A MESSAGE FROM JOHN CHRISTNER Spring is upon us and we should be just about out of the weather that created havoc with schedules this winter. One of our long time drivers, Amos Johnson, retired last month at the age of 82 having been with JCT for 23 years! We celebrate his dedicated service and wish him an enjoyable, well deserved retirement. Jim Gomez retired last month as well after more than 28 years and Jim Redwine who’s career with us stretched more than 17 years retired as well. Having employees with this kind of tenure proves just how special a place JCT is. Thank you Amos, Jim G. and Jim R. for working so hard to make JCT so special. Be well!
OUR EMPLOYEES
W H AT E V E R
IT TAK E S
Rebecca Dobson nominates John Wayne Christner for the April “Whatever It Takes” award Rebecca said, “Since his arrival I have noticed John Wayne’s upbeat attitude. He comes in and says hello to everybody regardless of their position within the company. He has reached out by phone to drivers introducing himself and having genuine conversations. I have personally witnessed him taking the time to talk to drivers in person for at least an hour. He has been through each department learning what each position does. His friendly, upbeat attitude is infectious and has improved overall morale within the company: across all departments. These attributes assist in making both drivers and on-site employees feel appreciated and valued.” John Wayne will be honored with a trophy, a “Whatever It Takes” designated parking space in front of the building, and a $50 QuikTrip gas card. He will also have the honor of naming next month’s “Whatever It Takes” winner.
NEW HIRES
Chaderick Hankins
Wendy Waites
Zach Kubusch
John Stevens
Connie Gasteklum Logistics Support
Amy Aguilera
Logistics Coordinator
not pictured
not pictured
not pictured
Breakdown Operator
Tractor Mechanic
Maintenance Clerk
J I M AN D J IM , Y O U ’ L L BE M ISSE D.
Shop Supervisor and Shop Foreman doing a hard day’s work of clearing ice off a loaded trailer.
OUR DRIVERS
H AVE A H APPY RE TIR E ME NT, AM OS J OHNSON!
IN MEMORY OF WILLIAM ARMSTRONG
“Bill was a great driver. He always had a smile for you and was a friend to everyone he met including all employees, customers and other drivers. He was truly one of those drivers who ate, slept and lived trucking 24/7. He drove for twenty-six years with fourteen years of those driving spent here at JCT. Bill loved his Family. He lived his life as a long-haul driver with his sidekick LiddeMan his dog. He drove to support his Family and never failed to mention just how much they all met to him. Throughout his driving career here at JCT, Bill accomplished many awards and accomplishments. Bill was a Million Mile Safety Award recipient in February 2012. He was nominated for Professional Driver of the Year at JCT on March 2017 and 2018 OTA Truck Driving Championships in Oklahoma City. Bill had accumulated over Two Million miles during his career at John Christner Trucking. To Bill’s Family, I am so sorry for your loss and know that our hearts ache for you as well.” Laura Watkins
2019 SAFETY AWARDS AND TRUCK DAY
Last month, at the Safety Awards Banquet held by the Oklahoma Trucking Association, JCT was proud to acknowledge this year’s Million Mile Drivers and Professional Driver nominees. We love our team of hard-working drivers; they do not back down from a challenge! JCT has been blessed with drivers who stay alert, solve problems, and get the job done. So we were more than happy to celebrate the years of quality service at the banquet. We would like to recognize and extend a big thank you to these shining examples of diligent labor and steadfast excellence: Professional Driver of the Year Parke Whitney DM Keith Sally said, “Mr. Parke Whitney has reflected a continued spirit of a wonderful person. He’s always been concerned and in tune with his responsibility of being a driver with the utmost integrity. And it is not only in handling a rig but with all aspects of trucking. He shows courtesy on the road and taking care of our customers. He has great loyalty to his profession and to JCT with safety as his his main priority. He is always willing to help and exercise his ability to be a knight of the road.”
Three Million Mile Cletus Zundell Charli Brown said, “Cletis James Zudel has been with JCT for almost 20 years; since 8/27/99. Currently he is our lead local driver for area 2 consisting of Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. He recently received his 3 Million Miles Safety Award from the Oklahoma Trucking Association. He currently has over 5 million miles with no accidents in his carreer. He has 3 children: Rayleyne, Donovan and Kandi. He has 3 granddaughters: Makenzie, Ellie, and Zoey James. His advise to other drivers: pick up on time and deliver on time and you will be sucessful at JCT. He also said to keep ziplock bags on your truck. Everytime you swap put the bills in the plastic bag for the next driver so they don’t get wet and/or oily. He lives in Washington and loves spending time with his family. In the summer, they love going to the lake for family get-togethers which include his mom and his 100 year old grandmother.
One Million Mile Milton Jenkins DM Scott Conrad said, “He’s been with JCT since June 2008 one of my best drivers: always willing to help other drivers and anyone here in the office. I’ve never known him to be late on a load. He is always positive, friendly, and represents JCT and the transportation industry in a truly professional manner.”
One Million Mile Ramon Guiterrez DM, Melissa Rathbone said, “Ramon is a devoted husband and father who strives for excellence in every aspect of his life. His unselfish devotion to JCT and to AZ has earned him the love and respect of everyone who knows him. I’m proud and blessed to work with him every day!”
JCT’s Parke Whitney, 2019 Oklahoma Driver of the Year, was praised with a standing ovation.
Truck Day at the Capitol is an annual event that helps get professional drivers in the legislature office. This year Million Mile and Professional Driver recipients met at the Capitol to be recognized by both the House and Senate. Before heading to the House gallery, everyone enjoyed a breakfast together. These drivers were referred to as “The Voice of Trucking”.
Those attending Truck Day at the Capitol on March 7th were Tracy Ross, Parke and Cindy Whitney, Walter Behringer, Billy Weimer, and Billy Wrenn.
SPECIAL DATES EMPLOYEE BIRTHDAYS 4/1
4/2
DRIVER BIRTHDAYS
Brandon Boudreaux, Breakdown Operator
4/1
Gunnar Crider,
4/2
Virginia Bell,
Maintenance Custodian
Customer Service Detention
Juan Orozco,
Trailer Refrigeration Tec
4/3 4/4
4/5
Amy Cason,
4/6
Glen Zornes,
4/14
Anthony Dorsey, Local Driver
4/15
Brian Ford,
4/16
Robert Kearney,
4/17
Deetta Bumgardner,
4/19
Christie Marlin,
AP Clerk Load Planner
Director of Fleet Management
4/5 4/6 4/8 4/9
Tractor Mechanic CS Night Operations
Logistics Support
Keith Sally, Fleet Manager 4/20
Shannon Crowley,
4/21
Sara Schremp,
Fleet Manager
4/22
Chick Beesley,
Shuttle Driver
4/23
Melody Lee,
4/25
Jacquelyn Noyes,
4/27
Jackson Conrad,
4/28
Patty Fender,
4/29
Laurel Maloy,
4/10 4/11 4/12
VP Risk Management
4/13 4/14
Customer Service Rep Carrier Settlement Clerk
4/16
Fleet Manager
CS Weekend Operations
4/17
Logistics Support
4/18
EMPLOYEE ANNIVERSARIES 4/19
4/1
Jim Gomez
23 years
4/4
Christopher Pena
3 years
4/5
Trish Boone
9 years
4/6
Brooke Johnson
4 years
4/7
Donald Morgan
5 years
4/11
Charles Demasi
16 years
4/14
John Christner
33 years
Tonya O’dell
11 years
4/16
Laura Watkins
17 years
4/18
Betty Smoot
16 years
4/27
Tyler Lay
1 year
4/29
Jonathan Ingram
17 years
4/30
Terra Smith
12 years
4/20 4/21
4/22 4/23 4/25 4/27 4/28 4/29
4/30
William Cary Francis Sill Nathan Shannon Wayne Beberness Nicholas Teague Tonya Johnson Duva Garlow Raleigh Hadnot Walter Long Kimberly Laferney Terri Hadnot James Thurlo Michael Gonzalez Casey Cazier Frank Pimentel Linda Simpkins Vikki Barnhill John Clouden Deborah Anderson Sean Hadnot Leon Gerhard Kathy Diaz Robert Hansen Don Schirr Bruce Wahl Lewis Fulmer Joel Holbrook Daniel Cox Tamara Smith Anthony Dorsey Lanetta Terry Robert Cole Nathan Lawson Danielle Twigg Lyle Gordon Ronald Harris Kenneth Miller Yvette Thomas Justin Cromartie Stephen Tetzlaff Cliff Tweedy Pedro Silio Minsu Kim Walter Behringer Steven Harlow Justin Ness Keith Sally Andrew Willis Joshua May Joshua Walton Tony Thacker Roman Campbell Germard Codio Jeremy Prater Dennis Vanmeter Alan Roach Chick Beesley Ronald Thomas Parke Whitney Regina Canady Earshal Wildman Sabrina Levert Joseph Davis Otis Davis Matthew Frank Eric Brown Christopher Tucker Michael Ball Charles Gordon Wendell Dickey Phillip Vargo Kevin Rogers Antwon Smith
DRIVER ANNIVERSARIES 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
Shane Tidwell, 4/5 Trenna Justice, 4/6 Joyce Norris, 4/9 Ronald Norris, 4/9 Jerry Williams, 4/11 Jacob Waltman, 4/16 Raymond Miller, 4/18 Phillip Barthel, 4/23 Christopher Pernell, 4/23 Richard Taber, 4/23 John Vanaken, 4/23 Phillip Gulett, 4/27 John Heflin, 4/27
2 YEAR ANNIVERSARIES Randy Maring, 4/3 Ron Joch, 4/17 Ricardo Vier, 4/19 Brandon Padilla, 4/25
3 YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
Rose Rojo, 4/4 Jemal Turner, 4/7 Fred Cline, 4/11 Dennis Didget, 4/11 Kenneth Carmichael, 4/25 Shrandell Curry, 4/25 James Samolis, 4/25
4 YEAR ANNIVERSARIES Lenard Dockter, 4/7 William Fontes, 4/16 Frank Pimentel, 4/17 Jennifer L Jellins, 4/21
5 YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
Christopher Schwaderer, 4/3 Vernon Walters, 4/25
6 YEAR ANNIVERSARIES Anthony Farina, 4/10 Lyle Finney, 4/17
7 YEARS ANNIVERSARY Michael Suer Jr., 4/18
8 YEARS ANNIVERSARY Johnny Ford, 4/27
9 YEARS ANNIVERSARY Bill Wrenn Jr., 4/22
10 YEARS ANNIVERSARY Stephen Evans, 4/23
12 YEARS ANNIVERSARY Arturo Reyes, 4/5
16 YEARS ANNIVERSARY Charles Demasi, 4/12
17 YEARS ANNIVERSARY Terry Chaney, 4/2
33 YEARS ANNIVERSARY John Christner, 4/14
IN THE SPOTLIGHT WALMART’S CARRIER OF THE YEAR Our founder and CEO, John Christn then moved into er, star ted his truc disp king career as a truck in 1986. His atch before star ting John Chr driver istn you had to be safe commitment to serv ice was foun er Trucking with one ded on the prem and on-time to get your current pick the nex t one ise load delivered, to that up on time. be able to 33 years later our enti pick it up and deli re orga nization revolves arou nd that simple prin ver it on time, then ciple, do it again, and And as of today again. we’ve done that on lifetime revenue and maintained over 2 million loads, $6.5 Billion an OTD % of over in We’re recognizing 97%. better part of thei a few of our most valued team mem r working careers bers who have insure our bran d remains strong, to JCT and some of the leaders given the that will relevant and succ come. essf ul for many years to We’d also like to acknowledge and associate that give thank ever y JCT is to provide exce s their all ever y day to make our driver and non-driving ptio mission possible dependability and nal transpor tation solution s utilizing integrit , which stewardship. y,
the faces of service RetiRees
Danny Christner VP/COO John Chr istn
er Trucking
Realignments, new additions & PRomotions Blake Thomas- VP of Logistics Blake learned transportation with a publicly traded 3PL, then had a stint in the software industry. He joined JCT in 2018 and immediately made key contributions to improving execution and results in logistics. He’s also taken on sales and account development responsibilities for JCTL.
Jim Gomez Sr- Jim started his career in trucking over (50) years ago and retired in March as VP of Operations after (28) years at JCT. Jim was fiercely loyal to his employer’s brand and was an integral part of our success. His leadership and presence set a tone of integrity and commitment that will live on for years to come at JCT.
Lynn Lemon- Lynn worked in the transportation industry for over (50) years and spent (23) years at JCT. Starting in sales, Lynn is credited with introducing JCT to one of its largest and best customers, Tyson Foods. Lynn then moved into the billing department in 2009. He is retiring in the Spring.
Jim Redwine - Jim learned about transportation in the US Army and after (20) years with numerous companies he came home to JCT in 2001. Jim lived in DFW and sold Texas for (18) years before retiring March 12th. No one loved their customers more, or was more loved by their customers than Jimmy Redwine. We appreciate his years of service, and his contributions help insure our ongoing success.
Realignments, new additions & PRomotions
Cory Manzi- VP of Brokerage Operations Cory spent 18 years with a large 3PL and gladly moved back to his home town of Ft. Worth TX to join JCTL in May 2018. His industry knowledge and team building skills are essential to leading a team of over (20) associates in our rapidly expanding logistics division. Cory is also involved in key account management and bid processes for JCTL. Brian Ford- VP of Driver Management Brian had over (8) years trucking experience when he was recruited to JCT by Marty Means in 2005. Brian load planned multiple areas before taking on the Driver Manager department in 2014, which now includes over (15) associates managing close to (800) drivers 24/7/365.
Connie Sperry – VP of Business Development Connie worked at JCT as a load planner (12) years ago before relocating to the DFW area and pursuing a sales position with a large LTL carrier. She returned to JCT in 2018. Her cross-trained background and familiarity with the JCT model and personnel has already produced results and made Jim Redwine’s retirement a seamless transition with several large incumbent accounts.
Greg Gorman- EVP of Sales & Marketing Greg gained exposure to the 3PL and trucking world through his father Dennis, who was Warehouse Manager at a large glass plant. After working for two other trucking companies Greg joined JCT (15) years ago, and currently manages sales, relationships and service with many of JCT’s most important accounts, including Wal-Mart, and helped develop our logistics division as well. He recently relocated back to New England area to be closer to family & friends.
Scott Bryan – Corporate Trainer Scott had several years of prior trucking experience, worked in real estate and most recently in the ministry with a local church. His unique skill set has made an immediate impact at JCTU where he developed and implemented driver personality assessment and engagement training programs for all employees. Q1 retention results are trending 50% above 2018 results and Scott’s training has had a direct impact on that positive trend.
Marty Means- EVP of Customer Service Marty had (13) years experience in the trucking industry when he joined JCT in 2000. Marty has successfully developed accounts, talent, service and culture at JCT and is one of the most respected and trusted executives at JCT. His sister-in-law’s not a bad singer either.
Virgil McPherson- VP of Loss Prevention Virgil started in the trucking business in 1975 and joined JCT as a dispatcher (30) years ago. He’s been a key contact with Tyson for over (15) years and now takes on oversight of OS&D, claims mitigation and incident resolution for the company. Quiet and steady, Virgil’s years of experience are an asset to JCT and it’s customers.
Trish Boone- VP of Compliance Trish joined JCT in 2010 after a (16) year stint at a large flatbed carrier. Swearing off family-owned trucking companies she took a chance on JCT and are we ever thankful she did. No one is better at maintaining compliance with our customers and training our associates at JCTU.
Dustin Byrd- VP of Account Management Dustin spent several years in the large 3PL space before joining JCT in 2011. He helped found the Ft Worth location and his presence and leadership have been key to the stability of that office. He also oversees daily customer-facing responsibilities with several large JCTL accounts.
Jim Gomez Jr- VP of Planning Following in his father’s footsteps Jim Jr. started at JCT in 1996. Working as a load planner, then a production and velocity specialist he is now leading our entire Load Planning department. He also has a steady demeanor and rock solid integrity like his Dad.
Jacob Lliteras- Account Manager Jake joined JCT at the ripe old age of 23 as Marketing Manager in the Driver Recruiting Department. After two successful years here, he left JCT to pursue a family business opportunity outside of trucking. Jake rejoined JCT in Jan 2019 (in the Ops Department this time), and is being trained as an Account Manager. Welcome back to the JCT family Jake!
Jeremy Fields- VP of Operations The newbie in the field, Jeremy joined JCT only (8) years ago with no trucking specific experience, but has risen quickly to a key position. His knack for analysis and approachable demeanor combined with his (6) years as a load planner qualify him to help lead our Operations Department for years to come.
John Wayne Christner - Driver Liaison John spent the last 4 years in the Denver area working in sales for a company that supplied single serving health & beauty items to convenience channels, as well as optical wear to discount retailers. Having grown up around JCT and worked a summer in the shop years ago, he had some preexisting exposure to the brand. His energy and enthusiastic approach to help solve driver related issues is already producing positive outcomes in one of the most challenging areas facing OTR trucking today- driver retention.
19,744 loads 97.22% OTD Honors of the Year ation Carrier mart s Transport gnized six Wal lmart Award in has reco
Wa Cha mart Supply 2019 -- Wal March 15, Arkansas, on while Bentonville, communicati the Year. n Carriers of r service and n to custome Transportatio clubs and d a dedicatio e its stores, rate serv to onst t led Walmar e carriers dem ls that enab Each of thes leve ice oved serv providing impr 2018 are: ided during customers. services prov , Ariz. the Year for tation, Phoenix t Carriers of Swift Transpor ti, Ohio The Walmar , Inc., Cincinna king r Yea Truc Trio , Pa. Carrier of the Services, Lima . ght r • Ambient Frei Yea Pilot Lincoln, Neb Carrier of the Corporation, • Diversity of the Year Crete Carrier , Kan. erce Carrier r Overland Park . • E-Comm ier of the Yea YRC Freight, Sapulpa, Okla Dedicated Carr r Trucking, stne • Grocery Chri r John ier of the Yea ity as the Year • LTL Carr ice and qual d Carrier of ents in serv ture Controlle have provided ng improvem • Tempera that drivi es on is focused g with compani n goals. sportation team chain. Partnerin g our transportatio evin Walmart’s Trant’s end-to-end supply n ntial to achi mar supply chai part of Wal in 2018 is esse stry. As our ier excellence sportation indu so have many of carr operational ing, ge in the tran ented chan ways of work e and improved eced new vativ unpr and year of t with inno stock efficiency 2018 was a ided Walmar and stay in with greater rs prov ved ome have evol cust network has companies recognized lower our cost to our us partners. The that ultimately help ings online. service offer our stores or the shelf in whether on Sincerely,
ach Ken Braunb tation Transpor VP, Inbound
Jeff Fleming ce and Adm. er Complian Director of Carri
industry partners
FOR THE THIRD TIME IN THE LAST FOUR YEARS, John Christner Trucking has been recognized by Walmart with their Temperature Controlled Carrier of the Year Award! Walmart told Mr. Christner that we stood out by, “executing on-time delivery, collaborating on new best practices and providing solutions to an everchanging supply chain.” In a press statement they said that JCT has, “provided Walmart with innovative and improved service offerings that ultimately help us lower our cost to our customers and stay in stock.” For 30 years, JCT’s ability to provide excellent transportation service has meshed well with Walmart’s goal to provide American communities with fresh produce. In a Tulsa World article concerning the same topic, Danny Christner explained, “Being on time and providing good service never goes out of style. It’s a tool and a strategic advantage, especially with temperature-controlled freight.” Let’s make 2019 another great year marked by hard work, thoughtful problem solving, and commitment to excellence! Stay sharp and keep up the good work everyone!
FOOD FOR THOUGHT JCT WELLNESS
LIVING IN 2019, WE ARE BOMBARDED WITH
PILSBURY CRESCENT ROLL TACO PIE
TOXINS EVERY CORNER WE TURN, AND THIS
Ingredients:
MOLECULE FOUND INSIDE OUR CELLS COULD BE THE MOST IMPORTANT MOLECULE OF ALL! Glutathione, the body’s master detoxifier and main antioxidant, protects our cells and optimizes our energy metabolism. Here are 5 foods rich with Glutathione: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Broccoli -- why does this one seem to always make our lists?? Asparagus -- grilled this summer is scrumptious Avocado -- super food Walnuts -- ALA source for brain health as well Watermelon -- super powerful antioxidant fruit *Coach Jeff is not a physician and does not give medical advice only information not to be taken as medical advice. See Dr. Mark Hyman for medical advice.
Contact coach Jeff for questions: JEFF@JEFFRAVENSCROFT.COM
1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury™ refrigerated crescent rolls 1lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef SAVE $ 3/4 cup Old El Paso™ Thick ‘n Chunky salsa 2 tablespoons Old El Paso™ taco seasoning mix (from 1-oz package) 1cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz) Instructions (Stove-top):
1.Heat oven to 375° F. Unroll dough; separate into 8 triangles. Place in ungreased 9-inch square pan or 10-inch pie plate; press over bottom and up sides to form crust. 2. In 10-inch skillet, cook beef over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in salsa and taco seasoning mix; simmer 5 minutes. Spoon meat mixture in crust-lined pan; sprinkle with cheese. 3. Bake 14 to 17 minutes or until crust is deep golden brown and cheese is melted. Served topped with lettuce and tomato, if desired.
For full article, click here.
MAKING MEMORIES
S HOWI NG TANK
Amy Cason’s son, JC, showing at Creek County on March 2nd. He placed 3rd with his pig, Tank.
WO LF C RE E K
Candace Sisk with her husband, Matthew, and sons, Seth and Corbyn Sisk. Spring break 2019, her first time seeing real snow in Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
WI NGED CART RACER
Kami Green’s son, Blake, went to Checotah to a big money race on March 2nd in his winged kart and won. His winnings are going toward the mini stock he is building to race at Creek County Speedway this summer (Mom’s a little nervous about this).
TU R KE Y MO U N TAI N
Kristy Reece’s girls, niece, and nephew (Molly, Gabby, Audrey, and Rylan) enjoying a hike at Turkey Mountain over spring break.
MAKING MEMORIES
MARCH MADNE SS
Danny Christner and Kregg Wood of Bar-S Foods watching the Texas Tech Red Raiders move on. They’re in the Final Four for first time ever!
OZZY PUP
Janet McCoy’s dog, Ozzy.
M U LTI US E
Lucy Hobb’s cat, Dash, lounging in the sink.
SPRING FIS HIN G
Tiffany Todd’s kids, Tj and Tayla, doing some spring break fishing.
C H ILLIN O UT
Diane Scott’s dogs, Gibson and Bubba, relaxing.
PI CTUR E DAY
Brooke Johnson’s daughter, Karleigh, warming up for her spring pictures.
D R ES S I NG UP
Leon loves playing dress up at lunch.
FI R S T NIECE
Shaila Montgomery’s brother, Cody, and first niece, Lorelai.
GR A N DDA U GH TE R S
On the left is Amy Cason’s granddaughter, Tinlee. On the right is her other granddaughter, Teagan, going to her first daddy-daughter dance.
T-BA LL BO Y S
Turner Rosson (Tara’s son), and JD Smoot (Betty Smoot’s Grandson) First T-Ball Practice!
IT’ S A BO Y
Shaila Montgomery found out that her sister is having a boy!
C O NTACT I N FORMAT I ON Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1900 Sapulpa, OK 74067 19007 W. Hwy. 33 Sapulpa, OK 74066 BCBSOK BCBSOK 800-672-2567 TrueNorth Driver Insurance 800-877-9637 ATBS/American Truck Business Services 888-640-4829 or www.atbs.com Driver Legal Driver’s Legal Plan 800-417-3552 JCT Wellness Jeff Ravenscroft 918-857-8600 Zurich OCC/ACC 866-280-4390 Reach out to JCT employees on Facebook, Twitter, phone, mail, or fax. Any correction or input for next month’s newsletter is welcomed and appreciated. Please send to strk@johnchristner.com by Wednesday, April 24th.
STAY S OCI AL