The Custom Communicator
Dedicated To The Companies’ Most Valuable Assets, Our Associates.
Hi Readers,
The Custom Companies, Inc.
317 W. Lake Street
Northlake, IL 60164
www.customco.com
Did you Know?
More than 70% of US
4-year olds have used
a computer.
In the next 8 seconds
38 babies will be born.
Of that number, 1 will
be an American, 5 will
be born in India and 4
will be born in China.
The longest one
syllable word is
‘schreeched’.
Camels have 3 eyelids.
A beaver can hold its
breath under water up
to 45 minutes
A Hummingbird weighs
less than a penny.
Inside this issue:
Welcome to our Family
Black, Gold & Green
2
3
Getting to know…
4, 6-7
Dock Operations
5
Getting to know…
8-9
Custom Cares
10
QMS
12
Recipes
13
Holidays
14-15
Coupons
16
June 2008
Did our April issue fool you? We had a lot of fun creating that
edition and hope that all of you enjoyed it, too!
We have added a few new features to the Newsletter such as “HR Reminders”
and a Black, Gold and Green column. We would appreciate hearing your feedback whether you like them. And of course, we continue to want your ideas and
suggestions for improvement.
We have added a few members to our committee, from LAX Daniela Trevino,
Jennifer Rueda and Linda Godinez and from CHI Rick Hinton and Tom Kennedy.
Welcome aboard! So get in touch with the Newsletter and tell us what you
think!
The Newsletter Committee ☺
Global Warming and It’s Impact on Transportation
Global Warming. The phrase itself elicits an emotional reaction in nearly all of us. Many have
come to agree and accept that the climate of the Earth is indeed rapidly changing, and we, as humans, are the cause of this dramatic shift. Others believe that ‘Global Warming’ is a natural cycle
and that we are overreacting to naturally occurring climate changes.
Global warming is caused by the substantial increase in emissions from vehicles, power plants and
industrial processes. These emissions produce Carbon Dioxide (CO2), which is trapped in the
Earth’s atmosphere and thus causes temperatures to increase to unnatural levels. Although the
evidence to support Global Warming is overwhelming, and has been romanticized recently by
numerous individuals, notably former Vice President Al Gore, some still doubt the undeniable fact
that Global Warming is real. Some point to the recent winter in Chicago that we are just now
emerging from as a sign that Global Warming is not occurring. In fact, dramatic climate shift
from very hot summers to very cold winters is in agreement with the theory of Global Warming.
What does Global Warming mean to The Custom Companies, Inc and other transportation companies? Our current infrastructure and the extensive toll caused by heavy trucks on highways and
roads is only exacerbated by the thermal expansion in the very hot summers and retraction in the
very cold winters which cause roads to deteriorate more rapidly. Not only paved surfaces, but rail
beds and bridges are also affected by these dramatic climate swings. As the worldwide temperature increases, ice caps on both the North and South Pole are melting, causing a rise in the sea
level. What does this mean to us? Much of our coast line is within 4 feet of sea level, and 27% of
major roads, 9% of all rail lines and 72% of the U.S. ports are within this area. 53% of the U.S.
population lives in these coastal areas and the current oil and gas production facilities in the Gulf
Coast are in this danger zone.
Recent worldwide droughts are also an impact of Global Warming. Not only have these droughts
increased the price of food throughout the United States and the World, but also lead to more dramatic storm systems, such as hurricanes. While it may seem at odds that we would see an increase in both droughts and storms, one is actually caused by the other. Because the amount of
annual precipitation is near constant, moisture is raised in the atmosphere by these drought conditions and rather than gentle precipitation which acts to rehydrate the Earth and provide for adequate farming conditions, the precipitation comes down more rapidly and violently in the form of
major storms. These storms cause flooding of our roads, which directly impacts our industry.
Regardless of one’s personal beliefs surrounding Global Warming, it is imperative that we, as
transportation professionals, realize that climate change legislation is on the horizon on the state
and federal level. Universally, we must incorporate this already occurring climate shift in our
short term, mid term and long term planning of our infrastructure, facilities, maintenance, operations and disaster recovery. We all must become
proactive rather than reactive on this issue or
risk losing tens of billions of dollars in projected
recovery costs.
– Matt Foley
The Custom Communicator
Page 2
W E L C O M E TO O U R F A M I L Y !
New Hires
Krzysztof Bajek
Joe Barnacz
Stephen Boehler
Bernie Boudrow
Joann Clawson
John Clawson
Joseph Contraveos
Edward Cruz
Andrew Derhay
Donald Dugan
Jaime Gallardo
Amaury Garcia
Daniel Gatbunton
Juan Gomez
Phil Grace
Glen Grace
Phyllis Guarisco
Jose Hernandez
Armando Hernandez
Dolly Howard
Russell Howard
Camelia Ilinescu
Billy James
Brock Jones
Jeffrey Keller
Brett Krahn
Waldemar Kwasnik
Tom Linstad
Thomas Lyons
As you may have noticed, there have been some new additions to The Custom Companies family.
With the acquisition of Daman Express and DEX Logistics we immediately expand The Custom Companies, Inc. operating network into three new full service centers; Newark, NJ, San Francisco, CA and
Charlotte, NC as well as a new storage facility in Elk Grove Village, IL.
We wish a heartfelt welcome to all the new associates. We hope you enjoy our Newsletter and look
forward to your input, suggestions and feedback!
Sincerely, THE NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE
ELK GROVE VILLAGE, IL
NEWARK, NJ
SAN FRANCISCO, CA
CHARLOTTE, NC
ISO 9001:2000
Hello everyone. I have recently been asked a very good question that I believe has crossed most of your minds at
one point: “Why do companies like us become ISO certified?” Actually there are quite a few different reasons,
depending on who you are asking. Take our customers for instance. By The Custom Companies, Inc. being ISO
9001:2000 certified, it tells them that we will consistently provide a quality service to them with each and every
pickup/delivery. It also tells them that they can have confidence in our service, that we will have less nonconformances or mistakes, and because of this they gain assurances that we will always strive to continuously
improve their satisfaction. Basically the confidence they gain in us being ISO certified helps us partner with them
to satisfy “their” customer base.
From the stand point of The Custom Companies, Inc. and the management team, ISO helps us in reducing errors
and related costs of quality. When non-conformances do happen, management can react by analyzing these issues
and then implementing corrective or preventive actions to eliminate the problem from occurring again. It improves our customer satisfaction ratings, helps reduce certain liabilities, makes us consistent in our service, improves internal communications and increases productivity. ISO helps management realize the objectives and
goals of The Custom Companies, Inc. strategic planning.
For our associates, ISO defines direction. It improves our job performance and our satisfaction with our individual
positions. It also motivates us and allows us to participate in our quality management system. We gain knowledge
and better insight into our internal customers and suppliers and all of their processes. Our confidence in our managers increases and we achieve a stronger sense of pride in each of our jobs and The Custom Companies, Inc.
overall.
For The Custom Companies, Inc. being ISO Certified puts us into an elite status. Of all the ISO Certified Trucking Companies, there are only 4 in Illinois, 4 in California, 70 in the USA and there are only 251 ISO certified
trucking companies in the entire world. Of those 251 trucking companies we are one of them. That tells our customers, our management and our associates that we are committed to provide world class service with every
pickup and delivery.
– Rick Hinton
June 2008
Page 3
New Hires
Black and Gold…&
Green
Gold
Hello. We just wanted to drop a quick line and let you know that The Custom Companies, Inc.
is displaying a new color. GREEN! This section of the newsletter is going to be set aside for
articles, tips and information that directly relate to improving the world’s ecosystem. Sadly
there is not a magic wand to reverse the damages already created in the world from waste and
pollution, but we can all do our part to help make things better for today and for our future
generations. If you have any thoughts or ideas for us to cover, please let us know. We hope
you enjoy this section!
Green Energy Tips
•
Opt-out of junk mail. Contact the companies or organizations that currently send you junk
mail and ask that you be removed from their list. This one tip will save TONS of trash
from going to the landfill every year.
•
Take your own cloth bag to the grocery store and spare the waste of using store-provided
paper or plastic ones.
•
Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when you've got a full load.
•
Each degree you turn down the heat saves 3 percent of heating costs, while each degree
you raise the temperature of your air conditioner saves 3-4 percent of cooling costs. By
changing the temperature by two degrees all year you can save about 2,000 pounds of C02
emissions a year.
•
Use alkaline manganese batteries because they are free of toxic heavy metals. Better yet,
use rechargeable batteries and save some money.
•
Turn off the lights when you aren't using them and reduce your direct lighting energy use
by 45 percent.
•
Keep your tires inflated to improve gas mileage by three percent. Every gallon you save
also saves 20 pounds of C02 emissions.
- Rick Hinton, Carol Guarino and Tom Kennedy
Jim Mandros
Matt Mandros
Josh Marolf
Arthur May
Miguel Mendez
Phillip Michaels
Michael Mihm
Rosendo Mondragon
Lech Mruk
Peter Mudiyappan
Ivan Noyola
Victor Noyola
Grezegorz Przytula
Antonio Quintero
Juan Reyna
Juan Romero
John Santoro
Cesar Serrano
Marilyn Shaffer
William Shaffer
Robert Siewierski
Meghan Smith
Wilmar Solorzano
Barry Spiegel
Ryan Steenrod
Edwin Tello
Nicole Warren
Wayne Warren
Annie White
The Custom Communicator
Page 4
Getting to know you…20 Questions for Armando Ortiz by Bruce Lenau
TCC: What is your full name?
AC: Armando Ortiz
TCC: Where are you from? Where do you live now?
AC: I am a native Californian. I was born in Los Angeles
and have resided here my entire life.
June
Anniversaries
Jeffrey Doney
16
Miguel Escobedo
8
Charles Cecconi
7
Thomas Stafford
6
Madonna Grimaldi
5
Jose Melchor
4
Craig Evans
4
Edmundo Mozas
4
Hamilton Carranza
3
Eddie Rivera
3
Brent Richter
2
Marco Solorio
2
Gregorio Montoya
2
Jason Vasquez
2
Leobardo Gonzalez
2
Lorna Voth
2
Aroldo Velazquez
2
Rachel Bustamante 1
Al Mendoza
1
Frank Folisi
1
Louis Pagan
1
Michael Shipinski
1
Eduardo Altamirano 1
Mathew Candido
1
TCC: What do you do here at Custom?
AC: I am the shop foreman / mechanic of the Carson
facility.
TCC: How long have you worked for The Custom Companies?
AC: Slightly over one year, about 13 - 14 months now.
TCC: How did you get involved with Custom?
AC: I was referred in by one of the equipment vendors who was supplying Custom at the time. I went in for an
interview and was hired shortly afterwards.
TCC: What did you do before working at Custom?
AC: I ran the Maintenance Department for a different trucking company that went out of business.
TCC: What is your favorite food? What about your favorite drink?
AC: My favorite food is steak, prime rib or rib-eye. My favorite drink is an ice cold Budweiser.
TCC: What is the most challenging part of your position?
AC: With trucking it's different every day. I guess just keeping up with the fleet, keeping it running safe.
TCC: Would you say you've been living la vida loca?
AC: I don't even know what that means -I don't speak a word of Spanish.
TCC: Do you have a big family?
AC: No, I just have one son only.
TCC: What is your greatest fear?
AC: I can't say that I have one. I just tend to take each day as it comes. It's easier that way.
TCC: Are you a sports fan? What is your favorite sport?
AC: My favorite sports are drag-racing and hockey. I like the Kings, the home Team; but I also follow and like
Detroit. They have a great team.
TCC: A lot of people depend on you to keep the equipment running. Does the pressure ever get to you?
AC: It can at times. Sometimes you have to do a lot of juggling and decision making when faced with doing repairs instead of doing routine preventive maintenance. Wrong decisions can result in more equipment break
downs, needing repair, and so on.
TCC: A wise man I once knew told me the best advice he could give me was not to stare at the sun, would you say
that's helpful advice?
AC: I don't know, was he blind?
TCC: What's the best advice you could offer me?
AC: Be careful who you let paint your car.
TCC: Did your son follow in your foot-steps?
AC: No, he works for UPS.
TCC: Hobbies, if any?
AC: Collecting Die Cast Classic cars
TCC: What kind of music do you listen to?
AC: Blues
TCC: Best movie ever?
AC: Rear Window
TCC: Dream car?
AC: Tucker (there were only 50 made)
June 2008
Page 5
Routing, unloading, stacking, counting, wrapping, marking, staging, loading, error and damage-free, under time constraints and in all weather
conditions…
Dock Operations are a
vital part of the transportation
process.
The docks in Northlake, IL and Carson,
CA. both operate
around the clock starting at 11 pm Sunday
night and do not shut
down until Saturday
evening.
The Chicago terminal
consists of two wings.
The B-wing is 100,000
square feet, has 100 doors, 3 dock men, 3 forklifts and facilitates warehousing, fulfillment and
distribution. The C-wing is the “live dock” where all the other services we offer our customers are performed. With 165 doors, 25 forklifts and 150,000 square feet, it takes 9 management and administrative associates, 27 dockmen, two spotters and a yard coordinator to keep
it running like a fine clock.
The Los Angeles terminal is also a beehive of activity. With 16 doors, 13 forklifts and 60,000
square feet of platform, the action is around the clock with 5 management and administrative
associates, 16 dockmen and 3 spotters.
With the goal of moving freight proficiently, error and damage free, dock operations keeps
safety in their focus. The Chicago terminal is approaching their 365th day injury freemilestone with the Los Angeles terminal recently eclipsing that mark. These numbers are truly
amazing for this industry.
The commitment
of the dock associates is one of the
reasons the dock
operations are so
successful. Large
groups
working
with each other for
a common goal is
not an easy task,
but everyone at
both locations is
dedicated to do
everything possible
to satisfy the customer. Scott Talanoa, PM Manager at the LAX dock said, “We have our good times and bad one’s but in the
end the customer is the main concern and making the freight move consistently is the other”.
One of the other reasons for the success of the dock operations at both locations is ownerships commitment to ensure the equipment is top notch and state of the art. “The technology
has come a long way since I started. It has really taken Custom to the next level”, said Tim
Hogan, PM Manager at the Chicago dock.
- Eric Pocius, Tom Kennedy, Linda Godinez, Jennifer Rueda and Daniela Trevino
July
Anniversaries
Mary Reich
Grazyna Ujas
George Wiszowaty
Marie Podolak
Dale Majcina
Carol Guarino
Sharon Zych
Bartosz Jasiewicz
Jose Pinto
Herbert Aquino
Lydia Perez
Ivan Velez
Sigfredo Acosta
Jose Gonzalez
Robert Boyle
Raul Gallardo
Alfonso Lopez
Linda Godinez
Susan Hicks
John Laciak
Franklin Ibarra
Christina Paramo
Maribel Baeza
Tina Petrovic
Sidney Chung
Fausto Rodriguez
Robert Barfoot
Christopher Moran
Dubravko Stiplosek
18
18
16
15
12
9
6
6
5
5
4
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
The Custom Communicator
Page 6
Getting to know you…20 Questions for Dave Stricklin by Bruce Lenau
June
Birthdays
Daniel Craig
Miguel Escobedo
Alejandro De Leon
6/1
6/3
6/3
Brent Richter
Maribel Baeza
Mircea Dulgheriu
Jeffrey Howard
Thomas
Jaworowski
Larry Charnot
Angel Casigue
Ramon Ramos
Manuel Nolasco
Jeffrey Doney
Juan Espinoza
Channy Chhat
Thomas Stafford
James Welsh
Mathew Candido
Frank Funari
John Dembowski
John Valente
Luis Macias
Odeta Aleksi
Jimi Yu
Thomas Kolzow
Steven Roden
Michael Smolik
Jeanette Santos
Lorna Voth
Timothy Sienko
George Barney
6/4
6/5
6/6
6/8
6/9
6/9
6/9
6/11
6/11
6/12
6/12
6/13
6/14
6/15
6/17
6/17
6/17
6/18
6/19
6/20
6/20
6/21
6/22
6/23
6/23
6/24
6/27
6/27
TCC: We know the first and last, what’s your full name?
DS: David Dolton Stricklin
TCC: Dolton? How many playground beatings did that one earn you?
DS: None, it’s not like I shared that with everyone before now.
TCC: Well, the cat’s out now Dolton.
TCC: Where are you from? Where do you live now?
DS: I was raised in Des Plaines. I currently live in Streamwood.
TCC: North side guy, huh? I guess that answers my next question but I’ll
ask anyway, Cubs or Sox?
DS: Definitely a Cubs fan. They got out of the chute fast; if they play at
this level consistently we may have something to cheer about come
fall.
TCC: How long have you been with CDN now? What brought you here?
DS: I’ve been here for six years now. I started as a window clerk, spent
some time in the Safety Department, and after a while there I got
promoted to Dispatcher.
TCC: So then you weren’t really rejected by the military like Larry says?
TCC: What’s your favorite thing about working here?
DS: Actually there are two things I really enjoy about this place. First, the people I work
with, we’re a really tight-knit team. Second, the pace of the work, it’s always fastpaced and challenging; it keeps it interesting and makes the day go by fast.
TCC: What are the major changes you’ve seen at CDN since you started?
DS: Expansion, we’re growing the fleet, new markets and services; new equipment,
reefer trailers and lift-gates. The operation is growing more structured with changes
in how it’s managed. We’ve made some big strides in technology for tighter control
of drivers, equipment and freight.
TCC: Where do you see yourself down the road?
DS: I want to continue to learn the business, I see myself in Operations Management
someday. Some place warm and sunny preferably (hint, hint)
TCC: Do you enjoy travel? What’s your favorite destination?
DS: I vacationed in the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic. Any place warm and
sunny, I traveled to and like the Los Angeles area.
TCC: You’re shameless Dolton, but I think they got the message.
TCC: So how long do you intend to remain one of CDN’s most eligible bachelors?
DS: I’ll get married in a minute if Jessica Alba ever returns my calls. I know the
restraining order’s just her way of playing hard to get.
TCC: So being single you must be able to cook for yourself right?
DS: Pretty much a Mac and Cheese guy unless its grilling weather, every guy cooks on a
grill.
TCC: In other words you eat out a lot. What’s your favorite food/restaurant?
DS: I really like Mexican and Italian food. I’d have to say Tuscany is probably my
favorite eatery.
TCC: So what does Dolton enjoy doing when he’s not working? (I feel like I’m talking to
your evil twin every time I say that).
DS: I enjoy playing basketball, softball and shooting pool.
TCC: Describe yourself for me using only three words.
DS: Easy-going, hard-working…
TCC: Okay, math-major…
TCC: What’s your favorite movie(s) of all time?
DS: I would have to say Scarface for gangster movies. Texas Chainsaw Massacre for
gore, and Talladega Nights for comedy.
TCC: If you could be doing anything else right now, what would it be?
DS: Something sports related, not an athlete. Maybe a sports agent, I loved that series on
HBO about the industry. I think it was Arlo?
TCC: If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you like to meet?
DS: I’d love to meet Eddie Vetter of Pearl Jam, or Michael Jordan.
TCC: What’s your favorite vehicle?
DS: I really like Range Rovers.
TCC: What’s your greatest fear?
DS: I saw the movie Open Water, and I have to say it took a lot of the fun out the
Caribbean trips. I’d have to say the ocean’s my greatest fear right now.
TCC: You just hit the lotto, where’s David?
DS: I would probably be buying an Oceanside bar, somewhere warm and sunny most
likely.
TCC: Just can’t let it go, can you?
June 2008
Page 7
Getting to know you…20 Questions for James Ayers by Linda Godinez
TCC: What is your full name?
JA: James Eugene Ayers ll
TCC: Are you originally from LA?
JA: I am from Kennewick, WA
TCC: How long have you been working for The Custom Companies?
JA: 7 months
TCC: What did you do before you joined us?
JA: I worked for a company similar to this one
TCC: Have you always been in this industry?
JA: Yes, since I was 17 yrs old (started young)
TCC: What do you think of your crew?
JA: I love them, they are hard workers
TCC: What do you do in your spare time?
JA: Workout & visit friends
TCC: What is your favorite movie?
JA: Kung Fu Hustle
TCC: What is the favorite food?
JA: Seafood
TCC: What kind of music do you listen to?
JA: Hip Hop
TCC: What is your favorite color and why?
JA: Blue, that is the color of my eyes; it has always worked for me
TCC: What is the last concert you went to?
JA: Drop Kick Murphys
TCC: What kind of problems do you come across in your department?
JA: Communication
TCC: If you can improve one thing in your department what would it be?
JA: Communication
TCC: If you could have a dream job, what would it be?
JA: Movie critic
TCC: If you could have a dream girl who would she be?
JA: Mrs. Ayers
TCC: Do you workout?
JA: Yes, 24 hr fitness and I have a gym in the backyard
TCC: If you could choose another department to work in which one would it be?
JA: Air Freight or Sales
TCC: Do you prefer the beach or mountains?
JA: Mountains
TCC: Do you like being a manager?
JA: Yes
TCC: Are you a true blond?
JA: Yes
July
Birthdays
Jaroslaw Odziemiec
Ken Ericksen
Dianna Ryan
John Laciak
Juan Salazar
Jose Hernandez
Sarah Szymanski
Edith Ron
Lisa Ludwikowski
Phyllis Wardiani
Dominic Salemi
Arturo Magana
Steve Holowka
Rafael Padilla
Pete Dobrzynski
Raquel Diaz
Jose Pinto
Erica Griffith
Matthew Zdych
Lazaro Sanchez
Irene Goetz
Al Mendoza
Julio Renteria
Robert Heinz
Teresa Buechele
William Weber
Hamilton Carranza
Michele Marek
Gerardo Lopez
Victor Gurrola
Stanley Jurasik
Roderick Bulaon
Carla Marron
Jorge Escobar
7/1
7/2
7/2
7/2
7/6
7/8
7/8
7/9
7/10
7/12
7/12
7/13
7/14
7/15
7/16
7/19
7/20
7/20
7/21
7/21
7/22
7/22
7/22
7/23
7/23
7/23
7/27
7/27
7/28
7/28
7/29
7/30
7/30
CUSTOM
ASSOCIATES
IN ACTION
Steve Scuba
LAX Dock
Michelle Marek
Human Resources
Miguel Escobedo
CHI Dock
Edith Ron
CDN Biller
Carlos Bernabe
LAX Dock
The Custom Communicator
Page 8
Getting to know you…25 Questions for Paul Loizon and John Valente by Bruce Lenau
TCC: We know the first and last, what’s the full name?
PL: Paul Pierre Loizon
JV: Giovanni Valente
TCC: Where are you from? Where do you live now?
PL: Born and grew up in beautiful downtown Posen. Currently now living in Channahan.
JV: Born in Cosenza, Italy. Moved to US when I was 2 yrsold, grew up in Melrose Park, IL. Currently now living
in Schaumburg, IL.
TCC: Paul, how long is your commute each day?
PL: About 1 hour inbound, 1 ½ to 2 hours going home.
TCC: Briefly explain what it is that you do here. What services do you provide for our customers?
Both: We provide tailored services for our customers based on their needs or wants. We move everything from
Cartage to LTL, Partials or Full Loads. We deal direct with the customers and with our sales staff; we quote
freight, book it, and sell whatever we don’t move ourselves. There’s nothing that we can’t or won’t do.
TCC: What are some of the major challenges that you face each day?
Both: The challenge we face is a daily one, and it seems simple enough on the surface, getting freight moving on
the same day that our customers call us, without a hitch. It sounds pretty simple; in reality it is a lot more
complicated because we deal with so many variables and people. Did we get all the information needed
from the customer and salesperson? Was it communicated properly to the carrier/driver/dock? Is it tracked
properly? Are exceptions noted and communicated correctly, is there follow up? Whenever something goes
wrong with all these processes that need to be done right, the customer sufferes.
TCC: Obviously there have been some recent changes (acquisition). What effect(s) will this have on your
department/job?
Both: It will be a huge help for us, it will give us more options and resources for moving freight, building consols,
etc. It will give us more control and consistency of service as the additional locations come on-line in our
system.
TCC: Cubs or Sox?
JV: Sox
PL: Cubs
TCC: Bears, basement or penthouse?
PL: Cellar
JV: Maybe second or third floor. Okay sports fans you heard it here first, bet the Vikings to take the Division.
TCC: How long have you been with Custom now? What brought you here initially?
PL: I’ve been with Custom 14 years. Marc Inman hired me after 4 interviews to work on the dock. After a couple
of years Tom Kolzow brought me into Truckload and I’ve been there ever since.
JV: Paulie and I were hired the same month/year; I was interviewed and hired by Larry Charnot. The only difference is that I went from the dock through the offices (CSR, Claims, and Collections) then to Truckload. Fourteen years! How many Italian Beef sandwiches does that equate to?
Both: Too many to count!
TCC: Okay I’ve got to ask Pizza or Beef?
PL: Pizza!
JV: Pizza with beef!
TCC: What’s your favorite food/restaurant?
PL: I’m a Steak and Potatoes guy, Gibson’s is probably my favorite Steakhouse.
JV: Did you have to ask? Italian, probably Venuti’s.
TCC: I’m guessing you guys must be able to cook for yourself right? Who’s the better cook you or the wife? Re
member they will probably read this.
PL: Definitely the wife. To this day I can’t even do laundry. I’m helpless unless it’s on the grill.
JV: No contest, definitely me. It’s in the genes.
TCC: That’s bold talk, but let’s keep your
pants out of this.
TCC: What’s your favorite thing about working here?
Both: The People. Call it atmosphere, camaraderie, call it whatever you want but the people
are special here.
TCC: What are the major changes you’ve seen
at Custom since you started?
PL: I think it’s the growth and expansion I’ve seen since I came on. We weren’t exactly small back then, but
somewhere in the last 14 years we became a corporation.
***CONTINUED ON PAGE 9***
June 2008
Page 9
JV: For me the biggest changes are the technologies. Equipment Tracking, dedicated software (BK system),
online tracking and POD’s. It’s a long way from T-Cards.
TCC: Where do you see us being 10-15 years down the road? What changes or challenges do you see for
the future?
PL: I see us being a major player, a Schneider or JB Hunt sized operation.
JV: I agree. Perry is a sharp businessman; he recognizes opportunity and is always positioned well when it
comes along.
PL: I think continued growth is our big challenge. The smaller companies are finding it harder and harder to
survive in this market. It’s like growth is survival today.
TCC: Do you enjoy travel? What’s your favorite destination?
PL: Florida, when I can get down there.
JV: Myrtle Beach and Vegas. Definitely.
TCC: Is it true you two are god-fathers to the all of the Portillo family’s children?
Both: It’s true, we both have at least one god-child named after us and they don’t change their menu with
out consulting with us first.
TCC: One of the major fast-food chains just introduced a new sandwich called the “Truckload.” What’s on
that bad boy?
PL: Johnny, you take this one.
JV: Sausage, Italian Beef, Provolone, sautéed onions, mushrooms, peppers, Giardinera piled on toasted
garlic bread.
TCC: Call it the “Cardiac” but it sounds delicious.
TCC: So what do you two enjoy doing when you’re not working? (And is there really any time when you
aren’t?).
Both: Spending time with family, playing golf, watching sports events.
TCC: Describe yourself for me using only three words.
JV: Ambitious, caring, outgoing
PL: Passionate, competitive, driven
TCC: What’s your favorite movie(s) of all time?
PL: Forrest Gump, life is like a box of chocolates.
JV: Scarface
TCC: No surprise there John, I would have guessed Reservoir Dogs.
TCC: If you could be doing anything else right now, you had a “do over,” what would it be?
Both: Want to be pro athletes, John – Pro Football. Paul – Pro Baseball (longer shelf life)
TCC: If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you like to meet?
PL: I’d like to share a beer with Harry Caray in the bleachers.
JV: I’d like to go back and meet the ancestors.
TCC: What’s your favorite vehicle?
JV: Something German, fast and expensive.
PL: Not sure, but definitely a convertible.
TCC: Who’s your favorite musician/group?
PL: Country music, favorite artist is Martina McBride
JV: Traditional Italian Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra
TCC: You just hit the lotto, where’s John and Paul now? I’m seeing pitchforks and overalls, Green Acres,
right?
PL: Nope, a Caribbean Island with a coconut full of rum figures in my fantasies.
JV: Travel, I would see the world.
TCC: Who shaped you? Who had the greatest influence on who you are today?
PL: My father, Yves Loizon. We just learned he has stomach cancer. If I could have a wish, it would be to
have him working here with me so we could spend all our time together.
JV: My mother, who showed me what strength and determination means by raising five kids alone after we
lost our father.
CUSTOM
ASSOCIATES
IN ACTION
Cris Piegzak
Air Freight Operations
Frank Funari
AR/Collections Manager
Ruben Caluo
CHI Dock
H.R. CORNER
Just a reminder to all our Associates:
If you are a full-time employee who has completed at least one year of employment and are at least 21 years
of age, you are eligible to participate in the Company’s 401K plan. The Custom Companies, Inc. is making
match contributions which is the following discretionary formula:
$ .40 on the $1.00 up to 6% of your deferred compensation.
Your contributions and Employer Matching Contributions are always 100% vested.
Please contact the Human Resource Department to discuss how you can join.
All hourly employees: Remember, it is the Company Policy not to punch in before 5 minutes of your
scheduled start time.
Thank you for your cooperation.
- Thomas Kennedy
Tony Beltrano
Customer Service Manager
The Custom Communicator
WELCOME
BABIES !
Our congratulations
go out to Teresa and
Mike Beckett on their
first baby! Michael
Richard was born
on April 30th at 10:26
A.M. weighing in at
8 lbs. 4oz., 20 1/2”
long. Teresa, Mike and
little Michael are all
doing well!
On May 14th, Danielle
Perri welcomed her
son Kal-el
Constantine
Fassoa born at 7:38
PM, weighing in at 7
lbs., ,4 oz. 19” long.
Both Mom and Baby
are doing fine!
Page 10
CUSTOM CARES CHARITIES, INC.
Many of you never know who Custom donates to and don’t see the many smiles resulting from
Perry Mandera’s kindness and generosity. We’re starting this new column to let you know who
donations were made to for the past quarter. So, here we go:
The Walter and Connie Payton Foundation
Fox Valley Renegades
The American Cancer Society
Lakeland Little League
St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital
Glenview Blaze Baseball
Misericordia Women’s Auxiliary
Bartlett High School
School District #87
East Leyden High School
Illinois Special Olympics
West Leyden High School
Northlake Baseball
The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation
A note from Nancy Reed about 8 week old Ansley
As most of you know my granddaughter Ansley was born on Jan 10th
with 2 major heart defects. She went through two major open
heart surgeries & survived. She is now 3 months old & doing great!!!
I want to THANK ALL MY CUSTOM FAMILY for their prayers
& support!!!! Ansley is a miracle & would not be here without all of
you!!!
Thank you again from the bottom of my heart!!!
SOMETHING TO DO THIS SUMMER FOR FREE!!!
Free Admission Days in Los Angeles*
Free Admission Days in Chicago*
Bowers Museum
California Science Center
Craft & Folk Art Museum
Fowler Museum
George C Page Museum
Getty Center
Hunting Library, Art Collection & Botanical Garden
Japanese American National Museum
LA County Arboretum & Botanic Garden
LA County Museum of Art
2nd & 4th Tuesday of every month
Everyday
1st Wednesday of every month
Every Thursday
1st Tuesday of every month
Every Day
ABA Museum of Law
Adler Planetarium
Chicago Botanic Garden
Chicago Childrens Museum
Chicago Cultural Center
Chicago Historical Society
Everyday
June 15 - June 20
Everyday
1st Monday of every month and
Everyday
Every Monday
1st Thursday of every month
Clarke / Glessner House Museum
Every Wednesday
Thursdays from 5pm-8pm
3rd Thursday of every month
2nd Tuesday of every month
Every Sunday
June 9 and July 14
Everyday
Museum of American West
Thursdays from 4pm-8pm
Museum of Contemporary Art
Museum of TV and Radio
Museum of Neon Art
Natural History Museum of LA County
Norton Simon Museum
Pacific Asia Museum
Raymond M Alf Museum of Paleontology
Skirball Cultural Center
UCLA Hammer Museum
Thursdays from 5pm-8pm
Everyday
Thursdays from 5pm-8pm
Every Tuesday
1st Friday of every month
4th Friday of every month
Every Wednesday
Thursday from 12-9pm
Every Thursday
DuSable Museum
Field Museum
Garfield Park Conservatory
International Museum of SurgicalScience
Lincoln Park Zoo
Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum
Museum of Broadcast Communications
Museum of Contemporary Art
Museum of Contemporary Photography
Museum of Science & Industry
Navy Pier
Oriental Institute
Peace Museum
Shedd Aquarium
Smith Museum of Stained Art
Spertus Muesum
Swedish American Museum
Terra Museum of American Art
* CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION PRIOR TO YOUR VISIT.
Every Tuesday
Everyday
Everyday
Everyday
Every Tuesday
Everyday
June 17 - June 22
Everyday
Everyday
Everyday
June 15 - June 22
Everyday
Tue 10am-12pm & Thurs 3pm-7pm
2nd Tuesday of every month
Everyday
June 2008
Page 11
TIPS ON PUMPING GAS AND GETTING THE MOST FOR YOUR MONEY
Recently I was asked why our maintenance department receives fuel drops for our local tractors and straight jobs in the early
morning and why we refuel our equipment in the late hours of the night and early morning instead of the afternoon and evening. If
you’re interested in my research and getting the most for your money then you should read on.
Only fill up your car or truck in the early morning when the ground temperature is still cold.
All service stations have their storage tanks buried below ground and the colder the ground
the more dense the gasoline. When it gets warmer fuel expands, so if buying in the afternoon
or in the evening, a gallon is actually really less than a gallon. In the petroleum business, the
specific gravity and the temperature of the fuel play an important role. A 1-degree rise in
temperature is a big deal for this business. And the service stations do not have temperature compensation at the pumps.
January 2008
MVP Winners
Dock Associate
When you're filling up do not squeeze the trigger of the nozzle to a fast mode. If you look you will see that the trigger has three
stages: low, middle, and high. Use slow mode when pumping, thereby minimizing the vapors that are created while you are pumping. All hoses at the pump have a vapor return. If you are pumping on the high rate, some other liquid that goes to your tank becomes vapor. Those vapors are being sucked up and back into the underground storage tank so you are getting less fuel for your
money.
One of the most important tips is to fill up when your gas tank is HALF FULL or HALF EMPTY. The reason for this is, the more gas
you have in your tank the less air occupying its empty space. Gasoline evaporates faster than you can imagine. Gasoline storage
tanks have an internal floating roof. This roof serves as zero clearance between the gas and the atmosphere, so it minimizes the
evaporation. Unlike service stations, every tanker load is temperature compensated so that every gallon is actually the exact
amount.
Another reminder, if there is a fuel tanker pumping into the storage tanks when you stop to buy fuel, DO NOT fill up - most likely
the gasoline is being stirred up as the gas is being delivered, and you might pick up some of the dirt that normally settles on the
bottom. This creates clogged fuel filters and injectors reducing MPG and increasing maintenance costs on your vehicle. I hope
this will get you the best value for your money.
– Rocky Caylor
Ken Schadeck
Office Associate
**** S P A M ******** S P A M ******** S P A M ******** S P A M ****
The word “Spam” as applied to E-Mail means Unsolicited Bulk E-Mail (UBE). Unsolicited means that the Recipient has not granted verifiable permission for the message to be sent. Bulk E-Mail means that the message is
sent as part of a larger collection of messages, all having substantively identical content. A message is Spam
only if it is both Unsolicited and Bulk. Why? Simple because Unsolicited E-Mail is normal E-mail by itself,
such as first contact enquiries, job inquiries, sales enquiries are just some examples of unsolicited E-mail that is
not considered Spam. Bulk E-mail is normal E-Mail as well, subscriber newsletters, customer communications,
discussion lists.
From a technical point of view an E-Mail is “spam” if the recipient’s personal identity and content are irrelevant
because the message is equally applicable to many other potential recipients; And the recipient has not verifiably granted deliberate, explicit, and still-revocable permission for it to be sent.
Spam is an issue about consent, not content. Whether the UBE message is an advert, a scam, porn, a begging
letter or an offer of a free lunch, the content is irrelevant - if the message was sent unsolicited and in bulk then
the message is spam.
Joel Locklear
Spam is not a sub-set of UBE, it is not "UBE that is also a scam or that doesn't contain an unsubscribe link", all
email sent unsolicited and in bulk is Spam.
This distinction is important because legislators spend inordinate amounts of time attempting to regulate the
content of spam messages, and in doing so come up against free speech issues, without realizing that the spam
issue is solely about the delivery method.
The anti-spam community was caught off guard, not realizing that spammers were trying to redefine the word
"Spam" in order to confuse law makers and legalize Unsolicited Bulk Email. Out-of-the-blue spammers began
touting a new definition, redefining "spam" to mean "that which we do not send". Spams appeared claiming "this
is not spam since we include a way to be removed" or "this is not spam since it is not a scam". The notoriously
pro-spam Direct Marketing Association, whose president Robert Weintzen had stated "We see [Spam] as freedom of commercial speech", were quick to realize they could spin-doctor the word "Spam" to make it not apply
to their members. Hence to everyone's surprise (or not), the DMA stated that "Spam" was "only porn and scams,
sent fraudulently" and all normal spam was magically "not spam".
Various jurisdictions have implemented legislation to control what they call "spam". One particular example is
US S.877 (CAN-SPAM 2004). Each law addresses "spam" in different ways, and as a consequence, often has
different definitions of what they cover, whether they call it "spam" or not.
One important thing to know is that all Internet Service providers worldwide have banned the sending of Unsolicited Bulk E-Mail.
- Steve Lamcyk
Driver Associate
Pete Grau
The Custom Communicator
Great quotes from
great leaders:
Page 12
QMS Quality Counts Quiz Winners
Congratulations to all participants in the QMS Quality Counts contest. Everyone that participated earns at least one QMS Buck and those with perfect scores are put together for
“Failure is simply the oppor- a chance to win five, ten or even twenty QMS Bucks! The winners for April & May are:
tunity to begin again more
intelligently.”
Henry Ford (1863-1947)
April ORD Winners:
May ORD Winners:
Dock
Dock
1st - Victor Gurrola
1st - Elias Sandoval
nd 2 Luis Macias
2nd - Mark Moltoris
rd 3 Stephen Coffey
3rd - Luis Macias
“There are two ways of ex- Drivers
Drivers
erting one’s strength; one is 1st - Jerry Odziemiec
1st - Steve Repka
pushing down, the other is 2nd -Tom Stump
2nd - Gregory Kulasa
rd
pulling up.”
3 - Bob Modes
3rd - Arturo Abasta
Booker T. Washington
Office
Office
(1856-1915)
1st - Phyllis Wardiani
1st - Paul Lozion
nd
2 - Kristin Teml
2nd - Tina Petrovic
rd
3 - Rebecca Barry
3rd - Jayne Pakosta
“Recession is when a
May LAX Winners:
April LAX Winners:
neighbor loses his job. De- Office
Office
pression is when you lose 1st - Jim Welsh
1st - Ivan Aguirre
nd
yours.”
2 - Ron Pearce
2nd - Bobby Heinz
rd
Ronald Reagan
3 - Marc Inman
3rd - Luis Alva
(1911-2004)
Drivers
Drivers
1st - Dale Burt
1st - Jose Pinto
2nd - Angel Rodriguez
2nd - Ignacio Molina
“If a man does his best, what 3rd - Francisco Huerta
3rd - Pedro Valles
else is there?”
Dock
Dock
George S. Patton
1st - Arturo Magana
1st - Arturo Medina
(1885-1945)
2nd - Gabe Mireles
2nd - Ed Altamirano
rd
3 - Carlos Vasquez
3rd - Steven Cruz
Be sure to hang on to your QMS Bucks and accumulate them for prizes in the prize catalog.
“The best thing about the Additional QMS Quality Counts Quizzes are currently scheduled at the beginning of each month.
future is that it comes only
Your QMS Plus Team
one day at a time.”
Abraham Lincoln
A note from the Chairman of Team QMS
(1809-1865)
I would like to take this opportunity to give an update from Team QMS. As you know the committee has run
informational contests and handed out QMS bucks to the participants and winners. The turnout for these contests
“The quality of a person’s has been exciting. To be able to inform in a fun and productive way has been great. I look forward to increased
life is in direct proportion to participation in all the future contests. Team QMS is now ready to take the next step in our evaluation. We will
their commitment to excel- be working closely with Rick Hinton, Our Vice President of Quality Management and Compliance to coordinate
the internal audits for ISO. I look forward to our team working to assist everyone to realize how ISO compliance
lence, regardless of their
can make our jobs easier.
chosen field of endeavor.” It is easy to look at ISO and see it as just documentation. A way to keep the continuity of job reasonability’s in a
Vince Lombardi
way so if there is a change in personnel whoever is taking over the job functions can see how the job needs to be
(1913-1970)
done. Therefore when the job is taken over it is a seamless transition. To look at it in its simplest form will not
be acceptable for what I believe ISO is truly about.
ISO is a way of life, a philosophy, a commitment to excellence. It is what separates us from our competition. By
having a process of continuous improvement our customers can, and do know that they will receive the level of
“A people that values its
privileges above its princi- service that is second to none. We can demonstrate that we have procedures in place that will provide world
class service that they can depend on. Although there is nothing that can guarantee there will never be a breakples soon loses both.”
down in service, through ISO we can demonstrate how we will learn from our mistakes and put plans into place
Dwight Eisenhower
to safeguard against a repeat of any failure of service.
(1890-1969)
Every decision that you need to make should be made with the ISO principles being weighed and analyzed. “Say
what you do and do what you say” ISO guides you into always improving and striving for perfection. By never
being satisfied with the level of quality that you are at, and looking for continuous improvement, you stay hun“We must become the change gry; therefore becoming a better company and a more reliable option for our customers. And when you are the
we want to see in the world.” most reliable option you will receive more business regardless of price. People will always be prepared to pay a
premium for better service.
Mahatma Gandhi
In
conclusion ISO is about pride and commitment, and I am proud to be a part of the Custom team and Team
(1869-1948)
QMS that has a culture that embraces these principles. I would like to thank Team QMS for all the hard work
and commitment of these dedicated individuals.
- Jeffrey M. Guthman
June 2008
Page 13
HUNGRY….TRY OUT THESE RECIPES!
QUICK FIX TEXAS CHEESE TOAST
Makes 4 slices
4 thick (large) slices of whole wheat bread
2 tablespoons reduced fat margarine (with 8 grams of fat per tablespoon)
4 pinches garlic powder
4 pinches cayenne red pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 ounces shredded reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese (about 1/3 cup lightly heaping and firmly packed)
A psych professor at CCNY
told his class about bananas.
He said the expression
"GOING BANANAS"
is from the effects of bananas
on the brain. After reading
this, you'll never look at a
banana in the same way
again.
1. Spread one side of each large bread slice with 1 1/2 teaspoon margarine. Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder (and a pinch of cayenne
pepper if desired) over evenly each margarine-topped bread slice.
2. Add Parmesan and shredded cheddar to a small food processor bowl (if you don’t have one of these, just toss the two cheeses
together in a medium shallow bowl) and “pulse” briefly to create a nice blended cheese mixture. Place in a medium shallow bowl.
3. Gently press the margarine side of each bread slice into the mixture of shredded parmesan and shredded reduced fat cheddar
cheese. You can also sprinkle a fourth of the cheese mixture over the buttered side of each bread slice then gently press it down with
your fingers.
4. Start heating a large nonstick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. When the pan is good and hot, place the slices cheese side
down in the hot pan. After about 60 to 90 seconds, use the spatula to check if the underside of the cheese bread is lightly brown. Then
flip each slice over to lightly brown the unbuttered side of the bread. Serve with soup, salad, entrees or as an appetizer
FLAG FRENCH TOAST
Makes about 8 flags
4 large eggs (higher omega-3 if available)
1/2 cup egg substitute
1 1/2 cups fat free half and half or low fat milk
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg
1 pinch of salt
8 large slices of whole grain or multigrain bread (any type you desire), sliced 3/4-inch to 1-inch thick (day old works best)
Canola cooking spray
Flag Decorations:
Pressurized can of light whipped topping (or use light Cool Whip)
Less sugar raspberry or strawberry jam, at room temperature
Fresh or frozen blueberries
1. Add eggs, egg substitute, fat free half & half or low fat milk, vanilla, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt to mixing bowl and beat until
smooth and blended.
2. Start heating a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Holding one of the slices with your left hand, submerge one of the bread
slices in the egg mixture and let it soak it up for about 10 seconds. Carefully lift the bread slice out (it will feel a lot heavier than it did
going in) while you, using your right hand, generously spray an area (the size of the bread slice) on the hot skillet with canola cooking
spray. Place the bread slice into the pan and repeat the steps with a couple more slices (until the skillet is full). Give the tops of all the
slices a generous coating of cooking spray.
3. Pan Fry the slices until the bottom is golden brown (about 2 minutes) then flip them over to brown the other side (about 2 minutes
more).
4. You will probably have enough egg mixture to make two more batches of French toast (about 9 thick slices).
5. To decorate as flags, add jam (at room temperature) to a pastry bag with whatever tip you desire and create three long stripes on
each slice and two to three short stripes in the upper right hand corner of each slice. Decorate the upper left corner of each slice with a
little light whipping cream in the shape of a square and top with blueberries. Then just create white stripes with some light whipped
cream in between the strips of jam.
Corrections to the April Newsletter
PD Driver Tom Jaworowski has 17 years of service not 11.
Josh’s last name is Grochot not Grochet as shown on Page 11.
Rafael Padilla has 1 year of service not 10.
Tom Boyle is listed as his brother Bob Boyle on Page 4.
On Page 8 Lisa’s last name should be spelled Ludwikowski.
On Page 9 the Dock 1st place winner should be spelled Armando Ramirez.
The following May birthdays were left off of our list:
Grazyna Ujas
Gerald Coleman
Martin Magana
5/2
5/5
5/5
Never, put your banana in the
refrigerator!!!
A banana gives an instant,
sustained and substantial
boost of energy, two bananas
provide enough energy for a
strenuous 90-minute workout.
They can help overcome or
prevent a substantial number
of illnesses and conditions:
Depression
PMS
Anemia
Blood Pressure
Brain Power
Constipation
Heartburn
Morning Sickness
Mosquito bites
Nerves
Overweight
Ulcers
Seasonal Affective Disorder
(SAD)
Smoking &Tobacco
Stress
Strokes
Warts
So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills.
When you compare it to an
apple, it has four times the
protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin
A and iron, and twice the
other vitamins and minerals.
It is also rich in potassium
and is one of the best value
foods around. So maybe it’s
time to change that wellknown phrase so that we say,
"A banana a day keeps the
doctor away!"
The Custom Communicator
June Holidays
June Holidays:
14 - Flag Day
15 - Father’s Day
21 - 1st Day of
Summer
Page 14
FLAG DAY
Betsy Ross Flag
The 13 Star Flag
The Star Spangled Banner
The 1818 20 Star Flag
The 21 Star Flag
The 23 Star Flag
The 24 Star Flag
The 31 Star Flag
The Civil War 35 Star Flag
The 37 Star Flag
The 44 Star Flag
The 45 Star Flag
The 46 Star Flag
The 48 Star Flag
The 49 Star Flag
The 50 Star Flag
June Weeks:
6/1 – 6/7 Headache
Awareness Week
6/7 – 6/15 National
River Cleanup Week
6/9 - 6/15 Men’s
Health Week
6/28 – 7/5 Sobriety
Checkpoint Week
June is also known
as:
Adopt A Shelter Cat
Month
Aphasia Awareness
Month
Dairy Month
Drive Safe Month
Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Month
Iced Tea Month
People Skills Month
Rose Month
Send A Rose Month
Zoo & Aquarium
The Fourth of July was traditionally celebrated as America's birthday, but the idea of an annual day specifically celebrating the Flag is believed to have first originated in 1885. BJ Cigrand, a schoolteacher, arranged
for the pupils in the Fredonia, Wisconsin Public School District 6 to observe June 14 (the 108th anniversary of the official adoption of The Stars and Stripes) as 'Flag Birthday'. In numerous magazines and newspaper articles and public addresses over the following years, Cigrand continued to enthusiastically advocate
the observance of June 14 as 'Flag Birthday', or 'Flag Day' and many other cities across the country began
to join in.
Inspired by these three decades of state and local celebrations, Flag Day - the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777 - was officially established by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30th,
1916. While Flag Day was celebrated in various communities for years after Wilson's proclamation, it was
not until August 3rd, 1949, that President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of
each year as National Flag Day.
- George Smith
My Fathers Day Story
My family lived in Indianapolis from 1966 to 1978 before we came to Chicago. During that
time my father became involved in the Indianapolis 500 as a timer for a race team in the
early 70’s. He actually was one of the first to bring a computer to the track for calculations
of timing and fuel. Anyway, our family became big race fans as a result of his involvement.
My father passed away on February 15th, 1999. At the time of his death, the 4 foot tall Borg
Warner trophy (Indy 500 winner gets) was in Chicago being engraved that February from
the previous May race winner. As it turns out, the hand engraver of the trophy is a friend of
my sister’s. When he heard of the news of my father’s passing, he went above and beyond
and paid a tribute to my dad. All of the engravers over the years who have worked on the
trophy carve their initials on the underside of the trophy as a “I was there” type tribute. Nobody really sees
it, but they know it is there. Well for my father, this friend engraved the following in the bottom of this
very famous trophy. On the bottom it reads:
“William Hinton - Race Fan -- 1934 -1999”
As a race fan I feel there is not a much bigger tribute you can get then to have your name on the bottom of
the most famous trophy in all of auto racing. Last weekend after they ran the 92nd Indy 500 race, the fans
cheered and were excited to see the traditional drinking of the bottle of milk and the handing over of the
Borg Warner trophy to the winner. But since 1999 I view this ceremony with quite a different thought.
Along with the names of Al Unser, Rick Mears, Mario Andretti, Ray Harroun, Bill Vukovich and Helio
Castroneves I know there is another name on that trophy that gets less press, but is just as important to me.
Have a great Father’s Day everyone!
-- Rick Hinton
June 2008
Page
Page15
15
A Brief History of the Signing of the Declaration of Independence
July Holidays
Most Americans are aware that our rebellion from England was caused by “Taxation without Representation”, since the original 13 colonies had no members in either the English House of Lords or
House of Commons. After King George sent troops to enforce the King’s dominion and quell any
rebellion in 1774, the 13 colonies sent representatives to Philadelphia, PA to form the First Continental Congress. However, as unhappy as the colonists were, they were not yet ready to go to war.
By April of the next year, 1775, the soldiers of the King marched to Concord. Paul Revere sounded
the warning “one if by land, two if by sea” and Concord witnessed “the shot heard round the
world.” War, though undeclared, began.
In May, 1775, the colonies again assembled for the Second Continental Congress but vacillated in
inaction for almost a year, trying time and again to reason out their differences with England.
By June, 1776 it was clear that any resolution was hopeless. A committee of the Continental Congress was formed to create a formal declaration of independence, headed by Thomas Jefferson and
consisting of John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Philip Livingston, and Roger Sherman. Jefferson
completed a first draft of the document which was presented to the Congress on June 28, 1776.
July Holiday:
4 - Independence
Day
July Weeks:
7/1 – 7/7 Freedom
of Fear of Speaking
Week
7/13- 7/19 Therapeutic Recreation
Week
After a number of changes were made, a vote on the document was taken in the afternoon of
July 4th, 1776. And now the parts that are not generally known:
Only NINE of the original thirteen colonies voted to accept the amended document. Pennsylvania (which hosted the Congress) and South Carolina rejected the document outright, Delaware was unsure whether a vote was even appropriate under the circumstances, and New York
completely abstained from voting.
As one can see the largest signature, by far, was the first one, that of John Hancock, President of
the Continental Congress who wanted King George to be able to read his name “without his spectacles.”
Copies of the Declaration were distributed the following day, July 5 and the first newspaper to
print it, The Pennsylvania Evening post did so on the day after, July 6. The first public reading of
the document did not occur in Philadelphia’s Independence Square until July 8. It was on this day
that the church bells rang to celebrate the event, one of the loudest, The Province Bell of Pennsylvania would later be renamed The Liberty Bell after an inscription was added to it: “Proclaim
Liberty Throughout All the Land Onto All the Inhabitants Thereof.”
7/19 – 7/27 National Fishing Week
July is also known
as:
Baked Beans Month
Blueberry Month
Fireworks Safety
Month
Hemochromatosis
Screening
Awareness Month
In point of historical fact, all of the required signatures of those voting to accept the document from the nine colonies were not present on the document until mid-August, 1776.
Whether this was an official, effective and binding document on the new nation and its members
on July 4, 1776 is obviously open to debate, never the less, that did not prevent the first celebration
of “Independence Day” on July 4, 1777.
It was not until the early 1800’s that the current traditions of fireworks, parades, and picnics were
established to celebrate our nation’s adopted birthday.
–George Smith
Hot Dog Month
BRUCE’S FAREWELL DINNER
Bruce Lenau is back in CHI.
Before his departure form LAX
he was thrown a Good Bye
Dinner in LAX were he will be
greatly missed.
From left around the table: Jose Melchor,
James Ayers, Donna Robinson, Marc
Inman, Bruce, Mark Schiele, Murray Bannerman, Erica Griffith and Scott Talanoa
Picture taken by Rick Bulaon
If yousee one of
these, DO NOT PULL
Ice Cream Month
IT! We did this once,
Read
anvery
Almanac
it’s
relly
loud!
Month
The
TheCustom
CustomCommunicator
Communicator
Page 16
The Custom Companies, Inc.
317 W. Lake Street
Northlake, IL
60164
Phone: 708-338-8888
Fax: 708-338-9550
E-mail: [email protected]
The Full Service Transportation Company
www.customco.com
CUSTOMER SERVICE, SUPPORT AND CARE
At The Custom Companies, our main objective is to deliver your goods on
time and in perfect condition. We understand the importance of a great
customer/vendor relationship. Our customer service center is just a phone
call away to provide a rate quote, track a shipment, schedule a pickup or
access accurate documentation. In today’s fast paced environment, we
work to provide transportation solutions that fit every economic situation.
Our “Customer First” program ensures that your shipments will be delivered on time, and with the highest degree of care. In order to maintain
these standards, we measure performance levels on every shipment. As a
result, our internal operational systems are constantly improving to provide
better, more accurate service, allowing our transportation specialists to
meet your growing needs.
TRIPMASTER
TRAVEL & TOURS
Newsletter Committee Members
Tony Crespo
Jason Esser
Matt Foley
Linda Godinez
Carol Guarino
Rick Hinton
Thomas Kennedy
Steven Lamczyk
Bruce Lenau
Claudia Molina
Tom Mroz
Eric Pocius
Jennifer Rueda
George Smith
Daniela Trevino
Larry Wolf
Contributions By
Rocky Caylor
Jorge Escobar
Buy a Medium 24oz
Iced Tea made anyway for only $.99
Consumer: Limit one coupon per purchase per
visit. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Shop must retain coupon. No substitutions
allowed. Void if copied or transferred and were
prohibited or restricted by law. Consumer must pay
applicable tax. May not be combined with any
other coupon, discount or promotion. Coupon may
not be reproduced, copied, purchased, traded or
sold. Internet distribution strictly prohibited. Cash
redemption value 1/20 of 1cent. GOOD ONLY
AT: 148 W. NORTH AVE, NORTHLAKE
Receive a
FREE 16oz
ICED TEA
OR
ICED COFFEE
with the purchase of
any PERSONAL PIZZA
or OVEN TOASTED
FLATBREAD SANDWICH
Offer Good Thru 7/31/08
Jeff Guthman
$1.00 OFF Any
Medium or Large
Baskin Robbins
Beverage
Consumer: Limit one coupon per purchase per visit.
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase.
Shop must retain coupon. No substitutions allowed.
Void if copied or transferred and were prohibited or
restricted by law. Consumer must pay applicable
tax. May not be combined with any other coupon,
discount or promotion. Coupon may not be reproduced, copied, purchased, traded or sold. Internet
distribution strictly prohibited. Cash redemption
value 1/20 of 1cent. GOOD AT: 148 W. NORTH
AVE, NORTHLAKE
Consumer: Limit one coupon per purchase per
visit. Coupon must be presented at time of
purchase. Shop must retain coupon. No
substitutions allowed. Void if copied or
transferred and were prohibited or restricted by
law. Consumer must pay applicable tax. May
not be combined with any other coupon,
discount or promotion. Coupon may not be
reproduced, copied, purchased, traded or sold.
Internet distribution strictly prohibited. Cash
redemption value 1/20 of 1cent. GOOD ONLY
AT: 148 W. NORTH AVE, NORTHLAKE
1319 N. 12TH Avenue
Melrose Park, IL 60160
(708) 344-7515 local
(800) 344-7582 toll free
(708) 344-7585 fax
[email protected]
Celebrating 29 years this June.
We are a full service travel agency.
Contact Joe Sarlo for your Corporate/Business
Travel needs including Air, Hotel, Car Rental, Meeting Space or Convention Arrangements.
Contact Marilyn Sarlo for your vacation Travel
Needs. She Specializes in Cruise Vacation Packages
anywhere in the World. Group, Meetings,
Conventions or Family Reunions.
Contact us to received our monthly newsletter for
the latest in the Travel Industry!
Kids Scoop Ice
Cream only
$.99
$1.00 OFF
purchase of 1
dozen donuts.
Consumer: Limit one coupon
per purchase per visit. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Shop must retain
coupon. No substitutions allowed. Void if
copied or transferred and were prohibited or
restricted by law. Consumer must pay applicable
tax. May not be combined with any other
coupon, discount or promotion. Coupon may
not be reproduced, copied, purchased, traded or
sold. Internet distribution strictly prohibited.
Cash redemption value 1/20 of 1cent.GOOD
AT: 148 W. NORTH AVE, NORTHLAKE
Consumer: Limit one coupon per purchase per
visit. Coupon must be presented at time of
purchase. Shop must retain coupon. No substitutions allowed. Void if copied or transferred and
were prohibited or restricted by law. Consumer
must pay applicable tax. May not be combined
with any other coupon, discount or promotion.
Coupon may not be reproduced, copied, purchased, traded or sold. Internet distribution
strictly prohibited.Cash redemption value 1/20 of
1 cent. GOOD AT: 148 W. NORTH AVE,
NORTHLAKE
CHECK BACK NEXT ISSUE.
COMING SOON
“THE SAFETY ZONE”