After 42 years, I finally maxed out my retirement benefits and decided to retire from the good ol’ U.S. Postal Service.
It’s hard to grasp the idea that I’ve stuck with the same job all of these years.
Starting in Santa Monica in 1976 as a distribution clerk and letter carrier; then transferring in a couple of years to Oxnard as a carrier; then being promoted to customer service supervisor.
In 1983, I transferred to Malibu, first as a carrier, after purchasing a house in Malibu. Also at the Malibu Post Office, I was Malibu’s bulk mail tech and vehicle maintenance assistant (VOMA) before returning to carrier, after those positions were eliminated.
As a resident and letter carrier in the area, I became enamored with the “Malibu way of life,” enjoying and appreciating the community, and delivering mail over various periods of time, to at least 90 percent of the City of Malibu. I feel grateful to have had the opportunity to serve this unique and beautiful community.
The present route I’m giving up is Southern Pt. Dume and the Paradise Cove area.
Over the years, I’ve met many different people, and I must say, the majority are especially interesting, friendly and good people. The uniqueness of Malibu and its special “vibe” is very evident when compared to other beachside communities.
My overall enjoyment working at the USPS, and especially working the last few years in Malibu, has made the time go by so quickly. I find it hard to believe.
Barry Schneider
USPS employee