DID YOU EVER WONDER: Why can't the post office go commercial?
Why doesn’t the Post Office advertise like on stamps or mail trucks or kiosks inside stores, as a way to generate revenue? Wouldn’t it be fun to see a McDonald’s or Microsoft stamp? When I asked officials at the Post Office they told me they think it’s against federal regulations.
— Amy
ANSWER: Al DeSarro, USPS Western Area Communications, Denver, had your answer:
“The U.S. Postal Service has looked into the revenue possibilities and feasibility of allowing businesses to do advertising on postal equipment, vehicles, collection boxes, kiosks, etc.
“The Postal Service has determined that it would be cost-prohibitive to do so. The return on ad revenue would not be worth the operational, maintenance and logistics costs, and the overall postal costs involved. Plus, in these tight economic times, many businesses are cutting back on the money they spend for advertising.
“The U.S. Postal Service already offers a successful program where businesses and customers can advertise on stamps. It’s called “Customized Postage.” Businesses and all Americans can create their own stamps or personalized postage, using photos, business logos or other creative messaging. For more information, go to the U.S. Postal Service Web site at usps.com and click on the ‘Customized Postage’ page.”
Two groups, one park
For a year I have attended an all-women, early-morning fitness group in a park. Another similar group came into the park and signed some type of agreement with the city saying they do not want us there at the same time. This is a public park. Who could I talk to about this issue?
— Upset
ANSWER: It was a permit issue. Todd Marts, recreation and cultural services manager for county parks, said your group (which was meeting in a county park) did not have a permit and the second group did. He said it’s in the parks’ rules and regulations. “In county parks, if you’re for-profit you have to have a use permit or if you’re exclusionary, you have to have a permit. If someone’s just playing Frisbee or just meeting and working out for fun we encourage them to use the parks, but because it’s a business and making money you need a permit.”
Marts said your trainer turned down an offer to move to another part of the park and “I am disappointed we have some unsatisfied people. We want as many people as possible enjoying county parks.”
Hoosier Pass
Would anyone know how Hoosier Pass got its name? At least the one in Summit County?
— Larry
ANSWER: When the Colorado gold rush hit and riches were found in South Park in 1859, apparently miners converging from the Hoosier State named the two Colorado mountain passes.
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