The United States Postal Service (USPS) honored six long-haul carriers from Middle Village who have been working in the neighborhood for over 25 years.
In an era dominated by digital communication and paperless options, USPS workers who continue to hand-deliver mail remain a reassuring presence in many lives.
As part of its “For the Long Haul” initiative, the USPS recognized six long-haul career postal workers this month for their dedication to the Middle Village community. These employees have each served in the same position for over 25 years, highlighting their commitment and service.
The six postal workers honored include:
- Nancy Fellin – 29 years – Letter Carrier
- Anthony Sbarra – 28 years – Letter Carrier
- Hok L. Kwok – 26 years – Letter Carrier
- Tai Chau – 26 years – Letter Carrier
- Annamarie Gaglia – 26 years – Sales and Service Associate
- Etsil Barriffe-Johnson – 30 years – Parcel Post Driver
USPS Queens District Manager John Tortorice underlined the importance of postal workers and their lasting impact on the communities they serve.
“Our letter carriers, retail associates and postmasters are the heartbeat of the neighborhoods they serve,” said Tortorice. “The ‘For the Long Haul’ initiative is a tribute to their unwavering dedication and the personal connections they have fostered over the years. These stories are a testament to the important role Postal Service employees play in the daily lives of Americans.”
For Middle Village residents, USPS Letter Carrier Nancy Fellin is a familiar face. Fellin, who has been delivering mail on the same route for 15 years, began her career with the postal service in October 1994.
Fellin has continued to work for the USPS for nearly 30 years and is connected to the area beyond the limitations of work.
“I live in the neighborhood. I love talking to the people in the neighborhood, and I know kids from when they were born. They are grown up now,” Fellin said. “You share your lives. It’s nice when someone recognizes you and is happy to see you.”
Hok Kwok, a 26-year letter carrier raised in Middle Village, began working for the postal service in 1998. He has been on the same route for 23 years, admitting he never expected to stay on it for so long.
Letter Carrier Anthony Sbarra can also attest to the benefits of serving the Middle Village area. Since 1999, he has been on the same route and has even attended customers’ weddings, highlighting his deep involvement in the community for over two decades.
In the postal office and on the road, Parcel Post Driver Etsil Barriffe-Johnson has served the area for 30 years in both Middle Village and Fresh Meadows. Her journey began in 1995, when she climbed the ranks of supervisor and letter carrier. She currently works as a Parcel Post Driver.
The six USPS employees have served Middle Village for a combined 165 years in the same community and continue to be a welcomed constant for the Queens neighborhood.
