Postal employees honored, give $500 check to charity

McMinnville?s post office observed customer appreciation day Friday with employees showing they not only serve the community, they are part of the community.

After being given the Voice of the Employee Award by Scott Forhetz, postal service employees Elsie Newby, Gary Griffin, Cheryl Pirtle and Brent Nunley showed their community spirit by donating the $500 check to the Warren County Food Bank.

During his speech, manager of post office operations David Underwood stated that in all his years with the post office, this is the first time he has seen employees give their award to an outside organization. Instead, most employees use it for in-house needs such as a microwave or other appliances.

?This is a real testament to the community you have here,? said Underwood. ?I am honored to be part of this today.?

Griffin was recognized twice during the ceremony. A second award was presented to him from Underwood in recognition of 35 years of service.

The post office also dedicated a veterans memorial stone. The stone was placed beside the walkway immediately outside the post office. Inscribed on the stone is, ?Thanks to all our military veterans for their dedicated service to our nation. McMinnville post office employees.?

?This stone is in appreciation of everyone who has served,? said McMinnville postmaster Charles Bogle. ?These men and women deserve recognition for what they have given.?

The dedication of the stone was made by veterans representing both county and city governments ? Warren County Executive Kenneth Rogers and McMinnville Mayor Royce Davenport.

During their speeches, both men thanked Bogle for making the ceremony possible, gave special recognition to the veterans who attended the dedication ceremony, and thanked the employees of the post office for their generosity and for all that they do and will continue to do for the residents of Warren County.

During his speech, Rogers humorously said, ?If there is any way you can get my mail to me a day sooner, I would appreciate it.?

Refreshments served during the event included a cake that looked like an express mail package and punch. The ?Pledge of Allegiance? was given by city carrier Billy Roberts and the national anthem was sung by post office clerk Maxine Weeden.