Birds Eye Newsletter - Jan 2020

S

P

R

E

A

D

Y

O

U

R

W

I

N

G

S

BIRDS EYE NEWS

CONTENTS 2

Stevens Driver Spreading Holiday Cheer

3-7

2019 Annual Awards

8-11

Stevens Holiday Party

12

January Anniversaries November Driver Awards Paragon Employee of the Month

January Events Benefits Open Enrollment New Years Day - 1/1 MLK Day - 1/20

INDUSTRY NEWS

Stevens Driver and Family Spread Holiday Cheer To Fellow Drivers “Thanks to the community’s generous donations, our family and friends were able to make 100 bags with everything that we envisioned,” Daniel said. “We also included a holiday card and a letter that our entire family signed as a token of our appreciation for them working during the Christmas holiday.”

On Christmas Day, the family traveled to four different truck stops to give the bags to as many drivers as possible. If a driver did not answer the door, the bag was still left at their door. “We wanted to make sure that we could reach as many drivers as we could, regardless of answer,” Daniel said.

“Christmas is my family’s favorite holiday,” Stevens Transport driver Daniel Herring said. “I worked hard every day since I started so I would be able to spend that day with my family.”

Wanting to pursue a childhood dream of driving trucks, Daniel searched for a company where he could make his dream a reality. After discovering Stevens’ tuition reimbursement program, Daniel was able to obtain his CDL at CDS Tractor Trailer Training in Woodford, VA. Daniel has since traveled across the country, delivering loads on both an OTR and dedicated route.

This past Christmas, Daniel and his family wanted to pay it forward. “My 14-year-old son thought of the perfect idea making bags that we would pass out to fellow drivers. We were thinking that these bags would include the trucker essentials - a toothbrush and toothpaste, beef jerky, hand sanitizers, hand warmers, and other snacks.”

While the Herring family purchased some of the items, a Facebook post published by Daniel’s wife brought community partners together, making this project bigger than the family had originally planned.

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

The Herring family was blown away by how successful the project was, and are hopeful that it will grow in the following years. “From personal experience, I know how hard it is for a driver to be away from their family, and we wanted to make sure they were able to celebrate the holidays with their extended family on the road. Based on this year’s success, we are aiming to double the number of bags next year, and continue on the upward trend in the following years.”

Daniel’s Driver Manager, Garrett Baeder, was very touched by the generosity of Daniel and his family. “Daniel’s charitable character has been displayed since his first day on my fleet, and I am glad that he and his family were able to showcase that this holiday season. I am excited to see Daniel grow as a driver on my fleet, and I look forward to doing all I can to set him up for success at Stevens!”

If you or someone you know is looking to begin their career as a professional driver, please call 1-800-333-8595 or visit stevenstransport.com Written by: Sidney Mireles

Employee of the Year Matt Gray – Total Logistics Director - Hire Date 06.02.08 (11 Years Employed) Matt has accomplished much during the year, including developing pricing tools to monitor and manage trucks and used those tools daily to help the Total Logistics network deal with one of the largest market-rate corrections in memory. The results of these tools and this management effort resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars in increased profit. Matt also worked with our technical support staff to develop a mobile app for the Total Logistics network. Matt’s hard work both in the development and usage adoption rate have been instrumental in over 40% of our brokerage loads being tracked by the mobile app.

Congratulations Matt!

Employee of the Year – Runners Up Albert Davis –Training Counselor – Hire Date 08.14.13 (6 Years Employed) Albert first joined the Stevens family as both a company and an Independent Contractor driver.

Since joining Stevens internally, Albert has gained experience in both the Operations and Training departments. Serving as a Training Counselor and Student Planner back-up, Albert possesses an extensive amount of knowledge about Stevens and never shies away from helping others whether it is a trainee, counselor, trainer, or anyone in need. Albert has also successfully trained all other Counselors in the department, and has helped set a new standard for trainee retention, retaining 75% of all students in 2019 with more starts per month than the last 3 years.

Congratulations Albert!

Robert Rodriguez -Manager of OS&D – Hire Date 10.30.17 (2 Years Employed) Robert always leads by example and never complains. He has developed a great skill set by talking with and responding to customers’ needs and always keeps the company’s best interest in mind.

Robert is willing to answer calls at any hour, and will jump right in to ensure the situation at hand is resolved. Robert has truly stepped up in his managerial position and has shown great success. When he sees a deficiency in an area, he works to not only correct the issue, but find sustainable solutions.

Robert will also be celebrating his marriage in February of 2020!

Congratulations Robert!

Alex Rice - Dispatch Planner – Hire Date 01.03.18 (Almost 2 Years Employed) Alex has exceeded expectations in his position since starting in January of 2018. He started his journey at Stevens in the Rail department, and excelled in his multiple roles by improving utilization and service. Alex was the unanimous choice to help pave the way for the Comfort Zone planning group initiative. He has improved driver and truck utilization since he started managing the Comfort Zones, with the fleet growing almost 50% since its inception, and has created waiting lists for all of the comfort zones. Alex also manages the most difficult freight in our entire network, including Freshly, LXP, Tyson, Whole Foods, and Walmart. In addition to his full-time duties, he took on Christmas holiday Fed-Ex planning. Most importantly, Alex has a great attitude, is very humble, and is unbelievable dependable; he never makes excuses and always finds solutions.

Congratulations Alex!

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

Office of the Year - Dallas Office The Dallas office had a great year, delivering record profits while facing daunting obstacles head-on. One of the unique and extraordinary traits about the Dallas Office this year was the culture that they had while getting those results. The office circled the wagons and made a conscious effort to challenge themselves not only as a team but as individuals to point the finger of accountability inwards. To not just work to elevate their game, but to try to elevate the game of those around them as well. And it showed in the results.

Great job Dallas Office!

Office of the Year Runner-Up - Canada Office The Canada office has an incredible year as well. At times you would have sworn that they had to be wearing spandex and capes w/ superhuman powers. But the Canada office didn’t need spandex or capes; they had the thing that makes their engines really roar: Donuts.

Donuts combined with an unbelievable work ethic, hard-headed determination, and an undying desire to lead the pack. The Canada team tackled challenges without hesitation and focused on finding solutions under pressure vs sitting back and playing it safe. It has been a spectacular effort and we look forward to seeing the office’s performance in 2020.

Great job Canada Office!

Employees of the Year Sarah Ridgeway Sarah and the Chicago II office did not have an easy year. The profits came but it took a lot of added elbow grease to get there. Sara was forced to take on some new challenges and stomach the word “NO” more than she probably ever has. Through it all, Sarah did not complain (venting doesn’t count). She put her nose to the grindstone, stepped out of her comfort zone, and put in the effort to get the job accomplished. She did not have to agree with it or like it, she would simply get it done. We are very proud of her accomplishments this year!

Congratulations Sarah!

Connor Maas Connor may not have been a member of the TL team for very long but his impact has quickly been felt. Connor has proven himself to be a genuine man of work ethic and integrity. Both internally, as well as to our carrier partners. He comes into the office daily, ready to work with a great attitude and contagious excitement. He is consistently part of the solution and we look forward to having Connor as a member of our team for years to come.

Congratulations Connor!

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

Written by: Matt Gray

Employee of the Year: DILLON SHIPLETT Dillon joined the Paragon team in May of 2018, and is a Tire Technician in the Tire Shop. He has never missed a day and has a 100% Manager Rating, with his managers commenting on his outstanding work ethic and teamwork abilities. Dillion is also very thorough with all repairs and conducts a safe work environment.

1st Runner Up: CHESSA CORADO Chessa joined the Paragon team in November of 2014, and is a Mechanic in the Trailer Shop. She has only missed one day and has a 100% Manager Rating, with her managers commenting on her outstanding willingness to go above and beyond to make sure that all repairs are completed in a timely and safe manner.

2nd Runner Up: DANIEL SANTANA Daniel joined the Paragon team in February of 2016, and is a Painter in the Truck Body Shop. He only missed one day and has a 100% Manager Rating, with his managers commenting on his punctuality, his attention to detail, and his ability to provide excellent customer service while demonstrating advanced proficiency in his craft. Daniel is an exciting young asset to the Paragon Leasing family and we are excited to have him.

3rd Runner Up: FRANCISCO HERNANDEZ Francisco joined the Paragon team in March of 2000 and is the Leadman of the Yard Maintenance Department. He only missed one day and has a 95% Manager Rating, with his managers commenting on his outstanding and professional work ethic. He is always early, stays late when needed, and will work on weekends and holidays to complete tasks that cannot be completed during normal business hours.

Written by: Sidney Mireles

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

Company Driver of the Year DANIEL PRESCOTT Daniel joined Stevens in June of 2014 and graduated with his CDL from US Truck Driver Training School in Sterling Heights, MI. Daniel enjoyed the training he received at Stevens and cherished his over-the-road training with his trainer Sergio Zaragosa. When we asked Daniel what he attributes to his success, he explained: “My Driver Manager, Red Sanderson, is my number one fan while I’m out on the road. He, along with everyone at Stevens, really cares about their drivers and I am super appreciative of that.” Daniel also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Listen to the company policies, because those are there to help you succeed. Also always drive ahead and look forward to your ultimate goal.” Outside of work, Daniel enjoys spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and relaxing.

Company Driver of the Year Runner-Up JEFFREY THOMAS Jeffrey joined Stevens in July of 1994 and graduated with his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy in Dallas, TX. Jeffrey enjoyed the training he received at Stevens, and will be celebrating his 26-year anniversary with Stevens in July! When we asked Jeffrey what he attributes to his success,he replied: “There have been many influential people, including Angela Horowitz, Gloria Vladi, and my Driver Manager Carl Anderson, who have helped me become the driver that I am today. I am very appreciative and thankful for them every day!” Jeffrey also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “There are no shortcuts that you can take in this job. Also, always keep yourself grounded and always push yourself to reach all of your goals!” Outside of work, Jeffrey enjoys relaxing and exploring new places

Contractor Driver of the Year MATTHEW WENDELL Matthew joined Stevens in April of 2013 and graduated with his CDL from Amarillo Community College in Amarillo, TX. Matthew enjoyed the training he received at both Amarillo Community College and Stevens, and was able to visit 48 states in the country during his training! When we asked Matthew what he attributes to his success, he said: “All of my Driver Managers have been great support systems while I have been out on the road. I would not be where I am today without their constant support and knowledge and I am thankful for them every day!” Matthew also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Consistency is the key!

Also, don’t forget to always plan out your trips well to ensure the best delivery every time!” Outside of work, Matthew enjoys spending time on the beach, fishing, and spending time with his family.

Contractor Driver of the Year Runner-Up KEVIN BARTIE Kevin joined Stevens in October of 2018 and graduated with his CDL from The CDL School in Miami, FL. Kevin enjoyed the training he received at both The CDL School and Stevens, and was very appreciative of all of the knowledge his trainer, Dallas Davis, passed along to him! When we asked Kevin what he attributes to his success, he answered: “My Driver Manager, Landon Greenup, has been a very helpful resource while I am out on the road. He also makes sure that everything is set up for me before the weekend and I appreciate that very much.” Kevin also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Don’t forget that this is more than just a job, it’s a lifestyle. Also, make sure to always be safe and plan your trips ahead.” Outside of work, Kevin enjoys spending time with his family and working out.

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

Company Trainer of the Year MARK WOLFHOPE Mark joined Stevens in September of 2009 and graduated with his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy in Dallas, TX. Mark enjoyed the training he received at Stevens, and reflected on how helpful his instructors were! When we asked Mark what he attributes to his success, he mentioned: “The hard work ethic that I have developed during my time as a professional driver has been very influential in my success. I strive to make every day better than the last, and know I have completed that goal when I have successfully delivered my loads.” Mark also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Always work hard, and the rewards will follow. Also, try your best to accept all of the loads that you are given, because new experiences lie ahead!” Outside of work, Mark enjoys going to the lake and spending time with his wife.

Company Trainer of the Year Runner-Up LARS JOHNSTON Lars joined Stevens in November of 2017 and graduated with his CDL from the Truck Driver Institute in Saucier, MI. Lars enjoyed the training he received from both the Truck Driver Institute and Stevens, and was excited to continue his career at such a reputable company. When we asked Lars what he attributed to his success, he stated: “My trainer, Edward Boelcher, was very instrumental in the development of my driving style. He really taught me everything I needed to know and I am very grateful for him.” Lars also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Always make sure to check your reefer when you are loaded to make sure that everything is good with your loads. Also, always double-check your routes with the atlas to make sure you are going the best way you can!”

Outside of work, Lars enjoys spending time with his friends and family and fishing.

Contractor Trainer of the Year GERALD RHODEN Gerald joined Stevens in November of 1998 and graduated from Truck Driving School of America in Denver, CO. Gerald enjoyed the training he received at both the Truck Driving School of America and Stevens, and commended the instructors for all of the knowledge they shared with him. When we asked Gerald what he attributes to his success, he explained: “Everyone at Stevens has played a vital role in my success. I would not be where I am today without them, and I am thankful for them every day.” Gerald also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Work hard and work smart every day. You have a big support system rooting you on, so keep pushing yourself every day and never give up!” Outside of work, Gerald enjoys racing cars, restoring vintage cars, and visiting his family in Jamaica.

Contractor Trainer of the Year Runner-Up HARVEY WHITE Harvey joined Stevens in February of 2018 and graduated with his CDL from Careers World Wide in Keenesburg, CO. Harvey enjoyed the training he received at both Careers World Wide and Stevens, and even graduated at the top of his class! When we asked Harvey what he attributes to his success, he explained: “My Driver Manager, Chris Nelson, and Business Counselor, Michael Sommer, have helped me in so many ways, and have done everything they could for me. I am so glad I have their constant support, and I cannot wait to continue my truck driving journey with them by my side!” Harvey also offered some sound advice for our new drivers: “Always follow all of the rules of the road, as well as the company policies, and always be safe. If you do all of these, you will not have any problems when you are on the road.” Outside of work, Harvey enjoys working on different house projects, spending time with his family, and relaxing.

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

New Driver of the Year DANIEL NAZARIO Daniel joined Stevens in August of 2019 and graduated from Tampa Truck Driving School in Tampa, FL. Daniel enjoys the training he received at both Tampa Truck Driving School and Stevens, and cherished the lasting memories he made with his trainers and classmates. When we asked Daniel what he attributes to his success, he responded: “I owe all of my success to my trainer Bob Sporka. Without Bob’s guidance and support, I would not be where I am today, which is a profession that I truly love.” Daniel also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Always listen to others, and make sure to always pay attention to your surroundings. If you love what you are doing, then you will never work a day in your life.” Outside of work, Daniel enjoys building scooters, rebuilding car motors, and making custom car frames.

New Driver of the Year Runner-Up PAUL HALEY Paul joined Stevens in November of 2018 and graduated with his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy in Dallas, TX. Paul enjoyed the training he received from Stevens and was excited to travel all across the country and in all types of weather conditions. When we asked Paul what he attributes to his success, he explained: “My strong belief system and my family have continually supported me through my entire journey in this industry, and I am really appreciative for them. I work hard every day for them, and have been very satisfied with how far I have come in this industry!” Paul also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Always make sure to take your time because slow and steady wins the race! Also, know that the more time you spend on the road, the easier the job will become!” Outside of work, Paul enjoys spending time with his friends and family and fishing

Owner Operator of the Year GREGORY PARKS Gregory joined Stevens in November of 2009 and graduated with his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy in Dallas, TX. Gregory enjoyed the training he received from Stevens and was grateful for the in-depth training he received from his instructors. When we asked Gregory what he attributes to his success, he stated: “My biggest supporters at Stevens are without a doubt Angela Horowitz, Bonnie Dorsey, Ashlie Brock, Archie Roberts, and Joe Jenkins. Without these wonderful individuals, I would not be so successful in a career that I love.” Gregory also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Always trust your Driver Manager and listen to what they’re saying. Keeping a constant flow of communication is vital to having a successful career in this industry.” Outside of work, Gregory enjoys riding his motorcycle and spending time with his grandson.

Owner Operator of the Year Runner-Up PATRICK BATIONO Patrick joined Stevens in March of 2015 and graduated from Lone Star Community College in Houston, TX. Patrick enjoyed the training that he received at both Lone Star Community College and Stevens and was confident to begin his new career as a professional driver. When we asked Patrick what he attributes to his success, he said: “Everyone in the Safety department have been my biggest supporters while I have been out on the road. I cannot say how thankful I am for each of them every day!” Patrick also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “No matter the situation, make sure to always keep your patience. Also, always keep your head high, no matter the situation.” Outside of work, Patrick enjoys riding his motorcycle, shooting pool, and watching movies.

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

Team of the Year JIM & ANN LEWIS Jimmie and Ann Lewis joined Stevens in July of 2010 and graduated with their CDL from Stevens Driving Academy in Dallas, TX. The team enjoyed the training they received from Stevens and enjoyed the opportunity to show the students and instructors some of their truck driving secrets.

When we asked the team what they credit their success to, they replied: “Everyone at Stevens, from the Operations department, to Safety, Driver Services, everyone in the Contractor Division, and those in the shop, is the reason why we are so successful today. This year was very challenging for us, but we knew that we could not give up. We are very glad that we didn’t because now we received this amazing achievement!” The team also offered advice for our new drivers: “Communication is key. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t know or understand something, because anyone will be more than happy to answer them.” Outside of work, the team enjoys outdoor activities, do-it-yourself home projects, and spending time with their family.

Team of the Year Runner-Up CHRISTOPHER COOPER & SUZANNE IRVIN Christopher and Suzanne joined Stevens in September 2018 and both graduated from Stevens Driving Academy in Dallas, TX. The team enjoyed the training they received at Stevens, and were excited to pursue their new career as a team. When we asked Christopher what he attributes the team’s success to, he stated: “Our internal motivation to deliver every load satisfactorily. We always plan accordingly to make sure that we never have a late load; doing this has made us very successful!” Suzanne also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Don’t sit and wait for something to come to you. Always be two steps ahead of everything that you do, and it will make every day better than the last.” Outside of work, the team enjoys going to the lake, indoor skydiving, and taking vacations.

Dedicated Driver of the Year ROBERT REICHERT Robert joined Stevens in April 2007 and graduated with his CDL from AAA School of Trucking in Philadelphia, PA. Robert thoroughly enjoyed the training he received from his trainer, Michael Bush, and is even still in contact with him today! When we asked Robert what he attributes to his success, he explained: “My Driver Manager, Todd Ellison, has been the biggest support system while I am out on the road. He is able to answer all of my questions and was able to work out a route that benefits me very well” Robert also passed along some sound information for those thinking about joining the dedicated fleet: “If you enjoy building personal connections with your shippers and receivers, the dedicated fleet is for you! The support system is outstanding, and they will help you succeed!” Outside of work, Robert enjoys watching NASCAR races and collecting coins

Dedicated Driver of the Year Runner-Up KEITH PRINCE Keith joined Stevens in June of 2016 and graduated with his CDL from Ranger College in Ranger, TX. Keith enjoyed the training he received at both Ranger College and Stevens and treasured the relationships he made with his classmates. When we asked Keith what he attributes to his success, he answered: “The instructors at Ranger College were amazing and passed along so much valuable knowledge about the industry. My Driver Managers, including Barbara Roberts, Kevin Navejar, and Michael Bryant, have also been very great supporters who help me with anything I need. I would not be as successful as I am without their support.” Keith also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers: “Always be careful with every trip. Also make sure to not take anything for granted.” Outside of work, Keith enjoys playing the saxophone and relaxing.

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

201

Stevens associates celebrated the end of 20 and dancing at the annual Holiday party. Tak that night! A huge thank you to the Aaron fa and we look forward to celebrating many me

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

19 HOLIDAY PARTY

019 with a night filled with food, fun, ke a look at some of the photos from amily for hosting such a wonderful event emories in 2020!

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

JANUARY ANNIVERSARIES THANK YOU FOR YOUR DEDICATION

NOVEMBER Driver Awards Joseph Ball

1st Place Contractor

James Staples

Runner Up Contractor

Moses Rodas-Munoz

1st Place Trainer Of The Month

Jose Alberto Perez

Runner Up Trainer Of The Month

David Maxwell

1st Place Company Driver

James Myrick

Transport

Paragon

Danny Doak - DISPATCH - 27 Years Bobbie Kays - BROKERAGE (KY) - 25 Years Leslie Eaton - DRIVER QUALIFICATIONS - 21 Years Archie Roberts - DRIVER OPERATIONS (LEAD) - 21 Years Deneen Taylor - EDI / DETENTION - 21 Years Don Cohn - OS&D - LEAD - 21 Years Johnny Cox - DRIVER OPERATIONS - 20 Years Rosario Cardenas - CUSTOMER SERVICE - 20 Years Lou Ann Arrona - DRIVER RECRUITING - 20 Years Greg Stevenson - NIGHT DISPATCH - 18 Years Gary Peacock - NIGHT DISPATCH - 17 Years Kenneth Campbell - NIGHT DISPATCH (LEAD) - 16 Years Carlton Cousins - EDI / DETENTION - 16 Years Susan Falco - COMPUTER - 13 Years Anita Williams - EDI / DETENTION - 9 Years Alicia Norwood - BROKERAGE (SC) - 9 Years Brad Turner - DRIVER OPERATIONS (LEAD) - 6 Years Michael Georgen - RAIL - 5 Years Quentin Ford - MEAT TEAM - 5 Years

Fernando Rodriguez - TRAILER BODY - 26 Years David Kisin - TRUCK - 25 Years Elvis Hamzic - ROAD RESCUE - 24 Years Esad Kazic - ALLIANCE (LEAD) - 24 Years Joaquin Martinez - ROAD RESCUE - 23 Years Delano Robinson - TRUCK (LEAD) - 20 Years Lucio Holguin - TRUCK BODY - 18 Years Sevdet Tabakovic - TRUCK - 15 Years Sergio Sauceda - TRUCK BODY - 12 Years Wesley Uribe - PARTS - 10 Years Robert Blanson - TRUCK (LEAD) - 8 Years Courtney Davis - PARTS - 6 Years Juan Villanueva - TRAILER - 5 Years Nedzib Jusic - TRUCK - 5 Years * Highlighting 5 years or more of service

PARAGON LEASING, L.P. EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

Runner-Up Company Driver Of The Month

Jose Salinas

1st Place Grad Driver

William Hartwick

Runner Up Grad Driver

Amanda Adams & Alicia Szen

Team Drivers Of The Month

Gerald Rhoden

1st Place Owner Operator Of The Month

JaMARCUS ANDERSON - JANUARY 2019

JaMarcus joined Paragon in March of 2015 and is the Leadman over the Wash Department. JaMarcus is very experienced with handling all aspects of his position and produces quality work. He always has a great attitude, and is very polite and professional when interacting with customers and fellow co-workers. Stevens Transport and Paragon Leasing, L.P. are very proud to have employees like JaMarcus and we are pleased to honor him as the Paragon Leasing Employee of the month for January 2020.

*Every winner receives monetary compensation, credit to our Stevens merchandise store, as well as a plaque-style certificate of recognition.