View Newsletter - Superior Bulk Logistics

issue 3

Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc.

QUALIT Y IN MOTION

SBL CHANGES DIRECTION FOR POWER UNIT PURCHASES Fasten your seat belt! SBL managers & drivers pick the best new tractors and engines as part of a $25M Capital Plan for 2013. By Superior Carriers President Brian Nowak and Carry Transit President Jim Blackmon As part of our 2013 Capital Plan, Superior Bulk Logistics has ordered 92 new power units: 48 for Superior Carriers and 44 for Carry Transit. How managers and drivers teamed up to exhaustively research and finally choose new “power elite” tractors and engines -- making the momentous decision to change suppliers -- is a story that says much about who we are as a company.

Superior Carriers' new Mack power unit

SBL’s organizational culture values loyalty, and the decision to change from a long-standing power unit supplier was not taken lightly. However, the amount of downtime and repairs needed on recently purchased equipment was becoming a drag on the organization. Once we decided to make a significant investment in new power units, we did our research thoroughly -- which meant physically investigating all marketplace options. For most of 2012, a small but representative senior management team visited the five tractor assembly and six engine assembly plants in North America. Working together with driver trainers, we gained valuable insight into manufacturing challenges as well as vendor management personnel and practices. The differences between Superior Carriers and Carry Transit tractor requirements are surprisingly great, providing for different decision outcomes. Weight is sometimes the top priority for Carry’s customers, while driver comfort while running an extensive reload system network can be a high priority for Superior. Because driver input was critical, roughly 60 driver trainers scrutinized and drove most tractor varieties, providing essential feedback. Our Equipment Purchase History Throughout Superior’s early years (the 1940s and 50s), we bought many different makes and models of trucks. But from the 1960s to the 90s, Superior predominately ran Mack trucks, from the workhorse B Models that really put Superior on the map to the hard-running R Models, MH cabovers, and finally CH Models.

In 1996 we started buying Navistar Internationals, which lasted through 2012 and included the 9200, 9200i, and ProStar models. We used Cummins engines for many years until they were replaced One of the new Kenworth tractors purchased for Carry Transit by Navistar with the MaxxForce engine in 2009. During this time we also bought 38 Volvo tractors with Volvo engines as a competitive comparison. Also, throughout our history, roughly one-third of our drivers have been independent contractors running all makes and models of tractors and engines, and from whom we get valuable feedback. Recent performance and maintenance issues with our 2012 and 2013 Internationals catalyzed SBL to research alternative power units. We found that mergers and acquisitions among tractor and engine manufacturers, plus changing EPA regulations, have had a significant impact on the purchasing landscape. For our 2013 Capital Plan purchases, it became essential to get beyond the sales rhetoric and develop a realworld perspective on our options. Continued on page 2

October 2013

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POWER UNIT PURCHASES Continued from page 1

The Mack Is Back . . . along with Kenworth, Peterbilt Between our manager and driver evaluator teams, we created a detailed informational matrix, documenting for each tractor and engine manufacturer our observations on management, physical plant conditions, labor force, technology, and assembly line processes. The matrix also compared specifications such as price, weight, cab features, interior amenities, ease of maintenance and extra options. We also compiled and analyzed other individual comments on everything from ergonomics to air bags. The final purchase decision: Superior Carriers elected to split our tractor vendor choice for 2013, purchasing 80% from Mack and 20% from Peterbilt. Specifically, Superior has ordered the Mack CXU 613s with the Mack engine (basically, a Volvo 13 L MP 8). We also ordered the newly designed Peterbilt 579 with the proven Cummins 13 L engine. Carry Transit has elected to go with Kenworth as the primary vendor of choice. They will have the older style narrow cab (660) until the newly designed models (680) are available third quarter 2013. They will also come with the Paccar MX engine technology. Units are coming off the assembly line now, and spending a brief time in the modification shops to add necessary components. SBL terminals should see the majority of new trucks hit the yards in October. During our research, any initial apprehension we had about automated transmissions was quickly replaced by strong praise for the ease of driving they afford. Today’s automated transmissions are a far cry technologically from those of decades ago, and are here to stay in the industry. They will slowly be introduced into the fleet, and currently are being tried in the Peterbilt (Eaton UltraShift). Mack’s transmissions will be manual until we are satisfied they have solved their dual PTO issues. Interestingly, we have learned that 40% of Mack Class 8 trucks are coming off the line with no shift capability. Looking Forward As part of our longer term capital plans for Superior, we plan to order 83 tractors in 2014, followed by 74 tractors in 2015. For Carry Transit, we plan to order 30 sleepers and 2 day cabs in 2014, and 29 sleepers and 2 day cabs in 2015. These plans are subject to change given future economic realities and capital priorities. Some Superior Carriers and Carry Transit customers are encouraging us to use natural gas tractors (LNG or CNG) as part of their corporatewide green initiatives. While SBL strongly supports the use of alternative fuels, major problems currently exist, including the low production of largely unproven engines and the limited availability of fueling stations. However, we will continue to explore opportunities to use natural gas, perhaps in short haul dedicated moves such as those in SBL’s Ohio and Florida operating networks. While the major manufacturer decisions and relationships have been forged, this is an extended learning process and technological advancements continue to happen regularly. It will take years to understand the implications of our purchase decisions as they play out in Total Ownership Costs (TOC) pertaining to purchase price, warranty returns, maintenance and operational costs, and resale value. Levels of breakdowns, driver acceptance, dealership repair response, fuel economy, and warranty experience will be major decision factors over time. We believe in the benefits of loyalty and long term relationships with our suppliers, and look forward to establishing a basis for this trust through positive personal experiences with the equipment acquired. In recent years, SBL’s growth has depended on factors other than mergers and acquisitions. Our 2013 capital reinvestment of $25 million back into our company is powerful proof of our faith in the quality of our operations, and most important, of our faith in you . . . those who day in and day out make our company strong. Or, as our CEO Len Fletcher observed: “We are extremely blessed to be in a position to devote large sums of capital back into SBL.  I cannot think of a better example of how committed our owners and management team are to the long term success of our organization than to back up our rhetoric with our finances; or more commonly said, ‘put your money where your mouth is.’ “We continue to search and provide our driving force with the best possible equipment to perform their work.  I am convinced these changes will only further strengthen our organization in the future.”

Now, the easiest delivery in the world. Emailed. Paperless. Green. Visit www.superiorbulklogistics.com/drivingforce October 2013

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TRANSPORMEX ACHIEVES RESPONSIBLE CARE® CERTIFICATION

For over ten years, Transpormex has served as SBL’s exclusive trucking services provider in Mexico, sharing with our company not only business opportunities but a corporate culture of performance excellence. With Transpormex’s recent certification as a Responsible Care® partner company, our two organizations share something else: globally recognized operating standards that contribute to environmental safety in chemical transport. On August 5th, Transpormex Customer Service Manager Misael (Mitch) Ramirez announced to Senior VP and Chief Marketing Officer Gary Watt: “We wish to share with you that due to the implementation, practice and measurement of our processes, based on the methodology of "Responsible Care®," we have been re-certified by the "ANIQ" (National Association of Chemical Industry), in the SARI (Responsible Care® Management System) program, which among other things, ensures that our processes are safe and secure . . . Although this certification is focused on the chemical industry, we share this achievement with all of you.” Watt extended his congratulations to Transpormex on behalf of the entire SBL organization. For Steve Lowman, SBL’s Southwest Region VP and primary regional liaison with Transpormex, the Responsible Care® certification is further confirmation that the companies are true quality partners. "It has always been our goal to provide our customers’ international destinations with a level of service that matches the ‘Superior’ service offered in our domestic operations. It also has been our goal to achieve this level of service while the logistics of the process remain seamless to the shipper. With Transpormex now having achieved Responsible Care® Certification, our ability to provide such service has been realized, as both organizations adhere to the same high standards set by Responsible Care®," he stated. The Responsible Care® initiative sets certification requirements for environmentally safe product handling and transport. Since 2009, SBL has hosted management system workshops that help Responsible Care® member companies (chemical manufacturers) and their partner organizations implement the complex technical requirements required for certification. SBL has been involved in the Responsible Care® initiative since 1997, receiving full certification in 2008, and recertification in 2010 via Responsible Care® Management System (RCMS) 3rd party audit. SBL recognizes the rigor and challenges represented by the Responsible Care® audit process, and commends Transpormex on achieving this important certification. Congratulations to all!

SBL NAMED MOTOR CARRIER MEMBER OF THE YEAR BY ILLINOIS TRUCKING ASSOCIATION By Randy Vaughn, VP-Administration

On September 14th at the closing banquet of the Annual Meeting of the Illinois Trucking Association (ITA), I had the great honor of accepting the Motor Carrier Member of the Year Award on behalf of Superior Bulk Logistics. According to the ITA, the award recognizes “the best in our industry,” and is given to the company that demonstrates outstanding commitment to safety processes and to technology that improves the safety of drivers and the general public. In early 2013, the Illinois Trucking Association invited carriers in the State of Illinois to submit documentation on their safety programs and overall company achievements. I accordingly prepared a detailed award application for both Superior Carriers and Carry Transit, outlining our safety processes and initiatives, and providing information on both beta-tested and currently used safety equipment. The surprise announcement at the September 14th banquet that we had received this coveted award was testimony to the day in, day out efforts of countless SBL employees who keep safety a top priority. The three-day Annual Meeting of the ITA, held at the Normal, Illinois Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, featured keynote speaker Anne Ferro, Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Also featured were ITA Executive Director Matt Hart and American VP-Administration Randy Vaughn Trucking Associations Chairman Mike Card.

October 2013

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TRI LOGISTICS & SBL: A DECADE OF PROBLEM-FREE BORDER CROSSINGS

Superior Bulk Logistics’ success in doing business in Mexico depends upon many factors, including the ability to safely and easily transport across the border trailers filled with a wide variety of bulk products, from hazardous materials to food grade commodities. This year, Superior celebrates ten years of doing just that, thanks to the excellent relationship forged with our border-crossing partner Tri Logistics. Southwest Region VP Steve Lowman is our primary regional liaison in Mexico and works extensively with Tri Logistics as well as our exclusive trucking services provider, Transpormex. He recently commented: “The border-crossing process is a complicated one at best. Having Tri Logistics as our service provider has made this process seamless to Superior Carriers and Carry Transit as well as to our U.S. shippers. Their professionalism and experience have  facilitated 732 SBL shipments into Mexico in 2012 (1464 total crossings), with no compliance issues with U.S. or Mexico Customs Services.” According to Lowman, Tri Logistics participates in a trailer inter-change process that includes a thorough inspection of the trailer upon receipt. This process ensures that the trailer will pass the rigorous inspection by customs, and that all seals are intact for load security, prior to entering Mexico. Since the beginning, the Superior Bulk Logistics /Tri Logistics relationship has been characterized by openness and honesty. Superior Carriers President Brian Nowak recalled early dealings with the company: “When we did our research over ten years ago, Tri Logistics was the only company that walked us correctly through the Hazmat crossing criteria and regulations, instead of skirting the issue and telling us what we wanted to hear. Their background story is unique, with their three principals combining expertise in both U.S. and Mexican customs. They have been very open with us throughout our whole relationship regarding problems as well as successes, and we respect that very much.” At the time of their selection as Superior’s exclusive crossing carrier, Tri Logistics was also among a very few U.S./Mexico border carriers that met USDOT liability insurance requirements. This is a critical factor needed to meet our customers’ risk management requirements while their shipments are in the U.S. A lot has changed with both companies since 2003 when Superior first began doing business with Tri Logistics. Cesar Faz, one of the three principal owners of Tri Logistics, said: “The most noticeable change over the past decade has been a dramatic increase Continued on page 5

SBL EARNS GREAT WEST RISK MANAGEMENT AWARD FOR 2012

Our Company Honored Second Year in a Row

Once again, Superior Bulk Logistics has earned the prestigious Great West Risk Management Award for Safety and Operational Excellence -- one of only four companies to do so in 2012, and our second time in as many years. The award is given by the Great West Casualty Company, which provides the insurance coverages for SBL’s auto liability and general liability. A letter to SBL from Great West President Ron Lawson and Vice President Pete Merrion read in part: “This award is based on various criteria including loss results, prompt and fair claim settlement practices, timely reporting of serious claims to Great West, innovative loss prevention programs, and demonstrated operations excellence.” We congratulate everyone in our company whose performance contributed to this achievement!

Left to right: CEO Len Fletcher, Rob Rimmele (Joe Morton & Son, Inc.), VP-Administration Randy Vaughn, Insurance Administrator Mary Kay Hoffmeister, Peter Merrion (VP, Great West), Superior Carriers President Brian Nowak, Carry Transit President Jim Blackmon, and Senior VP & Chief Marketing Officer Gary Watt.

October 2013

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UPERIOR CARRIERS NEWS SUPERIOR SHINES AS 5-TIME “QUEST FOR QUALITY” AWARD WINNER

For thirty years, Logistics Management (LM) magazine has measured customer service and performance excellence in the transportation industry through an annual Quest for Quality Survey, culminating in awards to honor companies they call “simply the best.” Five times -- and most recently in 2012 -Superior has captured one of these coveted awards in the Bulk Motor Carriers category. Historically, the high credibility of the long-running LM survey has been recognized by industry leaders. Survey respondents are qualified LM readers and veteran buyers of logistics services, and the high volume of responses (6,179 this year) along with sound tabulation approaches ensure meaningful analysis. Companies are evaluated on five criteria: on-time performance, value, information technology, customer service, and equipment & operations.

According to LM, the evaluation itself is a weighted metric -- that is, the scores take into account the importance readers attach to each attribute (on-time performance is number one.) After ranking the attributes, the evaluators grade each provider on a scale of 1 to 3. Companies win when their total scores exceed the average total weighted score in that category, and when they receive at least 5% of the total responses. The Quest for Quality Award winners therefore represent a real-world view of what shippers seek in a world-class logistics provider. Superior Carriers is very proud to be one of the 129 total winners nationwide in all transportation modes for 2012. On October 23rd, LM magazine will honor winners at an awards dinner at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Denver, CO, held on the final evening of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals Annual Conference.

PERSONNEL CHANGES STRENGTHEN, EXPAND PRICING TEAM

Superior Bulk Logistics extends a warm welcome to new Pricing Analyst Kevin Wyrostek, who recently joined our pricing team at corporate headquarters in Oak Brook, IL. Kevin is a 2013 graduate of Augustana College in Rock Island, IL with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance, and a minor in accounting. Kevin stated: “I am excited about being the new Pricing Analyst here at Superior Bulk Logistics, and am eager to contribute to this highly reputable company.” We congratulate Jenny Holub, who joined our company sixteen months ago, on her promotion from Pricing Analyst to Sales Coordinator, in which capacity she will work with SBL’s customers as well as our sales executives.

New Pricing Analyst Kevin Wyrostek

Finally, we give a well-deserved round of applause to former Pricing Supervisor Monika Fitt, who as our new Pricing Manager has oversight for the Pricing Analyst, Sales Coordinator and Movement Setup functions. Monika has been with the company for more than seven years, and we wish her all the best in her new position.

TRI LOGISTICS & SBL Continued from page 4

in trailer volume from all customers, including Superior. To manage this expanding business, we acquired a new facility in 2009, which allowed us to triple our trailer handling capacity.” Faz stated that Tri Logistics has worked hard to combat the serious problem of organized crime in Mexico. “In order to lower the risk of trailer contamination and product or equipment loss, we work very closely with Transpormex through our C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) security program to ensure that all Superior trailers are monitored at all times,” he said. “The high level of professionalism represented by both Superior and Transpormex employees has been one of the leading factors in the success of this ten-year relationship,” Faz said. “We thank all the people involved in the day to day operations, but especially Steve Lowman, President of Superior International Roberto Otañez, Superior Carriers President Brian Nowak, and Pasadena, TX Terminal Dispatcher Willard Perkins -- all of whom have been instrumental in this achievement.”

October 2013

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CARRY TRANSIT NEWS DRIVER APPRECIATION WEEK CELEBRATED NATIONWIDE

Special Message to Drivers from Tom Gorman, SBL’s Director-EHS&S . . .

Every day, our Company drivers make sure that our most essential consumer goods -- food, fuel, medicines -- are delivered to their nationwide destinations on time. You are doing the job more safely and efficiently than ever before, despite increasingly congested highways, demanding logistics schedules and new hours of service regulations. We thank you for your service and commitment! Driver Appreciation Week is a time to let you know that we as a Company recognize that our outstanding reputation in the industry is due to your professionalism and commitment to truly safe, Superior job performance. Not only this week but every week,  I encourage everyone to let our drivers know how much we appreciate all they do to make our Company great. Zero accidents will continue to be our goal!

Carry Transit drivers and terminal staff mark Driver Appreciation Week with food and friendship.

NEWS FLASH!

CARRY TRANSIT PRESIDENT BLACKMON FOUNDING MEMBER OF NEW WBC LOGISTICS COUNCIL! Carry Transit, represented by its longtime President Jim Blackmon, has joined a team of high-profile industry leaders committed to growing the logistics industry in Chicago. Blackmon is a founding member of the Chicago Logistics Leadership Council of World Business Chicago (WBC), Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s nonprofit development organization supporting his Plan for Economic Growth and Jobs. As a member of the inaugural team, Blackmon will help develop a strategy to elevate the Chicago region’s status as a transportation and logistics hub, to increase local businesses and jobs, and to partner with universities and colleges in building a logistics industry workforce. Blackmon serves on the council with industry leaders Ann Drake, Chairman and CEO of DSC Logistics, Paul Fisher, President and CEO of CenterPoint Properties, Robert Nathan, CEO of Load Delivered Logistics, and other prominent executives. Watch for more news in upcoming issues of the Driving Force!

October 2013

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UPERFLO NEWS SUCCESSFUL START-UP TRANSLOAD AT SPARTA, NJ FOR TEMP-SENSITIVE PRODUCT For the first time, one of Superior Carriers’ most valued customers in the Northeast will benefit from the economies of rail-to-truck delivery of methacrylic acid (MAA), thanks to a team effort by customer and carrier to transload the temperature-sensitive product out of our Sparta, NJ SuperFlo site. Since conventional steam heat does not provide the precise temperature control needed to keep MAA within its required range of 90 to 105 degrees F., Superior Carriers modified the front of a new boiler trailer with a heating apparatus that generates evenly controlled “tempered water,” which circulates through a closed loop piping system from the boiler to the rail car spots and back. For added protection during product handling, a safety shower/eye wash station was installed outside the boiler trailer. To test the process, in mid-July the customer shipped to Sparta four ISO tank containers of MAA, to be transloaded into an empty rail car. “The process went exactly as planned,” commented Terminal Manager Tempered water railcar heating apparatus installed for methacrylic acid (MAA) inside Sparta, NJ boiler trailer .  Blue equipment in foreground is heat exchanger used to heat water with steam from boiler; red tank in background is water storage tank for closed loop system to/from railcars.  Piping on left wall is used for tempered water system. Frankie Greene. “We began dedicated service immediately after our test run, and we have experienced no incidents or problems.” Senior VP and Chief Marketing Officer Gary Watt commented: “This was ground-breaking for our customer, since they had not previously been able to benefit from the cost efficiencies of longhaul rail transport combined with short-haul truck deliveries of this product. Prior to this, MAA went direct by truck at much greater expense. To my knowledge, Sparta is the only location in the country transloading large volumes of this product.” Eastern Region VP Johnny Williams commented: "I am extremely proud of our entire team who collaborated to bring this project to Sparta boiler trailer, in which is installed the tempered water fruition. The process is a first for Sparta Transloading, and we are heating system along with the boiler. very excited about future applications of its concept.”

Visit our newly designed websites! www.superiorbulklogistics.com, www.carrytransit.com and www.superior-carriers.com October 2013

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AFETY ZONE OUNCE OF PREVENTION CAN AVERT DISASTER By Tom Gorman, Director - EHS&S

You’ve all the heard the saying: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Nowhere is that maxim truer than in our industry, where taking extra time to assess a situation can prevent a major incident or accident. Recently two Superior Carriers drivers took that extra time, and their actions helped to avert serious consequences. One day in early July, Parker, AZ terminal driver-loader Ken Dionese was about to load a trailer with the hazardous material sodium hydrosulfide when he alertly realized that the tank contained residual product. The customer thanked SBL for the “great catch,” saying: “this could have been disastrous.” We echo their gratitude and commend Ken for being so observant. In another “near miss” in July, Keokuk, IA driver Brian Perry called a customer’s attention to a potential ecological incident. The customer wrote: “Brian reported there was some kind of spill or overflow at Refinery C loadout covering the ground . . . his action helped us to prevent the material from going into the river. Please pass along to Brian our sincere appreciation for his attention to what was going on around him, and taking action to report it.” Our thanks go out to Brian as well. “Routine” Ounces of Prevention One current safety initiative within EHS&S is G.O.A.L.: Get Out and Look. Most fixed object crashes can be prevented by exiting the tractor and checking the surrounding area for hidden obstacles. Taking that extra minute to Get Out and Look helps to avoid the far greater time required for report writing and picture taking, not to mention the costs associated with these claims. At many terminals, mirror check stations are being established to assist you in setting up your mirrors properly to maximize your field of vision on the highway. Perhaps the most effective “ounce of prevention” is your daily vehicle inspection report and thorough pre-trip walk around. Identifying potential safety issues prior to getting on the road enhances our ability to provide great customer service. More important, it can save lives by initiating corrective action on safety concerns before they become hazards. I encourage everyone to follow Ken’s and Brian’s example, and continue to report unsafe conditions observed at a customer or consignee location. Thanks for all you do every day to provide “Superior” customer service -- which includes making a safe trip home!

Now delivered quarterly to your email box. Sign up today at www.superiorbulklogistics.com/drivingforce October 2013

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4

YOUR BENEFIT

HEALTH, MONEY MANAGEMENT UPDATE By Yarka Sena , Administrator - Human Resources

New Enhancements to Your Short Term Disability Plan! Superior Bulk Logistics is pleased to announce changes to your Short Term Disability plan. While the primary benefit structure remains unchanged, new enhancements include: • •

Benefits payable for employees who are disabled and working part time in a limited capacity; and Medical administration by Met Life for all Short Term Disability claims.

The addition of Met Life’s services to our Short Term Disability program will increase our ability to help employees return to work after a period of disability, and improve the transition from Short Term Disability to Long Term Disability for more significant claims. All claims for benefits, which are 100% Company paid, will be administered through Human Resources. A copy of the new plan document will be provided soon. Please note: Employees will need to complete a claim form and submit it to Met Life in order to receive payment through HR/Payroll. As always, absences should be reported to your Supervisor or to his/her designate. Met Life Supplemental Life Insurance Effective January 1, 2014, Superior Bulk Logistics will offer employees a new supplemental life insurance plan. Currently, the Company provides full time employees with Basic Term Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance coverage in the amount of 1.5 times your base annual earnings, to a maximum of $50,000. During December, you will have the option to purchase Supplemental Term Life Insurance, which complements your AD&D coverage. This benefit also is available to your spouse and children. Train Your Brain: Fit Facts from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Feeling forgetful? Have a brain drain? Here are some tips to keep your brain healthier and lower your risk for illnesses that harm memory and thinking. Adopt a Brain-healthy Diet. Boost your intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and legumes -- with moderate alcohol use. Darkskinned fruits and vegetables provide brain-healthy antioxidants. Salmon and trout offer beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Be Physically Active. Regular exercise maintains the brain’s blood supply and promotes growth of new brain cells. Staying fit also reduces the Continued on page 16 risk for heart attack, stroke and diabetes -- independent risk factors for dementia.

MEDICAL EMERGENCY? FIND THESE FOLKS, FAST

SBL employees in Oak Brook, IL were certified in CPR and First Aid over two days of instruction in July. Left to right, back row: Randy Vaughn, David Krimpenfort, Steve Houston, Gary Watt, Paul Jones Jr., Shari Regnier. Front row: Mary Mears,  Eileen Palermo (Instructor), Millie Jerosimich, Mary Kay Hoffmeister, Donna Davis.

October 2013

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BL SCOOP Congratulations to all drivers at the Pedricktown, NJ terminal for achieving two million accident-free miles! This significant milestone was officially recognized on Saturday, July 27th at the Pedricktown Safety Banquet, organized by Terminal Manager Scott Hourigan. Management, drivers, their spouses and significant others celebrated the achievement over dinner and an awards ceremony in which jackets were given to all drivers. Pedricktown is the second terminal to achieve two million accident-free miles since the Million Mile Award program began a few The Pedricktown, NJ terminal celebrates two million accident-free miles! Twelve of years ago. Springfield, Massachusetts was the the terminal's 21 drivers were joined by (far left, back row) Terminal Manager Scott Hourigan, (far left, front row) Eastern Region VP Johnny Williams, (back row, second first terminal to reach this milestone. from right) Dispatcher Bill Weitzel, and (back row, far right) EHS&S Director Tom ****** Gorman. Congratulations to Samuel Lilly, high school student and son of Cincinnati independent contractor Ray Lilly and his wife Sherri, for completing the Ohio State Highway Patrol Junior Cadet Program in July. Held in Columbus, the program gives young people insight into the challenges faced by law enforcement by having them experience a typical week at the Training Academy. With a primary focus on highway safety and the core values of honesty, professionalism, and performance, the program in many respects complements SBL’s organizational culture. Way to go, Samuel! *****

We’d like to recognize two Lakeland Terminal retirees, and their send-off parties . . . held a year apart! Photos from the first event -- the June 2012 retirement party of longtime employee Robert Boggs -- were recently unearthed, and we (belatedly) applaud the efforts of this well-liked and skilled driver. Boggs joined Grace Transportation in 1989, subsequently working for Superior Carriers upon the merger with Grace in 1995. We greatly appreciate his loyalty and dedicated service to our company.

Lakeland Terminal Manager Jimmy Anderson (right) presents a plaque to retiree Robert Boggs commemorating his 22 years of service. Another longtime driver, Anderson Hogan, retired in June of this year. Hogan started at Grace Transportation in 1982, and like Boggs, remained to work with Superior Carriers with the 1995 merger. We Retiring driver Anderson Hogan (right) receives a plaque thank Hogan for his remarkable 31 years of dedication. It is people like honoring his 31 years with our company. you whose quality services make us a better company. According to Terminal Clerk Judy Hammond, Lakeland drivers work 24/7/365 with a shift change from 9 a.m. to noon, so both retirement parties were planned for that time slot. “Drivers from all shifts wandered in and out eating, talking and laughing,” she commented. “Carry Transit employees who share our building joined in, as did our mechanics, with forty or fifty people coming by to congratulate the retirees and sample our custom-decorated cakes and barbecue. Both retirees were highly respected, excellent drivers, and simply all-around great people, so we were sorry to see them go. We wish them the best in their retirement!”

October 2013

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Lake-loving friends of all kinds joined the fun at the S. Charleston, WV's first Family and Fishing Day on August 10th. According to Terminal Manager Ken McCloud, the forty attendees -- drivers, terminal staff and their families -- had more fun than fish, but everyone enjoyed an afternoon of camaraderie over a fried chicken dinner with all the fixings. **** Driver compliments continue to roll in! During one week in August we received three: a phone call from a Pennsylvania customer thanking Karns City, PA driver Jeff Rainey for a job well done . . . a grateful service rep from INVISTA whose transloading customer was pleased with the professionalism of High Point, NC terminal drivers David Evans and Jimmy Voigt . . . and a call from a motorist commending Cincinnati, OH independent contractor Greg Bendgen for driving the speed limit and signaling properly. According to Terminal Manager Dan Caylor, Bendgen has been with Superior Carriers since 1995 and sets a great example for safe driving habits. We’d also like to commend Kingsport, TN driver Danny Willis for professionally handling an emergency delivery for a customer in Winchester, VA . . . as well as St. Gabriel, LA driver Glenn Mobley for safe driving within a construction zone, as reported by an alert motorist in September. This quarter’s creative problem-solving award goes to Pasadena, TX driver Eric Foy, who came up with an innovative solution for meeting a multiple-trailer-loading deadline faced by our customer Flomin, Inc. “If it wasn’t for his idea, we wouldn’t have been able to get our tank empty and ready for the scheduled maintenance. We greatly appreciate having a dedicated driver who not only does his job but goes above and beyond to help us out,” said Flomin’s Charlotte Simmons. Nice job, Eric! **** Director of Logistics Operations David Niven introduces to our Superior family the newest member of his team in Oak Brook, dispatcher Brad Voltz. “Brad has seven years’ experience working in a transportation reload system, and once Brad learns our system, he will be assigned primarily to the Southwest Region,” Niven stated. “Please join me in welcoming Brad to our Superior team!” ***** “We are pleased to announce Larry Bezet as our newest dispatcher at the St. Gabriel, LA Terminal,” stated Tonya Babin, Terminal Manager. “Larry was with Superior at the Pasadena terminal as dispatcher, operations manager, and terminal manager from January 2004 until March 2010, when for personal reasons he moved back home to Baton Rouge, LA. We are extremely blessed to have Larry back with us. His knowledge of Superior's policies and procedures ideally qualifies him to fill this position. Please join me in welcoming Larry back to Superior!”

Dispatcher Brad Voltz, Logistics Operations

**** Congratulations to two seasoned professionals who were recently promoted at Oak Brook headquarters! Former Payroll Supervisor Jennifer Marin is “very excited” about her new position as Payroll Manager. “I am always looking to learn new skills and to increase my knowledge of the business cycle,” Marin stated. “Today’s technology is evolving quickly and continual process improvement is critical. As a company on the move, Superior Bulk Logistics gives considerable thought to whether business functions can be updated and improved. My new position is a great opportunity to bring new ideas to the process.” Millie Jerosimich, formerly Accounts Payable Supervisor, is SBL’s new Accounts Payable Manager. She commented: “I’ve been with Superior Bulk Logistics for eighteen years. It is a very stable company,  always looking for improvement whether it be with customers, drivers, or office personnel. As Accounts Payable Manager I’ll have even greater opportunity to grow and challenge myself as well as increase productivity.”

St. Gabriel, LA Dispatcher Larry Bezet

****** Director of Maintenance & Tank Cleaning Ken Shafer welcomes Noelle Viola to the Superior Bulk Logistics family as our new Transportation Warranty Manager at corporate headquarters in Oak Brook, IL. “Noelle most recently served as Service Advisor at a large Freightliner dealership in the Chicago area; prior to that she was Fleet Manager for a local trucking company. We are excited to have Noelle in this role.  Please join me in welcoming her to Superior!”

October 2013

Transportation Warranty Manager Noelle Viola

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FIRST THREE-TERMINAL CHICAGOLAND RODEO A SUCCESS By Jim Carl, Terminal Manager for Markham and Kankakee, IL, and Westville, IN

For years, Superior Carriers has supported truck rodeos that test driver skills and bring families and terminal staff together for fun and fellowship. In early 2013, we decided to hold a Chicago area rodeo that would for the first time involve all three Chicagoland terminals: Markham and Kankakee, IL, and Westville, IN. We had never before taken on this challenge due to the staggering amount of room required for attendees, barbecuing, picnic and games, vendor demos, and parking of more than 100 pieces of equipment. Fortunately, Superior provided the funds to expand the Markham Terminal yard, and we were off and running. In a great show of teamwork, Markham Terminal Clerk Stacey Young and Shop Foreman Tony Anderson, Kankakee Terminal Clerk Kristy Kirchner and Shop Foreman Mike Alberts, Westville Terminal Operations Supervisor Rob Hille, and VP-National Accounts Mike Kulaga approached customers and vendors for donations of food as well as prizes for the driving competition. VP-Training and Development Jack McPeek and Director-Training and Development Robert Shivar came to Chicago to meet with our people and set up the rodeo competition . Finally July 20th arrived, and it all came together beautifully! Our rodeo course was perfectly set up, with state-of-the-art tractors and trailers provided for drivers to use in the competition. We also held a motorcycle show, with prizes for the best-looking cycles. Kids enjoyed a jump tent and basketball shooting, along with ice cream and candy. We served a smoked hog with all the trimmings to more than 120 people -- and somehow 100% of the food and drinks were consumed. We wrapped it up with a children's tricycle race, which just put everyone over the top. Wouldn't you know that at our first competition, our two top drivers tied on the pre-trip, and testing and driving scores? The winner was decided by a timed finish (shortest time on the driving course.) Taking first place honors was Markham driver Kevin Head-to-head tractors pulled up for display at the conclusion of the Holladay. Second place went to Markham driver David Whelpley, with third place to Markham driver Ricardo Weir. rodeo competition. Winner of the motorcycle show was Markham driver David Fay, with VP-Administration Randy Vaughn capturing second place. Third place winner was Markham independent contractor Lowell Murphy, who trailered his cycles all the way from Iowa to participate in the event! A special “thank you” to those who generously donated gifts, including customers BASF and Stepan; vendors City International, Sharlen Electric, B & R Repair, Hart Industries, Polar, Fleet Pride, Chicago Mack, and Dedicated Tank Cleaning Services; and VP Central Region Paul Foltz, who made sure we received lots of Superior merchandise. Superior Carriers President Brian Nowak, who attended the rodeo, commented: “Congratulations on a successful, well-managed Motorcycle show winner David Fay (left) with Joe Dunlap, both event -- from the great prizes to the food and games to the Markham drivers. spotless facility! Thanks to the many people involved in this highly coordinated effort. As usual, the real winners were our drivers, mechanics, tank cleaners, office personnel and their families. While attendance was high, we had fewer competitors than hoped for . . . but that is typical for what other locations experience their first year, as folks have a natural tendency to want to scope things out before actually competing. We look forward to an even bigger team of competitors next year. GREAT JOB BY ALL!”

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COMPETITION, CAMARADERIE AT KARNS CITY TRUCK RODEO

Karns City, PA rodeo winners, left to right: second place, Kingsport driver Richard Smith; first place, IC Jim Shilling with Terminal Manager Wendell Campbell; third place, Karns City driver trainer Steve Wilson It was only the second truck rodeo held by the Karns City, PA terminal, but their sizable turnout on August 17th testified to the solid relationships between employees and their families, customers, vendors, and management. “Rodeos are a great way to gather with our people and have a good time and show our appreciation,” commented Terminal Manager Wendell Campbell. On hand for the festivities were Superior Carriers President Brian Nowak, VPAdministration Randy Vaughn, VP-Finance Tim McCann, EHS&S Supervisor Rich Wagner, VP-Training & Development Jack McPeek, Director-Training & Development Robert Shivar, and John Fry from Branham Corporation. After the competition, attendees were treated to lunch, a hot wheels kiddie race, the presentation of prizes, and a gift raffle. Many local companies generously donated gifts, including Calumet Penreco, Sonneborn, Allied Rubber & Rigging, Keystone Springs, Hunter’s Truck Sales, Qualawash, and Klein Tools. Among the 17 competitors were drivers from Karns City, Markham, IL and Kingsport, TN, as well as new retirees Terry Shirey and James Sproul. Jim Shilling, an independent contractor from Karns City, captured first place and won a hunting rifle. Kingsport driver Richard Smith took second and became the owner of a new 42” flat screen TV. Karns City Driver Trainer Steve Wilson received $200 in gift cards as third place winner. Nowak commented: “Superior Bulk Logistics is all about supporting family, and these rodeos reflect our organizational culture. Professionally the Karns City rodeo was a huge success, and Wendell’s positive leadership shone through Karns City Rodeo attendee Michael Nowak, son clearly. We all had a great time.” of Superior Carriers President Brian Nowak, in firefighting protective equipment. "It was really heavy, even the hat!" he said.

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FAMILY DAY UNITES OLD AND NEW FRIENDS

On Saturday, September 7, the sunny parking lot at corporate headquarters in Oak Brook, IL was filled with the chatter of old and new friends, husbands and wives, teenagers and tots. To all who attended SBL’s second annual Family Day, it was a powerful reminder of who we really work hard for . . . our all-important families and friends. The newly purchased Superior Carriers Macks and Carry Transit Kenworths made their debut, surrounded by festive tents, fire trucks, tables laden with Southern barbecue, and even a 1949 ice cream truck. Generous vendors freely showered attendees with a wide range of gifts, from flat screen TVs to baseball caps, so just about everyone left with a prize. VP-Training and Development Jack McPeek, and Director-Training and Development Robert Shivar were on hand from South Carolina, lending their usual good cheer and manning a teaching display, including the always-popular mini tanker. Especially heartwarming was the appearance of longtime friends and retirees, including Oak Brook veterans and former VP-Administration Bill Lavery, former VPMarketing Craig Johnson, former Superior Carriers President Bill O’Donnell, and former CEO and current Chairman of the Board Dick Lewis. “From the kids’ race to the meeting of new employees to the reunion of retirees and their spouses, the family atmosphere generated by this event was very motivational,” McPeek commented. “It’s great to be part of a company that cares about its people the Continued on page 15 way SBL does.”

Top left moving clockwise: CEO Len Fletcher with wife Beverly, and Carry’s VPOperations Bill Kennedy; Pricing Manager Monika Fitt , Credit & Collections Manager Joe Starus, and Accounts Payable Manager Millie Jerosimich; NTTC’s Fritz Mead, VP Government Affairs & Member Services with VP-Administration Randy Vaughn; Former VP-Marketing Craig Johnson and former Superior Carriers President Bill O’Donnell

Local Oak Brook firemen pose with corporate staff.

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FAMILY DAY Continued from page 14

Superior Carriers President Brian Nowak, who inaugurated the event in 2012, thanked VP- Administration Randy Vaughn, EHS&S Administrative Assistant Dorothy Miljkovic, HR Administrator Yarka Sena, along with other members of Vaughn’s staff for coordinating all event logistics. Miljkovic stated: “This event turned out to be a huge success....even the weather cooperated!  This year we had the addition of the Big Wheel Kiddie Rodeo, a Met Life Table, a display by the Training & Development Center, and a Good Humor Ice Cream Truck. Everyone learned a little more about Superior Bulk Logistics and got to see our newest equipment.  A great time was had by all!”

Carry Fleet Manager Phil Bonnes (left) with SBL’s DirectorMaintenance and Tank Cleaning Ken Shafer

Marilyn Lewis (wife of former CEO and current Chairman Dick Lewis) in the driver’s seat of one of our new Mack power units

IN MEMORIAM Superior Bulk Logistics extends its deepest sympathy to the family and friends of James “Jim” Syndergaard, age 77, who passed away September 23. Jim worked as an Independent Contractor for Superior Carriers from 1993 until his retirement in 2003. Jim grew up in Iowa and worked on his family farm. He served his country in the Army for 21 years, retiring as Chief Warrant Officer. After moving his family to Butler, TN, he began work as an Independent Contractor. Greer Terminal Manager Phil Henderson said: “Jim was leased to both the Charlotte, NC and Greer, SC terminals during his tenure here. He was well known and well liked throughout the Superior system. Jim was the kind of guy we could always count on for help in any situation. He made many friends in this organization, and will be missed.”

Jim Syndergaard with Nell, his wife of 55 years.

WE WANT YOUR INPUT! Have comments about the Driving Force? Suggestions for improvement? Ideas for articles? Please contact our editor: Gail Jones Hansen [email protected]

Our websites have a NEW look . . . visit them soon! www.superiorbulklogistics.com, www.carrytransit.com and www.superior-carriers.com October 2013

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4 YOUR BENEFIT - Health, Money Continued from page 9

Stay Social. Being connected with others appears to protect people from dementia. Socially active people volunteer their time, take part in sports and cultural activities, and maintain close personal relationships. Keep Mentally Active. Stay curious! Read and write often. Attend lectures and plays. Try your hand at crossword puzzles and other brainstretching games. Be Heart Smart. Having a healthy heart seems to keep the brain healthy, too. Maintain healthy blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as well as a healthy weight, and don’t smoke. Consolidate Your Retirement Savings! Have more than one workplace savings plan account? Consolidate with MassMutual for greater convenience and control. You’ll benefit from: • • • •

Simpler account management – With a single account, you’ll see the big picture when all your investments appear on one statement, and you’ll have just one website to view. More effective investment strategy – Having your money in a single location can make it easier to identify strengths and weaknesses in your portfolio and develop a comprehensive retirement plan that reflects your goals, timing, and risk tolerance. Having more than one account can leave you exposed to duplication of asset classes and weaken your investment strategy. Lower costs – A consolidated account may reduce your fees and maintenance costs. Loan Availability – Although the plan is designed for long-term retirement savings, your plan may allow you to borrow from your account.

MassMutual’s roll-in specialists will help you obtain the right forms, contact your former employers or financial institutions, and confirm completion of fund transfers -- making the entire process quick and easy! Log into your account at www.retiresmart.com or call 1-888-5266905, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET. Reminder to Independent Contractors – 2013 Insurance Benefit Options! In the July issue of the Driving Force, we announced a new benefit association program available to independent contractors, offered through Universal Trucking Benefits Association (UTBA) and Cottingham Butler. Membership provides access to a full package of benefits and perks, with costs deducted from your settlement check. Benefits include: • Medical Insurance Options • Life Insurance & Critical Illness Benefits • Dental & Vision Insurance Plans • CDL Defender – Legal Protection Plan • Disability Insurance If you have not been contacted about this program, and have questions or would like to enroll, please call 855-843-6563.

Now delivered quarterly to your email box. Sign up today at www.superiorbulklogistics.com/drivingforce

Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc. 711 Jorie Boulevard, Suite 101 North Oak Brook, IL 60523 630-573-2555 October 2013

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