INSIDER
‘Why wait’: Absentee voting begins as 1.8M request ballots in Michigan
Read full article: ‘Why wait’: Absentee voting begins as 1.8M request ballots in MichiganAccording to the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office, more than 1.8 million Michigan voters requested absentee ballots as of Thursday, and about 1.6 million opted to join the permanent absentee ballot list.
Stamp increases from the USPS by the numbers
Read full article: Stamp increases from the USPS by the numbersIt is the third time in a year that the price has gone up and also represents the 17th time since 2001 that the price of stamps has changed. In all but one of those 17 instances, the price went up.
Shipping gifts this holiday season? Here are the deadlines you should know
Read full article: Shipping gifts this holiday season? Here are the deadlines you should knowThe holiday season is upon us and as you begin those celebrations, we thought you should know these important deadlines if you plan on shipping presents this year.
New round of free COVID tests available online for Americans
Read full article: New round of free COVID tests available online for AmericansIf you’d like to have more free at-home COVID-19 tests, now is your chance, as the federal government has announced a third round of tests available for Americans by visiting COVIDtests.gov.
USPS Connect Local helps small businesses get packages to customers faster
Read full article: USPS Connect Local helps small businesses get packages to customers fasterThe USPS has launched Connect Local in 17 locations across Metro Detroit in an effort to help small businesses get packages out to local customers faster.
Fake letter carrier flees into woods after stealing checks from Ann Arbor collection boxes, police say
Read full article: Fake letter carrier flees into woods after stealing checks from Ann Arbor collection boxes, police sayA fake letter carrier in Ann Arbor fled into a wooded, wetland area after officers confronted him about using a USPS collection box key to steal dozens of pieces of mail that contained checks, police said.
Troy bodybuilder charged in international scheme to smuggle drugs that treat effects of steroids
Read full article: Troy bodybuilder charged in international scheme to smuggle drugs that treat effects of steroidsA Troy bodybuilder has been charged in an international smuggling scheme that involved the illegal distribution of drugs used to treat the effects of steroid use, officials said.
Congress passes plan to overhaul US Postal Service
Read full article: Congress passes plan to overhaul US Postal ServiceCongress on Tuesday passed legislation that would shore up the U.S. Postal Service and ensure six-day-a-week mail delivery, sending the bill to President Joe Biden to sign into law.
If you want your packages to arrive on time for the holidays you should ship them ASAP
Read full article: If you want your packages to arrive on time for the holidays you should ship them ASAPThe Help Me Hank team has been tracking supply issues ranging from empty shelves to parents having trouble finding much-desired holiday toys.
Michigan AG joins multi-state complaint asking for USPS transparency on Postmaster General’s transformation plan.
Read full article: Michigan AG joins multi-state complaint asking for USPS transparency on Postmaster General’s transformation plan.The Attorney General has signed on to a multi-state complaint demanding a review of the DeJoy’s decade-long plan to transform the US postal service.
Rep. Brenda Lawrence concerned over how USPS changes will impact seniors, small businesses
Read full article: Rep. Brenda Lawrence concerned over how USPS changes will impact seniors, small businessesSeveral changes recently took effect at the United States Postal Service that will impact how you send and receive mail.
800 positions available with US Postal Service in Metro Detroit
Read full article: 800 positions available with US Postal Service in Metro DetroitThe USPS is looking to hire for 800 positions in Metro Detroit alone -- not including an additional 1,000 temporary positions available for the holiday season.
US Postal Service is hiring in Metro Detroit: 800 potential career positions open
Read full article: US Postal Service is hiring in Metro Detroit: 800 potential career positions openThe United States Postal Service in the Detroit area is looking to hire about 800 potential career positions and nearly 1000 seasonal positions for the 2021 winter holidays.
United States Postal Service works to train mail carriers how to avoid dog attacks
Read full article: United States Postal Service works to train mail carriers how to avoid dog attacksWhen it comes to dog attacks on mail carriers, Detroit ranks 10th in the nation. There were at least 35 incidents reported last year.
Michigan Rep. Brenda Lawrence says some problems with USPS are due to COVID
Read full article: Michigan Rep. Brenda Lawrence says some problems with USPS are due to COVIDPostal problems continue to cause problems all over Metro Detroit and now two elected leaders are working to get answers in Washington.
Nightside Report May 4, 2021: Detroiters demand answers over lengthy delivery delays, Health experts weigh in on steps needed to reach herd immunity
Read full article: Nightside Report May 4, 2021: Detroiters demand answers over lengthy delivery delays, Health experts weigh in on steps needed to reach herd immunityHere are tonight's top stories.
Metro Detroit residents report lengthy delivery delays from Postal Service
Read full article: Metro Detroit residents report lengthy delivery delays from Postal ServiceDETROIT – Metro Detroit residents are voicing concerns that mail isn’t getting to them. There are reports of people experiencing postal problems and delays all across Metro Detroit. Last fall, it was the election and shopping season -- but recently residents have been reaching out to Local 4 regarding a recent slow down in service. READ: Don’t mail it in: Postal Service asks residents to remove snow, ice from walkwaysThe new slow down in service doesn’t appear to be weather-related. If you believe you are experiencing a slowdown in mail deliveries there are several steps you can take.
Don’t mail it in: Postal Service asks residents to remove snow, ice from walkways
Read full article: Don’t mail it in: Postal Service asks residents to remove snow, ice from walkwaysDETROIT – The United States Postal Service is asking residents to make sure their walkways and curbside mailboxes are clear of snow and ice. “The Postal Service treats safety and service with equal priority,” said District Manager Rick Moreton, Detroit District. “It is extremely important that you keep your walkways free and clear of snow and ice to help reduce the danger of a letter carrier suffering serious injury in a slipping accident,” Moreton said. “This will permit the carrier to drive up to your mailbox and deposit or collect mail without having to get out of the vehicle. “The area near the mailbox should be cleared in a half-moon shape to give the carrier full visibility.”READ: More local news coverage
US Sen. Gary Peters releases report on Postal Service changes, mail delays
Read full article: US Sen. Gary Peters releases report on Postal Service changes, mail delaysSenator Gary Peters released a report this week on changes to the United States Postal Service (USPS), also addressing mail delays. It is the sixth report since Peters launched an investigation in August. According to data from ShipMatrix, more than 6 million packages have been left sitting in shipping warehouses with days left before Christmas. We appreciate the patience of our customers and the efforts of employees as conditions change on a day-to-day basis.”Changes outlined in Peters’ report are not final yet. USPS leaders said they plan to detail their 2021 plans in the upcoming weeks.
Holiday shipping: Here are dates to ensure your packages arrive in time
Read full article: Holiday shipping: Here are dates to ensure your packages arrive in timeThe United States Postal Service expects shipping traffic to increase the week of Dec. 7 and predicts the week of Dec. 14 to be the busiest for mailing, shipping and delivery. Links for shipping deadlines:Fedex is dubbing the holiday season “Shipathon,” saying the company will be up 22%. To help meet holiday deadlines, USPS is keeping some area post offices open for extended hours the next two Saturdays. To enjoy these fast and free shipping benefits (plus so much more), customers can sign-up for a 30-day free trial of Prime at www.amazon.com/prime. To read more about Amazon’s Holiday Shipping, Delivery, Pickups and Returns options visit the Day One blog at: www.amazon.com/holidaydelivery.
Have you noticed mail delays? Metro Detroit residents share their experiences
Read full article: Have you noticed mail delays? Metro Detroit residents share their experiencesDETROIT – Local 4 has received several reports of mail delays across the Metro Detroit area. Postal Service Mail Distribution Center in Allen Park shows trucks lined up outside the facility waiting to drop off mail to be processed. Local 4′s Hank Winchester spoke with several drivers on Monday who said they’ve never seen delays like this before. Postal Service Mail Distribution Center in Allen ParkFollowing Monday’s report, other Metro Detroit residents reached out to the Help Me Hank Team. MelvindaleIf you are experiencing problems with the postal office you should contact your local post office, file a complaint online, ask your neighbors about their experiences -- and if possible, be patient.
Postal Service addresses major mail delays in Clinton Township
Read full article: Postal Service addresses major mail delays in Clinton TownshipCLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Residents in one Clinton Township neighborhood have gone days -- sometimes even a week -- without mail delivery. Postal Service in Detroit, and while she didn’t want to elaborate on camera about specific problems, Local 4 did receive a written statement. We apologize for any inconvenience that may have been experienced by customers living in the Clinton Township community. Local management is working with customers to resolve their concerns. Postal ServiceResidents told Local 4 that mail, as of Thursday, had resumed being delivered.
SHIPPING DEADLINES: Send your gifts by these dates to make sure they arrive for the holidays
Read full article: SHIPPING DEADLINES: Send your gifts by these dates to make sure they arrive for the holidays[MORE: These 3 apps will help you find the best holiday shopping deals, experts say | Doing a little online shopping? If you’re shipping gifts you want to arrive in time for Christmas, here are some recommended send-by dates for expected delivery by Dec. 25:USPS (excluding Alaska and Hawaii)Domestic Mail Class/Product Send-by Date USPS Retail Ground Service Dec. 15 First-Class Mail Service Dec. 18 Priority Mail Service Dec. 19 Priority Mail Express Service Dec. 23Click here for USPS holiday shipping dates for Alaska and Hawaii, military bases and overseas addresses. UPSShipping Option Send-by Date UPS Ground Dec. 15 UPS 3 Day Select Dec. 21 UPS 2nd Day Air Dec. 22 UPS Next Day Air Dec. 23Click here for more details on UPS holiday shipping. FedEx (U.S. to U.S.)Shipping Option Send-by Date FedEx SmartPost (certain exceptions apply) Dec. 9 FedEx Home Delivery Dec. 15 FedEx Ground Dec. 15 FedEx Express Saver Dec. 21 FedEx 3 Day Freight Dec. 21 FedEx 2 Day Dec. 22 FedEx 2 Day A.M. Dec. 22 FedEx 2 Day Freight Dec. 22 FedEx 1 Day Freight Dec. 23 FedEx Extra Hours Dec. 23 FedEx Standard Overnight Dec. 23 FedEx Priority Overnight Dec. 23 FedEx First Overnight Dec. 23 FedEx SameDay Dec. 25 FedEx SameDay City Priority Dec. 25 FedEx SameDay City Direct Dec. 25Click here to see last-day-to-ship dates if you’re planning to send gifts to Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico or other destinations. AmazonAmazon has not released its 2020 holiday shipping calendar, but last year, the company recommended buyers send products no later than Dec. 22 or Dec. 23 for a Dec. 25 arrival.
Guide: Deadlines to ship your packages so they arrive before Christmas 2020
Read full article: Guide: Deadlines to ship your packages so they arrive before Christmas 2020To make sure your gifts arrive before Christmas, follow the holiday shipping deadlines for the U.S. USPS holiday shipping deadlinesThe USPS recommends shipping your packages by the following dates if you want them to arrive before December 25. FedEx holiday shipping deadlinesFedEx recommends shipping your packages by the following dates if you want them to arrive before December 25. UPS holiday shipping deadlinesUPS recommends shipping your packages by the following dates if you want them to arrive before December 25. Amazon holiday shipping deadlines will vary depending on where you live, what you’re ordering and if you’re a Prime member.
Elves go digital this year for USPS’s ‘Operation Santa’
Read full article: Elves go digital this year for USPS’s ‘Operation Santa’Elves are going digital this year for the U.S. Postal Service’s annual “Operation Santa.”The 108-year-old program fulfills wish lists for families and children in need, but due to COVID-19, it has been forced to go virtual this Christmas. USPS officials said the new system will allow them to reach more children across the country. Children can address their letters and lists to Santa at 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888Helpful “elves” fulfilling the wish list can pick up a letter from any city in the nation. Click here to visit the Operation Santa page.
US judge orders USPS to speed up election ballot delivery in Detroit
Read full article: US judge orders USPS to speed up election ballot delivery in DetroitDETROIT – A U.S. district court judge has ordered the United States Postal Service (USPS) to speed up its delivery of ballots in Detroit in order to be counted in the presidential election. Delivery of ballots in the USPS' Detroit district has dipped as low as 57% over the past week, Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s office said Saturday. In fact, the USPS’ Detroit district is considered to have the slowest mail delivery in the nation, according to data released by the USPS. The data shows that mail delivery in the Detroit region was about 15% slower than the national average during the first week of October. The national average mail delivery time has also dropped from 91% of on-time delivery to 86% in October.
Judge orders Postal Service to take extraordinary measures in Detroit
Read full article: Judge orders Postal Service to take extraordinary measures in DetroitPostal Service facility in McLean, Va. A U.S. judge on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2020, blocked controversial Postal Service changes that have slowed mail nationwide. The judge called them "a politically motivated attack on the efficiency of the Postal Service" before the November election. Postal Service to take “extraordinary measures” to deliver ballots in time to be counted in Wisconsin and around Detroit, including using a priority mail service. “The Postal Service continues to implement extraordinary measures across the country to advance and expedite the delivery of the nation’s ballots." The states also sought to force the Postal Service to treat election mail as first-class mail.
12 last-minute Halloween costume ideas that are perfect for 2020
Read full article: 12 last-minute Halloween costume ideas that are perfect for 2020(Photo by APEX/MEGA/GC Images) (2020 MEGA)Who: The other star of Netflix’s irresistible “Tiger King." What you’ll need: Your hair pulled back in a bun, glasses, a judge’s robe and a fancy white collar. What you’ll need: A banana costume and a loaf of bread to carry around. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images) (2020 Getty Images)Who: A video conferencing program that became very popular once the pandemic started in early 2020. What you’ll need: A piece of cardboard cut with a whole in the middle to look like a screen.
Detroit mail delivery slowest in nation, USPS data shows
Read full article: Detroit mail delivery slowest in nation, USPS data showsAccording to the data, mail delivery in the Detroit region was about 15% slower than the national average during the first week of October, ranking the city at 67 out of 67 USPS regions. Mail delivery throughout the rest of Michigan was 0.5% slower than the national average. The national average mail delivery time has also dropped from 91% of on-time delivery to 86%. DeJoy has since rescinded several of those changes and has repeatedly attempted to reassure Americans that their completed absentee ballots will arrive on time. The recent mail delivery data has also raised alarms after a federal court of appeals overturned a ruling meant to combat mail delivery delays in Michigan.
Why the winners still might not be known long after Election Day is over
Read full article: Why the winners still might not be known long after Election Day is overBut that fiasco could be nothing compared to this year’s election -- and not just regarding who is elected president. There will be more mail-in ballots submitted than ever. The United States Postal Service is struggling with financial issues, which could delay the mailing of ballots throughout the country, according to CNBC. In August, the USPS sent letters to 46 states and Washington, D.C. warning that some main-in ballots might not arrive in time to be counted by Election Day, according to the Washington Post. Mail-in ballots take longer to count.
Post Office confessional: ‘We’ve had an increase in the number of patients reporting delays’
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘We’ve had an increase in the number of patients reporting delays’Since this summer, we’ve had an increase in patients reporting delays (especially in rural areas) with deliveries of their medications sent via USPS. Many of our specialty medications are refrigerated and sent via FedEx Overnight, but most of our retail prescriptions and non-refrigerated medications are sent via USPS Priority Mail. We typically expect, and relay to our patients, that their medications (sent via USPS) will take 2-3 days to arrive, from the date it ships from our facility. We’ve had an increase in the number of patients reporting delays, and in some cases it takes over a week to arrive. We’ve also had an increase in issues with tracking the shipments; when I started working here about a year ago, I never had any issues tracking shipments.
Post Office confessional: ‘Can’t imagine how bad it is to rely on USPS to bring medication’
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘Can’t imagine how bad it is to rely on USPS to bring medication’The following are responses to ClickOnDetroit’s callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. It’s not due to lack of mail, our postal worker just doesn’t come! When my dad mails something to Mexico it takes at least 5 weeks to get there -- NO MAIL SHOULD TAKE THAT LONG! So just to mail a letter from a city 30 minutes away it took a week! I can’t imagine how bad it is for people that rely on USPS to bring their medication!
Post Office confessional: We will be assessed a penalty after its finally processed
Read full article: Post Office confessional: We will be assessed a penalty after its finally processedThe following are responses to ClickOnDetroits callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. Our city income tax return was due July 31. I hand delivered the return to the main post office on July 20. The post office box for the city is located there. Three weeks later, I received the return back with a 15 cents postage due.
Are you experiencing mail delays? Many worry possible disruptions could affect voting by mail
Read full article: Are you experiencing mail delays? Many worry possible disruptions could affect voting by mailDETROIT Possible mail delays have been a big concern for everyday people and political leaders like Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. An investigation is underway as many worry possible disruptions could affect voting by mail. One letter from Clawson to Detroit took three days. If you are still experiencing delays you should alert your local post office, contact Michigans attorney general to voice your concern. READ: Post Office confessional: We will be assessed a penalty after its finally processed
Michigan SOS: Influx of voters, mail-in ballots to stretch Election Day into election week this Nov.
Read full article: Michigan SOS: Influx of voters, mail-in ballots to stretch Election Day into election week this Nov.While absent voter ballots provide a safe alternative to voting in person at the polls on Election Day, the process of counting absent voter ballots can determine how quickly, or not, final election results are announced. Processing absent voter ballots in MichiganThe process for counting absent voter ballots is different in each state. In Michigan, election workers are not allowed to begin processing absent voter ballots until 7 a.m. on Election Day. The previous record for absent voter ballots cast in a Michigan election was 1.3 million in the 2016 Presidential Election. Polling precincts will still be open for Michigan voters from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Election Day.
Post Office confessional: ‘I have filed numerous complaints yet nothing gets done’
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘I have filed numerous complaints yet nothing gets done’I pay for two-day priority shipping -- the package arrives from its point of origin, to the Detroit hub, usually the next day. In the past year, I’ve waited as much as 11 days for a package, mailed through the USPS, with 2-3 day shipping, numerous times. I’m very fed up with the lousy service USPS is providing. I have filed numerous complaints yet nothing gets done about it.”-- Maureen in Alger (ZIP: 48610)“Mailed a package from the Clinton Township P.O. It went there, was out for delivery, went back to warehouse, then to NJ, then to CT and finally back to California.
Voting by mail in Michigan for 2020 General Election: What to know
Read full article: Voting by mail in Michigan for 2020 General Election: What to knowThe state of Michigan mailed absentee voting applications to all registered Michigan voters in May for this years August and November elections. Filling out a Michigan absent voter ballot for the 2020 General ElectionOnce you receive your absent voter ballot in the mail, it simply needs to be filled out following the written instructions attached and returned before the deadline. Inside of your official Michigan absent voter ballot envelope is a brightly-colored secrecy sleeve containing your ballot. Returning your completed Michigan absent voter ballotCompleted absent voter ballots for the 2020 General Election must be received by your local clerks office by 8 p.m. on November 3. Packaging your absent voter ballot once its completedOnce youve filled out your Michigan absent voter ballot for the 2020 General Election, place it inside of the brightly-colored secrecy sleeve that it was initially presented in.
Post Office confessional: Over a month to get to Michigan from California
Read full article: Post Office confessional: Over a month to get to Michigan from CaliforniaThe following is a response to ClickOnDetroits callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. I placed an order (shipping from California) on July 18, within 10 days they shipped it (via USPS). On August 6 tracking showed the package was 2 blocks from my house (not at the post office either). When I contacted the post office (the first time) I was told they contacted the last place it was scanned and they were waiting for a reply. I was told that they had to close the case but would continue to monitor my package.
Post Office confessional: ‘Too many issues I have experienced with the mail'
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘Too many issues I have experienced with the mail'The following is a response to ClickOnDetroit’s callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. “I mailed the remaining payment check to the tree trimmer that did work for me on 6/30. I also filed a ‘missing mail’ report with the USPS on 8/23, and have had no reply from the post office. There are too many issues I have experienced with the mail to write to you about re the postal service, and they have been going on for 2-3 years, not just the last two months. Have you missed a bill payment because you did not receive the mail on time?
Post Office confessional: ‘Plan more time for them to get there'
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘Plan more time for them to get there'The following is a response to ClickOnDetroit’s callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. “Mail delivery gets later and later each day and maybe only comes three days a week. Won’t be paying for special priority services anymore since items do not arrive as planned. Has a loved one not received his or her medicine through the mail on time? Have you missed a bill payment because you did not receive the mail on time?
Post Office confessional: ‘I had a package that was missing for 5 weeks'
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘I had a package that was missing for 5 weeks'The following is a response to ClickOnDetroit’s callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. There are weeks that I don’t receive mail for 4-plus days. Then there are weeks I get my mail almost every day. Back in April I had a package that was missing for 5 weeks. Have you missed a bill payment because you did not receive the mail on time?
Post Office confessional: ‘The norm over the last several years'
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘The norm over the last several years'The following is a response to ClickOnDetroit’s callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. Delays in sending and/or receiving mail has been the ‘norm’ over the last several years. Mail has been tampered with, repeatedly delivered to the wrong address (including packages), and carriers have outright lied about deliveries. A case in point: we’d been waiting for a package to be delivered on the anticipated and posted delivery date. As it was the posted delivery date and the delivery was for an auto part, we decided to work on the vehicle that day.
Post Office confessional: It has continued and gotten worse'
Read full article: Post Office confessional: It has continued and gotten worse'The following is a response to ClickOnDetroits callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. I live in 48324 -- West Bloomfield. I noticed the mail starting to slow down in April at the height of the virus. I guess I thought that made some amount of sense because everything was behind schedule then -- not just the mail. But it has continued and gotten worse.
BBB warns of online face mask retailer Hyperfavor
Read full article: BBB warns of online face mask retailer HyperfavorBetter Business Bureau is warning consumers that it has received 61 Complaints and 56 negative Customer Reviews for online retailer, Hyperfavor. The business, which claims to be based out of Sheridan, Wyoming, operates the website, hyperfavor.com, where it sells themed and customizable apparel- including a wide assortment of cloth face coverings. Complainants also allege receiving tracking numbers that appear to be fraudulent or that never update. After reaching out to Hyperfavor, they received responses saying the order would be shipped in a few days. The company currently has an F rating based on the volume of complaints received and their failure to respond to the majority of them.
Post Office confessional: ‘Mail delivery here has been poor for years'
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘Mail delivery here has been poor for years'The following is a response to ClickOnDetroit’s callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. “Mail delivery in the 48114 ZIP code has been poor for years. Mostly, the poor service was when the regular mail carrier was off. My new neighbor (since December 2019) mentioned to me that he feels we have poor mail service. The Post Office never kept me updated, but did deliver it on Day 19 -- still without any follow up.
Rally held to protect Post Office in Royal Oak
Read full article: Rally held to protect Post Office in Royal OakROYAL OAK, Mich. From Washington to Royal Oak -- people rallied to demand Congress do something to protect the Post Office. People from all over Metro Detroit protested in Royal Oak Saturday. They said not only is the Post Office essential for democracy in November, but also to their every day lives. Postal Service operations and send $25 billion to shore up the agency ahead of the November election. Read: Post Office Confessionals
Post Office confessional: ‘Two weeks to go two miles'
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘Two weeks to go two miles'The following is a response to ClickOnDetroit’s callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. “I retired from the post office 18 years ago. Route adjustments, no overtime, supervision doing bargaining unit work to stem overtime pay, hiring freezes, delayed mail delivery -- I have seen it all. Any money that the Post Office makes must be put into that fund before any profits. Mail from the Downriver area is now sent to Pontiac to be processed when it used to be taken to the Detroit main post office and then back for delivery to the areas around here.
Post Office confessional: ‘We can’t even keep the staff we have'
Read full article: Post Office confessional: ‘We can’t even keep the staff we have'The following is a response to ClickOnDetroit’s callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. “They come multiple times a day because all the mail and parcels aren’t sorted in time in the morning. They have to drive back to the office midday -- this is a huge waste of time and money but fixing it is not a small simple change. They call this pivoting and it is the reason you see a different carrier every day on some routes. At this point, we can’t even keep the staff we have because they are tired of working 12-plus hours a day while being told they are too slow and everything is their fault.
Post Office confessional: It seems like small practical changes could save millions'
Read full article: Post Office confessional: It seems like small practical changes could save millions'The following is a response to ClickOnDetroits callout for recent experiences with the Post Office. We have missed making several bill payments on time because of mail that never arrives. Two times we were able to make online payments the day of receiving a bill. We have a small Amazon business so we send out and receive many packages on a regular basis; about 75-200 packages a month. Have you missed a bill payment because you did not receive the mail on time?
Michigan joining lawsuit to challenge post office changes
Read full article: Michigan joining lawsuit to challenge post office changesLANSING, Mich. The state of Michigan is joining other states in suing the U.S. Postal Service over service changes, Attorney General Dana Nessel said Tuesday. A lawsuit was in the works Tuesday in federal court in Washington state, although Postmaster General Louis DeJoy also announced that he was suspending certain changes until after the fall election. Nessel and attorneys general in other states said significant changes must face a public comment period and go to the Postal Regulatory Commission. Related: Ballot drop boxes seen as a way to bypass the post office
Post Office confessionals: Share your experiences with the mail
Read full article: Post Office confessionals: Share your experiences with the mailPostmaster General Louis DeJoy has announced that he was suspending certain changes until after the fall election while complaints about the mail have been piling up for weeks. Have you experienced a delay with your mail -- either sending or receiving it? Has a loved one not received his or her medicine through the mail on time? Have you missed a bill payment because you did not receive the mail on time? Please let us know with as much detail as possible:Related:
Worried about whether your vote will count? Here’s how to submit a ballot without using the mail
Read full article: Worried about whether your vote will count? Here’s how to submit a ballot without using the mailRestrictions and types of early voting vary by state, but 40 states and the District of Columbia do offer some form of early voting. Turning in ballots at a local election office or polling locationJust about every state allows voters to bring ballots in person to turn them in at local election offices. If you’re not close to a local election office to turn in a ballot, some states allow ballots to be turned in to alternate locations or the polling locations. New Hampshire and Vermont allow voters to return ballots to a polling place. Drop boxesThese are special containers that allow voters to drop off absentee or mail-in ballots in sealed envelopes.
LIVE STREAM: Michigan reps. call out Trump, sabotage of Nov. election amid USPS controversy
Read full article: LIVE STREAM: Michigan reps. call out Trump, sabotage of Nov. election amid USPS controversySOUTHFIELD, Mich. A number of Michigan representatives are holding a news conference at 11 a.m. Wednesday to address issues with the United States Postal Service (USPS) related to mail-in voting amid national controversy. Representative Brenda Lawrence, of the states 14th congressional district, will lead a discussion to bring awareness to the Trump administrations efforts to attack the United States Postal Service, sabotage the upcoming election, and undermine our democracy, an announcement reads. That means they cant have universal mail-in voting; they just cant have it.Mail-in voting, or voting absentee, has become a popular voting method throughout the U.S. amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Earlier Sunday, Democratic lawmakers demanded that leaders of the Postal Service testify at an emergency oversight hearing Aug. 24 on mail delays. More: Q&A: Whats happening at the US Postal Service, and why?
Postmaster General: USPS mail-delaying initiatives paused until after Nov. election
Read full article: Postmaster General: USPS mail-delaying initiatives paused until after Nov. electionPostal Service (USPS) initiatives that could impact the timely delivery of absent voter ballots for the November election are being paused until the election is complete. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy said in a statement Tuesday that in an effort to avoid even the appearance of any impact on election mail, the USPS will continue its services as normal through the end of the election cycle. Record numbers of absent voter ballots have been requested and issued in Michigan and across the country for this years elections. The Postal Service is ready today to handle whatever volume of election mail it receives this fall, DeJoy said Tuesday. More: Q&A: Whats happening at the US Postal Service, and why?
Michigan postal workers express concern about current working conditions
Read full article: Michigan postal workers express concern about current working conditionsTlaibs spoke in response to the recent statement from Postmaster General Louis DeJoy about concerns of current conditions inside post offices nationwide and worries about mail in ballots. DeJoy released a statement stating, The postal service is ready today to handle whatever volume of election mail it receives this fall.But the changes were already made. We stand before the United States Postal Service to say, heroes work here and we have your back, said Rep. Haley Stevens. People who work for the United States Postal Service have come to work, have put themselves at risk, in order to meet the commitment, said Rep. Dan Kildee. Several voters are concerned that the ballots wont be counted but Benson said theyre working to make sure that wont happen.
USPS cannot guarantee Michigans mail-in votes will arrive in time to be counted
Read full article: USPS cannot guarantee Michigans mail-in votes will arrive in time to be countedRELATED: Michigan US Sen. Peters launches investigation into Postal Service delaysThe letter was dated at the end of July, but didnt come to light until this week. Its only compounded fears that with more people than ever before voting by mail this year that votes simply wont be counted. This is not the time for the Postal Service to give up on its responsibility to serve, Benson said. Q&A: Whats happening at the US Postal Service, and why? Related: Wealthy donors pour millions into fight over mail-in votingBensons office is asking anyone who sees the post office removing mailboxes to report those sightings to her office.
Michigan to mail cards telling 4.4M they can vote from home in November
Read full article: Michigan to mail cards telling 4.4M they can vote from home in NovemberMichigan will mail postcards telling 4.4 million registered voters that they can vote from home in November's presidential election, and it will spend $2 million to reimburse local governments that provide pre-paid postage on absentee ballot return envelopes, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said Thursday. She said the moves, which come amid the coronavirus pandemic, are needed to make sure voters and election workers can stay safe. She pointed to the record number of absentee ballots that were cast in last week's primary, which also had record turnout. The state will allocate $5.5 million in federal funding to local jurisdictions not only for postage on ballot return envelopes but also to redesign envelopes to the standards of the U.S. Any voter can cast an absentee ballot without needing an excuse following the approval of a ballot initiative in 2018.
Democratic lawmakers demand answers over postal service delivery delays
Read full article: Democratic lawmakers demand answers over postal service delivery delaysDETROIT – US Democratic Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan and postal workers are accusing Postmaster General Louis DeJoy of forcing workers to leave their work unfinished in order to slow down mail service. In a press conference Monday morning, Peters noted that he has heard from hundreds of Michigan residents who say they have had sudden delays in vital mail service. She criticized DeJoy and President Donald Trump saying without a working mail service the November election is in danger. But as the pandemic continues Michiganders have increasingly relied on the mail service for vital needs including Michelle Brown who spoke to reporters about her husband missing a medication delivery. Peters has set up a specific website for people to send in their stories about mail delays as the pandemic continues.
Michigan US Sen. Peters launches investigation into Postal Service delays
Read full article: Michigan US Sen. Peters launches investigation into Postal Service delaysSenator Gary Peters is launching an investigation into reported delays at the U.S. Postal Service as mail-in voting use spikes during the coronavirus pandemic. Mail-in voting is expected to surge in November as voters take precautions against the COVID-19 pandemic. In Michigan, mail-in voting shattered all previous records in the 2020 August Primary Election. Related: Wealthy donors pour millions into fight over mail-in voting
Michigan lawmaker begins investigation into US Postal Service due to mail delays
Read full article: Michigan lawmaker begins investigation into US Postal Service due to mail delaysDETROIT Has your mail been delayed or is it not even arriving at your home? With many residents frustrated, an investigation has been launched into the delays and problems in the U.S. ORIGINAL STORY: Michigan US Sen. Peters launches investigation into Postal Service delaysThe delays have Sen. Gary Peters so concerned, he launched a full investigation. Back in the 2016, the Michigan numbers came in late and the number of absentee voters at the time werent overwhelming. Related: Mail could be delayed as new postal boss pushes cost-cuttingPeters is asking for individuals, business and organizations who have been affected by mail delays to report the problems to the committee here.
On this 50th anniversary for the USPS, mail a letter to a friend
Read full article: On this 50th anniversary for the USPS, mail a letter to a friendFifty years ago, the former Post Office Department changed over and became the United States Postal Service. Postal Service, as we know it now, has only been around since 1970? Energized by the Civil Rights Movement, postal workers in New York went on strike, and the movement eventually swelled across the country. Previously, letters were taken to a Post Office, where employees would note the postage due (or paid) in the upper right corner. Postal Service stands financially, perhaps we do have to consider, what if the mail goes away someday?
Want your package to arrive by Christmas 2019? A guide to all your shipping deadlines
Read full article: Want your package to arrive by Christmas 2019? A guide to all your shipping deadlinesPostal ServiceDec. 14: USPS Retail Ground shipments ✅Dec. 18: Alaska to mainland First-Class Mail ✅Dec. 19: Hawaii to mainland First-Class Mail and Priority Mail, also Alaska Priority Mail ✅*There’s still time for dates below! Dec. 20: First-Class Mail ServiceDec. 21: Priority Mail; Also deadline for Alaska and Hawaii to the mainland through Priority Mail ExpressDec. 23: Priority Mail ExpressTrying to send something overseas or to a member of the military? Click or tap here to check out the guide we followed from USPS, and to learn more about your mailing specifics and guidelines. FedExDec. 9: SmartPost ✅Dec. 16: Ground and home delivery ✅Dec. 19: Express Saver ✅*There’s still time for the dates below! As for Amazon deadlines, you’re likely looking at Dec. 22 or Dec. 23, depending on if you’re a Prime member, where you live and what you’re ordering.