hm - Aug13 - cover.indd - National Hardwood Lumber Association

AUGUST 2013 

HARDWOOD MATTERS 

THE VOICE OF THE HARDWOOD INDUSTRY 

A FIRST CLASS GUY: 

VETERAN BUSINESSMAN 

CELEBRATES MILESTONE YEAR 

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL HARDWOOD LUMBER ASSOCIATION 

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10 

DEPARTMENTS 

8 Memorial 

12 Legislative Log 

13 Tally Sheet 

14 Rules Corner 

16 Insurance Corner 

READER SERVICES 

4 President’s Message 

6 Executive Director’s 

Message 

9 Inside NHLA 

18 Calendar 

19 Job Board 

IN THIS ISSUE... 

10 A FIRST CLASS GUY: 



CONTENTS 

WWW.NHLA.COM AUGUST 2013 HARDWOOD MATTERS 1

HARDWOOD MATTERS 

THE VOICE OF THE HARDWOOD INDUSTRY 

August 2013 ▪ Issue 137 

National Hardwood Lumber Association 

PO Box 34518 ▪ Memphis, TN 38184-0518 

901-377-1818 ▪ 901-382-6419 (fax) 

info@nhla.com ▪ www.nhla.com 

THE MISSION OF NHLA 

To serve NHLA Members engaged in the commerce of 

North American hardwood lumber by: maintaining order, 

structure and ethics in the changing global hardwood 

marketplace; providing member services unique to the 

hardwood lumber industry; driving collaboration across 

the hardwood industry to promote demand for North 

American hardwood lumber and advocate the interest 

of the hardwood community in public/private policy 

issues; and building positive relationships within the 

global hardwood community. 

The views of contributions do not necessarily reflect the positions of NHLA. All advertisements for Hardwood 

Matters are accepted and published with the understanding that the advertiser and/or advertising agency are 

authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The advertiser and/or advertising agency will 

defend, indemnify and hold any claims or lawsuits for libel violations or right of privacy or publicity, plagiarisms, 

copyright or trademark infringement and any other claims or lawsuits that may arise out of publication of such 

advertisement. NHLA neither endorses nor makes any representation or guarantee as to the quality of goods and 

services advertised in Hardwood Matters. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part 

without written permission is prohibited. 

For advertising inquiries: 

Contact John Hester, Marketing Director at j.hester@nhla.com 

or 901-399-7558. 

ADVERTISER INDEX 

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 

Scott Heidler 

Heidler Hardwood Lumber Co. 

President 

Pem Jenkins 

Turn Bull Lumber Co. 

Vice President 

Dave Redmond 

Highland Hardwood Sales, Inc. 

Past President 2010-2012 

Mark A. Barford, CAE 

Executive Director 

NHLA STAFF 

Mark A. Barford, CAE 


m.barford@nhla.com 

David George 

Creative Director 

d.george@nhla.com 

Renee Hornsby 

Director of Communications/Editor 

r.hornsby@nhla.com 

■ ■ ■ 

Lisa Browne 

Convention Director 

Rich Hascher 

Inspector Training School Instructor 

John Hester 

Marketing Director 

Dana Spessert 

Chief Inspector 

Denise Stewart 

Director of Finance/CAO 

MISSION LEADERS 

Skip Holmes 

Thomas & Proetz Lumber Co. 

Unique Services 

Charlie Netterville 

Fred Netterville Lumber Co. 

Industry Advocacy & Promotion 

Greg Patenaude 

Péladeau Lumber, Inc. 

Membership & Marketing 

Brent Stief 

Huron Forest Products 

Structure 

Gary Swaner 

Swaner Hardwood Co. 

Rules 

COMMITTEE CHAIRS 

Jeff Durst 

Hull Forest Products 

Inspection Services 

Orn Gudmundsson, Jr. 

Northland Corporation 

Finance 

Mark Mah 

Upper Canada Forest Products 

Hardwood Advocacy 

Darwin Murray 

McClain Forest Products 

Continuing Education 

Jim Reader 

Downes & Reader Hardwood Co. 

Membership 

Joe Snyder 

Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc. 

Rules 

Jim Steen 

Pike Lumber Co., Inc. 

Inspector Training School 

Stephanie Van Dystadt 

DV Hardwoods 

Communications & Marketing 

Kim Vollinger 

W. M. Cramer Lumber Co. 

Convention 

16 American Hardwood Industries 

7 Brewco Incorporated 

17 C.S. Industries, LLC 

7 Dunavant Global Logistics Group 

5 Elimbs, LLC 

15 The Jacobs Team 

3 NHLA Annual Convention 

& Exhibition Showcase 

bc NHLA Inspector Training School 

ibc Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual 

Insurance Company 

ifc Pike Lumber Company, Inc. 

9 U•C Coatings Corporation 

14 Wood-Mizer Products, Inc. 

2 AUGUST 2013 HARDWOOD MATTERS WWW.NHLA.COM


PRESIDENT’S 

MESSAGE 

FAMILY, WORKPLACE, AND INDUSTRY 

Most of us will spend more time working, than any other single activity in our lifetimes. This may 

be a troubling thought to many, unless you have worked to develop healthy relationships in your 

home, your workplace, and within our industry. 

We all expect healthy relationships within our households, but as many are aware these do not 

always come easily. Many times we find out just how important it is to be a team within our 

relationships, in order to effectively handle problems that come our way. 

Our workplace can be much more difficult to maintain these much needed healthy relationships, 

especially when competition exists between co-workers. Often, we must step back and look at 

the greater picture; the common good of the company, so we can all benefit. This has been very 

apparent for most companies over the last five years. Every company has its own system for 

solidifying co-worker camaraderie, but all companies understand the importance of it. Again, 

here, the theme of teamwork plays an important role, and you cannot develop a good team 

without trust and friendship. 

When I entered the hardwood industry full time in 1987, I did not know anyone, I did not 

have a customer base, and I certainly did not have any friends within the industry. I am amazed 

how things have changed over the past 26 years. I have come to understand the importance of 

friendships within my industry. 

As I attended different association meetings, I began to develop a network of suppliers and 

customers that would become critical to the future of my business. While I expected these 

association meetings to further my business opportunities, I was unaware of how much they 

would enrich my personal life with the friendships that developed along the way. 

I recently spent a long weekend with five great friends that I would not have if it were not for 

NHLA. We rarely trade lumber with each other, but we all understand the value of trading 

ideas to help each other solve problems within our companies and also within our personal 

lives. Regardless of the sector of the industry we are each in, or the size of our companies, we all 

have similar problems on a daily basis. I will guarantee you that the five of us have all been more 

successful in our businesses because of the ideas we share when we are together. 

As you have opportunities to attend various association gatherings, think about the lost 

opportunities for your business and your personal growth if you do not attend. The 2013 

NHLA Convention & Exhibit Showcase will be held October 2-4 in Fort Worth, Texas at the 

Omni Hotel. This is the premier gathering for the North American hardwood industry, and 

you do not want to miss out on all the business opportunities and potential friendships by not 

attending this event! 

Regardless of the sector 

of the industry we are 

each in, or the size of our 

companies, we all have 

similar problems on a 

daily basis. 

See You There! 

Sincerely, 

Scott Heidler 

Heidler Hardwood Lumber Co. 



EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S 

MESSAGE 

POSITIVE HARDWOOD INDUSTRY NEWS 

INSPIRES STRATEGIC PLANNING 

First, the good news; recent industry reports indicate what most of the hardwood lumber 

industry has experienced first-hand, increased demand and corresponding prices. Markets have 

increased in all segments including housing, furniture, cabinets, exports and industrial use. In 

fact, housing is showing a nearly 30 percent increase and flooring shipments have increased 

more than 20 percent so far this year. Cabinet sales are up more than 15 percent, and exports 

continue to show improvement by more than 5 percent. In the industrial area, the pallet 

industry increased its position as the top consumer of hardwoods, while railway ties and crane 

mats continue steady consumption. Wow! Is this the real recovery 

And now, the bad news; the industry is not prepared to meet the new increases in demand. 

For a variety of reasons, the industry as a whole is not able to “gear up” production. Some of the 

major reasons being log supply, which is so heavily dependent on weather and loggers as well 

as money issues, as banks are still reeling from the big hits of the past five years which makes 

for money lending reluctance, especially to an industry such as ours which is hard to predict. 

Other reasons include labor supply, timber quality and the big one – market uncertainty. 

So now is the time to do some strategic planning. Like all good strategic planning, company 

leaders need to begin by coming to a consensus as to their best guess for the future demand of 

product. Specifically, where will the demand come from, and what product(s) will companies 

need to produce. For example, with the increase in the industrial use of hardwood, would a 

mill be best suited to concentrate on low grade production If the Asian market continues to 

grow, how does a company position itself to benefit from that growing market Where will the 

demand for upper grades shift if the Europeans lag behind the recovery 

Strategic planning is really strategic thinking. NHLA will utilize its biennial (every two year) 

planning session this November to dig down into some of these issues and prepare for those 

same needs and opportunities. How does NHLA keep the Inspection Service Program modern 

What will the Inspector Training School look like in the years ahead and how do we increase 

attendance Is the Annual Convention meeting current but also future needs What changes 

does the Association staff need to make to better serve the members in general All of these 

questions and more will be part of the upcoming NHLA strategic planning efforts. 

Markets have increased 

in all segments including 

housing, furniture, cabinets, 

exports and industrial use. 

The industry and its associations need to prepare to meet the needs of its customers in the most 

efficient and effective manner. I will report back on the developments of the Association and 

I invite you to let us know of your company’s strategic plans so that we may work together to 

realize the continued growth potential ahead. 

Sincerely, 

Mark Barford, CAE, Executive Director 

National Hardwood Lumber Association 

www.nhla.com 


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MEMORIAL 

IN MEMORIAM: ROBERT R. HAGGARD III 

On June 25, 2013, Robert Roy Haggard III (Bob) valiantly departed this life after a brief battle with a brain tumor. 

He was 52 years old. Knowing only a life filled with love, laughter, giving and friendships, Bob passed away knowing 

and even telling his family, “if it’s not all right, it will be all right.” Bob was born on Oct. 15, 1960, in Savannah, 

Tenn., to Betty Jean and Robert Roy Haggard Jr. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Haggard and Ralph 

M. and Betty Jean Hughes. A resident of Waynesboro his entire life, Bob attended Columbia State Community 

College, the University of Tennessee at Martin and graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 

1983. Upon graduating with a Business/Political Science major, Bob joined the Disney Corporation where he was 

known as “Greeter Bob” due to his infectious smile. For approximately one year, Bob enjoyed the excitement of all 

that the Disney properties had to offer before finally joining the staff of Hassell and Hughes Lumber Company in 

Collinwood, Tenn., where he remained loyal to high ideals and business principles until his death. Bob met and 

married the love of his life, Kim Appleton Haggard, on June 29, 1991. Bob was a devoted member and elder at the 

Waynesboro Church of Christ. 

Bob was a member of several organizations through Hassell and Hughes Lumber Company, but he was specifically 

instrumental in managing flooring companies all over the world through NOFMA, National Oak Flooring 

Manufacturing Association. Bob took pride in his community and participated in any and all activities to better 

Wayne County. 

Memorial donations may be made to “The Butterfly Foundation” or the “Here Am I, Send Me” foundation through 

the Waynesboro Church of Christ. Donations for both can be made to P.O. Box 33, Waynesboro, TN 38485. 

IN MEMORIAM: BILLY AKERS MULLICAN 

Billy Akers Mullican, age 93, was born April 7, 1920 and passed away Wednesday, 

May 22, 2013 at his home in Maryville, Tenn. He was preceded in death by his 

parents, William Thomas Mullican and Faye Akers Mullican Dillon; son, Thomas 

Sutton Mullican; and brother, Thomas Mullican. 

He is survived by wife, Dorothy Jones Mullican; son, Bill Akers (Ann Proffitt) 

Mullican; grandchildren, Elizabeth Ann (Ken Lovic) Mullican and Nicholas 

Thomas (Nicole) Mullican; great-grandchildren, Casey Elizabeth Mullican, Riley 

Ann Mullican and Kade Woodfin Lovic. 

Bill Mullican, Sr. was the founder and owner of B.A. Mullican Lumber & 

Manufacturing Company. Bill served as Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers 

Inc. Chairman in 1994-95. He was active in many community activities including 

serving on the boards of First Tennessee Bank, Lipscomb University and Blount 

Memorial Hospital. He was a United States Army Air Forces veteran of WWII. 

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Billy Akers Mullican Television Studio 

of Lipscomb University, One University Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37204. 


INSIDE NHLA 

NHLA WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS 

Active Member with Annual Sales Between $5M and $20M 

■ Dakota Hardwoods | Waco, TX 

Active Member with Annual Sales between $1.5M and $5M 

■ Hanawalt & Son Lumber, LLC | Ionia, IA 

Active Member with Annual Sales less than $1.5M 

■ Knight’s Enterprises | Selmer, TN 

Partner Member 

■ Drewesina.ru | Moscow, Russia 

■ JC International Co., LTD | Shenzhen City, China 

Active Member Branch 

■ Cross Creek | Waynesboro, VA 

Sustaining Member 

■ Cool Cat Apps, Inc. | Tompkinsville, KY 

Associate Member 

■ G&G Steel, Inc. | Russellville, AL 

■ Gold Coast Flooring Supply, Inc. | Hicksville, NY 

THERE’S A LOT 

RIDING ON 

YOUR IMPORTS 

& EXPORTS 

If you know a company that could benefit from membership in NHLA 

please contact John Hester, Marketing Director at 901-399-7558 or 

j.hester@nhla.com. 

Quarter Ending April 2013 

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A FIRST-CLASS GUY 

Editors Note: On June 1, 2013 NHLA member company, Keiver- 

Willard celebrated 60 years of business while Bob Keiver celebrated 

his 80th birthday. The following article recounts the celebration and is 

reprinted with permission from The Daily News of Newburyport. 

The story goes that employees at Keiver-Willard Lumber Corp. were 

planning a “small” anniversary observation to mark the 60 years in 

business for the company. 

But it was also company president Bob Keiver’s birthday – his 80th 

– and close to 250 friends, customers and business associates recently 

showed up to honor the affable executive. 

“I didn’t expect so many people,” said Keiver, a hard-working industry 

veteran who still comes in to work three or four times per week. 

“There were tours of the grounds and talking among old friends. 

We had a great time.” 

Keiver is head of Keiver-Willard, a lumber company that serves retail 

sellers who market high-end wood products. It is a hardwood and 

softwood lumber wholesaler, and manufacturer of mouldings and 

millwork. It has served woodworkers and retailers in the region 

since 1953. 

The company was started by Osmund Keiver, father of Bob. 

The small firm was known as the O.O. Lumber Company when 

it started in Beverly, Mass. in 1953. Osmund Keiver joined forces 

with Emerson “Speed” Willard, and in 1976, the company 

moved to Newburyport, Mass. and expanded its distribution 

and millwork operations. 

The company receives shipments of domestic and imported 

hardwood on a daily basis, and its distribution team has trucks 

making deliveries to customers all over New England. 

“We are environmentally conscious and take product only from 

sawmills that are certified and dedicated to sustainability,” said Patti 

Heintzelman, vice president of operations and Bob’s daughter. “We 

offer quality products from mills that meet all industry standards.” 

Keiver-Willard deals primarily with commercial yards that provide 

high-end products to builders and architects. It does not encourage 

the average homeowner to shop at its sprawling warehouse. 

Like many companies that have lasted a half-century or so, 

Keiver-Willard has had to adapt. 




Supplying lumber for boats used to be a major source of business, 

but in the ’80s many builders converted to fiberglass as the chief 

product in creating vessels. Also, the number of sawmills in New 

England has decreased, and in recent years managers have been 

seeking new sources from as far away as West Virginia. A recession 

that started in 2008 also impacted the company. 

“Business was down and we had to let people go,” said Keiver, 

who said the number of employees went from 70 to about 37. 

“That was one of the worst times I’ve ever had here, because we 

value our employees. 

“We’ve hired some back and we’re up to about 45. Building is 

increasing, but we’re still cautious.” 

Keiver, a native of Swampscott, went to North Carolina State 

University to study forestry. He left to join the military and returned 

to school after the service and graduated from the NHLA Inspector 

Training School in 1955 with the 15th Class. The veteran manager 

studied business at Northeastern University. 

“Bob is a first-class guy and he runs a first-class business,” said Chris 

Costello, a hardwood retailer who recently opened Timberline 

Enterprises LLC. “When we moved to Newburyport, he and his 

team were there to help us get settled and down to business. He’s a 

real asset to our industry.” 

Keiver, who has earned awards and lifetime achievement recognition 

from several national associations relating to wood products and 

lumber yards, indicated he thinks more about the business at hand 

than the prospect of retiring. 

“I enjoy people, and I have found satisfaction in working with those 

in our industry,” Keiver said. “I have believed in providing a good 

product and being fair to employees and to customers. Being fair – 

that is important in any business.” 

Shown above (left to right): Wendell Cramer and Bob Keiver, Patti 

Keiver Heintzelman, and Newburyport Mayor Donna Holaday 

with Bob Keiver. 


LEGISLATIVE 

LOG 

PUTTING FACES ON OUR ISSUES 

By Dana Lee Cole, Executive Director – Hardwood Federation 

“Out of sight, out of mind,” the saying goes. While you can fit the 

sentiment into many contexts, when you’re talking about politics, it 

is a frightening proposition. Frightening, but fairly accurate. Today 

lawmakers are facing so many issues, with such nuanced policy 

questions, that staying top of mind with them is as difficult as it is 

vital for groups like ours. It’s why not a week goes by that we aren’t in 

contact with Members of Congress, but it’s also why the annual Fall 

Fly-in is so important. 

The Fly-in is the opportunity for us to put real faces – constituent 

faces – to the many challenging issues our industry grapples with 

every day – from environmental regulations and green building 

standards to immigration and tax reform and more. Members 

of Congress and their staff do like hearing from the Hardwood 

Federation – we provide them with reliable, accurate, and timely 

information on a host of issues – but when a constituent stops what 

he or she is doing, puts a job and family on hold to come all the way 

to Washington to have their voice heard, that speaks volumes about 

the importance of that issue to that constituent. And it’s hard to 

replicate that with paid advocates. 

Members of Congress tell us time and gain how impressive it is that 

the Federation has such active and passionate members; and they tell 

us time spent with these involved constituents is extremely valuable 

and they view it as extremely helpful and informative. 

“Reading about these issues is one thing,” said one Congressional 

staffer. “Hearing right from a constituent about how [a particular 

piece of] legislation is going to help or hurt his business is 

memorable and worthwhile.” 

Members of Congress and their staff are very candid with Fly-in 

participants and spend time explaining the issues from their point 

of view. It’s a learning experience all around! 

As in years past, the Fly-in will connect industry leaders with key 

lawmakers in Congress, Congressional staff thought leaders, and 

important policymakers from the current Administration. Last year 

we facilitated more than 50 meetings that helped us secure many 

policy wins, from defense of the Lacey Act to important Farm Bill 

components, and many more. Participants make solid connections 

with staff members that can lead to formal or informal advisory 

positions and even invitations to testify before powerful Committees 

on behalf of our industry. 

And that’s one of the most important aspects of the Fly-in. 

Participants are here speaking for their businesses and sharing their 

experiences – but more importantly – they are speaking for the entire 

industry. It takes a special, selfless and dedicated person to make that 

kind of commitment and sacrifice. We know it’s worthwhile – we 

wouldn’t ask you to do it if it wasn’t. So please, clear your calendar 

for October 30-31 and come put your face to our issues during 

another exciting, informative, and essential fall Fly-in. 

You may register for the Fly-In and review the agenda at 

www.hardwoodfederation.com. 

We look forward to seeing you in Washington! 

Executive Director Dana Cole can be contacted at 

dana.cole@hardwoodfederation.com 

or 202-463-2705. 

I also think there’s a lot of value for the HF participants as well. 

Often you hear about something Congress is doing or considering 

and you think to yourself, “Why on Earth are they doing that” The 

meetings surrounding the Fly-in are the perfect time to find out. 


TALLY 

SHEET 

DUNAVANT WELCOMES TWO 

LOGISTICS INDUSTRY VETERANS 

AS ITS NEWEST DIRECTORS 

OF MARKETING & BUSINESS 

DEVELOPMENT. 

Jim Lange brings over 25 years of 

experience in third-party logistics 

and commercial agriculture 

business and operations, most 

recently as a Senior Vice President 

of Logistics at Farm Source 

International. At Dunavant, Jim 

will be responsible for expanding 

all of the company’s logistics and 

supply chain management 

activities throughout the 

Southwestern United States, 

California and the Pacific Northwest with particular focus on the 

growing international demand for agriculture commodities. He will 

be based in Gilbert, Arizona. 

Bethany Coots gained her first 

experience in the industry at Mallory 

Alexander International Logistics. 

Within five years, she had received 

the organization’s coveted Annual “Big- 

Red-Q” Award for Quality Service and 

Operational Excellence. Bethany moved 

to Houston in 2008 and joined the 

warehousing and transportation team 

at Gulf Winds International Inc. She 

later joined The Noble Group in 2010, where she managed the U.S. 

cotton freight for a $94 billion commodity trading company. Bethany 

will be based at Dunavant Trans Gulf’s office in LaPorte, Texas. 

TWO NEW POSITIONS AT 

BANKS HARDWOODS 

Banks Hardwoods is proud 

to announce that Eric Wayne 

is now serving as a Customer 

Service Representative at their 

Menomonie, Wisc. production 

facility. Eric has been a member 

of the Banks Hardwoods team 

since 1999, and has worked 

in a variety of production and 

production management positions 

at the Wisconsin yard. 

Eric grew up in the hardwood industry, having worked at his family’s 

hardwood sawmill and pallet manufacturing plant after graduating from 

Menomonie High School. Just prior to joining Banks Hardwoods, Eric 

graduated from the NHLA Inspector Training School in 1998. 

Eric and his wife Trinity have a son, Peyton, and a daughter, Trysta. He 

is a committed youth football coach in his community, and in his spare 

time he enjoys hunting, riding ATVs, golfing and traveling. 

Banks Hardwoods is pleased to 

announce that Ruben Gonzalez 

is now working in Quality 

Control and Sales at the White 

Pigeon, Mich. production facility. 

Having previously worked 

as an automotive mechanic, 

Ruben has served in a variety 

of rolls since joining the Banks 

team in October of 2003. 

After receiving his hardwood 

inspector certification from the 

NHLA Inspector Training School in 2005, Ruben has primarily graded 

hardwood lumber at the White Pigeon facility. 

Ruben and his wife, Crystal, have three children – Mariana, Ruben, and 

Melony. In addition to taking classes in Communications at Ivy Tech 

during his spare time, Ruben also enjoys spending time with his children, 

listening to music, traveling, and playing Texas Hold ’Em. 

Continued on page 20. 


RULES 

CORNER 

SIDE BEND, IT’S NOT A WORK-OUT MOVE 

By Dana Spessert, NHLA Chief Inspector 

As NHLA Chief Inspector I have been given many opportunities to 

explain some of the more difficult to understand Rules. One of these 

Rules or in this case “Defects” is the ever annoying Side Bend. 

Side Bend is primarily caused by improper sawing practices with boards 

that have off center growth rings which allow a much greater shrinkage 

on one edge as opposed to the other. Another cause of Side Bend is an 

edger that is ripping boards in the middle to create two boards prior to 

drying and both pieces are subject to abnormal shrinkage patterns. 

When inspecting lumber remember, the grades describe a board that is 

to be processed in to another product and it is not intended to be used 

in its entirety. In other words, the NHLA Rules are for raw material 

inspection. Another thing to realize is that in the process of producing 

another product a substantial amount of material can be removed and 

the board may still yield the minimum required for the grade in which 

it was sold or purchased. 

When a board has Side Bend in FAS, F1F or Select and the surface measure is 

less than 6, it is relatively easy to turn the arc of the bow up so that both ends 

of the board are touching a flat surface. Measure up to the widest area between 

the flat surface and the edge of the board, then subtract that number from 

the full width of the board and that will give you the maximum width of a 

straight edge cutting that may be available in that piece. 

While this is a good measurement for narrow boards with small surface 

measures for the full length this does leave a substantial amount of room 

for interpretation in larger surface measures or lower grades where there 

can be multiple cuttings taken. 

Ideally, when faced with a board with Side Bend the inspector would 

take a piece of string and use that to simulate the cutting of the saw and 

then use that information to grade the board, but this approach would 

be much too time consuming as well as impractical in a production 

environment. I would recommend that the inspector use a string to 

test a few boards and get a good understanding of how much Side 

Bend is affecting the grade and use their best judgment in applying the 

knowledge gained. 

One of the most important things to remember when utilizing the 

NHLA grades is that the useable portion of the board is measured to 

establish the grade and not the defects. 

Questions about the NHLA hardwood lumbering grading Rules should 

be directed to Chief Inspector Dana Spessert. He can be reached by 

phone at 901-399-7551 or by email at d.spessert@nhla.com. 

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INSURANCE 

CORNER 

COVERING THE NECESSITIES 

By Kevin Mershimer, Regional Manager for Lumbermen’s Underwriting Alliance (LUA) 

Presenting Sponsor 

of the 2013 NHLA 

Annual Convention 

& Exhibit Showcase 

Welcome to the Insurance Corner! The Insurance Corner will attempt 

to answer questions concerning business insurance related topics and 

how best to handle them. 

The first topic of discussion is sparked by NHLA Vice President, Pem 

Jenkins of Turnbull Lumber who asks the question, “What coverage 

does my business need” 

Unfortunately, every insurance related question usually is returned 

with the same answer, “It depends”. Every business is unique and 

every company is engaged in a variety of activities to generate income 

including: installation, renting warehouse space, hauling goods for 

others, etc. The question is best answered by an insurance agent very 

familiar with your particular operation. However, I can explain the 

standard insurance policies (while not all encompassing) that cover most 

companies and give a general overview of what each one covers. 

Excellence 

in every drop 

Coverage Needed 

1. Property – Property covers loss to buildings and contents of the 

buildings listed on the policy. There are things that are covered such 

as: inventory, buildings and contents and there are perils that they are 

covered for such as: theft, fire, lightning, wind, etc. 

a. Boiler – While a company may not have a boiler, boiler/ 

equipment breakdown coverage may still be desired. With many 

of today’s machines being computer aided, the breakdown of 

HVAC units is costly to repair, especially without insurance 

coverage. This also covers explosion of pressure vessels and 

damage from electrical surges. 

b. Business Income – This coverage provides payment for ongoing 

expenses and any profits the business was making while the 

company was out of business from a covered cause of loss to the 

property. Off-site utilities can also be elected in case of loss of 

power to the property, again from a covered cause of loss. 

c. Stock in Transit – This covers stock on company vehicles while 

being shipped. Usually included in the property program, but 

limits and deductibles vary. 

i. Product that is hauled by one company on behalf of another 

for a fee (example; backhaul) needs to be endorsed to the policy. 

d. EDP – Covers costs associated with computer systems and 

installation. Some policies even cover viruses and server issues 

with a lower deductible than the property deductible. Electronic 

data processing is sometimes a throw-in under the property form, 

but usually carries the property deductible with relatively low limits. 

A separate EDP policy is suggested. 

e. Inland Marine – Coverage for work or materials away from the premises. 

i. Installation Floater: Materials and work performed at the job site. 

ii. Tools Floater: Tools that leave the property 

iii. Mobile Equipment: Forklifts, loaders that leave the property. 

These can also be covered under the business personal 

property, but carry the property deductible. 

2. Casualty coverage – The following coverage refers to damage to 

third parties or employees. 

3. General Liability 

a. Covers the operation from injuries to the general public. For 

example: Slips and falls on the parking lot, log yard, etc. 

b. Covers the business from issues arising from work conducted. 

For example: Cabinets that the company installed fall and 

hurt someone. 

c. Covers the business for injuries caused by a product the business 

manufactured. For example: A defective rocking horse hurts a 

small child. (The business may just be a supplier to the 

manufacturing co.) 

d. A business may need a logging and lumbering endorsement, 

which is often excluded. 


INSURANCE 

CORNER 

4. Business Auto – Is for automobiles used for business purposes and/ 

or registered to the business. 

a. Liability: Covers the business for injuries and damage to other 

people and their property (third party). 

b. Physical damage: Covers damage to company vehicles. 

c. Even if a business doesn’t have company owned autos, coverage 

may still be needed for company employees who run errands for 

the business using their personal auto. 

5. Workers Compensation – Covers injuries and illnesses caused by 

work activities. 

a. If the business is located in a monopolistic (Wyoming, Ohio, 

Washington, North Dakota) state, stop gap is required. 

6. Umbrella – Business auto, general liability and workers 

compensation which come with standard limits are often times too 

low. Additional levels of protection over those limits can be provided 

depending on a company’s activities. 

7. EPLI – Provides protection as well as defense costs associated with 

human resource related lawsuits. For example: Sexual harassment, 

wrongful termination, failure to promote and discrimination. 

8. D&O – Insures corporate directors and officers against claims, 

most often by stockholders and employees alleging financial loss 

arising from mismanagement. Directors and officers have an 

obligation to a company’s shareholders, the company itself and other 

third parties. This obligation is present regardless of whether or not 

the company is publicly traded, privately held or nonprofit. People 

who serve as directors and officers are exposed to personal liability as 

a result of their acts or failure to act with respect to these duties. 

9. Crime – Provides protection from loss due to internal theft. 

a. Several different forms and options are available. Ask your agent 

which options are necessary in your particular situation. 

10. Cyber Liability – Provides protection from lawsuits resulting 

from loss of personal information due to the use of internet based 

sales, specifically if a company collects payment over the internet. 

For example: Someone hacks the network and steals customer’s 

credit card information. 

11. Foreign Liability – Many policies are U.S. based and therefore have 

limited or no international protection. 

a. Workers compensation: Employee gets sick or injured in Brazil 

b. Auto: Rental cars in China 

c. GL: Products sold in foreign country result in a lawsuit. 

12. E&O – Errors and Omissions Insurance protects a company from 

claims if a client holds a company responsible for errors or failure of 

work performance as promised in a contract. 

13. Ocean Cargo – Provides protection to shipments outside of the U.S. 

while on barges. 

14. Pollution – Provides protection from leaks/ spills of many hazardous 

materials, usually specific to a company’s location. 

15. Motor Truck Cargo – Provides coverage to stock being shipped on 

behalf of others for a fee on another company’s trucks. 

16. Warehouse Legal Liability – Warehouse Legal Liability Insurance 

provides protection in the event that negligence on a company’s part 

results in damage to someone else’s property, while in their possession. 

17. Flood/ Earthquake – Excluded on many property policies, but can 

be purchased separately if excluded. 

a. If in a flood zone, coverage is available through FEMA, with 

minimal coverage. 

18. Garage Keepers – Provides protection for goods of others in care, 

custody and control of another company. 

This is not a comprehensive list of policies and coverage, but it does 

cover many of the exposures common to the lumber industry. Consult 

your agent for other coverages and endorsements. 

On behalf of everyone at LUA, we look forward to seeing you in Texas at 

the 2013 NHLA Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase. And please 

mark your schedule and make plans to join us on Thursday, October 3 

at 2pm, when we will host an Open Forum entitled Taking Charge of 

Your Business Insurance Program and Costs: Tips from an Underwriter. 

During the presentation, we will discuss ways to control some of the 

costs associated with insurance, what underwriters look for when touring 

a property and of course time to take questions from the floor. We hope 

you will join us. 

If you have insurance questions, comments on this article or suggestions 

for future topics please contact Kevin Mershimer can by email at 

Kevin.mershimer@ins-lua.com or by phone at 317-848-5206. 

1-877-795-0274 795 (tel) 

603-720-5977 (fax) 

info@csi-llc.com 

c.com 

www.csi-llc.com 

w.c 

BUILDING THE EQUIPMENT 

THAT PRESERVES AND 

TREATS YOUR 

WOOD 

• Hydro-Thermo Treatment 

• Vacuum/Pressure Treatment 

• Creosote Tie and Pole Treatment 

• Low Pressure Treatment with 

Oil & Pigments 

• Ammonia & Smoke Treatment 

• Hydraulic Doors & Rail Bridges 

• Plant Control Systems 


CALENDAR 

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS NHLA 

AHEC International Lumber 

Grading Seminars 

Guadalajara & Mexico City, Mexico 

August 11–22 

Participating: Dana Spessert, 

NHLA Chief Inspector 

LA Hardwood Lumberman’s Club 

Golf Tournament 

Costa Mesa, CA | September 19 

Costa Mesa Country Club 

Participating: Crystal Oldham, 

Executive Director, 

Hardwood Forest Foundation 

VietnamWood 2013 

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 

September 25–28 

Participating: Dana Spessert, 

NHLA Chief Inspector 

2013 NHLA Annual Convention 

& Exhibit Showcase 

Fort Worth, TX | October 2–4 

www.nhlaconvention.com 

INDUSTRY EVENTS 

Timber Expo 

Birmingham, England | September 24–25 

AHMI Fall Meeting & Tours 

The Nemacolin 

Farmington, PA | October 21–23 

In conjunction with Penn-York 

Lumbermen’s Club 

Hardwood Federation Annual Fly-in 

Washington, DC | October 30–31 

Participating: Mark Barford, CAE, 


2013 Trader’s Market 

Las Vegas, NV | October 23–25 

2014 AHMI Annual Meeting 

Boca Raton Resort Club 

Boca Raton, FL | February 26–March 2, 2014 

EDUCATION & TRAINING 

Chinese Inspector Training School 

Summer Program 

Memphis, TN | July 15 – August 15 

NHLA Headquarters 

Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA Instructor 

Contact: Dana Spessert, Chief Inspector 

901-399-7551 | d.spessert@nhla.com 

Doing Business in China 

Memphis, TN | August 7–8 


Instructor: Marco Chan 

Contact: Lisa Browne | 901-399-7567 

l.browne@nhla.com 

Flex Day Lumber Grading Short Course 

New London, WI | August 26–30 

Granite Valley Forest Products 

Instructor: Barry Kibbey, National Inspector 




Memphis, TN | August 26–30 





Inspector Training School – 171 st Class 

Memphis, TN | September 9 – December 13 



Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 

b.miller@nhla.com 

4/5 Day Lumber Grading Short Course 

Elkins, WV | September 9–13 

West Virginia Wood Tech Center 


Contact: Matt Wyatt | 304-637-7500 

matt@wvwoodtech.com 

3-Day Lumber Grading Short Course 

for Walnut 

Dubois, IN | September 10–12 

Southern Indiana Purdue Agricultural Center 

Instructor: Benji Richards, National Inspector 




Indianapolis, IN | September 16–20 

Woodmizer Products, Inc. 


Contact: Denice Helmbrecht | 800-640-4452 

Visit www.nhla.com/calendar for more updates. 


JOB BOARD 

Lumber Inspector 

Allegheny Wood Products located in Marble, Penn. is seeking a lumber 

inspector to grade green lumber coming out of the sawmill. One to two 

years experience is required. Candidates must be willing to start on the 

second shift. Salary is negotiable and includes 401K, vacation and medical 

insurance. To apply fax resume to 814-354-7307 or email to: 

bkapp@alleghenywood.com 


Masco Cabinetry is seeking a lumber inspector to operate lumber sorting 

equipment to grade and sort hardwood lumber on the first shift. 

Masco Cabinetry manufactures three nationally recognized cabinetry brands: 

KraftMaid, Merillat, and Quality Cabinets, and the DeNova countertop 

brand. The Sayre Facility employs 450 people across three shifts. Qualified 

candidates will have three or more years of experience and possess 

hardwood lumber grading certification. Salary is $16 per hour plus 401K and a 

stable work environment. Send resume to sayrejobs@mascocabinetry.com 

Masco Cabinetry 

217 Lamoka Road | P. O. Box 158 

Sayre, PA 18840 

570-882-8565 | 570-888-8480 (fax) 

www.mascocabinetry.com 

Lumber Inspector – Multiple Positions 

Hartzell Hardwoods has openings at its Piqua, Ohio and Kirksville, 

Missouri locations for lumber inspectors. The lumber inspector will inspect 

incoming and outgoing lumber according to NHLA Rules at the assigned 

grading deck. 

Responsibilities and Duties to include: 

1. Reports to Lumber Operations Supervisor and receives written and/ 

or verbal orders/specifications. It is the Lumber Inspector/Trainee’s 

responsibility to maintain the highest standards of grading when 

receiving or shipping lumber. 

2. Climbs stairs onto grading platform. Visually inspects lumber according 

to specie, grade and dimension. Uses NHLA lumber grading Rules to 

inspect lumber while sitting on an automated grading deck. 

3. Lumber Trainee’s will grade on a training deck until they are qualified 

to grade at the accuracy and speed determined by Hartzell standards. 

4. Must be able to operate a grade console and board turner. 

5. May be required to do their own sorting setups before starting 

another run per sorting specifications. (e.g., vendors, kilns, etc). 

6. Corrects any skews and situations that stop the lumber line from 

running. This may require getting off the grading deck and correcting 

the problem within their area. 

7. All inspectors may be required to switch off with another lumber 

inspector. Lumber inspectors are required to work in another assigned 

position when they are not grading lumber. 

8. Grades and tallies lumber at certain work stations to obtain surface 

measure and grade of the boards. Single boards are measured and 

tallied by making a dot on the tally sheet under correct column. 

Reports tallies to Lumber Office. 

9. Determines total board footage by adding and multiplying 

tally columns. 

Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years experience in grading walnut 

lumber along with other hardwoods species is required. NHLA Inspector 

Training School certification is preferred but not mandatory. To apply email: 

careers@hartzell.com 

Hartzell Hardwoods 

1025 S. Roosevelt Avenue | P.O. Box 919 

Piqua, OH 45356-0919 

937-773-7054 | 937-773-6160 (fax) 

www.hartzell.com 


BPM Lumber is seeking a lumber inspector for grading green and/or kiln 

dried lumber. BPM is looking for individuals wanting to work for a dynamic 

company. Experience and salary are negotiable. Perks include an indoor 

grading booth with air conditioning. To apply contact Marty Cornett by 

phone at 606-434-0870 or by email at mcornett@bpmlumber.com or 

contact Matt Begley at mbegley@bpmlumber.com. 

BPM Lumber 

Seely Rd. | London, KY 

606-877-1228 | 606-877-1230 (fax) 

Inside Sales /Customer Service / Veneer Products 

Hartzell Veneer Products has an amazing career opportunity for an 

experienced Inside Sales / Customer Service Representative for its Hillsdale, 

MI facility. The Inside Sales / Customer Service Representative will provide 

direct support to the Sales Managers in the ongoing business development 

efforts with existing and prospective customers. They will provide timely 

and accurate sales quotes while providing the highest level of customer 

service. The Inside Sales / Customer Service Representative will need to 

be able to research, negotiate and interface with customers (by phone and 

email) while adhering to company sales policies, procedures and standards. 

They will also provide a direct customer service support to the organization 

by obtaining, analyzing and verifying the accuracy of all order information, in 

a timely manner. 

This is a long-term career opportunity with a successful and established 

company with an opportunity for career growth. 

Qualified applicants will have 3 or more years of experience in inside sales 

and customer service, three or more years of experience in the veneer 

industry, a High School Diploma or higher education (College degree 

preferred), excellent phone skills and computer knowledge – specifically 

knowledge and abilities with Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook, superior 

interpersonal (oral and written) communication skills, good organizational 

skills and ability to perform under pressure and meet deadlines as well as 

excellent customer service skills. 

Salary is based on experience but the offering is a competitive base salary 

and bonus opportunity with medical, dental and life insurance along with 

retirement plans. 

To apply upload your resume at the following website. 

http://bullhorn.personified.com/client/jobInfoApplicationRespMgmt.action 

EntityID=10009&source=National_Association 

Hartzell Industries Inc. 

Hillsdale, MI 49242 

Current job openings are posted by NHLA member companies at 

www.nhla.com free of charge. All positions are posted for 30 days and 

openings can be renewed if necessary. Questions regarding job postings 

should be directed to Renee Hornsby at r.hornsby@nhla.com. 


TALLY 

SHEET 

THE SALVATION ARMY HONORS U•C COATINGS 

The 2013 Red Shield Luncheon was held May 14 at the Millennium Hotel in Buffalo, NY to honor volunteers, donors and sponsors of The Salvation 

Army’s many outreach programs. Assistance in housing, job training, and many other support services are provided by the Salvation Army. No one is turned 

away and the only qualification is that you have a need. 

U•C Coatings Corporation received the Corporate Citizenship 

Award for its many years of support. Major Thomas V. Applin, area 

coordinator of The Salvation Army, presented the award to UCC 

CEO Norm Murray and his wife Vice-President Thuy Murray. 

In his acceptance speech, Norm Murray recounted the important 

work The Salvation Army does in the community, “We have long 

recognized the Salvation Army as a dedicated and effective provider 

of a wide range of human services for many in our community 

that have no resources and, often, no place to live. Helping these 

people with sustenance, support and education benefits them and 

the wider community”. Mr. Murray remarked, “My parents taught 

me by example, that having talents or success means taking on 

responsibility, to make life better for others.” Eleanor Murray, who 

began the company with her late husband Gerard Murray, was 

in attendance along with President Tom Johel and many family 

members and employees. 

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown was on hand to congratulate all the 

award recipients who included Andy Christie, Partner in Caring 

Award and Roy Nelson, Volunteer of the Year Award. 

FROEDGE MACHINE & SUPPLY 

NAMES CORDER AS DIRECTOR OF 

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT 

Froedge Machine & Supply has announced that Kevin Corder has 

been hired as Director of Business Development. Corder’s main role 

will be to advance Froedge’s sales and marketing program, and his 

experience will also be drawn on in other facets of the business. 

Tom Froedge, Vice President at Froedge Machine & Supply stated, 

“We’re happy to add Kevin to our team. We’re confident that he can 

help us move our business forward, and that our customers will 

appreciate the attention he will give to their needs as well.” 

Corder, based in Portland, Oregon, has more than 30 years of experience 

in sales, service, marketing, and management in the wood processing 

equipment industry, including over 25 years at Wood-Mizer Products. 

He sits on the Board of Directors at the Association of Woodworking & 

Furnishings Suppliers, and chairs the Public Policy Committee. 

INSURERS ILM AND PLM TO JOIN FORCES 

Indiana Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company and Pennsylvania 

Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company announced that they have 

executed agreements to affiliate their respective companies. Once 

effective, the affiliation will result in common management, shared 

services and pooled reinsurance. The headquarters of the newly affiliated 

group will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with significant operations 

to be performed in Indianapolis, Indiana. John F. Wolf, who currently 

serves as President and CEO of Indiana Lumbermens Mutual, will retire 

from that position and become a member of the Board of Directors of 

both companies. John K. Smith, President and CEO of Pennsylvania 

Lumbermens Mutual, will serve as CEO of the integrated organization. 

The affiliation agreements are subject to approval by the applicable 

departments of insurance, a process that management expects will be 

successfully completed by year’s end. Management has consulted with 

the A.M. Best Company, and anticipates that the affiliated group and 

its members will be assigned a Financial Strength Rating of A-. 


“I choose mutual insurance 

because i know we’re 

in this together.” 

Business owners who work with a mutual insurance company have a shared 

purpose, getting the best coverage and protection available. And mutual 

insurance delivers because mutuals serve policyholders, not shareholders. 

Our decisions are always based on what’s best for you and your business. 

Plus local brokers offer customized solutions for all your business insurance 

needs. Find out how mutual insurance can work for you. 

800.752.1895 | www.plmins.com 

Member of the National Association 

of Mutual Insurance Companies 

“Shared purpoSe. Mutual values” TM is a registered trademark of 

the National association of Mutual Insurance Companies. all rights reserved. 

© 2012 National association of Mutual Insurance Companies. 

shAred purpose. mutual values.

The NHLA Inspector Training School 

NOW ENROLLING FOR THE 2013 FALL PROGRAM 

Discover the tradition and future 

of the hardwood industry 

• Hands-On Learning 

• Start and Finish Fast 

• Instructors with Real-World Experience 

• Program Accredited by the ACCSC 

• 100% Job Placement Rate 

* Statistic applies to the 2012 Spring ITS Class 

September 9 – December 13 

NHLA Headquarters | Memphis TN 

Enroll online at www.nhla.com/applynow

hm - Aug13 - cover.indd - National Hardwood Lumber Association

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