June 2020 Birds Eye Newsletter

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BIRDS EYE NEWS

2 0 2 0 JUNE

CONTENTS

Important Dates

2

Hours of Service Changes

National PTSD Awareness Day - 6/27

3

Highway Hero

National Logistics Day - 6/28

4

Terry York Retirement

5

New Transportation Center Lone Star College

6-8

June Anniversaries April Driver Awards Paragon Employee of the Month

Independence Day - 7/4

INDUSTRY NEWS

FMCSA ANNOUNCES FINAL HOS RULE E ffective September 2020, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will begin enforcing its final rule on Hours of Service (HOS), a revision influenced by feedback from thousands of CMV drivers and the general motoring public. The goal for these changes is to provide drivers with more flexibility without compromising safety.

• 30-minute break provision: a break following eight hours of consecutive driving time (instead of on-duty time) now allows an on-duty/not driving period to qualify as the required break.

• Sleeper-berth exception: drivers can split their required 10 hours off-duty into two periods: an 8/2 split, or a 7/3 split—with neither period counting against the driver’s 14 hour driving window.

• Adverse driving conditions: two hours have been added to the maximum window during which driving is permitted when a driver encounters adverse driving conditions.

The current rule already permits two hours of additional driving time on the 11-hour clock, so this expands the 14-hour onduty clock by two hours as well.

• Short-haul exception: available to certain drivers, this exemption lengthens the drivers’ maximum on duty period from 12 to 14 hours, and extends the distance limit within which the driver may operate from 100 air miles to 150.

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“The Department of Transportation and the Trump Administration listened directly to the concerns of truckers seeking rules that are safer and have more flexibility—and we have acted,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao said.

“America’s truckers are doing a heroic job keeping our supply chains open during this unprecedented time and these rules will provide them greater flexibility to keep America moving.”

Stevens Compliance Manager Donna Stephen commented on how these changes will affect the Stevens driver force. “We are excited about these clarifications and additions that will keep our drivers successful! We will be working with Qualcomm to ensure that the rules will be tracked on every truck. These rules, especially the thirty-minute break rule, can make all of the difference when picking up or delivering a load!”

Stevens Independent Contractor and Trainer Michael Noack is eager to see what other changes these new rules will bring about. “These changes are a great stepping stone in the right direction but are only a small step into what is to come. As a trainer, I am excited to help implement these new rules with my students and cannot wait to see what changes come next!”

Written By: Sidney Mireles

Honorary Highway

HERO I

n the morning hours of May 27th, 2020, Stevens Transport driver Santos Vega Ramos found himself at “the right place at the right time” while driving through adverse weather conditions in Atlanta, GA. He noticed the truck next to him swerve from the right lane to the middle.

“The next thing I knew, the truck jackknifed and went over the side rail.

The tractor separated from the trailer, and I saw the sleeper up in the air!”

Santos quickly could jump was quite scary. and was able

parked his truck on the shoulder and, before he out of his truck, flames engulfed the tractor. “It Luckily, I had my fire extinguisher on my truck to use that to help douse the fire and save the other driver’s life. Once the flames were contained, I called my Driver Manager and the Safety department to explain the scenario that had just occurred.”

Driver Operations Lead Matt Witt praised Santos for his swift and heroic actions.

“Santos is a prime example of someone that restores faith in humanity and went above and beyond to help another fellow driver in need. We are grateful to have this amazing driver working with us, and we cannot thank him enough for everything he’s doing for Stevens and America!”

Santos stated that although this incident was unexpected, it was just another part of his job. “I’m always willing to help anyone in any way that I can. I’m also glad that I was running early on my load and was trained on exactly what to do in that situation so that I was able to help in that situation!”

We thank you Santos, and all professional drivers who keep our roadways safe on a daily basis!

Written by: Sidney Mireles

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT STEVENS

CELEBRATING 10 SUCCESSFUL YEARS WITH STEVENS! Stevens Transport, Inc. and Stevens Transport CD, Inc. celebrated the honorable driving career of Terry York, an Independent Contractor, who retired on May 12, 2020, after 37 years of service to the transportation industry. The veteran driver logged more than one million miles over his career with no major preventable accidents.

Terry’s Driver Manager, Sean Hunter, commended Terry on his professionalism and willingness to assist in any situation. “Terry’s hard work ethic and determination made him a very successful driver.

He was consistently on the go and was always ask questions to improve and grow. He a pleasure to have on my fleet, and I wish him the best during his retirement!”

Terry stated that he will cherish every memory he created with his Stevens family, and expressed his appreciation for the support and knowledge he gained during his time at Stevens. “My ten years with Stevens have been nothing but wonderful. My trainers, along with my first Driver Manager, were my first mentors who showed me the ropes and helped introduce me to the business. Quickly after, my circle of support grew to encompass everyone at Stevens, and I’m glad to have a family away from home!”

Terry plans to spend time with his family during his retirement. “I watched my grandchildren grow up through a phone screen. I’m excited to spend some quality time with them, and have the opportunity to visit other family members that I have not seen in a while!”

Congratulations on all of your success Terry, and best wishes during your retirement!

Written by: Sidney Mireles

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT STEVENS

LONE STAR COLLEGE UNVEILS NEW TRANSPORTATION CENTER

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tevens Transport’s partner training facility, Lone Star Corporate College located in Spring, TX, has officially welcomed their first students to their new Transportation & Global Logistics Technology Center. The grand opening was a virtual celebration with featured guests including Texas Workforce Commission’s Commissioner Julian Alvarez III, Lone Star College Board of Trustees’ Chair Dr. Alton Smith, and Stevens’ Vice President of Driver Relations and Administration Angela Horowitz.

The state-of-the-art facility spans 16,000 square feet on more than eight acres of training space for students to train and obtain their Commercial Driver’s License. Trainees will have access to six classrooms, a driving track, six backing pads, and a truck driving simulator. The facility is also an approved Third Party Test site, allowing students to take the Department of Motor Vehicle’s driving skills and road exam within 24 – 48 hours of course completion.

“Lone Star College will serve the trucking and global logistics industry by providing the next generation of CDL drivers with state-of-the-art technology and equipment, providing new career opportunities and expanded training,” Lone Star’s Senior Associate Vice Chancellor Linda Head said. “This center would not be possible without the collaboration of public organizations and private industries and I am appreciative of their efforts in making this center a reality.”

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Stevens will sponsor a student’s training and offer a professional driving position upon successful completion of their training.

Since 2011, Lone Star has trained over 5,000 of Stevens’ hired drivers, and graduates have collectively earned over 300 Driver Awards and driven over 25 million miles in the past decade.

“Lone Star’s vision to create a dynamic state-of-the-art transportation training center has become a reality and serves as a model for the entire country,” Angela said. “Our longstanding partnership with Lone Star College has resulted in over 5,000 students receiving their CDLs and launching a successful professional driving career. We look forward to much-continued success together in this amazing facility.”

Lone Star graduate and current Stevens Owner-Operator James Hodge is excited to show his truck to prospective students at the new center. “I truly enjoyed the thorough training I received at Lone Star. I’ve brought my truck to the campus multiple times since then, and loved explaining to the prospective students how successful I have been since joining Stevens. I look forward to continuing this tradition at the new campus!”

Written by: Sidney Mireles

#MEETSTEVENS Deorion Landers Detail Shop Lead Technician Deorion joined Stevens in February of 2012. He is recognized for constantly striving to go above and beyond to ensure that drivers receive a beautifully detailed truck. One of Deorion’s favorite parts of his job is the leadership experience that he has gained in his eight years. When we asked Deorion what he attributes to his success, he stated: “I know that I have satisfactorily completed my day when a driver tells me that I’ve turned their truck into the perfect living space. Making this perfect space provides the driver with more motivation to drive more efficiently to provide for their family, which in the end brings me the ultimate satisfaction.” Deorion also passed along some sound advice for our new associates: “Learn everything you can and ask questions along the way. Doing this will not only help you grow professionally and personally, but also advance into higher positions within the company!”

Outside of work, Deorion enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, and growing the Mesquite Soccer Club, which he founded!

Jeremy Shahan Program Analyst Jeremy joined Stevens in March of 2019. He is recognized for his consistent teamwork mentality and supporting operations by turning loose ideas into useful tools that drive results. One of Jeremy’s favorite parts of his job is being able to see a myriad of different aspects into how Stevens operates, and creating reports and queries that make someone else’s job a bit easier. When we asked Jeremy what he attributes to his success, he responded: “My team helps me strive to broaden the scope of my knowledge and instill confidence in me to push myself further every day. I consider the day a success when something that I’ve created has helped lighten the load of another associate.” Jeremy also passed along some sound advice for our new associates: “It might seem daunting or even overwhelming to catch your bearings. But once you find your footing, the work and people will make it all feel rewarding!” Outside of work, Jeremy enjoys writing and making music, playing computer and board games, and spending time with his wife and 4-year-old son.

Lisa Sutton Carrier Support Specialist Lisa joined Stevens in September of 2013. She is recognized for her hard work and attention to detail while relaunching Stevens Transport TL’s carrier quick pay program. One of Lisa’s favorite parts of her job is having the opportunity to grow her carrier list alongside her amazing team. When we asked Lisa what she attributes to her success, she said: “My success translates to my team’s success. If I am giving my best every day, then my teammates can easily complete their tasks and reach more of their daily goals.” Lisa also passed along some sound advice for our new associates: “Stick with it. It may be a bit overwhelming at times, but don’t be afraid to ask questions because your team is here to help you succeed!”

Outside of work, Lisa enjoys fishing, camping, and spending time with her 11-year-old son.

Birds Eye News - Spread Your Wings

#MEETSTEVENS articles written by: Chernario Torres

#MEETSTEVENS Connor Smith Business Counselor Connor joined Stevens in June of 2019. He is recognized for the exceptional service he provides to the Independent Contractors. One of Connor’s favorite parts of his job is advising the many different Independent Contractors and coaching and guiding them on how to effectively run a successful business. When we asked Connor what he attributes to his success, he explained: “My motivation comes from my want to help others be as successful as they can be. When an Independent Contractor is both profitable and happy, I know I am successfully completing the day!” Connor also passed along some sound advice for our new associates: “Don’t be afraid to ask questions, whether it’s your teammates or even our senior drivers. Odds are they have had the exact experience, and are able to mentor you to success.” Outside of work, Connor enjoys playing golf, hunting, and fishing.

Larry Bradford Safety Lane Supervisor Larry joined Stevens in September of 1991. He is recognized for his dedication and loyalty to Stevens, as well as his hard work ethic and unfailing attitude. One of Larry’s favorite parts of his job is using his expertise and experience to educate drivers on the various maintenance issues with their equipment that they will come across. When we asked Larry what he attributes to his success, he replied: “I really enjoy the various challenges that arise daily that require me to use my problem-solving skills to produce solutions. It makes me happy when a driver is able to use the knowledge that I have passed along to them to educate their fellow drivers, creating a positive domino effect!” Larry also passed along some sound advice for our new associates: “Come into your position with an open mind. You will be learning something new every day, from operations, maintenance, recruiting, etc., so continually ask questions!” Outside of work, Larry enjoys bass fishing and spending time with his wife, four children, and two grandchildren.

Steven Ouellette Company Driver Manager Steven joined Stevens in October of 2019. He is recognized for his meticulous attention to detail and exemplary communication with drivers. One of Steven’s favorite parts of his job is finding solutions to new and complex problems. When we asked Steven what he attributes to his success, he said: “My hard work ethic, along with the support of my team, has helped me get to where I am today. I know I have successfully completed my day when all of my drivers are having a successful day on the road.” Steven also passed along some sound advice for our new associates: “There is something new to learn every day, so constantly ask questions. Your team and co-workers want to see you succeed, and are willing to help you in any way!” Outside of work, Steven enjoys spending time with his family.

#MEETSTEVENS articles by: Chernario Torres Birds Eye News - written Spread Your Wings

JUNE ANNIVERSARIES

THANK YOU FOR YOUR DEDICATION

Transport Rachel Easley - DRIVER SERVICES (LEAD) - 31 Years Billy Lemanski - REGIONAL OPS (LEAD) - 23 Years Rick Riddle - ACCOUNTING (LEAD) - 32 Years Josie Garza - DRIVER RECRUITING - 21 Years Pam Gimmarco - BROKERAGE (OHIO II) - 20 Years Manny Espinoza - NIGHT DISPATCH - 18 Years Jim Adams - DRIVER TRAINING - 17 Years Amy Moon - ACCOUNTING - 16 Years Craig Motley - SCHOOL - 16 Years Morten Djerf - SCHOOL - 15 Years Carol Springer - ACCOUNTING - 13 Years April Bergstrasser - ACCOUNTING - 13 Years Matt Gray - BROKERAGE (LEAD) - 12 Years Ashley Sadd - EXECUTIVE SUPPORT - 12 Years Myra Hook - PRODUCE TEAM - 11 Years Michael Jeffers - DRIVER ORIENTATION - 10 Years

Troy Dailey - DRIVER TRAINING - 7 Years Kayla Cooper - OS&D - 7 Years Haley Moses - DRIVER RECRUITING - 7 Years Patrisia Estrada -DEDICATED OPS - 7 Years

Paragon Art Molett - TRAILER BODY - 29 Years Ekrem Salic - TRUCK - 21 Years Millie Braucht - ADMIN - 18 Years Senad Dedovic - TRUCK - 17 Years Pat Yarbrough - ALLIANCE (LEAD) - 11 Years Josh Martinez - TRUCK - 8 Years Melvin Loveless - ALLIANCE - 8 Years Jesus Rodriguez - TRUCK - 7 Years Pedro Barillas - TRAILER - 6 Years Timothy Simmons - ALLIANCE - 6 Years Christina Guillory - TRAILER - 5 Years

APRIL

Driver Awards Jermaine Acy

1st Place Contractor

Roy Gatabaki

Runner Up Contractor

Liann Reyes-Collins

1st Place Trainer Of The Month

Norbert Kolozsvari

Runner Up Trainer Of The Month

* Highlighting 5 years or more of service

JOIN STEVENS TRANSPORT AT THE 2020 BAGEL RUN! The highly anticipated Bagel Run event, presented by the Aaron Family JCC, is taking place on Father’s Day, June 21, 2020 at 8 AM! The event has been transformed into a virtual race experience that will take place on Facebook Live! The FREE event will allow you to complete the route at your convenience and at your own pace. Gather your friends, family members, and/or pets and run/walk in your own neighborhood!

All participants will be emailed a virtual bib and custom Bagel Run certificate of completion. Participants will also receive a custom 2020 Bagel Run Finishers Medal (while supplies last).

To sign-up yourself and your family for this awesome event, please email smireles@stevenstransport.com with your name and year of birth! Don’t delay, the last day to sign up is June 20th!

PARAGON LEASING, L.P. EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

NATHANIEL SANCHEZ - JUNE 2020

Nathaniel joined Paragon Leasing in September of 2016 and is an Interior and Body Technician in the Body Shop. Nathaniel’s high proficiency and business mindset have helped him complete his daily task, even staying late to ensure that a task is complete. Nathaniel is also very resourceful, and will invent creative ways to repair interior parts when vendors do not have them in stock. Stevens Transport and Paragon Leasing, L.P. are very proud to have associates like Nathaniel and are pleased to honor him as the Paragon Leasing Employee of the Month for June 2020.

Emmanuel Martinez Collado 1st Place Company Driver

Robert Mitchell

Runner-Up Company Driver Of The Month

Daniel J. O’donnell 1st Place Grad Driver

Hugo Cervantes

Runner Up Grad Driver

Veronica Martinez & Roger Murphy

Team Drivers Of The Month

Nicholas Nubin

1st Place Owner Operator Of The Month

Philisen Bowers

1st Place Dedicated Driver

David Roehm-Gougeon Runner-Up Dedicated Driver

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