Columns

Jon Stalnaker, post-service, bought houses, tackled landscaping challenges, learned and improved. Now, in Oklahoma, with a new project afoot, he reflects on past endeavors and looks forward to spring planting.

Embraced volunteering, built diverse skills: from military service to postmaster, musician, writer, and ordained minister.

Calaveras Poet Laureate revives toilet stall poetry, entertains coworkers, and surprises Gramma at retirement.

"Halloween memories from 1956-1966: Trick-or-treating, mischief, homemade costumes. A surprise visit from daughter in Bugs Bunny disguise makes the new Halloween enjoyable."

Transforming our landscape, battling harsh weather, and prioritizing home improvements. Hardscape projects completed, turning dreams into reality. Gratitude to skilled craftsmen.

"Pride in mail service; 80s gender shift in carriers; manual sorting era; efficiency tactics; rural challenges, 10-mile rescue tale."

Postal career in 1974 amidst USPS changes. Airmail, Railway Mail discontinued. Mail sorting transformed from manual to efficient tech. Transitioned from clerk to letter carrier, preferring day shifts for a regular lifestyle.

Early paperboy ➔ Military mail handler ➔ Learned manual sorting ➔ Transition to letter sorting machines ➔ Scheme knowledge crucial ➔ Delivery unit experience ➔ Desire to be a letter carrier ➔ End of the line responsibility.

Plant trees in fall for acclimation. Consider type, size, and local suitability. Choose from recommended species in a minimum five-gallon container. Keep roots damp, mulch, water, avoid heavy pruning. Select a suitable tree for lasting beauty and shade.

1969 grad embraces hippie life, dodges drugs. Drafted, buzz-cut for 3 yrs. Beats prof's speech challenge, shaves beard for A.