![](media/image1.png){width="0.9597222222222223in"
height="0.9652777777777778in"} **Federal Supply Service**

> **Disposition**

THE NEWSLETTER DEVOTED TO THE INITIATIVES OF THE GSA PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
PROGRAM

"The first source of supply!"

> **AUTUMN 2003 DN-No. 30**

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**GSA PROPERTY WOWS CROWDS AT EXPO!**

Okay. Granted. It wasn't exactly a reenactment of the 1836 battle of the
Alamo, but it must be acknowledged that when a small army of property
managers from across the U.S. descended upon San Antonio this past May,
a bit of educational glory was achieved---at the GSA 2003 Expo! That's
right! The national property management team, with representatives
hailing from Central Office as well as GSA Region's 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9,
wowed the crowds that attended their training classes with a combination
of informative curriculum and exciting presentations. The team used a
multi-discipline approach in their classes, employing everything from
pamphlets to video slides and from music to audience-participation, to
instruct the attendees. In a diverse series of classes, including
Property Management for Beginners, Personal Property E-Solutions,
Advanced Topics in Property Disposal, GSA Auctions Your Internet
Disposal Solution, and others, the team informed the audiences about the
virtues of the GSA property management program and the significant
advantages that agencies can achieve by using it. Many of the attendees
of the property training classes at the Expo included a battery of
representatives from various branches of the military, as well as a
regiment-size group of civilian agency employees and contractors who
invaded and retreated from the classrooms with their enthusiasm intact.
Overall, if course evaluation forms were any indication, the property
team gave new meaning to the expression "Remember the Alamo" by
providing great solutions to agency property needs, with an
"educational" and "entertaining" program that won't soon be forgotten.
(See page 3 for more Expo news.)

\* \* \* \* \*

### **[Property Proverbs]{.underline}**

"A teacher affects eternity; he can never

tell where his influence stops."

\- Henry Adams

**\* \* \* \* \***

**VA RECOGNIZES PROPERTY ASSOCIATES!**

Mid-Atlantic Region Property Management associates, Robert Kitsock and
George Stanley, were recognized this past summer by the Department of
Veterans Affairs in an award ceremony at the Veterans Affairs (VA)
national headquarters in Washington, D.C. The two Area Property Officers
were recognized for making significant contributions over the past few
years to "Operation New Hope," the VA's Homeless Veterans Support
Program. The duo was responsible for actively

screening and coor-dinating the transfer of tens-of-millions of dollars
of excess federal clothing items from federal agencies to homeless
veterans, nationwide. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the honorable
Anthony J. Principi, presented the associates with personal awards and
plaques that distinguished them for their efforts. The plaques read, in
part, "Through your efforts, homeless veterans throughout the United
States have benefited and survived cold winter days and nights. It is
people like you who have enabled the clothing program to continue to
provide aide to our nation's homeless veterans."

**PROPERTY \-- BY THE BOOK . . . . . . . **

**"How may we sell personal property to State and local governments?**

"You may sell Government personal property to State and local
governments through---

\(a\) Competitive sale to the public;

\(b\) Negotiated sale, through the appropriate State Agency for Surplus
Property (SASP); or

\(c\) Negotiated sale at fixed price (fixed price sale) through the
appropriate SASP (This method of sale can be used prior to a competitive
sale to the public, if desired.)

(41 CFR, Part 102-38.340)

**GSA SCHOOL OF WIZARDING!**

No! The institution is not Hogwarts, the curriculum is not magic, and
the instructors show no semblance to Albus Dumbledore or Professor
McGonagall (for you Harry Potter fans). Lately, however, many property
associates are starting to look like veritable "wizards of the
workshop," by developing innovative training strategies that are
projected (or, shall we say "divined") to result in increased customer
satisfaction. Although the classes are not likely to make the *Daily
Prophet*, they are surely informing military and civilian employees
about the great advantages of GSA personal property solutions. Over the
past few months, property associates nation-wide have been fine-tuning
their efforts at venues like GSA-101 seminars, property workshops,
customer visits, and the GSA Expo, to show the clear benefits of using
GSA as ***the*** property management source. While their efforts are not
exactly magic (nor controlled by the *Imperius* *Curse*), the
presentations do share key com-ponents that makes them extraordinarily
effective---they are simple and direct, and as such show the basic
facets of property that resonate with customers, including---

> **-GSAXcess---a new face on property management\***
>
> **-FEDS---behind-the-scenes key to transactions**
>
> **-GSA Auctions---exciting sales with exciting results**
>
> **-Special Programs---Washington, DC-area gems**

A review of the basic aspects of property can and does have an impact.
By outlining them at various venues, associates show how GSA maintains
effective "cradle-to-grave" management of assets through the shiny, new
GSAXcess---a new image that can ensure agencies get the "the best bang
for the buck." Likewise, any class review of the Federal Disposal System
(FEDS) illustrates the advantage of an inventory system that allows both
disposing and requesting property in one *national database . . .*
increasing agency solutions exponentially. And no talk of "exposure" can
resist GSA Auctions, one program that once seen is believed---since it
translates into great sales returns for agencies. If nationwide agencies
seem enthusiastic about these "national" solutions, then, likewise,
their Washington-area counterparts certainly will be too. After all, a
local gem like the Personal Property Center in Springfield, Virginia,
can't stay hidden for long, since it acts as a storage, screening,
restoration, and selling facility---*all, from one location*! So, maybe
this curriculum really is *magic* and property associates are wizards
simply using a GSA-variation of an old *Hogwarts'* tenet---"GSA will
provide help to anyone who asks for it." To learn more, just open the
door to the next informative GSA property management class nearest you.
It's easy: "*Alohomora!"*

Congratulations!!!

Special recognition is rightfully due to

Region 4 Sales Contracting Officer

**Jenny Mooney**

for being named

**"GSA Person of the Year"**

by the Users & Screeners Association (USA).

Jenny is known for providing that extra degree of service to customers,
whether they need help for

property transfers, donations, or sales.

Way to go, Jenny, for making all your

GSA property associates proud!

##### 

**HEY! GET YOUR NEW SALES REG'S HERE!**

Yep! That's right! We've got hot dogs, cotton candy, cold drinks, and
more! Okay. So, maybe we don't have to sound like stadium vendors to
inform customers about what we're offering, but we're excited just the
same. That's because the GSA has just published regulations on the sale
of personal property that are not only new and revised, but are in an
effective new format designed to make life easy for property customers.
The regulations, which became effective August 26, 2003, when published
in the *Federal Register,* were previously contained in the Federal
Property Management Regulations, Part 101-45. Now, they have been
updated, streamlined, clarified, and moved to a new home in the Federal
Management Regulation, Part 102-38, where they are presented in a plain
language "question and answer" format. This format (an example of which
can be found on page one of this newsletter) is intended to inform
customers on the sale of personal property by anticipating---and even
suggesting---the types of questions *and related answers* they will need
to know about the property process. The adoption of the new format is
part of a trend within the GSA Property Management Division to address
issues with simple, easy-to-use, and informative methods that are direct
and uncomplicated. So, go ahead, grab a hot dog (or a cheese-steak if
you're in Philadelphia) and a cold drink and review the latest sales
regulations (you can find them at
[gsaxcess.gov](http://www.fss.gsa/property)\*). You'll not only discover
innovative ways for agencies to handle that "hard to move" excess and
surplus property that's cluttering up their work spaces, but you may
also catch yourself saying---"Hey! I was just about to ask that same
question!" And just think, with the new format, you'll get the *answer*
too! Now, that's what you call cotton candy for the mind. Sweet!

**\* See more on GSAXcess on page 3 of this issue.**

##### GSAXcess---"X" MARKS THE SPOT!

Are you exhausted from shielding kids from "X" rated spam; tired of
seeing another motor-head film with XXX in the title; jaded by pirates
maps with "X" marking the treasure? Then be weary no more! That's right!
GSA has something "X-traordinary" for you that will invigorate your
spirit and revise the negative image of that ominous "X" in your mind.
It's called GSAXcess, and it's revolutionizing the world of
property---by simplifying things for customers. And we don't just mean
outside customers like auction bidders and the general public, but also
those dedicated workers who labor in federal, state, and non-profit
organizations struggling to find, transfer, donate, and dispose of
federal personal property. Ah! Now you may think that this is just
another elaborate government panacea, or even something amazing out of
Stevenson's Treasure Island. But then you would be mislead by melodrama
and confused by custom, because the GSA Property Management Division is
abandoning the complicated and embracing the easy. GSA has embarked on a
new user-friendly portrayal of property on its web site, including a new
introductory page, new mechanisms for conducting transactions, new
categories of property---38 and rising, new drop-down boxes, new
item-counters for states, new and customized search devices, less formal
sign-in requirements, more descriptive and simplified "links" to persons
and programs, new fields for motor vehicles like "VINs", new "shopping
cart" technology, and, yes, even photographs. Sounds better already,
doesn't it? Well, these changes are on the way. In fact, the property
division is doing X-actly what you X-asperated users have been
requesting for so long. So, enjoy the X-citing, new look of property
management, or go to the property web site at
[gsaxcess.gov](http://www.fss.gsa/property) for a further X-planation.
Just remember all you land lubbers---"X" marks the spot!

**WE'RE OFF TO SEE THE EXPO!**

Speaking of X-citement, it's time to mark your calendar and plan to
attend the premier forum on property management:

**The GSA Expo 2004**

**Orlando, Florida \*\*\* May 11-13, 2004**

The GSA Property Management Division is offering its customers an
exciting array of classes---many of which have CEU credits---that
provide special insight into the world of property, including courses
for beginners, on advanced topics, e-solutions, GSAAuctions, GSAXcess,
surplus, and others. So check the GSA web site at
[www.gsa.gov](http://www.gsa.gov/) for updates on this fabulous forum.
We'll see you there in 2004.

**SOME KEY POINTS OF GSAXcess . . .**

**FEDS Still The Engine That Drives the Car**

Just when you felt comfortable using FEDS (i.e., the Federal Disposal
System) to get you to your property destination, along comes GSAXcess
to change the scene. Well, not exactly. That reliable, old program known
as FEDS---that seems to do it all, is still churning behind the scenes
like a Chevy "stove pipe" six. In fact, it's as effective as ever and
fine-tuned to handle all your property needs. So, don't be distressed
about trading in the jalopy for a newly named model, because FEDS is
still the engine that drives the car. And for help in your travels,
including user assistance, password resetting, and troubleshooting, just
contact the number/address below. FEDS, i.e. GSAXcess, will be there.

**GSAXcess/FEDS Help Desk**

-Staffed 8 AM to & 7PM (EST)

-Call 1-866-FEDSGSA

(1-866-333-7472)

-E-mail: <gsaxcesshelp@gsa.gov>

**GSA's Natural Selection: "Search by State!"**

Yes, we know! It's about time the property division "evolved" enough to
show *items per state* in its system. Well, guess what. Evolution is
here! In an answer to your requests, GSA has devised options to help you
be more selective in your property searches in the new GSAXcess. You can
now simply click your way to a screen that displays the "Nationwide
Property Items by State." If more than 50 items appear in a state on the
screen, the second screen shows a "Statewide Property Items by
Category." If less than fifty appear, the second screen displays a more
general "Selected Property Items List," for all items in that State. In
either case, you win! It's like natural selection! You can now search
[where]{.underline} you want---quickly and efficiently. Let's face it.
It's a jungle out there. So, use this easy *Darwinian* solution---and
live to search another day. Now, that's living!

***≡GONE WITH THE WIND≡***

No! We are not going to reprise Martha Mitchell's great anti-bellum
novel in four sentences. But we will say that gone are the old days in
property when people would "screen" for items, or see "F7" as a
condition code, or wait until after the "surplus release date" to donate
property. That's because this antique verbiage is being replaced with
wording that will help you "select" property, search for "useable"
items, and inform you when excess "screening ends," rather than forcing
you to rely on those tedious codes and outdated slogans. Yes, there's
definitely a wind of change in GSA and it's blowing your way. Learn more
at [gsaxcess.gov](http://www.fss.gsa/property)

**PROPERTY PARTNERS WITH STATES**

The Property Management Division renewed its commitment with state
governments this past summer at the National Association for State
Agencies for Surplus Property (NASASP) summer conference in Montpelier,
Vermont. The division reaffirmed its link with the NASASP through
several key presentations made by property personnel, including Deidre
Huber, Director of the Property Management Division; Dave Robbins, Chief
of the Utilization and Donations Branch; and Joe Hvorecky, Director of
the Mid-Atlantic Region Property Management Division. The presentations
focused on the special relationship that exists between GSA and the
various state operations under the NASASP. They also emphasized the need
to share responsibility for program performance and to maintain
communications for operational updates, program coor-dination, and
training opportunities. The State Agencies for Surplus Property
(SASP's)---that form the operating parts under the NASASP---represent an
integral part of the nationwide property management system by providing
excellent service and value to public and non-profit groups operating
throughout the country and U.S. territories.

**FIREMAN PRAISE PROPERTY PERSONNEL!**

The Schuylkill County Volunteer Firefighters' Association of
Pennsylvania recently recognized personnel associated with the GSA
Property Management Program at its 48^th^ Annual Convention in Tremont,
Pennsylvania. The association, representing 123 volunteer fire
companies, recognized GSA Area Property Officer, Robert Kitsock, and
USDA-Pennsylvania Foresters Michael Mazur and Michael Mroczka for their
efforts in locating and transferring fire-fighting equipment for use by
volunteer fire companies. The equipment, which included trucks,
fire-fighting apparatus, and other items, helped to minimize property
losses, reduce insurance costs, and enhance public safety in the county
located in eastern Pennsylvania. Association president, Thomas Slane,
stated "our association can think of no better example of a
federal-state-local partnership than this."

**PROPERTY AIDS INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMACY**

The property management program was on the leading edge of enhancing
GSA's mission in an inter-regional partnering effort supporting the
upcoming Presidential G-8 Summit in Sea Island, GA. The support was a
coordinated effort between the Region 3 and 4 property programs to
obtain summit furniture from GSA resources. The furniture, including
desks, credenzas, chairs, file cabinets and other items, was located at
the Personal Property Center in Virginia and shipped well in advance of
the "initial logistical planning" date of November 1, 2003, set by
summit planners. The summit, which is scheduled for June 2004, will shed
an international spotlight on many aspects of the U.S. government---and
the property program, through its supportive role, will help that light
shine a little brighter.

**And for those of you just joining us for the first time . . .**

**FRIENDS, ROMANS, LEND ME YOUR EARS . . .**

Or your eyes! Because---with apologies to Julius Caesar and his famous
"friends, Romans, countrymen" speech---you won't believe your eyes when
you see the hottest federal website for selling surplus property . . .
GSA Auctions. And just what is GSA Auctions? Well, it may just be
*the* solution to all your property disposal needs. GSA Auctions is a
state-of-the-art Internet website launched January 17, 2001, by GSA to
auction federal surplus & exchange/sale property. The site,
[GSAAuctions.gov](http://www.GSAAuctions.gov/), offers the general
public the chance to bid electronically on agency assets, ranging from
common items such as office equipment, to items like airplanes,
machinery, scientific devices, and vehicles. The auction is web-enabled,
allowing you to bid on items nationwide using safe, innovative, and
user-friendly technology. And while the GSA Auctions has been a public
success---resulting in over 47,000 items sold and 1.5 million bids in
just over 2-1/2 years---it's with federal agencies that it has produced
perhaps its greatest appreciation. That's because GSA Auctions has
proven its value by streamlining sales, increasing agency options, and
generating over \$70 million in proceeds in its short history. This has
translated into enhanced efficiency and revenue for federal agencies and
almost limitless potential for their futures . . . all from the once
mundane task of disposing property. In fact, while results are dramatic,
it's what is behind the scenes (or shall we say behind the "toga?") that
is responsible for the success of the auction. That's because many
agencies are getting sales results that far exceed expectations---by
500-600% in some cases---due to key facets built into the GSA process,
including a trained staff, a cradle-to-grave asset management system, a
"direct marketing" philosophy, a modern fiscal program, and an equitable
agency fee structure that charges "nothing" unless an item is sold.
Indeed, GSA Auctions represents *the* outstanding solution for managing
your property--- epitomizing the federal goal of being good for
government *and* good for the people. So, if you're interested in the
hottest government website---and can avoid any impatient remarks about
"fiddling while Rome burns"---then contact GSA and ask about GSA
Auctions. You may end up saying, "Hail Caesar!" And hail GSA Auctions
too!

**Editor's Note: I lift my lamp beside the golden door!**

Give me your sentences, your paragraphs, your huddled manuscripts
yearning to breathe free.

Send your property stories, activities, & deeds to me

and you'll be enlightening the property world!

[**robert.kitsock@gsa.gov**](mailto:robert.kitsock@gsa.gov)

*≡ **Disposition Newsletter** ≡ ** ***

Robert Kitsock, Editor, Hummelstown, PA

Phone: (717) 566-1064, Fax: (717) 566-1065

[**robert.kitsock@gsa.gov**](mailto:robert.kitsock@gsa.gov)