The U.S. Postal Service has reported a $5.2 billion loss in the second quarter. The loss is more than two billion dollars more than this time last year. But in the midst of the agency’s financial struggles, there’s some encouraging news in Halfmoon.A new Contract Postal Unit, or CPU, has opened at DeVoe’s Rainbow Orchards on Route 9. It will add an additional 54 hours of postal operations for people in the Clifton Park/Halfmoon area.
“We’re officially open,” said the DeVoe family, as they cut the ribbon to the new CPU.
It was a proud moment for Larry DeVoe, whose family has owned DeVoe's Rainbow Orchard for the greater part of a century.
“We like to do these things, it’s fun,” Larry said laughing.
DeVoe calls the family's partnership with the U.S. Postal Service, “fun.” Customers call it, “convenient.”
“You have so many things you can buy here at DeVoe’s, a little bit of this, a little bit of that, a little bit of everything, and that’s exactly what you need,” explained Benton Jackson.
He and his wife, Linda, come to the orchard often. They’re thrilled to hear they can pick up their fresh produce and now stamps as well.
“I was very surprised they were doing this considering all over the news they’re talking about closing Post Offices,” Linda said.
The U.S. Postal Service reports a more than five billion dollar loss in the second quarter. The mail agency says it’s getting hurt by mounting retiree benefits and the declining volume of first-class mail.
The USPS has shut down hundreds of post offices nationwide.
“We do have some difficulties and we do have challenges in the Postal Service, but it’s cases like this that will help the communities along,” explained Mary Madonna, Manager of Post Office Operations for the USPS.
Even though the Postal Service continues to lose money, DeVoe thinks the orchards’ new CPU will help his business thrive.
“Anytime you do anything that creates traffic, it’s got to be a plus,” he said smiling.
So for the farmer who, back in June, told us severe weather ruined about ninety percent of his apple crop - today, he's happy to embark on a new venture.
“It makes you feel like you've done something right,” DeVoe said.
The Halfmoon CPU is one of about 3,800 nationwide. It will be open during the same hours as DeVoe’s - Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.
After Labor Day, the Orchard and the CPU will be open on Sundays too.
