in 2022 so she’s off to a running start this year.

Keep up the amazing work, Harietta.

You Make a Difference

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 23:00:00 +0000

St. Petersburg, FL Gateway Station Lead Retail Associate Ian “Nicole” Miller received a Gold Star Award for achieving a perfect score on a Retail Customer Experience (RCS) transaction from Manager, Customer Services Oneydo Diaz-Araujo (not pictured).

Thank you, Nicole. Great job. You’re awesome!

Cheers to 40 Years

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 23:00:00 +0000

Orlando College Park City Carrier Wadie Hood was recently presented her 40-year Service Award and Pin from Manager, Customer Services Gerry Santiago (not pictured).

Congratulations, Wadie, on achieving this milestone. We know you have worked hard for this accomplishment, and we truly appreciate your dedication to USPS and to the country as an Air Force veteran.

Santa makes a surprise visit to Sarasota plant

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

A few weeks before Christmas, Santa Claus was at home in the North Pole, where it was really cold. He decided to take a little break from the wintery weather before his big delivery day, so he came to Sarasota to take in some warm weather and hang out on the beach. He also swung by the Manasota P&DC to make sure all of the packages and letters were getting processed.

While in Sarasota, Santa heard rumors the Grinch was coming to town, so he beat him to the punch. "We're not going to allow the Grinch to take away Christmas from us," he said. "These employees are way too dedicated for that to happen."

Santa went onto say he keeps in touch with Postal officials during the holiday season, so he always knows what's going on, even from the North Pole.

Mail Processing Clerk Tim Hendley told Santa (aka Plant Manager John McTigue) all he wanted for Christmas this year was an extra paycheck.

Mail Handler Karla Scarbrough was giddy with delight after receiving a candy cane from Santa Claus.

Mail Processing Clerk Lee Scales accepts a candy cane from Santa.

Mail Processing Clerk John Compos hams it up with Santa for the camera.

Mail Handler Michelle Stewart was overjoyed by the surprise visit from Santa Claus.

Manager, Distribution Operations Donald Waiters told Santa that although it was crunch time at the Post Office, he and his team were holiday ready.

Mail Processing Clerk Helen Hendricks felt like a big kid visiting with Santa.

Mail Handler Cheryl Moore poses for a selfie with Santa.

Network Specialist Rachel Gonzalez was all smiles after being told she stayed off the "naughty" list this year.

Supervisor, Distribution Operations Tracey Dang told Santa it's been a very busy holiday season. Since Thanksgiving, Manasota P&DC employees, including Tour 1 Mail Processing Clerk Dan Fisher (left), have processed over 47 million letters and greeting cards.

In-Plant Support Katrina Brown (left) and Mail Handler Brenda Morris jumped at the chance to have their photo taken with Santa.

Mail Processing Clerk Anna Castillo was all smiles while posing for a photo with Santa Claus.

Mail Handler David Sitte greets Santa Claus, who was making rounds in the Florida 2 District to be sure operations at USPS facilities were on schedule.

Mail Processing Clerk Juana Ochoa gladly accepts a sweet treat from the man in red.

Mail Handler Assistant Samuel Castillo accepts a candy case from Santa.

Santa Visits Tampa

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Santa and one of his elves made a surprise visit to Tampa's Main Post Office to check on operations ahead of Dec. 25th holiday.

Left photo: Front row (L-R) Santa's elf (Matt Marracino), Retail Associates Teresa Rhodes and Brenda Davenport, Supervisor, Customer Services Adrienne Brown and Santa (John McTigue). Back row (L-R) Retail Associates Jeffrey Jones and Nancy Washington.

Right photo: Santa, Tampa Postmaster Jackie Villemaire and Santa's elf.

Getting into the holiday spirit

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Tour 1 managers at the Manasota Processing & Distribution Center dressed to impress and brought the holiday spirit to the rest of the employees at the Sarasota facility.

From left: Acting Supervisor Elnesha Bridgeman; Supervisors, Distribution Operations (SDO) Jessica Fisher and Courtney Infanger, Plant Manager John McTigue; SDOs Carlo Perkins (Santa Claus) and Matt Grow (The Grinch); Lead Manager, Distribution Operations Alex Lewis; and Logistics Manager Andrea Maddicks.

From left: Acting Supervisor Elnesha Bridgeman; and Supervisors, Distribution Operations Courtney Infanger; Katherine Torres; Carlo Perkins (Santa Claus); Jessica Fisher; and Matt Grow (The Grinch).

A Salute to Our Vets

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 23:30:00 +0000

Tampa, FL’s New Tampa Station recently recognized its military veterans for their dedicated service. They include (L-R) Rural Carrier Tracy Candidate (Army), Rural Carrier Tonya Dreams (Army), Rural Carrier Assistant Janila Henry (Army), Postal Support Employee Rodney Wells (Navy), and Rural Carrier Luis Irizarry (Army). The Postal Service is proud of its veterans and appreciate all they have done for our country.

Michel Is Appreciated

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Fort Myers Page Station Letter Carrier Michel Antenor (right) was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Fort Myers Station Manager Cinnamon Young (left) in front of an applauding crowd. He was recognized by one of his customers that spoke of their fondness for Michel’s prompt and courteous delivery.

Thank you for always taking care of our customers, Michel!

Mike Pollock Celebrates 35 Years

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Fort Myers City Letter Carrier, Mike Pollock (right) was presented his 35-year service Award and Pin in front of his co-workers by Manager, Customer Service Operations (MCSO) Dawn South (left). “Mike is someone I know I can count on if I need something and for thirty five years he has been a dedicated employee”, commented South.

Congratulations, Mike! Thank you for over three decades of dedicated service.

Joe Gets Gold!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Fort Myers Retail Associate Joe Olivier (right) received a Gold Star Award for achieving a perfect score on a Retail Customer Experience (RCE) transaction from Fort Myers Station Manager Cinnamon Young (left) in front of his peers.

Congratulations, Joe! Thank you for providing Gold Star customer service.

Fort Myers Honors Their Vets

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Fort Myers honored its military veterans for their bravery, sacrifice, and strength to the country. During the celebration, words were shared by Tice Station Manager Robert Totten (second row, far right) who served his country faithfully before starting a career with the United States Postal Service.

A moment of silence was held by the group in honor of those who paid the ultimate price for freedom.

The group shared in cake and handshakes to a crowd that felt a true appreciation for all the sacrifices of these men and women who have served.

Thank you for your service, veterans. Fort Myers salutes you.

Safety isn't expensive, it's priceless

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 23:30:00 +0000

Employees at Tampa Forest Hill Station were given a Zero Vehicle Accidents recognition breakfast for their exceptional work performance during FY22 with no reported vehicle accidents.

Present during the celebration were (L-R) Acting Manager, Customer Service Operations Bryan Lalonde, Local NALC President Tony Diaz, Supervisor, Customer Services Gelmael Morales, Safety Captain/Letter Carrier Melissa Garay, Letter Carrier Karen Valdespino, Manager, Customer Services Keith Delucia and Tampa Postmaster Jackie Villemaire.

Congratulations Forest Hill Station employees. Remember, never give safety a day off.

Safety in Numbers

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 23:30:00 +0000

Tampa Postmaster Jackie Villemaire (front row, fifth from right), recently held a Safety Captain's Team Meeting to plan, strategize and implement ideas that will lead to a successful year in safety.

The Safety Captains were provided lanyards, pins and other goodies to distribute to employees who perform a safe act. Tampa offices will also receive an oversized safety banner for employees to sign and hang at their office.

"Workplace safety is important to every employee in the organization," said Villemaire. "Talking about safety should involve open conversations for listening to concerns from employees as well as any suggestions they have about making improvements."

Honoring our vets

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 23:30:00 +0000

The Tampa Ehrlich Station showed support for its military veterans recently by hosting a breakfast.

From left, Retail Associate Gloria Roman (Army), Rural Carriers James Andruchow (Navy) and Francis Gonzalez (Army), and Retail Associate John Param (Army).

The USPS appreciates and honors its military veterans. Thank you for your service to our country.

Gold Standard

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Tampa Main Office Window Unit Retail Associate Timothy Knauff (left) received a Gold Star Award for achieving a perfect score on a Retail Customer Experience transaction from Supervisor, Customer Services Adrienne Brown. Way to go, Timothy. Your dedication and hard work make us a successful organization.

Service Milestone

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Tampa Main Office Window Unit Retail Associate Anita Bisbee (right) was presented with a 35-year Service Award and Pin from Supervisor, Customer Services Adrienne Brown.

Happy Anniversary, Anita. Thank you for staying with us through the years.

Thank you for your service

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Tampa Palm River Carrier Annex Acting Manager, Customer Services Lawrence Nelson (far left) recently presented city carriers with Service Awards and Pins. They include (R to L), James Guinn, 25 years, Ricardo Gonzalez, 35 years and David Kossow, 35 years.

Congratulations, gentlemen, for your passion, dedication and commitment to USPS.

Pie challenge for a good cause

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

New Port Richey Manager, Customer Services Bill Sutchek (left) had the honor of pieing the face of MPOO Chris Frisco (center) while Business Lead Development Specialist Stacy Watkins looked on.

When a pair of Business Lead Development (BLD) Specialists put their heads together, it's anyone's guess what could happen as was the case recently in Florida 2 District.

During Business Connect Month, BLD Specialists Stacy Watkins and Tina Good held a Pie in the Face Challenge to encourage EAS employees to be more active with logging in their Business Connect activities. The top performing offices would have the opportunity to put a pie in the face of a member of the Business Development Team.

To improve participation, MPOOs also got on board which meant they, too, could potentially get pied in the face.

"The increased participation percentages were stellar for the month of August," said Watkins. "We went from 50 to 92 percent."

The winning offices were New Port Richey Trinity Carrier Annex with 122 activities logged and 57^th Avenue in Bradenton with 383 activities.

The not-so-lucky trio consisted of MPOOs Phil Fleener and Chris Frisco, and Watkins, all of whom got pied for a good cause.

Congrats Stacy and Tina on such a successful event!

Good sports MPOO Phil Fleener (left) and Business Lead Development Specialist Stacy Watkins show off a face full of whipped cream.

Gold Star Award

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 23:00:00 +0000

Tampa Main Office Window Unit Retail Associate Ann Phillipson (left) received a Gold Star Award for achieving a perfect score on a Retail Customer Experience transaction from Supervisor, Customer Services Adrienne Brown.

Congratulations, Ann! Thank you for providing Gold Star customer service.

Smile and Think Pink

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 23:00:00 +0000

Tampa Ybor Station Lead Retail Associate Marjorie Blanc showed her support for Breast Cancer Awareness by assisting with this year's sales of the Breast Cancer Research semipostal stamp at the Ybor City Processing & Distribution Center.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

Breast Cancer Awareness

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 23:00:00 +0000

Every October, people all over the world show their support for everyone affected by breast cancer and Tampa, FL, Main Post Office Retail Associate Mathew Larson (left) and Lead Retail Associate Yvette Landers are no exception.

Postal customers can help fund Breast Cancer research by purchasing the Breast Cancer Research Stamp, a semi-postal stamp issued to help raise funds for breast cancer research.

The 75-cent self-adhesive stamps are sold in sheets of 20 and are available at Post Offices nationwide and online at The Postal Store.

New Revenue Generation

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 16 Oct 2022 23:00:00 +0000

Orlando Processing & Distribution Center Automation Clerk Joshua Lima was presented with a thank-you card from Acting Florida 2 District Manager Richard Fermo (not pictured) for his efforts in Clerks Care – a program that allows retail associates, call center agents, and machine and distribution clerks to pass along sales tips. Lima’s lead generated $217,000 in new revenue for the Postal Service, and he said he is glad to do his part.

Thanks, Joshua! Keep up the great work.