Birds Eye Newsletter - November

BIRDS EYE NEWS SPREAD YOUR WINGS

NOVEMBER2018 CONTENTS

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Winter Safety

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Toys 4 Tots

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A Stevens Love Story

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November Anniversaries

Dates to remember 11/19 – Toys 4 Tots Collections Starts 11/22 – Thanksgiving Day 11/23 – Black Friday

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INDUSTRY NEWS

‘TIS THE SEASON

PROTECTING OUR DRIVERS AND THE MOTORING PUBLIC THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.

As we come into another winter, knowing the roads and weather conditions ahead is the most important aspect to safely navigate and avoid accidents. If adverse weather cannot be avoided, planning safe havens in advance is crucial to maintaining necessities such as fuel, food and water.

There are great resources available from any smart device with internet connection. One of the best sources for information on road conditions is safetravelusa.com. This website gives access to all D.O.T. websites for each state. Some of these sites will not only give road conditions, but have web cams and streaming video in real time as to see what’s ahead.

Another useful site is weather.gov. This will give weather advisories and alerts for the U.S. by state, narrowing the search and even pulling up the five-day forecast for each.

The Driver Weather Hot Line is also available at 1-800-527-7094.

After the call has successfully connected, press the number 6 for the East, the number 7 for Central, and the number 8 for West travel regions. This is updated twice a day and can give good information so you can refine your search.

Written by: Leslie Cook and Kip Grandy

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Sometimes weather may develop that is unforeseen and not forecasted and drivers could be caught in adverse conditions. When this happens, there are some steps to take to ensure safety: • • • • • • • • •

Reduce speed.

Increase following distance.

Know where safe havens are.

Avoid aggressive steering or breaking.

Do not park on shoulders or ramps.

Keep all lights on.

Stay alert.

Never use the engine brake.

Find nearest safe haven to stop, gather information and evaluate.

If conditions are unsafe stay parked and communicate.

By taking a few simple steps, we can ensure our drivers have a safe and successful winter.

Stevens Transport TL, Inc has had some exciting news. Recently, they unveiled a new logo and in the coming weeks, TL will also be launching a new website. The new website is not just aesthetics though. It allow carriers to get signed up to haul for Stevens TL online and will provide them with a carrier portal with some new exciting features. The portal will be a place where carriers can identify attractive freight within the TL network but it will also be a place that will allow business owners to view the financials of the loads that they have hauled previously. It’s completely customizable to the way they want to view the information and they can even control access to other employees at their company. We may be nearing the close of calendar year of 2018 but the fireworks are already started for Stevens Transport, TL. Written by: Matt Gray

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THE DRIVER WEATHER HOT LINE IS Hot ALSO AVAILABLE 1-800-527-7094.

AFTER THE CALL at HAS SUCCESSFULLY CONNECTED, The PRESS Driver Weather LineATis also available 1-800-527-7094.

THE NUMBER 6 FOR THE EAST, THE NUMBER 7 FOR CENTRAL, AND THE NUMBER 8 FOR WEST TRAVEL REGIONS. THIS IS A DAY AND CAN GIVE GOOD INFORMATION SO YOU press CAN REFINE YOUR After the callUPDATED hasTWICE successfully connected, theSEARCH. number 6 for the East, the number 7 for Central, and the number 8 for West travel regions. This is updated twice a day and can give good information so you can refine your search.

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STEVENS TRANSPORT TL

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WHAT’S HAPPENING AT STEVENS STEVENS PARTICIPATES IN HOLIDAY GIVING Today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders; civic, business and social. Alarmingly, approximately 15 million American children live in poverty. Stevens Transport is honored to be a part of the U.S. Marine Corp’s annual Toys for Tots; bringing holiday cheer and smiles to under-privileged children across the nation. This year, we are collecting new and unwrapped toys starting Monday, November 19th through Wednesday, December 12th. We will have collection boxes located throughout headquarters in Dallas. Make a child smile this Christmas… we promise you won’t regret it!

LOVE YOUR JOB?

THANK YOU LETTERS TO SOLDIERS Here at Stevens Transport, we are thankful for all of our heroes who are paying the price for our freedom. These soldiers have given up their comfort, their home, and time with their families to ensure each and every one of us is safe in our great Country. All of your letters have been mailed and will be received by our service men and women by Thanksgiving. Thank you all for taking the time to show gratitude to our heroes!

Many people look to social media sites to review feedback from others. We only hire the best and want to continue to provide employment for all of the talented and deserving individuals out there looking for a long-term career. If you are one of the many people who love working for Stevens, help us out by leaving a review! Scan this code from any smart device to leave your review on Indeed today.

[SCAN WITH SMART DEVICE]

Stevens Transport is proud to announce the recent accomplishment of winning “Hershey National Carrier of the Year” for 2018. According to The Hershey Company, Stevens Transport exceeded satisfactory expectations while providing unparalleled solutions and service. The award is a prestigious honor that is highly respected in the industry, and Stevens Transport is thrilled to be recognized for our dedication to excellence.

“Accolades are earned in this business through diligence, execution and operating safely with a sense of urgency. Therefore, by all measures, receiving the prestigious Hershey Company National Carrier of the Year Award is an honor that is considered one of the most coveted transportation awards in our space” -Todd Aaron, the Vice Chairman of Stevens Transport.

Written by: Leslie Cook

This couldn’t have been accomplished without each and every one of you. What a way to end the year; great job, everyone!

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT STEVENS?

“MY HEART BELONGS TO MY WIFE AND MY TRUCK” A STEVENS LOVE STORY AND A 30-YEAR COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE AND ADVENTURE Bobby Turner remembers when Stevens Transport opened in 1980. He had been a professional driver for nearly a decade and clearly remembers the day he saw the truck that changed his life.

Today, Bobby and Janice celebrate 18 years of happy marriage and together, their combined tenure with Stevens Transport spans over 52 years! The Turners are very passionate about their family at Stevens ​“I was already driving and Stevens was Transport and express their gratitude for new. I remember wanting the truck they the opportunity the company has provided had…it was a Kenworth T600...the Rolls- them.

Royce of trucking”, Mr. Turner recalls.

Bobby tells the story about life on the road In 1988 Bobby joined Stevens Transport and the many people he met along the to pursue his dream of driving the most way; conquering roads, loads and tough prestigious truck on the road, the Kenworth terrain. He quickly became a legend on T600. Little did he know that for the next the road, being crowned “the Mountain thirty years, Stevens Transport would King”. Bobby could conquer any mountain become his family and home as well as with impeccable skill and many drivers where he would find the love of his life, still seek his help to successfully navigate Janice. the tough inclines and declines that the mountains demand.

In 1994, Bobby met Janice working in the ​ safety department at Stevens Transport.

They became great friends and joined in “God and my faith got me through every marriage in 2000. one of those tough mountains” Bobby attests.

In 1994, Bobby won, “Driver of the Year”; a prestigious award only given to the best of the best at Stevens Transport. Life at Stevens seemed to be working out perfectly for Bobby, and it only got better from there.

Janice recalls traveling with Bobby on his truck and how different life on the road was.

“The challenges drivers face every day are tremendous; it is a very tough job”, says Janice. “I used to hang out in the truck but I could never get used to the shower schedule. I am a girly girl!”, she giggles. “You have a 24-hour showering schedule, so sometimes you have to shower at 1am.”

Bobby and Janice were inseparable; a beautiful love was born from a friendship that bloomed at Stevens Transport. The Turners say they love all of the drivers here at Stevens and give many thanks to the company, especially Angela Horowitz, the Vice President of Stevens Transport. “​No driver is too small for her [Angela]. She is like family. Stevens is a family.”, says Janice.

Mrs. Turner also goes on to explain the impeccable work ethic Bobby possesses and how dedicated he is to his career. “​ One time, we were scheduled to go to the beach for vacation.

Bobby received a pre-plan for work and that came first. His love for his job and this company is serious”, explains Janice.

When asked what his advice was to anyone thinking of becoming a driver, he had three simple tips: 1. Planning ahead is essential.

2. Get rest. If you’re tired, you can’t run.

3. Know your limits and always be yourself.

“It is not a career; it is a lifestyle.” Explains Bobby. “It takes a determined person and a passion for the job.”

Bobby went on to win, “Driver of the Year” again in 2013 as well as, “Driver of the Month” in November of 2017 and is still going strong. With close to 4 million miles under his belt, Bobby has a spotless safety record and continues to impress even the most seasoned drivers. “​ Bobby has been here since they brought the dirt in for the foundation of Stevens”, jokes Danny Doak, a long-time employee of Stevens Transport.

“We have enjoyed being a part of his success and are thrilled to celebrate 30 years with him.”

With a smile on his face, his love by his side, and his truck in his heart, Bobby Turner continues to drive for Stevens Transport after three decades of loyal excellence.

“Bobby is unique. 30 years of impeccable service and safety is beyond the best of the best. We are so thankful to have Bobby and Janice as part of the Stevens family. They are truly a part of the backbone of success that Stevens has celebrated over the past 30 plus years. Congratulations, Bobby, on this huge milestone. We love you! - The Aaron Family.”

Written by: Leslie Cook

#MEETSTEVENS Jeff Birl Service Writer Jeff joined Paragon in April of 2012. He is recognized for his dependability and building rapport with our drivers. Jeff works hard to ensure the needs of our drivers are put into perspective. He understands the value of customer service and going the extra-mile. We appreciate his efforts to reassure our drivers that we have them covered. When we asked Jeff what he enjoys most about his role, he explained: “I enjoy the interaction with the different personalities that our drivers present. I find it refreshing to be able to assist drivers in some of their most stressful times. It is a personal mission for all of us here to be able to set the driver’s minds at ease when it comes to repairing their means of making a living.

There is nothing better than getting these drivers back on the road and their units back to showroom standards. The care and respect that Stevens extends to their drivers are what makes this company special.” Jeff also shared some helpful advice for our new employees “Don’t be afraid to step in and embrace the culture and thrive in the Stevens atmosphere. Stevens is a company you can build a career with.” Jeff is married and has 3 wonderful children. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching pee-wee football and basketball, playing golf, fishing, and sightseeing with family.

Perry Lewis AS400 Programmer/Analyst Perry joined Stevens Transport in July of 2013. He is recognized for his knowledge and punctuality. Perry is sharp and timely in supporting many others within the workplace. We appreciate his effectiveness and ability to create, design, and develop applications that help us work more efficiently. When we asked Perry what he enjoys most about his role, he explained: “I enjoy helping people, and I like the fact that each day presents a new challenge that comes with an opportunity for me to use what I’ve learned to make a positive impact.”

Perry also shared some helpful advice for our new employees, “Treat every opportunity as an audition because you never know who’s watching or listening to something you might say or do that could lead to great things.” Perry is married and has 3 sons and 1 grandson.

Outside of work, he enjoys creating music digitally, woodworking, cooking, and baseball.

Jordan Cook Corporate Recruiter Jordan joined Stevens Transport in November of 2016. She is recognized for her hard work and problem-solving capabilities. Jordan plays a vital role in ensuring that many departments have the talent needed to perform at the highest standard. We appreciate her many efforts to take on the toughest challenges to ensure the company runs more efficiently as a whole.

When we asked Jordan what she enjoys most about role and what keeps her motivated, she explained “I enjoy being challenged and pushed to do my best. The pace is perfect for my personality, and I love the people I work with. What keeps me motivated is knowing what I am doing is worthwhile, and it plays into the success of the company. Every person and position plays a part!” Jordan also shared some helpful advice for our new employees, “Instead of saying you do not know respond by saying I will find out! You will learn more about the way the company works at a much faster pace, and improve the overall driver and customer experience all at the same time!” Outside of work, Jordan enjoys reading, hunting, fishing, and crafts. #MEETSTEVENS articles written by: Cher Torres

#MEETSTEVENS Tony Thigpen Dallas Office Manager-Stevens TL Tony joined Stevens in December of 2013. He is recognized for his leadership skills and positive attitude within the workplace. Tony is a notable leader and keeps the success of the company at his forefront. His positive attitude not only increases his team’s morale but many other departments as well. We appreciate Tony’s many efforts to lead by example and remain a positive influence for us all. When we asked Tony what he enjoys most in his role and what keeps him motivated, he explained: “ I enjoy building and establishing relationships with carriers throughout our network. My motivation comes from the camaraderie and the teamwork that we have at Dallas office.” Tony also shared some helpful advice for our new employees, “As a new employee, learn to understand the “Stevens Way.” Put forth your best effort every day, be willing to step up when an opportunity presents itself, and always stay positive! “Outside of work, Tony enjoys grilling and being a creative cook.

Samantha Newman Customer Service Representative Samantha joined Stevens Transport in November of 2017. She is recognized for her determination and commitment within the organization. Samantha is a great team player and always goes the extra mile to ensure that our customers receive the highest level of service. We appreciate her many efforts to juggle the needs of her role, and we are proud of the challenges she has overcome thus far. When we asked Samantha what motivates her to push for success, she explained: “My motivation is striving to keep a balance between servicing the customer for on-time delivery and servicing the drivers to keep them rolling as much as possible. It can be challenging at times but finding that balance between the two is gold.” Samantha also shared some helpful advice for our new employees, “Learn as much as you can about other roles and different departments. Diversify yourself and gain as much knowledge as possible to open more doors.” Outside of work, she enjoys sightseeing, playing with her dog, and spending time with family and friends.

Brandon Woods Night Shift Shop Supervisor Brandon joined Paragon in October of 2008. He is recognized for attention to detail and dedication. Brandon is skilled at ensuring that his team works efficiently to service our equipment up to company standards. We appreciate his level of attentiveness and commitment to get our drivers back rolling.

When we asked Brandon what motivates him to push for success, he explained: “My motivation is knowing that growth has no cap in this industry.

I can continue to grow in my role and get better at the tasks that are given to me.” Brandon also shared some advice for our new employees, “Put in the work and take advantage of the advancement opportunities this company has to offer.” Brandon is married and has 3 beautiful children. Outside of work, he enjoys home improvements and spending time with family.

#MEETSTEVENS articles written by: Cher Torres

NOVEMBER ANNIVERSARIES THANK YOU FOR YOUR DEDICATION

Paragon

Transport Laura Lukawecki - BROKERAGE (SC) - 20 Years

Gary Kral - ACCOUNTING - 11 Years

Albert Voorhees - ADMIN (LEAD) - 26 Years

Robert Miller - NIGHT DISPATCH - 19 Years

Gloria Vladi - SAFETY - 10 Years

Julian Delgado - ADMIN (LEAD) - 24 Years

Mia Milk - DRIVER QUALIFICATIONS - 18 Years

Candace Collins - ACCOUNTING - 10 Years

Randolph Mitchell - TRUCK - 20 Years

Holly Daniel - ACCOUNTING - 15 Years

Charles Lee - DRIVER TRAINING - 8 Years

Louis Onyia - TRAILER - 10 Years

Kathy Sells - RATES - 15 Years

Terrence Burgess - DRIVER TRAINING - 8 Years

Joseph Flores - TRUCK - 7 Years

Sandi Rosas - ACCOUNTING - 14 Years

Joye Dunn - ACCOUNTING - 6 Years

Munib Sebo - DETAIL - 6 Years

Deshard Middleton - CST SRVC - 13 Years

Kayla Kitchen - DRIVER RECRUITING - 6 Years

Eric Saldana - TRUCK - 5 Years

Vickey Johnson - ACCOUNTING - 13 Years

Bill Lee - NIGHT DISPATCH - 5 Years

Highlighting 5 years or more of service