BWT CONNECT NEWSLETTER
N O V E M B E R
November, we celebrate appreciation. Kind words and gratitude keep us moving forward together. Thank you for being part of the journey.
As volumes rise, our commitment to reliability and professionalism is tested. Successful navigation of the peak season relies on consistent adherence to all BWT policies.
This quarter demands focus and precision as we execute our annual plans. Let’s make every delivery, every process, and every action count toward our year-end goals.
Anticipation is essential for handling the holiday rush. Be proactive by keeping training updated, verifying schedules, and ensuring clear communication Successful teams prepare now for future challenges.
GRATITUDE IN MOTION DRIVING EXCELLENCE THROUGH APPRECIATION
As the year winds down and the holiday season approaches, November offers us a powerful reminder: gratitude is more than a feeling—it’s a force. At BWT, it’s the fuel behind every mile driven, every pallet moved, every call answered, and every challenge met with determination.
This month, we pause to recognize the incredible people who make our mission possible. To our drivers, who brave long roads and tight schedules to deliver excellence—thank you for being the heartbeat of our operations. To our warehouse teams, who manage the flow of goods with precision and care—your strength and attention to detail keep us running smoothly. To our dispatchers, customer service reps, HR, safety, and support staff—your coordination, communication, and commitment ensure that every piece of the puzzle fits.
Every role at BWT matters. Whether you're behind the wheel, on the dock, in the office, or in the field, your work contributes to something bigger. You help build trust with our customers, uphold our reputation, and create a workplace where people feel valued and empowered.
As we enter peak season, let’s carry this spirit of appreciation into everything we do. Let’s celebrate each other, support one another, and finish the year strong—together.
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH BIRTHDAYS
Location: Darlington, SC
Hire Date: January 30, 2021
Job Title: Lead Driver
We are proud to recognize Raleigh Dubose, Lead Driver from our Darlington, SC team under the Red Baron Transportation division, as our Employee of the Month!
Raleigh is the definition of a dependable and outstanding leader. Since his promotion, he has successfully guided his team to consistently exceed goals on both the Shuttle and Roll sides. His dedication perfectly reflects BWTs' standard that adherence to policies—including attendance, standards of conduct, and our Drug-Free Workplace —is essential to success.
What truly sets Raleigh apart is his exceptional focus on safety and teamwork. He proactively implemented a process at the GP customer site that resolved an ongoing safety issue, which eliminated negative complaints and brought in positive feedback. He is also the ultimate team player, always punctual, filling open shifts without being asked, and fostering a spirit of harmony that has our drivers collaborating better than ever. Furthermore, Raleigh earned high praise from the customer for his immediate and professional assistance during a recent rollover incident, demonstrating his commitment during a crisis.
Join us in celebrating Raleigh Dubose for his remarkable leadership, unwavering reliability, and dedication to safety and BWT’s success!
Mae Stover
Maria D Minier
Brown
Sammie McCall
C Williams
Swain
Terrance Lockett
Elmer Senecal
Marcellus Blakely
Dubose
J Taylor
Mactar Diagne
Darryl O Johnson
Tynesha Brown
Raleigh Dubose
SAFETY FIRST
Stay Safe and Warm: Essential Winter Safety Tips
The arrival of colder weather means the arrival of unique safety challenges. As we head into the busy season, safety and reliability go hand-inhand. Review these essential tips to protect yourself and ensure smooth operations all winter long.
1.On the Ground & In the Yard (Slips & Falls)
Walk Like a Penguin: When walking in snow and ice, take slow, deliberate steps and shuffle your feet to maintain balance and avoid slips and falls. Also, wipe your feet upon entering buildings to prevent wet floors indoors. Watch for Black Ice: Always be cautious of surfaces that look wet but may be black ice. DO NOT walk on or near areas of frozen water (particularly frozen lakes or ponds).
Gritted Pathways: Always use gritted pathways where available. Be particularly cautious on non-gritted areas. Keep it Clear: Ensure workspaces are well lit (as winter days are typically much darker) and that walkways are free from obstructions.
2. Protecting Yourself (Cold Stress & Health)
Dress in Layers (PPE): Wear multiple layers of clothing. The inner layer should 'wick' moisture away from your body, and the outer layer should be a waterproof/windproof shell. Don't forget your hat/cap, scarf, gloves/mittens, and thick warm safety shoes or boots.
Pace Yourself: Working in the cold consumes more energy. Get sufficient rest the night before, and DO NOT skip breakfast. Monitor Your Health: Pace yourself during heavy work to avoid heavy sweating and resulting wet clothing. If you feel ill, contact management immediately, as the cold weather puts additional strain on the heart. Avoid: Steer clear of sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks, as they can interfere with your body's ability to regulate heat.
3. Vehicle & Equipment Safety
Check Your Ride: Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle's tires, lights, and wipers are in top condition. Check coolant levels to prevent freezing.
Mind Your Speed: Slow down and increase your following distance to allow for extra braking time on slippery roads.
Grit Systems: Ensure a formal system is in place for snow clearance and deploying grit or rock salt to roadways and yard areas to maintain safe vehicle routes on site.
SAFETY VIDEO
Click to play the video!
�� See Something, Say Something: The Power of Proactive Safety
Our safety commitment goes beyond rules—it's about actively creating a safe environment every day. The best defense against accidents is a proactive, observant team. Your eyes are the most critical tool we have on the road and in the warehouse.
What is a Workplace Hazard?
A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause injury or illness. In our environment, this includes:
Slip & Trip Hazards: Oil or water spills, loose cables, misplaced packaging, or damaged floor surfaces.
Equipment Issues: Faulty brakes on a forklift, a frayed strap on a load, or a malfunctioning light.
Storage Problems: Overstacked pallets, items protruding into a walkway, or unsecured loads.
The BWT 3-Step Action Plan
If you identify a hazard, taking swift action is key to protecting your colleagues and the product: Stop: Do not proceed or allow others to proceed in an unsafe area. If safe to do so, address the hazard immediately (e.g., wipe up a small spill).
Report: If you cannot fix the hazard yourself, report it immediately to your supervisor, team lead, or safety officer. Provide a clear location and description.
Secure: If possible, temporarily block off the hazard (e.g., placing cones around a fluid leak or damaged floor section) until the maintenance or safety team can arrive.
Why Your Report Matters
Zero Harm Goal: Every reported hazard is an accident prevented, moving us closer to our goal of zero incidents.
Reliability: Damaged equipment or cluttered workspace slows operations. Reporting hazards keeps our facility and our fleet running reliably and on schedule.
Warehouse Safety
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November National Events & Holidays
National Holidays
Nov 1: All Saints’ Day, World Vegan Day, National Authors Day
Nov 2: All Souls’ Day, Daylight Saving Time Ends
Nov 3: National Sandwich Day
Nov 4: Election Day
Make time to vote—early, by mail, or in person. Reach out to your supervisor if you need schedule flexibility.
Nov 5: National Stress Awareness Day
Nov 6: National Nachos Day
Nov 7: Hug a Bear Day
Nov 8: National Cappuccino Day
Nov 10: U.S. Marine Corps Birthday, Sesame Street Day
Nov 11: Veterans Day
Nov 13: World Kindness Day
Nov 15: America Recycles Day
Nov 16: International Day for Tolerance
Nov 17: Great American Smokeout
Nov 20: Transgender Day of Remembrance
Nov 23: Thanksgiving (U.S.)
Nov 28: Giving Tuesday
Nov 29: Black Friday Month- Long
Native American Heritage Month
National Gratitude Month
American Diabetes Month
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Epilepsy Awareness Month
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
Movember (Men’s Health Awareness)
National Adoption Month
Military Family Month
National Career Development Week-Long
Nov 3–9: International Stress Awareness Week
Nov 10–16: National Hunger & Homelessness
Awareness Week
Nov 10–16: National Education Week
Georgia (GA): Native American Festival & Pow Wow – Stone Mountain Park
Día de los Muertos Festival – Atlanta (early Nov)
North Carolina (NC): Cucalorus Film Festival – Wilmington (Nov 19–23)
South Carolina (SC): Holiday Lights on the River – Columbia (starts mid-Nov)
Florida (FL): Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (continues into Nov)
Texas (TX): Wurstfest – New Braunfels (Nov 7–16)
California (CA): Napa Valley Film Festival (Nov 12–16)
New York (NY): Macy’s Thanksgiving Day
Parade – Nov 27
Illinois (IL): Christkindlmarket – Chicago (starts mid-Nov)
Minnesota (MN): Bentleyville Tour of Lights – Duluth (starts mid-Nov)
Arkansas (AR): Lights of the Ozarks –Fayetteville (starts mid-Nov)
Indiana (IN): A Christmas Story Comes Home – Hammond (starts mid-Nov)
Pennsylvania (PA): Holiday Market –Philadelphia (starts mid-Nov)
Delaware (DE): Rehoboth Beach Holiday Tree Lighting (late Nov)
Louisiana (LA): Celebration in the Oaks –New Orleans (starts late Nov)
Virginia (VA): Grand Illumination –Williamsburg (late Nov)
New Jersey (NJ): Holiday Lights Spectacular – Turtle Back Zoo (starts mid-Nov)
WELLNESS & SELF-CARE
Financial Wellness for Year-End Planning
Budgeting Tips and Strategies to Manage Holiday Expenses and Prepare for the New Year
The holiday season is a time of celebration, but it can also bring financial stress. Practicing financial wellness now can help you enjoy the festivities without overspending and start the new year on solid ground.
1. Create a Holiday Budget
Set a Spending Limit: Decide how much you can afford for gifts, travel, and entertainment.
Track Your Expenses: Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to monitor spending in real time. Prioritize Needs Over Wants: Focus on meaningful gifts and experiences rather than costly items.
2. Plan Ahead for the New Year
Review Your Financial Goals: Assess savings, debt repayment, and investment plans. Start an Emergency Fund: Aim for at least 3–6 months of living expenses. Automate Savings: Schedule automatic transfers to savings accounts to build consistency.
3. Smart Spending Tips
Shop Early & Compare Prices: Avoid last-minute purchases that often cost more. Use Cash or Debit: Helps prevent overspending compared to credit cards.
Look for Discounts & Coupons: Take advantage of holiday sales and loyalty programs.
4. Helpful Resources
Holiday Spending Plan Worksheet
Printable Monthly Budget Template
Create A Spending Plan
My new money goal
Click to play the video!
WORKPLACE WISDOM
Planning for Success: Setting Goals for the New Year
As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on accomplishments and set clear, actionable goals for 2026. Goal-setting isn’t just about ambition—it’s about creating a roadmap that drives personal growth and organizational success.
Why Goal-Setting Matters
Provides clarity and direction for your role. Enhances motivation and accountability. Aligns individual efforts with team and company objectives.
Reflect Before You Plan
Take a moment to review:
Achievements: What milestones did you hit this year?
Challenges: Where did you struggle, and what can you improve?
Opportunities: What skills or projects excite you for the future?
Use the SMART Framework SMART goals are:
Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve.
Measurable: Include metrics to track progress.
Achievable: Set realistic targets within your resources.
Relevant: Align goals with your role and company priorities.
Time-bound: Establish deadlines for completion.
Example:
Instead of “Improve communication,” try: “Complete a professional communication course by March 2026 and apply techniques in weekly team meetings.”
Tips for Success
Write It Down: Document your goals for accountability.
Break It Down: Divide big goals into smaller, manageable steps.
Review Regularly: Check progress monthly and adjust as needed.
Celebrate Wins: Recognize achievements to stay motivated.
Your Challenge for November
Create three SMART goals for 2026—one for personal development, one for team collaboration, and one for operational excellence. Share them with your manager for feedback and alignment.
Your professional roadmap
20 Time Management Tips
SMART Goal Worksheet
E.O.Y. Supervisor Guide
Annual Reflection
GRATITUDE WALL
WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR?
November is a time to reflect on gratitude. The BWT team is encouraged to share what they are thankful for this year, whether big or small.
Submissions, which can be anonymous, are due by November 25th to bwtconnects@bwtlogistics.com and will be displayed next month.
�� FEATURED ARTIST
OCTOBER COLORIST
Thank you to the talented artist for their vibrant Halloween coloring submission! Your dedication and eye for color are appreciated, showcasing your unique flair.
THE BREAKROOM BITE
Sweet & Spiced: Harvest Oatmeal Cookies!
As the autumn leaves fall and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a comforting treat to brighten your break! This November, we’re bringing you a recipe that perfectly captures the cozy essence of the season: Harvest Spice Oatmeal Cookies. Packed with warming spices and hearty oats, these cookies are perfect for sharing with colleagues or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee during a well-deserved break. They’re a delicious reminder of all the goodness this time of year brings!
Ingredients:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
Optional: 1 cup raisins or dried cranberries
Instructions:
1.Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2.Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
3.Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4.Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. Stir in Oats & Add-ins: Fold in the rolled oats and any optional raisins or dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
7. Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded spoonfuls (about 1.5-2 tablespoons) of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between cookies.
8. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy! Share these warm, spiced delights with your fellow BWT team members! Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
ADP HOMEPAGE
2025 Pay Calendars: Weekly and bi-weekly pay schedules.
ADP Portal - Employee Videos: Training videos for employees
ADP Portal - Manager Videos: Training videos for managers.
Catch up on Past News: Link to the company newsletter.
Company Contacts: Contact information for HR, Safety, Payroll, and others.
Company Forms : Access to the Forms Library.
Employee Benefits Guide 2025-2026: Current benefits guide.
Employee Discounts: View available discounts
Employee Handbook: Read the handbook.
Helpful Links: Includes Report IT and discounts.
My Clock Tile: Clock in and out.
My Pay: View compensation details.
My Time: View time card and time off balances.
My Time Off: View current balances
Open Enrollment Replay: Learn about new benefits
PATHS Register for Training: Professional Advancement courses.
Red Baron Safety Incident Submission Link: For manager use only.
Safety Reminder: Monthly Safety Reminder
Helper Calculators: Tools to estimate paychecks.
Wisely by ADP: Sign up for the Wisely pay card.
YOUR VOICE MATTERS
Live Well: The BWT Gratitude Challenge ��
November is a time to pause, reflect, and give thanks—and at BWT, we have so much to be grateful for. From our dedicated team members to our culture of safety and service, gratitude is the thread that connects us all.
Our reliable team members who show up and give their best every day
Our commitment to safety, which keeps everyone protected
How to Participate: We want to hear what gratitude looks like through your eyes. Share a moment that made you feel thankful at work— big or small.
1.Reflect: Think about a person, moment, or experience at BWT that made you feel appreciated, supported, or proud.
2.Capture It: Take a photo that represents your gratitude—whether it’s a teammate lending a hand, a safe and clean workspace, or a moment of joy on the job.
3.Share Your Story: Write a short caption explaining why you’re grateful. Be heartfelt, be specific, and let your appreciation shine.
4.Send It In: Email your photo, caption, full name, and site/department to: bwtconnects@bwtlogistics.com
Recognition & Prizes
Let’s lift each other up and celebrate the spirit of thankfulness:
1.Grand Prize: One standout submission will receive an extra PTO day!
2.Top Features: Selected entries will be featured in next month’s BWT Connect and on our internal monitors.
3.All Participants: Automatically entered into a raffle for BWT merch and gift cards.
�� Deadline: Submit your “Gratitude Challenge” entries by November 25th, 2025 to bwtconnects@bwtlogistics.com
�� FALL INTO READINESS TRIVIA CHALLENGE ��
Take the Quiz!
1. Which common strategy is essential for BWT operations teams to finalize in November to handle the major increase in volume starting after Thanksgiving?
A)Reducing fleet maintenance
B) Confirming all holiday staffing and capacity plans
C) Switching to shorter delivery routes only
2. As winter approaches, which crucial safety measure should all drivers prioritize every day to ensure visibility and vehicle stability?
A) Relying exclusively on GPS navigation
B) Checking tire pressure and ensuring all lights are functioning
C) Skipping pre-trip inspections on dry days
3. What are the three main crops often referred to as the "Three Sisters," which were important to Native American diets and are traditionally associated with the fall harvest?
A) Wheat, Barley, Oats
B) Corn, Beans, Squash
C) Potatoes, Carrots, Onions
B) Corn, Beans, Squash
B) Checking tire pressure and ensuring all lights are functioning
B) Confirming all holiday staffing and capacity plans
ANSWER KEY
