March/April
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2 Professionalism is how we take care of each other
3 In memory: Ralph Davis
4 Hitting the road with pride Spring is in the air — and so is everything else
5 A new Great Dane delivery trailer for our fleet
6 Got safe miles? Spring Cleaning
7 McKee Foods Transportation Team spends the day at Volvo’s manufacturing facilities
8 Happy retirement: Bruce LaFoe, Ken Neier and Larrie Andersen
9 One million safe miles: Chad Buckner Pay raise announced
10 The McKeeFIT approach: Mastering your work day: The power of awareness
11 A little history — 1970s
12 In the Community: Safe Driving Summit; Skills USA Competition
13 Employee profile: Nathan Butler
14 People here and there April is Physical Wellness Month
PROFESSIONALISM IS
HOW WE TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER
by Chris Reeves, Stuarts Draft Transportation Field superintendent
Most of what makes transportation run smoothly happens quietly, often when no one is watching. A clean handoff, a properly stacked warehouse, a completed post-trip inspection, these things rarely get noticed when they’re done right, but they are felt immediately when they’re missed. At McKee Foods, professionalism isn’t about checking boxes or avoiding trouble. It’s about respecting the next person in the system.
That respect shows up in small, practical ways. Respecting your co-driver’s time and effort. Marking
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On the cover — Collegedale vehicle utility service hard at work — making sure our fleet sparkles!
Back page — Collegedale long-haul drivers, Wayne Smith and Danny Satterfield, capture the contrail from the Orion spacecraft that launched from Kennedy Space Center, April 1, 2026.
Loads&Roads is published bi-monthly by the Transportation Communications Team for McKee Foods Transportation to help employees stay informed about issues affecting them on the job. Content suggestions and submissions should be sent to your local Communications Team member.
Managing editor and layout/design: Mista Gallmon
Co-editor: James Hickey
Editorial Board: Donél Cochran, Scott Dempsey, Ron Eddleman, James Frost, William Hostetter, Jason Smith, Renee’ Tracy, John Williams and Ryan Womack.
Communications Team: Emily Amos, Lorrie Bowles, Cindy Gibson, James Hickey, Melissa Holloway, Chuck Johnson, Kaitlen Kirkpatrick, Cathy McCamey, Roxy Najar, Kim Polster and Dennise Robison.
shortages and damages accurately so a distributor isn’t left guessing. Leaving constructive feedback when rating a load poorly. Stacking loads well so the distributor can get their product safely and efficiently. Ensuring your paperwork is accurate including doing your start a trip, recording your tractor, trailer, starting and ending mileage. Taking a few extra minutes after a trip to make sure the equipment is functioning for the next driver. These small, seemingly unimportant actions keep the whole operation stable.
This is where the Customers Feel Valued and People Feel Valued principles of the McKee Operating System come to life. External customers depend on us to deliver safely and accurately, but internal customers depend on us just as much. Every handoff is a moment where professionalism can either remove frustration or pass it along. When drivers take the extra step to
do the right thing, they’re not just helping one person, they’re protecting the system.
Professionalism also shows up in how we respond to problems. Asking clarifying questions instead of assuming intent. Pausing before reacting when something doesn’t look right. Seeking first to understand instead of reacting from frustration. These habits reduce tension, strengthen relationships and help maintain psychological safety.
When professionalism includes speaking up, it becomes even more powerful. Using The LOOP survey to share your experiences or ideas is not complaining, it’s stewardship. Many improvements drivers see today, from delay pay adjustments to fewer SKU changes, exist because someone took the time to share their experience and frustration. Professionalism isn’t loud, but it lasts. It’s how we take care of each other, even when no one is watching.
In memory ...
Ralph Davis
Ralph Davis, retired Transportation scheduler, passed away Saturday, March 21. Originally hired in 1985, Ralph worked as a driver and in leadership roles before leaving the company. He returned in December 1999, and he retired in October 2011. Funeral services were held Thursday, March 26 at Cowboy Church of Lafayette, Ga.
HITTING THE ROAD WITH PRIDE
by Kaitlen Kirkpatrick, Collegedale Fleet Maintenance office support
This season, dedicated behind-the-scenes work ensures our vehicles hit the road looking their best. These beautiful trucks and trailers are a symbol of the quality and care we deliver every day. A clean fleet isn't just about aesthetics; it’s a matter of pride for our drivers and a testament of our commitment to excellence.
Capturing this spirit of renewal, we shine a spotlight on team members like Michael Jackson, first shift vehicle utility service, Collegedale, who was
recently photographed giving a truck and trailer a thorough wash. His efforts, and those of the entire maintenance team, ensure that every shipment rolls out spotless, ready to represent McKee Foods across the country.
Keep an eye out on the highways for our sparkling fleet — it’s a clear sign that spring is here, and we're driving into the new season with renewed energy and a professional gleam.
Who can use these services?
Health Center and Mental Wellness: Must be on a McKee Foods medical plan. Services are available to McKee Foods employees and their dependents on the benefits plan ages 6 and up.
Pharmacy: Available to all employees, regardless if they are covered by a McKee Foods medical plan or not.
A NEW GREAT DANE DELIVERY TRAILER FOR OUR FLEET
Last June we began to build a forty-eight foot trailer specification with Great Dane. The primary reason for this test related to our current supplier being reluctant to continue to build our current trailer that includes three side doors. As it turns out, Great Dane’s model was very close to our standard in terms of weight, cube and pricing and proved to be a good fit for a test. We moved forward with a single pilot trailer, which was manufactured in Brazil, Indiana last December. We accepted delivery here in Collegedale in mid-January and began the process of getting the unit ready for active service. Here are a few differences you will notice with the Great Dane pilot unit:
• The ice cream doors are slightly wider by two inches when compared to the Utility trailer
• There are steps built into the rear bumper in the center and on the right side sections
• Our standard removable step mounts to the trailer’s bumper as seen in the picture below
• There are rigid grab handles on the rear doorframe on the right-hand side — pictured below
• The interior lighting should come on as needed by section while work is performed
• *Important note: There is a switch box/timer on the nose of the trailer that must be activated for the interior lights to function. Any future orders will not include this switch.
As trailer 2471 makes the rounds to all locations, we hope you will share any feedback you have with the Fleet Maintenance team. Your feedback helps us to make improvements on future equipment purchases.
— John Williams and the Fleet Maintenance Management Team
GOT SAFE MILES?
Congratulations to these long-haul drivers for reaching the following safe mileage accomplishments.
100,000
Sergio Galindo (Ark.)
Danny Escalera (Ariz.)
Elijah Bonner (Tenn.)
200,000
Jacob Carlin (Ariz.)
Luke Haak (Ark.)
Ben Hebert (Ark.)
Neal Creason (Ark.)
Carlos Negrete (Ark.)
David Robeson (Ark.)
Brandon Missildine (Tenn.)
300,000
Stephen Poe (Ark.)
Jon Quinn (Ark.)
Charles Alderman (Mebane)
Levi Hobbs (Valdosta)
400,000
Levi Beierle (Ark.)
Rick Hook (Ark.)
David Delgado (Ariz.)
Charles Nichols (Tenn.)
Greg Mueller (Tenn.)
Thomas Crosswhite (Tenn.)
Jerimy Ford (Tenn.)
Jeremy Cagle (Tenn.)
Darrel McCauley (Tenn.)
500,000
Gene Gardner (Ark.)
Nate Dykes (Ark.)
Sean Tillery (Ark.)
600,000
Vince Thompson (Mebane)
Todd Smith (Tenn.)
George Houck (Valdosta)
700,000
Don Switzer (Ark.)
Gary Fuston (Tenn.)
800,000
Randy Jordon (Ark.)
Roger Peterson (Ariz.)
Troy Green Jr. (Tenn.)
900,000
Rommel Torres (Ark.)
Darel Bellomy (Tenn.)
1,000,000
Shon Leonard (Tenn.)
Dennis Whidden (Tenn.)
1,100,000
Derek Mews (Ark.)
Tim Farley (Ark.)
Gary Redfern (Portland)
1,200,000
Kenny Robison (Ark.)
Andy Marshall (Ariz.)
Jerry Lewis (Tenn.)
1,300,000
Tommy Beck (Ark.)
Bryan Carroll (Tenn.)
Chuck Hartline Jr (Tenn.)
1,400,000
Michael Moore (Tenn.)
1,600,000
David Richardson (Tenn.)
1,700,000
Rudy Falcone Jr. (Tenn.)
2,200,000
Don Beyer (Ark.)
MCKEE FOODS TRANSPORTATION TEAM SPENDS THE DAY AT VOLVO’S
MANUFACTURING
FACILITIES
On Thursday, Feb. 26, a group of our Transportation team members visited the Volvo Commercial Truck plant in Dublin, Va. It was a productive day spent reviewing our equipment specifications and touring the manufacturing facility. A highlight for many was the opportunity to experience the latest trucking technologies firsthand on the test track.
This was a fantastic, informative session for the team, and I want to thank everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to attend.
— John C. Williams, Corporate Fleet Maintenance manager
The truck pictured below is a new 2027 Volvo 860 — scheduled for delivery to our fleet in the coming weeks.
Attendees (from left to right): Darrell Wright, Tenn.; John Williams, Tenn.; William Hostetter, Va.; Chris Reeves, Va.; Eric Rusk, Ark.; Sean Carson, Ark.; Nick Hockenberry, Ark.; Trivontae Stewart, Tenn.; Michael Munson, Ark.; Keith Blackwell, Tenn.; Josh Wyatt, Ariz.; Lucas Dooms, Va.; Nathan Butler, Va.; Tracy Glass, Va. and Greg Eady, Tenn.
HAPPY RETIREMENT
BRUCE LAFOE RETIRES
Bruce LaFoe, Collegedale long-haul driver, retired Friday, March 6, after 17 years of service. Bruce is presented with his retirement certificate from (l to r) James Frost, Debbie McKee-Fowler, Bruce's wife, Faye, Melissa Koettig and Chris Fugatt. Thank you for your service, Bruce. Enjoy your retirement!
Ken Neier, Collegedale long-haul driver, retired Thurdsay, Feb. 26, after 36 years of service. Ken was presented with his retirement certificate from (l to r) Randy Fowler, Debbie McKee-Fowler, Mike McKee, Ken's wife, Carol, Chris McKee, Betty McKee and Jack McKee. Thank you for your service, Ken. Enjoy your retirement!
KEN NEIER RETIRES
LARRIE ANDERSEN RETIRES
Larrie Andersen, Gentry long-haul driver, retired Tuesday, Feb. 17 after 44 years of service. Larrie is presented with his retirement certificate from (l to r), Renee’ Tracy, Eric Andersen, Mary Andersen, Vickie Andersen and Ryan Womack. Thank you for your service, Larrie. Enjoy your retirement!
CONGRATULATIONS ON ONE MILLION SAFE MILES
from the Transportation Natural Management Team
Congratulations to Chad Buckner for safely traveling more than one million miles. McKee Foods Transportation extends its deepest appreciation for your dedication to safe driving.
PAY RAISE ANNOUNCED
The Board of Directors has approved a pay raise for employees that went into effect Saturday, April 4, and will show up on the payslips distributed Thursday, April 16, for hourly employees and long-haul drivers. Actual pay rates will be posted on the bulletin boards close to the effective date. As a reminder, salaried employee pay increases are scheduled to occur in October.
Several factors are considered to help prepare information for the Board of Directors to make its pay raise decision.
Collegedale long-haul driver,
his one million safe-miles
and certificate from
The committee reviews external economic conditions like inflation and unemployment trends over the past 12 months.
The Compensation Committee starts the process with a review of wage surveys to see how our compensation compares with the labor market.
The committee performs a high-level review of the company’s financial performance to determine if we can afford to give an increase similar to the competitive market trends.
All of these factors are used by the Compensation Committee to generate a pay raise recommendation to the Board of Directors. It is ultimately the Board of Directors’ sole discretion to approve a pay raise and its relative percentage. We’ve been fortunate to be able to give pay raises as well as profit-sharing bonuses and a 401(k) match for many years, but it’s important to remember that none of these increases are guaranteed.
Thanks for your help in keeping McKee Foods a great place to work.
— Compensation & Benefits Department
Chad Buckner,
receives
jacket, plaque
(l to r) James Frost, Perry Wilson, Renee Tracy and Tim Brogden.
THE MCKEEFIT APPROACH
Mastering your Work Day: The Power of Awareness
by Stephanie Kennedy, Wellness supervisor
In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to move through your shift on autopilot. Whether you’re mixing dough or moving boxes, your brain eventually stops thinking about the “how” and just does it. While this efficiency helps with production, it can be a trap for your personal health. Most of our daily choices — like grabbing a sugary snack during a break or slumped posture while packing boxes — happen without us even noticing. To build a healthier lifestyle, the first and most important step isn’t willpower; it’s awareness. You cannot change a habit that you don’t realize you have.
To wake up your brain, try a technique used by high-safety industries called “Pointing-and-Calling.” It sounds simple because it is: physically point at an action and say it out loud. For example, as you’re rushing to get out the door, you might find yourself reaching for a second sugary energy drink or scrolling through your phone for an extra ten minutes. Point at the object and say, “I am choosing to spend ten more
minutes on my phone even though it will make me late and stressed.” Verbalizing the action moves it from a “non-conscious” impulse to a conscious decision. This tiny moment of friction gives your brain the split second it needs to decide if that action actually benefits your goals or if it’s just something you’re doing out of repetition.
Another powerful tool for your health is the Habits Scorecard. To start, simply list your daily routines — from the moment you wake up to when you clock out — and mark them as positive (+), negative (-), or neutral (=) based on your long-term health goals. There is no need to judge yourself or try to change everything at once. The goal is simply to see your behavior clearly. Once you see the patterns on paper, you’ll find that your brain naturally begins to pick up on cues and predict outcomes. By turning the “lights on” through awareness, you make healthy choices feel less like a chore and more like a natural part of your day.
Ready to take control of your routine? These insights were inspired by “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. It’s a fantastic read if you’re looking for simple, proven ways to build good habits and break bad ones. For additional questions or assistance, please email us at TN.Kingman.FSO.Wellness@mckee.com, AR.Wellness@mckee.com or VA.Wellness@mckee.com.
A LITTLE HISTORY — 1970S
Did the company ever use refrigerated trailers?
By the late 1960s, McKee Baking Company had grown significantly and was shipping to distributors and bakeries in 41 states. In a Bakery Production and Marketing article published in June 1970, there was a quote that stated, “All trailers are refrigerated to keep icings and cremes stable in hot weather.”
What do you think about that? See the full post on the ReMIX channel and leave your thoughts/comments.
— Kevin Spicer, Corporate Communications
SAFE DRIVING SUMMIT
by Corporate Communications
McKee Foods Transportation representatives Matt Silvers, Collegedale field supervisor, and Karen Partin, Collegedale long-haul driver, attended the Safe Driving Summit at Dade County High School, in Dade County, Ga., to serve as essential voices for roadway safety, bridging the gap between cold statistics and real-world experience.
By partnering with the Lutzie 43 Foundation, McKee Foods’ professional drivers provided students with an undeniable “front-row” perspective on the dangers of distracted and impaired driving. Their presence was vital to the mission of educating the next generation of drivers, transforming a standard safety presentation into a powerful, human-centered lesson on the stakes of the road.
SKILLS USA COMPETITION
by Lorrie Bowles, Fleet Maintenance office support
Travis Ferguson, first shift Fleet Maintenance supervisor, and Dylan Campbell, first shift Fleet Maintenance truck technician, recently sat on a panel of judges for the annual Skills USA District VI Competition held at Massanutten Technical Center. These competitions provide valuable feedback for
the students in their desire to learn and grow in the diesel technology field. Showcasing their skills and knowledge with the opportunity to advance to the state or national level in competition is growth at its best. Thank you, Travis and Dylan, for your support of the diesel fuel technology field.
EMPLOYEE PROFILE: NATHAN BUTLER
by Lorrie Bowles, Fleet Maintenance office support
Nathan came to work for McKee Foods in November 2025. He heard about this position through his dad, Kenneth Butler, Stuarts Draft Transportation field supervisor. Working as a vehicle utility service worker in Fleet Maintenance, Nathan is a hands-on mechanic who truly enjoys the "nuts and bolts" of the trade. Before coming to work here, he was a lead over the diesel technicians at Loves Travel Plaza in Greenville, Va. An average work day for Nathan is
washing trucks and trailers, and sometimes helping the mechanics. Nathan said the thing that he likes most about his job is the people he works with.
Nathan still has ties to Riverheads, the high school he graduated from. He said he has fun helping coach soccer and wrestling at the school. While he has fun coaching, other hobbies he enjoys are fishing, playing cornhole and golfing.
Nathan, left, fishing with a friend.
Nathan, assisting with coaching wrestling.
PEOPLE HERE AND THERE
Accurate case counts
Congratulations to these loading checkers in Kingman for loading five or more perfectly-counted trucks during the following periods.
Period 7
Brandon VanRees – 7
Braeden Jordan – 7
Dereck Malecki – 7
Zack Solbes – 7
Mike Adams – 5
Scott Morrison – 5
Period 8
Matt Martinez - 8
Braeden Jordan – 7
Mike Adams – 6
Troy Deakin – 6
Scott Morrison – 5
Neil McLeish – 5
Troy Deakin – 5
CONGRATULATE
Tim Standifer (Ark.) — on the birth of his daughter, Blair Kelly Standifer, born Friday, Jan. 30.
OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO ...
Jeff Nestell (Tenn.) on the death of his stepfather, William Moore. Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 7, in Belmont, Mich.
Jeremy Patten (Tenn.) on the death of his father, Steve Patten. Arrangements are by Wallace Wilbanks Funeral Home in LaFayette, Ga.
Emily Amos (Tenn.) and Joshua Francis (Tenn.) on the death of their grandmother, Cynthia Howington, retiree. Funeral services were held Wednesday, March 4, in Henagar, Ala.
Rodney Dove (Va.) on the death of his father, Lako Dove. Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 28, in Baker, W. Va.
Andrew Swortzel (Va.) on the death of his grandmother, Judith Ann Powell Robertson. Funeral services were held Jan. 29, in Staunton, Va.
Austin Wolfe (Va.) on the death of his grandfather, Arlie Lee Wolfe on March 1. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Kenny Davis (Tenn.) on the death of his father, Ralph Davis, retiree. Funeral services were held Thursday, March 26, in Lafayette, Ga.
WAY TO GO!
Thank you to Jerald Boyce and the Tennessee Transportation Department for going above and beyond to support our production needs at another facility, yet again. Your willingness to support and diligence to deliver are very much appreciated. Your support meant Honey Bun production can continue without cutting any orders due to frying oil supply until our regular vendor’s railcar can be delivered for use. You guys are awesome!!
— Bill Tracy, Purchasing agent
FAMILY FUN RUN!
Get a head start on the season! Trade the treadmill for the fresh air and join us for the Little Debbie® 7 Family Fun Run on Sunday, May 31. Late May is the perfect time to see how far your spring training has taken you. Whether you’re aiming for a 5K finish with friends or stepping up to the challenge of our signature 7-mile race, this is your chance to hit the pavement before the summer heat truly arrives. Sponsored by Little Debbie®, our event includes 7-mile and 5K runs (plus virtual options), a 5K
walk, and the fan-favorite Kids’ Dash. Don’t forget to capture the moment with a photo alongside a Little Debbie costume character!
All participants (except Kids’ Dash participants) receive a race shirt and swag bag with Little Debbie® snacks and their choice of a Little Debbie swag item. All finishers receive a finisher medal, including Kids’ Dash participants. —
Post Office Box 2299
Collegedale, TN 37315-2299
