Forestry Mutual Fall (4th Qtr.) Magazine

FMIC FORESTRY MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY

FALL 2021

SPOTLIGHT TRUCKING Truck Driver Interviews with Chambers Logging

LOGGER OF THE YEAR

NORTH CAROLINA - Presnell Logging SOUTH CAROLINA - Hicks Logging VIRGINIA- Calhoun Logging

HOW-TO “Risk Assessment” Know the Difference Between C.O.I. & A.I.

SAW SHOP - Bryan Wagner It’s all about the “Hinge”

FMIC PROFILE Loss Control Representative

Jim McCraney

FALL 2021

CONTENTS

From the BIG Desk

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Partnerships in Forestry Report from Virginia and Mississippi.

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FMIC SPOTLIGHT - Trucking

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LOGGER OF THE YEAR - North Carolina

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Keith spotlights the growth and development of FMIC claims support and new training content for 2022.

Mr. Charlie McCarter: “Pork Chop” and Mr. Charles Lanthrip: “Hoss” who drive for Chambers Logging on how they stay safe driving.

Presnell Logging Inc.

SAW SHOP 14

By Bryan Wagner It’s all about the hinge and knowing your trees.

LEGENDS OF FMIC

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LOGGER OF THE YEAR - South Carolina

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PROFILE FMIC - Jim McCraney

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LOGGER OF THE YEAR - Virginia

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The Paul Davis Distinguished Service Award creation and Interviews with Paul Davis and the first recipient Jim Sitts.

Both are former FMIC board members.

Hicks Logging Inc.

We spend a day with Jim as he does his day to day operations.

Calhoun Enterprises, Inc.

THE RISK ASSESSMENT

STEPPING UP TO THE CAMERA! 26 Training Video Committee steps up to create more dynamic content for training.

AGENCY CORNER (C.O.I. and A.I.) Do you know the difference between Certificate of Insurance vs. Additional Insured?

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FMIC KITCHEN 30 Bryan Wagner shares his Shiitake Mushroom & Chicken Recipe.

FMCSA NOTICE to policyholders

Know your responsibility when it come to your drivers and the FMCSA.

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Staff Directory 32

BIG 50

Celebrating for the next twelve months our clients, employees and our success stories.

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These past 50 years could not have been possible without the dedication and support from you.

Steve Presnell, Presnell Logging, Inc.

Logger of the Year ceremony Morganton, North Carolina

LOGGER OF THE YEAR 2020

Mr. L.B. Hicks, Hicks, Hicks Logging, Inc.

Logger of the Year ceremony Florance, South Carolina

LOGGER OF THE YEAR 2020

FORESTRY MUTUAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAIR Michael Walters

DIRECTORS Tommy Barnes Chip Capps Joel Cathey Randy Denman Candace Dinwiddie Joey Ferguson John Hatcher Mike Macedo Tedrick Ratcliff Bernard Rose Marshall Thompson Matt Thuman FORESTRY MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY 801 Jones Franklin Road Suite 100 Raleigh, NC 27606

(800) 849-7788 www.forestrymutual.com

FMIC AGENCY

P.O. Box 19467 Raleigh, NC 27619

Brian Calhoun, Calhoun Enterprises, Inc. Logger of the Year ceremony Alberta, Virginia

(866) 755-0344 www.fmicagency.com FMIC FALL 2021

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FROM THE

BIG DESK Trucking accident prevention is our #1 priority.

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I

am excited to give you an update for the Fall of 2021 with Forestry Mutual. FMIC’s Board of Directors had a vision for the future of insurance for the wood products industry over 50 years ago. Since then, I am happy to report that their vision has become a reality with Forestry Mutual. The full-service model we have developed and implemented with our coverage loss controls and our boots-on-the-ground approach has allowed us to manage and reduce risks that we write—from underwriting, through risk management, and into claims. I could not be prouder of the team that we have.

At Forestry Mutual, we understand the risks we write and know that careful underwriting followed by attentive risk management helps limit exposure for our insureds and Forestry Mutual. In the event of a claim, we also realize that every claim needs close attention, no matter how small. Our insureds deserve to have their claims handled quickly and efficiently, ensuring that fair claims receive fair payment and that inflated claims don’t simply get paid to avoid the cost of dispute resolution. If necessary, our insureds deserve their “day in court.” Forestry Mutual may end up paying more for its attention to detail. Still, in the long run, our customers benefit by being represented by a fair and firm insurer that doesn’t make its customers or itself an easy target for abusers of the insurance system.

Trucking accident prevention is our number one priority, and eliminating those incidents has been my focus as President for many years. Our Truck Driver training is having a positive impact on accident prevention. In 2020/21, we have trained 1,429 drivers, and of those truck drivers, we had only seven driver error-related accidents, which is less than a 0.49% ratio. Our driver training speaks to the positive results that it is having in the industry. However, I want to see that down to zero. We need to continue our efforts in educating our drivers to reduce their speed, don’t get distracted by technology, get plenty of rest and take their time.

The development of the Training Video Committee (TVC) demonstrates our dedication to providing quality training and educational material that uses current technology and trends. The TVC group is currently working on educational content for our Morning Coffee series, Skidder Safety, Manufacturing safety, and our continued push on driver training. I am proud of the team we’ve assembled.

Forestry Mutual has spent the past 50 years setting the standard for quality and affordable workers’ compensation insurance in our industry. It is that standard that sets us apart from other carriers. We may not always be the cheapest alternative, but we are client-focused, family-friendly, stable, and support our insureds when other alternatives fail. Insureds have left us for a time, only to return when the alternative markets lose their ability to provide coverage and the same customer service. Time after time, we hear, “We should have never left you because Forestry Mutual has always been there for us.”

We at Forestry Mutual wish you all the best with your business and look forward to being of service.

Keith Biggs, President, Forestry Mutual Insurance Company (919) 880-1006

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VIRGINIA

Virginia Loggers Association

LESS MAY BE MORE! Ron Jenkins, Executive Director, Virginia Loggers Association

You know situations when the expression “less may be more” – right? Here is one example found in research on smiles! The researchers found that a successful smile -- one that is rated effective, genuine, and pleasant -- may contradict the “more is always better” principle, as a bigger smile which shows more teeth may in fact be perceived less well.

OK I am not a smile expert! This idea is applied to an area we all are concerned about which is fewer eligible commercial drivers.

Ron Jenkins, Executive Director, Virginia Loggers Association

personal safety. Less qualified commercial truck drivers may lead to more accidents!

According to sources who contributed to the “think tank” behind this article, we learned that “timber haulers and harvesters have been enduring this huge challenge of retaining and employing qualified, safe, professional commercial drivers for several years.”

Our source offered up that the main reason behind this dilemma was “that current freight rates are not in line with the costs of wood hauling industry.”

Makes sense to us and the adage once again applies “just follow the money. “ Forest harvesters cannot afford to pay commercial truck drivers the pay scales offered by the Walmart businesses of the world. Good truck drivers will follow a strict set of standards to make the best use of their time, be paid well, and remain safe throughout every road trip.

It seems reasonable that less eligible commercial log truck drivers could result in more accidents. I am not aware of actual research to verify this notion, but a logical argument can be made for the case.

As an industry, we are very fortunate to have commercial log truck drivers loyal to their business and committed to the highest standards of safety.

However, they are likely being tested every day with additional production demands. Designed by God to do the best they can, they may be tempted to do something a little less safe.

Unfortunately, many logging firms have trucks sitting on the sidelines because of a shortage of qualified drivers. Owners are getting back in the truck to make up the slack but what does all this do for safety.

Owners and drivers are bound to feel some level of pressure somewhere even with the most understanding of mill representatives. With the stress of making more loads each day, drivers may tend to speed a little, or not be as attentive to their

If mills work with their essential forest harvesters and haulers, maybe we can return to “more is better”! ~FMIC

Logging and hauling are essential to the forest products industry and the mills must keep up production to meet their customer demands and schedules. Forest harvesters are few but sufficient to harvest the raw forest materials.

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We need the mills to really look at this situation and especially at what they are contributing to the potential for less safe practices. Money can help solve a lot of the challenges. If our forest harvesters receive more money for the raw materials from our forests, they can pay more to their drivers and contract haulers. But everyone must be able to make enough money to be profitable – not just a continuous cycle of increasing a little to cover a single cost – but a margin that allows for profit and investment too!

MISSISSIPPI

Mississippi Forestry Association

BUILDING TOWARD OUR FUTURE

J. Tedrick Ratcliff, Jr. Executive Vice President, Mississippi Forestry Association

Mississippi Forestry Association (MFA) has had an active summer with Teachers Conservation Workshops, exhibits at several annual conventions, and in-person Summer Board Meeting and education sessions. Though COVID-19 has not gone away, it was nice to have some normalcy and to see our members in-person again!

This year marked the 57th year MFA has conducted Teachers Conservation Workshops across the state.

During our North workshop, Mississippi Bug Blues brought live insect species into the classroom and taught about forest health. WAVE Raptors and Reptiles also brought live snakes, owls, and hawks for the teachers to view. During our Metro workshop, teachers followed the journey of a tree as it went all the way from harvest to finished product. Each year, these workshops train and equip teachers with the tools they need to teach conservation education in their classrooms.

MFA also partners with the Mississippi Sustainable Forestry Initiative State Implementation Committee (SIC) to attend and exhibit at various conventions around the state. This summer, MFA and SIC exhibited at the Mississippi Association of Supervisors convention, the Mississippi Lumber Manufacturers Association convention, and the Mississippi Society of American Foresters meeting.

Exhibiting at events such as these allows MFA to

MFA Business Manager Casey Anderson and MFA Executive Vice President Tedrick Ratcliff exhibit at the MS Lumber Manufacturers Association meeting in Biloxi.

connect with individuals and companies from a variety of government and business entities.

Our summer CFE (Continuing Forestry Education) sessions, crawfish boil, and Summer Board Meeting were held on the Mississippi State University campus in the Department of Sustainable Bio-products facility. These were all very well attended and were a great way for earning education credits and networking with other industry professionals.

We are now looking forward to our 2021 MFA Annual Meeting, which will be held at the Golden Nugget in Biloxi, Mississippi, from October 13-15.

Additionally, we are pleased to announce that FMIC Insurance Agency is serving as our Title Sponsor for Annual Meeting! We appreciate the attendance and financial support FMIC gives our association and the interaction and support they provide to our members.

This year’s Annual Meeting theme is “Building Toward Our Future” and will feature an economic development Q&A panel, a presentation on the outlook of Mississippi lumber exports, and a forestry economic update and market forecast.

Registration is now open at www.msforestry.net.

We were very pleased to see the USDA announcement this summer regarding pandemic assistance for timber harvesters and haulers. Our logging and trucking members have been significantly impacted by COVID-19, and this is a step forward in helping them get the financial assistance they need. More information on how to apply can be found at farmers.gov/pathh.

Though COVID-19 keeps rearing its head, MFA staff continues working hard and standing ready to assist our members in any way needed. We know FMIC is there for them too, and we look forward to continuing our partnership for years to come. ~FMIC FMIC FALL 2021

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We are honored to have the opportunity to highlight the achievements of our policyholder, Chambers Logging, Inc., out of Ackerman, Mississippi. The owner, Mr. Eric Chambers, has been a Forestry Mutual Insurance Company (FMIC) policyholder since January 1st, 2019. His operation is one of the first to have come on board with us since writing business in Mississippi. He has a top-notch crew that has not had an in-woods injury or trucking accident since its inception. Eric stated that he is very pleased with his logging and trucking operation employees. Eric noted that Mr. Charles Lanthrip and Mr. Charlie McCarter are his two godsent drivers. Eric said that he is very fortunate to have such sincere and uplifting drivers working for him.

He knows they are always going to conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, no matter where they are, in the woods, or on the road, or at the mill. They are both always very positive with good morals and will never use an ill word while speaking to others. Both have been reliable drivers during their time with Chambers Logging, Inc. With that being said; we took the time to spotlight and profile these truck drivers that work hard and elevate their driving professionalism for Chambers Logging, Inc.

Profile - Mr. Charlie McCarter: “Pork Chop”

Mr. Charlie is 65 years old, driving a 95 International Eagle. His CB Handle is “Pork Chop,” and he has been driving professionally for 40+ years, the last 3 years with Chambers Logging, Inc. Charlie and his wife Dianna have six children, three sons, and three daughters. Charlie joked, saying he has “too many” grandchildren to count, but all of them are wonderful. Prior to being employed by Chambers, Charlie drove OTR for many different employers, JB Hunt, just to name one. Charlie then decided to stay at home and began t haul logs for another local logging company before driving for Chambers Logging, Inc. We asked Charlie a few questions:

FMIC: What has been the most significant change or obstacle in truck driving compared to 20 years ago?

Charlie: All the different regulations and rules, the way you drive. OTR, you now have electronic driver logs (ELD). As far as a log truck, not much has changed for me, but I still keep a time-sheet log.

Charlie: My Safety! I watch out for my following distance from other vehicles. I drive defensively.

FMIC: What are your hobbies/activities outside of work?

Charlie: I like to mechanic. I like to rebuild motors on cars and pick-ups.

FMIC: How do you define success?

Charlie: Being Careful! Being accident-free, being able to go home at the end of the day, and going to work the next day. Staying Alert!

FMIC: What is something about you that not many people know?

Charlie: Everyone knows me. I speak what is on my mind. There isn’t much people don’t know about me. continued on page 10

FMIC: What do you like about driving?

Charlie: I just like it. I like seeing different places, mills. When I drove OTR, I got to see the countryside.

Trucks have always fascinated me as a kid, so I bought a truck. The good Lord has blessed me. I also like talking to other drivers on the CB. FMIC: What do you think has helped you be successful in driving?

Mr. Charlie McCarter, CB Handle, “Pork Chop”

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FMIC SPOTLIGHT continued from page 7

Profile - Mr. Charles Lanthrip: “Hoss” Mr. Charles Lanthrip is 72 years old and is currently driving a 2000 Western Star. His CB Handle is “Hoss,” and he has been a professional truck driver for 50+ years. He has been with Chambers Logging for 22 years in September. Charles and his wife Gayle have one daughter and two grandchildren, as well as one great-grandchild. Prior to being employed by Chambers Logging, Mr. Charles has had multiple driving jobs with many different employers, and we will get into more detail on that later in the interview.

We asked Charles a few questions:

FMIC: Have you ever been involved in an accident while driving a truck?

Charles: I have traveled over 2 million miles and have never had a speeding ticket or accident.

FMIC: What made you decide to be a truck driver?

Charles: I just wanted to get in a truck and see the country.

FMIC: What is your job history of driving a truck?

Where did it all start?

Charles: I started in 1967 by driving a pulpwood truck for my Father.

• My next job was with MS Freight out of Columbus, MS. I was just hauling freight around the Columbus area; I only did that for 3 or 4 months.

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• I then started working for Bellwood, I would work in the warehouse during the day, and then in the evenings, I would haul their shavings. I worked there for about 20 years and hauled for about 10 of those years.

• After leaving Bellwood, I drove a dump truck for about 6 months for Boatman Trucking.

• Mark Jones was my 5th job driving a truck. I hauled gravel, sand, and asphalt there.

• My log hauling started after hauling gravel and sand for Mark Jones. I hauled for the Brooks Brothers. I hauled for them for about 5 years before working for Chambers Logging.

• I started with Chambers back in September 1999, so almost 22 years ago. I have been here ever since.

FMIC: How has driving a truck changed over the past 20 years?

Charles: A lot has changed. Traffic. It used to be fun to drive, but all the traffic has taken the fun out of it. I always have vehicles turning in front of me, trying to pass me in curves and even going up hills.

FMIC: What do you like about driving?

Charles: I just like being in the truck by myself.

FMIC: What do you dislike about driving?

Charles: I dislike slick logging roads when I am coming out of the woods loaded.

FMIC’s Greg Helton and Eddie Campbell valued the time assisting Mike Powell from the NCFA’s ProLogger Class on Thursday, August 19 2021, in Marion NC. Class Room and In-Woods Training, its always a great time to bring a message of safety. Thank you all that participated.

Mr. Charles Lanthrip, CB Handle, “Hoss”

FMIC: What do you think has helped you be successful in driving: Charles: I would say keeping my eyes on the road.

FMIC: What safety tips would you give to drivers that are just starting their careers?

Charles: Stay focused and concentrate on your driving! Do not let anything distract you while you are driving.

FMIC: How do you define success?

Charles: By staying on the road, keeping all of the rig’s wheels on the pavement.

FMIC: What do you enjoy doing when you are not driving?

Charles: I like to fish and hunt some. I like to cook out, who doesn’t love a good BBQ. FMIC: What is something about you that not many people know?

Charles: I always try to be courteous. I will hold the door for people and help others when they are in need.

If someone cannot reach something on the top shelf at the grocery store, I will go over and get it down for them.

Forestry Mutual would like to thank “Pork Chop”, “Hoss” and Chambers Logging for being apart of our continuing series on Truck Driver Highlight.

Keep up the great work. ~FMIC

Big Thank You to Ray Sullivan, Owner of S&T Construction, LLC. On Friday, August 27, 2021, at Russell County Fairgrounds in Castlewood Virginia. Forestry Mutual was given the opportunity to spend time with Truck Drivers, presenting Truck Driver Safety Awareness Class. FMIC’s Greg Helton gave an informative Awareness Training along with Good Driving Habits. After the Truck Driver Training, the participants stayed for additional training to increase their Virginia SHARP continue education requirements. FMIC’s Shawn Fulks, Chris Hudson, and Eddie Campbell gave an overview of the leading causes of accidents in our Industry. Thanks to all who participated.

Sponsors Include S&T Construction, LLC. Columbia Forest Products. Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Virginia Department of Forestry. Forestry Mutual Insurance Company.

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It is with great pleasure that Forestry Mutual Insurance Company announces the North Carolina E. K. Pittman Safety Award 2020 Logger of the Year Award. The award is named in honor of the first Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Forestry Mutual and presented to those companies chosen by the President and staff of Forestry Mutual based on their safety record and continued emphasis on safety in the workplace.

This is Forestry Mutuals’ most prestigious award. Mr. Pittman served from 1971-1984 and was a strong proponent of Safety Training & Education and the use of personal protective equipment. This safety award recognizes businesses that show a genuine concern for the safety of their workers by going beyond the minimum safety requirements to ensure a safe and productive workplace.

Each of the four Regions in North Carolina looks at all their Logging Accounts. One is nominated from each Region. The committee must zero down to that one operation that excels above normal policy & procedures and exceeds expectations.

The criteria for selecting a winner: • Safety record ∙ Demonstrated safe work environment.

BASED ON:

• • • • • • • • • • •

Loss ratio. = 0% NCCI Experience Mod. = .94 On-site announced & unannounced inspections.

Implemented Safety Best Management Practices (BMP’s). These BMP’s are in line or exceed industry standards.

Awareness, training/education & accountability of all employees & contractors.

Documentation of OSHA required annual training is maintained.

Involvement in relevant associations such as NCFA, CLA, etc.

Leadership and crew’s approachability by Safety/Loss Control inspectors and application of recommendations made.

A genuine understanding of what strategic relationships are and the importance of fostering those relationships to benefit their operation and the perception of the entire logging community.

An attitude of taking true ownership of the business; makes no excuses.

A mindset of proactive vs. reactive; ahead of the game.

The operation that most fully represents those attributes is “Presnell Logging, Inc.” out of Marion, North Carolina.

Owned and operated by Steve Presnell. Steve started in the logging industry in 1979 with Ted Pack Logging, a name that many across the state know. After 23 years with Ted, Steve was given the opportunity to be the foreman of the logging crew for Blue Ridge Wood Products. In 2006, Steve went out on his own. He started Presnell Logging, Inc. Steve started with a 170 Franklin grapple skidder, a 210 Prentice knuckleboom loader, and several chainsaws.

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Greg Helton, FMIC Representative & Presnell Logging, Inc. Logger of the Year ceremony Morganton, North Carolina

He purchased a 1980 Kenworth road tractor and a trailer from Ted and begin his journey.

He began logging for Bristol Industries and soon started working for S & L Sawmill and Pine Log Co. In 2008, Steve purchased his first feller-buncher, an 885 Barko. Two years later, he was able to buy his first track feller-buncher, a 445 Timco.

Over the past 41 years of logging, Steve says the greatest change in the logging industry has been the mechanization of the process. It has made the job a lot safer for the employees. Since becoming a part of FMIC in 2008, Presnell Logging has had a 0% Loss Ratio.

Along with the mechanized equipment, Steve has had good employees working for him. Jimmy Prichard on the loader, James Coleman on the skidder, and David Bollinger and Jerry Huskins in the trucks. Several of these guys have been with Steve for many years. One more name to mention is Gary Clontz. Gary worked for Steve for many years and was a huge part of the crew. Gary passed away this year, but his memory remains.

Forestry Mutual is very pleased with Presnell Logging, Inc. and their achievements in appreciating the cost savings associated with quality and safety and creating a safe work environment for its company. Their hard work and safety-mindedness continue to pay dividends, making them great ambassadors for our industry. ~FMIC

~ Congratulations ~ Presnell Logging, Inc. 2020 Logger of the Year

Steve Presnell, Presnell Logging, Inc. Logger of the Year ceremony Morganton, North Carolina FMIC FALL 2021

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SAW SHOP

BY BRYAN WAGNER CHAINSAW & LOGGING SAFETY TRAINER

Hello everyone! Last quarter we talked about proper face-notching. Remember, both cuts of the notch must meet. When we face-notch a tree, we are actually setting up the hinge length. The notch must be at least 80% of the tree’s diameter. That means you will have hinge-wood across at least 80% of the stump if you don’t “bore” the heart.

The hinge has two essential functions. Hinge-wood tries to keep the falling stem from rebounding if an object is struck on the way to the ground. The notch angle will tell the hinge when to release.

We try to use a 70 – 90-degree notch angle. The “open-face” notch allows the hinge to control the stem through most of its controlled fall to the ground. The theory is, the energy to rebound has been spent. The hinge on a tree serves as the steering wheel. An accurate face-notch leads to a precise hinge set. Accuracy is a significant safety issue in any felling scenario. Accurate felling in a select-cut, or SMZ felling, keeps the timber-cutter safe from being struck by falling or thrown objects.

If you don’t brush or hit surrounding timber, nothing gets thrown back at you! The tree goes where the hinge tells it to. This is great if the hinge holds! If the hinge-wood breaks, the tree will go to where the tree is heavy too!

Remember, the weighted side of the tree is the BAD-SIDE! Your body needs to stay on the good side as much as possible.

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OK, now let’s talk about hinge thickness.

The basic rule is 1/10th of the Diameter at Breast Height, DBH. Using the formula, a 20” DBH tree would need a 2-inch hinge maximum.

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If we go thicker, some fiber pull may happen.

The next question is, what species of tree are you cutting? Long fibered trees such as Sweet Gum and Yellow Pine don’t usually require the maximum hinge thickness. Their fiber is flexible and works well. Short-fibered trees such as White Pine or Soft Maple usually will be given the maximum “called for” hinge thickness. Short-natured fiber can break before it bends!

To sum up hinge thickness, I will usually use one inch of hinge on a 20” DBH Sweet Gum. If the same tree was a Soft Maple, I would possibly go with a 2-inch hinge.

Forestry Mutual requires hinge-wood to be continuous across the stump, or if the situation exists, the timber-cutter can center-cut the tree and leave

HINGE THE

(2) corners. I will “punch’ the center of a tree if the diameter is more than twice the bar length or if I have a “high-dollar” that can’t have pulled fiber.

On a closing note, make sure your hinge is “set” in good wood. Root fiber doesn’t have the strength to control the tree’s fall to the ground.

Make sure your face-notch is set behind the root fiber and is in “good wood.”

OK, let’s change the subject. I can’t talk enough about a full canopy of leaves in the woods!!

Visibility in the winter months is usually good. A quick look-up can reveal danger from above.

Now, with the fresh green leaves, we really need to look for overhead hazards. I would recommend going over the “Heads-Up” program for your next safety meeting.

- Use approved personal protective equipment (PPE) for head protection. Look and scan at least 50 feet ahead on your path of travel.

- Look and scan at least 100 feet ahead for overhead hazards.

- Don’t place yourself under any object that can fall or move due to gravity or the loss of hydraulic pressure.

- Maintain at least two tree lengths from any felling operation.

- Be visible!! Wear high visibility safety colors.

- Maintain communication with anyone in the work area.

- Never walk into a work area with running or moving equipment until the equipment is stopped, engine cut-off, and implements grounded.

Use proper manual felling techniques. Accurate directional felling avoids risk in the manual felling process.

- Constantly scan for all hazards!! Avoid slick bark, logs, or limbs. Stump holes, rocks, and vines are to be considered safety risks.

- Wear high visibility safety colors. Be seen!!

Where have you heard that before?!

- When not cutting, the chain brake of the chainsaw must be engaged. More than two steps with a running chainsaw require the chain brake to be activated.

- Stay on the “uphill” side of felled timber and stems.

- AGAIN, constantly scan for risks and hazards that could result in injury!!

As always, if we can help your safety program in any way, please call. It is our pleasure to help. Next time we will discuss the escape and the back-cut plans during the felling process.

Until next time, be safe, LOOK-UP AGAIN!! ~FMIC

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LEGENDS OF FMIC Paul Davis

Former Board Member FMIC

In May of this year, Forestry Mutual Insurance announced at its board of directors meeting in Asheville, North Carolina, the creation of the Paul Davis Distinguished Service Award. Forestry Mutual created this award to bring focus and thanks to the individuals who made a lasting contribution to the industry and Forestry Mutual.

Paul Davis received his award from Michael Walters, Chairman, and Keith Biggs, President of Forestry Mutual.

Our Legends of FMIC articles will focus on Paul Davis and the first recipient of his award, Jim Sitts, for their lifetime of dedication and superior service on our board.

Paul Davis was born in Southern Cleveland County, North Carolina, in 1937 and growing up with his two brothers and two sisters on a 130-acre cotton

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farm. Their family farmed, like many family farms during the Great Depression, were self-sufficient.

Paul remembers clearly, “we had eight mules, three milk cows, three or four hogs, and usually twenty to 30 chickens. We grew cotton, which was the cash crop, but also corn, oats, and hay for the mules”.

Leaving home for college, Paul graduated from NC State in 1959 with a degree in forest management.

Like most who took forestry in college, you intern with the US Forest Service during the summers.

Paul worked in Cherokee National Forest in Etowah, Tennessee, and Robbinsville, North Carolina, for the Nantahala National Forest. Paul says, “he always liked being in the woods. Working in the woods. As a kid, what time I had when not farming, I went into the forest for any reason”. Paul accepted a position in 1960 working with the NC Forest Service.

For the next four years, Paul spent his time creating management plans and marking timber. “We did a lot of timber marking back then,” Paul says, “which we don’t do much anymore because it’s time-consuming to mark every tree you’re going to take out.”

He continues, “but we did back then, and we wrote a lot of management plans for the landowners.”

In 1964 Paul left and started South Mountain Pulpwood company.

I could have listened to Paul tell stories about how logging was done 60+ years ago all afternoon. One continued on page 18

LEGENDS OF FMIC Jim Sitts

Former Board Member FMIC Jim Sitts, former Forestry Mutual Insurance Company board member and the first recipient of the Paul Davis Distinguished Service Award in May of 2020.

Jim was born in Gloversville, New York, and growing up in rural New York, Jim spent all of his free time in the woods. When he was old enough to drive, he was off with his friends camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, trapping, or whatever they could do to be outdoors. Jim and his friends would take off for a week to camp and trap with snow still on the ground during spring break.

Being in the woods was just natural for Jim. Jim first attended Paul Smiths College, a small private college located in the central Adirondack Mountains of New York State. After two years at Paul Smiths, Jim graduated in 1968 with an Associate Degree in Forestry. He then transferred to NC State University and graduated in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Forest Management.

I discovered during our interview that Jim has always had an infinity to be outdoors and truly enjoys being in the woods and watch the land mature. Not only the trees but the wildlife as well.

While touring his property during our interview, we stopped numerous times to watch the deer and fowl that called his land home. We took a short walk,

and you could sense that being out walking in the woods is where Jim belonged. He was at home and at peace in the forest.

I discovered that Jim had an exciting career that revolved around the wood products industry. From his first jobs during summer breaks in college, pruning trees on a plantation in the Adirondack Mountains, marking timber for International Paper Company in Maine and conducting controlled burns in Washington State.

Graduating NC State in 1970 and after a job in New York State buying White Ash logs for a baseball bat manufacturer, Jim ended up with Weyerhaeuser as a District Forester in Plymouth, North Carolina, with his new wife, Margaret, also affectionately known as “Chip.” She was an avid horse lover, and they had horses their entire life together. Chip passed away a few years ago, and Jim cares for their horses on their family farm.

Jim talked about when you’re a young forester, you get to do all the jobs nobody else wants to do. One of those jobs was to be a tour guide for an American Pulpwood Association field tour that Weyerhaeuser hosted. On this tour, during the lunch break, Jim met Bert Carlson on the front stoop of a small church. It was this meeting and maybe fate that eventually had Jim working for Champion International in western North Carolina. One day, Jim, continued on page 19 FMIC FALL 2021

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LEGENDS OF FMIC Paul Davis

Former Board Member FMIC

tale was about how they would hand load rail cars with timber. “It was all handwork, where you cut and trimmed trees with chainsaws and axes, cut them into five foot lengths and hauled them to a rail siding.

You then loaded the wood by hand onto rail-cars for shipment to the mills.” I was left with the impression that Paul enjoyed the physical activity of logging.

1971 North Carolina Forestry Association was trying to help loggers get insurance. In those early days, “safety” was an unfamiliar term to most in the wood industry and there were a lot of accidents and injuries. Many could not get insurance in the wood industry. NCFA was trying to figure out some way to help more loggers to get insurance, leading to the creation of the North Carolina Self-insurers Fund. Paul remembers that Ed Pittman, who worked with Weyerhaeuser, was familiar with the insurance industry and agreed to take on the project and create the North Carolina Self-Insurers Fund. Paul says, “it was a long process in getting it set up because nobody knew how to do it. They got with Hewitt Coleman, an administrator for the self-insurers funds, and NCFA worked with them to set up the framework.”

Paul recollects on some of the challenges that he and Jim Sitts, with the entire board, faced in those early years. He says “that one of the insights Jim and

I brought to the board was a perspective of insurance needed by the small logger. Out in western North Carolina it was much different than in the East. In the East, it’s big producers, a lot of machinery. It was not like that in the west.” Paul comments, “There is not a lot of mechanized logging, and a lot is done by hand up in the mountains.”

Paul is proud of the direction that the Self-Insurers took and becoming Forestry Mutual Insurance. Paul says, “Forestry Mutual methods of managing the company are much different now than they were in the beginning. Now they are mainly focused on safety, spending more time working with loggers, more so than we did initially, and more staff. It’s a lot better company.” Paul laughs, “When the Fund first started out, all of our records for the company were carried in a briefcase by the chairman. No office. Mr. Pittman did it with his one-foot-wide briefcase.”

When asked what he sees for the future of the industry? Paul says, “on the producer end, on the in-woods end, our loggers are not being replaced by younger people. I see that as a problem in the future because nobody replaces the ones that are dying out.” He continues. “Everything’s going to mechanization and mechanization is so expensive that it’s virtually impossible for a young man to get into the wood business naturally.” Paul pauses, “Where we used to get out there with a chainsaw and a pickup truck, now you got to have $300,000 to $500,000 just to get started.”

Paul asked, “Do I know how to make a logger a millionaire?” I said no, Paul said, “give him 2-million”.

Thank you, Paul, for your time, dedication, and service to making Forestry Mutual the company it is today. It could not be the success it is without you. ~FMIC

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continued from page 19

LEGENDS OF FMIC Jim Sitts

Former Board Member FMIC

Jim Sitts and his horse “Radah” Photo Credit: FMIC Staff Photographer

still the young forester, was asked by his supervisor to attend a Hardwood Research Council conference, and it’s while at that conference that Jim met Walt Smith, a consultant with Columbia Forest Products.

It took Columbia several years to begin the process of building a mill in Old Fort, North Carolina. Before building the new mill, Andy Honzel, owner of Columbia, while riding with Jim, checking property, offered Jim the Timber Manager position for the new facility. Jim took the job and felt that Andy and Columbia, felt like family. He was home. Jim says that Andy was one of the greatest people to work for. Jim worked for Columbia for thirty-eight years, overseeing Columbia’s timber operations in North Carolina, West Virginia and Kentucky. He says his time with Columbia was a great ride, and it was hard for him to retire.

Jim says that George Pace, former Chairman of the Board for Forestry Mutual was an inspiration to him over the years. He met George early on in his career while working with Weyerhaeuser. Later, while working for Champion, Jim had attended a few of the North Carolina Forestry Association meetings.

He jokes, Again, because somebody else didn’t want to go. Send the young guy. He met many people involved in North Carolina’s Forest Products Industry that way, and what he’s learned over the years in his life is that it’s the contacts you make and the people you know more than anything else that will advance you in life. It’s about showing up, taking a chance. Taking a risk. Jim says you make it work out. It’s hard work. It’s a lot of sweat. But it’s not luck. You spell luck S-W-E-A-T. That’s how you spell luck.

You can say that Ed Pitman, who started the North Carolina Self-Insurers Fund, had put a lot of sweat into creating what is now Forestry Mutual Insurance

Company. Jim met Ed in the early 70’s while Ed was at Weyerhaeuser as their safety manager. Jim reflects that everyone dreaded to see Ed show up on the job because Ed was so picky about safety. He would go out and look…and they had their own logging crews back then, and he would go out on the logging jobs, and he would just find one thing after another. And he had the authority to make them stop working.

And so, they just dreaded it when Ed would come out on the job. But he was all about safety.

In 1985, while talking with Bill Kale, the Executive Director of the NC Self-Insurers fund, about how Columbia had all of their loggers insured, Bill mentioned he had an opening on the board and invited Jim to join. Jim thinks that the first board meeting he went to was in Wilmington, and George Pace had joined the board simultaneously.

Jim says that outside of Columbia, being on the board was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. Because we did so many good things. We weren’t in it to make money. He says, “I mean, we had to make money…it had to be run like a business because you had to keep the business alive. But the idea was to provide cost-effective insurance for the loggers.” He continues, “there’s no telling how much money Forestry Mutual has saved loggers across the South because all the insurance had to follow what they were doing.” Jim says, “Forestry Mutual’s the only company that provides loss control and a safe work ethic. No one else does that. Forestry Mutual is different. They came out and tried to help you keep from having that accident. They really wanted you to go home the way you came to work at the end of the day. I was proud to be associated with an organization like that, and Keith Biggs is doing such a great job with the company.” ~FMIC FMIC FALL 2021

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It is with great pleasure that Forestry Mutual Insurance Company announces the South Carolina E. K. Pittman Safety Award 2020 Logger of the Year Award. The award is named in honor of the first Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Forestry Mutual and presented to those companies chosen by the President and staff of Forestry Mutual based on their safety record and continued emphasis on safety in the workplace.

This is Forestry Mutuals’ most prestigious award. Mr. Pittman served from 1971-1984 and was a strong proponent of Safety Training & Education and the use of personal protective equipment. This safety award recognizes businesses that show a genuine concern for the safety of their workers by going beyond the minimum safety requirements to ensure a safe and productive workplace.

The award recipient for this honor this year is Hicks Logging of Florence, SC. The receipt has held their insurance with Forestry Mutual since 2011. Hicks Logging is owned and operated by L.B. Hicks, his son Danny Hicks, and his son-in-law Earnest Daniels. Mr. L.B. Hicks started this company in 1970 when an acquaintance offered Mr. L.B. an opportunity to buy him out, and Mr. L.B. jumped at the opportunity and has never looked back in over 50 years of being in business.

Mr. LB is 83 years young and still goes to the woods nearly every day he can. He also is very hands-on in helping his daughter-in-law Joyce Hicks with the paperwork end of the logging business. Mr. LB is always quick to offer an acquaintance one of his famous good writing pens with his business logo on it when someone stops by for a visit.

It’s just a simple gesture but sure goes a long way in today’s world. Mr. L.B. Hicks is the epitome of what it is to be a true Southern Gentleman that strives to make those around him better. Through many trials and tribulations, the company has overcome adverse situations many times. Mr. L.B. Hicks credits many of the companies’ accomplishments to his logging crew and family. He understands the importance of strategic

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Danny and Joyce Hicks Logger of the Year ceremony Florence, South Carolina

relationships and fostering those relationships to benefit his operations and the perception of the entire logging community. The company agrees that having a mindset of proactive vs. reactive helps put their operations out front.

Involvement in associations like the South Carolina Timber Producers Association and being TOP logger trained, these guys understand the importance of supporting their profession. Hicks Logging LLC has been a Forestry Mutual policyholder for ten years and has yet to file a lost-time claim. Through hard work and safety mindfulness, it continues to save them dividends, making them a great role model for our industry. ~FMIC

Mr. L.B. Hicks, Greg Hutson and Phillip Sligh, Logger of the Year ceremony Florence, South Carolina

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FMIC PROFILE Jim McCraney Loss Control Representative

Jim McCraney Loss Control Representative Kevin Williams Jerry G. Williams and Sons Lumber, Inc. Photo Credit: FMIC Staff Photographer 22

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Jim has been with Forestry Mutual Insurance since 2001. After serving 23 years in the US Air Force, he joined the Mutual for his intensive knowledge/ inspector background of OSHA requirements.

Between his Air Force background and Forestry Mutual tenure, he has been training and educating employees on safe work practices for over 40 years.

moving parts, ensuring protective guards are in position, and looking for bad habits that employees may practice that he can share with policyholders.

Jim calls it observation, communication, and employer information to keep employees safe.

Jim’s first 18 years with the Mutual was as a Sawmill/Manufacture trainer, where he worked with over 800 Policyholders. Then in 2019, he assumed full-time responsibilities in the Mecklenburg County Region as a Field Representative responsible for over 96 policyholders. Jim has made an enormous impact on the success of Forestry Mutual, and he is not done. His attention to inspection detail and professional approach to workplace safety concerns has earned his policyholders trust in safety inspections and has been a benchmark success in his career.

One way to keep our policyholders compliant with Forestry Mutual and OSHA is to conduct a mock OSHA inspections, as Jim says. “My mock OSHA inspections do the same assessment that OSHA would conduct. After a workplace inspection, I provide policyholders with a written assessment of their operations that may require some form of corrective action.” Jim continues, “If not corrected could result in fines and penalties that could be very costly.” Jim said, “that in the twenty years of working with Forestry Mutual, he has conducted over 4,900 safety inspections, training visits, mock OSHA inspections, and has the original record for each one.”

In 2001, Forestry Mutual had many furniture and sawmill manufacturing policyholders that Jim visited. Assisting them in establishing company safety programs and providing OSHA training requirements led to him to know policyholders on a first-name basis. Jim says, “Providing safety training earns a sense of respect and builds a relationship that leads to a welcomed visit for an inspection of their operations.”

FMIC has always, from the beginning, set the standard in safe workplace education and employee training.

We caught up with Jim while visiting Jerry G. Williams and Sons Lumber, Inc. (one of FMIC’s largest sawmills policyholders) in Smithfield, North Carolina. Kevin Williams, a 3rd generation owner, gave Jim and I a tour of the sawmill operations.

His sawmill produces 15 million board feet of lumber per year that goes into furniture, flooring, decking, and pallets. Kevin noted we let nothing go to waste. Our production yields many by-products, including paper-quality wood chips, bio-fuel sawdust, and residential-grade bark mulch. We have provided bio-fuels to surrounding businesses for years. Kevin adds that “he has enjoyed working with Forestry Mutual and that we work great together.”

While on our inspection of their sawmill, Jim says “that he is here to visit and see what he can do to assist Kevin in maintaining safe sawmill operations and OSHA-compliant requirements.” Jim says that whenever he is walking a mill, he’s looking for

When you conduct a sawmill inspection, Jim calls it a log/lumber break-down process. You must observe and understand the mill processes (every sawmill has something different) from debarker to green chain or lumber sorter. You work your way through the process, looking for hazards that may injure employees. As all wood operations are different (sawmill, planer mill, pallet mill, furniture manufacture) in design, they are the same. The wood comes in raw and has to be transformed into a final product. It’s in that transformation process that you have a lot of moving parts in the woodworking operation. Machinery and equipment that has pinch points can maim or kill a person.

continued on page 29

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Forestry Mutual Insurance Company honored its Virginia Loggers of the Year with our E.K. Pittman Award for 2020 on July 23, 2021, in Alberta, Virginia. The honorees were Brian and Buck Calhoun, along with all the employees of Calhoun Enterprises of Alberta, VA.

The award is named in honor of the first Chairman of the Forestry Mutual Board of Trustees and presented to those companies chosen by the president and staff of Forestry Mutual based on their safety record and continued emphasis on safety in the workplace. This is Forestry Mutual’s most prestigious award.

Mr. Pittman served from 1971-1984 and was a strong proponent of Safety Training & Education and the use of Personal Protective Equipment.

The Logger of the Year Award recognizes only those top-performing logging companies that show a genuine concern for the safety of their organization and employees, as well as going above and beyond the basic safety requirements to ensure a safe and productive work environment.

Calhoun Enterprises has been a Forestry Mutual policyholder since 2015 and employs nearly 70 people.

Their safety record speaks for itself. Over the last six years as a policyholder, Calhoun Enterprises has had a loss ratio of under 3%. An impressive feat for a company that runs five crews, chips, grinds, buys timber,

Brian Calhoun, Keith Biggs, Buck Calhoun & Shawn Faulks Logger of the Year ceremony Alberta, Virginia Photo Credit: FMIC Staff Photographer 24

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operates a mulch plant, runs 30 trucks with mechanics that keep the operations running.

Calhoun Enterprises is one of those operations you immediately recognize as you are drive by. With all their moving parts on a logging site and the number of employees, you can see the value they have for safety.

Before starting out in his Logging venture in 2005, Brian had built up a Landscaping business that he started when he was 16 years old. This business led him to purchase a mulch plant in Alberta, which has more than doubled in size. From Calhoun Enterprises’ humble beginning by following local loggers with a chipper and grinder, cleaning up cutovers, to where they are today, with five logging crews, is a testament to what excellent work ethic and dedication can accomplish. Great work ethic, faith, and determination to succeed, as well as Buck’s excellent managing skills, have made Calhoun Enterprises a well-known and respected Timber, Mulch, and Logging operation in Virginia.

Forestry Mutual provides extensive loss control services and is proud to serve Brian and Buck Calhoun, their family, and employees. It is just not every day that a policyholder can guarantee the service in return. Calhoun Enterprise exemplifies how a logging company can be productive and safe through proper and stable safety programs. ~FMIC FMIC FALL 2021

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THE

RISK ASSESSMENT

STEPPING UP TO THE CAMERA

By David McLean Region 3 Field Representative

At Forestry Mutual, while one of our goals is to keep the cost of workers’ compensation claims low, our primary goal for our members and their employees is preventing injuries and fatalities from occurring at all. We sincerely strive for every policyholder and employee to return home each day in the same condition as when they left home that morning.

With that goal in mind, Forestry Mutual has always been a strong supporter of safety training efforts.

While we have often supported other organizations with their training efforts, direct training from the Forestry Mutual staff has been and will continue to be our leading method of educating others on safe work methods and injury prevention. Over the past 50 years, our staff has developed an abundance of safety handouts, classroom training, presentations, and videos. We have conducted numerous training events directly with our policyholders as well as through cooperation with other associations in the forestry industry. All of this training has certainly paid off over the years in terms of reduced injuries.

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However, while we have seen good progress in reducing the number of claims, the costs of all claims have risen dramatically. We at Forestry Mutual know that continuing to do the same thing will produce the same result – and we therefore recognized a need to do something different to make an even more substantial impact in keeping our policyholders and their employees safe.

In the fall of 2018, we developed our Training Video Committee (TVC) to take the “next step” in enhancing our training program. The goal of this committee was to create short videos that were impactful – they needed to be “on target” with our audience. The TVC began with 5 members of our staff and eventually grew to 7 members as we realized the challenge, while well defined, was actually a major undertaking and would take

considerable effort. We also wanted this project to be ongoing and continue to develop training videos in the future.

The results of all the planning and effort were first produced slightly less than a year later, in the fall of 2019. Four videos were produced that addressed current-day issues by telling authentic stories of incidents that occurred among our policyholders.

Topics covered include Lock Out / Tag Out and proper felling techniques. These videos range from 3 minutes to 10 minutes long. They all tell real-life stories through reproducing the actual event and the lessons learned from others’ mistakes. The first four videos were so well-received by our Board of Directors and our policyholders that the TVC was challenged to produce additional videos covering more current-day topics. As a result, 3 additional videos were produced in 2020 that cover issues such as trailer landing gear hazards, truck accidents, three points of contact, and proper load securing.

As with most projects, the results get better and better! Again, this next round of videos ranges from 3 – 10 minutes and are true stories of actual injuries and lessons learned.

SO WHAT’S NEXT?

Our next round of videos is still under development.

As with previous videos, our goal is to address the hottest safety issues that our members are facing.

Safe driving is one such topic that we will be addressing in the near future, along with other current challenges. Forestry Mutual is proud of the results of our TVC Committee. We strongly believe their work will continue to enhance our training program through these reproductions of real-life

events. We appreciate the time and effort of these committee members, who clearly demonstrate the commitment of Forestry Mutual to provide a safer work environment for our policyholders and their employees through training and education.

We encourage all of our members to contact their Forestry Mutual Field Representative to view any or all of these videos. Our staff will be more than happy to show these videos to you, and your employees and hopefully make your operation safer today and in the future! ~FMIC

VIDEOS AVAILABLE FOR TRAINING:

- Felling Fatality - Cutterman’s Mistake - Chipper Fatality - Handrail Fatality - A Bad Day for Goodsons All Terrain - Morning Coffee – Driver Issues - Landing Gear H FMIC FALL 2021

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C.O.I. AND A.I. WHAT IS WHAT?

By Jack Williams

Our job as agents is to protect you!

AGENCY CORNER

As an agent, I’m often approached by clients requesting to issue documentation providing proof of coverage or extending coverage to third parties they do business with. Issuing certificates, either proof of coverage listing the third party as “certificate holder” or extending coverage through “additional insured” status is a core service that agencies provide daily, BUT do you understand what you’re signing up for when requesting that coverage be extended to a third party? Let’s dive into this topic a little bit with some basics that will hopefully broaden your insurance knowledge.

have a service performed for them should always at the very least request a C.O.I. to make sure that the party they’re doing business with is covered for the liability of the service being provided. This is a sound business practice that most companies follow.

However, something to keep in mind is that “certificate holders” are NOT notified if the coverage either lapses or is canceled. For example, let’s say you hire a subcontract hauler for a three-month contract beginning October 1st. Well, on October 1st, the sub-hauler did have commercial auto coverage, but what happens if the hauler allows his coverage to lapse on November 1st? Odds are you won’t be notified by the sub-hauler as insurance documents and contracts are in the rearview mirror of the job at hand. Now, let’s say this sub-hauler gets into an auto accident and not only injures the other driver but totals out the other vehicle…now what?

CERTIFICATE OF COVERAGE (C.O.I.)

A certificate of insurance “C.O.I.” is proof of coverage, the official documentation issued by an agent which verifies to the certificate holder (the third party requesting proof of coverage) that “You” do in fact carry the limits requested by the certificate holder at the date of issuance. Business owners that contract with any third party whether to perform a service or

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Jack Williams Agent, FMIC Insurance Company Photo Credit: FMIC Staff Photographer

continued from page 23 Well, you now become liable for that accident.

But, what if, before signing the contract with the sub-hauler, you requested “additional insured” status?

ADDITIONAL INSURED STATUS (A.I.)

Additional insured status is a provision to include as an insured “any person or organization that the named insured (you) is obligated by virtue of a written contract or agreement to provide insurance such as is afforded by this policy and is approved by the company in writing.” Additional insureds are extended coverage under the sub-haulers policy, which means that in the scenario above, where coverage either lapsed or canceled mid contract and the logger wasn’t notified and ultimately became liable for the auto accident, the logger would now be notified and could terminate the contract immediately.

So often, clients ask that we add a third party as additional insured when they only need proof of coverage or request that we provide proof of coverage when the additional insured status is required. The easiest way to avoid these issues is to have a conversation with your agent and ask questions if you aren’t sure about what the other party is requesting; our job as agents is to protect you! ~FMIC

Meet Jack Williams, FMIC Agent for Mississippi Jack has been in the insurance business for 16+ years, originating in retail, commercial insurance before joining Forestry Mutual. Jack wanted a challenge and a change in his career. A challenge and change that Forestry Mutual was able to offer.

Jack feels very lucky to have found a company like FMIC that has allowed him to build a new career and growth opportunities in his home state of Mississippi.

Jack grew up in Hattiesburg, MS, married to Sara for fifteen years, has two boys who enjoy sports and robotics, and are parishioners at St. James Catholic Church in Gulfport, Mississippi. ~FMIC

FMIC PROFILE Loss Control Representative

Jim McCraney

Jim McCraney Loss Control Representative Kevin Williams Jerry G. Williams and Sons Lumber, Inc.

I asked Jim what was the biggest concern he observes when visiting the policyholder? “The biggest concern that I’ve observed over the years as a safety trainer/field rep is equipment/machinery Lockout – Tagout requirement.” He continues, “that has been our #1 issue and is why FMIC has a Zero Tolerance policy for employees servicing machinery. We’ve come a long way, and I’ve not observed a machinery lockout violation in quite some time. But we remain diligent of machinery lockout concerns during all visits with policyholders”.

Jim concluded my interview by including. “When you work as a safety trainer/field rep in our industry, driving comes with the territory. I have driven over 900,000 miles visiting our policyholders.” I did a little research, and it’s 238,900 miles to the moon.

Jim has driven to the moon and back and is going back again. Jim has been instrumental to the success of Forestry Mutual and our policyholders. Jim says, “My wife Vicky, which we have been happily married for 42 years, the love of my life, continues to support me through all the days/years away from home in his providing assistance to our policyholders”. He added that they have three great children (Brandon, Brent, Ashley) and nine fantastic grandchildren.”

But, I’m confident that being married to Jim for 42 years…Vicky wished that Jim actually went to the moon! ~FMIC

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FMIC

KITCHEN CHICKEN BREAST W/SHIITAKE MUSHROOM CREAM SAUCE

Bryan Wagner shares one recipe that uses his home grown Shiitake Mushrooms.

A little background history on Shiitake mushrooms.

Shiitake mushrooms are one of the most popular mushrooms worldwide. They are prized for their rich, savory taste and diverse health benefits.

Compounds in shiitake may help fight cancer, boost immunity, and support heart health. Shiitake are native to East Asia. They’re tan to dark brown, with caps that grow between 2 and 4 inches. While typically eaten like vegetables, shiitake are fungi that grow naturally on decaying hardwood trees.

-Which, Bryan has woodpiles at his home just for this reasonAround 83% of shiitake are grown in Japan, although the United States, Canada, Singapore, and China produce them. Eating shiitake mushrooms regularly may help boost your immune system.

THE RECIPE

The secret to a good cream sauce is always the same: not too much cream, or it can be overpowering, masking the more delicate flavors. Here it contains a bountiful amount of shiitake mushrooms and is served over chicken breasts. Add your favorite pasta to tailor this meal for your tastes.

STEP 1

Season chicken with pepper and salt on both sides.

STEP 2

Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook, turning once or twice and adjusting the heat to prevent burning until brown.

An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165 degrees F, 12 to 16 minutes. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

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STEP 3

Add shallots to the pan and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add mushrooms; cook, occasionally stirring, until tender, about 2 minutes.

Pour in wine; simmer until almost evaporated, scraping up any browned bits, about 1 minute.

Pour in broth and cook until reduced by half, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in cream and scallions; return to a simmer.

Return the chicken to the pan, turn to coat with sauce and cook until heated through about 1 minute.

Serving Size: 3 Oz. Chicken & 1/4 Cup Sauce

INGREDIENTS

2 4-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breasts ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper ¼ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 medium shallot, minced 1 cup thinly sliced shiitake mushroom caps 2 tablespoons dry white wine ¼ cup reduced-sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons heavy cream 2 tablespoons minced scallion greens

Did you know … YOU COULD BE HELD LIABLE … whether you have 1 or 100 truck drivers – you are responsible for maintaining the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines.

Over the past few years, we have witnessed a few of our Policyholders face civil and criminal penalties because they failed to follow FMCSA guidelines as it pertains to record-keeping, specifically targeting the Driver Qualification (D.Q.) Files. In all cases, our policyholders' driver was involved in a serious accident that required further investigation by the responsible law enforcement of their State. Upon investigation, in those cases, it had been discovered that the truck drivers were operating with expired CDL Drivers' Licenses and, in some cases, with expired DOT Med Cards, which also disqualifies the CDL Drivers' License. In all cases, the owner of the trucking operation was found guilty of not maintaining D.Q. Files for which copies are required. A list of all required D.Q. items can be found at www.fmcsa.dot.gov website. It is not the responsibility of your insurance agent to maintain D.Q. Files for your operation; it is the sole responsibility of the business owner. It is also the truck driver's responsibility to maintain a valid CDL Drivers' License and DOT Med Card.

SO WHAT IF I AM NOT DOING THE ABOVE????

Part 383 COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE STANDARDS; REQUIREMENTS AND PENALTIES § 383.53: Penalties. (a) General rule. Any person who violates the rules set forth in subparts B and C of this part may be subject to civil or criminal penalties as provided for in 49 U.S.C. 521(b).

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO: • • • •

•

Maintain a D.Q. File for each driver – full list of requirements can be found on the FMCSA website.

Ensure a current copy of CDL Driver License – maintain a control log to track expiration dates.

Ensure a current copy of DOT Med Card – maintain a control log to track expiration dates.

Must have a copy of MVR: You must request and approve and keep a copy of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) for every CDL driver. o Also, make sure that your insurance carrier approves the driver's MVR before letting them drive. o If you must create another business name where an alternate auto carrier can provide a driverdesignated policy for a driver because that one particular driver would not be approved by your major carrier, you need to do a little more research to ensure that driver is a good risk for your business. o MVR's must also be reviewed annually, but you must keep the original one from the driver date of hire. o Your insurance agent is not responsible for keeping these records…YOU ARE. Drug tests are required by Law: All trucking operations must have a drug testing policy. All CDL drivers must be tested prior to employment and then be entered into a random testing program. Also, post-accident tests must be performed.

Please contact your Forestry Mutual Field Representative if you require more information, such as a complete list of what is required in the D.Q. File. They are willing and ready to assist you. Education is knowledge, and it takes knowledge to protect yourself from the ever-increasing risk level and the liabilities you face daily.

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RALEIGH OFFICE STAFF Keith Biggs

Coy Baker

Brittany Rhinehart

Jean-Paul Damé (JP) Jenny Clawson

Robin Utley Amy Almond Nancy White

Kim Richmond

LOSS CONTROL STAFF

Greg Plumley

Jordan Rose

Brian Macanka David McLean Greg Helton

Jimmy McCraney Shawn Fulks

Chris Hudson Philip Sligh

Jeremy Helton Paul Dyess

Jason Townley

Justin Guyer

Bryan Wagner

FMIC AGENCY STAFF

Nick Carter

Susan Ogden

Eddie Campbell Chris Huff

Alan Schaefer Jack Williams Greg Hutson

Chris Covington

Emma Turner Sheila Earls

Lindsey Burns

Pamela Foreman Melanie McKee Thea Barber

Judy Angley

TITLE

DIRECT PHONE

President

919-880-1006

Project Manager

919-747-7596

brhinehart@forestrymutual.com

919-760-4815

jclawson@forestrymutual.com

919-747-7513

aalmond@forestrymutual.com

919-747-7514

krichmond@forestrymutual.com

Operations Manager Communications Director

Policy Services Representative

919-747-7511 919-747-7712

EMAIL kbiggs@forestrymutual.com

cbaker@forestrymutual.com

jpdame@forestrymutual.com

rutley@forestrymutual.com

Policy Services Representative

919-747-7512

Controller

919-760-4961

TITLE

DIRECT PHONE

Director of Loss Control

804- 712-5007

gplumley@forestrymutual.com

Region 1 Field Representative

919-631-1827

bmacanka@forestrymutual.com

828-442-3143

ghelton@forestrymutual.com

Chief Financial Officer Accountant

Region 1 Field Representative Region 3 Field Representative Region 5 Field Representative

Region 6 Field Representative

919-208-7604 910-303-0396

nwhite@forestrymutual.com

EMAIL

jrose@forestrymutual.com

dmclean@forestrymutual.com

704-301-2919

jmccraney@forestrymutual.com

540-392-3997

chudson@forestrymutual.com

731-225-2087

jhelton@forestrymutual.com

478-796-1453

jtownley@forestrymutual.com

TITLE

252-916-3376

DIRECT PHONE

bwagner@forestrymutual.com

Agency Manager

803-669-1003

ncarter@forestrymutual.com

Agent

919-770-6132

ecampbell@forestrymutual.com

912-414-9778

aschaefer@forestrymutual.com

843-324-4728

ghutson@forestrymutual.com

Region 10 Field Representative

Region 11 Field Representative

Region 20 Field Representative Region 30 Field Representative Region 40 Field Representative Region 41 Field Representative

Region 50 Field Representative

Chainsaw & Logging Safety Trainer

Accountant Agent

Agent

Agent Agent

Account Manager

Account Manager Account Manager Account Manager Account Manager

Account Representative

Account Representative

Account Representative

434-755-1004 843-244-0487 912-944-7274 731-343-1936

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